The Chandler Unified School District (CUSD), in collaboration with ASU Prep Digital, the City of Chandler, and Arizona State University (ASU), is proud to announce an innovative and multifaceted partnership aimed at enhancing educational experiences and opportunities for students.
In a rapidly evolving world, equipping all students with the tools and skills necessary for success beyond graduation is a top priority for CUSD. The partnership leverages the entrepreneurial community resources of the ASU Chandler Innovation Center (ACIC), a hub for fostering entrepreneurial thinking and innovation, to provide access to quality education and promising opportunities for these young learners, who may not otherwise receive such experiences.
Components of the Partnership:
- Access and Opportunities: The primary objective of this partnership is to break down barriers in underserved communities and ensure that all students have equitable access to high-quality education and promising opportunities.
- ACIC Entrepreneur Space: The ACIC serves as more than just a physical space; it's an ecosystem for innovation. It provides a nurturing environment where students can actively participate in shaping their educational journey while addressing real-world challenges they encounter in their daily lives.
- Curriculum Synergy: CUSD and ASU Prep Digital have collaboratively developed a tailored curriculum that aligns with the unique needs and aspirations of the students. This ensures that education is not only relevant but also impactful.
- ASU's Support: Arizona State University plays a pivotal role in this partnership, committed to creating pathways and expanding access for schools within the district that have students in need of extra support.
This partnership embodies a shared commitment to the educational growth and empowerment of students, preparing them for the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen pathways after graduation, whether it be employment, post-secondary education, military service, or entrepreneurship.
Program Highlights:
- 165 5th-grade students have already participated in this innovative program. The plan is for other grades to take part as well.
- Students engage in Design Thinking, fostering attributes outlined in the CUSD Portrait of a Learner, enhancing their problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
- This partnership represents a collaborative effort between educational organizations, providing unique learning opportunities for students, and emphasizes the importance of community support and involvement in education.
As a testament to the success of this partnership, the K-12 Innovation Alliance awarded Chandler Unified School District the Innovative District Award on October 27. CUSD was recognized during the inaugural K-12 Innovation Alliance Awards ceremony, which was the culminating event of a three-day summit that saw participation from more than 100 global education leaders. During the K-12 Innovation Alliance Summit, participants visited the Innovation Center on October 25, where Frye Elementary School fifth-grade students showcased their work in STEM through Design Thinking. Here is an excerpt from CUSD's Innovative District award nomination:
- The Chandler Unified School District is receiving the 2023 Innovative District Award in recognition of their unwavering dedication to education. Their commitment to professional development has fostered continuous growth, while their embrace of blended learning practices has reshaped education. They have also reimagined educational experiences for students and forged strong community partnerships to create early intersections for college and career pathways, even at the elementary level.
The partnership between the school district, higher education, and the city is an exemplary testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in education.
