Publication Sneak Peek

This segment features content from other AAEA publications. Instructional Leader is a quarterly publication available to subscribing districts. The following excerpt comes from the June 2025 issue.

The Power of Community Partnerships in Education

Contributor: Dr. Missy Walley, Director of Secondary Education, Sheridan School District

In today's educational landscape, partnerships between schools and businesses play a crucial role in shaping the future of students. At Sheridan High School, these partnerships are exemplified through the Kohler Academy, a program dedicated to computer-integrated manufacturing and engineering. This collaboration between Kohler and the school has transformed students’ learning experiences by providing state-of-the-art equipment, industry guidance, and real-world applications.

Central to this partnership’s success is the dedicated leadership of Mr. Mike Carpenter, an engineering teacher whose passion and commitment have made a significant impact on students and the broader school community. His ability to foster strong relationships between students, educators, and industry professionals has elevated the program’s effectiveness. Through regular communication with Kohler representatives, Mr. Carpenter ensures that students receive hands-on instruction from experienced professionals who visit the school to facilitate lessons on the machinery and tools used in modern manufacturing.

Kohler’s commitment to student success extends beyond equipment donations and financial support. The company actively engages with Sheridan High School by sending employees into the classroom to train students as they would their own employees. These industry professionals provide direct instruction on advanced manufacturing techniques, safety protocols, and problem-solving strategies. This real-world training ensures that students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical, hands-on experience that prepares them for careers in engineering and manufacturing. By learning from experts who work in the field daily, students gain invaluable insights into industry standards, workplace expectations, and career pathways.

Beyond technical instruction, Mr. Carpenter understands the importance of fostering a positive school culture. Each morning, he begins the day by sharing a “dad joke” over the intercom, a simple yet powerful way to bring smiles to students and staff alike. His ability to connect with students extends beyond the classroom, as he mentors them in engineering principles, problem-solving, and career readiness.

A hallmark of the Kohler Academy is its ability to prepare students for the workforce. By engaging in the engineering design process and applying real-world solutions, students gain invaluable experience. They also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, work with professional-grade equipment, and participate in internships that provide a pathway to future careers.

The impact of this program extends beyond the classroom, as students take pride in showcasing their skills through various initiatives. They create products to sell in the Yellowjacket Store, demonstrating both technical and entrepreneurial abilities. Their craftsmanship is also highlighted through the faculty gifts they design and produce throughout the school year, fostering a sense of appreciation within the school community. Additionally, students play an active role in school spirit by manufacturing frisbees to distribute at football games, further connecting their learning to the broader student body.

One of the standout collaborations is the joint effort between students and Kohler in designing the float for the Timberfest parade. This project combines creativity, engineering, and teamwork, allowing students to see their ideas come to life in a community-wide event. These accomplishments not only showcase the students’ technical skills but also their ability to work collaboratively and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.

As Mr. Carpenter approaches retirement, he has taken thoughtful steps to ensure a smooth transition for the program. He has worked closely with Mr. Danny Moffett, another retired engineer, to maintain the high standards of instruction and industry collaboration. Their shared commitment to student success ensures that the Kohler Academy will continue to thrive, preparing future generations of engineers and innovators.

The legacy of Mr. Carpenter is one of dedication, humor, and an unwavering belief in the power of education and community partnerships. His efforts have built a bridge between Sheridan High School and Kohler, creating opportunities that will shape students’ futures for years to come.