Innovation in...Community Facilities (Education

Preparing children for their future is one of the most important jobs of a community, and as the future changes and evolves, the ways we teach students must also innovate. Today’s schools have the difficult task of preparing students for a high-tech world that demands strong STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) skills alongside creativity, good citizenship, and collaboration. Meeting this high bar requires innovation on the part of educational institutions and all stakeholders – parents, students, teachers, administrators, and partners in the broader community.

The economy in Manchester continues to diversify from one focused on traditional manufacturing to hightech sectors, health, and professional services. This change presents key opportunities for the school system to learn from others around the country who have partnered with local firms to build curricula and experiential learning opportunities for students. The community is already embracing these steps through Manchester School of Technology High School (MST-HS) and Manchester PROUD.

100%

75%

50%

25%

Hillsborough County

Manchester 0%

No HS Diploma HS Graduate Some College or Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree

Master’s Degree or Higher

MST-HS uses competencybased education providing rigorous academics in combination with career and technical education (CTE) classes. All grading at MST-HS is competency based, meaning students do not receive the traditional A-F grade, but rather are assessed based on their understanding of each competency. “Grades” at MST-HS are done on a 1-4 scale, where students begin at a 1 (not yet proficient) and move towards proficiency throughout the year. Students are able to progress at their own pace, which allows for extra time for students who are struggling with concepts and advanced learning for those who move faster through the material. MST-HS also focuses on project-based and interdisciplinary learning through enrollment in CTE programs. All students at MST-HS have access to Chromebooks during the school day. “Each year, the NH Drinking Water Coalition recognizes National Drinking Water Week by organizing the New Hampshire Drinking Water Festival and State Science Fair. For 27 years, the City of Manchester Water Works Department has participated in the New Hampshire 4th Grade Water Science Fair. This extraordinary event focuses on educating fourth-grade students on the many ways water is being utilized and introduces students to the people that work to protect it.

Major themes include the water cycle, watersheds, groundwater, wildlife, and the human water cycle. Lessons connect with student’s daily lives and explore how they can keep water clean. The online lessons and activities are designed for students in grades 3-5, but with the timeless importance of clean water, students in other grades will also benefit. Students in grades 3-5 are invited to participate in this year’s Water Poetry Contest. This is an excellent opportunity to incorporate the language arts and water science.”

Manchester Proud is a partnership between the citizens of Manchester and the local business community to advocate for improving Manchester City Schools. The group started as “an ad-hoc gathering of local business and education leaders, wanting to better understand Manchester’s public schools and how we might partner with others to create opportunities for their improvement. Today, Manchester Proud has become a community movement, united by our pride in Manchester and our shared commitment to the success of every student, and therefore, our entire community.” (Source: Manchesterproud.org) This organization understands and advocates that there is a direct link between education, quality of life, community health, and a thriving business climate in the City of Manchester.

The mission of FIRST® is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators, by engaging them in exciting mentorbased programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. (Source: FirstInspires)

“To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.” Dean Kamen, Founder