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Tag: education

  • Wonder Workshop Helps Extreme STEAM Science for Kids (ESSK), a Decades-Old Summer Camp, Launch Virtual Summer Camp

    Wonder Workshop Helps Extreme STEAM Science for Kids (ESSK), a Decades-Old Summer Camp, Launch Virtual Summer Camp

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    Parents worldwide can now give their children access to ESSK’s quality summer camps and certified instructors

    Press Release



    updated: Jun 12, 2020

    ​​​Wonder Workshop is announcing a partnership with Extreme STEAM Science for Kids (ESSK) to launch online coding camps for kids ages 6-11, available this summer. ESSK, accredited with the American Camps Association (“ACA”), will host the virtual camps with certified instructors and Dash’s Neighborhood, a virtual robot coding platform from Wonder Workshop, to teach children programming and how to apply these skills to real-world robotics. The virtual camps are designed to provide children learning and engagement for several hours a day with qualified camp instructors. 

    As the school year ends this year, parents are finding themselves at home with their children without access to traditional drop-off summer camps. An independent study published in the Journal of Youth Development demonstrated that camps help children grow in self-confidence, independence, making friends, exploring and learning new activities. Without access to drop-off summer camps, families are turning to virtual camps. However, there is a significant gap in quality summer camps offered virtually with experienced instructors, especially for children ages 6-10.

    ESSK brings the experience from six decades of running camps for kids to a home-based virtual camp curriculum. The camp will be created and hosted by ESSK camp professionals. Each camp session will limit the number of campers working with one instructor to 10. Instructors will track camper engagement in real-time through the Class Connect online tool, and personalize the instruction with breakout sessions to create a fun and memorable summer for campers. Parents can choose half or full-day camp hours, and sign up for one or two-week-long camps.

    “Millions of children have used Dash robots to learn to code, and we’re excited to bring that engaging learning platform to summer camps in partnership with ESSK so that students can continue their learning during the summer,” said Vikas Gupta, co-founder and CEO of Wonder Workshop. 

    Summer camps will begin July 6, and new one-week sessions start every week until August 24. Two-week camp sessions begin July 6, and new sessions start every two weeks until August 17. 

    “Summer camps have been the bedrock of time away from schools for children for decades. We are excited to bring this experience to an online world and look forward to bringing the same quality and engagement to all the kids at home this summer,” said Bob Budah, the founder of ESSK and the CEO of Park Shore Country Day Camp. 

    More information on the camp sessions can be found at https://extremesteamscience.com/essk-v-camp-campers/.

    Wonder Workshop

    Wonder Workshop’s mission is to spark creativity among kids of all ages, inspiring lifelong learning. Wonder Workshop’s Class Connect is the world’s leading educational platform for K-5 that makes learning and teaching coding literacy engaging, easy, and affordable. Class Connect gives teachers a software solution to implement coding literacy with 1-1 student access, and a seamless integration with Dash robots. Wonder Workshop’s platform is used by students to master 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking and Computer Science, in more than 4,000 school districts. Contact: Brisa.ayub@makewonder.com 

    Extreme STEAM Science Kids (ESSK)

    Celebrating nearly 10 years of bringing robotics programs to camp, Extreme STEAM Science Kids is a summer science Steam camp based on Long Island that specializes in providing “campified” on-site and virtual robotics programs to camps. ESSK was founded by Bob Budah, whose family has owned and operated the Park Shore Day Camp in Long Island, NY, for six decades.

    Source: Wonder Workshop

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  • The Power of Student Teams Awarded IPPY 2020 Bronze Medal

    The Power of Student Teams Awarded IPPY 2020 Bronze Medal

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    10,000 Student Research Study Revolutionizes Teaching & Cognitive Learning.

    Press Release



    updated: Jun 12, 2020

    Learning Sciences International (LSI) announced that one of its bestselling titles, The Power of Student Teams: Achieving Social, Emotional, and Cognitive Learning in Every Classroom Through Academic Teaming won a bronze medal from the Independent Publisher Book Awards in the Education Commentary/Theory category.

    The “IPPY” Awards are conducted each year to honor the best independently published books, particularly those described as “progressive, thought-provoking books, the kind that can touch lives, advance careers, and stretch our imaginations.” In 2020, the awards drew nearly 5,000 entries.

    “I’m truly honored to receive this recognition,” says co-author Michael D. Toth. “Thank you to our school and district partners who shared their experiences with academic teaming. I hope we can continue reaching the students who need it the most with this empowering new way of teaching and learning.”

    The Power of Student Teams presents a daily instructional process that integrates social-emotional learning into rigorous academics. Students work in teams, collaborate, and peer coach using tools and structures that take them beyond traditional group work and give them agency over their own learning.

    The book includes scientific research on what makes student teams effective and evidence that academic teaming has increased student achievement, including a groundbreaking 10,000-student research study on a large urban district where achievement gaps closed for African-American students, English Language Learners, and students with special needs.

    “When students have an active role in their learning, they develop more intrinsic motivation and learn more deeply. The neuroscience research supports that idea,” says co-author Dr. David Sousa. “With the school year disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, students will need the skills to drive their own learning now more than ever. Teaming gives them the chance to build those skills.”

    The Power of Student Teams is available for purchase here and can include a live virtual book study.

    Please contact Taylor Barahona (tbarahona@learningsciences.com) with any questions.

    Source: Learning Sciences International

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  • Exceptional Minds Graduates Class of 2020

    Exceptional Minds Graduates Class of 2020

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    “From COVID-19 to Protest 2020, we have faced challenges the likes of which most of us have never seen before.”

    Press Release



    updated: Jun 10, 2020

    ​​​Meet the 2020 graduates of Exceptional Minds. This is no ordinary class and these are not ordinary times, as everyone knows. 

    The Exceptional Minds Class of 2020 are young adults with autism, who, against all odds, graduated Friday from the Exceptional Minds school and will go on to careers in visual effects, animation, motion graphics, and other digital arts fields.

    The graduation was a Zoom event attended by parents and friends, among them notable guest speaker Rob Paulsen, a self-described “blue-collar worker in the dream factory”, best known as the voice of Yakko in Animaniacs and Pinky from Pinky and the Brain. “People will look at Exceptional Minds as pioneers and they will be inspired by it and that inspiration will help them find their own gifts,” he said.

    When COVID-19 hit, Exceptional Minds shut down its school and sent its students home. Overnight, its entire training model – the place where students met, the way instructors taught and socialized and interacted with this special population, the very lifeblood of what Exceptional Minds does and how it does it, right down to funding – was gone.

    And no one was entirely sure if they could replicate it in a remote, virtual environment for a population that was already isolated and challenged in so many other ways. 

    Remote learning carried Exceptional Minds 2020 graduates through the last critical months of their three-year training, something no one had ever tried with the autism population before.

    “From COVID-19 to Protest 2020, we have faced challenges the likes of which most of us have never seen before. But as we are learning, challenges test us in unexpected ways and you all have demonstrated incredible flexibility and resilience in this new remote learning space that will serve you so well as you continue on an amazing journey that has just begun,” said Exceptional Minds Executive Director David Siegel to the class of 12 during Friday’s Zoom graduation.

    Exceptional Minds opened its doors in 2011 as a training school for individuals with autism and, in 2014, added a professional studio to bring in contract work for graduates of its three-year program.

    Source: Exceptional Minds

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  • NUTRISHOP® Launches New Learning Center, Developed in Partnership with FITposium Founder James Patrick

    NUTRISHOP® Launches New Learning Center, Developed in Partnership with FITposium Founder James Patrick

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    Press Release



    updated: May 27, 2020

    NUTRISHOP®, a leading national nutrition, wellness and supplement retail franchise, announced the launch of the new NUTRISHOP® Learning Center, developed in partnership with FITposium® founder and best-selling author James Patrick. Now available online at www.NutrishopUSA.com, the Learning Center was designed to be a hub of relevant and inspiring content created by various fitness professionals and experienced in-house writers, as well as NUTRISHOP® store owners, sponsored athletes and influencers.

    With the Learning Center, NUTRISHOP® has developed yet another resource for its customers to help them in their quest to discover and maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle and, ultimately, achieve the best version of themselves. From fitness lifestyle tips and home workouts to nutrition advice and delicious recipes to inspiring transformation stories and athlete spotlights, the NUTRISHOP® Learning Center serves to promote the motivational message “Knowledge is power.” And, what better way to promote that than to partner with experts in the fitness and nutrition industry?

    “Our mission is to provide unparalleled opportunity for our clients and that is why I am so excited for this partnership with NUTRISHOP®,” says James Patrick, an internationally published photographer, podcast host and entrepreneur coach. “This partnership will connect our amazing audience with a platform where they can share their knowledge and expertise.”

    As an entrepreneur coach, James Patrick has a long history of providing support and guidance to the fitness community through his annual FITposium® conference, which debuted in 2015. Since then, he has added additional products and services, including an intimate Mastermind group which seeks to help first-time entrepreneurs in the industry discover and learn how to grow their brand and business.

    Through the Learning Center partnership, James Patrick, together with NUTRISHOP®, hope to provide exceptional content and valuable information to a wider audience that is interested in learning more about fitness and achieving a healthier lifestyle.

    “Partnering with James Patrick and his clients to provide quality content to our customers is a no-brainer for us,” said Bryon McLendon, CEO and founder of NUTRISHOP®. “We have already published a number of articles from various fitness professionals who are currently enrolled in James’ Mastermind program and they’ve done an excellent job. We look forward to cultivating this partnership further to continue providing a steady flow of helpful tips and expert advice to our customers.”

    Content from the Learning Center will be included in NUTRISHOP® newsletters to its customers as well as via social media. Content will be updated on a regular basis, so visitors are encouraged to check back often.

    Visit the NUTRISHOP® Learning Center today.

    About James Patrick

    ​James Patrick is an award-winning photographer, best-selling author, entrepreneur coach, podcast host and public speaker based in Phoenix, Arizona. He is the founder of FITposium®, an annual conference guiding fitness entrepreneurs to grow their careers. James has received a variety of awards for his work as a photographer, marketer and entrepreneur. Learn more at FITposium.com and JamesPatrick.com.

    About NUTRISHOP®

    Since 2003, NUTRISHOP® has helped countless individuals live a fit, healthy, happy lifestyle. NUTRISHOP® stores offer customers a low-price guarantee on a wide array of cutting-edge dietary supplements along with exceptional, individualized customer service; easy-to-follow meal plans; body composition assessment tools; and sound nutritional guidance. The NUTRISHOP® business model focuses primarily on franchisee-owned and operated stores that provide consumers with the tools required to achieve their health and fitness goals. For more information, visit www.NutrishopUSA.com and follow on Instagram @NutrishopUSA.

    Media Contact
    LaRue Gillespie
    NUTRISHOP®
    PR@NutrishopUSA.com

    Source: NUTRISHOP®

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  • Break Free Worldwide 2020 Championship: Create Your Escape in SOULidarity

    Break Free Worldwide 2020 Championship: Create Your Escape in SOULidarity

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    The World’s First Global LIVE STREAM HIP HOP Dance Competition Promoting Solidarity: Break Free Worldwide 2020 Championship is organizing the first-ever six-day online global breaking competition April 21-26, 2020, with over 500 competitors dancing in solidarity in one-round elimination battles for over $35,000 in cash and prizes

    Press Release



    updated: Apr 7, 2020

    ​​Break Free Worldwide LLC is a global organization promoting peace, love, unity, and having fun through arts-education, community engagement, and leader empowerment. The current headquarters, along with its three Houston schools and Kansas City franchise school, teaches breakdancing, DJ, and graffiti art to over 500 students. Amidst the COVID-19 crisis, Break Free effectively managed to create an interactive, online course curriculum with its current student body. The iBreakFree Experience has its students focused, inspired, and motivated while at home with live-stream sessions with their instructors and graded assignments relating to their art-form. This week, Break Free Worldwide is expanding the “iBreakFree Experience” to a multi-continents-level initiative through the Break Free Worldwide 2020 Championship.

    The Worldwide 2020 Breaking Championship spans all over the globe, grouping the competition in four major regions: the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Africa East. Passionate and professional B-Boy and B-Girl athletes from all over the world will have a shot at the $35,000 in cash prizes. Break Free Worldwide is receiving applications from each region via a video-submission to register and will ultimately select 512 competitors to enter the live battles. Taking into consideration the unprecedented times, the six-day live broadcast will be free for viewers worldwide and will include storytelling elements along with the action-packed, live-stream broadcast. A portion of the proceeds raised from the event will go towards Autism Awareness while creating a special-needs dance class for Houston area youth with autism.

    The theme for the Worldwide Championship is “Create Your Escape in SOULidarity.” The impact achieved through this event will effectively unite the global dance community, beginning April 21, 2020, at 8 a.m. CT, when the first round of the Championship goes live.

    At the BreakFree virtual staff meeting, founder Moises Rivas and Chairman Ionel Nechiti shared their beliefs in support of this unique event, obtaining full support from high-level influencers that expands BreakFree’s presence into all global regions, empowering General Manager Jeremy Peña to move full speed ahead with the countdown of the worldwide event, building up the emotions to announce the final winner live on April 26, 2020.

    The Break Free Worldwide 2020 Championship is inviting everyone to enroll as a competitor, sponsor, student or as a viewer in solidarity at https://breakfreeworldwide.com.

    To subscribe or contribute a story to BreakFree’s social media platform via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube, find us at @breakfreeworldwide and use the hashtags #iBreakFree, #iBreakFreeBattle, #BreakFreeWorldwide, #CreateYourEscape, #Soulidarity, and #Worldwide2020Championship.

    CONTACT:
    Break Free Worldwide
    +1-713-315-7687
    https://breakfreeworldwide.com/
    media@breakfreeworldwide.com

    Source: Break Free Worldwide LLC

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  • Thousands of Teachers Participate in Free, Online Professional Development in Reading Instruction Amid Virus Pandemic

    Thousands of Teachers Participate in Free, Online Professional Development in Reading Instruction Amid Virus Pandemic

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    Minnesota-based Winsor Learning Reports Registration and Participation From All 50 U.S. States

    Press Release



    updated: Mar 24, 2020

    ​​Today, Minnesota-based Winsor Learning, the nation’s leading expert and provider of science-based reading instruction for students, reported that more than 3,000 educators from across the nation have signed up to participate in its free, online professional development offerings in the first five days since the initiative was announced. Registrations have come in from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Registration remains open, and the online workshops will continue throughout the coronavirus crisis. 

    “As a company, we are working to do all we can to support teachers, parents, and schools during this time of unprecedented need. We hope that the resources we are providing will empower both teachers and parents to keep students on track with the most fundamental skill they need to succeed as students and in life,” said Amanda Burnette, president of Winsor Learning, a former public school administrator and internationally recognized expert on reading instruction.

    Last week, Winsor Learning released the free online professional development opportunities for teachers, as well as a new Parent Empowerment Pack, which includes three weeks’ worth of lesson plans that parents can do with their children in grades K through 5. 

    To access the menu of professional development opportunities for teachers, click here.

    To access the Parent Empowerment Pack, click here.  

    Winsor Learning provides Orton-Gillingham science-based reading teaching materials and professional development using its best-in-class Sonday System® programs and training. Educational experts at industry-leading organizations such as the National Center for Learning Disabilities and the International Dyslexia Association have evaluated the Sonday System® and deemed that the program contains the required elements for teaching reading identified by the Nation Reading Panel. Winsor Learning believes in giving children their best chance to succeed in school and partners with one of the country’s foremost experts in the Orton-Gillingham multisensory method for reading intervention – Arlene Sonday – to create the Sonday System®, a simple, cost-effective tool for K-12 educators to identify and quickly intervene with struggling readers, as well as teach reading to all children. 

    Winsor Learning created the Sonday System® with Orton-Gillingham expert Arlene Sonday to design a powerful tool that preserves the widely studied and proven Orton-Gillingham method while improving its usability and accessibility. The Sonday System® is the only resource that gives anyone – from experienced reading educators to volunteer tutors – the opportunity to teach reading to anyone, as well as identify, intervene and help struggling students catch up with their peers using effective multisensory instruction.

    MEDIA CONTACT:
    ​Zeke Stokes
    PHONE 202-834-9048
    EMAIL: zeke@zekestokes.com

    Source: Winsor Learning

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  • Lehigh University Partners With Learning Machine to Issue Career Skills Certifications Using Blockcerts

    Lehigh University Partners With Learning Machine to Issue Career Skills Certifications Using Blockcerts

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    Press Release



    updated: Dec 16, 2019

    ​​​As part of Lehigh University’s commitment to developing students’ interdisciplinary skills to address real-world challenges, the University’s Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) has partnered with Learning Machine to issue digital badges and Blockcerts that recognize two types of student development: (1) Career Design, highlighting the learning process centered on career development; and (2) Experiential Learning, highlighting proficiency gained outside of the classroom.

    The objective of Lehigh’s new digital credentialing initiative is to provide Lehigh students the opportunity to learn, apply and gain recognition for the knowledge and skills that employer partners demand. Students will have the opportunity to earn three different Blockcert credentials that represent the learner’s progress in each of the three development areas: Critical Thinking, Global/Intercultural Fluency, and Teamwork/Collaboration. The Blockcerts use NACE’s Career Readiness Competencies to close the gap between Higher Education and the world of work.

    Lori Kennedy, Blockcerts Project Lead for Lehigh, described the value of the initiative: “Lehigh is continuously evolving to support the success of our students while responding to the needs of the global workforce. As we continue to innovate and build upon our collaborations with campus and industry partners, we’re forging new ways to share our distinctive model of career education with the world.”

    Embodying the highest standard for digital document security, a Blockcert is a recipient-owned digital credential that is cryptographically signed and anchored on the blockchain. This provides a tamper-evident credential that is instantly and independently verifiable for free. A digital badge, also known as a micro-credential, is a visual representation or emblem of an acquired skill or accomplishment.

    The stacking of Lehigh’s badges into a single Blockcert offers students, the University, and potential employers multiple benefits. First, a Blockcert can be easily shared with verifiers (employers, other universities, etc.) by sending a link or the Blockcert credential file. Second, verifiers can then easily check the validity of the Blockcert by clicking a “Verify” button, scanning a QR code, or using an online Blockcerts Verification Portal. This verification process is independent of any third-party verification authority, including Learning Machine or any other software provider.

    The game-changing simplicity Blockcerts brings to the typically slow and onerous credential verification process enables student mobility and employability, fully supporting Lehigh’s commitment to delivering real-world career education that equips students for success in a global workforce.

    Cameron McCoy, Lehigh AVP for Economic Engagement & Emerging Initiatives, added, “We believe this effort enables us to extend the Lehigh experience towards successful career management for Lehigh learners while enabling us to bolster our ability to actively verify and validate quality, future-focused, learning during matriculation with immutable records of accomplishment.”

    For further information, please contact:

    Lehigh University: Lori Kennedy / Lori.Kennedy@Lehigh.edu

    Learning Machine: Natalie Smolenski / nsmolenski@learningmachine.com

    Source: Learning Machine

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  • State Tests Show 4th Straight Year of Improvement for Newark’s Citywide Public Education System

    State Tests Show 4th Straight Year of Improvement for Newark’s Citywide Public Education System

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    Press Release



    updated: Dec 4, 2019

    ​​According to a local foundation’s analysis, Newark public school students posted a fourth consecutive year of improved results on New Jersey state tests–with the city’s charter school sector continuing to stand out. “This data is proof positive that Newark is on the right path: a citywide school system of improving district schools, alongside growing charter schools that all work together as neighbors and collaborators,” said ​Kyle Rosenkrans, Executive Director of the New Jersey Children’s  Foundation, ​the group that authored the analysis. 

    “The bottom line is that a larger share of Newark kids are reading and doing math on grade level again this year, and in so doing, they show the rest of the state and the country what’s possible.” 

    Newark’s education system has undergone a transformation over the last decade-plus. Notable amongst the changes was growing the city’s charter sector from just 7% of the students in 2006 to nearly 40% in 2019. The impact of those transformations was cataloged in ​a June 2019 report by New Jersey Children’s Foundation and Margrady Research, titled “A New Baseline.” 

    The new data covers the first full school year under new Superintendent Roger Leon–the first school district leader selected by the city’s elected board of education in decades. Leon has rolled back several changes put in place while the district was under state control but has maintained a collaborative relationship with the city’s growing public charter school sector. 
    Notable findings from the foundation’s analysis of the scores include: 

    Newark Charters Beating the State Again:​ Newark’s public charter school students posted stand out results, besting New Jersey’s statewide average for the second consecutive year–a notable feat in a state that was ​recently ranked number one in public education​. Fifty-three percent of public charter school students were proficient in ELA and Math this year, continuing their work to reverse the achievement gap for Newark kids who are more than twice as likely to be from low-income, black and Hispanic households than the average New Jersey student. 

    The charter school results are consistent with ​research that ranked Newark’s charter sector as number two in America​, second only to Boston’s, which is stifled by a charter school cap. 
    Citywide Trends Continue to Point Up: ​The citywide average of math and reading test scores across all district and charter school students showed improvement yet again this year. This measure has improved every year since the state began using new, more rigorous learning standards five years ago.  

    Key components of the test changed for 2019, which some have attributed to the slower overall rate of improvement–as is common with such transitions. While the rate of improvement may have slowed, the increase in the percentage of proficient students citywide is likely attributable to the growing overall number of students in the city’s high-performing charter school sector. A more detailed breakdown of proficiency rates in math and reading shows that Newark’s schools largely followed the statewide pattern of slower increases in proficiency.

    About the New Jersey Children’s Foundation: 
    The New Jersey Children’s Foundation is a non-profit organization aimed at promoting a 
    fact-based discussion about public education in Newark. Our mission is to invest in people, programs, and partnerships that will improve public education systems by putting the interests of children first. Our vision is that every child will break down the walls of inequity through the creation of high-quality public education systems. Our theory of change is that when communities are armed with accurate information about public education and given the tools to act, cities will demand great schools for every student. 
    ### 

    Contact: Matthew Frankel, MDF Strategies, 917.617.7914

    Source: New Jersey Children’s Foundation

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  • Toynk Toys Announces Upcoming Release for Smithsonian T-Rex Fossil Replica

    Toynk Toys Announces Upcoming Release for Smithsonian T-Rex Fossil Replica

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    Press Release



    updated: Nov 26, 2019

    • The Specimen USNM 555000 replica is hand-painted and fully licensed by the Smithsonian Institute
    • Available for purchase December 2019 at Toynk.com

    Toynk Toys has officially announced the upcoming release for one of its most highly anticipated replica pieces: The Smithsonian T-Rex Skull Fossil Statue – Specimen USNM 555000. 

    Specimen USNM 555000, also known as “the Nation’s T. rex,” was discovered on federal land in 1988 by Montana rancher Kathy Wankel. A team of paleontologists from the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, Montana, led by paleontologist Jack Horner, excavated the fossil from 1989 to 1990. It was then transferred to the Museum of the Rockies by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for preparation and eventual housing at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where it resides today. It is one of the largest and most complete T. rex specimens ever discovered, with 80–85 percent of the skeleton recovered.

    In partnership with the Smithsonian Institute, Master Replicas Group has created an extremely accurate polystone resin replica of the USNM 555000 skull fossil through the use of advanced 3D-scanning technology. This process enabled MRG to capture all of the detail of the original specimen and present it to collectors, dinosaur enthusiasts, and educators in the form of this amazing 1/10th scale replica.

    The replica is currently available for pre-order at www.toynk.com and will be available for purchase in December 2019.

    Source: Toynk Toys

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  • Joy Familytech, Inc. Release Their New Octopus Chart, Designed to Take Daily Routines to a Whole New Level

    Joy Familytech, Inc. Release Their New Octopus Chart, Designed to Take Daily Routines to a Whole New Level

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    Press Release



    updated: Nov 15, 2019

    Joy Familytech, Inc. continues on their mission of offering the gift of good habits with the launch of their newest product, the Octopus Chart. This adaptive daily routine chart for kids includes 175 unique magnetic icons, representing tasks, chores and time periods, to help foster responsibility, independence and self-esteem. Using the magnetic icons and the fridge or favorite magnetic surface, parents can create and customize a visual schedule of their child’s daily routine. Changes can be made quickly and easily, without affecting the rest of the schedule. The icons are reusable and the possibilities are endless.

    Included in each kit:

    • 525 activity, task, and chore themed magnetic icons (175 unique icons) 
    • Reward themed magnetic icons 
    • Days of the week, time and blank customizable magnetic icons

    The Octopus Chart comes on the heels of the first product developed by Joy Familytech, The Octopus Watch Motion Edition, the first icon-based watch that empowers kids by teaching good habits and the concept of time, while also encouraging them to stay active with its fitness tracker.

    Joy Familytech looks forward to helping even more families build good habits and stay consistent with daily routines. The Octopus Chart is available for purchase at Octopus By Joy, on Amazon and at Target stores nationwide.

    About
    Joy Familytech, the innovative brand behind the Octopus Watch and the Octopus Chart, is run by a dedicated team with backgrounds in child development, engineering, business and communications. Their mission is to create amazing technology that promotes independence and self-esteem while also helping families spend more quality time together.

    For additional information, contact Sam Hickmann: sam@heyjoy.io.

    Source: Joy Familytech, Inc.

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  • Texas Teen, Matthew Machicek, Crowned National Champion in 2019 Delo Tractor Restoration Competition

    Texas Teen, Matthew Machicek, Crowned National Champion in 2019 Delo Tractor Restoration Competition

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    Restoration of 1962 Oliver 1800 MFWD Delivers Life Skills and a $10,000 Grand Prize

    Press Release



    updated: Nov 1, 2019

    ​Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, announced Matthew Machicek of Rogers, Texas and the Rogers FFA as the Grand Champion of the 2019 Delo Tractor Restoration Competition. A dozen of the country’s top high school tractor restoration experts competed for the title in Indianapolis, Indiana during the 92nd National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Convention this week.

    “It is inspiring to see how these students respond when faced with an incredibly complex challenge,” said Dan Holdmeyer, Industrial Sector Manager, Chevron Products Company. “To rebuild these tractors, our finalists must become historians, marketing professionals, finance managers, leaders, motivators, teammates, mechanics, counselors, time management experts, auditors and more. Some look at the output of this competition as a restored tractor, but we view it as an empowered, confident teen, practiced in life skills that will benefit them for years to come. We are very proud to have supported this program for so long. Congratulations to Matthew and all our finalists.”

    Matthew Machicek earned the 2019 Delo Tractor Restoration Grand Champion title for his restoration of a 1962 Oliver 1800 MFWD tractor.

    Machicek was awarded $10,000 as the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition Grand Champion. The Reserve Champion title and an award of $5,000 went to Devin Haywood of Hastings, Michigan, for his restoration of a 1970 Farmall 826 Diesel Demonstrator. Ryder Merta of El Campo, Texas took third place and a prize of $3,000 for his restoration of a 1973 Oliver 1365.

    The 2019 entries were narrowed down to 12 finalists who presented their projects to a panel of four seasoned tractor restoration experts. Each project was graded on the restoration process, safety precautions, results, documentation and their oral presentation.

    The finalists for the 2019 Delo Tractor Restoration Competition were:

    • Ben Anderson, Spring Valley, WI: 1947 Allis Chalmers C 
    • Cody Tschirhart, Medina Valley High School FFA, Castroville, TX: 1971 Case 970 Black Knight Demonstrator
    • Devin Haywood, Hastings, MI: 1970 Farmall 826 Diesel Demonstrator 
    • Dubiski Career High School, Grand Prairie, TX: 1941 Ford 9N 
    • Eufaula High School FFA, Eufaula, AL: 1953 Ferguson TO30 
    • Four Rivers Career Center Night Shift, Washington, MO: 1941 Farmall H 
    • Matthew Machicek, Rogers FFA, Rogers, TX: 1962 Oliver 1800 MFWD 
    • Ricky Schilling, Fayetteville, TX: 1972 International Harvester 1466 Diesel
    • Riley Billings, Floresville, TX: 1969 Case 530
    • Ryder Lestrud, Kensett, IA: 1972 John Deere 4020 High Crop
    • Ryder Merta, El Campo FFA, El Campo, TX: 1973 Oliver 1365 
    • Schimke, Paso Robles FFA, Paso Robles, CA: 1945 Farmall A

    About the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition

    Since 1995, the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition has rewarded the determination, mechanical skills and business savvy of high school tractor restoration experts from around the country. Through the restoration of an antique tractor, participants develop skills applicable to the modern business world. The skills needed for success in the program – equipment mechanics, teamwork, project management, budgeting, planning and marketing – help develop the participants into future leaders in the agriculture community.

    All entrants to the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition are required to submit a workbook detailing the entire tractor restoration process – from mechanical overhauls of the engine, transmission and auxiliary and ancillary systems to the external appearance of the tractors.

    For more about the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition, go to: www.DeloTractorRestorationCompetition.com

    Follow the Delo Tractor Restoration Competition Online

    The Delo Tractor Restoration Competition can be followed on various social media channels, including Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

     

    Chevron’s Delo Product Family:

    Chevron’s Delo product family includes engine oils, premium lubricants and extended life coolants that provide premium performance and bottom-line value for diesel-powered vehicles.

    All Delo products are covered under the Delo Warranty Plus program, which provides bumper-to-bumper protection against lubricant and coolant related failures as described in the Delo Warranty.

    More information on Delo products can be found at: www.ChevronDelo.com

    About Chevron Products Company
    Chevron Products Company is a division of an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of the Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX) headquartered in San Ramon, CA. A full line of lubrication and coolant products are marketed through this organization. Select brands include Havoline®, Delo® and Havoline Xpress Lube®. Chevron Intellectual Property, LLC owns patented technology in advanced lubricants products, new generation base oil technology and coolants.

    For more information, go to: www.ChevronLubricants.com

    Source: Chevron

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  • South Bronx Classical Charter School II Recognized as 2019 National Blue Ribbon School in First Year of Eligibility

    South Bronx Classical Charter School II Recognized as 2019 National Blue Ribbon School in First Year of Eligibility

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    Classical Charter Schools prepares students from the South Bronx to become liberated scholars of impeccable character

    Press Release



    updated: Oct 29, 2019

    ​​South Bronx Classical Charter School II was one of 362 outstanding public and non-public schools recognized as 2019 National Blue Ribbon Schools. The prestigious national program and annual award celebrate school excellence, turnaround stories, and the closing of achievement gaps.

    “I’m thrilled that South Bronx Classical Charter School II won the Blue Ribbon in its first year of eligibility,” said Classical Charter Schools Executive Director Lester Long. “Particularly gratifying is that we are listed as an Exemplary High Performing School, which indicates that our scholars are going beyond simply matching their more advantaged peers, but exceeding them.”

    Particularly gratifying is that we are listed as an Exemplary High Performing School, which indicates that our scholars are going beyond simply matching their more advantaged peers, but exceeding them.

    Lester Long, Executive Director

    Minority students from impoverished families benefit most from New York City’s charter schools, which offer strong academics and the prospect of upward mobility. Over 89% of Classical Charter School’s students live below the poverty line, and 98% are African-American or Hispanic.

    There is a palpable urgency and passion behind Classical’s mission to prepare scholars in the South Bronx to excel in college preparatory high schools. Benjamin Arabia, who sits on Classical’s Board of Trustees, noted, “We’re constantly striving to get better in every way. Our aim is to create replicable systems in all our schools that give our scholars the best opportunity to succeed.”

    South Bronx Classical Charter School II opened in August 2013 and prepares K-8th-grade students in the South Bronx to excel in college-preparatory high schools. Through a rigorous, classical curriculum and highly structured approach, students become liberated scholars and citizens of impeccable character who achieve proficiency in and advanced mastery of New York State Performance Standards. School II Director Leena Gyftopoulos stated, “I’m so proud for our school to be recognized. This honor highlights the hard work and dedication that our entire team has demonstrated over the past six years.”

    Gyftopoulos went on to say, “I attribute this achievement to the tireless work of our teachers, the constant leadership of our administrative team, and the tenacity of our scholars.” Charter schools like Classical provide a local high-quality public-school option to New York City’s students and put students first by leveraging the flexibility and autonomy of their charters to establish schools and create school cultures that are designed to serve the needs of the community.

    The U.S. Department of Education will honor the 312 public and 50 private schools at a formal recognition ceremony in Washington, D.C., this November.

    About Classical Charter Schools

    Classical Charter Schools is an award-winning charter school network founded in 2006 in our nation’s poorest congressional district to address the South Bronx’s stark inequality of access to education. For more information on Classical, visit classicalcharterschools.org.

    Media Contact: Amber Roussel, +1 (713) 530-0106

    Source: Classical Charter Schools

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  • Autism Action Partnership Has Earned the Certified Autism Center ™ Designation

    Autism Action Partnership Has Earned the Certified Autism Center ™ Designation

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    Press Release



    updated: Sep 16, 2019

    Autism Action Partnership (AAP) has become a Certified Autism Center™, making it one of only two organizations in the state of Nebraska to attain that designation. The CAC designation is granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

    AAP is a public not-for-profit foundation founded by Gail Werner-Robertson and Scott Robertson. The foundation has been working to create and fund programs that fill critical gaps in Nebraska autism services since 2008. Pursuing this level of professional training and certification aligns with the Mission Statement of AAP, “To improve the quality of life of persons on the autism spectrum and their families through education, advocacy and support, thereby enabling them to be an integral part of the community.”

    AAP’s diverse programming provides critical services to students needing to improve their social skills (Circle of Friends), adults securing permanent employment (PACE), families seeking enrichment opportunities (Making Memories), professionals wanting to promote the safety of those with autism (BE SAFE, Project Lifesaver), and businesses and community venues looking to be more inclusive. The certification process involved concerted professional development to ensure a level of expertise for all staff, in providing the above services. Four AAP employees now carry credentials as Certified Autism Specialists, and one holds an Autism Certificate.

    “Autism continues to become more and more prevalent in our society, with 1 in 59 children (CDC 2018) being diagnosed. As such, it is critical for communities to advance their understanding of autism and create more inclusive practices and environments. Locally, AAP has seen an increase in the number of businesses and community members seeking education about autism and guidance on how to become more ‘sensory-friendly’. In response, AAP determined that all staff should maintain an expertise in these matters and that this expertise should be measured and verified by an external authority,” said Justin Dougherty, AAP Executive Director. “IBCCES was the obvious choice for both their in-depth training programs and worldwide recognition. We are extremely proud to have earned this certification and are confident that our collective expertise was advanced through this process.” 

    For almost 20 years IBCCESS has provided training and certification for education, healthcare, travel, law enforcement, and corporate professionals worldwide who aim to provide quality care to those with special needs. IBCCES is the only training and certification program endorsed by Autism Society and focuses on working with industry leaders to ensure professionals who work with individuals on the spectrum are trained and certified in autism and other cognitive disorders.

    “The continued growth of our partnerships with public not-for-profits like Autism Action Partnership (AAP) is a positive sign for the communities served by these organizations,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “We are excited AAP has taken the necessary steps to achieve the CAC designation and are proud of the work that they do.”

    ###

     

    About AAP:

    AAP’s mission is to improve the quality of life of persons on the Autism Spectrum and their families through education, advocacy and support, thereby enabling them to be an integral part of the community. Autism Action Partnership (AAP) has served the needs of the Nebraska autism community for over a decade. Over that time, the diagnosis and prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has grown significantly, worldwide and locally. With the growing population has come a greater array of needs for individuals with autism and their families, and, in turn, a greater demand for AAP services. AAP remains dedicated to meetings the needs of the local autism community through three core programming areas: Education, Workforce Development, and Enrichment and Inclusion.

    About IBCCES

    Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

    MEDIA CONTACT:

    Autism Action Partnership

     Justin Dougherty, Executive Director                                                              

    Phone: 402-763-8830, ext.1001      

    Email: jdougherty@autismaction.org                                                             

     

    IBCCES

    Meredith Tekin, President
    Phone: 904.508.0135 // 904.434.1534
    Email: meredith@ibcces.org

    Source: IBCCES

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  • Kids Science Labs Announces New Introduction to Chemistry and Physics Series

    Kids Science Labs Announces New Introduction to Chemistry and Physics Series

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    Award-winning Children’s Hands-on Science and Innovation Centers – Kids Science Labs

    Press Release



    updated: Aug 29, 2019

    ​Kids Science Labs today announced an exciting new hands-on science series “Introduction to Chemistry and Physics” for children 3-12 years old. 

    This all-new series takes students on an adventure into the core concepts of Chemistry and Physics and applies them to real world experiences – from why trees can grow so tall to the chemistry and physics required to design running shoes. “Kids want to mix, build, break and explore. Early experience with hands-on science opens doors to problem solving and creativity and also builds an early interest in STEM careers,” says Nina Tinucci, Director of Education. 

    This new series has been under development for two years. “We are very excited about our Introduction to Chemistry and Physics series, which provides kids an early advantage for understanding concepts they will see in high school and college,” says Keith Norsym, co-founder at Kids Science Labs. “There is something deeply satisfying about solving a problem and being able to apply that new knowledge to the world around us – as Chemistry and Physics are intertwined in our daily lives.”  

    Features and benefits include:

    • Children and parents have been requesting a fun and engaging introduction to real chemistry and physics to help prepare for school.  
    • Studies have shown that early and regular exposure to science and problem-solving leads to long-term out-performance.
    • On average children receive 45 minutes of science instruction a week; classes at KSL are 75 minutes a week.  
    • A STEM degree is just about the most valuable asset a young person can have in the modern economy.

    The “Introduction to Chemistry & Physics” series will be available starting September 10 at all of their learning centers. For more information, visit www.kidssciencelabs.com.

    About Kids Science Labs

    What began as a single location in 2011 has grown into a nationally recognized brand that is teaching kids problem-solving, creativity and innovation. Started by two dads and engineers, Shegan Campbell and Keith Norsym, the science-learning centers run classes, camps, and events for children that enable them to explore their world through hands-on experiments all year round. 

    With computer programming and STEM fields expanding at rapid rates, parents and kids are searching for opportunities to gain an early advantage, even before preschool. 

    Since opening the first center in 2011, Kids Science Labs has taught over 100,000 students a year at their centers located in Chicago and Seattle. As the company continues to expand nationally, kids ages 2-14 years old are becoming better problem solvers and critical thinkers through hands-on science experiments. Parents see their children gain confidence and learn core science concepts all while having fun and exploring questions they are interested in.  

    Kids Science Labs is on a mission to enable the next generation of creative thinkers. Find out more.

    www.kidssciencelabs.com

    Source: Kids Science Labs

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  • Zigurat Unites Students of 43 Nationalities and 11 Master’s Programs for the Celebration of Student Week 2019 in Barcelona

    Zigurat Unites Students of 43 Nationalities and 11 Master’s Programs for the Celebration of Student Week 2019 in Barcelona

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    Universitat de Barcelona reaffirms its commitment to Zigurat through the Institut de Formació Contínua-IL3 by offering its facilities for the event

    Press Release



    updated: Aug 7, 2019

    ​​​​Zigurat Global Institute of Technology brought together in the city of Barcelona students of 43 nationalities to celebrate the second edition of the Zigurat Student Week, held in the building of the Institut de Formació Contínua IL3 – Universitat de Barcelona.

    Participants of 11 master’s programs, coming from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, North and South America, met in person to participate in academic workshops presented by professors and industry leaders and to visit a selection of locally based projects and pioneering companies.

    Listening to the industry

    At the event, the latest industry trends, in terms of digital transformation, were covered, such as the innovative proposals in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), presented by Angela Shen-Hsieh from Telefónica; the introduction to key issues such as Technological Ethics and Intrapreneurship from a 100% digital perspective, a session directed by Robin Weninger from shapingwork; and the different applications of Blockchain, by the hand of Dr. Daniel Diemers, who ended his session with a very interesting Shark Tank dynamic. Jean Bosco Ahorukomeye, a student of Global Master’s in Blockchain Technologies, sums up his experience at the event: “I have met a lot of people, made friends and many contacts for my future and my business.”

    The Architecture and Engineering students examined several implementation cases of BIM methodology, as well as new digital workflows and the most innovative collaborative processes. The concepts of Smart Contracts and the increasingly popular Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) were addressed from a very practical and dynamic approach to encourage teamwork and collaboration among participants. The presentations by architect Ignasi Pérez Arnal and engineer Issam El-Absi, on IPD and BIM workflow creation, respectively, were particularly highlighted by the participants. What the Master’s in Global BIM Management student Nasreen Mursi values most about the event is that it “truly connects you with everything that is happening in the industry.”

    In addition, more transversal sessions were also held to cultivate less technical, but equally essential, social skills, such as communication, leadership and team building, at the hands of international specialists such as James Basha.

    Visits to companies and sites to complete the ‘Barcelona experience’

    ​The Zigurat Student Week was also an ideal opportunity to get to know first-hand the technology companies and outstanding projects in the city. The students of Digital Transformation and Blockchain visited Telefónica’s headquarters and Barcelona Tech City to get to know the technological ecosystem and the panorama of digital innovation in the city better, among which the initiative of Mobile World Capital Barcelona stands out for receiving the MWC in Barcelona. For their part, the students of Architecture and Engineering got to know the Networkia Business Center, a unique project developed and executed entirely in BIM in the very center of Barcelona.  

    Zigurat Awards

    To conclude an unforgettable week for everyone, Zigurat rewarded the work and effort of the participants by delivering the now traditional Zigurat Awards, which recognized teams and professionals who excelled in different academic activities during the week.

    About Zigurat Global Institute of Technology

    https://www.e-zigurat.com 

    Zigurat Global Institute of Technology is an educational institution that has managed to bring together people, knowledge, industry, and technology. Zigurat contributes to the progress of society with an advanced, innovative and disruptive proposal, linking the master’s programs with the real skills of today’s industry.

    Source: Zigurat Global Institute of Technology

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  • World’s Youngest Future Astronaut, Zainab Azim, Continues to Inspire the World

    World’s Youngest Future Astronaut, Zainab Azim, Continues to Inspire the World

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    Press Release



    updated: Jul 17, 2019

    16-year-old Zainab Azim, the World’s Youngest Future Astronaut, has become a sought-after inspirational speaker at International Conferences in Europe and North America.

    Zainab was recently invited by the Technological Aerospace Cluster (DTA) to attend two international events in Puglia, Italy. During her inspirational speeches on May 29-30, Zainab passionately spoke about the importance of investing in the next generation to encourage interest in STEM fields among youth. As an outspoken advocate, she elaborated on why both education and space exploration are essential to addressing some of the earth’s challenges. Zainab also candidly shared that her knowledge of space was obtained through personal research. “In order to get more young people interested in STEM and astronomy fields, in general, we need to educate,” said Zainab. “There are still 52 million children around the world that still don’t have an education.” She emphasized the importance of education, mentorship and access to opportunity for all. Zainab reiterated how essential it is to work together with women, people of color and youth to secure a future for the next generation to thrive and not just survive.

    Zainab’s passion for space exploration started when she was just 6 years old as she began learning about the solar system. In addition to her natural curiosity, Zainab’s parents and teachers helped to foster a love of space by providing access to quality resources. Zainab says she is inspired by female astronauts and their groundbreaking achievements, such as: Roberta Bondar, Sally Ride and Anousheh Ansari (the first female private space explorer), who has personally encouraged the teen in her endeavors.

    In 2015, Zainab was featured as part of, as well as invited to, speak at the inaugural International Space Girls Space Women Exhibition in Paris, France. This organization supports girls with space exploration dreams by connecting them with women in the industry. Through this, as well as her other initiatives, Zainab endeavored to inspire the equal opportunity for all projects globally, with special focus on diversity and inclusion. Zainab’s accomplishments have been featured in the media both nationally and internationally including: Time Magazine, CBC, CTV, CHCH and CityNews.

    Zainab is the youngest future astronaut to fly with Virgin Galactic, which will allow her to fulfill her dreams of exploring space in the near future. As the 50th anniversary of the first person on the moon approaches on July 20, Zainab remains focused on inspiring other girls to get an education and dream big: “Shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars.”

    Zainab continues to be a highly sought-after inspirational speaker with various International engagements. In particular, Zainab is looking forward to speaking at one of the most important International events in September in the presence of the host country’s Prime Minister.

    For Interview Requests, Press Conference Bookings or Speaking Engagements with Zainab Azim, Please Contact:

    Dr. Rabiya Azim, azim@minmaxx.com, +1-647-889-1444

    Source: Zainab Azim Inspirational Talks

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  • Children’s Learning Adventure is Developing Kindergarten Readiness Skills

    Children’s Learning Adventure is Developing Kindergarten Readiness Skills

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    Press Release



    updated: Jul 1, 2019

    ​​Children’s Learning Adventure is committed to helping prepare students for kindergarten through their comprehensive Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten programs. Their Lifetime Adventures® Early Learning Standards supports student achievement by introducing the skills necessary for a successful kindergarten experience. Students are introduced daily to STEAM-based curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, The Arts, and Mathematics) while participating in specialty enrichment classes, gathering time, social studies, science, health and more.

    A child’s social development involves learning the values, knowledge and skills that enable him/her to relate to others effectively. Building these relationships impacts a child’s positive contributions in the community, with family and at school. At Children’s Learning Adventure, children develop these interpersonal skills in Imagination Island, a uniquely designed miniature city created to enhance social interactions and development. This play-based learning environment supports and influences children’s social development.

    Children’s Learning Adventure has also created monthly themes related to their curriculum. Students are introduced to various learning activities in each classroom that focus on a monthly theme, such as “Things That Go,” “Health and Nutrition” and “Tropical Adventures.”

    Children’s Learning Adventure also promotes lifelong health and well-being to their students, as it begins in early childhood. Children experience a variety of meaningful, physical activities in a climate controlled indoor gym and outdoor play area. Children develop socially and physically as they interact with peers and teachers daily, building an understanding of team and individual sports.

    To instill a love for learning, Children’s Learning Adventure has created fun and interactive activities for their students. These activities allow them to discover and explore areas they are interested in while learning about something new. Founder and CEO Rick Sodja explains, “What separates Children’s Learning Adventure from others is that we champion working collaboratively with parents to develop students into lifelong learners.”

    Children’s Learning Adventure believes it is important to provide a fun, positive and engaging atmosphere for both their students and parents. They offer innovative lesson plans and enjoyable learning activities that are developmentally appropriate. Children’s Learning Adventure creates a welcoming and nurturing environment that encourages parents and families to be actively involved with their children’s learning experiences throughout the year.

    Children’s Learning Adventure is now accepting fall enrollment for all programs. To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure or their STEAM-based curriculum, please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com.

    Kyle Greenberg 

    kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com  

    Creative Manager 

    Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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  • Children’s Learning Adventure Continues to Help Kids Grow With STEAM-Based Curriculum

    Children’s Learning Adventure Continues to Help Kids Grow With STEAM-Based Curriculum

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    Press Release



    updated: Jun 25, 2019

    Children’s Learning Adventure continues to help their students grow with STEAM-based curriculum while also offering unique environments designed at each center to capture a child’s imagination and encourage exploration. Their proprietary curriculum is STEAM based and is seamlessly integrated into every classroom.

    Each campus offers specialty classrooms and an outdoor playground that encourages students to actively engage in the learning process. A child’s learning environment can directly affect their learning and their overall educational experience, so Children’s Learning Adventure has created their campuses to be engaging, exciting and fun. Their main goal is to make learning an adventure and encourage their students to actively participate in the learning process in a safe and welcoming environment.

    Children’s Learning Adventure believes that the implementation of a STEAM-based curriculum is a meaningful way to prepare children for everyday life. They encourage intellectual growth through engaging, hands-on STEAM activities. Teachers at Children’s Learning Adventure also encourage children to actively participate in and explore the various learning activities. By using this unique approach to teaching science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics, their students develop the necessary critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need to be successful inside and outside the classroom.

    “The learning process is an ongoing adventure that requires perseverance and support. At Children’s Learning Adventure, we encourage students to set and reach their educational and personal goals,” said Rick Sodja, CEO.

    A core objective at Children’s Learning Adventure is to prepare and equip their students to excel in their lifelong academic journeys. They implement a STEAM-based curriculum daily to immerse students in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. By surrounding students with engaging teachers, stimulating environments and purposeful curriculum, Children’s Learning Adventure had made it their main goal to help build a foundation for their students’ future academic careers while preparing them for a lifetime of positive thinking and excitement towards learning.

    To learn more about  Children’s Learning Adventure, please visit http://www.childrenslearningadventure.com/.

    Media Contact:
    Kyle Greenberg
    ​kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
    Creative Manager

    Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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  • Exceptional Minds Class of 2019 Begins Careers in Digital Arts

    Exceptional Minds Class of 2019 Begins Careers in Digital Arts

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    The 2019 graduating class made up of six men and one woman on the autism spectrum is the sixth graduating class for Exceptional Minds, a pioneer in autism employability, self-sufficiency and inclusion.

    Press Release



    updated: Jun 11, 2019

    ​​After three years of technical and work-readiness training, the Exceptional Minds class of 2019 ended their formal education on Friday and began their professional careers in the competitive digital arts fields.

    The 2019 graduating class made up of six men and one woman on the autism spectrum is the sixth graduating class for Exceptional Minds, a pioneer in autism employability, self-sufficiency, and inclusion and belonging. “These grads are an example of what the potential and possibilities are for individuals with autism,” said Exceptional Minds Executive Director Jeff Shapiro, who addressed family and friends during Friday’s commencement at the school in Sherman Oaks.

    Exceptional Minds is a professional training academy and studio with a mission to prepare individuals on the autism spectrum for careers in the fields of visual effects, animation, titles, and animation and rigging for games. Full-time program graduates Chris Iddamalgoda, Peter Jensen, Jacob Riess, Russell Sayre, Luke Shneour and Quinn Wright as well as Alex Adlawan join an alumni body of Exceptional Minds graduates who have gone on to work for entertainment companies such as Marvel Studios and Cartoon Network and to complete visual effects for major motion pictures and animations for entertainment organizations such as Sesame Workshop.

    “Our ability to interpret the world differently … can have challenges. Despite the impediments that were laid down in front of us … we stayed focused and became an exceptional mind,” said graduate Chris Iddamalgoda, who will begin his career in animation with an emphasis in game rigging as an apprentice in the Exceptional Minds studio.

    Exceptional Minds academy opened its doors in 2011 and in 2014, opened a professional studio to bring in contract work for graduates of its three-year program. Since then, Exceptional Minds artists with autism have completed projects for more than 196 movies and television shows, including Oscar-nominated movies Avengers: Infinity War, Black Panther, First Man, Green Book and Solo: A Star Wars Story as well as recent blockbuster Avengers: Endgame and for notable TV shows such as Game of Thrones, The Good Doctor and Atypical. Exceptional Minds clients include Sesame Workshop, Disney, HBO, Marvel Studios, Netflix, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures and Warner Bros., among others.

    During Friday’s graduation, the students and staff awarded Exceptional Minds founding board member Helen Wu with its Exceptional Minds Ed Asner Award. The award is named after the school’s most notable founding advisor and is presented annually to a champion of Exceptional Minds and its cause to transform expectations for autism employability. Wu is the seventh recipient of the award, following Gretchen Libby of Industrial Light & Magic, Robert Sorcher of Cartoon Network, Holly Schiffer of HBO, Victoria Alonso of Marvel Studios, Sam Nicholson of Stargate Studios and Ed Asner himself.

    “The common core belief that brought us all together was that we needed to create a place of belonging. And not just a place of belonging at Exceptional Minds, but the belief that [people with autism] belong and deserve to be in greater society and achieving all the great things that everybody wants in life,” said Wu, who served as board chair the first six years of Exceptional Minds’ existence. One of her many achievements was to help create independent housing alternatives for her son on the spectrum as well as the students at Exceptional Minds.

    Graduating along with the full-time students on Friday was Alex Adlawan, the first to complete the academy’s Freelance Exceptional Artist Program (FLEAT), which is part of the school’s growing initiative to reach a wider autism population through workshops, private tutoring and virtual online instruction.

    The training academy now annually serves an average of 250 full-time, part-time and privately tutored students (as well as graduate artists), providing technical as well as behavioral training to a population sorely underrepresented in both the labor market and society as a whole.

    According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 84 percent of adults with autism are unemployed and many more are underemployed.

    The U.S. Center for Disease Control estimates that one in 59 kids is now diagnosed with autism.  

    Source: Exceptional Minds

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  • Children’s Learning Adventure Commits to Helping Students Grow This Summer

    Children’s Learning Adventure Commits to Helping Students Grow This Summer

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    Press Release



    updated: Jun 9, 2019

    Children’s Learning Adventure helps teach their students the value of adopting personal skills that they can use outside of their traditional learning environment. Practicing interpersonal skills are invaluable for young students, as these skills will apply throughout their lives. Children’s Learning Adventure incorporates these skills in their homeroom and specialty classrooms as well as their summer camp, with role play and meaningful activities to encourage students to develop and hone interpersonal skills.

    Children’s Learning Adventure also offers non-stop, exciting experiences throughout the summer. This year’s “Hooray for Hollywood” summer camp is centered around all things Hollywood and movie magic. It includes lunch and snacks, weekly field trips and engaging STEAM-based activities. In addition to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, Children’s Learning Adventure also provides campers with the opportunity to thoroughly explore and discover the arts.

    Each summer camp is intentionally planned to offer a specialized, uniquely designed curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning and literacy. Every year, a theme is chosen and developed to engage students of all levels in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.

    “At Children’s Learning Adventure questions, curiosity, and hand-on learning experiences are encouraged and valued. By implementing fun and purposeful STEAM based lessons and activities, we create an engaging environment where students can enjoy the learning process. Our students grow, learn, and explore every day!” – Rick Sodja, CEO

    The all-inclusive camp, available at all 44 Children’s Learning Adventure campuses, also includes weekly field trips, meals, activities, and flexible scheduling. Giving campers the experience of a lifetime, so they can enjoy their summer while also learning something new.

    To learn more about Children’s  Learning  Adventure or Summer Camp please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com.

    Media Contact:

    Kyle Greenberg
    kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
    Creative Manager

    Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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