Inside and outside the classroom, Tech Valley is engaged in a number of innovative programs geared toward preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow, creating excitement about the sciences and math and providing educators the resources they need and recognition they deserve.
Here are just a few of the many programs throughout Tech Valley that are informing, influencing and inspiring our students and teachers.
Tech Valley Teacher Externship Program
The Tech Valley Teacher Externship Program provides middle- and high-school teachers with applicable, hands-on work experience in high-tech environments throughout Tech Valley.
The program, which runs from four to six weeks between July 1 and August 31, is designed to expose teachers to careers in the math, science and technology fields, and educate them about the skills that are needed for the future workforce in Tech Valley.
Other benefits for teachers include:
- Exposure to advancements in their fields of study
- Tangible examples to bring back to their classrooms
- Valuable insights into the demands and challenges of the modern workplace
- Understanding of the skills necessary for our present and future tech innovators
- Teachers are paid for a full-time working schedule, and will gain professional credit.
Benefits for businesses include the ability to:
- Connect with local teachers, schools, and students
- Gain deeper insight into public education
- Inform teachers about recent industry changes
- Bring energetic people on board who are eager to learn
The Teacher Externship Program has established itself as a highly sought professional development experience and has grown every year since inception in 2005. From alumni feedback we have been able to see what a huge impact this program has on teachers, businesses, students and the region as a whole.
For more information on either hosting a teacher or applying for an externship position, contact Karen Fox at (518) 431-1435 or karenf@acchamber.org.
Tech Valley High School
Tech Valley High is a new public high school that opened with 40 students from 35 school districts in the fall 2007. It will support the region’s growth and economy by providing a unique educational opportunity in the region’s emerging technologies.
The school will serve no more than 400 students in grades 9-12. The academically rigorous curriculum will focus on math, science and technology and cultivate an appreciation in the technologies for which Tech Valley is recognized; biotechnology, nanotechnology, information technology, energy technology and advanced materials. Students will learn in an innovative and professional environment fostered by the use of advanced learning methods, including project-based learning and technology.