Classroom Mentors Requested
6th Grade to Start mixINCedu 2nd Semester
Beginning 2nd Semester, 6th graders at both Shepard Middle School and Caruso Middle School will be starting mixINCedu during their Advisory/Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) class period. This program empowers students with the tools and mindset to explore what it takes to be an entrepreneur. In doing so, they will be employing the personal development skills they have been learning about in the first semester through a real-world, hands-on experience.
Here is how mixINCedu works:
It begins with students working in teams to identify a problem to solve. This problem can be one that impacts students in their school, their local community, or it can be something with a more global impact. They get to decide!
Next, teams will brainstorm possible products or service concepts to address their identified problem.
Next, they will gather information and conduct research to see if their proposed product or service will actually offer a viable solution.
Finally, they will construct their concept, create a pitch, deliver their pitch to a panel, and market their product or service using an e-commerce platform.
What is the goal? This team-based, project-based platform will help students practice adaptability, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. While the focus of their projects will be philanthropic, they will also be learning about entrepreneurship. A portion of the proceeds from their projects will be donated to a cause chosen by the class.
How can I help? We are seeking one mentor per class (14 total, 7 per middle school) from our business community. Anyone with experience in entrepreneurship, sales, marketing, accounting, etc. could lend their expertise and support students as they go through the above-described process.
If interested, what is my commitment? The mentor would partner directly with one of our SEL teachers to assist with approximately 8 lessons beginning in January and concluding in April. These classes are held daily and are scheduled in the afternoon.
If still interested in volunteering, how do I let the district know? Please complete this brief, attached form and submit it no later than Friday, January 11th. Someone will be in touch to schedule next steps in early January.
If I still have questions, who do I contact? Danielle Arnold, Director for Learning and Innovation, can be reached via email at darnold@dps109.org or by phone at 847-945-1844.