Apple Valley High School students worked in groups on the laser engraver in the “Fab Lab” to create a prototype for BTM Global.
English teacher Christina Anderson examines her school’s laboratory to figure out how her writing students could use the equipment to do assignments. Physics teacher Chris Lee takes students to the lab and encourages them to find a niche and space. Jim Lynch forges partnerships with local businesses to help students become equipped to enter the workforce.
With shortages in skilled high-tech jobs, school districts like Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan are stepping out to bridge the divide between what they teach and what employers are looking for in workers.
For example, Apple Valley High School’s “E3 STEM” program has partnered with local businesses and colleges on creative ways to connect high schoolers on STEM subjects — science, technology, engineering and math — and make the transition to college and the workforce smooth.
