Real people + real experience = real engagement and a greater sense of application.
Our Business and Society students are getting a unique opportunity to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the real world through an incredible lineup of community and business leaders.
Even better, this course is offered in partnership with UW-Whitewater, giving students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.
Teacher Kurt Nickelsburg had a vision for this course that went beyond the traditional classroom. He wanted students to learn directly from professionals who are doing the work, making decisions, solving problems, and helping shape our community.
So far, students have had the opportunity to engage with:
• Mason Becker, City of Whitewater Community Development Director, who spoke about understanding America’s marketplace, business in our community, and the industry needs of our community.
• Representative Angelina Cruz and Representative Brienne Brown, who spoke with students about business in underserved communities, including challenges and potential solutions in minority and low-income communities.
• Deb Reinbold, Executive Director of ThriveED, who also engaged students in conversations about business in underserved communities, problems, and potential solutions.
These experiences give students the chance to ask questions, hear different perspectives, and better understand how the concepts they are learning apply beyond the classroom.
This is what learning looks like when we connect students with the people and experiences that make our community and economy work.
And this is just the beginning. Kurt has an extensive lineup of guest speakers planned for this course, so there are many more opportunities for students to learn from professionals in our community and beyond.
More shoutouts to come!
A huge thank you to Kurt for creating these opportunities for our students and to all of our community partners who are willing to share their time, expertise, and experiences with the next generation.
Article and Photos Submitted by Mike Rick
WUSD Career and Technical Education Coordinator
ricmi01@wwusd.org
