Educators: Leading by Doing
Using Real World Experience as Learning & Leadership Tools
Use cases to teach STEM concepts where students “own” their learning.
First pioneered at Harvard University, educators use the Socratic method in the classroom. Characterized by answering the question “why”, students are asked to solve a real problem with a school community, business or arts partner. Determining the primary challenge, reviewing alternatives, performing research, working in teams, doing analysis, discussing opportunities and presenting solutions are the essential learning methods.
PIE has had tremendous success bringing together STEM educators + business leaders in developing new hands on experiences driving critical thinking and career readiness skills.
We need more of these programs in Ohio School Districts. In fact, I’m prepared to join other State and Education Committee legislators to visit these PIE schools and see ‘first hand’ how they are preparing Ohio students for the global marketplace. We need to be the leader in providing innovative and work-ready opportunities for our youngest citizens, in collaboration with Ohio’s STEM industry leaders.
Ohio State Representative Andrew Brenner, Member, Ohio Straight A Fund Governing Board
PIE overcomes the disconnect between K-12 and real life. It offers more engagement to kids, allowing them to "own" their learning. The Governor and I talk about how to connect jobs to the classroom. This is an innovative program allowing kids - and adults - to start thinking in this way.
Dr. Richard A. Ross, Ohio Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ohio Department of Education
PIE has earned the respect and esteem of many and we are certain that in the years to come, it will continue to display the same unwavering commitment to excellence for which you have become known. PIE is truly deserving of high praise.
President Keith Faber, Ohio Senate, Ohio General Assembly Commendation - Partnership for Innovation in Education
PIE enables students to excel in the workforce and guarantee a high level of success. Because of PIE, Ohio has gained a reputation as a state whose organizations are responsive to the problems and needs of their communities.
Speaker Clifford A. Rosenberger, Ohio House of Representatives, Ohio General Assembly Tribute
We congratulate PIE on developing transformational K12 STEM curriculum connecting educators with business leaders and creating new learning and leadership tools for 21st century workforce success. Ohio is a better place because of PIE.
Ohio Governor John Kasich & Ohio Lt. Governor Mary Taylor, State of Ohio Commendation
Partnering with the GCWAC on this app gave our students the chance to learn more about other cultures and languages in a fun, digital format. They learned why it’s important to analyze a country’s financial health and how it impacts its citizens and their environment. In the end, the students figured out that the children of Brazil aren’t very different from themselves.
Jenny Mauch, Principal for Pleasant Ridge Montessori
This project gave our students the opportunity to use critical thinking skills like a scientist that will help them in their future careers. Taft and PIE showed our students how art better informs STEM skills. You can’t be a great scientist without using creativity and innovation in your work. Tell me how I can help bring this program to our school again!
Lisa Votaw, Principal of Aiken New Tech High School
Without the partnership with PIE, our students would not have access to this new and innovative approach to learning. This curriculum allows students to be prepared to adapt to new and innovative approaches to learning throughout their educational careers.
Michael Borchers, Superintendent, Ludlow KY Independent Schools
“With PIE serving as the link, this program allowed a meaningful way for business partners to actually become involved with our school.
Dr. Robert Farrell, Superintendent, Milford Public Schools
PIE helps develop problem-solving skills employers want, and helps make our students career-ready.
Mary Ronan, Superintendent, Cincinnati Public Schools
The students were especially excited to meet with the orchestra members and the sound engineers. Not only did they enjoy a problem solving opportunity, but they also had the chance to experience the thrill of listening and creating a musical experience. Using music to teach math and science makes sense. The kids learned that developing a musical score depends upon sound ‘ecosystems’. This project provided them a chance to experience 21st century careers and gain valuable new skill sets with an international arts partner.
Doug , Rothenberg Preparatory Academy
This program allowed my students to take leadership roles in their learning. They realized their future STEM career dreams with PIE.
Brandi, Aiken New Tech School, Cincinnati Public Schools
Our case partner was amazing. They delivered a new learning process and an authentic ‘doing’ experience to our students. My kids won’t forget this case!
Vickie, Hyde Park School, Cincinnati Public Schools
My students are excited coming to class. They love having an authentic CEO “in residence” serving as a possible glimpse of their future career. He’s not only an educational asset in our classroom, he’s a “doing” mentor for our students.
Stephanie , Kilgour Elementary School, Cincinnati Public Schools
PIE’s Case-based learning builds relevance for learning in the classroom. I’m committed to adopting these programs in my new school next year.
Diane , The Helen Keller School, (P.S. 153) New York City Public Schools