Students Representing at the 2010 National Charter Schools Conference

There were several student groups in attendance at the conference, but I was only able to capture the scholars of Voise Academy, a charter school on the West Side of Chicago, and the technical geniuses of Phoenix Charter School in Greenville, Texas.

Voise Academy – Chicago, IL

Voise Academy - 2010 National Charter School Conference — Aaryn, Sydney, Clarencia (right) and Amber (left)

These young people came out to share their love for learning and their school, Voise Academy. According to Patrick Staley, the World Studies teacher, and the students, technology and textbooks are used to educate students. However, technology is used for enhancing education and communication. Sarah Johnson was also helping to share the love of Voise.

I had the opportunity to witness a mini class session. Mr. Staley had the students to go to CNN world news, select a story, and give a summary of what they read. They could NOT use text message lingo. I was in love…real writing!

Mr. Staley opened a chat window, and all of the students had to share their stories. It was interesting that three of the students picked the same story. But, it was a great experience for me to witness students in action. Especially using writing and technology, two of my most favorite subjects.

Phoenix Charter School – Greenville, TX

Phoenix Charter School - 2010 National Charter School Conference — Phoenix Robotics Team - Jonathan, Justin, Ben, Matt

Matthew Wineinger, the Tech instructor and assistant team coach, informed me that the above young men are members of the Phoenix Charter School Firebots. With the help of their 13 other team members, engineers, and teachers, they designed the Phoenix Firebots 1604, they also became Lovejoy Extreme Engineering Robotics Tournament Champions. Their robotic creation can score four footballs consistently; pick up the bonus ball off the floor and score; and pick up ball from anywhere in the play. They not only built the robot; they had to program it on the computer. Check out their creation below

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FX_busOF-c

It was truly an honor to experience the promise of these young people. I give kudos to the instructors and other adults who give their time, talents and energy to bring out the genius in these young people.