Shayne Hellebuyck, the technology teacher at Imlay City Middle School, is heading up a unique workshop for the school’s female students next month.
IMLAY CITY — There’s a unique experience on the way for girls at Imlay City Middle School (ICMS).
The school’s technology teacher, Shayne Hellebuyck, is heading up a unique workshop called Girls GET-IT (Girls Exploring Together – Information Technology) on Tuesday, Oct. 12.
It’s a one-day, in-school event for girls that focuses on careers in technology. The workshop will be held in the newly renovated ICMS Maker Space (formerly known as the library).
The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) is partnering with corporate sponsors Ally Bank,
Ford Motor Company and Dow to provide this event at no cost to students or the middle school. This program will be offered to sixth through eighth-grade girls.
Students will spend roughly five hours of the day in handson activities and live virtual Zoom sessions with various leaders in the field. Together, they will explore the many facets of information technology. Corporate sponsors provide workshop materials for hands-on learning as well as snacks to keep the students energized during the school day.
In addition to this one-day workshop, Hellebuyck will be sponsoring a Girls GETIT school club from October to the end of the school year. Students involved in the program explore a growing career field while enhancing their math and science skills, along with their confidence. GET-IT helps prepare them for college, strengthening teamwork, problem-solving and organizational skills. Students will have opportunities to explore hands-on technology education, participate in a web design contest and listen to business speakers.
Hellebuyck said she’s looking forward to a productive and exciting experience for the students. “This is a wonderful opportunity for girls to explore relevant technology related career fields that they may not traditionally have an opportunity to experience at a young age,” she said. “We are looking for a great turnout for the workshop and we hope to spark interest in our new Girls GET-IT school club.”
Gloss