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Great American Teach-In offers variety
| Article published on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009 |
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From top culinary chef demonstrations at Tarpon Springs High to exotic pets at Ridgecrest Elementary, the Progress Energy Great American Teach-In on Nov. 18 covered a wide range of topics and offer an array of educational delights to students throughout the district.
Approximately 10,000 volunteer presenters were expected this year.
Since 1994, participants ranging from elementary school students to retirees have given presentations on everything from art to zoology. Since then, a total of 68,687 volunteers gave 179,525 presentations in Pinellas County’s public schools.
They’ve come in costume, put on plays, offered potentially life-saving information, showed off their pets, discussed career options, shared precious souvenirs, talked about other parts of the world, brought the past to life, performed a song or dance, cooked delicious meals, stepped down from the pedestal of celebrity to meet students at their level or simply read a story to little ones.
Many exciting presentations were made throughout the district.
Tarpon Springs Aquarium brought in a 14-ft. python and an alligator to Sutherland Elementary. In addition, Guy Waters, archeologist, shared several artifacts.
Paul B. Stephens School had African drumming, balloon sculpting, yoga for children with disabilities, rug making from rags, “Pirate Parrots” and mini horses. Seminole High School presented street law – information that will be pertinent to youth and the Seminole community.
Several magnet schools highlighted their educational focus. The Center for Medical Science and Wellness at Lakewood Elementary had several presenters from the medical field — a chemist and a doctor.
Douglas L. Jamerson, Center for Mathematics and Engineering, focused on space engineering, firefighters using global positioning systems and smoke detectors developed by NASA research.
Jim Madden, deputy superintendent, Pinellas County Schools, visited Sutherland Elementary and school board members, administrators and employees are scheduled to participate.
Also scheduled to present were current and former professional athletes; judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys; mayors and other government officials; TV and radio reporters and personalities; newspaper, radio and TV columnists, anchors and reporters; parents and grandparents; physicians; veterinarians; attorneys; stockbrokers; artists; musicians; business owners; retired persons; students of all ages and many more. From the biggest high school auditorium to the smallest kindergarten classroom, Teach-In volunteers will be inspiring, entertaining and motivating students.
Progress Energy Florida has sponsored the Great American Teach-In in Pinellas for the past 16 years, providing printed materials, promotional activities and enthusiastic support. Many Progress Energy employees volunteer for the Teach-In and establish ongoing partnerships with several district schools.
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Article published on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009
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