ESD Launches New High School Program at Future City Competition

SOUTHFIELD -- More than 500 students from throughout the State of Michigan are getting ready once again to compete in the 17th annual Michigan Regional Future City Competition on Monday, Jan. 30 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.

In addition to showing off their cities of the future, these students will also demonstrate their understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math -- an important skill that will help them transition later to ESD's newest high school program, "Engineering SMArT Detroit."

In an effort to keep the momentum going from middle to high school, ESD will be introducing a brand new program during Future City, called "Engineering SMArT Detroit." This program will give high schoolers a real-world application of science, math, engineering, architecture and technology, whereby they will learn about energy as it relates to their own schools and the environmental challenges of the future. The program will engage students in project-based learning activities that promote engineering problem solving skills.

"The Engineering SMArT Detroit program was designed and will be implemented by engineers in the field.  It is an excellent opportunity for our high school students to discover the creativity and great future that engineering and STEM education jobs can provide," said Cheryl Ollila, ESD's Director of Community Outreach.

The Michigan Regional Future City Competition is a nationwide competition that challenges 6th, 7th and 8th grades students to envision a city in the future in which they would like to live. Guided by their teachers and volunteer engineer mentors, students began working in September to develop a computer model, write an essay, build a physical model using engineering and mathematical principles, and then present their creation to professional judges during a daylong competition.

This year's theme challenged students to "Fuel Your Future: Imagine New Ways to Meet Our Energy Needs and Maintain a Healthy Planet." The winning team will go to Washington, DC, in February to participate in the national competition with teams from throughout the country.

More at www.esd.org.