• NWTC Students Prepare for College Wednesday, January 25, 2012

  During the past two weeks, we have been featuring programs specific to the unique learners at the Northwest Tech Center (NWTC).

  Greta Palmberg is an instructor at NWTC. Because she knows the challenges of being “college ready” for her students, Greta has spent several years honing the process for this transitioning population.

  Using Minnesota’s e-folio as the tool, students are compiling their individual portfolios. This online program provides organizational tips and portfolio ideas. See NWTC class projects.

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• Math Initiative is at Northwest Tech Center Wednesday, January 25, 2012

  Kris Johnson is one of three district instructors pursuing math licensure through a special math initiative in the District.

  Kris is applying his new learning with math students in classes at Northwest Tech Center. Every student in class was engaged in the learning and enthusiasm for problem solving was evident using Smart Board activities. To visit their class, click here.

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• Welcome to Northwest Tech Center Wednesday, January 25, 2012

  During the next week, Northwest Tech Center (NWTC) will be featured in three stories. NWTC is a site that houses several specialized transition programs for students ages 18-21 including VECTOR-Basic, VECTOR-Low Incidence, and InVEST. Other programs include InVEST and VENTURE.  

  Scott Wright’s class on College Knowledge was the first stop.  Each student creates a college plan in a unique electronic format.  The students research a chosen field of study, search for best college matches, and explore other aspects of attending that school including costs and supports for students with disabilities. Students made presentations about their findings using the classroom Smart Board™.  See the impressive presentations.

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• Tom Shultz Receives IFMA Award Thursday, January 19, 2012

  Our District 287 Director of Facilities, Tom Shultz, has been named “Facility Practitioner of the Year” by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

  Prior to the Thursday evening award presentation, Tom was unaware of his nomination. (See event photo) Since then, many of our 800 staff have been congratulating Tom. This is a reflection of his excellent work across District 287.

  Superintendent Sandy Lewandowski has been leading our District as we build, combine and renovate the many facilities we have for our unique learners. During the past few years, Tom has been instrumental is preparing sites for students and staff, and building the new North Education Center (NEC).   (more)

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  This Fall, more than 400 students will attend classes at the new NEC.

  "The same year that we broke ground for the new NEC, Tom was relocating more than 65% of our students,” said Sandy when talking with the administrative team. “Under Tom’s leadership, the equipment was moving dirt at the NEC site while our staff and moving trucks were relocating classrooms, nurses’ offices and equipment throughout the district. Thanks to Tom, everyone was ready to start school in September," Sandy added. “By the way, the NEC is ahead of schedule and on budget.”

  Dr. Colleen Baumtrog is Executive Director for Administrative Services and works with Tom here at District 287. She has observed his outstanding project management techniques that includes people skills and budgeting.

  "Tom is simply the best and his award is so well deserved,” Colleen said this week. “Tom’s contributions are so important as our facilities are significantly upgraded and changed forever. This has been led by Tom as he defined the unique needs of our students and staff.”

  Behind the scenes, a video was prepared by the IFMA and was played during the awards ceremony. The video includes Tom's co-workers and industry peers applauding him for his many contributions. Click here to watch.

  Congratulations Tom Shultz, Director of Facilities!

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