In Oregon our high school graduation rate has been improving, but it is still one of the lowest in the nation. I believe it's a heart problem more than a head problem. Let's do our part to inspire lifelong learners and positive change!
See the data at: http://www.ode.state.or.us/.../summarycohortgrad1415.pdf
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I am now an elementary school teacher specializing in science education and I can tell you many Oregon schools are hurting for well-equipped science classrooms. Teachers often lack the confidence to lead messy labs with real world applications. We're passionate about changing this in whatever way we can. My grandmother had this favorite song, “Brighten the Corner Where You Are” and I have taken it to heart. Roxanna and I believe it is our purpose to do what we can for others in this world.
To make this dream a reality we need your help. We are not new to this and have been traveling to schools presenting at assemblies and science nights for four years already. We personally own around $25,000 worth of science teaching equipment at this time. This accounts for around 60 learning stations and class activities. However we’ve been borrowing a small trailer and a truck to make these experimental school visits. We have been serving as educators for a kids camp for the past 10 years and do not have the money to purchase a trailer large enough to store Glen's Gizmos and a truck to pull it. We also wish to purchase all of the 200+ Gizmo Boards gathering dust from Glen Mills to continue his legacy.
We plan on running a KickStarter fundraiser online to crowd fund the business and build additional connections across Oregon. Help us connect with communities across the state and bring us to your community!
Newberg is one of those small towns growing so fast it might be easy to forget the people and places which make the community so exceptional. I was born in Newberg and attended George Fox University where I was trained as a teacher. Now I am a science specialist and co-direct many of the outdoor schools that Newberg students attend. I know Newberg well. My father Clyde raised us to have an interest and genuine appreciation for local history and the people who make our community great.
I am an elementary school teacher and I believe our world of smartphones and touch screens is desperately in need of Glen Mills’ continued legacy. Students of all ages can not learn from touch screens alone. New research is being produced showing the dangers of exposing young children to excessive screen time. Kids need hands-on and tactile activities to develop as healthy and prosperous community members. I have seen adults benefit from this critical thinking as well. One of Glen’s tricks is making learning so engaging and fun students of all ages forget they are doing hard work.
As far as Glen can remember he has been taking his Gismos to the Newberg Old Fashioned Festival and the Oregon State Fair for more than 20 years. When did you first see his Gismos or meet Glen? Grandparents have now benefited from his life’s work as have their children and grandchildren.
Thanks for joining us on this adventure. Have you been wondering why we are calling our business Glen's Gizmos? At first glance the name may not make much sense. We are excited to share our vision for starting Glen's Gizmos and introducing you to Glen and his "Hands-on-Gismos" legacy in the coming weeks. A legacy Roxanna and I hope to build upon as we seek new ways to equip Oregon teachers and inspire students to STEAM ahead. Check out Glen's Gizmos new banner design. We will be using these retractable banner stands at Gizmo Events. We just ordered these and will post an update once they arrive. Thanks for support us!
Roxanna and I have been preparing for the fundraiser this September. We just ordered our first shirts with the new logo and plan on posting a picture when they arrive. ~Joel
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Inspiring students to STEAM ahead.
February 2020
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