Frontier Schools Joins National Network of Experiential Learning Programs
The Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) Network is a nationally-recognized model for profession-based education and experiential learning. Frontier Schools, a tuition-free K-12 public charter school system sponsored by the University of Missouri – Kansas City, focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) serving a diverse population of students in Kansas City and its surrounding area. CAPS programming is currently available to students at Frontier STEM High School.
By joining the CAPS Network, the Frontier Schools System is now partnered with an international consortium of 49 CAPS affiliate programs in 99 school districts across 13 states in the US and India. This growing network of CAPS affiliate programs continues to develop strong business and education partnerships through collaborations with companies of all sizes, higher education institutions, and community partners.
“It’s an honor to welcome the Frontier’s students, educators, and strategic partners into the CAPS family,” said CAPS Network Coordinator Gregg Brown. “There’s tremendous value in expanding our network to include this vibrant and innovative learning community.”
As part of Frontier’s expanded STEM offerings for students, the school system is fundraising capital to build a 2,600-square-foot Innovation Lab annex at Frontier STEM High School. The plans include a makerspace for students “makers” and designers dedicated to experiential learning with industry-standard equipment and tools.
Students will be able to apply STEM theory to practice preparing them for college pathways and careers in specialties such as data management, manufacturing, clinical research, biotechnology and other STEM-related fields locally and regionally.
“We’re excited to be a part of the CAPS Network to collaborate around best practices in STEM education and to open the door to real business experiences for our students, said Frontier Schools District Instructional Coach and High School Science STEM Coordinator Azat Ovezov. “Dedicating a space for professional skill development and project-based learning experiences will ensure that our students can are prepared to solve authentic real-world challenges.”
Frontier Schools’ goal is to raise $1 millon for construction and equipping the Innovation Lab. The school contributed $200,000 of its funds for the Lab. Based on fundraising benchmarks, the project is slated to begin construction in either late 2019 or early 2020. Frontier Schools is accepting tax-deductible donations for the Innovation Lab at https://www.kcfsi.org/donation/index.html.
Based in Overland Park, Kansas, and launched in Blue Valley School District, the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) represents the collaboration of education, business and the community. The CAPS model represents a powerful example of the future of education, centering on students’ interests with a unique, immersive experience, resulting in highly-skilled, adaptable, global innovators and leaders. The program is guided by five core principles: Profession-based Learning, Responsiveness, Self-Discovery and Exploration, Professional Skills Development, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset. For more information about CAPS Network opportunities for students, educators and business partners, visit yourcapsnetwork.org.