Bicentennial STEM Fusion campaign to award 25 Illinois schools unique technology curriculum

CHICAGO (Apr. 3, 2018) —  The Governor's Office of the Illinois Bicentennial is awarding 25 schools across the state a 3-year technology program as a signature legacy project of the Bicentennial Celebration.  The highly renowned IMSA Fusion program presents a unique curriculum for middle school teachers to inspire 4th through 8th graders to study math and science and pursue careers in technology, medicine, education and business. The effort is a partnership with the Illinois Math and Science Academy.

The application deadline for schools is April 13.  Applications can be submitted through http://bit.ly/FusionBicentennial.

Wintrust and Abbott are the presenting sponsors.  All Bicentennial Office programs are privately financed.  Additional funding for this campaign is provided by Boeing, Ingredion and Motorola.

IMSA Fusion is a teacher professional development and student STEM enrichment program.  IMSA Fusion places a special emphasis on students who are historically underrepresented in those areas. 

A five person school selection committee will review the applications.  The committee includes:  Emily Bastedo, Senior Advisor to the Governor; Dr. Kevin Pitts, Vice Provost of Undergraduate Education- University of Illinois; Ross Hemphill, Board Member- IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education; Jenna Daugherty, Divisional Vice President of Global Social Responsibility- Abbott; and Susana Meza, Vice President, Marketing- Wintrust Financial.

The schools will be chosen based on serving predominately underrepresented populations, commitments to embedding IMSA Fusion into the regular school day as an elective/encore/CTE course and requiring teachers to undertake 5 full days of professional development, and a sustainability plan to continue the IMSA Fusion after the 3-year award expires.

ABOUT ILLINOIS BICENTENNIAL

On Dec. 3, 1818, Illinois became the 21st state in the union. The Illinois Bicentennial is a yearlong celebration of what has been BORN, BUILT & GROWN in the state and a reminder of why we are #IllinoisProud.  Citizens are encouraged to participate in the celebration by visiting www.illinois200.com.