New Tech Network Announces Opening of First Schools in Arkansas

New Tech Network (NTN) announced the opening of its first schools in Arkansas – Cross County High School in Cherry Valley west of Memphis and Lincoln Consolidated High School in Washington County near Fayetteville.

The Arkansas New Tech schools are part of a statewide STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) pilot program for high school students called STEM Works, recently announced by Governor Mike Beebe. Cross County and Lincoln Consolidated high schools are the first schools in the state to adopt the New Tech model. The goal of STEM Works is to open eight additional high schools by the start of the 2012 school year. School districts and charter schools are invited to an informational meeting hosted by Arkansas Commissioner of Education Tom Kimbrell to be held Wednesday, August 31.

Cross County High School opened on August 4 with grades 7 through 9.

Matt McClure, Superintendent of the Cross County School District, is passionate about preparing students for life beyond high school. “According to the US Department of Education, students will have 10-14 careers by the time they are 35,” said McClure. “Our job is not to prepare them for one single career or job. They need skills that will translate to a variety of jobs.” The New Tech education model fits perfectly with this goal. “Students need communication and collaboration skills along with problem solving to succeed in today’s global economy,” added McClure.

Lydia Dobyns, New Tech Network President, recently visited Arkansas and was eager for the opening of the two schools. “We have worked with Superintendent McClure and Superintendent Holman and their dedicated teachers and administrators in the training and the planning process to be ready for students. We are excited to begin this exhilarating journey in Arkansas and look forward to significant student successes.”