SANFORD, N.C. With school teachers from around the world already traveling to Sanford for training in a technology-based curriculum at Paxton/Patterson's new Global Learning Center, CEO Roger Davis visits Sanford next month to provide an overview of his company's venture.
In "The Future of Education is Here," Davis explains why combining core academics with real-world scenarios better prepares students for the demands of a 21st century workforce. He also discusses his company's Global Learning Center based at Southern Lee High School what it means locally for students, the economy and even tourism.
Davis will provide his analysis at the Committee of 100's quarterly luncheon on Feb. 11. Scheduled for noon at Chef Paul's in Sanford, the event is open to the public.
"Education is changing," says Jeff Moss, superintendent of the Lee County Schools. "With technology and productivity becoming the path to success, all students need a firm foundation in science and math, broad knowledge, an adaptable set of skills, and the ability to learn and work independently.
"That's exactly what this curriculum offers our students."
Many local students have already used the curriculum to explore a broad range of subjects from industrial engineering topics, like robotics, to more artistic pursuits, including digital music. Not long ago, East Lee Middle School became North Carolina's first STEM academy, adopting the curriculum featuring science, technology, engineering and math.
Davis has worked for three decades with Paxton/Patterson, a company that has evolved over its long history from providing tools and materials for industrial education to developing its comprehensive line of learning systems.
Before joining Paxton/Patterson, he was employed by Touche Ross and Co. (now Deloitte and Touche), providing audit and accounting services for four major clients, recruiting new employees on college campuses and teaching in the company's national training programs.
A Certified Public Accountant and University of Kansas alumnus, Davis has served on his alma mater's School of Business advisory board for nearly two decades, including three years as the board chairman.
His visit doesn't end with the luncheon. Davis will be one of three special guests at the Global Learning Center's grand opening later that evening, a public event at SanLee Middle School that includes a ribbon cutting and tours of the school's STEM labs.
Other special guests expected to attend are Bill Harrison, chairman of the State Board of Education, and June Atkinson, state Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The grand opening, offered by the Lee County Schools and Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce as a "Business After Hours" reception, runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Anyone wanting to attend should RSVP to the chamber at 919.775.7341 or frontdesk@sanford-nc.com.
"The Future of Education is Here" and all Committee of 100 luncheons are open to the public. The cost, including lunch, is $15 per person for the general public and $10 per person for members. For reservations or information, contact Jane Haber at the Lee County Economic Development Corp., 919-774-8439 or info@lcedc.com.
The Committee of 100 is an organization of business leaders committing time, energy and resources to enhance the economic well-being of Lee County and its citizens. Corporate and individual members assist the Lee County Economic Development Corp. by establishing venture capital projects to expand local industry, helping to promote economic growth and enhancing working relationships among government, business and the community.