CCED Partners with Local Educator to Inspire Future Clean Energy Leaders

This summer the Clayton County Energy District (CCED) is dedicating resources to focus on the next generation of county residents through the Iowa STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Teacher Externship Program. This program, an initiative of the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, matches educators with local businesses and organizations in STEM-related fields across the state. By stepping into the workplace and seeing STEM in action, teachers create stronger links between what students learn in school and the skills needed in today’s workforce.

	In partnership with the Iowa STEM Teacher Externship program the CCED has welcomed Madyson Larson, a 6th and 7th grade science teacher from MFL MarMac Community School District. Working closely with CCED Coordinator Kelsi Davis she will learn more about the energy district’s work and apply this experience to her classroom curriculum. Madyson will spend six weeks working with CCED to gain hands-on experience connecting classroom learning to real-world applications. The goal is to bring fresh insight, relevance, and career-focused learning opportunities back to students in the upcoming school year. Madyson is looking forward to using this experience to help students see the broader impact of science and the many possibilities it can open for their futures.
“Creating connections between what we teach and how it’s used in the real world has always been a priority for me as a science teacher. My goal is to take what I learn and bring it back to my students—so they can see that what we’re doing in the classroom connects to future jobs, problem-solving, and the world around them.” –Madyson Larson

A large portion of the Clayton County Energy District (CCED) mission strives to facilitate an inclusive clean energy transition. A truly inclusive transition for all county residents must involve perspective from some of our youngest residents as well as established, life-long residents. Incorporating energy educational opportunities from elementary into high school allows students to think deeper about where they receive this everyday necessity. It also introduces new innovative ideas and potential career trajectories in a rapidly growing industry. As the clean energy transition continues to expand, the demand for renewable technologies grows. This expanding market creates an opportunity for increased rural business, providing incentives for graduates to pursue training and enter the local workforce. More clean energy providers in Clayton County strengthens the economy and the technology offerings save residents money by reducing household energy bills. A true win-win!