In Unit 5’s newest high school course, Innovative Entrepreneurs, the rivalry between NCHS and NCWHS has been put aside. 24 seniors, 12 from each school, are embarking in a new type of class, traveling to various businesses during first and second period.

 Unit 5’s Director of Secondary Education, Laura O’Donnell, said of the new class, “This course will provide students the opportunity to learn from local business professionals.  Additionally, the students will be immersed in our local business climate and experience what the community has to offer with regards to business/career opportunities. This authentic experience is a way to bring the curriculum to life and truly engage students in the entrepreneurial climate that exists in the Bloomington-Normal area.”

After researching similar programs in neighboring counties, such as Logan county which  a class entitled CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities), Unit 5 decided to create its own program. Dr. Doan Winkel a professor of Entrepreneurship at ISU, assisted in the creation of the class. Winkel wanted to get involved mostly due to the fact that he recognizes the importance, and partly because he hopes to see a change in the education system by the time his son is high school age.

Local business woman, NCWHS art teacher and Innovative Entrepreneur instructor, Julie Hinman, is in complete agreement with Winkel. “I saw the class as a way to change the way we prepare students for post secondary opportunities. Interacting with business owners as hosts and mentors give students an educational experience like no other”, said Hinman.

 She interacts with her students from 7:15 until 9:05, who also see the potential of this class. These students applied and interviewed for the class last year; undergoing review by various teachers, local entrepreneurs, and Winkel. NCWHS senior, Brennan Auth explained his motivation, saying, “I took the class because I’m interested in starting my own business and I am super excited to meet local entrepreneurs!”

 Thus far, the young entrepreneurs have spoken to Dr. Winkel, Dr. Rossi and Dr. Amble (local doctors), Tom and Vicki Tilton (the Monroe Center, Fox and Hounds), and various State Farm employees. In the future, the entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to work with over 50 local business people.

 Current Unit 5 high school juniors who are looking for an exciting class alternative for their senior year, should talk to their guidance counselor and reference the “Course to Career Guide” at  http://www.unit5.org/cms/lib03/IL01905100/Centricity/Domain/853/CDB%202015-2016%20-%20FINAL%20COLOR%20-%2012-1-2014.pdf for more information.