TESTIMONIALS

9/28/2022

To Whom It May Concern,

I would just like to take the time to describe a recent morning in my 8th and 7th grade Technology classes at Ledford Middle School.  Mr. Joel Leonard of Makesboro USA visited our classes and guided my students on a technological adventure that…in my opinion….ALL students should have the opportunity to experience. Through several hands-on, project based learning challenges, the students “accidentally” gained some tech knowledge and career information while having a blast.  Even this seasoned teacher had some fun! The next day, the majority of my tech students eagerly asked if and when Mr. Leonard was coming back.  Unfortunately, I could not give them a solid answer.

Wouldn’t it be great to have students experience this type of learning and display this type of attitude much more often within their school lives? I think the answer is obvious.  In closing, please help us educators make this happen on a more frequent basis.  We need to find the funding that will allow Mr. Leonard to work his “magic” in as many schools and classrooms as absolutely possible.  These experience can do so much in preparing our children to face the working world that lies ahead of them.

Sincerely,

Mr. Jeff Teague

                                           C.T.E. Teacher

    Ledford Middle School

10/13/2022

To Whom It May Concern,

Joel Leonard from Makesboro USA came to visit my class today to get the kids excited and motivated to learn about CTE.  He discussed Mechanical, Civil, and Forensic Engineering, then he involved the students in a hands-on activity related to these careers.  He assigned jobs as the students walked in the classroom.  He explained that they had the materials on their desks to protect an egg from being smashed by a giant hammer.  Building the protective devices was an example of Civil Engineering.  Using the hammer was an example of Mechanical Engineering.  He had students check to see if the egg was smashed or not, which was an example of Forensic Engineering.     

He had a discussion about jobs coming to NC and how they should take certain classes because there are programs that allow them to be apprentices, which could offer wonderful job opportunities.  He also introduced them to and let them use a infrared thermal gun and a long range acoustic device.  

The kids loved it!  They were engaged, motivated, and kept asking when he was going to come back.  He was engaged with the kids the whole time.  I truly enjoyed seeing them so excited.  I think it would be great if they could have more of these experiences.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Amanda Coppley

                                           C.T.E. Teacher

North Davidson Middle School