Engineering Innovation for the Future
Academic Innovation is not just a theme for the Appalachian State GEAR UP Partnership, it is the philosophy in which they guide their practice and relationships with stakeholders. Likewise, innovation comes in many forms and is cultivated through persistence, dedication, and open sharing of perspectives, stories, and vision. The building of these relationships is essential in the process and success of the federal grant outcomes.
The Academic Innovation Conference, held annually in the summer, brings together superintendents, district directors, teachers, counselors, coaches/specialists, and partners to collaborate and network with the shared vision of building effective and inclusive school environments that foster innovation and exploration for all students, families, and communities.
Save the Date
June 10th - 11th 2025
Appalachian State University
Conference Benefits
- Travel Reimbursement from your district coordinators*
- Attendance Stipends*
- Teachers are eligible to earn up to 2.5 CEU's*
- Opportunities to win door prizes daily
- Interactions with professional vendors and higher education partners
- Engagement with innovative colleagues from across WNC
- Time to talk and plan with your district coordinators
- Space to discuss challenges and victories with innovation you have experienced
*Reimbursements, Stipends, and CEUs are relative to your district.
Exploring the Global Impact of Innovation Outside Our Own Walls
Approximately one hundred forty educators and advocates united at the Reich College of Education, representing the Appalachian State GEAR UP Partnership Grant’s ten local education agency cohort districts, four institutes of higher education, third-party organizations, and other fellow partners and educators, all came with the mindset of learning from one another. Focused on building necessary connections with fellow innovative thinkers to spark change in the landscape of western North Carolina schools, the Academic Innovation Conference (AIC) calls to action the next step in our state’s approach to public education....