- 4-H animal projects develop strong character, ethics and life skills
Middle and high school students who care for animals as part of UW-Extension 4-H projects gain skills that benefit them for a lifetime — accepting responsibility, communicating effectively, developing relationships, making decisions, organizing their work, setting and achieving goals — all grounded in the strong technical knowledge and values they acquire during their years of participation.
- ACT preparatory course builds confidence of Hmong students planning to take their college entrance exams
Students of Hmong descent who completed an ACT preparation course at UW-Marathon County say the class helped them feel more confident about taking their college entrance examinations. Those with the lowest English and reading scores on simulated tests at the onset of the class were often able to improve their scores significantly on course post-tests. The 18 students who subsequently reported taking the ACT in April 2004 performed better on average than their Hmong peers who received no ACT training.
- ACT Together eases the transition to college for Hmong students and their families
Preparing for post-secondary education can be stressful for any student, but teens of Hmong descent often face even greater pressures. To smooth the way for 29 area Hmong students, UW-La Crosse offered a six-week ACT test strategy course in the spring of 2007. In conjunction with the course, students and their families had opportunities to tour the campus, meet with student services and admissions, and attend a panel discussion about college life. Most students completing the course increased their ACT practice test scores, and they report feeling more interested in and prepared for college. Parents who participated say they better understand the demands of the admissions process and of their integral role in helping their child transition from high school to college.
- Advocates find their voices at the Wisconsin Child and Family Institute
The annual Wisconsin Child and Family Advocacy Institute helps grass-roots community representatives improve the quality of life for Wisconsin children and families. Participants say the institute helps them apply current university research, access the state''s public policy planning process, and network effectively with local, state and federal policymakers to influence legislation and regulations affecting Wisconsin''''s children and families. Several participants have been elected to public office or taken positions with organizations that advocate for children.
- Affordable Housing – Building individual and community capacity for housing low-income families
Inadequate housing leads to family stress, and strains local resources. As low-income households spend greater portions of their income keeping a roof overhead, they forego other basic needs. Through consumer education and housing coalitions, UW-Extension and community partners are building local capacity to create, obtain and sustain safe, adequate, affordable housing.
- Annual conference helps teachers meet the wide range of learning needs among students
Teachers are challenged to meet the wide range of learning needs among students in mixed ability classrooms. To address this issue, an annual conference in La Crosse offers them an opportunity to learn from national experts, network with colleagues, and bring strategies back to their schools that are simple, workable, and effective. In 2006, 74 teachers, curriculum specialists, and gifted and talented coordinators from 29 school districts attended. Most participants who were subsequently interviewed report that the conference led them to change their teaching practices to better suit the individual styles and aptitudes of their students. In particular, teachers have noted improved learning outcomes when they offer students choices within the curriculum.
- Annual early childhood education conference helps parents, teachers and child-care providers raise healthy children
The Early Childhood Education Conference coordinated by University of Wisconsin-Stout's Continuing Education Programs offers comprehensive professional development workshops for more than 2,300 early childhood professionals each year. The program provides updated knowledge in child development, educational strategies, advocacy, curriculum, child guidance, parent education and related family issues in more than 250 seminars and workshops. In addition, participants have the opportunity to network, exchange information, solve problems and revitalize their commitment to the lives of young children. Quality child care is an important partner in helping families, schools and communities raise healthy children.
- Annual training keeps pharmacists up to date on latest advances in caring for patients
Annual conferences by Extension Services in Pharmacy bring together clinical pharmacists from throughout the Midwest to discuss state-of-the-art drug treatments with academic and clinical experts. A 2004 program addressed respiratory pharmacotherapy in order to help the 32 million - and growing - Americans with asthma and other similar chronic respiratory diseases. Pharmacists say the programs build their knowledge and skills and benefit the patients and patients' families they serve.
- Annual youth entrepreneur camp fosters entrepreneurial spirit
An entrepreneurial camp sponsored by the UW-Extension Small Business Development Center on the UW-Madison campus teaches youth how to start a business. The day-camp fosters entrepreneurial spirit by building skills in management, communication, team-building, and business etiquette. Students also learn how to negotiate for materials and recognize business opportunities.
- Apprentice Program gives Milwaukee Latino youth real world work experience
The UW-Milwaukee Apprentice Program gives Latino youth the opportunity to compete for and hold internships in fields that interest them. But the 29 students who participated in the experience in its first year say they learned even more than job skills: every student reports learning about academic opportunities available to them that will help increase their prospects for the future. Moreover, nearly every participant says he or she now feels more confident about applying for college and financial aid. Two students even received scholarships from their internship employers. A diversity program grant from University of Wisconsin-Extension helped make the program possible.
- ARTSBUILD helps southwest Wisconsin artists lay the foundation for entrepreneurial success
Beyond creativity and originality, artists need entrepreneurial know-how to earn a living in their field. A UW-Platteville professional development program designed especially for use in southwest Wisconsin helps participants jumpstart their sales, sharpen their marketing skills, and meet supportive associates and benefactors. Since its 2004 launch, ARTSBUILD’s network has steadily increased to 350 artist members who consistently praise its worth. Growing partnerships between ARTSBUILD and state and local organizations have furthered the visibility of area arts, thus contributing to the health of local economies. Originally funded by a UW-Extension grant, the program has moved progressively towards self-sustainability.
- Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate program addresses a growing need for training care providers to those with special needs
The incidence of an autism spectrum disorders diagnosis is 10 times more likely than it was 10 years ago. Education, health and human services providers who completed a UW-La Crosse/Extension Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program developed skills to help improve communication, social and physical skills in autistic persons. These individuals are better able to provide appropriate care based on currently recommended practices than colleagues who did not enroll in the training.
- Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program Addresses a Growing Need for Training Care Providers to Those with Special Needs
The likelihood of an autism spectrum disorders diagnosis has increased dramatically over the last decade. Education and health and human services providers who completed a UW-LaCrosse/Extension Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program developed skills to help improve communication by those with autism, as well as their social and physical skills. As a result of this training, these professionals are better able to provide appropriate care based on currently recommended practices than are colleagues who did not receive the training.
- Become a Young Entrepreneur (BYE)
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education’s College for Teens Program partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee and Wells Fargo Bank to provide teens from the Boys & Girls Club with a unique, hands-on experience in entrepreneurship. They participated in a program that educated them on the post-secondary path necessary to become a successful business owner. The curriculum for “Become a Yong Entrepreneur” was formulated around materials published by Youngbiz, a nationally based organization whose mission is to empower youth with entrepreneurial, business, and financial skills through innovative education and real-world experience. Students worked in teams to develop and present a business plan.
- Child-care professionals keep up with best practices through annual training
Child-care providers who attended the annual Current Issues in Infant/Toddler Development and Care Conference sponsored by UW-Green Bay Outreach and the UW-Extension said the program increased their understanding of age-appropriate activities to stimulate the development of infants and toddlers, the overweight child, and gender stereotypes. Quality child care helps families, too, by providing a safe, healthy and nurturing learning environment.
- College Credit in the high school classroom benefits students and schools
more than 6300 high school students have gotten a head start on their college degrees. The program provides opportunities for academically qualified students to receive credit for completing coursework that’s likely not available to them in their high schools. In a survey of participants from 2005, 100 percent of respondents reported that their CCIHS experience positively affected their later achievement in college. School districts benefit, too, by receiving university support in their talented and gifted programs.
- Constructive dialog on land use concerns helps farmers weigh their interests with those of their non-farm neighbors
As farm and non-farm populations converge, Wisconsin enacted Livestock Facilities Siting legislation encouraging constructive dialogue among rural neighbors. UW-Extension assessed research-based performance standards for new and expanding livestock operations, and engaged public involvement. In 2005, county educators and community partners presented workshops helping elected officials understand the state law for revising local ordinances. In four of the counties involved, 181 farmers and elected officials developed or modified local livestock facility siting plans or land use policies that complied with local and state regulations.
- Creativity flourishes with 4-H Arts and Communication Program
A new study shows that 4-H Arts and Communication Program participants build strong technical know-how, confidence and self esteem. Younger children use feedback from project leaders and fair judges to improve their work. Experienced youth report they value teaching younger members, working with supportive adults and trying new things — letting their creativity flourish. More than 80 4-H arts and communications programs reached about 19,000 youth in 2006.
- Cultural issues symposium helps white community understand the education and service needs of Native Americans
A gathering of almost 200 persons from across Wisconsin provided a forum for Native Americans and the University of Wisconsin-Superior Center for Continuing Education/Extension to explore and debate issues surrounding racial and cultural sensitivity, to identify divergent views, and to provide guidance in meeting some of the educational and cultural needs of the six Ojibwe tribes in the Superior area. Through discussion and circulation of symposium proceedings, secondary teachers developed new curriculum and Native American educational programs, UW-Superior improved its outreach and admissions policies, social-services agencies identified Native Americans in need of assistance, and several participants increased their advocacy for Native American people within the community and on community boards and agencies.
- Diversity Circles dialogue builds cross-cultural awareness in Fond du Lac
Participants in Fond du Lac County’s Diversity Circles program report an increased understanding of their own and of others'' attitudes about race—and they say they are now better able to communicate with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. The success of the initial groups formed in 2003 has kept the project going with continued circles and action forums. By 2006, 150 adults and 20 public school students had participated in the program. Administered by the UW-Fond du Lac Office of Continuing Education and Extension, the program represents a far-reaching, community-wide effort to promote cross-cultural sensitivity.
- El Centro Empresarial offers bilingual training and resources to strengthen Milwaukee’s Hispanic business community
Since opening its doors in 2004, El Centro Empresarial, the Hispanic Entrepreneurship Center at UW-Milwaukee, has graduated 76 area Latinos from its certificate program, with 24 graduates going on to start their own businesses. The program promotes entrepreneurship in the region’s Hispanic community through bilingual training, counseling, technical assistance, and networking activities. It is the initiative of UW-Milwaukee’s School of Continuing Education, which has teamed up its Small Business Development Center with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin and other community partners.
- English-language training prepares international professionals and students for success in a multicultural world
Professionals and undergraduates who attended UW-Eau Claire Continuing Education's summer Intensive English Program learned English skills and experienced American life, resulting in cross-cultural exchange and understanding. Participants reported that the program improved their English, would have a positive influence on their careers, families and communities, helped them develop a more positive attitude about the United States, and helped them gain a new appreciation and understanding of themselves and the American people and culture.
- EXPLORE program helps migrant children achieve in school
UW-Stevens Point's EXPLORE program helps children of migrant workers in central Wisconsin set learning goals, succeed academically, and explore colleges and careers. Through enrichment activities, academic tutoring, and computer-based English tutorials, students keep up with school work so they can meet academic expectations at their grade level. Elementary and junior high school students are introduced to career choices and taught how higher education can help them achieve occupational goals. In 2005, 57 students participated in the program.
- Extension Response to June 2008 Floods
In June 2008, record rains on saturated soils caused widespread flooding, costing hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. Thirty southern Wisconsin counties were declared disaster areas. Backed by campus specialists, county extension faculty helped their neighbors assess damage and document losses even as floodwaters were rising. They contributed to positive impacts for farmers, families, homeowners, businesses, agencies and communities, from reduced losses, risks, stress and anxiety, to improved local and state agency performance.
- Family caregivers in La Crosse County’s Hmong community come together to discuss challenges and solve problems
In the La Crosse area, local partners are listening and responding to the concerns of Hmong residents who care for sick or aging family members. With sponsorship from the UW-Extension School for Workers and other agencies, Hmong caregivers in the area have established an advocacy and support group to communicate their challenges to each other and to the community. Meanwhile, a program at the local Hmong Community Center offers monthly health and wellness information sessions specific to their needs. These measures occurred in direct response to a health needs assessment and a caregiver summit, both conducted in 2006 and made possible by a grant from the UW-Extension.
- Fire science camps teach youth about safety, careers in emergency services, and the value of a college education
For generations, children have aspired to be fire-fighters and interest has grown in recent years. But most of these potential emergency response professionals aren’t aware of the skills and education they need to qualify for these jobs. UW-Oshkosh’s Office of Continuing Education and Extension offers two popular summer camps that introduce young men and women to emergency response-related careers. An impressive 100% of participants in 2005 say the program gave them a better understanding of their career choices, with 99% reporting improved proficiency in firefighting, teamwork, and leadership skills. The program—which places special emphasis on attracting girls, students of color, and economically disadvantaged youth—also teaches the value of obtaining a post-secondary education.
- Food security education helps lessen hunger among families and children at risk
About 1 in 11 Wisconsin households is at risk of not having enough food, making them food insecure. Severe food insecurity includes hunger. The Wisconsin Nutrition Education Program helps lessen hunger among families at risk, helping adults get the most nutrition for their limited food dollars, and helping develop more free or reduced price School Meal Programs for children.
- Gerontology Certificate Program fulfills a growing need for specialists in the field of aging
A heightened compassion and understanding towards the elderly are some of the benefits students received from UW-La Crosse's Gerontology Certificate Program. These courses meet the continuing education requirements of adults in southwestern Wisconsin who have either a personal or professional interest in the field of aging¿from health care and social workers to educators to primary care givers and others. Along with UW-La Crosse faculty and area professionals, students examine physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual issues confronting the elderly. And as the demand for qualified geriatric workers rises, participants complete professional development requirements and become members of a supportive network of gerontology experts, most of whom report sharing their new knowledge with co-workers.
- Get Checking gives consumers with poor credit histories a chance at financial stability
A pilot program created for people who have no banking privileges helped nearly 1400 Milwaukee County residents open checking accounts between 1998 and 2002. In 2006, the Get Checking program continues to offer personal financial training that enables consumers to use banking services effectively, and eventually to open and maintain their own accounts. UW-Extension Milwaukee County, the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Milwaukee, and three sponsoring financial institutions initiated the program, which has now expanded to serve more than 9,000 consumers in 102 cities nationwide.
- Green Bay area agencies team up to promote school success among Latino and Native American youth
A year-long UW-Green Bay initiative encouraged area Latino, Oneida, and Menominee teens to succeed in school and to plan for their academic futures. The Green Bay School District, the Oneida Youth Educational Services (YES) Program, and the College of Menominee Nation, teamed up to create two distinct programs appropriate to the needs of each student group. As a result, 90 percent of participating Latino youth say they are likely to attend college or technical school after high school, representing a 30 percent increase from student plans before the project. Menominee and Oneida teens were also inspired by the project, and important connections between the university and tribal officials were established that will help teens meet their higher education goals.
- Health career project for Hmong youth addresses a workforce shortage
At the same time, this population shift presents an opportunity. Officials at UW-Stevens Point realized that if newly relocated Hmong youth were recruited to health care jobs, these same youths could later treat their aging community members. Consequently, the Hmong Health Career Exploration project was developed to encourage Hmong teens to consider medical careers. Nineteen Hmong youth participated in the project’s hands-on workshops for a week in the summer of 2006. After completing the program, most indicated an interest in attending college and in pursuing medical training. Follow-up studies show that continued outreach may be necessary to sustain participants’ interest through high school.
- Hearing misdemeanor cases of their peers in Teen Court curbs repeat offenses
In 41 Wisconsin counties, teenagers who paint graffiti or are truant appear before a jury of their peers who "sentence" them to community service, classes, or letters of apology. Marinette County jurors find this such a positive experience that they assign offenders to serve as teen court jurors. Those simply charged a small fine in traditional juvenile court return for later offenses in far greater numbers than those held accountable by their peers
- Leadership Development Institute Fills a Need for Leadership Training in the Green Bay Area
When businesses, non-profits, and governmental organizations in the Green Bay area needed leadership training for their mid-level employees, they turned to UW-Green Bay Outreach and Extension to develop a program tailored to local needs and issues. Participants in UW-Green Bay¿s Leadership Development Program say the professional relationships they developed with program staff, facilitators, and peers were invaluable as the eight-month program groomed them to excel as leaders in their respective organizations. As part of the program, each created a customized leadership action plan that makes the most of his or her individual strengths and best meets the needs of their respective employers.
- Leadership program has personal and community impact in Superior and Douglas County
When citizens get involved, raise their awareness of local issues, and sharpen their leadership skills, their communities reap the rewards. To increase civic participation in the Superior area, UW-Superior's Center for Continuing Education/Extension teamed with the Superior/Douglas County Chamber of Commerce and the Development Association to design a leadership program for local achievers. Since 1992, more than 400 area residents have taken part in the 10-month course. They credit the program with improving their ability to work with others, increasing their community involvement, and expanding their knowledge of the community and of change-making.
- Long Term Care Promotion and Recognition
Through this EDvantage grant, UW-LaCrosse Continuing Education and Extension (UWL CEE) engaged and challenged community leaders and providers to address the state’s critical long term care workforce issues. The Coulee Region Long Term Care Workforce Coalition has a growing membership of 26 long term care providers of services for elders and people with disabilities. Providers have additional tools to recruit and retain young workers and workers over age 55. Workforce development agencies and elected officials are equipped with information and personal accounts of the workforce crisis and its impact, and city and county planners and officials are exploring ways to make neighborhoods and LaCrosse-area communities more aging-friendly. This EDvantage grant embodied the outreach and engagement ideal of the Wisconsin Idea.
- Long-term care initiative leads to improved job satisfaction among direct care workers
In La Crosse and Monroe Counties, supervisors in the long-term care industry are taking part in a sweeping effort to improve their workplace cultures and retain employees. UW-La Crosse’s Continuing Education and Extension logged 105 enrollments in 2006-07 in a new leadership development series designed to improve the management skills of long-term care supervisors. Participants’ employees report that positive changes in their supervisors’ workplace behaviors have led to higher levels of trust, worker satisfaction, and teamwork. A recently formed regional coalition is advancing the effort, too. While continuing to promote supportive supervision of direct care workers, Coulee Region Long Term Care Workforce Coalition advocates for better pay, workplace conditions, and training.
- Master’s in education program offers practicing teachers quality, convenience, and results
Teachers who are earning their master’s degree in education through the UW-La Crosse Learning Communities say the program’s focus on learning from other teachers helps them define and meet their individual and classroom goals. In a 2006 evaluative study, graduates report improvements in their teaching practices, their students’ learning, and their school cultures. In fact, more than 82 percent of respondents say their participation in the program led to an increase in their students’ learning. Most feel this directly relates to the improved confidence they acquired through the program.
- Middle school girls encouraged to pursue math and science careers in Fond du Lac
Young girls often don''t see themselves pursuing math or science-related careers. But that changed for middle school girls who took part in the second annual UW-Fond du Lac Girls + Math + Science = Opportunities conference where they gained confidence in their potential to excel in those subjects. The conference, which since 2005 has tallied an enrollment of 356 area girls, receives vast support from community agencies and organizations. Among the event collaborators both years were a team of middle school girls.
- Municipal Clerks and Treasurers Institute provides training and skills to run local governments efficiently and effectively
Keeping up with thousands of laws and processes is not easy for the clerks and treasurers in Wisconsin's municipalities. The Wisconsin Municipal Clerks and Treasurers Institute sponsored by University of Wisconsin-Green Bay's Office of Outreach and Extension provides training in leadership and administrative, technical and financial management that helps participants work more effectively with village, town, and city boards; communicate with citizens; and establish policies that use local resources wisely. The program also helps participants build a professional network for continued learning and support.
- New techniques in behavior management lead to more productive classrooms
Dealing with disruptive behaviors in the classroom is a challenge for even experienced teachers. University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Office of Continuing Education offers a series of courses throughout southern Wisconsin that focuses on techniques, tools and plans for elementary and secondary teachers to use immediately with disruptive students. Teachers say the new skills help them in dealing with challenging behaviors and depressed students, understanding and dealing with family dynamics, communicating with physicians and family members, and handling student medications. Teachers using their new skills have helped challenging students become more accountable for their actions. These new techniques lead to more productive classrooms, helping both special-needs and non-disruptive students learn in a safe environment.
- Nonprofit Administration Certificate Program provides needed leadership training in Northern Wisconsin
UW-Superior''s Nonprofit Administration Certificate Program helps nonprofit workers improve their job performance and expand their career opportunities, according to program graduates. The curriculum, designed expressly for directors, staff, and volunteers of nonprofit and governmental agencies, offers participants a well-rounded foundation in the skills and needs unique to their organizations. By 2006, 89 participants had received certification through the university’s Center for Continuing Education/Extension.
- Odyssey Project humanities courses inspire underprivileged adults to embrace lifelong learning
Exposure to the humanities can help low-income adults develop skills that help them end a cycle of poverty and encourage future learning. In 2003, UW-Madison introduced the Odyssey Project, an educational program that would offer underprivileged residents the opportunity to receive free college credit for taking humanities courses. By Spring 2006, three classes of Odyssey students had graduated from the program–79 of the 88 students enrolled, or nearly 90% of them. Many Odyssey graduates continue to pursue education at UW-Madison and at other institutions. UW-Madison''s Division of Continuing Studies is one of many university and community partners who have collaborated to make the program possible.
- Parenting education program helps Hmong refugees adjust to American family life
Hmong parents in the La Crosse area are practicing more appropriate disciplinary techniques and communicating more openly with their children since a series of Continuing Education Extension workshops designed to help blend their traditional parenting practices into American culture. Parents have also taken steps to interact more positively with school teachers and administrators. Parents and teens say they appreciate the support, as they adjust to family life in a society vastly different from that of their native Laos. The workshops help families build better relationships with each other and with community institutions, while offering a measure of protection against problems that have plagued Hmong children in the United States, such as gang membership, delinquency, and drug use.
- Partnership training helps social workers provide services for the developmentally disabled in northern Wisconsin
Developmentally disabled adults integrated into the community and their families rely on knowledgeable case workers who are well versed in up-to-date information to help them successfully live more independently. In the past few years, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Continuing Education Community-Based Service Training Partnership (CBSTP) for Adults program has provided more than 1,300 professionals with updated knowledge on current research and practice. The trainings improve the case workers' job performance and consequently benefit the clients they serve. And, because participants follow up with peer training, programs reach beyond the participants and add to the knowledge base of other professionals.
- Poverty training increases teacher awareness and builds opportunities for Fond du Lac children
To respond to a local poverty crisis, the Fond du Lac School District-in partnership with the UW-Fond du Lac Continuing Education Department-offers a Framework for Understanding Poverty in-service to all district employees. Developed by scholar Ruby Payne, the nationally regarded training has inspired teachers and staff from both institutions to develop a series of community projects, all aimed at giving underprivileged children their best chance at academic success. Faculty and staff say the workshop profoundly impacted their teaching and their attitudes towards their students. These programs enhance students' confidence, thus increasing the likelihood that they will pursue an educational degree and perhaps break the cycle of poverty in which they have become trapped.
- Professional training gives teachers tools to help special needs students further their social development
Meeting the learning goals of an entire class is a challenge for even experienced teachers, especially as the numbers of mainstreamed special needs students continue to rise. University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Office of Continuing Education courses address these concerns for K-12 teachers who work with autistic and/or behaviorally challenged children. Teachers say the new skills help them in empathizing with and developing expectations for their special needs students, averting disruptive behaviors, teaching students individual responsibility and better decision-making, and involving family members in positive ways. The techniques, tools, and strategies they adopt lead to more productive classrooms, allowing all students to learn in a safe environment.
- Program teaches healthcare professionals to make better business decisions
Forty-five healthcare specialists in western Wisconsin received healthcare management certification through the UW-La Crosse’s Office of Continuing Studies in 2005. The new program focused on the business management aspects of healthcare, to meet the training needs of regional hospital administrators and employees. Many of the participants claim they are managing their departments more efficiently after completing the certificate program. For the convenience of the students, classes originated from UW-La Crosse’s Health Science Center and were transmitted via the TeleHealth video network to several sites in western Wisconsin.
- RNs earn their baccalaureate degree @ home
Ten years after launching its first online class, the BSN@HOME program has awarded baccalaureate degrees to 445 registered nurses. Participants choose the program—offered specifically for Wisconsin nurses through the combined resources of five University of Wisconsin nursing schools—because they like the flexibility it affords them. Learning online allows them to get their degrees without disrupting their work or family lives. Furthermore, graduates of BSN@HOME say the program prepares them to advance in their careers. Many alumnae have either completed, begun or plan to enroll in a graduate nursing program.
- Rock County youth, S.T.E.M. program sows the seeds of interest in science and math careers
In today’s technology-driven marketplace, institutions of higher education need to attract students to careers in mathematics and the sciences. A UW-Rock County workshop held in 2006 sparked area middle school students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math (or S.T.E.M.). As an early step towards recruiting youth to the fields, eighty-two percent of participating students said they would consider pursuing a career in math or science; compared to only 45 percent of those surveyed prior to the event. A UW-Extension grant enabled S.T.E.M. administrators to make a special effort to enroll students of color and economically disadvantaged students, two groups typically under-represented in advanced math and science courses. Partnerships developed through the grant have helped to expand the program and broaden its impact.
- School of the Arts boosts arts programming and tourism in Rhinelander
Rhinelander''s School of the Arts has brought art to the people—and people to the arts—for more than 40 years. An annual grassroots learning program administered by UW-Madison Extension, School of the Arts receives the consistent and overwhelming support of Rhinelander residents and businesspeople, who recognize the economic, educational, and cultural benefits the week-long event brings their community. In July 2007, more than 300 participants came from every corner of Wisconsin—as well as from nine Midwestern states—to study visual arts, music, photography, drama, writing, movement, and computer arts from regional experts.
- Self-Sufficiency Program prepares low-income parents for successful college work
UW-La Crosse's Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP) is a free service for low-income adults who want to learn how to succeed in college. SSP curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, but it also aims to boost the self-confidence of its participants as they prepare to enroll in degree programs. The SSP team recognizes that obtaining a bachelor's degree can greatly improve the economic prospects of low-income citizens, which in turn benefits workers' families and entire communities. In 2004-2005, six individuals who completed the Self-Sufficiency Program sought and gained admission to UW-La Crosse for fall 2005.
- Social workers in northeastern Wisconsin meet certification requirements while learning how to better support their clients
A 1999 change in certification policy created a need for increased professional development opportunities for Wisconsin social workers. Since then, a workshop series in northeastern Wisconsin that was designed to fulfill this new demand has logged more than 5000 enrollments. Social workers who attended one recent workshop on women and alcohol say the program not only met their training requirements but also helped them to support their clients. The ongoing series is a collaborative effort between the social work and outreach departments at the UW-Oshkosh and the UW-Green Bay.
- Special courses help technical college instructors complete university degrees
A partnership between the University of Wisconsin-Stout and Vocational, Technical and Adult Education degree programs offered at Milwaukee and Appleton provides accessible and convenient professional development opportunities for technical program graduates, expands access to higher education, and removes obstacles to participation while contributing to quality lifelong learning. UW-Stout's 2+2 degree program and services bridge the transition gap between the two-year and four-year degree programs in Wisconsin. A two-year sequence of professional core courses for technical college instructors who have an associate degree helps instructors receive a bachelor's degree in Vocational, Technical and Adult Education (BS VTAE) and also helps them meet Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) teacher certification requirements and Northcentral Association accreditation.
- Substance abuse certificate helps human-service professionals work more effectively with patients and in the workplace
A training program in substance abuse provides social workers, psychologists, nurses, teachers, clergy, prison staff and other human-service providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and work more effectively with substance abusers and their families. Several persons made changes in workplace policy as a result of the training. Others gained confidence and learned to appreciate cultural-sensitivity concerns.
- Summit poises African American trade unionists for leadership roles in their workplaces and communit
More than 120 African Americans from the Milwaukee area attended conferences in 2004 and 2005 to discuss issues facing African American workers and their communities. Participants, who have pledged to continue the annual event, particularly value the opportunity for African American community and trade union leaders to meet, identify needs and goals, and begin to build a supportive network. Some participants even report that the summit experience inspired them to run for public office. The event received funding from UW-Extension''s Diversity Program Development Initiative program.
- Training in distance-learning technology leads to success for K-12 classrooms
Wisconsin school districts rely on distance-learning technology to provide courses to students and training to teachers. The University of Wisconsin-Extension Instructional Communication System (ICS) provides two-day summer training for K-12 teachers and support staff that shows them how to adapt course materials, use equipment, and follow distance-education issues in order to use this technology more appropriately. ICS has also lent technological and pedagogical support to the new Wisconsin Center for Music Education. The Center—of particular value as school arts programs undergo repeated cuts—offers both on site and online programming to music educators, students, and community members throughout the state.
- Training partnership improves youth and family services in Superior community
Northwood Children's Services in northern Wisconsin is a national leader in training social services providers and educators who work with youth in need of special services. By teaming up with UW-Superior's Center for Continuing Education/Extension, they've provided university level training for 68 persons, resulting in a more qualified and competent workforce that is more responsive to the special needs of youth in the social services system. The Youth and Family Services Certificate program gives professionals comprehensive knowledge and skills to use when working with children and their families. Participants have been able to use the information in their jobs, some have made changes in policy or decision-making, and many have received increased responsibilities or promotions as a result of their training.
- Training program for nonprofit managers develops networking, improves planned giving coordination
Non-profit organizations play an important role in communities of all sizes across Wisconsin. In Sauk County, UW-Extension combined technology and local networking to create a learning community of the area’s nonprofit leaders, along with nationally respected faculty. Participants say the convenient, affordable programming taught them strategies for moving their organizations forward and developed networks that help organizations work more collaboratively, rather than competitively, to address local needs.
- Understanding generational differences in the workplace, community and home develops dynamic teamwork and common values
Hearing employers voice frustrations, UW-Extension Washburn County developed Communicating Across the Generations team-building workshops to train educators, managers and employees of all ages, cultures, socioeconomic and immigrant status through partners in state and tribal government, public and trade schools, communities and business. Those learning to blend the creative energies and work styles of four generations are creating dynamic teams.
- UW-Milwaukee's Career Paths Program is an early step to a college degree for participating Latino youth
Latino teens participating in a UW-Milwaukee College for Teens program say the experience influenced their outlook for the future. They report giving more consideration to their vocational options and say they are more likely to think about setting academic goals that will help them enter into a chosen field. The UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education partnered with the Milwaukee Latino Community Center for the week-long event.
- Webconferencing helps Wisconsin students and organizations communicate more efficiently and effectively
Wisconsin''s business, educational, governmental, and non-profit organizations are turning to web-based meetings for their power to enhance the exchange of ideas, expand educational opportunities, and improve communication among staff and constituents. Users also value the travel, time, and cost savings that webconferencing offers them. Web conference participants served by UW-Extension’s Instructional Communications Systems enthusiastically endorse the program’s value to their organizations, with 96% recently reporting that its webconferencing tool, WisLine Web, helps them meet their organizations'' communication needs.
- While bettering their own lives, 4-H youth contribute to Wisconsin communities
For more than a century, Wisconsin has been a leader in 4-H youth development. Statewide, the program touches the lives of 37,000 4-H club members, who benefit from its leadership training and community-building experiences. Another 85,000 participate each year in special interest and school enrichment programs organized by 4-H, while 7,000 attend multi-day programs at Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center in Wisconsin Dells. Through these programs, youth participants gain access to learning opportunities, educational materials, and leadership training that they are not likely to obtain elsewhere. In turn, 4-H youth give back to their communities. For example, Wisconsin 4-H clubs conduct five community service projects on average annually.
- Wisconsin Bookworms™ brings the joy of reading to young children
Reading to preschoolers kindles their enthusiasm for learning. To ensure this experience statewide, a UW-Extension partnership, Wisconsin Bookworms™, provides free books annually to more than 6,000 children who may not otherwise have their own. Trained volunteers prepare book activities in English and Spanish, distribute book sets and read to the children. Parents report reading more with their children, talking about books and visiting the public library more often.
- Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey and Basin Education Program: Building local capacity for long-term emergency preparedness
Why were Spring Green area homes and businesses still submerged months after floodwaters receded from most of southern Wisconsin? A Cooperative Extension water basin educator and geological survey scientists teamed up to merge the results of a 20-year geology study with a new groundwater flow model to educate residents about why the area flooded, and why the flooding persisted. Understanding that a high water table and low topography compounded effects of record rainfall, residents and officials could then move forward.
- Wisconsin Public Radio listeners tap scientific knowledge to solve household problems
Wisconsin Public Radio's call-in program "Conversations with Larry Meiller" connects scientifically trained scholars with the general public for interaction and learning. Through the program, university experts provide information and advice to a large listening audience. Listeners say the advice is useful, credible and understandable, and helps them solve problems in their homes, gardens and communities. The scientists who are expert guests do a good job of explaining science to laypersons, helping them feel better prepared, more informed and more confident in taking action to solve their problems.
- Wisconsin Regional Teen Institute teaches youth civic responsibility
Research shows that the more young people become engaged in their communities, the more everyone benefits. Wisconsin Regional Teen Institute (WRTI) brings teams of youth from across the state together, training and motivating them to serve as local agents of change. Teams work cooperatively to determine what their own communities most need and then create action plans specific to those needs. Eighty-four percent of the teams trained in 2003 completed plans that addressed school climate, substance abuse or other important issues. Ultimately, participants not only acquire the skills essential to working with others, they also learn how to succeed in their individual lives.
- Wisconsin Unions Address Diversity and Succession Planning
Impact Summary: Sixty-seven active union members have engaged in focus groups to address the need for diversity and succession planning in their unions. These participants, along with members of their unions and institutions which supported the project, have worked together to identify and recruit potential new union leaders and mentors.
- Workforce Diversity Collaborative
The Workforce Diversity WorkGroup provided opportunities for learning and networking, as well as collaborative projects for area employers as they seek to recruit, retain, and manage a diverse workforce. The collaborative included major employers in the LaCrosse area, including the hospital systems, county government, three higher education institutions, and the public school system, along with the NAACP, the workforce development agency (Workforce Connections), and the diversity educators network. The information sessions, educational forums, relationships, and projects led to present efforts to create a staffed diversity council of area employers and organizations.
- “On Your Health” radio show brings sound medical advice to listeners’ homes
Physician, medical school professor, and author Zorba Paster makes more than 130,000 house calls each week—via his nationally syndicated call-in radio program “On Your Health.” Relying on up-to-the-minute medical research, Dr. Paster teaches his listeners how to better prevent and manage their health conditions, with an emphasis on maintaining health. A growing listening audience regularly tunes in to the program, broadcast on more than 80 public radio stations across the nation. “On Your Health” is a production of Wisconsin Public Radio, as a service of the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board and the University of Wisconsin-Extension.
