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During the week of August 5th, 24 West Haven High School students participated in the National Science Foundation-sponsored CICSTART program. CICSTART is a program designed to build career interest in computer science through advanced real-world technology projects.

Students traveled to Gateway Community College each day to participate in the program.  The goal of this Program was to provide students with a concise and focused laboratory-based program with a structured approach to basic engineering, teamwork, interpersonal, and technical writing skills. Westie students honed their technical and professional skills while taking personal responsibility for their contributions and communications for weekly team projects.

Mr. John Birch, Founder and President of the Birch Group, LLC., a national full-service organizational talent-optimization consulting company, provided students with a 360° feedback evaluation which included a DiSC® personal assessment tool and emotional intelligence training.  DiSC® is a personal assessment tool used by more than one million people every year to help improve teamwork, communication, and productivity in the workplace.

Professor Eric Flynn, teacher Mr. Andrew Angle (Science Teacher at Bloomfield High School), and Mr. Eric Rice (STEM/CTE Department Chair & Teacher at West Haven High School) led students through a series of microprocessor labs, solid modeling, and engineering mathematics activities.

Mr. Birch commented, “I am very impressed with the West Haven High School students’ abilities!”  

Mr. Rice added, “The CICSTART program has offered our students a unique learning experience which is difficult to achieve in the traditional classroom setting. Blending STEM skills with soft skills and professional skill development will significantly help our students advance in their future endeavors. We are thankful to the National Science Foundation and CISTART Team for including us.”

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