What does it take to be an entrepreneur? More than 2,700 fifth-graders will soon find out with Irving ISD’s newest program, Irving Develops Entrepreneurial Achievers (IDEA). The first of its kind in Texas, IDEA is an 18-week curriculum where all fifth-grade students across the district will collaborate and create a business model to develop, pitch and sell a product.
On August 16, the district hosted members of the local business community to unveil IDEA at a special launch event at The Study USA, Irving Innovation Center. Guests were invited to learn about the program and the opportunity to mentor the young entrepreneurs through outlined activities. During the event, remarks were given by Superintendent of Schools Jose L. Parra, Ed.D., and Margarita Gelaske of Uncharted Learning, an organization who developed IDEA’s entrepreneurial curriculum. Tom Foley from The Study was also introduced as a district Partner in Education, and Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce board member Mike McCall spoke on the impact of mentorship.
Information about IDEA, which will begin this fall, can be found at www.irvingisd.net/idea. Professionals can sign-up as mentors, volunteering one hour per week over the course of seven weeks. Companies can also adopt schools by providing off-site work space, resources or employee mentors.
