The new Arizona Educational Foundation Cox Innovation Lab was unveiled at a Dec. 5 ribbon-cutting ceremony (submitted photo).
In early December, the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) unveiled the first Cox Innovation Lab in the nation dedicated solely to training and supporting teachers at its new facility in Phoenix, thanks to a $25,000 donation from Cox Communications.
The lab at AEF is designed around Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing; robotics and virtual reality; microelectronics with coding and circuits; and, creative making with graphic design and vinyl cutting. These four instructional areas align with Arizona State Standards in Science, Computer Science, Educational Technology, Literacy and Math.
“This is an exciting addition to our new educator-training space,” said AEF CEO Kim Graham. “It allows us to provide hands-on experience with leading technologies and then support the products of that training. Teachers will be able to develop inspiring projects, knowing they can return to the lab during “library hours” to utilize resources, like the 3D printer or die-cutters, to bring their students’ ideas to life.”
AEF board president, Dr. Pam Roggeman, agreed, “We know teachers struggle to afford classroom supplies and that can affect the lessons they plan. The Cox Innovation Lab encourages knowledge-based creativity without the worry of having to pay out-of-pocket for consumable items.”
AEF was founded in 1983, by then-State Superintendent of Public Education Carolyn Warner, who felt a nonprofit was needed to be established to champion public education and recognize the great work of public school educators. AEF annually reaches more than 500,000 students, teachers and administrators throughout Arizona.
The new lab is located inside the AEF offices at 326 E. Coronado Road, Suite 207. For more information, visit www.azedfoundation.org or contact info@azedfoundation.org.
