CNS hosts Micron panel discussion; event highlights collaboration

On Thursday, September 26, 2024, Cicero-North Syracuse High School welcomed some high-profile guests, including U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and AFT President Randi Weingarten. The event, held in the school’s library, celebrated a big moment for the North Syracuse Central School District, which is at the heart of an exciting partnership with Micron Technology. With Micron’s new chip plant coming to the area, the district is set to play a major role in shaping both the education and economy of Central New York. The event showcased the success possible through the collaboration of education, government and corporations.

The panel discussion, part of the lead-up to Micron’s groundbreaking in the Town of Clay, brought to light some of the work currently taking place behind the scenes as well as the professional development already taking place for educators. Panelists discussed their visits to Micron’s Manassas facility and how these experiences are shaping curriculum and preparing them to equip students with the skills needed in advanced manufacturing. Among the panelists, CNS Technology Teacher Alexis Williams and sophomore Lucas Labonoski shared their experiences and insights on how education and industry can work together to prepare students for the future. Their participation highlighted the district’s commitment to fostering student talent and the immense potential this partnership holds for shaping the next generation of technology leaders. A focal point included Micron’s educational initiative, the Advanced Technology Framework, a three-year program aimed at preparing students from ten New York school districts—including North Syracuse, Syracuse and Baldwinsville—for careers in the rapidly growing semiconductor industry. Developed by teachers in collaboration with Micron, the framework integrates industry-based learning, critical thinking and practical skills to prepare students for real-world technology careers. Interim Superintendent Schiedo said, “Micron’s decision to invest in our community is a game-changer for students, families, and the entire region. The opportunities created by this collaboration extend far beyond education, opening doors for job creation and innovation.” Looking ahead, the North Syracuse Central School District will continue its partnership with Micron to ensure even more opportunities for teacher training and hands-on learning experiences for students. The district is committed to equipping both educators and students with the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving world of technology. CNS Technology Teacher Alexis Williams, who was part of the panel discussion, highlighted the importance of this collaborative approach. She said, "Hands-on experiential learning, critical thinking, and design thinking are skills that never go out of fashion. Using this framework, which was created in collaboration with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and Micron, teachers can seamlessly integrate these skills into our classrooms. We’ve long understood that technology shapes society, and it’s growing at an exponential rate. Our job is to ensure students learn how to be adaptable learners who can thrive in this transitional period." Williams added, "This framework allows us to challenge students to develop crucial open-ended problem-solving skills. We’re teaching them how to think—a beautiful skill that will benefit them for the rest of their lives, no matter what field they choose to pursue." With the Advanced Technology Framework in place and an ongoing partnership with Micron, the district is set to lead the way in preparing the next generation of technology innovators and thinkers, ensuring that students in Central New York are ready to meet the demands of a fast-changing world. See more on Spectrum. See more on CNY Central.