LVIC Hosts ASU+GSV Summit Innovative School Tour

Influential leaders in education, innovation, and business from around the world are in San Diego this week for the annual ASU+GSV Summit, and nearly 40 toured the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) Linda Vista Innovation Center (LVIC).

The visitors got a first-hand look at how SDCOE uses innovative lab experiences and partnerships with local industries to inspire the next generation of San Diego’s workforce. The LVIC was selected as a regional leader in innovative student experiences, just one of eight school sites around the county hosting tours during the event.

"SDCOE is committed to ensuring every child in our region has what they need to succeed in school and in life. A big part of that is connecting students to the high-paying, high-need industries in our region, so they can see and follow a path to their future career," said Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, San Diego County superintendent of schools. 

The LVIC opened its doors to summit attendees Monday morning, giving them the full, immersive experience. Led by SDCOE’s Assistant Superintendent of Innovation Dr. Matt Tessier and LVIC Principal Christina DeSanto, the group saw the unique lab experiences in action with elementary and middle school students. The young people from schools in the region dove into real-world experiences connected to careers in healthcare, information and communication technology, energy and utilities, advanced manufacturing, 3D printing, and more.

During the tour, summit attendees discussed the importance of early hands-on career exploration, and the role early exposure has in shaping students’ future opportunities, especially students from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

The group also examined the importance of collaboration with essential and in-demand industries to develop relevant innovative learning environments.

SDCOE facilitates the lab experiences through unique partnerships with private companies and other local government organizations. Our partners provide materials as well as subject matter expertise to define in-demand careers and build out activities and experiences for students.

Beyond touring the lab experiences and seeing students creating and collaborating on innovative ideas, attendees had a keen interest in finding turnkey ideas and scalable solutions that they can replicate and bring home to their states, schools, and communities.

Programs such as the LVIC’s esports program, as well as ideas on how to partner with local industry leaders and businesses, and even some of the technology used in the building were all ideas attendees shared as what they’re inspired to look into and implement when they get home.