The Visionary
News from Fort Wayne Community Schools
Rena Shown has joined the FWCS Foundation as Executive Director, bringing more than a decade of nonprofit leadership, fundraising and strategic partnership experience to the organization.
Before joining the Foundation, Shown served as Chief of Development and Strategic Partnerships at Turnstone, where she helped secure more than $41 million in philanthropic support while building partnerships that advanced the organization's mission on the local, national and international levels. Her experience in fundraising, strategic planning and community engagement will help strengthen the Foundation's work in supporting Fort Wayne Community Schools students and educators.
"The FWCS Foundation envisions a future where every student has access to the opportunities and resources needed to thrive," Shown said. "By connecting donors, businesses and community partners with FWCS, the Foundation provides long-term, sustainable support for innovative programs that strengthen academic achievement, expand student opportunities and prepare every learner for success in school, career and life."
As Executive Director, Shown will lead the Foundation's efforts to build meaningful partnerships and expand philanthropic support that creates new opportunities for students. Working alongside donors, businesses and community partners, the Foundation will continue investing in innovative programs and resources that help every FWCS student succeed in school, career and life.
As another school year begins, Fort Wayne Community Schools continues to place a strong emphasis on Guaranteed Experiences through its Schools of Success powered by 3DE initiative, helping students connect classroom learning to college, careers and life after graduation.
These intentionally planned experiences bring learning to life through career exploration, industry partnerships, hands-on projects and community engagement. They help students build confidence, develop essential skills and better understand the opportunities that await them after graduation.
At the high school level, Schools of Success is powered by 3DE, an innovative instructional model developed by Junior Achievement that transforms learning through real-world business challenges and authentic problem-solving experiences. Students work in teams to tackle case studies presented by local and national business partners, applying academic concepts while strengthening critical thinking, communication, collaboration and leadership skills.
Guaranteed Experiences are what bring Schools of Success to life. They support the district's transformational approach to preparing every student for the Monday after graduation and beyond. Whether students choose college, employment, military service or entrepreneurship, the initiative helps ensure they graduate ready for whatever comes next.
Schools of Success began with a simple but important question: How can schools better prepare students for the future?
Today, that vision is shaping learning at every grade level. Students begin exploring careers in elementary school, make stronger connections between academics and future opportunities in middle school, and participate in career pathways, dual-credit courses, work-based learning and industry partnerships in high school.
Through 3DE, students regularly collaborate with business leaders and community partners who bring real-world perspectives into the classroom. By solving authentic challenges and presenting their ideas to industry professionals, students gain valuable experience that prepares them for success beyond graduation.
The impact extends well beyond academics.
When students understand how classroom learning applies in the real world, they become more engaged and more confident. They discover new interests, develop lasting skills and begin to envision future possibilities. At the same time, teachers are creating more relevant learning experiences while partnerships with businesses, colleges and community organizations continue to expand opportunities for students.
Schools of Success powered by 3DE is more than an initiative. It is a commitment to ensuring every student graduates prepared for success in college, careers and life. Throughout the school year, Guaranteed Experiences will continue helping students discover their interests, develop essential skills and connect what they learn today with the opportunities of tomorrow.
Legendary Snider coach Russ Isaacs is being recognized with two incredible honors celebrating a lifetime of leadership and service. The FWCS Board of School Trustees recognized Isaacs for his induction into the National High School Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame, one of the highest honors in high school athletics. In addition, Snider's new on-campus stadium will be named in his honor. Snider alumni and NFL stars Rod Woodson and Jesse Bates III recently shared their reactions to the new stadium.
As we gear up for another inspiring and dynamic school year, FWCS is looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team. Whether you are an experienced educator, a recent graduate, or someone looking to make a meaningful impact in education, we have a place for you! Apply online at www.fwcsjobs.org!
Fort Wayne Community Schools
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Website: fortwayneschools.org
Location: 1200 South Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, IN, 46802, USA
Phone: (260) 467-1000
Facebook: facebook.com/FWCommSchools
Twitter: @FWCommSchools