The Chandler Unified School District, in collaboration with the city of Chandler, Arizona State University and ASU Prep Digital, has announced a multifaceted partnership aimed at enhancing educational experiences and opportunities.

The partnership uses ASU Chandler Innovation Center, a Downtown Chandler center for fostering entrepreneurial thinking and innovation, to provide access to unique education.

Components of the partnership include a primary objective of breaking down barriers in underserved communities and ensuring that all students have equitable access to the same high-quality opportunities.

The ACIC Entrepreneur Space provides a nurturing environment where students can address real-world challenges they encounter in their daily lives.

CUSD and ASU Prep Digital have collaboratively developed a tailored curriculum that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the students.

ASU plays a role in the partnership by creating pathways and expanding access for schools within the district that have students in need of extra support.

Here are some program highlights:

• 165 fifth-grade students have already participated in the program.

• Students engage in Design Thinking, fostering attributes outlined in the CUSD Portrait of a Learner, enhancing their problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

The K-12 Innovation Alliance honored CUSD with its Innovative District Award on Oct. 27. The district was recognized during the inaugural K-12 Innovation Alliance Awards ceremony, which was the final event of a three-day summit that included participation from more than 100 global education leaders.

The summit included a student visit to the Innovation Center on Oct. 25, where Frye Elementary School fifth-grade students showcased their work in STEM through Design Thinking.

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