PTC offers exciting new science class for fall semester!

Want to learn more about our ecosystems, our environment, and human impact?

New this fall, Pine Technical College is offering Introduction to Environmental Science (ENSC 1250). The class is 3 credits and fulfills Minnesota Transfer Curriculum Goals #3 Natural Science and #10 People Environment.

This course will introduce students to the discipline of Environmental Science through:

•Exploration of the relationship of humans to their environment from local, regional, and global perspectives.

•Observation of natural ecosystems and examination of the impact of human activity on natural resources and environmental quality, environmental ethics, and strategies to maintain a sustainable biosphere. 

This new class will be offered two days a week: Mondays (lecture/lab from 9 -11:55 a.m.) and Wednesdays (lecture 9 to 10:55 a.m.).

For further information, contact Eric Jensen at: jensene@pinetech.edu.

PTC Student Senate evolves with first-time events

Pine Technical College’s Student Senate has taken on some new excitement: a new President-elect, a trip to the Minnesota State College Student Association Summit, and summer trips to the Como Zoo and Wild Mountain.

Former Student Senate President Anne Kubesh graduated in May, leaving the President seat vacant. A campus-wide election was held in April, and after votes were tallied, Tim Soderbeck was named President-elect. He will assume his new position in late August, when fall semester begins. “It was bittersweet this spring with graduation and leaving Student Senate, but I know it’s in good hands with Tim as the new President,” remarked Kubesh.

As Student Senate President, Soderbeck hopes to see more participation from PTC clubs, and plans to utilize the Student Life Board located in the student lounge. “I’m very excited for this year,” Soderbeck stated.

Photo: Former Student Senate President Anne Kubesh and President-Elect Tim Soderbeck enjoy PTC’s Spring Fling back in May.

In March, three members of the PTC Student Senate and Staff Advisor attended the MSCSA third annual summit in Washington D.C. This was the first time PTC students have attended the summit.

Student Senate Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, Treasurer April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, and Voting Senator Kaylynn Anderson spent three days at the nation’s capital where they participated in mock meetings before meeting and engaging with Representatives Al Franken and Rick Nolan at the federal level.  During their meetings they were able to ask questions, and they discussed student issues with Franken and Nolan such as Pell Grants and student-loan rates.

“It was very informative,” Sheldon said about participating in government meetings at such a high level, and learning what students can do for themselves and their school.  “There was some very exciting stuff with MSCSA,” she continued.

Sheldon was also elected to serve PTC as the Alternate Governing Council Representative for the North Central region of the MSCSA.

“It was a good experience for everyone,” noted Spencer of the trip. “The students learned a lot. MSCSA did a lot to prepare for it (the summit).”

Photo: Student Senate members (l to r) April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, and Kaylynn Anderson represent Pine Technical College at the third annual MSCSA summit in Washington D.C.

Also for the first time, the Student Senate has sponsored summertime activities. Back in June, PTC Senate members, students, and their families joined each other for a day of fun at Como Zoo. Approximately 60 people attended the outing.

On Friday, July 19 fun was had by Senate members, students and families at Wild Mountain.

“This year was the first year we’ve done summer activities, and they have been successful,” said Spencer. “The students seem to really enjoy them, and they are the reasons we put these events together.”

To find out more about the Minnesota State College Student Association, go to www.mscsa.org.

Fall Semester begins next month!

Fall Semester is right around the corner! Are you regiestered? Have you applied?

For students who have already registered, Fall TUITION is due by Monday, August 5, 2013. Please complete the 2013-2014 FAFSA, or make payment arrangements by August 5th.

The LAST day to apply is ONLINE is Friday, August 9.

PTC's Incubator project is well underway

Construction crews continue to make progress on the Pine Entrepreneurship Center and Technology Business Incubator project.  The project officially broke ground on April 1, 2013. The incubator will house and support hi-tech and light manufacturing entrepreneurs in the community, and, at the same time, the incubator will provide PTC students access to internships and practical experience in cutting-edge, hi-tech industry.

The incubator’s first tenants may begin operations from the center as early as December, 2013.

Check out the recent progress over a week’s span of the incubator.

Photos were taken by Pine Technical College President Robert Musgrove, Ph.D.

PTC's Laureen Williams takes on new role

Laureen Williams has accepted the Interim Director of Marketing and Admissions position, taking over for Danielle Chandonnet, who left after 4 years at Pine Technical College to pursue a new role.


“We will miss Danielle, and we wish her well with her new adventure,” said Dean of Student Affairs Paula Hoffman. Williams’ “skills, knowledge of PTC, and her experience with our internal processes will go a long way towards providing continuous service for our students and our department,” she continued.

Williams took over the reins on June 19.

“With my past 12 years at PTC, I am excited to take over where Danielle left off. My experience with curriculum and the processes at our campus are a natural fit for me. Please stop by and say hello!”

Williams’ former position, Student-Parent Support Coordinator, was accepted by Anne Kubesh.

2-year tuition freeze!

Are you thinking about continuing your education or getting back into school? Now is the best time to get enrolled and start your higher education journey at Pine Technical College.

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) has announced that there will be a two-year tuition freeze at all of the 31 MnSCU schools throughout the state.

In other words, no tuition increase at least until 2015. Tuition will remain the same for the next two years at all MnSCU schools. “We are freezing tuition to provide you with the continued opportunity to earn an affordable degree while keeping college debt levels as low as possible,” noted a MnSCU representative.

This freeze makes it a financially smart time to get enrolled at PTC, where you can earn a degree, certificate or diploma.

The freeze will begin fall 2013. For more information on our admissions process, contact the Student Affairs Office at 320-629-5100.

PTC welcomes Anne Kubesh to Student Affairs

Pine Technical College welcomes Anne Kubesh to the Student Affairs team as the Student-Parent Support Coordinator. Kubesh joined the team June 19 when she replaced Laureen Williams, who is now Interim Director of Marketing.

“Anne was selected because of her skills with connecting to students.  She has a talent for communicating to the student and making them feel welcome and comfortable,” explained Williams.  “Anne has been a part of the Student-Parent Grant program for over 1 ½ years as a Student Mentor and Parents’ Café facilitator.  Anne’s history with the program will be a huge asset to close the program at the end of August.”

Kubesh is a 2013 Pine Technical College graduate and is looking forward to taking on this new role, and making sure students feel welcome as they start their journey at PTC.  “I’m excited to join the team, and I look forward to working with students,” stated Kubesh.

More information on the new Interim Director of Marketing will follow. Check back for details!

Tutoring in the summer - a first

Summer semester is in full swing, and for the first time ever, the Academic Skills Center (ASC) at Pine Technical College is offering summer tutoring.  

So, why offer it now? “The ASC saw a need for summer tutoring and wanted to increase support services for students in summer. All tutoring is free and no appointment needed,” explained Erin White, Academic Skills Center Director.

It has only been three weeks into summer semester, but already tutor Morgan Richardson has seen many students utilize tutoring. “It’s almost even more busy than spring and fall,” said Richardson. 

This summer you can find Greg Johnson for accounting, English and math; Morgan Richardson for all science courses, math and English; and Vincent Zilka for CAD. The summer tutoring schedule is available online or right outside the Academic Skills Center, located in Room 129 in the LRTC.

PTC Campus Store now offers option to rent textbooks

The PTC Campus Store is offering a new, more inexpensive way to save on textbooks – by renting.

“Textbooks have always made up a large chunk of expenses students face every semester, and the cost of textbooks, which is already higher or more than what students expect, seem to go up in price nearly every semester,” says Janis Wegner, PTC Business Services Manager. “So, in an effort to lower textbook costs, we have decided to offer a textbook rental program,” Wegner explains.

One clear benefit of renting textbooks is the upfront savings – renting textbooks is cheaper, which translates into more savings for students. Another benefit is that renting guarantees students’ rented textbooks will be returned without question. With renting, students who wish to return their used textbooks at the end of the term have the guarantee the books will be accepted – in fact, returning them is required. With purchasing, students run the risk of not being able to sell the books back at the end of the semester, since often, instructors may decide to use different textbooks or new editions, eliminating the market that would have bought the returned course materials.

“This has got to be one of the best ways to save money during college,” says Sandi Oachs, Practical Nursing student. “I love the fact that I don't have to worry about selling the books back or selling them online once the class is over.”

The option to rent debuted this summer term, and while students have embraced the new program, Wegner cautions that students must be aware of the rules of the program.

“The rental program is really taking off, and students are embracing it, but I want to caution renters that not every course material is available for rent – for example, workbooks obviously are not rentable,” says Wegner. “Also, it’s not a payment plan – if the rented books are not returned on time, students will be charged the full price, on top of the rental.”

PHOTO at top: Practical Nursing student Sandi Oachs, an avid reader and textbook renter, discovers additional reading in the LRTC during the first week of summer term.

PTC's annual magazine, THE LINK, now available online

PTC proudly announces its annual magazine, THE LINK, is now available online. Read the current issue, plus take a trip back in time to review past issues from previous years. THE LINK always features interesting campus highlights and profiles of star students.

Studying Far and Wide: The Shock of Culture

No matter where you go in the world to study, whether it’s to the other side of the globe or the other side of the country, there is bound to be some form of culture shock in one way or another. Going to study abroad in another country can be an incredibly exciting experience, and when it is make sure you treasure those moments. However, there will be times when you realize that you’re not at home anymore. Things you thought would be new, exotic and original have the possibility of becoming maybe a little bit too different and leaving you a rather frustrated and homesick. Every continent, every country, even every state is different and getting used to it can prove difficult if you’re not prepared. When you take that first step into a new country as a young student everything is bound to seem a little strange: the food, the transport as well as your studies and new college. Obviously, if you’ve grown up and lived in the same town for your whole life, you are used to the values and ideals of that particular culture, so trying to adapt to foreign culture can create a mixture of emotion. 

Language:

Differences across the world are varied, whether they are huge differences between the U.S and Asia or simply smaller differences between states or moving from a small town to a big city. Firstly, and most obviously, the language barrier can be a huge shock. It is the main thing that separates the world, and most people see language as a beautiful thing. However, if you are not studying a particular language, you may often find yourself a little bit stuck. Trying to talk to locals or trying to figure out street signs on your way to class is bound to start off a little awkwardly, that is until you start to know your way around and start picking up some simple phrases to get by. 

Culture:

Even if you are going to study in an English speaking country, the reality of other cultures can also be a surprise. Standard and way of living can differ greatly country-to-country; you can never expect the same ways of life no matter what language they speak. Food is another main difference across the world, as it is unlikely for you to find home comforts once you’re away from home. Trying local cuisine is a must to be able to become more familiar with a different culture, but your favorite home-cooked meal is unlikely to be found. Instead, just dig into some of that real Italian pizza or French cheese. 

Phases of Cultural Adjustment:

There are various phases of adjusting to different cultures once you’ve chosen to study in another country. It begins with the initial euphoria, beginning with the excitement of arriving in the new country and ending as the excitement eventually wears off. The irritability phase is introduced if certain aspects of everyday life become difficult to get used to, as everything still feels new and different and, well, foreign. You will begin to focus on simply the differences between home and your new country, and sometimes even the little difficulties will appear major to you. Therefore the culture shock can be a little bit too overwhelming and difficult to handle for some. When things do become too much, it may be easy to take a wrong turn if you are unable to deal with the pressures of culture shock alongside the pressure of further education. No matter what you have turned to, returning home is always a possibility due to the number of recovery programs in California and across the U.S. However, if able to progress through this phase, then gradual adjustment and adaptation can be achieved. The differences will minimize, and you will begin to be fascinated with your new home, enjoying the culture, cuisine and learning the language. 

Easing Cultural Shock:

Most people will naturally experience some form of culture shock in a variety of proportions, but mostly you will be able to handle the differences from home and adapt to your new country with no problems. Travelling with a genuine interest in the culture that you are staying in for your studies is imperative, as if you have no interest then you will be more reluctant to try new things; so an open mind is imperative to begin an unforgettable experience. Also, as long as you are prepared for things to be different and you are not expecting everyday life to be exactly the same, then any differences you come across will not be as drastic as they first seem. Studying abroad should be an amazing and exciting experience, and the thought of culture shock should not put you off trying something new.

by Jennifer Mann

Artwork by Cassandra Spruit on display now through August

On display now through August, 2013, in what PTC has affectionately dubbed the “Pine Art Gallery,” are original works of art created by computer science student Cassandra Spruit. Spruit came to PTC in Aug., 2012, having transferred from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, where she began her academic career taking a variety of general education courses. However, Spruit says once she discovered PTC's programs in the computer sciences, she was inspired to pursue an education focused in information and computer science.

"I was drawn to PTC because, while I appreciate the value in gaining a comprehensive general education, I knew it was time to focus on a particular track," Spruit says. "Plus, of course, I am kind of a natural techie; after all, even my artistic side is influenced by the digital and hi-tech world," Spruit adds.

Today, Spruit is nurturing a budding career in graphic design and manages a small business in addition to taking courses in the computer science program. Most recently, Spruit designed a logo for a friend's startup film production company.

"I was always really into computers growing up, and also, I was always kind of artistic and creative," Spruit says. "When I got a really hi-tech tablet for Christmas in 2011, my skills really took off, and after spending time practicing and creating things with that, I began to consider a career in graphic design," Spruit explains.

Spruit also has become an important figure on the PTC campus, having served for the past two semesters as an alternate voting senator representing the Computer Club; and, Spruit recently was elected to serve the larger student body in the upcoming '13-'14 academic year as Student Senate Vice President.

Spruit is on track for a May, 2014 graduation with her A.S. in computer science and plans to transfer to St. Cloud State University to pursue a B.S. in applied computer science.

The Pine Art Gallery features works of original art created by established and/or emerging artists from the Pine Area, embracing the talent and creativity of Pine Technical College students and the larger Pine community. The exhibit changes seasonally, and many kinds of artworks are showcased, including paintings, photography, pottery, sculptures, sketches, wood carvings and more. If you are an artist from the Pine Area and wish to exhibit your works in the Pine Art Gallery, see the Pine Technical College Marketing Director in Student Affairs.

Benefits of Studying Languages Abroad

There is often much reluctance from students to go and study abroad; however there are many obvious advantages to studying languages in other countries, making it an experience that many students should take if given the opportunity. Not only do most Colleges offer years abroad, but students do also have the chance to take their entire University career across the world if they wish to, which is not something everyone knows about when deciding where to further their studies. Especially when taking a language as your major, situating yourself in that particular country and immersing yourself within their culture can really enhance your understanding and learning. We all know that over the last few years Colleges have been filling up, and filling up fast to say the least. Spare places in Colleges across the country are becoming incredibly difficult to come across, so with institutions filling quickly to the brim why don't language students consider the higher education opportunities around the world? In many aspects, it simply makes sense to take your chosen language studies abroad, to learn French in France or Spanish in Spain.

Standing Out, On Your Own Two Feet:

Most importantly, studying abroad looks amazing on a CV and will enhance your later job prospects and possibilities, as studying abroad will make you stand out as an ambitious and driven individual. Firstly, it is a great conversational topic with future employees as they will most definitely be interested in your experience, what it has taught you and how you can bring what you have learnt into future work. Employers will see the time abroad as a true sign of independence and initiative, proving you have the ability to cope on your own in unfamiliar surroundings, while learning at the same time.

Learn and Travel:

Learning abroad will also give you the once in a lifetime opportunity of travelling while studying at the same time; a chance not many people decide to take up. You’re obviously not tied to the city where you are attending your classes, but you have an entire new country to explore. This is an excellent advantage for language students, as you’re skills and knowledge will be consistently put into practice. Navigating yourself around a foreign country will really enhance understanding of the language, and interaction with the locals will only enrich and develop conversational technique. It will also highly increase your ability to become fluent in your chosen language, quicker than you think. Depending on where you decide to go, you may also have the possibility of visiting nearby countries, ensuring that you gain the best cultural, historical and educational experience.

Money

Making sure that you are prepared for this experience is essential. Studying abroad doesn’t have to be any more costly than studying at home. You’ll just need to make sure you’ve done your research and your math. Remembering the all-important things from accommodation costs and tuition fees, to varying living costs and exchange rates. Many Colleges have overseas campuses, which are likely to have accommodation and tuition costs that are no different to studying in the US. But if you just have a look around, there is plenty to help you. From seeing if you are eligible for financial support, to shopping around for the best book deals and supplies. Don’t let the thought of money put you off at all; as it is likely that you’re only major costs will be the travel to actually get there. But anyone who has done it before will agree that it is worth it.

TEFL

Teaching English as a Foreign Language courses can be taken all over the world. But it is a wonder why all students don’t take themselves to another country to complete the process. After all, it seems a much bigger jump to take all education in your home country and to then to try and look for your first job abroad. As you will be living in a non-English speaking country, it only makes sense for you to take this as an opportunity to begin setting up your new life in a new country.

As long as you have the money for accommodation and living costs, there is nothing stopping you from going out there weeks or even months before your TEFL course to really immerse yourself with your new surroundings. It will then become a much easier transition when it comes to taking on this very intensive four-week course, and eventually your teaching career. You will be able to become accustomed to the culture and way of life in the country you have decided to go to, which is often seen as the biggest challenge of moving abroad, as every single country has its very own unique culture and set of values.

 

By Jennifer Mann.

PTC prepares for tonight's record-setting graduation ceremony

With more than 200 students graduating in the 2012-13 academic year, Pine Technical College is preparing for its largest graduation ceremony in the college’s 48-year history. The ceremony will be held tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Pine City High School gymnasium.

A combination of 215 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be awarded this year, and ceremony guest speakers include Lori and Traci Tapani, sisters and Co-Presidents of Wyoming Machine – a longtime PTC supporter and partner in economic advancement.

“Tonight's ceremony promises to be a momentous event, as we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates,” says PTC President Robert L. Musgrove, Ph.D. “During the ceremony, we recognize our graduates, highlight our tradition, college pride, and community spirit. We are so proud of our students and graduates, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements,” Musgrove adds.

The public is encouraged and welcome to attend in support of the graduates. A cake and coffee reception will follow the ceremony in the common area at PCHS.

PTC's Student Senate and Student-Parent Success program serve up fun at "Spring Fling"

Pine Technical College's Student Senate and Student-Parent Success program hosted and sponsored PTC's Second Annual Spring Fling last Friday evening. The event drew more than 200 students, staff, faculty, and their family members to the college's east lawn for games and a barbecue dinner, catered by Nicoll's Café.

"The Spring Fling is a special event to celebrate everyone's hard work throughout the year, and it marks the culmination of another academic year," says Laureen Williams, Director of the Student-Parent Success program. "It provides an opportunity for everyone to showcase their campus to their family members and, since it coincides with Finals Week, this event allows everyone to let off some steam, eat some delicious barbecue, and have some fun together in a no-stress environment," Williams adds.

All student clubs participated in the event by either organizing and hosting a game-station, or by assisting with planning the event. Games included a ring-toss, a bean-bag toss, fishing, remote-controlled robotics, and more. Additionally, attendees were able to pose in a photo booth and capture the event on film. All games, food, events, and prizes were free to attendees.

"We are pleased with the participation and turnout," says Tim Soderbeck, Student Senate Parliamentarian. "The Spring Fling is a big hit because of everyone involved in pulling it together. I'm already looking forward to next year's," Soderbeck adds.

PHOTOS at top, from top-down:

1. The event gets underway with set-up.
2. Event staff, Student Senate Parliamentarian Tim Soderbeck and Student Senate Secretary Morgan Richardson, monitor the event.
3. A family tries their hand at the fishing game.
4. A child operates a robot via a remote-control, with assistance from computer programming student Zach Ellingson.
5. A family tries their hand at the ring-toss game.
6. Children visit the Student-Parent Success program table and choose a few free books, with assistance from Laureen Williams, Program Director.

PTC welcomes Diana White to lead Advanced Manufacturing Education grant efforts

Pine Technical College welcomes Diana B. White, M.S.W., to the Office of Strategic Initiatives. White will serve as PTC’s Advanced Manufacturing Education (AME) Grant Manager, implementing and managing the college’s newly-acquired U. S. Department of Labor grant, focused on filling needs and opportunities within the advanced manufacturing sector in East Central Minnesota and beyond.

“We are so pleased to have Diana; she will drive our AME activities going forward as we continue to grow and expand,” says Stefanie Schroeder, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development. “Her experience and background in public policy, public budgeting, and altogether researching, writing, and acquiring grants, on top of her experience working with students and institutions of higher education, will support our commitment in serving our current and prospective manufacturing students, as well as the larger college community related to our manufacturing sector,” Schroeder adds.

White brings more than twenty years of administrative experience developing and managing programs for federal, state, and county governments, as well as nonprofit social service and workforce development organizations. Specifically, White’s professional background includes substantial experience in researching, writing and managing grants; most recently, in 2012, White managed a U. S. Department of Labor Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) grant which focused on training incumbent workers for the wood products manufacturing industry, and, White implemented programming related to a College Ready grant, focusing on preparing historically underserved students for success in college.

White holds a bachelor of science (B.S.) in education/communicative disorders, from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, a master of social work (M.S.W.) from Eastern Washington University, Cheney, and White has completed coursework toward a Ph.D. in public administration and policy from Portland State University, Portland, Oregon. In addition, White is an entrepreneur and owned her own small business for more than six years as a silversmith; today, White enjoys attending art festivals where she sells her own original works.

PHOTO at top: Diana B. White, PTC Advanced Manufacturing Education Grant Manager.

Annette Weaver, Child Care Aware staff member and mom, shares the importance of early learning and “star ratings”

Eleven years ago, when my first bouncing baby boy was getting ready to enter kindergarten, I thought I had everything all figured out. I was a working nine-to-five mom, and things were going along just fine. My job was great, and my son was even better.

We did all the normal things I thought parents were supposed to do: we sang the ABCs and 123s; we could name all the colors of the rainbow; and, altogether, my child was brilliant! And, I was the best mom he could ask for!

Our happiness came crashing down only a few short weeks into kindergarten. The school was calling to report there were problems with my child. He wasn't fitting in. He wasn't ready. He was behind. Each year the problems got worse. We had individualized education program (IEP) meetings regularly, as he was placed in special classes. But, there was nothing technically “wrong” with my child; he simply didn't do well in school from Day One.

Apparently, I did not prepare him for kindergarten. It’s a tough critique to take when you've worked so hard. You look at your child and think he's just as smart as every other child his age. At that point, I didn't even know what they meant by “he’s not ready.” He knew his letters! He knew his numbers!

And then, my second child came around, and I thought, “This child will be ready!” After all, I had five years to learn with the older one. Between a full-time job and working on my bachelor’s degree, I still managed to focus my energy on getting him prepared: letters, numbers, colors, shapes – now, I had it right! And, yet again, the phone calls started. I thought, “What was I doing wrong? Was it possible I had failed twice?” I felt defeated; how was I going to manage two children who are falling behind in school?

Now, with my firstborn a high school junior and finally off IEPs but still struggling, I've realized that I didn't do anything wrong; I just didn't know what to do right. I had no idea of all the factors involved in preparing my child for kindergarten, and, even if I had the time between jobs, school, and life, I'm not sure I would have been able to get them ready. No matter how hard we worked, they were always behind.

With my third child who is now three, I know how important it is that while I am working, he is learning. I simply cannot fit an entire day of learning experiences into a three-hour evening, no matter how hard I try. I get home about 5:30 p.m., and between dinner, homework, bath time, and life, there is no way, as a working parent, that I can teach my child what he needs to know. I have to rely on my child care provider to help me.

Getting ready for kindergarten isn't all about learning ABCs or 123s, and having years of experience behind me, I now know part of that learning relies on creating a nurturing environment where he feels safe and cared for. It’s about him having the opportunity to socialize and to play. It’s about him getting enough rest. It’s about him having opportunities to create and explore. And, it’s also about the ABCs and 123s.

For these reasons, my youngest is currently enrolled in a four-star Parent Aware-rated program, and, as a parent, I can't even begin to describe the peace of mind it brings. Every day, I can see his excitement, I can see he is learning, and I know with their help that my child will be kindergarten-ready. I also know if he is behind in any area, they will communicate with me, and together, we prepare him.

While it may not be encouraging to hear that 50 percent of children are not prepared for kindergarten, for me, it came as a kind of relief. I realized I wasn't alone and many other parents also must feel like they are failing. The truth is, many parents continue to struggle, year after year, trying to get their children up to speed, not realizing it may never come.

It is my belief each and every child deserves the chance to be ready. With the help of Child Care Aware and Parent Aware programs, preparation is more streamlined, more comprehensive, and less stressful for parents. Each and every day, the child care professionals teach my child new things, and this is so important to both me and my child. Quality child care professionals are irreplaceable.

- Annette Weaver, Pine Technical College/Child Care Aware of Minnesota Northeast

Are you interested in using Parent Aware to find quality child care? Call 800-890-5399, or visit www.parentawareratings.org. Also, if you live in Pine County and have a child between the ages of three and five, you may qualify for up to $4,000 in financial assistance for placing your child in a Parent Aware-rated program.

PHOTO at top (L to R): The Weaver family; Austin, Annette, Cole, and Tobias.

Grant program assists families in accessing early childhood education

Pine Technical College continues to work to distribute nearly $134,000 in the form of scholarship money to qualified families wishing to enroll their three- to five-year-old children in recognized early childhood programs. PTC was awarded the funds from the Minnesota Department of Education last fall, and to date, the program has awarded 20 Early Childhood Education scholarships for children in Pine County and beyond.

“Providing access to high-quality programs to our region’s youngest learners offers all of us our best chance at eliminating the achievement gaps that plague nearly every education system,” says Wendy Walburg, Child Care Aware District Director. “This grant program works to offer children a better academic foundation, and as a result, the stage is set for future and long-term success,” Walburg adds.

The Early Childhood Coalition is a broad and comprehensive committee representing Early Childhood Family Education, school district personnel, child development instructors, childcare providers, parents, public health organizations, city officials, chambers of commerce, business owners, and other community members involved in the education of children. The coalition has been instrumental in applying for the funding for Pine County families. The Early Childhood Education Scholarship program still has more than $77,000 to award – enough to assist about 20 more qualifying families.

Child Care Aware (formerly known as Child Care Resource and Referral), located on the Pine Technical College campus, is not only a partner, but is guiding and managing the scholarship program. Child Care Aware also is a part of PTC’s Employment and Training Center and serves 17 counties in Northeastern Minnesota. Additionally, Child Care Aware is working with Pine County providers in becoming rated in Minnesota’s new Child Care rating system, Parent Aware.

The grant program builds on the success of the state’s new Parent Aware program – a system that rates child care and early education providers on a one- to four-star ranking. The system’s goal is to help families find child care and early education providers focused on high-quality early learning and kindergarten readiness. The ranking system measures best practices identified by research that help children succeed in kindergarten and beyond. To inquire about the grant program, including for information regarding how to apply for grant assistance, call Child Care Aware, 320-629-5164 or 800-890-5399.

Instructor Stacey Foster nominated Outstanding Educator

Pine Technical College liberal arts instructor Stacey Foster has been named Pine Technical College’s Outstanding Educator based on nominations by students, faculty peers, and staff members. Foster is one of 36 across the state to have earned the title – the others having earned the nomination from their respective MnsCU institutions. Foster, accompanied by PTC President Robert Musgrove, Ph.D., and Dean of Academic Affairs Joan Bloemendaal-Gruett, Ed.D., attended a statewide ceremony yesterday that recognized all nominees from across the state.

This is the seventh year of the awards program, and the April 17 event revealed the state’s top winners who took home gold, engraved medallions and the prestigious title Educator of the Year – MnSCU’s highest academic honor. Evaluation criteria included teaching strategies and materials; content expertise; service to students, the profession, institution and the system; and assessment of student learning and performance. The winning four faculty members, selected from the 36 campus-nominated Outstanding Educators, included Andrew Aspaas of Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Dr. Alan Erdahl of Riverland Community College, Darci Goeden of Central Lakes College, and Susan Thaemert of Hennepin Technical College.

“These faculty members have all gone well beyond expectations to provide support to their students in achieving their academic goals,” said Clarence Hightower, MnSCU Board of Trustees Chair, while addressing the crowd at the April 17 event. “Student success depends upon the kind of faculty we have with us here; they teach creatively, they work to ensure successful student learning outcomes, they strive to create unique and lasting learning experiences, and they open students’ eyes to what’s possible in their lives as global citizens.” Hightower added.

Foster began her academic career at PTC in July, 2004 as the Executive Assistant to the President, and after earning her master’s degree in fine arts, Foster transitioned into a faculty role in Jan. 2008. Foster currently teaches ENGL 1276: College Composition, READ 210: Reading Strategies II, and ENGL 220: Writing Foundations II; plus, Foster will be teaching additional courses this fall term, adding ENGL 100: Writing Foundations I and READ 100: Reading Strategies I to her courseload.

Foster holds a bachelor’s of applied arts (B.A.A.) from the University of Minnesota – Duluth and a master’s in fine arts (M.F.A.) in creative writing from Hamline University. Foster’s hobbies include reading and writing original poetry, as well as writing creative nonfiction; some of which have been published in various literary media. Foster says she is honored to have been nominated as PTC’s Outstanding Educator.

“I am honored and humbled to have been nominated to represent PTC as this year’s Outstanding Educator,” says Foster. “The nomination means a lot to me, particularly because there are so many excellent instructors at PTC who take teaching very seriously. Plus, to share the stage with so many like-minded educators who are enthusiastic about teaching and maximizing students’ learning is wonderful – this awards event is about being a part of something bigger,” Foster adds.

Photo at top: PTC's 2013 Outstanding Educator, Instructor Stacey Foster.

Instructor Phil Darg’s original musical to premier off-Broadway

Pine Technical College liberal arts instructor Phil Darg’s original stage production, Sasquatched! The Musical, was selected by the New York Musical Theatre Festival’s Next Link Project, NYMF’s primary writer service program, to premier at the tenth annual New York Musical Theatre Festival, which runs July 8 through July 28 in New York City.

“I am honored my piece was selected,” says Darg. “As an instructor, actor, playwright, writer, and composer, I find it important to embed music, theatre, and the arts into the curriculum. The best way to do that is to stay active in my other professions and hobbies and work to inspire my students through creative means,” adds Darg.

The New York Musical Theatre Festival is the premier annual musical theater event which presents new musicals in an off-Broadway venue. Productions chosen for the Next Link Showcase are selected through a double-blind process and are presided over by a judging committee of industry professionals, including Tony Award winners and nominees.

Darg’s musical features Arthur, a kindhearted, gentle, talking Sasquatch, who is lost in a national park when he is befriended by young Sam. Together, they encounter quirky locals and elude a ruthless television crew investigating “Bigfoot.” The musical offers entertainment with light social commentary delivered with catchy music in a comical style.

“The style of the play is humorous, fast-moving, and contemporary. The subject matter is somewhat satirical in nature, but is geared toward general audiences,” Darg says. “Dramatic themes include overprotective parenting, the phoniness of the media, environmentalism, multiculturalism, and animal rights. But, it’s nothing too preachy, political, or saccharin – the show maintains a balance between edgy and sweet,” Darg explains.

Darg has appeared in several productions, both on stage and for local television. He is the author of more than a dozen plays and has composed and produced music for local and national television. Darg’s music has been broadcast on multiple networks including MTV, The History Channel, and Turner South. At PTC, Darg teaches SPCH 1250: Intercultural Communication, SPCH 1260: Introduction to Speech, HIST 1200: United States History Since 1877, and POLS 1205: American Government and Politics. Darg holds a B.A. in history, an M.A. in speech communication, and an M.A. in history from Minnesota State University, Mankato; additionally, Darg holds a Ph.D. (ABD) in history from the University of North Dakota.

Photo: PTC instructor Phil Darg, on the streets of New York City, playfully advertising to produce off-Broadway musicals.

How Distance Education Has Changed Over The Years

  

Distance education courses were once the stuff of late-night infomercials which were generally disregarded as holding any integrity. Today's distance degrees, however, are legitimate educational tools and proof of accomplishment. If you want to get your degree, you should consider how distance education has changed over the last decade.

Today's distance education courses come from many providers. While there are still many distance-only universities that provide online or correspondence degrees, there are an increasing number of traditional universities that offer degrees online. The reasoning is easy to understand; online courses do not have the population limitations of traditional classes which allows universities to educate more students in each class. Picking the right university from which to get a degree is somewhat harder than it may have been in the past, but the fact that students now have many options is a positive development.

It is no secret that online courses of the past have not always been of the highest quality. So-called "degree mills" have done a great deal of harm to the reputation of this type of education, and there are still those who may think that any form of distance education is necessarily part of a scheme. In reality, modern distance courses have more in common with traditional college courses than ever before. Most distance learning providers are certified by a local or national agency, allowing students a real chance to experience education at a high-quality level without having to step foot inside a classroom.

The internet has revolutionized higher education, and distance education has benefited more than most. Thanks to modern internet technology, those who take online courses now have the ability to communicate in real time with their professors and other classmates via instant messaging, email, text, and even live video on their mobile or home device. This allows those taking courses a better chance to learn material as well as a better chance to get the traditional education experience interacting with peers and the teacher. Some of the more prestigious online distance education courses offer live and tape delayed lectures for their students as well as the ability to talk to a professor or other trained consulting expert virtually anytime day or night.

Changes have also come from potential employing companies and their willingness to hire someone with a degree obtained online. While the degrees may have once been considered lesser proof of accomplishment, the modern distance degree is virtually identical to a standard degree. Given that many major universities have switched over to partial or total distance education, there is simply no way for most employers to distinguish between the degree types. This makes those with these degrees more employable and helps most students who obtain these degrees to find success within their chosen fields of work.

If you want to get an education, distance courses really are the way to go. It is virtually identical in content to any other degree, but it does not require that you spend the time to attend a class on a university campus. Whether you think that getting a degree in the traditional manner would take too long or you simply wish to learn on your own, an online degree may be the right choice for you.

PTC welcomes Brenda Skluzacek to Human Resources

Brenda Skluzacek joins the Pine Technical College Human Resources department as the college and department's new Human Resources Assistant. In her role, Skluzacek will work to provide faculty and staff members with a variety of services related to benefits, compensation, employee relations, recruiting services, and leadership and staff development.

"On behalf of the PTC community, I want to warmly welcome Brenda to our campus," says Amy Kruse, PTC's Chief Human Resources Officer. "After a lengthy search, we feel lucky to have found Brenda. She brings an excellent mix of experience and knowledge to the position," Kruse adds.

Prior to joining PTC, Skluzacek served as a Human Resources Specialist at Ecumen Parmly LifePointes in Chisago City. Additionally, Skluzacek holds a Bachelor of Science degree in special education-vocational rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, and she recently completed her Human Resources Generalist Certificate from the University of Minnesota. Brenda says she is excited to work in her hometown of Pine City as well as contribute to the larger college community.

"I am proud to be a new Pine," Skluzacek says. "As a department, HR enjoys the wide diversity of serving a complex college community, and I look forward to delivering services that encourage and support the success of the college and the members of our community," Skluzacek adds.

BSU's McCracken to visit PTC

Did you know PTC has several articulation agreements with Bemidji State University, especially within the technology and engineering fields?

Dr. James McCracken, Chair of BSU's Department of Technology, Art and Design, will visit PTC Apr. 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. to discuss BSU's 2 + 2 BAS in Applied Engineering and BSU's 2 + 2 BAS in Technology Management. Don't miss your chance to get information straight from the source regarding transfer to pursue these valuable bachelor degrees, especially if you are a current student enrolled in PTC's advanced manufacturing or gunsmithing and firearms technology programs.

About Dr. James McCracken
Dr. James McCracken is Professor in BSU’s Department of Technological Studies, serving as Director of the Bemidji State University Center for Career and Technical Education and as Academic Coordinator for Distance Delivery of the B.A.S. in Technology Management. McCracken has taught courses in technology education, design technology and industrial technology, and currently has instructional duties which include professional education courses. McCracken earned his B.S. and M.S. in Industrial Education from UW-Stout and an Ed.D in Technology, Career, Technical and Adult Education from Texas A&M.

PHOTO at TOP: Dr. James McCracken, Chair of Bemidji State University’s Department of Technology, Art and Design.

Get Math Help from Eduboard

Many people curious about what is so great with a math help site such as http://eduboard.com/math/pre-algebra/. That’s understandable enough since it’s not something that you usually check on the internet for information. You usually know about math help service directly when you go around the blocks and find that there’s this nice math course place that you want to try. The thing about opening the site and get a help online for your tutoring session might be too odd to come true. Yet, it’s not the case anymore since there’s eduboard which is ready to give you fast service whenever you need it. It’s not always in the right time when you have a need to do your math assignments. Sometimes, you just get it out of the blue and you will have to struggle to get it done in time. Because it’s an assignment, then you will not be able to do it in the school and furthermore, your teacher’s help is just not listed too. 

This is why you should get a help that you can rely on whenever you need to finish your math assignments. For this reason, you can go to eduboard that will absolutely give you professional assistance to do your math assignments whether it’s in the afternoon or in the night after dinner. With online help service, you will not have to bother your tutor to come hurriedly whenever you need a help with your math assignment and the only thing that you need to do is just opening the site and then you’re ready to work with it. Register is surely important before you can even ask a question about anything. After you have taken a register then you will be able to ask the professionals there about anything in your assignment. You can also have another question session when you have a hard time with your assignment. All you need to do is sign in and ask the question in the site so that you can get the answer in an instance.

PTC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter inducts 44 new members

Last evening, proud family members and friends of Pine Technical College’s top-performing students gathered for an induction ceremony of more than 40 new members to the Beta Kappa Rho chapter of the academic honor society Phi Theta Kappa (PTK).

“I want to extend my congratulations to each of our inductees on their academic success and honor society membership,” says Tony Mueller, PTC’s faculty advisor for the PTK chapter. “As honor society members, I know they will continue to dedicate themselves to their academics as well as to our larger college community. These are our future leaders,” Mueller adds.

The induction ceremony included a processional of inductees, a welcome address from Mueller, and remarks from guest speakers Anne Kubesh, President of the Beta Kappa Rho chapter, and Robert Musgrove, Ph.D., President of Pine Technical College. All inductees took an oath of membership. The ceremony was held in auditorium and was followed with a cake and coffee reception.

PTK was established by Missouri two-year college presidents in 1918, and the society serves to recognize and encourage the academic achievement of two-year college students as well as to provide opportunities for individual growth and development through honors, leadership, and service programming. To be eligible for membership, a student must complete a minimum of twelve hours of coursework and earn a grade-point average of 3.25 or higher. Students must maintain a high academic standing throughout their enrollment.

Today, PTK is the largest honor society in American higher education with more than 2 million members and 1,200 chapters located in all 50 of the United States, U.S. territories, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Germany, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, the United Arab Emirates, and Palau. In 1929, the American Association of Community Colleges recognized PTK as the official honor society for two-year colleges.

PHOTO above: PTC President Robert Musgrove, Ph.D., was a guest speaker at the induction ceremony and offers his congratulations to new members of the Beta Kappa Rho chapter of PTK.

PHOTO at top of page: New members of  the Beta Kappa Rho chapter gather for a group photo, just after taking the oath.