Alexander H. Cladakis

Thanks to Cladakis, the "Medibotics (Medical Robotics)" program will be introduced to ninth and eleventh-graders at Ferris High School. The program provides a rich hands-on cross-curricular experience in biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics and technology. Students use LEGOS, motors, gears, sensors and computerized controllers to simulate medical robotics technology while gaining scientific skills in problem solving, critical thinking and cooperative learning. Students, teachers, parents, colleges and future employers partner in this project. The real-world application to medical technology provides motivation for the students to learn and introduces them to science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) careers. In New Jersey, the Medibotics Program is a partnership between high school teachers, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). Cladakis resides in Monroe.