Sheryl Neibert, Barbara Peregrine, Tyler Marsh and Tim Loughmiller

The team’s innovative teaching idea, “Blackout-No Technology,” is focused on helping students survive and excel without relying on modern conveniences. The team’s first step will be to help students recognize our society’s dependence on technology. To do this, the group will purchase pedometers to help students track and calculate the distance each of them live from school — to show students the challenge of getting to and from school in a world without technology. The students will also create survival brochures and packets to place at key locations across the county to raise awareness. Additionally, the school will host a “Blackout Day” where students will have to leave their electronics at home. The project culminates with students camping overnight at a local YMCA, which will focus on team building, communication skills and survival activities. The goal is to empower students to have confidence in themselves without relying on modern technology.