What do baseballs, robots; telescopes and chocolate have in common? They are part of a short roster of what Arizona’s first annual science and technology festival will bring people of all ages for family fun using science, technology and innovation. The nearly six-week-long ARIZONA SCITECH festival, taking place from late January through March 14, 2012, will showcase over 300 colorful events, demonstrations, tours, games, activities and workshops across the state featuring the career opportunities of the future and the latest technologies right here within our state’s borders. Arizona SciTech Festival

Education leaders from Maricopa County school districts and leaders from business and the community will come together at three upcoming symposiums to help shape plans for regional education support and service aimed at preparing all students in the county for college and career. For more information on the MCESA Regional Service and Support Symposiums, contact Dr. Lori Shough, MCESA Director of Education Innovation.

Individuals who have been nominated for appointment to a vacant school board seat by the local collaboration team in their school district, and whose names have been forwarded to the County Superintendent of Schools by February 17th, are required to attend a nominee seminar on Saturday, MARCH 3RD. The seminar will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pendergast Learning Center, 3841 N. 91st Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85037. Nominees and members of the collaboration team who will be attending should RSVP by Friday, February 17th, to MCESA Elections Specialist Hope Olguin at 602-506-3978 or Hope.Olguin@mcesa.maricopa.gov. The seminar, previously scheduled for February 18th, was rescheduled due to scheduling conflicts. Learn more.

MCESA’s Rewarding Excellence in Instruction and Leadership initiative engages six Maricopa County school districts in implementing systemic change aimed at transforming how schools recruit, retain, support, and compensate effective teachers and principals. The ultimate goal is building the capacity of educators to improve student learning. Learn more.