An educational series that blends stories and a hands-on curriculum to transform education in our nation’s schools and prepare the next generation of scientists. Brought to you by Dr. Joe Licavoli, in partnership with the Verdigris Group. The Series is launching in 2025 with Stories & Semiconductors in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
“Being hailed as a model for Michigan schools to embrace in the state’s push to advance 21st-century learning and promote high-tech, advanced manufacturing careers.”
What is Stories &
Semiconductors?
Our first story is an educational program primarily funded by a Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) grant, to increase 4th grade students’ awareness of semiconductors and related industry careers. The curriculum will serve 20 school districts across five Western Upper Peninsula counties and two Intermediate School Districts.
Through an engaging storyline created by Dr. Joe Licavoli, students follow the adventure of 4th grade students who solve problems by learning about and building electronic devices. Joe, in partnership with the Verdigris Group, is creating a comprehensive curriculum.
Managed by the Copper Country ISD, the core program is MEDC-funded. Program expansions will be funded by sponsorships. Expansions will include field trip experiences, integration of local history, and hands on materials.
Educational Program Overview
THE STORY
5 fourth-grade students embark on a time-traveling adventure while chasing a meddlesome AI transformed into a cat. They’ll learn from engineers and scientists, visit local landmarks, technology companies, and build devices to help them catch the cat before it destabilizes the future. Their adventures help prepare them to build a better world once their adventures chasing the cat are over.
KEWEENAW HISTORY & FIELD TRIPS
The storyline incorporates local history through the story chapters and field trips to different locations in the Keweenaw that allow the demonstration of historic and modern electronics.
HANDS-ON LEARNING
The lessons will build upon one another in story, plot, and complexity, starting with properties of materials, moving into what, where, and how semiconductors are used today on a personal to global scale, then explaining electronics and circuits, and incorporating careers related to the semiconductor industry. Classes have story-themed science demonstrations and lesson plans.
Partners
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Dr. Joe Licavoli
Scientist & Educator
Joe is the creative force behind the Stories & Semiconductors program, leading story design, curriculum creation, and overall program structure.
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Copper Country ISD
Stories & Semiconductors Implementor
The CCISD, under the leadership of Emily Geiger and Steve Kass, are implementing the Storylines (Stories) and Semiconductors program across the Western U.P.
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MEDC
Grant Funder
The MEDC, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s MiSTEM Network funded core Stories & Semiconductors programming in the Western UP through a $201,000 grant.
Community Partners and Sponsors
