Creston CAST
Authentic Learning @ Creston
Creston Communication and Service Technology (CAST) began as a pilot program with Creston CSD and Green Hills AEA. This partnership allowed both organizations an opportunity to embed project based learning into a classroom using real world projects as curriculum. This pilot also included the implementation of two redesigned learning environments designed to increase engagement and foster collaboration among students. A wide variety of technology opportunities fill the CAST classroom providing students with exposure to innovative technology tools to assist them in delivering high quality deliverables. There are currently 7 sections of CAST at Creston High School offered as an elective credit in a block style schedule. Students have the opportunity to take this course multi year. Current enrollment for this program is approximately 80 high school students.
CAST students also operate Panther TV, a partnership with KSIB Radio in Creston, Iowa. Students are responsible for a wide variety of broadcasting productions, commercials, daily announcements and other media production opportunities. Part of the program expansion last year included the implementation of a student ran printing business. Students design and print a wide array of graphic designs such as; banners, posters, photos, programs and more.
In 2019 the special education department launched a student ran mobile coffee cart, The Panther Perk. It allows the students in Mr. Scott's class to engage in real world experiences through its operation. They learn how to run a small business, work on their employability skills and have the opportunity to provide a service to their school community. For more information about the Panther Perk please contact Stephanie Lane (itdirector@crestonschools.org)
Project Spotlight
Panther Reading Corner
Panther Perk
CAST Printing
CAST printing is a student-ran business within the CAST classroom at Creston High School. Students who work for CAST printing are proficient with canva and photoshop to create posters, graphics, logos, and other designs for customers. With the use of our large-scale printer, customers can have their custom work printed.
Panther TV
CAST has partnered with KSIB radio to offer an authentic learning opportunity for students at Creston High School.
KSIB Radio project goals: student generated
KSIB landing page - listeners/viewers are able to access district events
Expose students to broadcasting
Event live streaming
Commercials/Advertisements
Pregame/Hype/Highlight productions
Potential commercial/advertisement projects with other area business partners: used during your streaming events
Student Entrepreneurs
The Crossing is a student ran mobile retail store that offers Panther apparel with the intentions of adding other student created merchandise. This project started as an opportunity for 4 high school students to research and development a small startup business. The role of The Crossing is to provide the community with a wide variety of school pride merchandise. To learn more about their journey click here.
The Crossing has expanded their design work and have a custom line they have created for each activity this winter. They will also have specialty holiday sweaters, earrings, and ornaments for sale at the community market in December.
Follow their journey or reach out to the executive team via; Twitter: @CrossingTeam19 or Facebook: @thecrossingteam.
To Learn More Contact:
Maggie Arnold, Classroom Facilitator
Stephanie Lane, Green Hills AEA Authentic Learning