This year we had the opportunity to train 40 teachers in the California Invention Convention curriculum (see www.cainventionconvention.org).  The invention program asks students to solve a meaningful problem in their own lives and come up with an invention for the solution. Students became empowered to think divergently, work collaboratively, develop creative thinking skills, and become innovative thinkers.  These are the very skills that are needed to make them successful individuals for the rest of their lives. And so this year’s journey began.  Wonderful inventions appeared, in answer to the problems students expressed. Many of the winners went onto local science fairs. In April,  60 finalists will compete at the state competition where 6 young inventors will be chosen to continue onto the National Invention Convention and Entrepreneurship Expo (NICEE – see www.stemie.org) along with their chaperones, to be held near Washington DC at the US Patent and Trade Office in Alexandria VA. (pictured are last year’s finalists at the event). Won’t you please help in this endeavor?  This is our pilot year for the state California Invention Convention competition.  Our goal is to have 1,000,000 students become involved with this meaningful curriculum, throughout the state, over the next several years.  We are hoping to raise $25,000 this year, to send our six students and their to attend and compete at the National Convention.  It will be an experience they will never forget.  The cost is approximately $2500 per student and chaperone, for airfare, hotel for three nights, registration, and expenses.  Thank you, in advance, for considering helping us with this worthwhile experience for children!