2015 OWL TechFair Showcases Young Talent

From graphic design to movie-making to robotic demos and contests, OpenWorld Learning (OWL) students showcased their best projects for the public—and earned some nifty prizes, too. The 6th annual OWL TechFair featured work that could simultaneously dazzle, as well as demonstrate that these youngsters are on the road to bright futures.

Getting ready for a pre-competition tryout

This year’s event featured projects created by youngsters from Denver, Aurora and Jefferson County schools. Elementary students put together an e-portfolio of computer projects focusing on games and web work, while middle-schoolers concentrated on robotics, movie-making and graphic design. Overall, students were able to integrate computer technology along with art, along with reading, writing and math concepts. An OWL rep said that 47 percent of students were female, 87 percent are eligible for reduced-lunch programs and 53 percent use English as a second language.

Between staff, volunteers, parents and supporters, and bright minds from grades 3 to 8, almost 600 people participated in the fair held on Saturday, April 25, at Industry Denver. The date coincided with Comcast Cares Day, so around 100 volunteers represented the event sponsor. Stella Peterson, of Stella Marketing + PR, and State Rep. Joe Salazar served as co-emcees for the awards presentations, and OWL’s CEO, Lea Ann Reitzig, as well as Comcast rep Macio Alston also addressed the crowd.

Co-emcee Stella Peterson (left) with CEO Lea Ann Reitzig

Tech Challenge Winners:
Eagleton Elementary School

Robo Challenge Winners:
1st place: Giselle Florencio (Kepner Middle School)
2nd place: Tevita Fifita & Jacob Woods (Aurora Vista Peak Exploratory School)
3rd place: Adamma West (Aurora Vista Peak Exploratory School)

OpenWorld Learning was founded by Chris Myers in 2000 to provide a fun and challenging after-school educational program centered on teaching advanced computer technology to Denver area students. Its mission statement: to support children’s school success by tapping the power of digital technology and peer teaching to develop leadership and ignite a love of learning. One local publication honored OWL as Denver’s top non-profit of 2012. Programs offered include OWL Summer Tech Camp, with scholarships available for students on free and reduced-lunch programs. For more information, please visit: http://www.openworldlearning.org