Editor,
The foundation of any successful business is its human capital…its people. Today’s employers seek employees that have initiative, adaptability, confidence, creativity, ability to solve problems and solid communications skills. These soft skills are equally as important as the hard-skill knowledge (i.e. accounting, welding, engineering, programing, etc.)
Over the past several years, coincidentally the years since the passage of Noblesville’s last school operational referendum, the Noblesville Schools administration and its teacher staff have gone to extraordinary efforts to listen to employers to better understand what it takes to be successful in our economy. This connection between employers and educators, facilitated by our city and school leaders, has sparked action and innovation at every grade level.
The “Miller Shift” is real and is evident. We have seen firsthand the ongoing transformation of the Noblesville Schools to an environment of learning for the 21st century. Elementary school students are developing business and marketing plans. Middle schools students are learning computer programming, robotics and 3D printing. High schools students are fostering innovation in technology, civic engagement and leadership. Approximately one-third of high school seniors are engaged in internships with local businesses, gaining real-life experience and career exploration. Noblesville Schools is equipping individual students, our future workforce, with the skills, experience and knowledge needed to pursue their unique and individualized career path.
This is why the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce supports the continuation of local funding through the May 3 referendum. It is in the best interest of all employers in Noblesville, but most importantly, it is in the best interest of our children. They are our future workforce.
Bob DuBois
President/CEO
Noblesville Chamber of Commerce