January 9: Rainbow students participate in first ever I.C.E. Challenge

Grade 8 to 12 students from Rainbow Schools will showcase their originality when they participate in the first ever Innovative, Creative, Entrepreneurial (I.C.E.) Challenge pilot project on Friday, January 9, 2015. The event, taking place from 9:30 am to 2 pm, is being hosted by the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI) in the auditorium at the Willet Green Miller Centre.

Students will identify a common everyday problem, then develop a product-based solution. Students can improve an existing product, create a brand new product, or present their ideas using visual aids.

“Many of us like to think we have that one brilliant solution to problems we face on a daily basis,” says Leo Leclair, Specialist High Skills Major Program Coordinator with Rainbow District School Board. “With the I.C.E Challenge, students can think creatively and put their concepts to the test.”

Participants will develop a display booth to illustrate their idea or product, much like a tradeshow. They will be called upon to convince the judges that their idea or product should be developed above all others.

The Best Overall Product will be awarded the grand prize of a $10,000 NORCAT Innovation Mill mentorship. Other prize categories include Best Functional Prototype, Best Non-Functional Prototype, Best Prototype by Design, Best Innovative Idea, Best Creative Idea and Peers Choice Award. Prizes range from cash to gift cards.

In order to protect the intellectual capital of all participants, the event is not open to the public or parents/guardians.

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Media Contact:

Leo Leclair, Specialist High Skills Major Program Coordinator
Rainbow District School Board, 705-523-3308 ext. 8203.