Students compete in third annual Hub City Innovation Cup

JACKSON, Tenn. — One local college welcomes high school students to pitch their ideas on how to initiate change in the Hub City.

Union University welcomes 7 high schools in the Jackson-Madison County School District to the third annual Innovation Cup.

This year’s theme is focused on early literacy.

“We thought this was an interesting topic because the many community leaders are thinking about this issue. We wanted to turn the issue over to high school students who are close in age to those they would be serving with these ideas and to see what they come up with. We’re interested to see what they develop,” said Colene Trent, associate professor economics for Union University.

Students have 24 hours to work together to present their idea to the experts in hopes to win the cup and prize money.

One expert works with the target age group on early literacy.

“We’re talking about early literacy and so being the principal at Nova Early Learning Center, I see literacy and that skill everyday used. So, I can definitely shine some light on what I see as a principal,” said Tisa Day, principal for Nova Early Learning Center.

One student from Madison Academic says she and her brother both benefited from ‘English as a Second Language’ programs.

“I use english everyday in my life and he is someone who will also be learning english in a household that does not speak english. So, I want to help and try to ease that transition into literacy for him and other kids that might be experiencing similar experiences,” said Heidi Elysayed, student.

The experts provide advice and insight on the topic.

“I am kind of hoping they tell us if they believe it will function well in our current society or if they think there are a few things we could tweak. I’m all for constructive criticism,” said Aubrey Reynolds, student.

Organizers share that they are thankful for their sponsors for another year of the Innovation Cup.

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