Planting the Seeds of Innovation in Education

Don Wettrick, a former teacher, is on a mission to teach the next generation of innovators. After finding inspiration in Daniel Pink's book Drive, Wettrick started his innovation class at Franklin High School, which led to his position as innovation coordinator at Noblesville High School. Unlike other schools that block social media sites, Noblesville allows students to use them, creating a transparent and open environment. Wettrick's class focuses on teaching creativity and risk-taking, with students identifying and developing their own projects, connecting with experts via technology and collaborating with others. The class has produced innovative products, like an app and hospital gowns, and has caught the attention of educators like Stanford University professor Tina Seelig. Wettrick's book, Pure Genius: Creating A Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level, details his unique curriculum and controversial approach to teaching innovation to children.