The EdVenture Group was established in June 2001 as part of the Monongalia County Schools Foundation. Under the direction of it’s executive director, Lydotta Taylor, The EdVenture Group continued carrying out projects that were established under Mrs. Taylor’s guidance during her tenure at the WVHTC Foundation. The early projects of the organization focused on providing K-12 teachers with technology and training that they could use in their classroom, developing an on-line database of teacher-developed lesson plans and establishing community technology centers in schools throughout West Virginia.
During 2001 and 2002 the organization expanded professional development opportunities and began an expansion of the TOC Network. New efforts in the area of workforce related programs began during this time frame.
In January 2003, The EdVenture Group became an independent 501(c)(3) non profit organization to establish a more focused mission and expand the education programs into a larger geographic area. During this time, the company expanded consulting services and professional development efforts. The organization was also recognized as a member of the National Intermediary Network and continues in membership today linking with similar organizations recognized for their intermediary efforts across the nation.
In 2004, The EdVenture Group developed a strategy to focus on training and technology issues facing K-12 teachers and administrators. The organization also developed a strategic plan that refined their services into four core areas and outlined a systematic approach to expanding the company’s services into new geographic areas. New professional development opportunities continue to be developed and customized and include topics such as Utilizing Handhelds in the Classroom and Integrating Technology Tools in the Classroom.
Opportunities in the area of curriculum development expanded during this time frame with projects being completed with the WV Symphony Orchestra and the National Biometric Security Project.
To date, The EdVenture Group has expanded its consulting services into new markets in Southwestern Pennsylvania. These efforts include work in after school programs, professional development for educators and evaluation of educational projects. |