Ice House Program teaches local students problem-solving skills, entrepreneurship

All semester long, seventh-grade students in Erie Public Schools were identifying problems and potential solutions.

They were taking part in the district’s Ice House Program.

The program, which teaches students an entrepreneurial mindset, had its culminating event at Strong Vincent Middle School on Wednesday.

The students presented their ideas on-stage in the auditorium and in a gallery walk in the gym, all with the goal of building skills that will keep them curious and looking for opportunities.  

“Through the process, they’re developing their soft skills. They’re becoming leaders. They’re learning how to communicate. They’re learning how to collaborate,” said David Cross, a 7th grade teacher and Ice House trainer.

“We created a device called ‘button of life’ which would save animal lives from overheating in cars,” shared Matthew Miller, a 7th grader.

The students said the program also helped them overcome their fear of public speaking.