Member of Dean’s Advisory Board
School of Education
August 1, 2009
Tiger Woods Learning Center Executive Director Leads an Innovative Curriculum
Since opening its doors in 2006, the Tiger Woods Learning Center (TWLC) has also opened a world of wider opportunities for kids across Orange County. Perhaps most excited about the progress being made, is TWLC Executive Director Kathy Bihr.
Kathy joined the TWLC team in ‘05 with a breadth of experience and innovative ideas. As the Principal and Director of a public middle school, Kathy experienced first-hand the challenges and constraints of the public school system. She has applied the valuable lessons she learned in the halls and classrooms of public school, to the interactive learning environment at the TWLC.
In developing the TWLC curriculum, Kathy wanted to balance rigorous academics with experiential, hands-on learning in a supportive environment. “We’re showing kids how to put the concepts they learn in school into practice,” says Kathy. For instance, students interested in becoming engineers discover how to apply geometry to build a model of a bridge. “This allows them to see the relevance of what they’re learning, and how it applies to their own lives and interests.”
Unlike more rigid school programs, the TWLC curriculum responds and adapts to the kids’ interests. As an example, Kathy points out the Business Entrepreneurship and Health and Fitness Programs, two exciting new programs built around the students’ needs.
When asked if she’s seen a positive response from TWLC students, Kathy says she has. “Teachers tell us that attendance is up and attitudes have improved. The kids are excited about what they’re learning.”
When asked about her own experience at the TWLC, Kathy shares her students’ enthusiasm.
We worked long and hard to develop this curriculum and get the TWLC up and running. It’s been a huge growth experience for me, in every way. Seeing these kids discover their potential has been incredibly rewarding. For all of us.
Main page photograph: Katherine Bihr, Ed.D., Vice President and Executive Director of the Tiger Woods Learning Center, accepts the 2008-2009 award for Partners in Educational Excellence from Board Members of the Association of California School Administrators. The award is given annually to organizations that provides excellent supplemental support to California School Districts.