School think tank launches in Midland

Meta4 Inc., a new Midland nonprofit organization, aims to connect local classrooms with the knowledge and resources of the Great Lakes Bay Region’s businesses, industries and community organizations, according to a report from the Midland Daily News.

Five Midland residents started the organization: Christine Brillhart, Denyse Clayton, Darcy McMahon, Kristiina Pilnik and Cathie Stewart. They call themselves a “think tank for networking opportunities.”

Current projects include a math mentoring program, S.M.A.R.T., at Midland Public Schools that connects members of the scientific community with middle school students; a series of theatre classes as part of the after-school program at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Midland; and a “green energy” career program for students, which is under development with MITECH Plus for fall 2010.

In addition, Meta4, in collaboration with Creative 360 in Midland, is launching a children’s theatre arts program called The Flying Pig Theatre Academy, a 14-week program designed for 7- to 14-year-olds that opens Feb. 1.

Funding for Meta4 programs comes from grants, private donations, tuition and professional fees, and Meta4 also relies upon volunteers from the community to successfully implement programs. For more information, visit www.meta4edu.org.