Don Wettrick

Don Wettrick is an education innovator and entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to the field of student entrepreneurship and innovation. He is the CEO and founder of The STARTedUP Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in June 2018.1 The foundation's mission is to empower student entrepreneurs and innovators through collaborative immersive experiences, accelerator programs, and seed funding for students under 20.1

Career Highlights

Wettrick's professional journey includes:

• Founder of StartEdUp Innovation, LLC (July 2016 - Present)1
• Educational Speaker specializing in innovation, entrepreneurship, and social media integration in education1
• Innovation Coordinator at Noblesville Schools (February 2014 - May 2020)1
• Television Advisor and Innovations Class Teacher at Franklin Community High School (August 2008 - February 2014)1

Educational Approach

Wettrick is known for his innovative teaching methods and focus on entrepreneurship in education. He advocates for a "new normal" for students, encouraging them to look for ways to add value rather than simply passing tests and chasing grades.3 His approach involves:

• Teaching students to turn problems into solutions2
• Emphasizing the power of innovation and creativity in the classroom1
• Integrating project-based learning models with a focus on real-world innovations1

Achievements and Recognition

• Two-time Microsoft Innovative Educator award winner1
• Author of "Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Collaboration"1
• International speaker and presenter on educational innovation4

Through his work with The STARTedUP Foundation and his various educational initiatives, Don Wettrick continues to champion the cause of innovation and entrepreneurship in education, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.