PORTSMOUTH — Students in grades 11-12 who are currently enrolled in a state-approved Tech Prep program in Pike, Lawrence, Scioto and Adams counties will have an opportunity to register and perhaps be chosen to represent their school in the 2010 Ohio South Showcase.

The showcase will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 23, in the Shawnee State University James A. Rhodes Athletic Center.

Tech Prep is a combined secondary and post-secondary program that provides students with an easy transition from high school to college. Students work in teams or individually to develop projects related to their Tech Prep high school programs.

The judges will rate the student projects as superior, excellent or good and medals and certificates will be given out to participants at an awards ceremony closing the showcase.

“Each project will be judged according to its own merits and in compliance with the following criteria: knowledge achieved, demonstration of technical skill, presentation skills (written and/or oral), integration of industry/community organizations and overall effect,” Ohio South Tech Prep Director Rita Graf said.

Tech Prep prepares students for high demand technical careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, education and the medical professions that are key to Ohio’s economic development.

Tech Prep provides a hands-on, real world approach to teaching and learning that includes team work, worksite experiences, critical thinking and problem solving.

“There are a lot of behind-the-scenes preparations that go into an event such as showcase,” Graf said. “I personally feel that it is important to give students an opportunity to shine.”

The Tech Prep Showcase competition provides a place where students can show their knowledge and skills with the projects they build.

For more information, contact Graf at (740) 351-3370 or e-mail rgraf@shawnee.edu.