Madras HS students invited to attend TEDx Bend

“I just perked up, and was like — TED Talks?” said Madras High School student Maxwell Armithee.

Some students at Madras High already know and love TEDx – a global set of conferences under the slogan “ideas worth spreading.”

“I’m very excited,” said Madras High School student Bryce Williams.

Others might not yet.

“At first, I didn’t even know what it was,” said Cecelia Andy, a student at Madras High School.

That’s all changing, because a few lucky students are getting the chance to go to TEDx Bend.

“I’m a big believer in seeking out my own knowledge,” said Williams.

About 200 students and teachers from all over Central Oregon will join them, all part of TEDx Bend’s new outreach program.

“Ultimately TEDx Bend is about really inspiring the entire community,” said Paul Evers, co-curator for TEDx Bend. “And we can’t do that unless we do some sort of outreach.”

It’s a rare opportunity, especially for those students in rural communities.

“We don’t get many opportunities like this. I think it’s a really great experience,” said Madras High student Sophie Gemelas.

“Being willing to think outside the box and TED talks is all about that,” said Sarah Braman-Smith, principal at Madras High School. “We’re hopeful the students that are able to participate will take ideas from TED talks and bring them back and apply that to their education.”

Preparations for TEDx at Bend High are under full swing and High Desert and teachers are excited for the curtain to lift.

“I’m really into expanding my knowledge. And um…deepening my understanding over any…just about any subject I can learn about. “

TedX Bend is Saturday from 1-6 p.m. at Bend High School. It’s sold out, but will be streamed online at http://www.tedxbend.com.