UnMAZED
February 2019
MAGAZINE
A Teen's Guide to High School Academic Programs
School Choice Collegiate Private Home School & Other Options
C O N T E N T S Teen's Guide to Academic Programs February 2019 Featured: 8 Education Our Way 13 Creating a Healing Home 16 Taco Tuesdays 18 Your Guide to High School Acceleration 20 Ask the Expert: School Options 23 Homeschool Hybrid 26 Counselor's Corner: International Baccalaureate 28 Student Voice: My Journey from IB to a Full Ride 30 So You Want to Dual Enroll? 32 Stretching the Educational Box 34 Educational Research: Dual Enrollment 36 High School Program Terminology
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4
UNMAZED MAGAZINE: EDITOR LETTER
Letter from the Editor
By: Dr. Amanda Sterk, Senior Editor and Founder of UnMazed Magazine asterk@unmaze.me
This has to be one of my favorite topics to share with
unbiased assessment of how your student learns, what
parents and teens. Every day I am honored to be part of
their academic and career goals are, and what extra-
families lives as they make decisions about a student’s
curricular activities connect them to the school and
academic and career path. As I read all the articles sent
community.
in, it reminds me how many opportunities there are for students today to find their own path to success. These
2) How can my student make the most of their
multiple pathways can often be confusing to parents
educational opportunity to reach their goal? No matter
and teens as each program seems to state theirs is
what your student’s goal is in life, a world-renowned
better or will get the student farther. The Teen’s Guide
scientist, a physical therapist, a welder, or business
to Academic Programs provides many perspectives
owner, there are multiple opportunities to start
from educators, parents, and students.
exploring those careers in high school. Take advantage of courses that engage your student’s and sets them up
From the articles on Dual Enrollment and an Early
to be successful after high school graduation. Be sure to
College,
International
ask early and often what academic programs exists to be
Baccalaureate programs, each program has its own
sure nothing is missed (deadlines, testing, new programs,
strengths and weaknesses. As you go through the
etc).
to
homeschool,
and
process there are some key things to ask yourself; 3) Be involved! Working together and having 1) Where is my student going to excel both
authentic conversations about current and future goals
academically and personally? Each student is unique,
is important. Often students do not know what
and just because a sibling or friend did one program and
questions to ask or go along with what friends are doing.
thrived, it does not mean your student will. Do an
Be sure to ask questions of both your student and the school to make sure your questions are answered.
FEBRUARY 2019, ISSUE 10, UNMAZED MAGAZINE
Magazine articles and more can be found at www.unmaze.me Where Florida experts meet for teen success.
Contact us: We enjoy hearing from from parents, students, and educators throughout the state. Send us your photos, letters, or comments to asterk@unmaze.me. Or visit us online: www.unmaze.me Do you want to collaborate? This magazine is designed for educators across the state to share their expertise on a variety of topics. We welcome those who would like to participate in creating this resource.
5
UnMazed Where Experts Meet for Teen Success
Editor SENIOR EDITOR
Amanda Sterk, Ed.D., is CEO of Florida Center for Educational Planning and author of College UnMazed: Your Guide Through the Florida College & University System. She currently works at Florida SouthWestern State College as Director of Accelerated Programs.. Dr. Sterk has been an educator for 20 years as a teacher, school counselor, and administrator. She is founder of the Florida teen resource, www.unmaze.me.Â
www.unmaze.me
Contributing Writers 13
16
20 23 26
28
32
Aimee Carlson, Healing Homes, Walk with Aimee as an accidental opportunity yields the best discoveries of her life. From successful franchise owner to Network Marketing Professional. Aimee has spent the last 4 years improving her health naturally and empowering families to do the same. You matter, Your family matters.
Gabriella Baltodano is a striving Music Therapist and seeks out positivity for other people. With her life, she yearns to make the world better little by little and cause a "butterfly effect". Her motto is "a smile makes someone's day better." One of Gabi's long term goals is to travel and learn about different cultures while bring her knowledge with her to make the lives of others better.
Rob Hicks, M.Ed.,has worked in public schools for 16 years. He is a school counselor at Fernandina Beach High School and the Ogburn School. He maintains the "Getting My Guide On" blog about all things school counselor at guidey.blogspot.com and writes about local history.
Keisha Wright, is the principal at Crosspointe Academy and is passionate about student's educational journeys. She seeks to enrich the lives of the students and parents she serves every day.
Katelyn Uhler, graduated from FGCU in 2007 with a BA in Psychology and in 2010 with a MA in Counseling. She has been a school counselor at Cape Coral High School for 5 years and transitioned into the role of IB coordinator in the fall of 2018. Katelyn is passionate about the IB diploma program and working with students to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Mary Brady is a senior in Cape Coral, Florida. She excels s in the International Baccalaureate program, with a focus on STEM where she wants to pursue a degree in medical technology. Mary is active in Model United Nations, lacrosse, and is part of the Science National Honor Society ad multiple volunteering organizations. She will be attending Rice University post-secondary.
Leigh Shein performs, directs and teaches improv to all ages including kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders. He previously consulted internationally and served in the Federal Government.
Do you have a passion for teen success? Would you like to write for an innovative magazine written by educators across the state? Connect with us today! http://www.unmaze.me/collaborators-3/
8
UNMAZED MAGAZINE: FEATURED
Education Our Way How the #1 Public High School in the State Does Things Differently By: Amanda Sterk, EdD, Senior Editor of UnMazed Magazine In Building T on the Florida SouthWestern State
Student success comes at the intersection of what
College, you will find a high school that is not like
the parents want with the student’s idea of I want
any other high school in state. Florida SouthWestern
to be successful’ states Dr. Botts. We believe in a
Collegiate High School-Lee (FSWC-Lee) has decided
growth and grades mindset. It’s too shallow of a
to do education their way, and it is working with a
goal to simply strive for the A’s or the B’s but not
number one ranking according to the Florida
willing to grow academically and personally. If I had
Department of Education. Dr. Brian Botts, principal
to pick a focus, it would be on getting students to
of FSWC-Lee, states, We believe we are the on-
grow as young academics….If a student trusts and
ramp to a student’s academic future. We take that
invests in our process and allows the growth to
very seriously.
happen, the grades will come.
Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) has two
Written on the walls of the school is the school’s
early college high schools, one located on their
slogan of Work to Learn; Learn to Lead which is a
Charlotte campus and Lee campus. Both schools
cornerstone to what they do every day from their
were designed as an early college experience where
physical education class to world history. By
students learn the requisite skills in a small school
creating a rich interconnected curriculum that is
setting for their ninth and tenth grade, and
data driven and evidence-based, teachers are able
matriculate to FSW for a full-time early admission
to
college program where students can earn an
instruction. In an open enrollment system where
associate of arts degree before they graduate high
anyone can apply, we need to know what types of
school.
Within the state, early admissions or
support our students will need; as an example, One
collegiate programs are on the rise but programs
of our teachers went through and pulled all data for
like FSWC - Lee take this concept to another level.
students who completed our program with an AA
Just a few minutes of chatting with a student,
degree. This process helped us know and plan for
teacher, or staff member will help one see that they
the reality that students who didn’t have a 3 or
are deliberately creating an environment that
higher on their seventh-grade math end-of-course
supports students who are naturally inquisitive, pay
exam will need extra support to succeed. Besides
attention to detail, and wants to ask and answer
looking at this large-scale type of data for
compelling questions to excel.
programmatic decisions, they do the same thing
use
meaningful
student
data
to
inform
AMANDA STERK
Dr. Brian Botts, Principal of Florida SouthWestern Collegiate High School in Fort Myers, Fl. when looking at student learning outcomes in a
Besides a number one ranking in the state, the school’s
course or grade level. Our teachers analyze and
focus on college-readiness skills is working and paying off
discuss daily where students are weak and need
in big ways. Recently, Florida Gulf Coast announced that
additional
their
students who graduate from one of the FSW Collegiate
instruction or provide additional peer tutoring
High Schools with their AA degree will receive a $5,000 a
support to hone in on the needed skills so the
year scholarship for up to three years. Last year the two
students are successful, explains Dr. Botts on how
schools had a combined $10 million worth of scholarships
their teachers approach instructional decisions
and alumni have attended top Ivy League schools and
differently. Unlike large schools, we are able to be
many in-state and out-of-state colleges. In the end, what
flexible to individual student needs and provide
makes us unique is that we believe in the 3 C’s; Critical
tasks that they are ready for, not what some
thinking, Communication, and Collaboration. With those,
standardized curriculum demands.
our students will be successful in and out of school.
assistance.
They
then
adjust
9
FSW Collegiate is a small school of choice school that focuses on a rigorous STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) curriculum for 9th and 10th grade year to prepare students for an early admission college program at Florida SouthWestern State College to obtain an associates of arts degree while still in high school. FSWC-Lee uses an open enrollment, lottery system.
Key Terminology: Early Admissions, collegiate, public, charter, small school of choice (see page 38 for more)
Finding Your Path to Success Wednesday, February 27th 6:00-8:00 pm SW Florida Community Foundation Collaboratory 2031 Jackson Street, Suite 100 Fort Myers, FL
HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
COLLEGE & CAREER EXPLORATION
Talk with local area high schools and programs about academic programs that promote student success.
Hear from educational experts on how to be college and career ready. Topics include; Test Prep, Financial Planning for College, Scholarships, College Fit, Admissions, and more!
30+ colleges, technical schools, and educational experts on hand to answer you questions about the college process.
REGISTER HERE WWW.UNMAZE.ME/ EVENTS
WEBINAR
Girl Safety: Educating Parents and Students on Situational Awareness (Link)
AIMEE CARLSON 13 We’ve all been there, that central calendar looks like a carefully color-coded military mission control center! As a mom, trying to keep everything running like a well-
CREATING A HEALING HOME
oiled machine, this is a never-ending, daunting mostly thankless job!! Who’s got time to focus on healthy snacks, preventing illness and what’s sleep??? But let’s look at the facts. It’s staggering the overall physical and emotional health of our kids these days. We are a society of what ever is easiest, and I personally feel this is hurting us and our future generations. Here are just some of the sobering facts. We as a society are overweight. In a recent study, since the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, the average American
By: Aimee Carlson, Healing Homes
has put on 15 or more additional pounds without getting any taller. Being overweight increases chances of type 2 diabetes, coronary disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, respiratory problems and the list goes on. How about our mental state? 5.1 million children have a current diagnosis of ADHD. That’s one in 11 in the age group 4-17 years old, according to the A.D.D Resource Center. According to the Medical Press, the percentage of children diagnosed with ADHD has nearly doubled, with the US significantly higher than other developed countries. From the American Cancer Society, 10,590 children in the United States under the age of 15 will be diagnosed with cancer in 2018. The rate of increase in children is 24% since the 1970’s. These
numbers
and
statistics
as
parents
and
grandparents should scare us, and put us into action!! I know for me, I want better for my kids and grandkids. So what do we do? How can we make a change within the four walls of our home? The first thing I would recommend is to start reading labels. I’m not just talking about the food labels here, you need to know what is in the products in your home. Some of our everyday products are actually contributing to these statistics!!
14 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: FEATURED I made a change in our home over 3 years ago. When I
A healing home starts with us and understanding how
switched my laundry detergent and what I cleaned my
we can make better choices. You can check out my
home with, I stopped having headaches. I made a lot of
website at www.aimeecarlson.com and sign up for my
changes that took almost 2 years to get our homes
FREE monthly newsletter where I share tips and recipes
harmful chemical free. The difference is night and day.
on creating a healing home. I’m happy to help you take
We have increased energy, better sleep, we aren’t sick
control of you and your family’s health and wellness. It
like we used to be. Today we are proactive about our
all starts with one step!
health instead of responding to a symptom. It started
with one step and continued to embrace what we put on
our bodies as well as in them.
Walk with Aimee as an accidental opportunity yields the best discoveries of her life. From successful franchise
I am passionate about empowering families with not just
owner to Network Marketing Professional. Aimee has
knowledge, but simple effective strategies to create a
spent the last 4 years improving her health naturally and
healthy healing home that our families can thrive in.
empowering families to do the same. You matter, Your family matters.
Top Household Ingredients to Avoid 1. Synthetic Colors - found in foods and cosmetics 2. Fragrance - found in personal care, laundry and household cleaning products. 3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)- causes products to suds. 4. Toluene - found in nail polish, hair color/treatments, stain removers. 5. Propylene Glycol - found in moisturizers, sunscreen, make up, conditioners, shampoo, hairspray, mouthwash & deodorants. 6. Phthalates - found in deodorants, perfumes, hair spray, moisturizers, air fresheners, laundry detergent.
What is UnMazed: 40+
18,000
125+
Monthly Readers
Articles, Videos & Webinars
Contributors
UnMazed (www.unmaze.me) started as one school counselor's mission to bring quality, expert resources to high school students and parents across Florida for teen success in academics, college and career, and social/ emotional needs. After launching UnMazed Magazine, a digital publication that reaches over 4,000 school counselors monthly, it has grown to over 40+ expert contributors across the state and nationally. In it's first month of publication, it was read and shared over 18,000 times and is continuing to grow daily.
COMMUNITY RESOURCE DIRECTORY Teen Resources - Academic Support - Personal/ Social Support - Volunteering/ Internships - Programs & Clubs College & Career Resources - High School Planning - College & Career Planning - Scholarships & Financial Aid - Colleges & Universities - Career & Technical Programs Community Resources - Family Support - Educational - Teen Event Planning - Organizational Support
MAGAZINE DIRECTORY WEBSITE WEBINARS
UnMazed is your Community Resource for Florida teen issues. www.unmaze.me
16
UNMAZED MAGAZINE: STUDENT VOICE
TACO Tuesdays Aren't Always About Food By: Gabriella Baltodano, Andrew's Anthem
GABRIELLA BALTODANO 17
Eventually you can branch this into a daily habit, maybe use it whenever you need a little pick me up because your emotions are being too much of a hassle that specific day. Recently, I have started trying to get into the habit of
odd, gives me a different perspective on the world around
taking care of myself (I assure you this blog isn't about
me. I can feel the soft breeze, the sun on my skin, and the
having a junk food day). I've realized that taking care of
sounds of nature's beauty fills me. Sitting on my roof or on
your mental health and loving yourself should be a priority.
my hammock outside is the most relaxing for me.
There are many ways to do this, some that take no more than 5 minutes. Taking a day to simply take care of
The next 5 minute break you can get, go sit outside and
yourself, unwind, and step away from your everyday
look at the trees, listen to the cars pass, feel the texture of
routine is important.
everything around you, feel the temperature as it passes
across your skin. Take deep breaths, relax your shoulders
My therapist and I created this idea called TACO Tuesdays.
and just let go of the burdens that have been bothering
This would make any regular person think of eating tacos
you all day/week. Slip into your senses and away from the
for dinner every Tuesday evening, but it is quite different.
billions of things on your mind.
"TACO"
is
an
acronym
for
"Taking
Advantage
of
Comforting Opportunities". It may not be the best title, but
Think about the day of the week that is the most stress
you have to give me some slack as I thought of it in less
filled for you. Make a silly acronym for it that only you'll
than 30 seconds. We created this in order to get me into a
understand, it doesn't have to take much of your brain
habit of taking time out of my stressful day and unwinding.
power. Make it a priority, a habit, to take care of yourself
Wednesdays and Thursdays are usually problem days for
on that day for a little bit. Eventually you can branch this
me when it comes to my motivation. I tire myself out
into a daily habit, maybe use it whenever you need a little
completely on the first two days of the school week and do
pick me up because your emotions are being too much of
not give myself enough time to take care of myself. This
a hassle that specific day. This will make you a happier
causes me to not want to get out of bed the rest of the
person-- knowing to take care of yourself is a wonderful
school days afterwards. So, we created TACO Tuesdays to
trait. Do what works for you, that helps you step away
combat this.
from the stress of the outside world for a couple of minutes. When you go back to the "real world" you will
A few things I have done on past TACO Tuesdays include:
feel much more refreshed.
reading a book, making tea, listening to relaxing music,
playing instruments, coloring, taking baths, and sitting on
Writing of the Week: A Day Away by Maya Angelou
my roof. I often combine many of these. I try to do as many as I can-- depending on how much work I have. For
If this was even slightly eye-opening to you, feel free to
example, when I read I usually always have music playing
share with your friends or people who need it. You can
softly in the background and have a tea or hot chocolate to
contact me at gabriella@andrewsanthem.org
drink. Sitting on my roof, though it sounds dangerous and
18 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: INFOGRAPHIC
Your Guide to High School Acceleration High school students have great opportunities to obtain free college credits even before graduating high school! Today, Florida provides many opportunities for students to accelerate their learning through various high school programming. Earning college credit in high school is beneficial for multiple reasons.
Career Focus Time Savings In Florida, it was found that less than 67 percent of Florida college students graduate in six years, according to the Florida Board of Governor’s Accountability Rate. While not widely discussed, college is taking longer to get through as students change their degrees, have trouble meeting prerequisites, or enter programs that change their requirements. Having a student be able to focus on the generalized core courses or electives to determine their major, these credits can save students a substantial amount of time and stress.
Rigor & Independence Acceleration courses allow students to be treated as college-students. Students learn to better navigate the academic skills, such as time management, study skills, test preparation, and note taking, to be a more successful student. Having both rigor and independence can be highly motivating for students to excel.
The college course work allows students to see how they might enjoy specific career fields. Advanced lab reports, research, hands-on projects, and indepth teaching provides more opportunities for exploration into various career fields. DualEnrollment often offers industry certifications that can be directly employable after high school or with additional semester or two.
Cost Savings School districts often pick up the tab for tuition and books. Sometimes there are some small fees, but at a fraction of the cost what a student would pay after graduating high school, including room and board, tuition, fees, books, and other expenses.
Smaller Classes Taking these courses in high school or on a state college's campus guarantees small numbers and more personalized attention.
Ad anced Placement- implemented ) the College Boa d, a e standa d cu iculum cou ses taught ) high school teache s. Students a e gi en an end-of-the- ea test, that p o ides them a sco e f om - . Based on this sco e, colleges and uni e sities dete mine if college c edit can )e ea ned.. O e . million students o ld ide a e e pected to take up to million e ams this ea .
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
a. St engths- AP is one the la gest and oldest accele ation methods. It gi es oppo tunities fo all t pes of students to take singleton cou ses fo potential college c edits. College c edits a e often gi en fo ce tain sco es, )ut not all uni e sities accept AP c edits. Students can take cou ses the a e st onge in athe than a hole p og am. ). Weaknesses- While the student ma do ell in the class oom en i onment, some students st uggle on the e tensi e standa dized test. As ell, colleges ha e diffe ing sco es needed to o)tain college c edit. Fo mo e info mation a)out AP options- isit CollegeBoa d
Cam) idge AICE and Inte national Baccalau eate- 0he AICE and IB p og ams a e simila in cu iculum st uctu e ith an emphasis on intellectual igo , high academic standa ds, and st ong emphasis on citizenship. Students often appl in th g ade ith standa dized test sco es, application, and possi)le inte ie .
AICE CAMBRIDGE & INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
a. St engths- Cou ses taught in the high school setting, )ut )ecomes a schoolithin-a-school setting as onl a select num)e of students ma ente the p og am. Students ma ea n up to c edits th ough passage of the final, standa dized test. 0he p og ams a e inte nationall ecognized. Cu entl students ho ea n the AICE o IB diploma a e eligi)le fo the B ight Futu es Flo ida Academic Schola s full-tuition schola ship. ). Weaknesses- AICE and IB a e e t emel igo ous, st uctu ed, iting intensi e p og ams. Some students do not th i e academicall in this t pe of en i onment, some do.
DE cou ses a e college cou ses that can )e utilized in th ee a s; on a high school campus ith a c edentialed p ofesso , online th ough the college, o at the college campus. 7nlike the othe p og ams, dual en ollment students ha e to meet state e ui ements of a . un eighted g ade point a e age and specific test sco es on standa dized tests like the PER0, AC0, o SA0 https:// .fs .edu/dualen ollment .
DUAL ENROLLMENT
a. St engths- Flo ida statute e ui es all c edits ith passing g ades to t ansfe to a fou - ea uni e sit o college. Coupled ith the same cou se num)e s stem th oughout Flo ida, t ansfe a)ilit is simple. College cou ses a e also ) semeste , so students can ea n c edits at a faste ate than othe accele ation methods that a e ea long, such as AP, AICE, and IB. DE students ha e full access to the college’s esou ces, such as the li) a , academic esou ce cente s, tuto ing, acti ities, and Hono ’s P og am. ). Weaknesses-Students a e t eated as a college student and a e e pected to ha e academic independence. Student’s a e c eating thei college official t ansc ipt.
20 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: ASK THE EXPERT
Ask the Expert By Rob Hicks, School Counselor at Fernandina Beach High School, Author of Guidey.Blogspot.com
I am looking at different school opportunities to teach my student. I need help figuring out what to do.
ROB HICKS In today’s educational landscape there are many different options through which one can attend school. Understanding these options can be a daunting task for a parent as their differences can be slight and vocabulary unfamiliar. The difference in a program a family chooses to use can carry slightly different names but vary greatly in result. So, let’s take a close look at some of the different programs available and some of their key differences.
private and public online schools. Some of the public ones are run by the district. In today’s educational landscape there are many different options through which one can attend school. Understanding these options can be a , some by the state, some by the school, and some by third party vendors. The biggest difference here is that these institutions
will
award
a
diploma.
Students
attending an online school do not have the same
Perhaps, the most confusing term related to school choice relates to home school. That is because students and parents often use that term to describe any time spent enrolled at a school that doesn’t
autonomy that a homeschooled might have in choosing their curriculum, but they do have considerable flexibility in when and where they attend class.
"There is a lot more to consider and a lot more in ol ed hen choosing to become homeschooled or taking school online." happen at a school. However, families are often using this term too generically. This is sort of like someone saying I’ll have a coke when they really mean they’re going to have any type of soda, not necessarily a Coca-Cola that comes in the bright red can. To be precise, the term home school means the parent is controlling what is taught to the student. If they want to spend 6 hours a day teaching about the cultivation of fig trees, well they can do that. And if they want to, they could call their cultivation of fig tree class United States Government. I should note that I’m not suggesting that any homeschooled family has done anything like this. I’m just trying to make the point that the family is fully in control here. Homeschooled students must also be registered as such with their local school district and document in one of a few ways that they are progressing in their education. Another very important note on home school is that it doesn’t
award
a
high
school
diploma--not
an
accredited one at least. Many other students will not come to a physical school but will receive their education online. There are
The
line
between
online
schooling
and
homeschooling can become blurry when a family chooses to use an online school provider to supply their homeschool curriculum. This a common practice especially at the high school level because few families feel qualified to teach a variety of more complicated subjects that one typically finds in high school. Ultimately what this means is that students and parents need to be careful with the terminology they use. Don’t order a coke if what you really want is a Dr. Pepper. There is a lot more to consider and a lot more involved when choosing to become homeschooled or taking school online. Both of these courses of study take self-discipline from the student and parent and neither typically entirely cut out public school districts. As you meet with school officials be certain you understand the terminology you are using and do not be afraid to ask lots of questions.
21
KEISHA WRIGHT 23
Homeschool Hybrid Ability to Have Your Cake and Eat It Too
By: Keisha Wright, Principal at Crosspointe Academy Many families today are looking for educational
an ideal fit for their family.
One such school,
flexibility when it comes to their student’s learning for a
Crosspointe Academy in Fort Myers, Florida, has offered
variety of reasons. While many are interested in
this unique educational program to their community for
homeschooling their students, they can quickly become
several years.
intimidated by certain subject topics, keeping their child
school, we found the school that he fit in and felt
busy, or ensuring they have the college-readiness skills
comfortable at. He has flourished in all aspects of his
to be successful in their post-secondary endeavors.
development. The hybrid school model and small
After several years of struggling in
school environment is perfect for him, reviewed Mrs. Many parents are finding the hybrid homeschool model
Miles, a current Crosspointe family member.
84,000 students estimated home education students in Florida
Mike McShane, education contributor to Forbes.com, believes hybrid homeschools are becoming the wave of the
future.
Hybrid
homeschools
are
particularly
interesting for two reasons. First, they blur the lines around what we consider a school. According to one of Crosspointe middle schooler
I don’t go to school, I
homeschool with my friends. With the proliferation of new technologies and resources, it is much easier for
58,000 families choose home education for their child(ren)
families to get high-quality materials and instruction for their children in a wide range of subjects. It is also easier for families to network with each other and find opportunities to collaborate," McShane reported in his May 21, 2018 Forbes article. In keeping with the highest of educational standards, Crosspointe is registered with the Florida Department of Education and accredited through the Florida Christian Coalition of Private Schools Association. Their volunteer
Resources Lee County
board of directors, a group of dedicated visionaries comprised of business professionals, parents, school administrators and a church pastor, provides guidance and assistance to ensure the institution delivers an affordable, private, Christian school education in a structured,
Florida Department of Education McKay Scholarship Florida Parent Educators Association
caring,
classroom
environment
for
all
students. Mrs. Coe, Founder and Crosspointe Principal has a heart to shepherd each child.
I want to meet a
child where they are educationally and prepare each student for what God intends for them. Future plans include partnerships with the community of southwest Florida to bring programs that will further benefit the families, indicates Mrs. Keisha Wright, High School
Administrator
at
Crosspointe
Academy.
Programs such as fine arts through Creative Theater Workshop, vocational/technical, an online academy option, and scholarships for those who may need assistance will enhance our educational model and provide more opportunities for quality education with
Seton Testing
excellence and Godly character for all children.
THINKING HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE & RETIREMENT?
Whethe is man ea s a a o sta ing ou ight in the fa“e…. e a e he e to HELP! At Flo idian College Planning Resou “es ou goal is to edu“ate, e aluate, and e e“ute a plan fo ou famil that na igates ou th ough the unfamilia o ld of finan“ial aid, ationalizes “ollege and “a ee sele“tion, and ans e s the daunting uestion Ho on ea th am I going to PAY fo this? As “ollege planning SPECIALISTS, e ha e lea ned that man families, ithout guidan“e, make “ostl mistakes hen planning o not planning fo “ollege. Thousands of dolla s ma be SAVED b p ope planning. This is impe ati e “onside ing ou ma be spending the la gest amount of mone in the sho test amount of time than ou e e ha e o e e ill in ou enti e life. It is ou passion to utilize a holisti“ app oa“h to de elop an indi idualized plan fo ou and ou famil that integ ates ALL ou finan“ial needs. Please pe use ou site, attend one of ou f ee o kshops and lea n ho e ma be able to help ou de elop a su““essful st ateg to not onl PLAN and PAY fo “ollege but also to PRESERVE ou eti ement.
26 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: COUNSELOR CORNER
l a n o i t a n r e t In e t a e r u a l a c c a B By : Katelyn Uhler, IB Coordinator at Cape Coral High School What makes the IB program different? The IB program is a
CAS, students must develop plans to meet goals in the areas of
comprehensive program in that it requires students to study
creativity, activity, and service. Students in the diploma
courses in 6 subject areas over the course of the 2
program have made plans such as learning how to cook,
year diploma program. Students take courses in language and
crochet, run a 5K, reach a PR in their sport, volunteer at a
literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies,
nursing home, and raise a certain amount of money for a
sciences, mathematics, and the arts. They are also required to
charity. CAS often requires them to go out of their comfort
complete the IB diploma core which consists of the extended
zones and have experiences they wouldn't have otherwise
essay (a 3,000 to 4,000 word research paper), theory of
had.
knowledge, and creativity, activity, and service (CAS). What also stands out about the IB program is the way students The IB program is designed to develop students into more
are assessed. In other programs students take a single final
than learners. Throughout the program students are taught to
exam and that is what determines whether they pass and could
embrace all of the IB learner profile traits (see image). They
potentially
are encouraged to be well-balanced as they complete
Diploma Program each subject area has at least a few
their creativity, activity, service (CAS) portfolios. To complete
different components that are factored in to the final subject
receive
college
credit.
In
the
area score. For example, in English Literature, over the two
IB
Example of IB Progression Plan at Cape Coral High School
years of the course the students have a written assignment (essay), oral presentation, individual oral commentary, and two written exams. These four scores make up the final English Literature score on a scale of 1 to 7. The IB assessments are designed to give students multiple ways to express what they have learned.
What are the benefits of IB? Is it worth it? Students have consistently returned to say it was hard, but it was most definitely worth it.
They have been accepted into
competitive univerisities such as Harvard, MIT, University of Virginia, Johns Hopkins, and West Point. The program is
Who are IB students? IB students are motivated by rigorous coursework. They enjoy taking on new challenges. IB students don't give up when things get hard, they are resilient and determined to succeed. IB students are independent and collaborative workers. They are effective time managers who enjoy being involved in and out of school.
constantly reflective and always striving for better.
IB students
are passionate about learning not just factual knowledge, but knowledge of themselves and those around them. They are
internationally standardized and recognized. Students can earn college credit based on their individual subject area scores. Students who earn their IB diploma have the ACT and SAT test scores waived for the Florida Bright Futures scholarship program. The program has proven to strengthen time management skills and build research and essay writing skills. At Cape Coral High School the program has student and family supports such as: student socials, study sessions, family potlucks,
informational
opportunities.
seminars,
and
scholarship
28 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: STUDENT VOICE
My Journey from IB to a Full Ride By: Mary Brady, Cape Coral High School IB student
I have to admit, I was hesitant to join IB. I started high school at a different school, so joining IB meant having to switch schools a year through high school. Despite my concerns, I made the switch to Cape High and joined IB, and it’s safe to say that it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I joined IB because I knew of its recognition in the global community for how it prepares students for college, and I was not disappointed. I’ve always been interested in STEM and had my sights set on becoming an engineer, and IB has allowed me to prepare myself for a career in STEM based on the classes I have available to me. I’ve taken biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and physics, just to name a few. I love the classes that I take, and I look forward to go to school because of what I learn each day. I know what I learn will help me to do well in college. I also love how IB earns me college credit at some schools, so my hard work now will allow me to have more room in my schedule for other classes in college.
Mary Brady at her fly-in for Rice University, where she will become an Owl for the 2019-2020 school year. STEM, it also opened my eyes to career paths in International
One unique aspect of IB is having to take college level
Relations, which I will consider as a possible career. The IB
courses in all subject areas, not just the ones you like,
curriculum has turned me into the best student I can be. The
unlike AP or AICE. By taking IB history, english, and
prestige of IB and the knowledge I have gained during my
foreign language courses, I have learned more about
time in this program has also helped me get into my top choice
myself and my aspirations. Prior to joining IB, I had my
school, Rice University, which I will be attending on a full ride
heart set on STEM and never really considered any
scholarship beginning in fall of 2019. I can confidently say that
other career path. Since IB allows students to learn
I would not have achieved my dreams without my experiences
about so many different subjects, my aspirations
in IB.
have evolved. While IB has cultivated my love for
MARY BRADY 29
72 Florida Association of IB World Schools
High schools in Florida participate in the IB Programme
While the IB curriculum itself is unmatched, the teachers and
and talented group of peers. The people I met that day made
support staff really make it special at our school. None of us
me feel so welcome, from helping me find my classes to just
could succeed without the amazing educators, counselors,
starting a conversation. Today, these people are some of my
and coordinators that we are surrounded by each day at
closest friends. That’s one of the things I love about IB. All of
school. Any of my teachers are willing to do almost anything
us are going through the same thing, and we are all here to
to help me succeed. Whether it be offering tutoring after
help each other. We have become a family, and I’m so glad to
school or sponsoring an activity that we might want to start,
be a part of it. IB has done so much for me as a student and as
the support that surrounds me in IB makes all the difference.
a person, and I can’t wait to continue to use my knowledge and values gained from my experience in this program as I
From my first day in IB, I was surrounded by the most amazing
chase my dreams in college.
30 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: FEATURED
So You Want to Dual Enroll? Student questions answered As director of a dual enrollment program for a Florida state college and a former school counselor for an early college/ collegiate program, I receive a lot of questions from parents and students interested about the dual enrollment process. Every state college has unique processes and policies regarding dual enrollment. I would suggest to speak with your school counselor and check your local college's website on more specific details.
Why should I do dual enrollment? The top reasons I hear why students do dual enrollment is that is saves them time and money. With college costs continuing to rise, dual enrollment is fast becoming a great way to access college at no cost. The Florida Department of Education also found that students who dual enrolled completed college 1.4 years sooner than non-DE students. There are also other reasons that students dual enroll. Students often take on dual enrollment want to be challenged
through
academically
through
deeper
conversations and tasks that engage the student as a critical thinker and problem solver.
What classes will be helpful for dual enrollment? If you are considering dual enrollment, it is important to have a strong emphasis in your core classes, such as mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies. Particularly, I see students who have been successful in Algebra 2 have some of the greatest success at transitioning to some of the courses. As well, your English coursework
AMANDA STERK should have introduced you to concepts such as MLA
How many years do you recommend being dual enrolled
format and the essay writing process. There also is a need
for?
for
Every student is different on this. Traditionally, students
strong
self-management
skills,
such
as
time
management, organization, and independent studying.
begin with one or two classes their sophomore year, and increase their dual enrollment load their junior and senior year. We are finding more students choosing the early
What is a typical workload for dual enrolled students?
admission program, where students can go full-time to
The difference I see with the workload is that students have
college for their junior and senior year with the possibility of
more independent studying that needs to take place versus
earning an associate of arts degree by the time they
a traditional high school course. College professors expect
graduate high school. Last year, we had 181 students
you to take quality notes, seek assistance when there are
graduate with their AA degrees.
questions, and to actually read the assigned textbook/ readings. Most professors state that for every credit taken in dual enrollment, three hours of studying is required a
What do I need to become dual enrolled after the end of
week. So, a typical 3 credit course is approximately 9 hours
next year?
a week of studying course material.
You will first need to put in an application to the college as a dual enrolled student. Next, you need to submit your test scores (PERT, ACT, or SAT) to qualify. You will then work
What is the difference between online and in person dual
with your school counselor to register for dual enrollment
enrollment?
courses. Students have to maintain a 3.0 high school grade
Online gives students more flexibility to meet their needs.
point average to stay eligible (3.5 for sophomore and
Many students are limited to taking dual enrollment
below).
because of transportation issues. However, online courses allow students access to college courses they would not normally have. Several high schools have assigned study hall
Will I be able to handle the workload of dual enrollment
periods that only online dual enrollment students take. The
and afternoon activities?
biggest difference is the student has to be sure to
The one nice thing about being a college student is your
thoroughly go through the Learning Management System
schedule is flexible and you can pick the days and times of
(for us Canvas) for readings, discussion posts, and
classes that work best for you. More students are choosing
assignment submission. Note with it being electronic, there
a combination of on-campus and online courses. I would
is a time stamp for everything. So professors can easily see
caution taking on too much work because college
when you logged into the course, how much time you spent
coursework can quickly catch up to you and I have asked
in the course, when you submitted your materials, and how
students, “Why did you fail?” and often the response is, “I
you compare to all the other students. So there is no, “My
took on too many hours at work (or activity) and got
computer had trouble and I could not submit.”
behind.” Because of the money being saved by taking these college courses, i would focus on academic success first.
What kind of testing is involved in dual enrollment? Required testing scores are set by the state and for certain
When is it best to take the PERT test?
courses you need different scores. For state colleges, we
It truly depends on what your academic goals are. I typically
allow students to take the Post Educational Readiness Test
see 10th graders taking the PERT test to be prepared for
(PERT) which is an online, untimed test; the ACT test; or the
dual enrollment. Fortunately, the test is given daily and
SAT. We even allow students to SuperScore between all
throughout the year, unlike the ACT or SAT which run on
three tests.
specific days throughout the year and is more limited.
31
32 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: FEATURED
STRETCHING THE EDUCATIONAL BOX A PARENT'S PERSPECTIVE ON HOME EDUCATION AND DUAL ENROLLMENT By: Leigh Shein, Dual Enrollment & Homeschool Parent
LEIGH SHEIN 33 Our daughter never really fit in the standard educational
set by the school. As a home education student, we, the
box. It started in when we had to move her from a
parents, act as our daughter’s advisors and approve her
traditional preschool to one that focused less on “pre” and
curriculum. This allows us to loosely follow a standard
more on “school”. Her kindergarten teacher identified her
high school curriculum, but not be bound by many
as gifted, a supportive principal provided her with
standard requirements. Our focus is on courses that
advanced work, and ultimately she was able to skip first
engage her interest and create a solid foundation for
and third grade. Many believe that grade acceleration
future work. For example, as a possible art major, she has
causes social issues. In our daughter’s case, it resolved the
been able to follow the advice from art schools to take as
social issues caused by being so far ahead of her age
many college level art classes as possible. Rather than
peers. She did well and enjoyed school through eighth
take the required Introduction to Literature class she
grade. Well, eighth grade was a little rough.
took a literature class on graphic novels, which happens
to be her focus in art. Not wanting to take the required
Since our daughter was so far ahead, we decided to take a
Composition I and II courses, she took advantage of the
bit of a break from the intensity of school. By starting
CLEP test and received credit for both.
home education freshman year, she was able to stay on
grade working with a tutor for math and science but also
When I asked my daughter what she thought about home
have more time to be a kid. Taking the Lee County End of
education and dual enrollment, she said, “I was
Course exams allowed her to begin building a transcript
apprehensive at first because I enjoyed most of my public
with her first two high school credits. Luckily, the Home
school, and I wasn’t sure what to expect with
Education Coordinator for Lee County asked about our
homeschooling. Now that I’m in my fourth semester as a
plans for the following year, and after we realized we had
dual enrolled home education student at FSW, I think it’s
none,
Florida
been a really good decision. I’ve had so many
Southwestern State College (FSW). Our daughter could
opportunities that I never expected were available. Most
start as a high school sophomore, there would be no
importantly, I can make my own educational plan.”
minimum number of classes, no required major and no
In addition, she will already know the ins and outs of
cost. We thought, “Why not?”
college classes wherever she goes from here.
We found the college easy to navigate, and everyone was
So far, this plan has served her well. Of course, this route
helpful and friendly. Although she is younger than the
might not be right for everyone. It requires very active
average student, there are a lot of dual enrolled high
participation by parents and students, working together,
school kids. Getting used to the routine took some effort
in academic planning and logistics, often without much
and there were some bumps in the road keeping on track
outside advice. It’s important, but not easy, to
with the workload. However, academic supports such as
differentiate when you are talking to your student as
multiple tutoring options and professor availability make
their academic advisor and when you are talking to them
it hard to fail. To us, as parents it seems less stressful than
as a parent. Understanding what a subsequent academic
the average high school. The biggest disadvantage for
institution will look for in a non-traditional student is
our family is the lack of a transportation system. Since
required in order to make course and activity choices
she is too young to drive, it does mean transporting our
now.
daughter to and from school.
she
suggested
dual
enrollment
at
Ultimately, I think the combination of a dual enrollment Now in her second year, she has been taking 3 or 4 classes
and home education may be the secret weapon for those
per semester. Dual enrolled students attending brick-
students wanting to control their future and go beyond
and-mortar schools follow guidelines
the educational box.
34 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH
NATIONAL DATA ON DUAL ENROLLMENT Columbia University (Karp, Calcagno, Hughes, Jeong & Bailey, 2007)
National data from 200,000 dual enrollment students
researched 300,000 dual enrollment students from Florida and New York and found students who took dual enrollment courses in high school were more likely to: Graduate from high school, Enroll in college,
67%
Start college in a 4-year institution, Enroll in college full-time and Stay in college at least two years.
growth in 10 years
Three years after high school graduation, students who had participated in dual enrollment courses in high school had earned
88%
attended college after high school
higher college GPAs and more post-secondary credits than their peers. According to Kilgore and Wagner’s (2017) Research in Brief, dual enrollment has been found to provide students with a wide range of potential benefits including; Helping prepare students for the academic rigors of college; Improving students’ motivation by offering interesting
50%
attended their DE college after high school graduation
courses and high expectations; Promoting relationships between colleges and high schools; Providing a college course experience to populations traditionally underserved by higher education; Contributing to a college-going culture in the school district; Enabling students to become accustomed to the college environment; Increasing the likelihood that high school students will graduate from high school and enroll in college; Building college awareness among students who typically would not consider enrolling in college.
DUAL ENROLLMENT
35
FLORIDA DATA Â Florida is leading the way in dual enrollment, providing increased programming initiatives to save valuable time and money for students. Current state data shows that dual enrollment students are more likely to continue in the Florida College System or State University System as well as graduate earlier than non-DE peers.
Dual Enrollment Enrollment Continues to Rise for Florida Students 65,000
63,958
60,000 55,000 50,054
50,000
2011-12
54,240
52,457
53,285
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
56,245
2015-16
2016-17
SEE EXCESS CREDIT LAW INFORMATION HERE
Florida DE Students Complete College Faster than Non-DE Peers 5 4.5
2.5
0
2.8
2009-10
4.8
4.5 2.8
2.7
2010-11
2.5
2011-12 DE
Non-DE
4.3
4.6
2012-13
2.9
2013-2014
36 UNMAZED MAGAZINE: TERMINOLOGY
Terminology: ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) AP courses are college-level classes taught in high school, following guidelines and covering material that should prepare them to take Advanced Placement tests offered by The College Board. AP courses have a final AP exam that students need to take. College credit is dependent on the score of the exam and the university they are attending. ADVANCED STANDING CREDIT Credit for previously completed college-level work or demonstrated knowledge of a subject granted by taking advanced standing exams, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) exams, and other similar programs. CAMBRIDGE AICE PROGRAM The Cambridge AICE program is based on an international curriculum and examination system that emphasizes in-depth understanding of a variety of subjects and a broad range of critical thinking skills. Similar to the IB program, course exams determined college credit. CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION Career Technical Education (CTE) provides students with the academic and technical skills and knowledge to be career ready.Many CTE courses are taught in the high school setting through Academies or at a local community college. Some typical programs include Firefighting, Culinary Arts, Automotive Technology, Medical Welding, and Automotive. COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP) The CLEP is a set of tests that can be administered to students who desire to obtain college credit by taking proficiency tests in selected courses. If the student scores high enough on the test, college credit can be awarded. There is a charge for each test taken. Information concerning an individual institution’s policies toward CLEP Tests can be found in the institution’s catalog. DUAL ENROLLMENT A process allowing high school students to take college-level courses that can be transferred to a college or university for credit. It may also be called Concurrent Enrollment. The credits may be available both for college and high school credits. There are different requirements to take dual-enrollment, such as a specific grade point average or standardized test scores. EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL Early College is a high school program that combines the high school curriculum with the first two years of college. When a student finishes the early college high school, he or she has a high school diploma and possibly an associate’s degree or two year’s equivalent of college credit to transfer to a four-year college. This approach especially targets students who will be first in their family to attend college, and/or of lower income means, as it makes earning college credits more affordable and more accessible.
HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS 37
High School Programs GPA (GRADE POINT AVERAGE) Quantitative measure of a student's grades. The GPA is figured by averaging the numerical value of a student's grades. It is cumulative, starting freshman year: grades count every year. A poor GPA in ninth grade can drag down the overall average, despite, for example, good grades junior year. Some schools weight their GPA’s by adding points to more rigorous courses like honors and college-level courses. HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS High school graduation requirements are the classes (or units) needed to receive a high school diploma. Every state has different requirements so it is important you are not missing any requirements or you are not able to receive a standardized diploma. INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) The International Baccalaureate program provides participating high schools a challenging academic course load and additional learning projects. IB challenges students to excel in their studies and encourages both personal and academic achievement. The IB program lasts two years and requires students to take a relatively prescribed academic program. Typically, students apply in 8th grade and enter into pre-IB courses for the 9th and 10th grade.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY National Honor Society is an organization at participating high schools that recognizes students for academics, service, leadership and character. Each Honor Society chapter establishes rules for membership that are based upon a student's outstanding performance in the areas of: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. Students in grades 10 through 12 in a school with both an official charter of the National Honor Society and an active affiliation with the national office are eligible for consideration for membership in NHS. PLAN TEST This test is usually taken in the sophomore year to prepare the student for the ACT. PSAT PSAT is shorthand for Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test. This standardized test is practice for the SAT and covers reading, math and writing. It is typically taken during a student's Sophomore or Junior years (grades 10 or 11). This test is offered for a fee at high schools. A fee waiver is often available for students from low-income families. The PSAT also qualifies the 50,000 top scoring students across the United States for the National Merit Scholarship. More information and the official student guide to the PSAT can be found here. SMALL SCHOOL OF CHOICE Small Schools of Choice (SSCs) are schools that are deliberately small, to allow a more personalized experience to students. They often incorporate principles of academic rigor, personalized relationships, and relevance to the world of work.
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