Learning to Read Should be F-u-n Fun Hearing, seeing and moving are key to successful phonics instruction
By Katie Kohn Many kindergarten students struggle with reading but there are amazing phonics and literacy programs around that can make cracking the code fun and simple. There seems to be a big disconnect between our preschools and kindergartens when it comes to preparing a child to read. Too often students come to kindergarten knowing all the letter names and writing in all upper case letters. Upper case letters are used infrequently in reading and writing. I understand that capital letters are easier for younger children to form, but I have, as a reading teacher, seen many 3-year-olds make perfectly good lower case letters too. I stress to parents and teachers that we should teach the lower case letters first. It is confusing to a 5-year-old who has just mastered their capital letters to then be told that they must switch to mostly reading and writing in lower case. Why not start them writing in lower case and then teach upper case half way through kindergarten? Students also learn the names of the letters before the sounds they make, causing even more confusion for their immature brains to deal with. Teaching d-o-g using letter names is not the approach to take. We don’t read with letter names, we read by blending the sounds, or phonemes. Again, we should start by introducing the sounds first (phonemic awareness) and later the names, which all children learn easily from the alphabet song. When choosing a reading program for your student, look for one that teaches more than just the alphabet. The English language has many diagraphs—when two letters make one sound—that can be included in a literacy program. Examples of these are: ai, oa, ou, ie, ee, ue, oi. Children are taught, “When two vowels go walking, the first one does the talking and says its name.” This is not
Au Pair: For Early
Language, Multicultural Education
By Sabina Crane, San Clemente mom Our family is a multi-cultural and multi-age mix. Grandma is from Norway, Opa and mom from Germany, our oldest son is studying in South Africa and the youngest, Alex, is now 6 years old and in kindergarten. Both mom and dad work in the professional world, so early on we decided to host an au pair for Alex for several reasons—to expose him and our family to different cultures, to encourage a young adult to observe the American way of living and to afford ourselves, as parents, flexibility with ever-changing work schedules. Our first au pair was from Thailand, and the educational process for everyone, including us as parents, was radically different. We are now hosting our third au pair from Cultural Care, Natascha from Germany, and the benefits for Alex are obvious. We value the chance to be matched with an au pair with German background so Alex can learn more about his heritage now that he is a little 3 | CRIB TO COLLEGE
Katie Kohn teaches her daughter Annabel, 5, phonics at her in-home tutoring classroom. Photo by Andrea Swayne
the case for ones such as ou and oi. Find a program that teaches all the sounds of the English language in a fun, systematic and multi-sensory manner. Some of us learn through listening (auditory), some through looking (visual), but many learn through movement (kinesthetic). When I am working with an older student who is struggling with reading, the problem is almost always that they are kinesthetic learners and the literacy program they used left that modality out. The other missing piece is that they never learned the sounds of the digraphs, just the 26 alphabet sounds. These students should be retaught all the sounds (42 of them), with movements and songs added to each sound. The songs and movements make it fun and meaningful and from then on it sticks. Movements that go with the letter sounds can also be taught to help children master blending (putting the sounds together to form words). Miming games that use several actions in a row help students to blend them in their head and then produce the
older. As a result he is much more understanding of foreign cultures, and even more important, he is learning to be very patient as our newest family member learns English. Through his time with various au pairs Alex has been exposed to new foods, a wider array of hobbies and interests, and of course, a new language. Ultimately these invaluable experiences are creating a more wellrounded cultural education for our son while also addressing our childcare needs. We’ve found it’s a myth that au pairs are only for the wealthy, as au pairs cost an average of $355 per week per family, not per child. This is less than most nannies and day care or pre-school services. Plus, day care staff is usually spread thin watching 10 to 20 children whereas an au pair offers one-on-one quality care. And nannies often have scheduling limits, whereas an au pair is 100 percent vested in your family and life. Natascha’s integration into our family has been smooth and all of us enjoy the differences we discover. Natascha is exploring a new world, while Alex is learning more about his German heritage and the language. She is genuinely interested in our family and as parents we have peace of mind as
word. Another trick that helps students blend is to say the first sound of a word very loud and the following ones quieter. Otherwise, by the time they have gotten to the last sound, they have forgotten the first. Saying the first sound louder helps children remember it. Making sure various learning modalities are included is crucial to helping all students crack the code. Some will learn to read with ease no matter what system they use, but many will struggle unless they are taught in a meaningful and systematic way. Struggles with reading can result in poor comprehension skills, low self-esteem and difficulties with all subjects, as fluency is needed for math, science, etc. Research shows that children who are taught using a systematic phonics program that is multi-sensory and teaches all 42 sounds, are up to 12 months ahead of their peers in reading and writing. These types of literacy programs also help English Language Learners to be as competent in reading as their native speaking peers, and girls and boys to read at the same level. Don’t be afraid to ask your child’s teacher questions about the reading program being used in the classroom. And, if your child is struggling or just doesn’t seem to enjoy learning to read, seek out a supplemental program to use at home or a tutor specializing in multisensory phonics. When a fun, multisensory and systematic phonics program is chosen, children will love learning to read, develop confidence and have a strong base on which to build a successful education. Katie Kohn has a master’s degree in education and a California Multiple Subject Credential with crosscultural language and academic development (CLAD) emphasis. Kohn is a Jolly Phonics, www.usaphonics. com, and grammar teacher and tutors in all subjects. She can be reached via email at jollyphonics.katie@ gmail.com.
Sabina Crane shot this photo of her son Alex, 6, au pair Natascha and husband Richard Crane as the family kicked off the fall season together carving jack-o-lanterns at their San Clemente home. Sabina said hosting an au pair is a great choice for childcare as well as providing educational experiences and positive cultural exchanges for the whole family.
our new “daughter” cares for Alex in our absence. We are already hoping that Natascha wants to do a second year with our family! Sabina Crane is the mother of three ranging in age from 6 to 29 and runs a pet toy and treat company. The Crane family lives in San Clemente and is hosting their third au pair from Cultural Care Au Pair, www.culturalcareaupair.com. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
Your Road to College Academic advisors from local high schools share tips and advice for high school students Building Your Resume: College Admissions and the Well-rounded Student Colleges are looking for students who work hard and dream big By Bonnie Borden, Academic Advisor, Dana Hills High School College entrance requirements vary. SAT scores, your high school grade point average, where you rank among your high school class and the size of your high school class are all factors. Hard work and success in high school paves the way to college acceptance. College admissions counselors want to see students start strong as freshmen and continue on through senior year. Math is an extremely important part of your academic resume. Three years of math are required; however, colleges want to see students stay in math throughout high school. Admission counselors are also looking for well-rounded individuals, who have completed substantial contributions in several areas. Athletics, volunteering, employment and involvement in clubs are important and necessary. They are looking for leaders, club presidents and student government participation. All are impressive. Colleges want students who will contribute to their school and make it a better place. So while still in high school, work on those grades, improve your test scores, take advanced placement (AP) classes and choose a meaningful extracurricular activity. Internships and significant summer experiences are also impressive and play an important part in building a comprehensive resume. As a junior, you should be making a list of intended college visits, preparing for the SAT and or ACT, and test in the spring. Your resume should be fine-tuned, and a rough draft of your
college essay should be in the works. Visit as many schools as possible and try to do so when students are on campus. Organization and dedication are key this year. Colleges look very closely at the junior year but remember it is important to finish strong and keep shining through senior year. Admissions offers can be rescinded due to a significant downturn in senior year grades. Be realistic when applying to schools and always include a safety school, meaning a school you are certain to be offered admission to. Apply only to schools you would attend if accepted. College websites give averages—the percentage of applicants accepted versus those who applied, average test scores, average GPAs, etc.—for the prior class admitted. Use this information as guidelines when deciding where to apply. Even if you have your heart set on attending a college out of state, don’t neglect the opportunity to also explore your many options here in California. Check out the California State University system. State schools look only at a student’s GPA and either the SAT or the ACT test scores. Students will find the value of a CSU education means one of the lowest public university tuitions in the nation, many financial aid options and low debt upon graduation. Private schools and the University of California look at grades, test scores, difficulty of the classes you took and all activities. Remember, no matter where your college search leads, a continuing education brings the promise of a stable economic future. The more education you obtain the better off your job prospects and future earnings.
Top College Admission Testing Questions Answered By Roland Allen, Director of College Counseling, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School College admission officers universally agree that the single most important piece of information in a student’s college application file is the high school transcript. That is, successful progress in rigorous college-preparatory courses in high school is the best indication 4 | CRIB TO COLLEGE
of an applicant’s future success in college. Other factors are important as well. In my experience, however, concern about college admission testing produces the most acute anxiety among college-bound students and their parents. While college admission testing and college planning requires thoughtful conversations with students, counselors and parents, here are answers to six of the most commonly asked questions about testing. (Continued on page 9)
How Important Is a College Visit? By Rachele Ross, Academic Advisor, San Clemente High School College visits play a pivotal part in the college selection process. When you are trying to figure out which college is the best fit for you, visiting a campus can help narrow your decision. I have worked in guidance for many years and each person takes a different approach to how and when they take these college tours and what to expect. Visiting colleges in the spring/summer of your junior year seems to be the best time. It allows you to compare if you are a qualified candidate, if the school offers everything you are looking for and if it is a good fit for you. Having these visits done before the beginning of your senior year will also allow you to apply with a little more information and confidence in the fall. College visits come in many forms and you have to plan for all of them. 1. Make sure you plan your visit when school is in session. Going when no one is around defeats the purpose. 2. Set up an appointment to speak with an admissions counselor, especially for impacted majors. It can only help you, so bring a copy of your most recent transcript and test scores. A college visit demonstrates to a school that students are interested enough to come and find out whether the college is right for them. 3. Look to social media like Facebook. All universities have accounts. Getting a real perspective gives you some insight. 4. Connecting with a former student from your high school can give your tour a personal touch. You can see the real campus and a little piece of home helps. 5. If possible, sit in on part of a class pertaining to your major. Class schedules are online so you can plan your day, and after class, a quick introduction to the instructor can’t hurt. 6. Traditional guided tours will allow you to see all the highlights of the campus. 7. An overnight visit is an option that gives you more of the whole campus experience. 8. Go visit schools that offer what you are looking for (majors, campus size, athletics, Greek life, etc.). Big names don’t always mean a good fit. The importance of visiting college campuses cannot be over emphasized. Brochures, websites, presentations by college representatives and guidance counselors can help to form an opinion of a school, but a visit allows you to see first-hand the environment and evaluate the academics, athletics, housing and the social life of that school. Seeing for yourself is the best insight of all. It is not uncommon for a student to think that a college is right for them based on all the hype but then find that it is not the right fit. It is more important that students choose a school that is the right fit for them. It is not the name of the school, but the experience you have as an undergraduate that will contribute the most to a successful future. Better to find that out before you arrive than in the fall with your bags and books in hand. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
MORE FROM OUR EXPERTS... Losing Sleep over the Cost of College? I ask families all the time if they’re worried about the cost of college for their kids, and with no exceptions their answer is a resounding “YES”! The reality is that more and more families are completely stressed out over the quickly rising cost of college. Are you one of them? Hope is NOT a Strategy When I ask moms and dads what their plan is for paying for college, here are the top five answers I get: • We hope to get scholarships • We hope to get a Cal Grant • We’ll borrow against our home • We’ll borrow against our retirement • Student loans Hoping for scholarships is NOT a strategy! And borrowing for college has proven to be financially devastating, for both students AND parents. Students are graduating from college burdened heavily with student loans, often being forced financially to move back home with mom and dad. Others find their dreams of getting married or starting a family horribly delayed, all because of debt. So What’s the Solution? You’ve got to have a deliberate, intentional PLAN in place to pay for college, before your student gets stuck
St. Anne School St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel is an independent Catholic school that fosters the intellectual and character development of its students, preschool through eighth grade. St. Anne provides unparalleled academics and extracurricular activities designed to challenge, educate and nurture the whole child in partnership with parents. Founded in 1992, St. Anne is a National Blue Ribbon School and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the Western Catholic Education Association (WCEA) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). St. Anne welcomes students of all faiths and offers two-, three- and five-day preschool options, full-day kindergarten and extended day-care. Call today to schedule a tour. For preschool, please contact LuAnn Wilson at 949.276.6783 or via email at lwilson@st-anne.org. For kindergarten through eighth grade, please contact Lil Ray-Reed at 949.276.6753 or at LRay@st-anne.org. 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, www.st-anne.org.
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on a dream school or becomes stricken with “brand name paralysis.” Your plan must begin with an understanding of today’s college admissions and financial aid process. It’s nothing like when YOU were in college! Surprisingly, few families have such an understanding, so it’s no wonder they’re severely disappointed in March when the financial aid “awards” arrive, and their stellar student has been offered nothing but loans. Loans Are NOT Financial Aid The colleges and government have successfully convinced moms, dads, and students that borrowing for college somehow equates to “financial aid.” This is ridiculous! True financial aid comes in two flavors, scholarships and grants. Referred to as “gift aid”, these represent the only TRUE forms of financial aid, because it’s the “free money” families are looking (and hoping) for. So WHO Gets the Free Money? Herein lies the $64,000 question! To answer it correctly, you’ve got to know which “Financial Aid Quadrant” your student falls into. Quadrant No.1 gets the most money. Quadrant No. 4 gets the least. Very few families have even heard of these quadrants, let alone know which one they’re in. Whether you have a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior, you must know your quadrant and what that means to you in terms of FREE MONEY.
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Don’t Be Normal Don’t let your college-bound student be “normal!” Here’s what normal looks like in the landscape of college graduates today: • 6+ years to get an undergraduate degree • $32,000 in student loans • 50% chance of being unemployed or underemployed • 85% chance of moving back home Let the Admissions and Financial Aid Experts at GetCollegeFunding help your student achieve his/her dreams and help YOU catch up on all that sleep you’ve been losing. — Text the keyword freemoney to 949.234.6495 or go to www.GetCollegeFunding.org/freemoney to get started today — By Tom Bottorf Founder & President GetCollegeFunding Dana Point Harbor 949.340.2675
Saddleback Valley Christian Schools
Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Founded in 1997, Saddleback Valley Christian Schools is an independent, college preparatory, WASCaccredited Christian school serving preschool through 12th grade. Blessed with nearly 70 acres in San Juan Capistrano, facilities include two new education wings spanning 66,000 square feet of classrooms and labs. SVCS seeks to prepare young minds for leadership with hearts for service. Rigorous college prep academics are integrated with athletics, the arts, service opportunities and a Christian perspective to develop the whole child. Our academic program consists of instruction from talented and qualified teachers, emphasizing Biblical truth and a balanced curriculum to challenge each student. Our High School is a University of Californiaapproved college prep program, emphasizing coursework necessary for competitive college placement. The academic and elective campus features inspiring musical performances, creative art programs, quality science equipment and state-of-the-art computer labs. The athletics program includes 19 sports and boasts over 80 championships, including two CIF titles. 26333 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4050, www. svcschools.org.
Santa Margarita Catholic High School offers a well-rounded, college-preparatory education developing students who are people of faith, skilled lifelong learners, healthy individuals and involved citizens of our world. Whether you have specialized learning needs or thrive in the most rigorous of programs, Santa Margarita’s academic tracks are tailored to meet the needs of varied learners. The school offers 18 AP courses, an Interdisciplinary Program caters to hands-on learners and an Auxiliary Studies Program provides students with specialized learning needs the opportunity to reach their full potential. Santa Margarita is also the only Catholic high school in Orange County to offer the challenging International Baccalaureate program. Students are accepted to the nation’s top universities, frequently earning scholarships. Faith development and extracurricular activities are an integral part of the Santa Margarita experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions through the school’s thriving activities, arts and athletic programs. 22062 Antonio Parkway Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.766.6000, www.smhs.org. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
MORE FROM OUR EXPERTS... Tutor Toes Club Literacy A solid reading foundation is the key to higher academic performance and success in all curriculum areas. No learning center knows this better than Club Literacy. Established in 1998, Club Literacy, an educational enrichment center dedicated to the development of lifelong readers, has helped thousands of students improve their reading and writing skills. Club Literacy’s unique learning environment is a great confidence builder for its many young students. Amazingly, even kindergartenaged children who attend the center publish their very own books! 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste.105, Dana Point, 949.717.6624, www.clubliteracy.com/dp.
St. Michael’s Christian Academy St. Michael’s Christian Academy is a private school serving the parents of preschool through eighth-grade students in the heart of San Clemente. For over 30 years SMCA has been preparing students to achieve excellence by laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning. Our school is blessed to have loving and skilled teachers who enrich a traditional curriculum with music,
Tutor Toes provides the best practices in education while nurturing students to be successful, lifelong learners. All students shine with confidence as they realize their own strengths and individual skills. Believing that each child has the ability to learn and succeed, we provide all students with the necessary tools for success at their optimal level while nurturing thier love for learning. Come visit us and let us share our love for learning with you! 111 W. Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, 949.429.6222, www.tutortoes.com.
technology, art and sports. Our small class size, with an average of 12 students per class, allows our teachers to mentor and nurture students with individualized attention, encouraging them to achieve their full potential. Working with caring parents in this close-knit community provides an atmosphere for our students that infuses responsibility, integrity and respect, along with exceptional academic achievement. St. Michael’s Christian Academy is not just a school—it’s a way of life! 107 W. Marquita, San Clemente, 949.366.9468, www.gotosmca.org.
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Capistrano Valley Christian Schools Capistrano Valley Christian Schools focuse on growing leaders with a Biblical Worldview. Our size matched with our many specialized programs creates a community atmosphere while providing a high standard of academics and opportunities to develop every student’s leadership potential. Here at CVCS we find no greater pleasure than leading students into success in every arena of their growth process. All of the CVCS educators seek to show children how every discipline finds its source in God and His Word. In attending CVCS, students learn that God’s handiwork is revealed in science, His goodness and justice in history, His beauty in art and music, and His order and design in mathematics. For 40 years CVCS has been providing a loving Christcentered and nurturing environment for learning in the San Juan Capistrano community. We provide three-day and five-day junior kindergarten, full-day kindergarten through 12th grade as well as a homeschool co-op and ISP for families looking for flexibility. You are invited to stop by and see what makes CVCS a very special school. WOW is “Welcome on Wednesdays.” Stop by between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a tour and meet some of our staff. No appointment necessary! 32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org.
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Founded in 1979, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is the premier, independent college-preparatory day school in Orange County, situated on a beautiful 22-acre campus in historic San Juan Capistrano, educating 1,250 students from preschool through grade 12. Graduates of 2013 attend colleges and universities across the nation, including Columbia University, Cornell University, Harvard University, University of California, Los Angeles, New York University, Stanford University, Tufts University, University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania and Yale University. The Upper School offers 25 Advanced Placement courses and innovative, challenging academic courses such as engineering, marine science, multivariable calculus and software engineering. Every graduate is prepared and qualified to enroll in a four-year college or university, and because of the school’s reputation for the depth and quality of its academic program, more than 125 colleges and universities across the country visit St. Margaret’s annually to recruit its graduates. The school invests heavily in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), with robotics and engineering programs beginning in Lower School 8 | CRIB TO COLLEGE
in a dedicated engineering and robotics lab. By Middle School every student learns, studies and works on iPads. In Upper School students innovate and create in a state-of-the-art design and fabrication lab. The early childhood program focuses on cognitive, physical, social, emotional and creative growth. The Preschool curriculum develops exploration and foundation skills, receiving the highest marks from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The differentiated curriculum evolves in Lower School to a dynamic academic classroom experience in reading, writing, and math, along with science, STEM, social studies, world languages, physical education and art. Educating the whole child best prepares young learners for future social and academic success. A hallmark of St. Margaret’s is how its renowned faculty—more than 60 percent hold advanced degrees— are engaged in the life of each student. Teachers, advisors, three full-time college counselors, chaplains and coaches provide a solid framework of guidance and support. Through small class sizes, every student is known and nurtured. The new, reimagined library, a modern communal learning hub, provides dedicated spaces to support student learning, research and study needs, to work independently or collaboratively with classmates, and to seek guidance from expert researchers and information
specialists. Physical education and athletics emphasize active and healthy living, integrity, teamwork, high expectations and mutual respect, from gross motor development in preschool to 24 CIF varsity sports. The “Tartans” have achieved 29 team CIF-SS championships and five team state championships. Opened in 2012, St. Margaret’s 45,000 square-foot Performing Arts Center supports a vibrant arts curriculum in theater, dance, orchestra, band, choir and visual arts challenging students to be creative thinkers, problem-solvers and deepen their voice. St. Margaret’s students and alumni are easily recognized for their integrity, leadership, character and values. The school’s Episcopal identity guides its inclusive community that values faith and reason, embraces debate and differences, and emphasizes the spiritual and intellectual development of each child. Alongside rigorous academics and a breadth of student programs, St. Margaret’s fosters lives of understanding, respect, compassion, responsibility and the courage to lead and serve others. St. Margaret’s, 31641 La Novia in San Juan Capistrano, is hosting an Admission Open House on Saturday, November 9. For more information, contact the school at 949.661.0108 or log on to www.smes.org. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
Top College Admission Testing Questions Answered (Continued from page 4) What are college admission tests? The SAT and ACT are the two college admission tests offered in the United States by separate education non-profit organizations. The SAT, from the College Board, is administered on seven test dates in October, November, December, January, March, May and June. The ACT administers its test on six test dates in September, October, December, February, April and June. Every college and university in the United States that requires standardized admission tests accepts either the SAT or ACT with no preference for either test. “Does every college require standardized admission tests?” The National Center for Fair and Open Testing (www.fairtest.org) maintains a list of hundreds of colleges that are either test optional or de-emphasize standardized testing in making admission decisions. Some colleges offer alternatives to the SAT and ACT, such as the recent decision by Bard College in New York that allows students to take an examination that is composed of a series of essay questions. Which test should I take? This is the big question, and there’s no standard answer. Some students initially take both the SAT and ACT and compare the results before deciding which test they prefer.
How do I prepare for the tests? Every student should become familiar with the SAT or ACT prior to taking the test. I recommend using the preparation resources on the College Board and ACT websites. Students who want more disciplined preparation should look into test preparation services. Number2.com is a free service that is recommended by some colleges and universities. When should I begin college admission testing? Most students take the PSAT as their introduction to college admission testing. The “P” stands for “preliminary.” The PSAT is low-stakes testing in that the scores are not reported to colleges nor used in college admission decisions. The results provide students with valuable information. Students receive PSAT results with a full analysis of their strengths and weakness on the test and specific recommendations on how to improve their score when they sit for the SAT. Students who take the PSAT in grade 11 are entered into the National Merit Scholarship competition, which adds more weight to the test. The PSAT is administered by individual high schools in the middle of October each year. My colleagues at St. Margaret’s and I develop a testing plan with our students individually since “one size fits all” doesn’t apply to college admission testing. Our recommendations take in consideration a student’s placement in particular courses, especially mathematics, and we review results of the PSAT. Generally speaking, students should sit
for the SAT or ACT in the spring of junior year. That allows ample time for adjusting the testing plan since colleges use the highest scores when making admission decisions. How many times can I take the SAT or ACT? There are many opinions on how many times a student should take the SAT or ACT. Students should approach testing thoughtfully, in consultation with their college counselor, and take the tests until they feel their scores best represent their testing ability. Keep in mind that test results are only a fraction of what college admission officers take into account when making admission decisions. Other considerations are the high school transcript, essays, recommendation letters and extracurricular involvements. Roland Allen has over 20 years of college counseling experience. His background includes college admissions and counseling experience at Colby College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, The Branson School and Sidwell Friends School. He actively participates in professional organizations, including the College Board, National Association for College Admission Counseling, and the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools. Mr. Allen serves on the review committee for the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars and volunteers with College Summit. At St. Margaret’s, Mr. Allen leads a team of three full-time college counselors.
From Crib to College In the Blink of an Eye Parent of two reminisces as second son’s graduation nears By Shelley Murphy
For years I’ve taken comfort in the rituals of September—buying school supplies, shopping for clothes and attending back to school night. I can’t count how many September nights I’ve spent in classrooms over the years, but I know precisely how many remain—one. My younger son is a junior in high school, and for me, it’s déjà vu all over again. When my older son started his junior year, I began an official college countdown. Now, I’m calculating my younger son’s gradual slide down a slippery slope toward his freshman year of college. Friends say since I’ve sent one son off to college this time should be easier. In fact, it’s just the opposite; this time around I know exactly how quickly the calendar races and the agonizing heartaches. I long for my lost ignorance. It seems like only yesterday we brought our high school junior home from the hospital to his awaiting crib and big brother. As our young son grew, we celebrated each milestone as he learned to roll over, then crawl and eventually walk. In the blink of an eye, we went from my son sitting on my lap reading stories at “Mommy and Me” to my son sitting behind the wheel of my car learning the rules of the road. So far, my son is starting his junior year, like 9 | CRIB TO COLLEGE
his brother before him, and researching potential colleges. My boys won’t attend the same college, but my younger son is following the same familiar timeline to reach his collegiate destination. He’ll start by sending out applications, and I’ll once again anxiously anticipate the arrival of thrilling acceptance or agonizing rejection letters. After my son chooses his college to attend, we’ll celebrate his accomplishments by hosting a high school graduation party complete with balloons bearing his new school colors. On my boy’s last day at San Clemente High School, he’ll cross the stage amid the pomp and circumstance to accept his well-earned high school diploma. Or, as I refer to it, my parenting pink slip. Graduation passes and the days of summer end their downward spiral. After one last homemade meal, we’ll pack up the extra-long bed sheets and move our son from his bedroom to his dorm room. The trip to college could be a quick drive or a long flight, either way it results in changing our family forever. Freshman move-in day is a systematically scheduled, well-oiled machine. Throughout the day, waves of families arrive with freshmen gripping their belongings and parents clutching their hearts. As afternoon gives way to evening, university administrators hold a parent meeting at the
same time the dorm staff hosts a new resident meeting. There’s nothing left to say; it’s a thinly veiled ploy to purposefully separate parents from their students. Before they begin breaking up families, school officials graciously grant a minute for a quick goodbye. Parents, who spent the day running up and down stairs balancing boxes and wiping sweat from their brows, stand quietly in a corner hugging their children while wiping tears from their eyes. Unceremoniously, parents begin leaving campus, clinging to the hope that if well-behaved, they can come back in six weeks for Parents’ Weekend. No amount of planning adequately prepares parents for the drive away from the college. In an instant, chaotic commotion gives way to deafening silence followed by a flood of tears and a rush of heartache. At holidays, college kids return to their nests, but they’re never really home. They don’t ask, “Can you quiz me for my science test?” or “Where’s my favorite football jersey?” Instead, it’s, “Can I have your car keys?” or “Will you leave the front door unlocked?” Time passes; they thrive and you survive the freshman year of college. Life resumes. A different life—a life without back to school nights, but with Parents’ Weekend and the promise of new milestones and memories shared with our young adults. Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband and two sons for the past 14 years. She has been a freelance writer and contributor to the SC Times since 2006. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
No Education is Complete without Music By Kimberly Dean Williams, Kenny’s Music Music education is a necessity for a well-rounded education. It is also one of the great joys in life. Any music teacher or music student can expand upon the significance and profound effects that music has had on their intellectual, spiritual and creative being. However, anecdotal knowledge is now shown to be fact, with all the new and compelling behavioral studies and groundbreaking neurological research, showing conclusively that music studies actively contribute to brain development. The evidence of the positive effects music has on a student’s education has not only been seen by me personally in our award-winning music school, but is shown in many notable studies. The College Bound Seniors National Report profiled SAT program test takers and found that those students involved in music appreciation scored 63 points higher on verbal and 44 points higher on math scores, in impressive contrast to students who had no art education participation. Recognized as an invaluable way to connect with others and build bridges through a common language, music provides children the opportunity to not only connect with themselves but also build on their creative, cooperative and communication skills. In this age of advanced technology, our young people are forgetting the art of communication. The sight of our children obsessed with their cell phones while texting and avoiding conversation with others is disheartening. However, ob-
Kenny’s Music owners Kimberly Dean Williams and Kenny Williams bid students (L to R) Bella Lino (guitar), Catherine Glass (violin) and Tyler Tracy (drums) farewell following their Tuesday evening lessons. Photo by Andrea Swayne
serving a child’s achievement as they learn to play a musical instrument alongside their peers is a joyous experience to behold. Music may soon be one of the few group activities in which students can develop their minds and increase their ability to socialize and communicate. People will always respond and draw from the energy of others when playing and singing music, emphasizing that computers will never take the place of that true human connection. Music is truly a universal language that everyone can understand. Those with early musical training are better able to comprehend and memorize
After-school Programs Help Kids Reach Full Potential By Andy Brosche, Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area After-school youth development programs are a positive choice for bridging the gap between school and home by providing academic support, positive adult mentorship, friendship and a safe place to be a kid. In today’s world of raising a child with both parents working full-time even small assignments, like reading for 30 minutes a night, can easily slip through the cracks. Unsupervised after-school hours can become a detriment—kids will always find something to do, but may not make the best, or healthiest, use of their time. Technology, whether lack of access or too much access, also poses challenges. During these tough economic times, several families in our community are without a computer and lack the ability to access the Capistrano Unified School District’s online communication system, School Loop, or to correspond with teachers via email. On the other hand, with so many distractions like social media, television, video games or smart phones available to children, face-to-face socialization seems completely abandoned and homework can be neglected. It is for reasons like these that community after-school 10 | CRIB TO COLLEGE
Members of the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area are all smiles as they work on their homework. Photo by Andy Brosche
programs are such a valuable resource. Most after-school organizations have technology centers and offer computer access for research, reports, email and for accessing School Loop. If technology resources are easily accessible to kids, they take advantage of it. Technology is becoming more and more important to a student’s success. After-school programs also provide safe and positive mentorship. Kids can participate in highyield activities that encourage healthy lifestyles, academic success, good character and leadership. When children are provided so many options to participate in a variety of activities, they are deterred from burying their noses in Instagram, Facebook and other social media outlets. When utilizing these resources, excuses for missing assignments become nonexistent. Also, students see adults take interest in their studies, and in turn, start taking a greater interest themselves. Great futures happen when teachers, parents and after-school youth development professionals
abstract concepts. It is the only language that encompasses a full spectrum of educational studies including math, science, history, foreign language and art, not to mention the physical improvements of hand-eye coordination required to play an instrument. Music expounds upon ingrained natural human emotion. From the early development of mankind, music has also served as a pathway in religious ceremonies which strengthens the emotional and social communication of the worship community. A well-respected German philosopher, Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche stated, “Life without music would be a mistake.” This validates my own belief that life without music education would, therefore, also be a mistake. Clearly, the obvious benefits of early and continuous music education— both within schools and through group or private instruction—has not only been proven in studies, but can be witnessed first-hand in every aspect of a child’s daily development. Kimberly Dean Williams has more than 30 years in the professional music industry and is the co-owner and manager of Kenny’s Music Store, 24731 La Plaza in Dana Point. Her husband and business partner Kenny Williams has been playing guitar for 52 years and teaching music for 25 years. Kenny’s offers music instruction for many instruments including guitar, bass, ukulele, strings, piano, keyboards, drums, woodwinds, brass and voice. For more information call 949.661.3984 or log on to www.kennysmusicstore.com. work together and share in academically raising a child. Homework assistance is offered to our community’s youth from so many organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, HELP, San Clemente Youth Collaborative, the YMCA and even on select days, at our local high schools. I believe youth development is the responsibility of all adults, not just parents, teachers and administrators. Our community is full of so many extraordinary people whom our kids can benefit in learning from. Volunteer, mentor or tutor at any youth development organization. Help better our kids’ futures and in turn enjoy a rewarding experience. There is no such thing as a bad kid. All kids have the potential to be great. Youth development programs play an important role in reaching, encouraging and developing that greatness. Andy Brosche is the Director of Operations and club alumni at the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area. Fifty-seven percent of Boys & Girls Club alumni credit the Club to saving their lives. Andy Brosche is one of them. The Boys & Girls Club is focused and determined to help all club members graduate high school and attend college. Programs are centered around three core areas: academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. The club’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those most in need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area (San Clemente), at www.BeGreatSanClemente.org. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley (San Juan Capistrano) can be found online at www.bgccapo.com. DANAPOINTTIMES.COM
From Crib to College Preparing for a Higher Education Starts Early A handy checklist to help keep your child on track INFANTS AND TODDLER S Read to your child every day. Log on to the Department of Education’s parent information page at www.ed.gov/ parents. This website is a rich source of resources and information on everything from early childhood through college age. From a month-by-month guide on infant development, to strategies for raising a reader from the start, this site is one to bookmark and return to often throughout your child’s upbringing.
PRESCHOOL Continue reading to your child daily. Choose the most enriching childcare options available to you. Consider enrolling your child in preschool and other enrichment programs like music, art and other classes.
ELEMENTAR Y SCHOOL Keep reading to your child. See www.ed.gov/parents for tips on helping children learn to read. The site also has information on what to do if you suspect there may be a problem affecting your child’s progress. Stay engaged in your child’s education by checking/helping with their homework and keeping an open dialogue with teachers. Start saving for college. Research prepaid tuition and savings plans. A good place to begin is www.collegesavings.org.
MIDDLE SCHOOL Discuss the importance of college to your child’s future often. Make discussions exciting, emphasizing all the wonderful possibili-
ties. Talking about the stress of paying for a college education and the need to compete academically should be discussed realistically, but not to the point of causing undue anxiety. Encourage your child to speak with adults whose careers interest them and do other research to learn about the education necessary to land such jobs. Speak with teachers and guidance counselors to find out about special interest programs or academies offered at the high school level and what classes need to be taken to prepare. Support your child in developing strong study skills. Help your child find activities in the community that will allow them to explore areas of interest outside of school. Keep a close eye on school progress—behavior and grades—and if necessary, find tutoring to help keep studies on track. Review your college savings program and adjust as necessary to stay on track. Familiarize yourself with college tuition rates. A good way to estimate how much federal financial aid your child may qualify for is available online at www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov. The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is one of the first steps you will need to take when beginning the college application process. This website will give your family an early look at what to expect and help clarify plans for financing college.
HIGH SCHOOL Students should meet often with their academic advisor to make sure they are taking the right mix of classes to meet college entrance requirements. Choose challenging courses in the core academic subjects. Consider attending specialized academies, taking Advanced Placement classes and enrolling in other advanced programs, such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Students, get involved in your community.
Choose a few quality volunteer groups or special interest programs to participate in, rather than going for quantity. Begin the college search. Campus visits are important. Explore as many scholarship opportunities as possible. Students, start taking the standardized tests required for admission to the colleges you are interested in applying to. The four main tests are the PLAN (pre-ACT), PSAT/ NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), the ACT and SAT. Some colleges and scholarships may also require SAT subject tests. Stay in close contact with your academic advisor to keep yourself on track with testing. Keeping in close touch with your academic advisor is also important with regard to financial aid and scholarship application deadlines. Make sure you are clear on when to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, and other forms. Application requirements vary greatly among colleges. Students should research every school they want to apply to for information on application deadlines, fees and other specialized requirements. Students should spend plenty of time and energy on preparing the most outstanding essay they are capable of. A stellar essay can be the tipping point that convinces a college admissions officer to accept a student. Plenty of information about the road to college is available online. Check out websites like the American Council on Education’s Four Steps to College page at www.knowhowtogo.org.