Choices In Education - January 2013 by Leader Publications

Choices in EDUCATION January 2013

Choices In Education • January 2013

Find affordability:

Indiana University South Bend is closer than you think Indiana University South Bend is a good choice for nearby students in Michigan. With the help of financial aid and scholarships, you can earn an Indiana University degree at a lower cost than you think. This year, Indiana University South Bend provided $60.5 million in financial aid to more than 6,300 students. The aid came in the form of scholarships, grants, work-study funds and low interest student and parent loans. There are a lot of ways to arrange financing for your education and IU South Bend is committed to helping students get a college education they can afford. Plus, at IU South Bend you will be assigned a coun-

selor who will guide you through the financial aid process. The key is to start now. The deadline to apply for many scholarships, grants and loans is March 10, 2013. For Michigan students, the Chancellor’s Merit Award is particularly helpful. This scholarship provides students with the opportunity to receive a reduction in the out-of-state tuition rate. A limited number of awards per year are made to qualified students. To be eligible you need to be a graduate from a U.S. high school or state recognized homeschool program with a college preparatory curriculum; have a minimum 3.3 cumulative grade point

average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale; an SAT critical reading and math combined score of 950 or higher (21 or higher composite score on the ACT); and must be formally admitted to IU South Bend without condition. Michigan students can live on campus at IU South Bend in student housing. The proximity of classes, professors, the library, and student life make it easier to adjust to college life. Plus, there is no need for driving to and from campus or worrying about the price of gasoline. And research shows that students who live on-campus during their first year are more successful in the classroom and

more likely to graduate. IU South Bend offers the full collegiate experience including more than 100 degree programs, distinguished faculty, athletics, student life, undergraduate research, study abroad, tutoring and more. Students get personal attention because they are in smaller classes, where their professors know their names, advise them on their academic progress, and help them to be successful in college and in life. Contact us now. For financial aid email sbfinaid@iusb.edu or go to dinancial.iusb.edu. For scholarships emailscholar1@iusb.edu or go to scholarship.iusb.edu.

Choices In Education • January 2013 3

23 schools participate in coordinating healthy lifestyles with academics LANSING — Twentythree Michigan high schools, including Benton Harbor High School and Ross Beatty High School in Cassopolis, are receiving assistance as part of a three-year grant aimed at

improving students’ learning by coordinating academics with healthy lifestyles, anti-bullying programs and parent and youth engagement, the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) said.

The Safe and Supportive Schools (S3) model, titled think.respect. in Michigan, is funded through a $24 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education. It will ensure that students in the 23 pi-

lot high schools learn an array of skills that when paired with school improvement efforts can lead to greater academic achievement among students because they are healthier physically, men-

Today’s child... is tomorrow’s college student... Will the money be there to fund your child’s future education?

Call: William C. Nielsen Harbinger Financial Group bnielsen@harbingerfinancialgroup.com (269) 208-9298 Find out more information at www.sagecollegesavings.com *At nearly 300 participating private colleges and universities for undergraduate tuition, beginning with the freshman year. Qualification requirements apply for the scholarship/tuition discount, but no purchase of insurance products is necessary.

Give the gift of education

St. Mary’s Shining a Bright Light on Our Children’s Future

St. Mary’s Offers: • State Certified Teachers • Offering Title 1 • Higher Standardized Test Scores* • Leaps and Bounds Program for 3s, 4s and 5s • All Day Begindergarten and Kindergarten • State Certified After School Club • Daily Hot Lunch • Student to Teacher ratio of 1:10 (on average) • And So Much More!

dren, grandchildren, nieces, nephews etc. More than 280 colleges are now participating in this programand more than 200,000 students have registered in this program. To learn more about the Sage Program, contact Bill Nielsen, Harbinger Financial Group at (269) 2089298 or email bnielsen@harbingerfinancialgroup.com. or, on the web, find out more information at www. sagecollegesavings.com.

Job ReAdy TRAInInG In 8 WeekS! MIG & TIG Welding Training with AWS Certification Be trained for the high-skilled, highdemand and well-paid welding industry.

WTEC, Inc. in the Fab Masters Company facility, Marcellus, MI www.aluminum-welding-school.com Classes are forming now. For more information, call 269-646-5315

tendent Mke Flanagan. Over the next three years, these pilot schools will put in place systems encouraging students to learn positive behaviors and healthy lifestyles.that will lead to academic success.

St. Mary’s faith based education teaches character and values while providing a balanced academic program.

I can show you how to fund up to 25% of the cost of college.

The biggest gift that we can give the future is a college education for our children. That has become easier said than done. As the cost of a college education skyrockets, we find ourselves asking: “How can we afford a college education for our children?” Through Sage Scholars Tuition program, there is a solution for you and there is no cost to you as a sponsor of this program for your chil-

tally, and emotionally, according to MDE. “We are hoping to learn some new lessons associated with a holistic approach to education through the course of this unique new grant,” said State Superin-

For more information, please call 269-683-9191 or visit St. Mary’s online at stmarysniles.com. St. Mary’s Catholic School is located at 217 S. Lincoln Avenue in Niles, MI and offers classes from preschool through 6th Grade. * Compared to local public schools.

WTEC Inc. offers certification WTEC, Inc. provides an industry-level extensive hands-on training program designed to prepare workers to excel in the welding industry and attain American Welding Society (AWS) certification status. WTEC training offers n One-on-one individual training environment n AWS-CWE, CWI-certified instructor n High-skilled training: — in an industry environment — on industry equipment

— for industry-ready jobs n Welding specific to aluminum or steel n Training to meet AWS testing requirements – not just a certificate of completion Classes and labs are held in the Fab Masters Company facility in Marcellus. Class sizes are limited to promote a one-on-one teaching atmosphere that contributes to higher skill training. We welcome you to visit our website for a closer look at who we are, www.aluminum-weldingschool.com.

Choices In Education • January 2013

College less affordable in Michigan Big cuts made to need-based LANSING — Michigan policymakers dramatically disinvested in state financial aid grants over the past decade, weakening a key strategy to keep postsecondary education affordable, a new study concludes. “Keeping it Affordable in Michigan,” a report by the Michigan League for Public Policy, finds that over the last decade Michigan policymakers: n Cut need-based grants by 20 percent while other states increased their needbased grants by 84 percent. n Invested the least in grant dollars per student in the Midwest. n Offered grants to only 14 percent of students, ranking Michigan 40th from the top. n Gave a large share of need-based grants to students from higher-income families attending private colleges. “There’s a growing consensus that not only is post-

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secondary education necessary for individual success, it’s vital to creating a competent workforce. Unfortunately, public policy decisions do not reflect this thinking at all. In fact we are swiftly moving in the wrong direction,’’ said Karen Holcomb-Merrill, policy director at the Michigan League for Public Policy. At most public universities in Michigan, tuition has doubled in the past 10 years. Students graduating

in 2013 will pay more than twice students who graduated in 2003. Even at the more-affordable community colleges, tuition has increased, on average, by more than 50 percent over the decade. Yet Michigan spent only $84.6 million on needbased grants in 2010-11, a 20 percent cut from 200001. Overall state grant aid, including need-based aid, is the lowest in the 22 years that the information

“With an aging population, a priority must be put on young peoples’ education. I certainly appreciate the opportunity for the children of our state’s corn growers to be able to compete for this scholarship,” said Jeff Sandborn, MCGA president and a corn farmer from Portland. “The MCGA board of directors looks at this scholarship program as a way to give back to our members, while promoting higher education to young adults.” All members of the MCGA, including students, growers and associates, as well as children of

members, between the ages of 17 and 25 are qualified. Applicants must be enrolled as a full-time student at a post-secondary educational institution during the fall 2013 semester in order to be eligible. All applications must be received in the Michigan Corn Growers Association office no later than 5 p.m. on Feb. 11. Applications can be obtained from the MCGA office by calling (888) 3236601 or online at www.micorn.org. The application must include a membership identification number. The

Report recommendations n Prioritize state appropriations for state needbased grant programs. n Use appropriations process to encourage tuition restraint. n Target students in need in grant-based programs n Modernize the state’s revenue system to support the investment needed. n Revisit cuts to students receiving public assistance. The report is available at www.mlpp.org.

has been published. The report questions if Michigan is targeting the right students for grants, which, unlike loans, do not have to be paid back. Of the approximately $1.8 billion in need-based grants that Michigan awarded over the past 20 years, 68 percent went to students attending private colleges while 32 percent went for tuition at public colleges and universities. And only a small share of grant aid is flowing to students from very low-income households with just 9 percent of the Michigan Competitive Scholarship going to students with family incomes of $20,000 or less. For the Tuition Grant Program, which only goes to private colleges, 17 percent went to students from families with income of $20,000 of less. Among independent students (not relying on help from families) three-quarters of grants for students in public universities went to those earning less than $20,000 while less than half of students in private colleges were earning less than $20,000.

Scholarships

Corn growers offer college scholarships LANSING – Corn growers plant seeds in the spring with the hopes of harvesting a bountiful corn crop in the fall. Growers are also planting seeds for the future through the seventh annual Michigan Corn Growers Association (MCGA) collegiate scholarship program. The MCGA board of directors will award a minimum of two scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each.

MCGA policy states that one membership equals one person. Only one application per membership number will be accepted.

Co-Alliance LLP offers $20,000 in scholarships

AVON, Ind.— One of the area’s largest farmer-owned cooperatives is making a welcome investment in the academic futures of 20 college-bound local students this year, thanks to the CoAlliance Solutions Scholar-

ship program. It is the fifth consecutive year of the program, and Co-Alliance has surpassed the $100,000mark in awards presented locally since the scholarship started. Co-Alliance serves energy and agribusiness customers across Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, and Co-Alliance’s farmer-directors have again committed $20,000 in academic awards to be presented in scholarships among the children and grandchildren of co-op members. The one-time awards of $1,000 each will go to local high school seniors who plan to

go into the study of agriculture, and who demonstrate leadership and ability. To qualify for consideration, the students must be children or grandchildren of co-op members within the partnership of Co-Alliance: Those partners are Midland Co-op, IMPACT Co-op, LaPorte County Co-op, Frontier Co-op and Excel Co-op. Children of employees and current coop directors are not eligible. The application has been posted on the company website and announced via Facebook. The deadline to apply is March 31.

Choices In Education • January 2013 5

Loans weigh down students’ futures By KENNETH LOWE The Pantagraph, Bloomington, Ill. (MCT) BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Sylvia Zukowski only works two jobs now, down from the four she had when she returned to college for a second undergraduate degree. After her first time through Illinois Wesleyan University, the 28-year-old turned her business degree into a consultant’s job in Chicago. But the career didn’t work out, and she returned to IWU to study social studies so she can teach history. Zukowski, the daughter of Polish immigrants from Carpentersville, is a firstgeneration college student who has taken out $90,000 in student loans despite cashing in her 401(k) to keep the amount manageable. Repayment will start mere weeks after she graduates this year, even though she doesn’t have a job lined up. The average American who carries college debt is trudging forward under about $24,000 of it, an American Student Assistance study said as of the first quarter of 2012. While the majority of

Repayment may start even before a job is started

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borrowers are younger than 30, a significant chunk of the estimated $1 trillion in nationwide student debt is borne by older students. Some 2.2 million loans are held by those over age 60, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Student debt now lurks on the horizon for students of all ages, and it’s a challenge for older or returning students who either need a

loan or want to pay them. For Zukowski, approval for her newer loans was harder to come by because of how much she’d borrowed and her previous education. “I don’t necessarily have any more anxiety over (loans), but I definitely did throughout this process,” Zukowski said. “Getting student loans is sometimes a lot more difficult than people think once you’re a

returning student.” For Zukowski, one principle above all others guided her borrowing: Don’t do it unless absolutely necessary. Cashing out her retirement contributions was better than taking out a loan, she said. Sallie Mae is one of the country’s largest suppliers of student loans, and its loan default rate — about 3.2 percent in September — has been falling, ac-

steady income to avoid default on the loans she owes. Jobs such as managing data and finance for medical institutions are likely to be plentiful and stable, she said. One of eight siblings, she helped her only daughter through school and worked a variety of jobs, including a current part-time gig at UPS, before starting classes at Richland Community College in Decatur, Ill. “I want to get those loans paid back as soon as possible, but I wouldn’t say it’s worrisome for me, because I’m the type of person who, if I need to pay something, I go get another job,” said Sangster, who didn’t provide the specific amount of money she owes. “I don’t like owing people or being behind. I do what I need to do to make it work.” As of 2010, the default rate at Richland was 13.9 percent, down from 17.2 percent the previous year. It’s never gone higher than 18 percent. Donna Curtis of Decatur also is at Richland, with a goal of becoming a registered nurse at age 50. It’s a big change from a previous career at GTE in Bloomington, Ill., where she presided over

cording to spokeswoman Nikki Lavoie. The company tries to work with borrowers to preserve their credit standing and avoid default and supports reform efforts that would allow student loans to be discharged in bankruptcy — an option banned since 1976. Vicki Sangster, 51, of Decatur, Ill., hopes a new career in health information technology will bring See DEBT, page 10

188 Lucinda Lane Watervliet, MI 49098 (Located at M-140 and I-94) School office: (269) 463-3941 Offering: v Pre-Kindergarten v Full Day Kindergarten v Grades 1-6

We should be your ‘School of Choice!’

Choices In Education • January 2013

Affordability that excels: Find an alternative to debt Attending college is a life-changing experience for thousands of Michigan students every year. But too often, the cost of tuition, fees, and room and board result in student loans that become a harsh reality after graduation. In 2012, 62 percent of bachelor degree graduates in Michigan finished college with an average debt of more than $27,000 according to www.projectionstudentdbt.org. “The college debt burden has far reaching implication for students and their families,” said LMC President Dr. Robert Harrison. “Repaying those loans over the next decade or more can make the basics of renting an apartment, buying a car, or purchasing a home difficult.” But there is an alternative. Each year students from across the region choose Lake Michigan College as the place to begin college for reasons of affordability, quality, and involvement outside the classroom.

The money comparison When you compare the first two years at Lake Michigan College to those of four-year institutions, the results are eye-opening. An LMC student who earns the first two years of their bachelor’s degree locally saves an average of $19,000 or more compared to the cost of those same two years at Michigan’s public universities. The savings is significantly more when the comparison is made to private colleges. LMC also assists students with securing money to offset the costs. Last year, LMC awarded nearly $9.5 million in financial aid that students did not have to repay. This amount includes approximately $600,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students. “Between affordable tuition and a staff that works hard to help students find grants and scholarships, many of our graduates leave Lake Michigan College with no or little college debt,” Harrison said. The quality comparison While affordability may be what brings some students to Lake Michigan College, their experience often leaves them talking about the great education and personal assistance they receive from faculty and staff. With over 70 areas of study that consistently produce highly-qualified professionals and students who

are well-prepared to take the next step in their education, it’s easy to see why so many students choose to start at LMC. Lake Michigan College is the area’s only community college to offer: n A nationally accredited registered nursing program with students who have averaged a 95 percent pass rate on the licensure exam on the first attempt over the past six years – well above the national average. n A radiologic technology program with 100 percent of graduates since 2005 passing their licensure exams on the first attempt – also well above the national average. n MRI and ultrasound training programs. n A nationally accredited dental assisting program with modern dental equipment, digital x-ray equipment, and an intraoral cancer detection system. n 1,000 new pieces of state-ofthe-art laboratory equipment, 11 renovated classrooms, and 22 redesigned science courses — all part of a recent $9 million investment in the college’s science programs. n A music program that has the All-Steinway School Designation — LMC is the first higher education institution in Michigan and second community college in the nation to receive this recognition. Students may also participate in LMC’s Honors Program. Honors students take courses in English, history and sociology that are anything but conventional. These courses tackle semester-long topics ranging from homelessness to the environment. LMC even has an agreement with Western Michigan University that allows LMC honors program graduates entrance into the prestigious Lee Honors College.

The campus life comparison Lake Michigan College offers a wide variety of campus life activities to give students the full college experience. Students, faculty and staff at all three campuses enjoy events such as outdoor movie nights, holiday parties and any reason to celebrate with delicious food. Red Hawk Nation is alive and well thanks to LMC’s nationally competitive intercollegiate athletic programs that create an enthusiastic atmosphere and school pride all over campus. Athletes and fans enjoy men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and, coming this fall, men’s and women’s soccer. The students at Lake Michigan College have a high level of community involvement, starting up hat and coat drives, toothbrush drives, and actively participating in the county-wide Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Day to collect and recycle items like Freon-containing appliances and household hazardous waste. In addition to sports and community-enriching activities, students can also become involved with campus life through the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, degree-related clubs, student senate, a number of intramural sports, theater and music performance opportunities or the cheer team, just to name a few. For more information about becoming a Lake Michigan College student, contact the Admissions staff at (269) 927-8626, or visit www.lakemichigancollege.edu. Scholarship applications for the 2013-2014 academic year are due February 15. Apply online at www. lakemichigancollege.edu/scholarships.

Choices In Education • January 2013 7

Choices In Education • January 2013

Partners in education: Earn a degree from Ferris State University while attending SMC Ferris State University and Southwestern Michigan College have a unique partnership delivering quality degree programs at an affordable price. Not only can you earn your associate degree at SMC, you can also earn a four-year

degree from Ferris in Southern Michigan. Ferris delivers hands-on learning, convenient scheduling and small classes to prepare students for the jobs of today — and of the future. The online, evening and weekend classes are ideal for transfer students to finish or further their education. Perhaps the biggest advantage to students is the cost savings this partnership affords them. Up to three years of courses are taken at SMC’s low tuition rate. The final credits are taken at Ferris’ public university tuition rates. Federal, state and institutional financial aid is also available to qualified applicants. If your organization offers employees tuition reimbursement, Ferris will defer tuition until 30 days after the end of the semester. In the end, you’ll have a highly respected, quality education and more money in your pocket.

When asked why they chose Ferris State University, students at Ferris’ regional campuses cited convenience, location, helpful staff and quality instruction. Ferris currently offers bachelor’s completion programs in accountancy, business administration, computer information systems, computer information technology, criminal justice, human resource management and technical and professional communication. Certificates are also available in human resource management, international business and leadership and supervision. Academic advisors are available to discuss the ease of transferring. Student Service Office 460 WOOD, 58900 Cherry Grove Road Dowagiac, MI 49047 Phone (269) 782-1214 FerrisSW@ferris.edu www.ferris.edu/statewide

Choices In Education • January 2013 9

Pathway to a career:

Career Center gives Career and Technical Education a boost

their English and social studies credit in a threehour block class. Academic teachers will partner with CTE teachers to create and deliver lessons and activities directly related to their career field. All students will work on technical reading and writing skills, employability skills, such as resumes, letters of application, interviews and professional portfolio development. ACT prep will also be a component. Specific classes will offer other academic credit, such as science in agriscience and visual arts credits in the art-related classes. Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes The CTE wing is being modernized in several in southern Berrien County are about to change. areas. A large greenhouse is planned for agriNiles Community Schools has created a Cascience to accommodate plant and animal projects reer Center with courses focused on preparing to be used as a K-12 learning laboratory. students for direct employment and a pathway The high school metals program is being reconto higher education in the related fields. figured as a welding laboratory to help meet the Students will combine elements of the academand for welders and metal workers. A new demic core with their career classes and use the commercial kitchen and restaurant are planned high-interest nature of these classes to make ac- with a focus on careers in hospitality and food serademic subjects more relevant. vice. The graphic arts program is being modified Starting in the fall of 2013, students will earn to include design and production of printed mate-

rials, T-shirts and promotional items to respond to the need for trained individuals in the print and advertising fields. Graphics will continue to work with digital media and web-based materials. We will continue with our business and accounting programs with a strong focus on professional preparation. Automotive programs will become more focused with certification in brakes, powertrain and auto electric systems. Our art program is set to focus on two-dimensional commercial art areas with an entrepreneurial thrust and a push toward continuing education beyond high school. We will continue the Professional Health Careers Academy and Allied Health programs in partnership with Lakeland Hospital and our Health Occupations and Pharmacy Technician class in partnership with Lake Michigan College. All of these programs will have agreements with colleges to earn college credit while in high school. These programs will be open to students from across the region through shared time agreements between school districts.

aking a decision about where you send your child to school is about more than textbooks, bricks, and mortar. It is about providing the vital preparation necessary to ensure success as they take their place in the world. At Niles Community Schools your child is important to us. You are important to us. We will work together with you for the best education for your child.

We offer: • The option of all day/every day kindergarten or half day/every day kindergarten • Comprehensive preK- 12 education and college preparation •W-A-Y Niles and W-A-Y Forward Programs: W-A-Y Forward is our Middle School Program and W-A-Y Niles is our high school program. Students become researchers at home or at school with an iMac workstation and Internet connectivity provided by Niles Community Schools; educational support 24/7, 365 days a year. Students in the W-A-Y Niles Program earn high school credit. • Niles New Tech Entrepreneurial Academy offers one of the most exciting new concepts in secondary education with Project Based Learning and One- to- One Laptops • Niles High School offers Blended Classrooms which will combine face- to- face learning with instructors with an online learning experience that mirrors the college experience • Eastside Connections School is a magnet school grades K-6 focusing on high student achievement and a rich culture of high expectations • Career Technical Education for school- to- work skills and employment preparation • Early College Academy where students can earn college credits while still in high school • Non-Traditional learning options. We partner with the Home School Community as well as continue to provide our award winning Alternative High School and Adult Education Programs

Start the New Year right with a visit to Niles Community Schools where we offer the most innovative options in education. Please call us today at 269.683.0732. Stop in or arrange a visit to talk to us about what Niles Community Schools can offer you and your child and let us show you how we will “inspire locally to excel globally.” Now, more than ever, Niles Community Schools is the right choice.

www.nilesschools.org

Choices In Education • January 2013

ing that the job market is on the mend for new graduates regardless of their field of study. Business and communications majors had a particularly good year, seeing their salaries climb 2.2 percent since 2011. Though their average salaries increased slightly less, engineering majors from the class of 2012 had the highest salaries of any academic discipline, earning an average of $60,639, which marked a 1.9 percent increase from 2011. Humanities and social services majors were on the opposite end of the spectrum, earning roughly $37,000 in 2012, which was just 1.4 percent higher than the previous year. — Metro Creative Connection

Beauty in training Michiana Beauty College has been graduating men and women into the beauty and wellness industry for more than 50 years The beauty industry is an exciting, adventurous and creative field that could be the career opportunity for you. Michiana Beauty College provides all the essentials for their students to become licensed Cosmetologists. The school provides a nationally accredited curriculum, which includes hair cutting, styling, color, salon management, facials, manicures and so much more. The instructors pride themselves in helping students acquire the knowledge and “hands on” skills required for a career in

the beauty industry. The training also helps students develop advanced technical, business and people skills which encourage self- reliance and readiness to assist others with an ethical approach to the profession. Classes start monthly and offer Monday thorugh Friday schedules. Students learn and practice in the new 5,000-square-foot school and student salon, which is located in Heritage Square Mall in Granger. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Michiana Beauty College is part of Moored Beauty Schools, with locations in St. Joseph, Holland and Traverse City. Careers with style begin at Michiana Beauty College, located at 7321 Heritage Square Drive, Granger, IN. 574.271.1542 or www.tcbeautycollege.com.

Continued from page 5 the closure of two offices before she was laid off in 1992. She stayed home to raise her kids, eventually remarrying Larry, who returned to school himself in 1978 after retiring from the U.S. Navy. “I said, ‘I don’t want to work at Target the rest of my life,’ and he said if something happened to him that he wanted me to have something to rely on,” she said. She’s taken out $7,000 student loans to help pay down her tuition costs of about $30,000. Curtis said the traditional model of employment — go to school, get a lifetime career in one place and then retire — has been changed by the behav-

quickly, he said, but that isn’t an option for everybody. In fact, he said there are few practical options for those who can’t find a job or can’t make enough money to repay the loans. “The only way you can get out of (them) is to die,” Curtis said. Richland advises its students through the loan process, said spokeswoman Lisa Gregory. “While we continually strive to appropriately advise students about the loan repayment obligations through the financial aid and degree completion process, it is the unfortunate reality that sometimes students are not successful,” Gregory said. “For those many students who are successful in the completion process, the area economy may not have job opportunities available to them. At times, default is a result.”

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269-428-2900 500 East 8th Street, Suite 500 574-271-1542 2600 Lincoln Ave. 494237321 Heritage Square Holland, Michigan St. Joseph, MI Granger, IN phone 616-355-5010 fax 616-355-5013

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Bachelor’s degree graduates from the class of 2012 had a small reason to be happier than those who graduated a year ahead of them. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, class of 2012 graduates who were able to find a job in a difficult job market earned an average salary that was 1.7 percent higher than the average salary earned by the class of 2011. Class of 2012 grads who landed a job earned an average of $44,259 while 2011 grads earned an average of $43,521. Though such a small percentage increase may not seem like a significant step in the right direction, NACE notes there were increases in salaries among all broad categories of majors, suggest-

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ior of companies and the economy. The scarce number of high-paying jobs in Decatur makes it likely she’ll move after she completes her education, she said. “Nobody stays in the same place anymore,” Curtis said. “Here in Decatur, you work in a factory or you get minimum wage jobs. People can’t afford to support their family on minimum wage jobs.” Larry moved back to Decatur after Hurricane Katrina wiped out his home and his livelihood in Louisiana. He’d become a registered nurse after he left the Navy, paying $300 per semester tuition at Arkansas State University and learning from instructors who were mostly younger than he was. His retirement benefits will mean his wife can afford to repay large amounts

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Choices In Education • January 2013 11

State of the State survey reveals college-going culture State’s adults aspire for their children to go to college LANSING — A new brief, “State of the State Survey Fall 2012: A Look at the College-Going Culture of Michigan Adults,” reveals that Michigan adults aspire for their children to go to college and believe a college education is education is somewhat or very important for a young person in Michigan to be successful in the labor market and their career. The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) contracted with the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR)

at Michigan State University to measure the college-going culture of adults in the state of Michigan. This was the first time questions were asked to evaluate a college-going culture. It is intended that the three questions will be asked on an annual basis in the fall of each year. Regional data disaggregation is also available. The survey shows more than 95 percent of adults feel a college education is “somewhat important” or “very important” for a young person in Michigan to be successful in the labor market and their career. Also, aspirations are high among those with children under 18. Of those surveyed with children, 97 percent believe it is “somewhat likely” or “very likely” their child will get a col-

lege education. “We are extremely pleased to learn Michigan adults aspire for their children to attend college and understand the importance of receiving a college degree,” said Brandy Johnson, executive director of the Michigan College Access Network. “It’s important our state has an understanding of Michigan’s college-going culture and that the desire for a college education is strong.” Although aspirations are high, the survey shows that affordability is still perceived as a barrier for many. More than 67 percent of Michigan residents “somewhat disagree” or “strongly disagree” that a college education is reasonably affordable for people in Michigan.

Support for every student

We offer these and many other choices in a small, safe, caring school environment. The whole community has supported our school improvements by passing bonds to modernize our building facilities. Call us at 684-7150 or check our website at www.brandywinebobcats.org.

As the leader in the state’s college access movement, MCAN’s mission is to increase Michigan’s college readiness, participation and completion rates, particularly among low-income students, first-generation college going students, and students of color. Michigan has recently experienced a modest increase in its college attainment rate — from 35.6 percent of 25-to-64-yearolds possessing at least an associate’s degree, to 36.4 percent. However, Michigan’s rate still lags behind the national average of 37.9 percent. It is MCAN’s goal to increase Michigan’s postsecondary educational attainment rate to 60 percent by the year 2025. For more information, visit www.micollegeaccess.org.

BRANDYWINE Community Schools

We Are —

At Brandywine, we offer many options to prepare today’s students to meet tomorrow’s challenges. Here are some of the ways we can help learners of all ages: n Technology training and opportunities for all grade levels. n Extra help to get all students reading on grade level. n Online learning experiences at every grade level and building. n Alternative and adult education so that people can get high school diplomas, with free child care and flexible schedules. n Early college opportunities for qualifying students at Brandywine Senior High, a State of Michigan Reward School. n For home school students, online courses and the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities. n Partnership with Lake Michigan College for skilled trades program. n Tuition opportunities for out-of-state students at affordable rates. n Readers like us! Brandywine Elementary and Brandywine Middle/Senior High School both were winners in 2012 “Readers’ Choice” polls.

“This gap between college aspirations and affordability needs to be addressed in our state,” said Johnson. “We need to continue to educate today’s youth about the steps to get to college and how it can be affordable, but we also need to continue to work with the leaders of our state to understand the impact affordability is making on building a highly educated workforce in Michigan.” The brief is available on the Michigan College Access Network website at wwwmicollegeaccess.org. The results can also be viewed by geographic regions. The State of the State survey is a phone survey administered quarterly to measure citizen opinion on critical state issues.

“Commited to every student’s success!”

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Schools Of Choice Opportunities for 2013-2014! Out Of State Tuition Opportunities! Right Size, With Many Educational Opportunities!

Brandywine

Community Schools

THE RIGHT CHOICE! www.brandywinebobcats.org 1830 S. 3rd St • Niles, MI 49120 • 269-684-7150

Choices In Education • January 2013

Right sized (but growing) DUHS graduate founds school in Dominican Republic By JOHN EBY john.eby@leaderpub.com The Montessori school Sarah Ross founded three years ago in the Dominican Republic is growing, adding an Infants, Toddlers and Twos program in October. “It’s growing, but not too fast or too big,” Ross said Monday at Caruso’s. Her vision is to replicate this sustainable model throughout the country, “but I don’t want to go too fast and spiral out of control.” “Three-year-olds when I first opened the school are now 7. We couldn’t bear to say goodbye, but I knew it was not feasible to open two new programs.” A volunteer helps with 7-year-olds two mornings a week. There are plans for goats and a store to go along with its garden’s profitable produce. A second building on the property where she used to live is being utilized, but “we don’t aspire to be huge in numbers,” she said. “We aspire to make a huge difference with the children.” Since the school opened in November 2009, its team has educated more than 150 children, parents and teachers. There is another certified teacher, from Holland, Mich., but she’s going to Guatemala at the end of January. A Dominican par-

Want to donate? Send checks made out to 3 Mariposas Montessori Foundation to Janet Ross, 53682 Indian Lake Road, Dowagiac, MI 49047. For more information, go to www.3mari p o s a s m o n te s s o r i . com. A wish list of materials to donate, such as art supplies, books, health snacks and vitamins, can be found on the website.

ent is close to Montessori certification. In all, there are a dozen adults — five for 0-3, three for 3-6, one for 7 and three administrators, including Ross’s assistant and a development coordinator. It costs $250 a month to sponsor a teacher, $100 for a child and $40 for a parent. The school encourages teachers and volunteers to further education by making scholarships available and covering associated costs to attend Montessori certification courses, continuing education workshops and high school, university and English classes. A nurse from England volunteers 10 hours a week, meeting medical

needs which crop up during home visits.

Garden of Eden in ‘The Swamp’ Ross, 38, a 1992 Union High graduate and the youngest of Harvey and Janet Ross’s three children, has been here for Christmas, sledding with her 19-month-old son, Felix, who will be trilingual in English, Spanish and German. Her Austrian husband, Helmut, is an auto mechanic with a garage near 3 Mariposas on the north shore in the La Cienaga neighborhood (“The Swamp”) of Cabarete. The name in Spanish means “three butterflies,” encompassing training students, parents and teachers. Sarah spent a summer in Switzerland and traveled to Nigeria, Africa, through Rotary and St. Denys Foundation, which became the school’s major benefactor. Individuals such as Bill Leader photo/JOHN EBY and Diana Grabemeyer and John and Andrea Rosevelt, Sarah Ross, pictured in Beckwith Park Jan. 7, returns to contribute, too. “Donors are a big part of the Dominican Republic today. While home in Dowagiac who we’ve become,” she for Christmas, the ’92 DUHS graduate taught her son, said, “not just Dowagiac, Felix, a new word, “cold.” but Wisconsin, my sister’s church which brings 30 youth for a week of com- terested in coming.” around the world, we were munity service projects, chosen to receive help MSU — this spring will be Boston bringing from Nourish International. its third service learning teaching store This particular chapter is trip — and, next year, Unifrom Boston University. versity of Michigan is in“Out of 40 organizations They aspire to fundraise

$8,000 to $10,000 for our school store. Parents and older children would learn business skills, marketing and math. Parents would take a per-w centage of the income forf their family. A small per-t centage would go to main-i taining the school. Parentss are learning to make pillowcase dresses on donatedt sewing machines,” Rossc said. m Her mother is Dowagi-n ac’s retired school nurse.P Her parents make frequent“ mission trips, includinga New Orleans after Hurri-c cane Katrina in 2005. s Sister Katie, who lives inl Grand Rapids, followedr her mother into nursing. She has four sons withw Troy Silvernale and deliv-r ered more than 700 babiess as a midwife. g Brother John, an attorney, has four children witht Celeste. u Sarah first went her se-e nior year at Michigan Statec University in 1997 to learn9 Spanish living with a local family. She taught English as a second language three years in Wyoming, Mich. But she “missed the Dominican Republic’s culture and warm weather, so I went back and worked for a large nonprofit for almost five years doing teacher training and working with volunteers who came down to help in the various schools.” Her “love for different cultures and languages” she traces to summers working for Dowagiac’s migrant program at Sister Lakes Elementary, where she attended grade school.

Education group ranks Michigan sixth in reform efforts By LORI HIGGINS Detroit Free Press (MCT) Michigan ranks sixth in the nation for its education reform efforts, but even with the high ranking the state only received a grade of C-, according to rankings released by StudentsFirst, a national

group formed by a controversial figure in education reform. The Washington-based organization was launched in 2010 by Michelle Rhee, former chancellor for the school district in Washington, D.C. No state received an A. The top ranked states — Florida and Louisiana —

received B-. The group noted that Michigan lawmakers have passed a number of bills recently that fit the organization’s beliefs — like changes to teacher tenure that make it more difficult for teachers to attain and retain tenure — and make it easier to remove ineffective teachers, as well as legislation that

ties teacher evaluations more closely to student achievement. But StudentsFirst says Michigan need to show improvement. Michigan also has a relatively new law — one Rhee has been pushing across the country — that bars school districts from using seniority as the main factor in making lay-

off decisions. “The state could do more to empower parents by providing them with useful information regarding school and teacher performance,” the group says. “Michigan must also strengthen accountability for public charter schools and remove arbitrary barriers to their growth.”

Sen. Phil Pavlov, R-St. Clair Township, said the report cards are important because it shows whether Michigan has the right policies in place “and it shows how we match up with other states,” according to a press release from StudentsFirst. Pavlov chairs the Senate Education Committee.

Choices In Education • January 2013 13

Volunteers needed for Reading Day United Way of Southwest Michigan prepares for Day of Action

United Way of Southwest Michigan is looking for a few hundred volunteers on March 19 to go into classrooms and preschools to read to children. “Volunteers can choose to give either an hour or choose to read the entire morning or the entire afternoon,” said United Way President Anna Murphy. “The volunteer reads for about 15 minutes in each classroom they are assigned and by the time they leave, they remember why reading is so much fun.” Volunteers can select which school they want to read in and will be assigned a pre-K to fifth grade classrooms. Sign up is simple. Volunteers can sign up at www. uwsm.org/reading. Teachers can also sign up their classrooms. Call (269) 982-1700 to volunteer.

United Way event organizers expect there will be about 250 volunteers in more than 400 classrooms and pre-schools throughout Berrien and Cass counties. “March is reading month and we want to help people encourage early literacy by showing kids how much fun reading can be,” Murphy said. “It really makes an impact on children when they see adults taking the time to come in a read because it is so important.” The statistics about early literacy are powerful suggesting a strong link between early literacy and success later in life. For example, the average student learns about 3,000 words per year in the early school years. That’s eight new words each day. Children who don’t read well early tend to struggle in their later education be-

Tammy Yeager of BorgessLee Hospital read to students at Northside Child Development Center in Niles during last year’s Action Day of Reading.

fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare. “This is a great way to Live United by showing kids in our community we care about their futures,” Murphy said. “I think it is a wonderful way to spend a few hours.”

cause they can’t read well enough, quickly enough or easily enough. It is a financial problem too. It is esti-

mated that more than $2 billion is spent each year on students who repeat a grade because they have

reading problems. Statistically, two-thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the end of the

Rich Drews of Midwest Energy took part in the Reading Day of Action at Howard Elementary in Niles last year.

United Way is a global network that advances the common good, creating opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on the three key building blocks of education, income, health and basic needs. The United Way movement creates long lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of problems that prevent progress in these areas. Live United is a call to action for everyone to become a part of the change.

Leader file photos

Adam Zeigler of Walmart reading to students at Northside Child Development Center in Niles.

Bridge Magazine ranks Michigan schools By JOHN EBY john.eby @leaderpub.com An analysis ranking 560 traditional Michigan public schools and charters places Dowagiac at 87 — ahead of Edwardsburg at 89 for best in Cass County. Also trailing Dowagiac are Marcellus Community Schools at 187, Kalamazoo Public Schools at 228, St. Joseph Public Schools at 247, South Haven Public Schools at 251, Bran-

dywine Community Schools at 319 and Cassopolis Public Schools at 359. “This is great,” Dowagiac Deputy Supt. Dawn Conner said Friday. “This shows how hard we work here and the good things we are doing.” Dowagiac lags behind Berrien Springs Public Schools at 19, Eau Claire Public Schools at 31, Buchanan Community Schools at 38, Niles Community Schools at 40,

Three Rivers Community Schools at 49, Watervliet School District at 67 and Lakeshore School District at 68. The top 52 Michigan public school districts and charters were named Academic State Champions for the 2011-12 school year. Winners were drawn from a database created by Bridge Magazine and Public Sector Consultants of traditional public school districts and charter

schools offering kindergarten through 12th grade. The analysis ranks schools by how much value they add to students’ expected achievement. A Value-Added Matrix (VAM) score of 100 indicates a school’s students are achieving at expected levels for their income level. The higher the score, the better a school’s students are performing on standardized tests. D o w a g i a c ’s VA M , 106.09, takes into account

110.53 for 11th grade, 104.50 for eighth grade and 103.25 for fourth grade with 70.46 percent of district students qualifying for free and reduced lunches. Niles scored 109.21, with 61.83 percent of students qualifying for free and reduced lunches; Buchanan, 109.29, with 49.16 percent free and reduced lunches; Brandywine, 99.11, with 61.99 percent free and reduced lunches.

School rankings n Buchanan Community Schools: 38 n Niles Community Schools: 40 n Dowagiac: 87 n Edwardsburg, 89 n St. Joseph Public Schools: 247 n Brandywine Community Schools: 319 n Cassopolis Public Schools: 359 Edwardsburg scored 105.95, with 39.21 percent free and reduced lunches. Cassopolis came in at 98.02, with 58.22 percent free and reduced lunches.

Choices In Education • January 2013

Finding value: Build a future with Holy Cross College as a foundation

with skills you need to lead a successful and fulfilling life. Holy Cross College’s four-year bachelor of arts degrees are designed to take students beyond the classroom into professional internships, international experiences, service learning projects and a senior capstone presentation. These experience-based programs build confidence and put into practice the information, skill and ideas learned in the classroom, as well as testing moral principles, faith and integrity. These concepts are the basis for our Four Pillars of learning. They build the foundation for The value of a Holy Cross Colyou to become a leader in a complex world lege education lies in the possibili- economy. ties for your future. We encourage our students to work hard, but also play hard. Through your personal interaction with caring The fun of college is being involved. Try out professors and mentors, the support of a close-knit for one of the many NAIA athletic teams, join campus community and the resources of the clubs, play intramurals, run for student governneighboring University of Notre Dame and Saint ment and audition for plays or choirs. Holy Mary’s College campuses, you will be equipped Cross students can buy ND Football tickets,

Apply online at: www.hcc-nd.edu

Call 574.239.8400 to set up a campus visit. Facebook.com/ HolyCrossCollege Saints

Shadow Days are Feb. 8th and 18th, March 22nd and April 12th

The Core: Four life-changing experiences- global experience, professional internship, service learning project and Senior Capstone presentation. We prepare you to be a leader in a global economy!

Affordable: The lowest tuition rate of private four-year colleges in Indiana and a Tuition Lock that guarantees not to raise individual tuition during enrollment. 90% of our students receive financial aid.

Strong Relationships: 13-to-1 student/faculty ratio means you’ll never get lost in the crowd. Know your professors and classmates! We are here to help you succeed!

play in the ND marching band and are eligible for ROTC training and scholarships. Our student life group provides great activities to keep students engaged and sharp. Play dodge ball or Polar Bear Volleyball outdoors in the dead of winter or show your talent off at open mic nights. Want a more spiritual experience? Get involved in campus ministry and appreciate the daily Catholic mass or gaze out over the St. Joe River for some quiet reflection. Live, explore and grow at Holy Cross. Want to be challenged? Come to Holy Cross for a visit by calling (574) 239-8400 or reserve some time for our Shadow Days, where you go to hang with a student that shares your interest. Attend a class, tour campus, meet our faculty and enjoy lunch in our dining hall. Shadow Days are scheduled for Feb. 8 and 18, March 22 and April 12. See you then!

Twitter.com/HolyCrossND

Community: The best of both worlds-- a small college in a big university setting-Notre Dame, Indiana. Get involved and live your life! Want tickets to ND football games, our students can buy them. Want to play in the ND marching band, our students can do that. Want to join a club at St. Mary’s, you can!

Highly Rated: A Top 10% School in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). Our students are happy and engaged with the community!

Distinctly Catholic: We are affiliated with the Brothers of Holy Cross who run schools across the world with strong traditions of faith and academic excellence.

Choices In Education • January 2013 15

Cultural sharing: Host families needed now Have you ever wondered about the exchange students and their host families at your local high school? These students are coming to America from all over the world to experience American family life and learn about our country and culture as we know it.

They are wonderful English-speaking ambassadors of their countries. The host families that are providing room and board are also sharing the warmth and support of their home and the love that each family member shares. These host families experience another country by never leaving their own community. However, traveling overseas to visit their International son or daughter is very popular. The memories and love that is generated will be for a lifetime. But we need quality host families like you in Michigan to make all this happen. I know there are many families out there that

have thought about hosting, but never knew how to go about it. Everyone has something to share. Please join us by welcoming our world neighbors to Michigan by hosting. Visit www.isecrossroads.com to meet our students needing homes, and you can apply online or call Tiffany Adams, regional manager for International Student Exchange at (877) 283-5470 to learn how you can become part of this community effort and make a difference simply by opening your door. — Tiffany Adams, ISE Regional Manager

Seeking Volunteer

Host Families Share in a culturally rewarding experience by becoming a volunteer host family for foreign exchange high school students from around the globe. Students range in age from 15- 18 1/2, will be part of your family and will attend your local high school. Our students have their own health insurance and spending money. As a volunteer host family you will have the support of a highly dedicated network of professionals to assist you right from the submission of your application until the time that your student returns home. You can host a student from a country of your choice for 5, 10,or 12 months.

Open your heart and soul and bring a student into your world!

VISIT OUR STUDENTS AT WWW.ISECROSSROADS.COM

Tiffany Adams • (574) 893-1744 • 877-283-5470 hostastudent@rtcol.com

Choices In Education • January 2013

Partners by degree:

To learn more about starting or finishing your path to a new career, contact Lake Michigan College at (269) 927-8170 or visit www.lakemichigancollege. edu/start. Contact WMU-Southwest at (269) 934-1500 or visit www.wmich.edu/finish.

Lake Michigan College and WMU-Southwest Lake Michigan College and Western Michigan University – Southwest have teamed up so students can earn a bachelor’s degree in one of four areas of study ... close to home and work. LMC and WMU-Southwest provide students a seamless transition from associate’s degree to bachelor’s degree in one location. Students can complete the first two years at LMC, earning an associate’s degree. Then seamlessly transfer all of the credits to Western Michigan University – Southwest, located on LMC’s Napier Avenue campus. There, they can complete all of the remaining classes to earn a bachelor’s degree, without the need to travel to WMU’s main campus in Kalamazoo. “With this partnership, students can save money, save time, receive a high quality education, and earn the credentials needed to begin a great career,” said Western Michigan University – Southwest Director Luann Harden. In addition, this growing partnership has allowed WMU to create the WMU– Southwest Advantage, a tuition remission program to assist students in taking the next step in their continuing education. The WMU-Southwest Advantage offers each LMC transfer student one WMU-Southwest course at LMC tuition rates. Transfer programs n Business Administration (Management major/General Business minor): Whether interests lie in accounting, finance or marketing, this program blends theory and practice to put students on track to accomplish future career goals. n Elementary Education: Student-centered learning is the focus so that graduates use current technologies, methods, skills and strategies to become effective elementary school educators. They can obtain the early childhood endorsement, if desired. n Engineering – Students gain an understanding of how to design for manufacturability as faculty teach skills that are in-demand by manufacturers in automotive, metal working, plastics, paper, aerospace, furniture, appliance and other industries. n Nursing – Through an accredited program and state-of-the-art nursing training facility, students learn, practice, and demonstrate reallife skills using high-tech simulation equipment. WMU’s classes are offered in a hybrid format. Made for working adults Both LMC and WMU-Southwest schedule evening and weekend classes so students can have a job, an education, and a life. The scheduling flexibility is helpful for many students who work full-time and attend classes part-time.