ACHIEVE!
School Choice Guide fall 2014
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Raise grades with online learning tools
Get set * 5 ways for School! ( ) to prepare your child for Kindergarten! from
Excellent Schools Detroit
DID YOU KN
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THAT IN AN EAA PUBLIC SCHOOL … 1
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All students will have their own individual learning plan.
We offer a 21st century education for our students, including special education programs.
Safety is our priority; safety personnel are stationed in all EAA schools.
Each student who completes two years of high school can apply for a two year scholarship at participating community colleges.
OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR ALL STUDENTS
• Pre-Kindergarten seats are available for children 3-5 years old. • Children who are 5 years of age on or before December 1, 2014 can enroll in kindergarten for September. • Incoming 9th Graders can enroll in high school. • New & Transfer Students can enroll now. • The first day of school is Tuesday, September 2, 2014
LISTING OF ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE SCHOOLS Brenda Scott Elementary/Middle 18440 Hoover Street Detroit, MI 48205 313-866-6700
Mary M. Bethune Elementary/Middle 8145 Puritan Street Detroit, MI 48221 313-494-3830
Burns Elementary/Middle 14350 Terry Street Detroit, MI 48227 313-852-0534
Nolan Elementary/Middle 1150 E. Lantz Street Detroit, MI 48203 313-866-7730
Law Academy Pre-Kindergarten – 8 19411 Cliff Street Detroit, MI 48234 313-866-3400
Phoenix Multicultural Academy 7735 Lane Street Detroit, MI 48209 313-849-2419
LISTING OF HIGH SCHOOLS Central Collegiate Academy 2425 Tuxedo Street Detroit, MI 48206 313-252-3000
Mumford High School 17525 Wyoming Street Detroit, MI 48221 313-416-7400
Denby High School 12800 Kelly Road Detroit, MI 48224 313-866-7200
Pershing High School 18875 Ryan Road Detroit, MI 48234 313-866-7700
Henry Ford High School 20000 Evergreen Road Detroit, MI 48219 313-494-7567
Southeastern High School of Technology and Law 3030 Fairview Street Detroit, MI 48214 313-866-4500
Veronica Conforme, Interim Chancellor
“ All children deserve a safe, vibrant learning experience. We’re giving students the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of race, income or zip code.”
For more information visit ICanSoar.org, call the EAA at 313-263-9800 or call a school above to take a tour. 2 ACHIEVE • AUGUST 2014
Table of Contents
INSIDE...
Hiram E. Jackson Publisher, Michigan Chronicle
Page 5. School types explained Page 6. Raise grades with online learning tools Page 9. What to expect when your child goes in for a back to school check up
Hiram E. Jackson Publisher, Michigan Chronicle
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s soon as a person learns that they will become a parent they begin to get ready for the decisions that will have to be made for the life that will soon be in their arms. They research and read as much as they can so that they are prepared. One of the most important decisions parents will make is determining how and where your child will be educated. Just as you began researching doctors, and diapers long before your child was born you should begin researching options for your child’s education early.
Page 10. 5 ways to prepare your child for Kindergarten Page 12. Making all schools accountable for students Page 14. A “new day” in Ecorse Public Schools
In today’s environment reading, writing and arithmetic alone will not be enough to adequately prepare our children for success in the Digital Information Age that we live in. Now more than in any point in our history, education is the key to the success for our children. As parents we want to sufficiently prepare our children for a more connected global world. That preparation begins as soon as they set foot into their first classroom. While there is considerable and appropriate attention being paid to higher education there are limited conversations about the transformations taking place in our schools and the available options for parents and students in Kindergarten though 12th grade.
Page 15. The greater STEM comes to Detroit Page 18. Summer fun to school year structure Page 17. Michigan eLibrary offers more Access to Information
Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the transition from elementary school to middle school; everyday parents struggle with how to help their child get the most out of their education. ACHIEVE! A school choice guide stands in the gap as a resource for parents. A guide that provides parents with information to help them bring out the best in their children and help them to ACHIEVE!
Page 18. Detroit Public Schools continues forward momentum with new brand Managing Editor : Rian J. Barnhill
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The difference between public, private, School magnet, charter and EAA Types Explained:
By Maureen Boland Approximately 46 million students are enrolled in the nation’s public schools in grades kindergarten through 12. Another six million attend private schools. But if you read the newspapers, you know it’s not that simple anymore. Several new types of schools have appeared in recent years. What’s the difference between a magnet school and a charter school? Parochial and proprietary? Which one is best for your child? Here’s a brief description of the different types of schools on today’s educational landscape.
Charter Schools
In the United States, charter schools are primary or secondary schools that receive public money (and like other schools, may also receive private donations). They are subject to some of the rules, regulations and statutes that apply to other public schools but generally have more flexibility than traditional public schools. Charter schools are expected to produce certain results, set forth in each school’s charter.Charter schools are attended by choice. In exchange for flexibility, charter schools receive less funding than public schools in the same area and do not receive any facilities funding which typically pays for a public school’s maintenance and janitorial needs. Although charter schools provide an alternative to other public schools, they are part of the public education system and are not allowed to charge tuition. Admission is typically allocated by lottery-based admissions systems and the lottery is open to all students.
Education Achievement Authority Schools
The Education Achievement Authority is a new statewide schools system that will assume operation of the lowest five percent of performing schools in the State of Michigan. The system is working to transform them into stable, financially responsible public schools that provide the conditions, tools, resources, support and safe learning environments under which teachers can help students make significant academic gains.
Public Schools
Public schools are free schools provided by the government, paid for by taxes. Michigan offers several types of free public school programs for children in kindergarten, elementary school, middle school and high school. All children in Michigan have a right to free public education. Most public schools are run by local or regional school committees. School committees make policy, staffing and budget decisions for their school districts. Each public school is headed by a school principal who is responsible for the operation of the school and reports to the school district superintendent
Private Schools
Private schools, also known as independent schools or parochial schools, are not administered by local, state or national governments; thus, they retain the right to select their students and are funded in whole or in part by charging their students tuition rather than relying on public funding. At some private schools students may be able to get a scholarship, which makes the cost cheaper depending on a talent the student may have, e.g. sport scholarship, art scholarship, academic scholarship, etc. Private schools are typically more expensive than their public counterparts.
Magnet Schools
Magnet schools are highly competitive, highly selective public schools renowned for their special programs, superior facilities, and high academic standards. They may specialize in a particular area, such as science or the arts. Students who apply to these schools go through a rigorous testing and application process. Magnet schools were first launched in the late 1970s to help desegregate public school systems by encouraging children to attend schools outside their neighborhoods. Student diversity is still an explicit goal of most magnet schools. AUGUST 2014 • ACHIEVE
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New Paradigm for Education makes college a reality for Detroit students
Raise grades with online learning tools Unfortunately, the pace of classroom learning can’t be tailored to every student’s individual needs -- particularly these days, as class sizes are growing and funding for special enrichment programs becomes limited. In fact, at least 35 states provided less funding per student for the 2013-14 school year than they did before the recession. Many children will need to spend some time outside the classroom going beyond their regular homework to keep up or get ahead in school. No matter what your child’s education goals are, there are great ways you can help make this school year the best one yet: • Math practice: Square roots, polynomials, quadrilaterals. Learning these terms and concepts can get dicey quickly. Keeping up at home is important, and sometimes requires more than just doing the day’s take-home assignment. Consider supplementing homework with online tools. For example, Shmoop, an online learning and test prep provider, provides free study guides for review and courses for remedial work in many academic topics, including social science, arts and music, science and English. Their math tutorials cover everything from Pre-Algebra to Calculus and the step bystep explanations that the program offers can be helpful to any student looking for an extra edge. • Read the classics: Kids who read for pleasure can improve their grades. Not only will the exposure to literary giants like John Steinbeck, Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe build
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vocabulary and improve reading comprehension, there is much to be learned about history and culture from picking up a great book, such as “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Be sure to use tools that can help clarify some of the denser material. Online learning guides can be a great place to get synopses and analysis. • Use flashcards: It may sound quaint, but there is really no substitute for quizzing yourself with a flash card. Even the act of creating the flashcard can help reinforce concepts and facts. • Extra Help: A little extra academic help after school can sometimes mean the difference between struggle and success. But between school and soccer practice, ballet lessons and getting dinner on the table, adding a tutor or after school class to the list might be a logistical impossibility. Consider online courses that can be completed from the comfort of home and are common core aligned. For example, Shmoop’s offerings are diverse, ranging from 7th grade math to second semester 12th grade British Literature. For those students taking Advanced Placement courses this fall, check out their AP test prep courses. These courses help students nail the important, for-credit, year-end exam. More information can be found at www. Shmoop.com. With a bit of extra effort and the use of savvy learning tools, kids can gain a competitive edge this school year.
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irst Lady Michelle Obama has recently taken on the challenge of focusing attention on having children not only complete high school, but also aspire for higher education. The push toward college is a goal worth attaining, however preparation has to begin early, especially for students of color. Charter Management Organization New Paradigm for Education (NPFE) is setting the bar high for Detroit students with more and more stepping up and reaching for the brass ring - a college education and a future filled with endless possibilities. Currently, NPFE has four schools in Detroit, and is a key partner in helping coordinate the opening of 40 new schools in the city by 2015 and 70 by 2020. With a focus on college readiness from kindergarten on up, the rigorous curriculum and development of skills outside the classroom, pave the road towards higher goals beyond K-12. “We work to build strong character and self-study skills in students in all of our schools,” says Ralph Bland, CEO of New Paradigm for Education. “We set up an environment of success and high expectations for the young people and it’s no surprise they are meeting and exceeding those expectations.” The NPFE educational model is patterned after its first school, Detroit Edison
Public School Academy (DEPSA) that was opened in 1998. Also, Detroit Early College of Excellence is on the same property, near Detroit’s Eastern Market. Both were authorized by Oakland University. DEPSA was selected as one of the top 51 charter schools in the nation by the Center for Education Reform. NPFE uses the academy’s principles in all of its other member schools. DEPSA graduated its first class this year, with 100% of the students attending college, universities or trade schools across the country, including Ivy League and military academies. New Paradigm Loving Academy and New Paradigm Glazer Academy are both authorized by Detroit Public Schools and were opened in 2011, kindergarten to seventh grade students. NPFE is set to open a fifth campus location, New Paradigm College Prep, authorized by Grand Valley State University, in the fall, in a renovated building, located in Southwest Detroit. As efforts in the state and across the nation zero in on getting students ready for their futures, NPFE is already ahead of the curve, generating results and more confident young people. For more information on any of the New Paradigm for Education schools, call (313) 269-0024.
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Your Road to High School (. . . and College) Graduation Starts Here
Detroit Delta Prep Offers a Small, Supportive Option
D
etroit Delta Preparatory Academy for Social Justice is the dream high school of a small group of Detroit educators, passionate supporters of young people, and members of the Detroit Alumnae Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Led by founders and head dreamers Edythe Hayden Friley and Brenda Gatlin, who now sit on the Board of Directors of one of Detroit’s newest high schools, Detroit Delta Prep, was designed to support young people in achieving the very best success and to prepare Detroit’s high school students to serve their community. The social justice theme is important because students will learn to become leaders, contribute to their city and their world, and really make a difference while preparing for their own future in college and beyond. Delta Prep has a partnership with national leader in instructional strategies, the Institute for Student Achievement (ISA), which has had tremendous success in preparing urban students for college, and has helped infuse the Social Justice theme throughout the curriculum. Students will discuss and approach the Social Justice theme from different angles by grade.
Ninth graders will begin their high school career by exploring social justice topics including nonviolent activism, human rights, poverty, education, and domestic violence through inquiry-based projects, film studies and grade-level forums. Tenth graders will examine social justice in the City of Detroit by researching the history of the city, focusing on key events including the birth of the automobile, the Motown Sound, 1967 riots, High school students will be immersed in the Social Justice theme. Principal Meagan Brown says: “Delta Prep students will learn to serve their community as activists, human rights supporters, and create and share their vision of a revitalized Detroit. Come join us. ALL students will shine here.” and the economic decline. At the end of 10th grade, students will each produce and present their “Rebirth Project” designed to offer solutions to revitalize Detroit. School leader, Mrs. Meagan Brown, a native Detroiter with a passion for working with young people, is looking forward to transforming education in the City of Detroit. Under her leadership, students will receive a rigorous education preparing them for academic success in high school and the college of their choice, while also providing a safe, supportive and
Your Invitation to Enroll :
Detroit’s Newest HIGH SCHOOL
nurturing school community. Delta Prep will be a community-supported school, students will benefit from weekly enrichment experiences unlike any other in Detroit. Carefully selected adult mentors will work with students and provide opportunities to become active in the community. Each Wednesday will be “Community Day” and students will work one-on-one with community partners from local universities, local service organizations, and teen advocacy groups to create projects that will address the social injustices they see in their community and city. During the first semester, students will explore various topics with their mentors and learn the skills necessary to work in the community. Principal Meagan Brown says, “Everyone on our team is committed to educating children. We chose to be educators so we can impart knowledge, form lifetime bonds, and watch our students flourish.” Located in Midtown, just south of Wayne State University, the Detroit Delta Preparatory Academy for Social Justice is a Michigan Future Schools grant recipient, which supports the college success model. Ferris State University has authorized the new academy. Enrollment is open to all incoming 9th and 10th graders. Call 313-769-4717 or email Mrs. Meagan Brown at mbrown@detroitdeltaprep.org for details.
Join Us for Parent Night
Wednesday, August 20 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Detroit Delta Preparatory Academy for Social Justice Enroll Now! Don’t Wait Another Day to Call! 313-769-4717 www.detroitdeltaprep.org 3550 John C. Lodge Freeway at MLK Boulevard in Midtown Detroit #ShineHere
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What to expect when your child goes in for a back to school checkup By: Dr. Jann Caison-Sorey, pediatrician, adolescent medicine physician and senior medical director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
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yearly physical exam by your family physician or pediatrician is an important part of your child’s health care. As children get older, back to school checkups are sometimes the only visit kids and teenagers have with their doctor every year. An annual check-up gives the physician a chance to give the child a thorough physical examination. It also presents a great opportunity to discuss important topics especially with teenagers, including adolescent issues like drinking, smoking, drugs and depression.
Part #1 - Medical History: Reviewed with the child and parent, discussing the child’s medical history enables the doctor to get a better idea of the child’s overall health throughout his or her lifetime. It also helps the doctor to understand if the child may have any potential health (physical, psycho-social /emotional) issues. This is also an ideal time to bring up any questions or concerns about the child so that the physician can best address those issues during the exam. Part #2 - Physical Examination:
If a child is participating in sports at school, there is no substitute for a sports physical performed by the family physician or pediatrician to accomplish the goals of the sports exam. When it comes to playing sports, a child’s health is the most important factor. Getting sports physical, or a pre-participation physical examination, makes sure that the child is healthy enough to play and alleviates concerns, as well as identifies potential issues.
The actual physical examination is the part of the office visit when the doctor will assess and record critical health elements such as the child’s height and weight, vital signs including heart health, organs, posture, joints, strength and flexibility. During the physical exam, the doctor will also check hearing, vision and ask questions relating to milestones determine if the child is on track in all areas of physical and mental development. If any areas of concern are identified, the physician may require additional testing for the child, either in the office or with a specialist.
Here’s what you can expect at your child’s back to school or annual physical:
You know your child best so anytime you take your child
Speak Up:
to the doctor, it is extremely important to bring up any pre-existing conditions, observations or concerns with your child’s health to the provider. When having your child screened for a sports physical, in addition to the physician screening for heart and lung irregularities, be sure to bring up any questions or issues with asthma, irregularities or previous injuries. The doctor may prescribe or adjust medication to address a child’s symptoms or make activity easier by suggesting modifications. The doctor may also be able to give training tips and advice to help a child avoid future injuries or strain on the body. Discussing potential issues and health concerns ahead of time can ensure a safe sports season and prevent unnecessary risk to your child. Remember, annual physical visits are a crucial part of the back to school routine. Dr. Jann Caison-Sorey is a pediatrician, adolescent medicine physician and senior medical director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more information and tips on your family’s health, visit AHealthierMichigan. org.
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Advice from Excellent Schools Detroit:
Visit Your School Before the school year starts, visit your school with your child. Look around, get familiar with the building, and meet teachers. Get familiar with the place so the first day of school is more comfortable for both of you.
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When our kids start school early, they get ahead. Kindergarten matters, and it’s free for your five-year-old to attend! Here are a few tips to help your family prepare.
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Build a Routine Do an activity to help your child learn everyday. A month before school starts, get your child in the habit of going to bed early. If you can, start a morning routine that you’ll use when kindergarten starts. Make a plan for how your child will get to school in the morning and how they will get home when school’s out. Most kindergartens start around 8am.
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Connect with Other Families Raising kids is hard, but friends can make it easier. If you haven’t already, meet other parents who are preparing for kindergarten. There are many resources in our city, and here are just a few: Parent Resource Centers across the city
(313) 873-7490 www.detroitk12.org/resources/parents/prc
or the classroom, help your child
Detroit Parent Network Support Groups
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(313) 309-8106 www.detroitparentnetwork.org
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Education Detroit Parent Resource Guide
www.metroparent.com/edresources
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n ways to learn everyday. Point out when you are outside. Read to them th them. Practice counting when you er. Listen to their questions and try ways to play. Label things around th new words to learn. Create poster t what you’re learning together.
Find Out What You Should Expect Kindergarten isn’t what it used to be—kids are learning more and they’re learning faster than twenty years ago. Ask your school for resources about what your child will learn, and spend time with your child’s new teacher to understand how they teach. Find out how to stay in touch during the school year. You can even volunteer in the classroom.
To attend kindergarten this year, your child must be five years or older on October 1. The state government changed this rule, and it’s different from last year. Are you looking for a free kindergarten to enroll your child in? Do you want to explore more kindergarten resources? Visit us online at: www.excellentschoolsdetroit.org/kindergarten
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The goal: Making all schools accountable for students By Dan Quisenberry President, Michigan Association of Public School Academies There’s a terrific school in Hamtramck called Hamtramck Academy, where 81 percent of students tested proficient for reading by the end of third grade this year. That’s up from 69 percent just three years ago, and it’s 33 percentage points higher than the citywide average in Hamtramck for the past school year. An elementary school that’s beating the local average by 33 points. Wow. H a m tramck Academy is a charter school, and the school’s success shows that innovation and accountability will lead to student success. With too many students still stuck in schools that aren’t performing, this is what we need more of. There will be 18 new charter schools opening in Michigan this fall (including six in Detroit), and while it’s great that parents will have more quality educational choices, choice alone isn’t enough. We’ve always said that Michigan doesn’t need more schools – Michigan needs more great schools. Every child deserves a quality education in a quality school, and the way to achieve this goal is for all public schools – charter and traditional - to be held to the same high standards of accountability and performance. MAPSA recently asked every public school official in the state to take a School Accountability Pledge. You’ll find it at www.isupportthepledge.com. This request was e-mailed to every school district in the state, inviting them to live under the same – and additional – accountability standards that charter schools have to follow. The pledge includes these tougher standards that charter schools operate under: • Charter public schools operate under a performance contract that says they’ll be shut down if they fail to operate to a level satisfactory to their authorizer. All schools should be this accountable. • Charter public schools have to accept any
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student in Michigan, no matter where they live. Traditional public schools do not. • Charter public schools have an automatic closure provision if a school is in the bottom 5 percent for 4 or more years. Traditional public schools do not. If the goal is to have every public school in the state operating under the same standards, then we invite all traditional public schools to sign this pledge. Charter schools agree to hold themselves accountable for their performance. The state’s traditional public schools should agree to, as well. In fact, this is why MAPSA has supported legislation that creates a new, single, state-wide accountability system that focuses on student outcomes. Parents need an easy-to-understand A-F letter-grading system. We hold students accountable by grading them; let’s do the same for schools. Schools failing to meet the grade should then be subject to closure. We need to close bad schools – charter, traditional, whatever. One of the hallmarks of charter schools is that if they aren’t working, authorizers do change them and close them, and the current charter school law contains an automatic closure provision for charter schools. That doesn’t happen with traditional public schools; not a single one of them has ever been closed for poor academic performance. Ever. That needs to change. Finally, we also need to pass a bill that requires our schools to put an emphasis on early literacy. If a child can’t read by third grade, we’re condemning that child to a bleak future. What we need to be talking about is how to make sure that every child receives a quality education in a quality school, like Hamtramck Academy. Dan Quisenberry is the president of the Michigan Association of Public School Academies, the state charter school association.
A New High School Option is Opening in Midtown
With a Laser Focus on Each Student’s Future Success
S
chools for the Future Detroit is founded on the belief that every young person deserves an opportunity to have a quality high school education. School Leader, Kerri Timar describes the vision of the new school, “We’re preparing students for higher education, a great career and a great life. SFF Detroit will be a small, college-prep high school where any student can achieve success.” The new high school, which received grant support from Michigan Future Schools and is authorized as a public school academy by Ferris State University, will open at the corner of MLK Blvd and the Lodge Service Drive in Midtown on September 2, 2014. Timar, who has dedicated her professional career to supporting and educating Detroit students in and out of the classroom, has years of experience using technology to support academic environments. Timar welcomes all students who will be entering high school Grades 9 and 10 to join her this fall as she leads the new Schools for the Future Detroit. The school was founded to make sure all students receive a high‐ quality personalized high school education that prepares them for college success. Timar will be joined by a Dean of Students, Counselor, Social Worker, Recruitment & Retention Specialist, Community Partnership Specialist, and Operations Manager all on site to help provide the extensive student support today’s young people need to make sure they are successful in a safe, nurturing environment. These highly qualified, dedicated support staff and hand-selected teachers will make sure all students receive the support they need academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the school day and school year. Every student is a member of a team, called a PACT at SFF Detroit, dedicated to helping them develop the skills they will need for college and life success, including confidence and determination.
Timar explains that “at Schools for the Future Detroit, everyone believes that both staff and students play key roles in creating a successful school culture and community.” During staff professional development in August, everyone on staff will collaborate with Schools for the Future National team experts on developing social, educational, and philosophical activities and team building. Prior to the first day of school, all students and their families are invited to an open house orientation where they can meet the principal, teachers, and support staff, tour the building and enjoy refreshments. The Open House is Thursday, August 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and open to all. Student orientation will continue into the first two weeks of school as students establish relationships with their peers and mentor, learn to use their technology, both mobile devices and state-of-the-art lab stations with Microsoft Office 365, and learn to navigate their flexible schedule. Advisors and teachers will celebrate student progress, provide students with leadership opportunities including student-led conferences, clubs tailored to student interests, and “learning quests” that allow students to earn high school credit outside of the school. Going forward, expectations will include staff and student participation in monthly recognition ceremonies that will acknowledge social/behavioral, academic, and character/leadership accomplishments. Principal Timar welcomes all students to achieve their dreams and join her this fall as she leads the new Schools for the Future Detroit. Call 313-769-4717, follow us on Facebook at Schools 4 Future Detroit 2014, visit the website at www. schools4futuredetroit.org, or email ktimar@schools4futuredetroit.org. Check out Ms. Timar’s YouTube video invitation at: http://youtu.be/ i5DpImt1zgg
DETROIT Parents & Guardians of Teenagers Ages 13-16: Not happy with your current high school options? You know you’re ready for a NEW high school that will support your student not only through High School, but all the way to College Graduation!
Come Meet Your New School Leader and Staff, Tour
the School, and Find Out How to Enroll. Bring the Family. Refreshments will be provided. Two dates: High School Open House Thursday, August 21 Back to School Celebration Thursday, September 4 Both events will be 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Three Mottos of Schools for the Future Detroit . . . “Think Big!”
• “Real world” visits to colleges and workplaces. • ACT prep, financial aid, and future internship support. • We will be with you every step on your path to high school graduation, selecting and graduating from the best college for you.
“You Own It!”
• Learn to be an independent, college-ready, confident student. • Make decisions about your education and professional future. • We own it, too. With a strong adult presence in the school, our staff supports all students and their success.
24/7 Learning, includes Flexible Technology!
• Our teachers will support you as you learn at your own pace. • Work on coursework day and night from any mobile device. • Earn credit as fast as you can. • Develop success plans online with the help of our handpicked, highly qualified teachers. Each student will have a personal academic mentor to provide individual support.
Now Enrolling - Call Today!
313-769-4717
3550 John C. Lodge Freeway at MLK Blvd. - Just south of the Wayne State University Campus www.schools4futuredetroit.org
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A “new day” in Ecorse Public Schools
E
corse Public Schools is under the leadership of a new superintendent, Thomas E. Parker. An educator for 13 years, Parker is committed to excellence for the district. In his first year at Ecorse Public Schools, Parker reduced the district’s deficit by 60% while also significantly improving student achievement. Under his leadership several new initiatives were implemented during the 2013-2014 school year including, all elementary classrooms being fully integrated with Apple iPads, “technology and learning” free summer school programs using technology, and music concert and marching band programs for grades 3 to 8. The district has also forged a partnership between John Hopkins University and Ecorse Community High Schools. Other new initiatives in the district include parent resource centers within Bunche and Grandport Academies. Additionally, credit recovery virtual learning and computer labs will be implemented into the high school this year.
scored River Rouge in READING and MATH. Grades 3-7 outscored Charles Drew in READING and MATH. Grades 3-7 outscored Mark Twain in every grade in MATH and in 2 out of 6 grades in READING. Grades 3-7 outscored Lincoln Park Schools in almost every grade in MATH (tied 4th grade) and 3 grade levels in READING (tied 4th grade)
Also to Parker’s credit in his first year as superintendent is the district’s 2013-2014 MEAP results. “Our students were overachievers in Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies and science,” says Parker. Despite all of the challenges in the past, Ecorse Public Schools is a rising star; students at Ecorse surpassed surrounding schools and districts in all tested areas. Ecorse is excited about their high performance and amazing growth in every grade level and subjects.
During his tenure HWHS, he was a recipient of the GM Schools of Excellence Award, and also received the Safe and Supportive Schools Grant and the Michigan Department of Education School Improvement Grant. Prior to his three-year tenure in Harper Woods Schools, Mr. Parker was the founding Principal of Osborn College Preparatory Academy, a nationally recognized redesigned small school within the former Osborn High School in Detroit Public Schools.
Bunche Academy and Grandport Academy exceled in the 2013 MEAP by Leaps and Bounds, Grades 3-7 out-
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The Ecorse School district outscored Melvindale ABT in 5 out of 6 grades in READING and every grade in MATH. Grade 4 outscored River Rouge, Mark Twain and Drew Academy in WRITING. Grade 7 outscored all neighborhood schools in WRITING and Grade 6 outscored all neighborhood schools in SOCIAL STUDIES! Ecorse public Schools students are outscoring all of its competition. Parker previously served as the principal at Harper Woods High School, Harper Woods Middle School, and founded Harper Academy, a Second Chance alternative school for at risk students.
During his ten-year tenure at Detroit Public Schools he also served as assistant principal at Martin Luther King Jr. Sr. High School and Chad-
sey High School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education from Howard University, a Master of Educational Foundations and Policy from the University of Michigan, and is completing his ED.D. At Eastern Michigan University. Parker is a hands-on administrator who believes in leading by example and through the creation of professional learning communities. He understands the challenges facing students and schools today, as he believes that any child given the correct tools can succeed. Putting his beliefs into actions, he has formed educational communities to support student growth, secured over five million dollars in grant funding to improve local education, and has led his school district to improved academic achievement He has been featured in B.L.A.C Detroit Magazine as a GM School Superhero and has been a speaker for various engagements throughout the country. Thomas is originally from the small town of Tillatoba, Mississippi, and is a proud husband and father of one. If you would like to learn more about Ecorse Public Schools please visit them at www.ecorsek12.org. Ecorse Public Schools is a School of Choice and is currently enrolling new students.
The greater STEM vision comes to Detroit
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STEM Teacher and Student Support Services, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing student achievement gaps in the areas of communication, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (CSTEM) announced that it will be expanding its program into the Midwest and bringing the 2015 CSTEM Challenge Midwest Regional Competition to Detroit. Business and community leaders, including City Council member Saunteel Jenkins and DAPCEP president Jason Lee, joined Dr. Reagan Flowers, founder and president of CSTEM, at “The Greater STEM Vision for Detroit” breakfast on Tuesday where Dr. Flowers discussed how CSTEM and its curriculum is playing a key role in advancing America’s STEM mission and inspiring students to pursue cutting edge careers. “CSTEM’s expansion to the Midwest is providing opportunities for STEM stakeholders to leverage the strengths of existing efforts through partnering to cast an even larger net within communities to collectively work in this space,” said Flowers. “The endgame for us is increased
student achievement and teacher performance in STEM. STEM education helps level the playing field for all students when it is equitable and innovative.” CSTEM Challenge schools will be provided with curriculum, STEM tool-kits, workshops and a national competition experience. A total of 60 schools, from Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada, will be able to participate in the 2015 CSTEM Challenge Midwest Regional. To solve the CSTEM Challenges, students must engage in project-based learning activities that are aligned to national and state standards. The six challenges involve programming of wireless remote controlled robots, geoscience, creative writing, art, film, 3D printing, photography, a STEM quiz bowl and mobile tech. Registration for schools wishing to participate is currently open and runs through August 28, 2014. Space is still available for Pre-K – 12th grade teams. The program kicks off October 25 and culminates with students’ partic-
ipating in the 2015 CSTEM Challenge Midwest Regional Competition April 10-11 at Cobo Hall alongside the Shell Eco-marathon. As part of its program, CSTEM also focuses heavily on teacher training. “Our teachers are on the front lines with our students and should rest comfortably in knowing that they will be provided innovative training, tools, resources, and project-based learning curriculum that is required to successfully connect STEM content to related workforce industries, continually,” affirms Flowers. “CSTEM is designed for teachers and students to create a sustainable cradle to the college STEM pipeline.” Since its founding in 2002, CSTEM Teacher and Student Support Services, Inc. has positively impacted the lives of more than 50,000 students in grades P-12, and trained more than 500 teachers by helping them develop the skills needed to increase the talent pool in STEM related careers. For more information on the “The Greater STEM Vision for Detroit,” email logistics@cstem.org.
Do you know someone who needs to finish high school? Learn more about the Berkley Schools’ Tri-County Educational Center, a caring, safe, nurturing program, focused on relationships and getting students to graduation. • 16-19 year olds & adults welcome • Online, blended & traditional learning options • Safe environment built on relationships • Free breakfast & lunch for all students
Find us on Facebook! | www.berkleyschools.org/tcec | 248.423.5071
TCEC T R I-C O U N T Y E D U C AT I O N A L C E N T E R
TCEC is conveniently located in Southfield.
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Summer Fun to School Year Structure Tips for helping your child prepare for the new school year
By: Laura Hutchison, PsyD, LP, RPT/S, a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan practicing therapist
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s summer nearly over already? After a couple of months of often slower-paced days, later bedtimes and daytime hours full of fun in the sun, the beginning of the school year can be a tough adjustment for children. Here are a few tips to help make the transition back to school easier for your whole family: • Start transitioning back to your family’s school-year routines, including bedtime, morning and eating schedules. If your kids have gotten into the habit of staying up later during the summer, start getting them into bed 15 minutes earlier each night. This can help ease them back into the routine and help you and your kids get enough sleep and make it to school on time. • Talk about it.
Talking about returning to school can be helpful in preparing kids for the first day of school. Ask what excites them about the grade ahead, while also making sure to address any concerns they may have.
about first days in a new class, as well as attending school for the first time. • Make a countdown. Time can be a difficult concept for children to grasp; therefore countdowns can help reduce the daily “How many days until school starts?” question. Figure out how many days are left until the first day of school and then make a countdown. It can be as simple as marking off days on the calendar or making a countdown sticker board. • Get prepared. Many children enjoy purchasing school supplies and a couple of new outfits before the first school day. Make shopping a fun time for the kids to get excited about going back to school. You don’t need to go overboard, just allow children to be actively involved of this important preparation step. • Plan a back-to-school event.
• Read about it.
Be it a small party with neighborhood friends, a play date, a special family dinner or even a fun outing, celebrating the end of summer and the start of another school year can be a wonderful way to recognize the transition.
Many children enjoy reading books about school as September approaches. There are lots of great books for young kids
The start of the school year can be very difficult on children when it’s their very first
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• Coping with First Day Anxiety
time attending school, they’re transitioning to a new school or because the child just tends to be a little more anxious. Here are some ideas to help children (and their parents) who are nervous about the first day of school: • Schedule a school visit. Many schools are open to having children take a tour of the school or visit their new classroom. If a visit isn’t possible, check to see if photos of the school are available online. Helping the child get a feel of the location can ease some of the anxiety. • Meet the teacher. Once you know who your child’s teacher will be for the upcoming year, schedule a time for you and your child to meet the teacher. If meeting face-to-face isn’t an option, have your child write a letter, draw a picture, send an email or even Skype their teacher. Being able to start forming a relationship with the teacher can be very comforting to a nervous child. • Set up play dates. If you know any children that will be in the same class (or school) as your child, have the classmates over or plan an outing so your child will feel a special bond with a few peers. Knowing you’re not alone in a new place usually makes it easier to feel comfortable.
Parents need to recognize their own anxieties about letting go and sending their child off to school. Children are extremely susceptible to picking up their parents’ emotions. If you start to recognize that your own worries about your child attending school are creeping in, in addition to addressing any of your concerns with your child’s teacher, also consider getting involved by volunteering your time at the school during classroom hours or for after-school activities. Discovering new ways to be a part of your child’s development can help you feel connected. If you or your child’s anxiety about school starts getting in the way of having fun, getting adequate sleep or impacts eating habits, you may want to seek professional help from a qualified child psychologist in order to help you and your child address these concerns before they make a lasting impact. Based in Farmington Hills, Mich., Laura Hutchison, PsyD, LP, RPT/S, is a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan practicing therapist.
Improved Michigan eLibrary offers more Access to Information for kids
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t’s an unapologetic bookworm, a hit at trivia games, a great homework helper and its memory is lightning-fast.
The new and improved MeL – Michigan eLibrary is equipped with boundless knowledge and 24/7 stamina and – now available at www.mel.org, on a computer, tablet, or smartphone screen near you. Part of the Library of Michigan, the state’s official digital library got a complete user-friendly makeover to go with a souped-up “discovery” search engine. “MeL has a fantastic new look and feel, along with increased availability of its discover search service on the homepages of MeL and Michigana, which houses the state digital history collections,” said State Superintendent Mike Flanagan. “The MeL homepage search box provides access to MeLCat, the shared statewide catalog and interloan service for more than 425 libraries statewide.”
The homepage search box also accesses selected MeL subscription eResources or databases, Michigan Online Resources for Educators (M.O.R.E.) curricular content, and digital Michigan history projects. Using the search box on the Michigana homepage, http://mel.org/michigana, users may access digital history collections. Additionally, both Kids and Teens gateways sport new design features. At MeL Kids, new mascot, “Brookie,” and pal, “ReadIt,” introduce young MeL users to fun resources that can help them become engaged readers and successful in school. MeL Teens, meanwhile, helps teens with school assignments, preparing for college or career and encourages them to keep reading. “MeL Teens prepares Michigan teens for when life happens,” said State Librarian Randy Riley. “I think teens will agree
the site is simply cool.” Library of Michigan, and Midwest Collaborative for Library Services, partnered on the MeL redesign for more than a year. They worked with Innovative Interfaces Inc., EBSCO EDS and Strudell Studios. “This collaboration resulted in remarkable new functionality for MeL.” Riley said. “We’re now able to offer easy access to a wide array of eResources from the search box on the homepage. And, as always, the resources and information found in MeL are available at no cost to all Michigan residents.” MeL includes subscription eResources such as eBooks, full-text articles, test prep and vetted subject-specific websites. Access MeL from home, school, office or all Michigan public libraries.
Choice. Quality. Achievement. Grand Valley’s Charter Schools Office located at 163 Madison in downtown Detroit.
Grand Valley State University is committed to providing quality education for students. Whether it’s as Michigan’s fastest growing public university or as the authorizer of 64 charter schools serving over 34,000 K-12 students, Grand Valley is shaping the future with access to high quality education. In fact, Grand Valley State University authorizes 39 high-performing charter schools in southeast Michigan, and will open five additional charter schools in the Detroit area this fall. To learn more about the high quality of teaching and impressive level of academic achievement in our charter schools, visit www.gvsu.edu/cso or call (616) 331-2240.
New GVSU-authorized charter schools opening this fall in southeast Michigan: New Paradigm College Prep Pathways Global Leadership Academy Grand River Academy
Early Career Academy Canton Preparatory High School
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Detroit Public Schools continues forward momentum with new brand and and expanded programs for the upcoming school year “See It Believe It” Campaign urges community to visit schools and experience change first-hand
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s a result of a strong five-year Strategic Plan, put into place in April 2013, as well as the dedication and hard work of all Detroit Public Schools employees, the district has made solid progress in its ongoing efforts to transform itself and is on a positive trajectory for the future. An important part of these transformative efforts over the last year has been the reimagining of the District’s brand.
This new branding was developed with the assistance of Detroit-based creative agency Skidmore Studios using the “design thinking” process, which sought extensive input from key stakeholders, including parents (those with students in DPS, as well as those who no longer attend or never attended), principals and administrators, DPS unions and the Detroit community. It seeks to demonstrate the school system’s commitment to providing academic programs and initiatives that families desire, and making strategic decisions to attract and retain families. Ultimately, what the district came to understand is that the public needs to be reminded that amazing things are happening in every one of the District’s 97 schools each and every day; that programs are being offered at Detroit Public Schools that parents can’t get anywhere else; and if people take the time to visit/explore
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our schools and interact with the students, teachers and administrators in those schools, they will see proof of our progress and believe in the great things happening at DPS. New and expanded programs being offered this year, which are real examples of the ongoing change people will see when they visit DPS, include: • No school closings for the 2014-15 School Year: For the first time in six years, the budget does not call for the closure of any schools for the 2014-15 school year, which the district has come to understand can have an extremely adverse impact on enrollment, recruitment, retention and revenues; • A renewed commitment to working with all partners on ensuring safe and healthy environments for all students, including safe routes to and from school; • Creation of a new gifted and talented
school K-8 program; • Extension of successful dual immersion bilingual programs into a 9th grade collegiate prep setting; • Expansion of Career Academy and adult educational regional center programming; • Support for a K-12 International Baccalaureate program; and, • Art/Music expansion for elementary and middle schools. Across the district, DPS provides robust instrumental music, choral music, general music and visual arts instruction to help every student reach their full academic and creative potential. “In all cases, these new, expanded and restructured programs follow our detailed strategy to replicate successful academic programs, and to raise the bar academically throughout the city,” said Jack Martin, Emergency Manager of Detroit Public Schools. “We know that the only way we
will continue to stabilize and grow enrollment –which will bring with it long-term fiscal stability – is through academic excellence.” Some additional examples of the tangible progress being made across the district include an upward academic trajectory with DPS students having closed the gap with their statewide peers in all five subjects on the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) since 2011, DPS’ 2014 seniors earning nearly $138 million in scholarships and grants, and Renaissance High School being named the best high school in Detroit by U.S. News and World Report. Families interested in giving their children a chance at a remarkable education and one-of-a kind programs should visit one of Detroit Public Schools’ 97 neighborhood schools. To enroll your child, visit www.detroitk12.org/enroll or call (313) 240-4377.
The Detroit Public Schools Difference New Career Academy Program where students can earn a high school diploma, associate’s degree, trade skill certification and paid internship New K-8 sports leagues with basketball, flag football, baseball, track & field, soccer, golf and more New Customer Service 72-hour resolution guarantee New Parent University and other new/expanded parent programs at the district’s 8 Parent Resource Centers New Arts/Music enrichment at every elementary-middle school 21 Community Schools offering extended hours and a range of expanded services High school Medical Pathways
Over 200 free, high-quality PreK classrooms across the district Safe and secure buildings with a fully deputized police force Transportation, free healthy breakfast and lunch Eight different languages
More latchkey services $138 million in scholarships and grants for 2014 grads Scholar Athlete Programs through the Detroit Public School League Safe Routes to School initiative with DPSPD and community volunteers to ensure safe walking and bus routes each morning and afternoon
Join us! “Open Doors Day” August 23, 10am - 1pm K-8 Schools Open House (313) 240-4DPS (4377) detroitk12.org/enroll AUGUST 2014 • ACHIEVE
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Wayne County Community College DistriCt Where Learning Leads To A Better Life!
WCCCD’s Dual enrollment Benefits of Dual Enrollment:
☑ Get a head start by accruing college credit ☑ Earn college credit while attending high school ☑ Reduce: • Cost of college education • Early occupational skills training time • College completion time • Course duplication
☑ A bridge to college Affordable and quality education • Open-door admissions Flexible scheduling day, evening, and weekend classes, online
one Vision, FiVe Campuses
DOWNRIVER CAMPUS 21000 Northline Taylor, MI 48180
DOWNTOWN CAMPUS 1001 W. Fort St. Detroit, MI 48226
EASTERN CAMPUS UNIVERSITY CENTER 5901 Conner 19305 Vernier Rd. Detroit, MI 48213 Harper Woods, MI
NORTHWEST CAMPUS 8200 W. Outer Dr. Detroit, MI 48219
WESTERN CAMPUS 9555 Haggerty Belleville, MI 48111
48225
F o r m o r e i n F o r m at i o n C a l l 3 1 3 - 49 6 - 2 6 0 0 o r V i s i t W W W. WC C C D . e D u 20 ACHIEVE • AUGUST 2014