Instructionally Speaking…....

Area 7 Newsletter

200 East North Avenue – Room 313 410.396.8622 (Office)February 2006 410.685.4234 (FAX)

A Note from Dr. Kimberly Evans, AAO

Instructionally Speaking is an

Area 7 Newsletter aimed at focusing

on instruction as our primary goal for the

2005-06 school year. These publications are intended to be informational and highlight instructional successes and challenges. What works? What does not work? How do we revamp current practices? How do we strengthen our work as instructional leaders?

These are but a few of the questions we must constantly pose to ourselves and our staffs in order to move quickly toward our goals.

As the area instructional leader, it is my responsibility to support your efforts in managing instruction in your schools. This remains my focus and must be the focus administrators share with their staffs, parents, and community.

Our monthly foci are scaffolded. This means that, each month, a new area is identified and the previous months’ foci are continued. When area staff visits, they will observe progress in each area and should leave feedback regarding their observations. They will also provide feedback to me.

The last two months focused on environment and writing. As I visited schools, generally, there has been some improvement in the area of environment. Much work continues to be needed in this focus area. The inviting classroom includes a positive physical environment, student work samples, clear student expectations, goals and objectives, success charts, etc……That environment also refers to climate. Students should be highly engaged in meaningful activities that are aligned with BCPSS and MSDE goals and objectives as

well as particular and specific to individual student need. We have a distance to “travel” in this area and I know we will get there.

The focus for the Month of February is student work and assessment. How are we ensuring that students are asked to participate in rigorous activities and how do we assess their work! Last month’s writing foci must continue and must be

connected to the assessment piece for this month.

Rubrics are an important assessment tool and should be specific to individual expectations for each piece of student writing. There should be no general rubrics. Be

specific about what the writing expectations are for the writing assignment (i.e. poetry rubrics should not be used for a biographical piece of writing). Department members should determine grade level/content expectations around writings associated with units of study and come to consensus around expectations and assessment.

Students should be encouraged to write well, using appropriate grammar and mechanics. Vocabulary should be expanded by using the word wall and a thesaurus as strategies.

Objectives should be inclusive of goals in this area.

Remember each school is held accountable and responsible for raising student achievement. Please read and share this newsletter with your colleagues and staff at your faculty meetings.

Please continue to share your opinions about our direction, as we move toward common expectations and coherence. Your efforts are appreciated.

Administratively SpeakingKimberly Evans, Ed. D.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONReminder

The following documents are to be completed and submitted to the Area Office by Tuesday, February 28, 2006. If you have any questions, please contact Deanna Milton – Stanley.

Continue to review and complete the following: Disciplinary reports (#2, 6, 4, 7, 9, 14,

and report #8 ) Transfer Report 119 Update school -wide disciplinary log

(make sure that the CST receives a copy for each special education student suspended)

Discipline Monitoring Checklist Outcome #11 Verification Form Student Tracking Forms (Review

Circular #14) Exit Rectification/Verification Forms Transfer Report #119 Verification

Form SETS / SASI Discrepancy Reports

Our area had the highest number of interruptions of service for January. Most have done an excellent job remaining in compliance. Our compliance issues involved only two schools, but each school had many interruptions. Continue to do your best by remaining attached the process and having high accountability for responsible persons. Attendance is mandatory.

Deanna Milton-StanleyRemember our next area-wide team meeting is February 21, 2006 at Lake Clifton. Plan to remain until 3:30 p.m.

Please continue to send your documentation of SIT meetings, parent meetings, and community meetings to Sheryl in the Area Office.  The School Board frequently requests documentation that the Areas are complying with the school improvement policies, in compliance with the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation presented at the system-wide School Improvement meeting in October 2005. Laverne Sykes, Director of Parent and Community Involvement asks for documentation frequently.  I do not want anyone to be caught off guard (including myself), so please continue to send your documentation in monthly.

After visiting a few SIT meetings I have noticed that the focus of some meetings does not reflect the goals and objectives identified in the SIPS.  Remember, the purpose of the meetings is, as a team, to discuss areas around school improvement.  A major focus must then be the academic program as it relates to improving student achievement.  This must then be reflected on your agendas and in your minutes

Be on the lookout for the date of the second School Improvement Team Meeting for your SIT Chair and parent representative.

Dr. Staci Smith-Cannon

ALGEBRA HSA INITIATIVE

On January 19th, 2006, MSDE staff and Area 7

mathematics leadership teams met a Mergenthaler

High School to begin the hard work of supporting BCPSS efforts toward new approaches to teaching and learning Algebra.

3

Participants worked in groups on performance based activities that promote academic rigor in a thinking curriculum. Principals and their teams worked diligently to accomplish each task.

Our next meeting will be held on March 30th, 2006 at Mergenthaler. Remember that we begin at 8:00 a.m. Please be on time and encourage your teams to be on time.

MSDE TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVES

Web-based Curriculum Resources Workshop in Algebra and Government

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is offering curriculum workshops that provide support for teachers and other

instructional staff who implement the algebra/data analysis or

government on-line resources. These workshops are in response to requests from school systems for more intensive and supportive professional development. These two-day workshops will enable participants to:

Analyze data from performance measures related to the High School Assessment (HSA) and use that analysis for planning about how to use the online course materials.

Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the content and design of the online course.

Complete a curriculum map linking the online course materials to the system/school curriculum.

Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of how the online courses resources can be used to support student achievement.

Develop a plan for using the materials with an identified group of learners given the technology configuration at their setting.

Develop a plan to work with others within school settings who are also

interested in using the course resources.

Demonstrate the ability to use the Learning Management System tools.

ALGEBRA DATESMarch 9, 2006

May 3, 2006 at Mervo

GOVERNMENT DATESMarch 14, 2006

May 4, 2006 at Mervo

This effort is collaboration between BCPSS and MSDE. Each school will receive registration forms at our February 15, 2006 Principal’s meeting. Be sure to have a representative present. Principals will receive an overview at another time.

Dr. Kim Evans

HSA SUPPORT WORKSHOPS –AN AREA 7 INITIATIVE

I am in the process of locating funds to support the teacher tutor initiative. There was a great response. Thanks for your

support. Thus far 40 teachers have responded and 8 teacher tutors in biology/government. Hopefully, we can get started by March 2006.

The Reading course is also being planned. Twenty persons responded. We expect that class to begin by late March 2006. Thanks again for doing what is best for students. I am looking forward to teaching the class. If you have not signed up. There is still time to do so.

AREA WALKTHOUGHS

Area learning walks and evaluative walks are continuing.

4

Please plan to host a group of learners as a part of the Learning Walks. Learning Walks use IFL protocol and are not evaluative. Evaluative walks are walks completed by/with Dr. Evans and are for the purpose of assessing school progress. Please be available for either type of walk. Remember our foci. The most revised version of Learning Walks follows:

Dr. Kim Evans

LEARNING WALK SCHEDULE - 2006Time Date School Participants9:30 February 27 406 Connie Fantom,

Stephanie Triantos, Deanna Milton-Stanley, Denise Gordon, William Howard, Staci Smith-Cannon, Academic Dean #418

9:15 March 6 430 Connie Fantom, , Stephanie Triantos, Maisha Washington, Darline Lyles, Tisha Edwards, Deanna Milton-Stanley, Staci Smith-Cannon, Academic Dean #419

8:45 March 13 412 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Deanna Milton-Stanley Sharon Kanter Anthony Harold Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #422

8:15 March 20 181 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Jean Ragin Deanna Milton-Stanley Loretta Breese Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #429

9:15 March 27 426 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Maisha Washington Darline Lyles Tisha Edwards Deanna Milton-Stanley Staci Smith-Cannon Delores Berry Academic Dean #427

9:30 April 3 405 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Laura D’ Anna Deanna Milton-Stanley Marco Clark Helen Atkinson Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #435

8:15 April 10 401 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Jean Ragin Deanna

Time Date School ParticipantsMilton-Stanley Loretta Breese Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #423

8:45 April 17 435 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Karen Lawrence Karl Perry Deanna Milton-Stanley Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #428

9:30 April 24 424 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Laura D’ Anna Deanna Milton-Stanley Marco Clark Helen Atkinson Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #423

9:30 May 1 434 Connie Fantom Deanna Milton-Stanley Stephanie Triantos Tricia Rock Jeffery Robinson Isabelle Grant Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #450

8:45 May 8 431 Connie Fantom Stephanie Triantos Karen Lawrence Karl Perry Deanna Milton-Stanley Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #424

8:30 May 15 436 Connie Fantom Deanna Milton-Stanley Stephanie Triantos Christopher Maher John Davis Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #405

9:30 May 22 450 Connie Fantom Deanna Milton-Stanley Stephanie Triantos Tricia Rock Jeffery Robinson Isabelle Grant Staci Smith-Cannon Academic Dean #436

INNOVATIVE SCHOOLS ARE REASSIGNED

Our Innovation schools have been reassigned to Area 8. We will miss them and their administrators but wish them well.

5

Apologies are extended to Ms. Tricia Rock and Mrs. Karen Lawrence Principals of the Doris M. Johnson and

Heritage High Schools respectively. The New Business

Model will have implementation in the Fall of 2006 in Heritage High School and not Doris M. Johnson High School. Adrena Womack Department Chairperson at Heritage High School leads the teacher workgroup that is responsible for writing curriculum and addressing programmatic needs.

The Office of Career and Technology Education is involved in recreating CTE in the Baltimore City Public School System. Our accomplishments to date are bulleted.

August and September 2005 - CTE teachers received Professional Development training in infusing literacy into CTE programs.

September 2005 - Principals of major CTE programs were provided with the opportunity to direct federal funding needs and local funding to support CTE was increased.

September - December 2005 – Programmatic Advisory Councils were established for CISCO and Project Lead The Way.

October 2005 - The workfirst/ Start on Success planning meeting for special needs students was held.

November 2005 - The Carl T. Perkins budget was approved by the Maryland State Development of Education and a budget meeting was conducted for principals.

November 2005 – The Local Advisory Council convened for an evening meeting for the first time in two years.

November 2005 – An articulation meeting was held with the Community College of Baltimore County.

November – December 2005 – Professional Development training began for teachers of CISCO and Design Technology.

December 2005 – The second Local Advisory Council meeting featured Mary Etta Reedy from Cecil

County Public Schools who was instrumental in recreating CTE programming in the LEA.

December 2005 – an articulation meeting was held with the representatives of Baltimore City Community College in information technology.

December 2005 – an invitation to visit the Magna Institute of Technology was extended for all Principals who have CTE offerings in Manufacturing and Production Technologies.

January 2006 – a CTE presentation was provided to the Greater Baltimore Committee.

January 2006 - A representative from the Southern Regional Education Board/ High Schools That Work met with the four Principals and school leaders to further reform initiatives in Literacy Math and student achievement.

January 2006 - The new Board of School Commissioners approved an increase to the SREB/HSTW contract for heightened Literacy and Math Professional Development Opportunities for teachers of Career and Technology Education.

January 2006 – representatives from BCCC and BCPSS met to map out new initiatives to enhance tutorial community and professional development opportunities for the Edmondson-Westside High School stakeholders in academics and career and technology education programs.

February – May 2006 – Local Advisory Council meeting. Members will evaluate CTE Programs and Pathways.

June – Submission of 2006-2007 Perkins Budget.

The coordinator Mrs. Lisa Tarter of the Career and Technology education office is excited about accomplishments that that have been achieved since her appointment and reappointment as interim Coordinator of CTE. Kudos are extended to all who have supported my efforts since August 2005.

6

KUDOS KUDOS KUDOS to NOVEL On-Line Students - FOREST PARK #406

Richard Jones is an 18 year old student who entered Forest Park High School in school year O4-05. Previously he attended Randallstown High Owings Mill High and Catonsville Alternative High School. When Richard enrolled in Forest Park HighIt was a turning point for him. He realized that he was getting older and he needed to stop wasting his time and stop the foolishness. As an example of the foolishness that Richard is referring to is that he had only acquired ½ credits in 9th grade. Richard openly admits that his entire family has been instrumental in getting him to this point of resolve and determination to complete high school and move closer to accomplishing his dream of having his own business.

Richard has completed two on-line NOVEL courses: Physics and Algebra II. Richard finished these two courses very quickly by working in the lab after

school each day from 3:00 to 5:00. He would complete 3 to 4 submissions a day. Richard would use the double screen to help him get the correct answers for each submission. The double screen displays a portion of the reading selection and the submission questions. Richard used this method to go back to the text to reread and find the best answers for the questions.

Richard explained that the on-line NOVEL Program is a convenient way for students to earn their credits. Richard said “It’s just you focusing on your work and there are no distractions". Richard got a passing grade of 85 in both courses. Richard has two courses to take during the second semester day program: English IV and Spanish IV. His remaining school hours

will be spent in work study at the Post Office.

POINT-OF-INFORMATION

We have received numerous complaints in regards to invoices. Payments are not

being processed in a timely manner. There is a 30 day timeline in which we are to pay for merchandise received.

When necessary please remember to sign blue requisition slips and return to the Office of Procurement.

Due to the overwhelming demand of assistance with purchases, I can no longer receive walk-ins. Please contact me at 410.396.8612 or via e-mail at CharlesR.Davis2@baltimorecity.gov to make an appointment.

The E=MC2 partnership is sponsoring a trip to Atlanta GA from February 16th through

February 19th 2006.  The trip is for selected students in

Future Educators Association clubs and Teacher Academies in middle grades schools and high schools (Southside Academy and Western High School).  The trip will bring national exposure to our students regarding the world of teaching as a profession.  This is an all expenses paid trip for our students who will stay at the Hyatt Regency.  Our partners from Towson University and Baltimore City Community College will chaperone and guide the student experience.  This is a very worth while project that will expand student’s horizon’s regarding higher education and teaching as a profession.    

James M. Lindsay Jr.

7

SSD ‘Advance’ – the Student Support Deans gathered on February 3rd to reflect upon the earlier part of the school year by reviewing school data and evaluating resources and supports for students. In addition they will review and develop leadership norms and communication strategies which support their roles and responsibilities in their school.

CURRICULUM UPDATE

The units for third quarter English study are Theme-based Research in the 9th grade and Poetry in the 10th grade. The “Look-For’s” for both 9th and 10th grade include

independent reading curriculum implementation and word walls writing (as relates to the unit).

The 9th grade benchmark indicator for this quarter is on identifying and explaining the main argument through summarizing. The indicator is 1.E.4.a: Identify and explain the main idea or argument. Students will be working from a packet of articles and excerpts with illustrations including photographs charts and captions. Study will be focused on understanding text features and text structures in non-fiction writing. The unit builds to writing a theme-based research paper.

The 10th grade benchmark indicator for this quarter is

on theme again given how important understanding theme is for responding to literature and demonstrating proficiency on the HSA. The indicator is 3.A.6.a: Analyze main central ideas and universal themes. The summative assessment for the unit is a poetry portfolio which will include original writing and identifying published poems that meet established criteria.

The third quarter benchmarks will include SRs (selected response questions) in addition to BCRs (brief constructed responses). One session at the February 2-3 professional development provided teachers with tips for and practice on developing SRs.

REMINDER!!!!!The second conference with all

PSASA covered staff must be completed by February 28th. This includes principals, assistant principals and deans, and area

and central office Unit II staff.

If you have questions, please call Nancy Neilson at 396-8553.

Katryna Andruski a special educator and reading specialist at the Baltimore

Freedom Academy #423 recently

completed her training and certification in the Wilson Reading System which was implemented at the high school level in the fall of 2004. The certification process required taking multiple online tests passing five observations by a qualified Wilson instructor and leading a student through at least 60 distinct lesson plans in order to reach a pre-established “book level”. In addition to earning the nine

8

credits associated with the program she is now also certified to teach students one-on-one independently with this method. She is the second teacher to earn this certification in the BCPSS.

NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL #401

Jan 18th – Martin Luther King Celebration – Assembly on Dr. King’s life as portrayed in a documentary with unseen footage and photographs

Jan. 18th (6 p.m.) - Financial Aid Workshop will be held for parents and students

Feb 1st – 5 – 7 p.m. – PTA with guest speaker State Senator Verna Jones

Feb. 9th – Guidance Department program with guest speakers from 5th L who use rap poetry and spoken word with a motivational focus on education and success.

Feb. 10th – Free Classic African American Film Series – Gordon Parks – “The Learning Tree” – Community/Students invited at 5 p.m.

Feb. 11th – African Dance and African Drummers Performance – Saturday 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Community/Students Invited

Feb 14th – “We Love Northwestern Day” – Seniors Basketball Players Last Home Game

Feb. 17th – Free Classic African American Film Series – Lorraine Hansberry – “Raisin in the Sun” 5 p.m.

Feb. 24th – Student Dance “Hearts on Hold”

W.E.B. DUBOIS HIGH SCHOOL #418

The Maryland Business Roundtable 

The Maryland Business Roundtable h9osted Achievement Count Speakers on January 30th at W.E.B. Dubois. 

Additionally WMAR TV will cover two of the

presentations in one of our English classes.  There will be an interview with the teacher and a student.

College Bound Foundation The College Bound Foundation is active at W.E.B. DuBois High School with a new specialist; Ms. Jennifer Bauer.  Seniors have benefited from attending the NACAC experiencing visits from college representatives in class presentations and one-on-one college counseling for the Fall.  In the Spring the juniors and sophomores are the main benefactors of college and career fairs one day and overnight college tours and career and college counseling.  The guidance department and College Bound are working very closely to ensure the success of graduates from W.E.B. DuBois High School.

Guidance Department The Guidance Department and Morgan State University Education Talent Search Program accompanied students to the Kennedy Center for a performance of the play “Brave New World” on Monday January 30 2006.  This cultural activity will both stimulate and motivate students to pursue post-secondary education as well as enhance their verbal/reading skills. 

Liberal Arts and Environmental Science

 There is good news to report here at W.E.B. DuBois High School for the Liberal Arts and Environmental Sciences!  One of our students Brandon McCullum has been offered a chance to receive the AIMMS Excellence Scholarship.  This award is

based on grades and it also takes into account the

open-mindedness and spirit of the student. 

With the cooperation of the College Bound Foundation the Guidance Department

and the English

9

Department Mr. McCullum was able to complete the steps in the application process with just a little sweat no blood and no tears.  Ms. Jennifer Bauer Ms. Cynthia Chambers and Mr. Jeffrey Holland worked in collaboration with Mr. McCullum to get his essays and letters completed so that this opportunity would not slip by.  Mr. McCullum is a brilliant young man who wishes to engage in courses such as philosophy and literature and this scholarship will enable him to work toward his educational goals.  Mr. McCullum feels that by elevating himself he can in some way elevate the society in which he lives.  This is indeed a noble pursuit and we send all of our best wishes to Brandon McCullum in this and in all of his future endeavors. 

MESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement)

 W.E.B. DuBois has just engaged in

a major Engineering program called FIRST Robotics.  The program

is c0-sponsored by the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) in conjunction with the current Math Engineering and Science Achievement

Program.  We have partnered with our community sponsor

Morgan State University Electrical Engineering department.  We feel very honored and appreciative that NASA and MSU Electrical have selected us to compete in one of the most competitive robotic competitions in the country.  We have six weeks to build and meet the task requirements of competition. We are very appreciative of the support we have received from Omar Davis a structural engineer and professional engineers and software programmers from EA Engineering Science and Technology. 

Attendance Committee 

The Attendance Committee has sent a letter of gratitude and appreciation to

Baltimore City State’s Attorney Mrs. Patricia Jessamy for the inspirational message given at a High Tea to students with perfect attendance for the month of November and for the first quarter.  Our students with perfect attendance our shining stars as Principal Delores Berry calls them have accepted Mrs. Jessamy’s challenge to encourage a friend to have perfect attendance to get a good education and to become good productive citizens. On Friday January 27 2006 the committee recognized students with perfect attendance for the month of December and for the semester.  These shining stars will be awarded certificates as they enjoy a special lunch and a movie in our Senior Lounge.  

Honoring Our Own:   Black History Month Celebrations

 Students will reflect on the achievement of contemporary Maryland area Afro-Americans through a variety of

cultural activities.  Some of the presenters and honorees

will include members of the faculty and W.E.B. DuBois community leaders and activists.  Students will experience Black History through first-hand accounts of those who lived and made it. 

PRAXIS REVIEW CLASSES Where:  W.E.B. DuBois High SchoolWhen:  January 10 – March 2, 2006Time:    4:00 – 6:00 P.M.

Classes Offered:Monday:     Praxis I MathTuesday:    Praxis I ReadingThursday:  Praxis I WritingAlso:          Thursday:   Praxis II Special Education FOREST PARK HIGH SCHOOL #406

10

The Forest Park High School JROTC cadets participated in the following community service learning projects and/or community activities: On January 14th 11

Cadets Provided Color Guard and Honor Guard for the Fullwood Foundation Awards Program.  The Cadets were also present to honor the two soldiers that died in Iraq and Afghanistan.  The foundation provided breakfast for the students.

On January 16th five cadets provided Honor Guard and were primarily present to honor 3 former BCPSS soldiers that died in the War on Terror at the Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony at Bethel AME Church in Baltimore.

On January 6-7 9 cadets competed in the Manchester Raider competition at Manchester High School in Midlothian VA. One student earned the award for the fastest mile run and all the others earned a special ribbon for completing the adventure training competition.

On January 14th 15 cadets completed and earned the second place award for Unarmed Platoon Regulation Drill. At the Overlea Drill Competition at Overlea High School.

On January 21st at the Parkdale Drill Competition and Parkdale High School in Riverdale MD 18 cadets completed and earned 1st place Armed Regulation Platoon and 2nd Place Armed Inspection.

 Forest Park High School students were pictured in the fall 2005 edition of the Johns Hopkins “Engineer”. The students were shown unpacking materials purchased using a grant obtained through a program sponsored by the Whiting School’s Center for Educational Outreach. The materials included computers probes and a variety of scientific equipment. 

On Saturday January 21 at the statewide Baltimore Catholic Forensic League Debate Tournament #5 Forest Park Debate team got 5 more wins in Varsity.  The team’s total so far this year is 14 wins in BCFL competition which is the 4th highest in the state!

REGINALD F. LEWIS HIGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND LAW #419

NFTE Business Plan Winner

Michael Young a senior at Reginald F. Lewis High School of Business and Law was awarded third place and a cash award of $250 for his participation in the National Foundation

for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) City-wide Business Plan Competition. “Mike’s Computer Shop” was Michael Young’s creative masterpiece that captured the attention of judges. The event held January 6 2006, showcased the business talents of high school students that participate in year-long entrepreneurial training ultimately creating business plans. The finalist prepared PowerPoint presentations that detailed their plans with the assistance of local entrepreneurs and business leaders who serve as mentors. Michael’s school-based mentor is Stephanie Rowe a business teacher at Reginald F. Lewis.

The event was hosted by M&T Bank a major supporter of NFTE-Baltimore. NFTE a non-profit foundation that teaches low income students an entrepreneurship curriculum hosts programs in 11 middle and high schools in Baltimore City.

Poetry Champion

Students in Ms. Inez Hall’s English I classes look forward to Fridays when she hosts “Spoken

Word/Open Mic” at the end of the day. Students gather

attentively to hear the expressive thoughts of their peers. Encouraging this creativity bred the

11

talents of an award winning poet James Player. James was the recipient of Poetry.com and the International Library of Poetry’s award for outstanding achievement. His poem entitled “Imagine” received the Editor’s Choice Award. The poem will also be featured in a deluxe hardbound publication. The editors described James’ poem as being ‘wonderfully expressive’.

1 st Annual Reginald F. Lewis Day

In celebration of the life of its namesake Reginald F. Lewis High School of Business and Law celebrated the accomplishments of distinction and honor roll students with a motivational program to not only recognize academic achievement by to remind scholars of their academic role model. Students were reminded our school’s motto the profound words of Reginald F. Lewis; “Keep going…no matter what”.

Each honoree participated in a program that included a viewing of the televised American Legacy video hosted by actor/community activist Tim Reid. The video was a

synopsis of the life Reginald F. Lewis that showcased from his humble beginnings in Baltimore City to his multi-millionaire entrepreneurial endeavors. Students received honor roll certificates and enjoyed popcorn and drinks as they learned of the possibilities and rewards of high academic achievement. The event was spearheaded by the Principal Jean Ragin and coordinated by teacher Inez Hall.

DR. SAMUEL L. BANKS #420

Congratulations to Mr. Michael Jarman for being awarded the Environment Education and Restoration

Grant of the Chesapeake Bay

Trust. Mr. Jarman received a grant in the amount of $3690.00 for the Environmental Science Program at Samuel L. Banks High School. Thank you Mr. Jarman You’re the BEST!

The Debate Team under the leadership of advisor Dana Hunter won 5th place at the most recent (January 28) Baltimore tournament. Over 30 schools participated. We are so proud of the Mighty Mouths Influencing through constructive argument.

Congratulations to Dana Hunter our fantastic French teacher for earning a grant the Children’s Foreign Language Book Guild. This grant included a 50 Francophone book donation and a five day training session in Haiti! Madame Hunter as she is known by her students will use the new classroom library to supplement her teaching of French II and III. Her experience in Haiti was video recorded and has been shared with all of her pupils.

Finally Kudos’ to Brad Fields geometry teacher who has almost single-handedly secured the donation of over 250 PC’s from various business partners. Among the largest donors were Citi Corp The National Security Agency and NASA. Mr. Fields and John McFall have been instrumental and ensuring that these computers are installed in classrooms and in our new library computer lab.

THURGOOD MARSHALL HIGH #424

Thurgood Marshall High School hosted the General Assembly Meeting on January 26 2006. Dr. Bonnie Copeland and Dr. Evans were special guest in attendance.

Thurgood Marshall High School began an initiative called Career Exploration in Science (CES) designed to stimulate students’ interest in science and science-related careers. We invite local scientists

12

or individuals currently working in scientific careers to lead 9th and 10th grade students in a hands-on workshop related to their career.On Thursday January 25th Mrs. Avis Ransom from Morgan State University was our first guest. She helped the students realize the connection between Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students were able to observe how common household items can be used to measure pH and how completing a circuit can stimulate electron movement thereby generating electricity.Mrs. Ransom encouraged students to continue studying math and science. She illustrated that limiting math courses can limit their ability to study higher level STEM courses in college.

CES will continue promoting science careers every month by bringing in local scientists. In February we welcome Ms. Shawna Scott a forensic studies

major from the University of Baltimore. She will speak to students about the Forensics Studies Program and potential careers. She will also talk about crime scene investigation; evidence gathering and she will facilitate a fingerprinting activity.

Thurgood Marshall High School began a new initiative “Men of Thurgood” who are going to adopt and mentor the young men in the building. The “Men of Thurgood” are modeling positive attitudes for the young men and dressing for success. In addition they volunteered to man the doors monitor hallways in order to build a supportive school culture.

HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL #425

Star Scholar-Athletes Featured in Sun

Two Heritage students were featured in The Sun’s Snapshots section

featuring top student athletes. They were

Daryl Eberhart captain of the boys’ basketball team and Taiye Roane a four-year varsity player in several sports. Both athletes carry B averages in their classes. The piece featured a profile and photograph of each student. Kudos to both.

Mentoring Group Formed at Heritage

Reverend Lee formerly a hall monitor and a good deal more at Heritage will be running a mentoring program for a randomly selected group of fifty male students. He will be tracking the progress of these students through all four years of high school and possibly beyond. Lee will be available to help at all times and will be available for consultations three days a week. He aims to give the young men in his group much-needed guidance to complete high school and to stay focused on their goals.

Five Students Gain Early Admission to BCCC

Heritage seniors Shantae Crippen Taronda Alston Parrish Williams Jr. Brianna Auguste and Dawn Campbell have gained early admission to Baltimore City Community

College and will be attending English classes at the downtown campus while working a modified schedule at the Lake building.

Taking the Curriculum to the Streets

13

Four Heritage science/health teachers (Mr. Sickels Mr. Wainwright Ms. Coleman and Mr. Rhue) are participating in EnviroHealth

Connections a program sponsored by a partnership between Maryland Public Television and The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The program aims to help teachers develop lessons that explore environmental health issues in the students’ real communities. It provides teachers with training and technological resources as well as providing access for students and teachers to the resources and expertise of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

All four teachers attended a two-day conference on the January 20th and 21st and will work on these issues for the remainder of this school year with opportunities to visit and learn from Johns Hopkins and a Summer Colloquium. Students will benefit not only from the professional development afforded their teachers but also from opportunities for field trips to laboratories and lectures on Johns Hopkins campus and at Maryland Public Television.

“You’re Hired!”

Congratulations to Heritage Junior Sheena Burrows who

competed in a city-wide entrepreneurship competition on

Friday January 6th. Sheena placed fourth in the competition to create an effective Business Plan which was

judged by local business persons. Sheena’s business was called “Beads ‘n Gold.” She received a certificate and $100 towards the start up of her business.

The National Foundation for Teaching and Entrepreneurship also sponsored a trip to New York for all the students in NFTE. The students visited the wholesale district and bought goods with starting capital of $50. On their return the students set up a

bazaar to sell the goods they had purchased. Students were able to develop their negotiating and marketing skills through this experience besides having a good deal of fun. Watch out the Donald!

THE AUGUSTA FELLS SAVAGE INSTITUTE OF VISUAL ARTSSCHOOL #430

Augusta Fells Savage (1882 - 1962)

The school formerly known as the Arts Industry Academy (#430) has a new name.  We are in our second year of existence as a breakout of the

Southwestern High School with a focus on visual art.  We are now known as The Augusta Fells Savage Institute of Visual Arts.  Augusta Fells Savage was a sculptor portrait artist and poet.  She was a pioneer recognized for breaking down many of the long-standing racial barriers of the art world.  She was recognized in the art community as an artist and a teacher. Ms. Savage is known for her portrait busts of famous individuals.  We are indeed honored to commemorate the life and work of this trailblazer of the arts and education in the naming of our school. HOMELAND SECURITY ACADEMY #434

LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Fifty outstanding student leaders (Eagles) were chosen to attend an important Homeland Security Academy leadership conference January 13-15, 2006 at the Embassy Suite Hotel, in Hunt Valley, MD. These students were selected because they demonstrated the desire and ability to be exceptional leaders. During the weekend the Peacemakers who are the cultural leaders of the school, the Peer Teachers who are the academic student leaders of the school and the Student Government elected officials, gathered information, acquired skills and made decisions that formulated principles,

14

policies and regulations that will improve the academic and cultural tone of Homeland Security Academy.

The conference began January 13 at 7:00pm.

General Session I, which included two workshops: “Stories for Urban Youth”

presented by Bunjo Butler, Storyteller and head librarian/manager of the Walbrook Pratt Public Library

“Leadership – Who am I” presented by Dr. Deborah Wood, Executive Director and Founder of Chesapeake Children’s Museum, educator and psychologist.

January 14 Saturday Morning Session began with: General Session II - “Making

the Best of Every Day” (Principles, Rules & Regulations, Consequences, Daily Routines, Goals)

Students learned the school principles, rules and regulation, and decisions about the consequences for not following the rules, daily routines and determined student leadership and school-wide goals.

The afternoon of the second day of the conference was spent in concurrent workshops that focused on particular skills and information based on the leadership category the student was assigned.

Peacemakers participated in two workshops: “Conflict Resolution” workshop

presented by Sandra Wright Short, LaDonna Kimbal BCPS staff - Safe

school specialist “Mock Court” presented by Mary

Radcliffe, academic Dean of Homeland Security Academy

Peer Teachers participated in two workshops:

“Multiple Intelligences and Quantum Teaching Approach” presented by Dr. Deborah Wood and Ms. Maisha L. Washington

“Academic Coaching and the Academic Explosion Game”

presented by Ms. Maisha L. Washington.

Student Government Leaders participated in two workshops:

“Planning Fundraisers” workshop presented by Mary Radcliffe

“Writing Our Constitution” presented by Ms Deborah Bean-Walker, BCPS Social Studies teacher.

The final workshop on January 14 was: General Session III “Team and

Motivation is the Way to Go” presented by William Flip Clay an educator/ counselor Prince George County Public Schools who promotes making the correct choices for a productive future using hip hop music and rhyme/rap.

Saturday evening was spent swimming, lifting weights, learning the African tradition

of Stepping and Dancing. The last day of the Leadership Conference, Sunday January 15

was a time for reflection, a discussion of the student leadership’s charge and an evaluation of the weekend. The weekend was very successful. Students were exposed to a beautiful environment and the staff was continuously complimented on the students’ professional behavior, by hotel staff, guest and teachers from Baltimore County Public Schools who were there for their own conference. Homeland Security Academy Students lived up to our school creed.

Homeland Security Creed

We examine ourselves everyday to discern,

if we’re humble and hungry enough to learn. We check our attitudes at the front door, because we come to school eager

and ready to explore. Drugs don’t faze us. We’ve risen above it. We get high on

academics, that’s right, we love it. Failure is not an option with this system we’ve

found.

“Each one - teach one.” That’s how we get down. Integrity, discipline and respect

are the foundation.

15

Homeland Security Academy is a model for the nation.

Robotics Competition Update

Homeland Security Academy was awarded an additional $6850 in

grant money $1250 from Sylvan $ 3000 from Maryland Space Grant

Consortium $2500 from First and $100 gift certificate to Home Depot.

FREDERICK DOUGLASS HIGH SCHOOL #450 1. Katrina Scott teacher

in the Ninth Grade Academy received a $700 MINT grant from the Maryland State Department of Education. The grant was awarded to implement her project Unit: Life Narratives—the Life and Accomplishments of Frederick Douglass. Ms. Scott will participate in an honors luncheon celebration on February 14 2006 in Annapolis Maryland.  

2. Mr. Jerome Guest teacher in the Business department was honored at the Fullwood Foundation Breakfast on Saturday January 14 2006.  

3. Mr. Najib Jamal Classical Language teacher was awarded a Fellowship from the Open Society Institute. The Fellowship will enable him to implement a pilot program that focuses on the integration of community projects in the school setting. Mr. Jamal will advise selected students in internship positions focusing on the management and establishment of a non-profit organization designed to stimulate revitalization in the community (Youth Organizing Urban Revitalization Systems).  

4. Preparation for the January High School Assessments. The Instructional Support Team (Academic Dean-Instruction Lead Content Teachers and Blum Mentor) designed and implemented the High Scoring Achievers Program. The program included an orientation meeting holiday practice packets computerized practice direct instruction and a PEP Rally. A Test Blitz on Saturday January 7 2006 allowed students a final opportunity to prepare for the tests. Students attended workshops reviewed practice tests and received a variety of incentives for participation.

Why Students Drop Out: A Student’s Perspective

By: Mike Shade of the Liberal Arts Academy

The statistics says that there are more kids that are dropping out of school in this generation than any previous generation. Most people

think there are no motives for children

refusing to come to school or choosing to leave early (cutting). However there really are serious reasons for the rebellious behavior towards education.Most children drop who out of high school are encouraged to believe that fast money is the only way to make money and anyway slower isn’t beneficial. Most if not all children that decide not to graduate have low-income parents that can’t meet the child’s immediate needs such as clothing shoes spending money

16

sometimes meals etc. Most children have the mindset that school isn’t going to fill their stomachs or get them the new Jordon sneakers. So they begin to do anything to make ends meet as quickly as possible including quitting school for work. In my opinion a solution to the problem would be to include rewards for both short-term and long-term goals. For example giving $100.00 to everyone that makes the honor roll. Basically our system of educating students from urban areas needs to up graded into something more relevant to our ever-changing society.

Black History MonthTribute to Dr. Martin Luther

King, Jr.(1929-1968)

Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968), American clergyman and Nobel Prize winner, one of the principal leaders of the American civil rights movement and a prominent advocate of

nonviolent protest. King’s challenges to segregation and racial discrimination in the 1950s and 1960s helped convince many white Americans to support the cause of civil rights in the United States. After his assassination in 1968, King became a symbol of protest in the struggle for racial justice.

Martin Luther King, Jr., was born in Atlanta, Georgia, the eldest son of Martin Luther King, Sr., a Baptist minister, and Alberta Williams King. His father served as pastor of a large Atlanta church, Ebenezer Baptist, which had been founded by Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, maternal grandfather. King, Jr., was ordained as a Baptist minister at age 18.

King attended local segregated public schools, where he excelled. He entered nearby Morehouse College at age 15 and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1948. After graduating with honors from Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania in 1951, he went to Boston University where he earned a doctoral degree in systematic theology in 1955.

King’s public-speaking abilities—which would become renowned as his stature grew in the civil rights movement—developed slowly during his collegiate years. He won a second-place prize in a speech contest while an undergraduate at Morehouse, but received Cs in two public-speaking courses in his first year at Crozer. By the end of his third year at Crozer, however, professors were praising King for the powerful impression he made in public speeches and discussions.

Black History MonthTribute to Ethel Waters

(1896-1977)

Ethel Waters grew up in Chester Pennsylvania. By the age of eight she had a job as a domestic worker and was married by the age of 13. She first worked on

the stage at the Lincoln Theatre in Baltimore Maryland where she sang "St. Louis Blues." She then toured the South billed as "Sweet Mama Stringbean" with carnivals and tent and vaudeville shows.

Her first New York appearance was a one-week engagement at the Lincoln Theatre. She also played in Hello 1919! at the Lafayette Theatre in Harlem. Her first recordings were "The New York Glide" and "At the New Jump Steady Ball" on Cardinal Records in 1919. Then in 1921 she was hired by Black Swan Records to record "Down Home Blues" and "Oh Daddy" which became a best seller. She went on a promotional tour in the South with Fletcher Henderson and the Black Swan Troubadours. After this Waters continued

17

to play the vaudeville circuit and worked in several theatrical revues. She turned down an offer to go to Paris with Revue Negre which gave Josephine Baker her big break in show business. She appeared on Broadway for the first time in 1927 in Africana and played Europe in 1930.

Irving Berlin wrote four songs for her for his Broadway show As Thousands Cheer. This show toured the south where Waters received star billing with the white players.

Waters then a star gave a recital at Carnegie Hall in 1938 and began to do straight dramatic work in 1939 in Mamba's Daughters. She made numerous recordings on labels such as Black Swan Columbia and Paramount. Her movie credits include Cabin in the Sky (1942) Pinky (1949) and A Member of the Wedding (1952). Her autobiographies are His Eye is on the Sparrow (1951) and To Me It's Wonderful (1972).

ATTENDANCE90-94% 85-90%

School

% Rate School

% Rate

181 93.2 418 86.3

434 91.8

SUSPENSION RATES BELOW 1%

181 424401 426405 429419 430420 434

GradePSAT SAT

Oct ‘04

Oct ‘05

May ‘04

May

‘05

Nov

‘04

Nov

‘05<8 108 4 109 1,5

9592

31

10 4,878

3,922

6 10 1

11 3,861

2,187

186 1,490

29 35

12 102

20 99 73 560

1,567

Other 1 1No

Response

41 39 1 33 5 79

No Longer in HS

4 4 4 1

Congratulations on supporting this effort.

Thanks Dean!

Have content area teacher’s team teach/plan. Use assessments to create

differentiated skill, based groups. Teachers may team to

address student need. It works!

CALL FOR YOUR FEEDBACK

What else would you like to see incorporated into Instructionally

18

Speaking? Please submit suggestions to Sheryl Johnson secretary.

Information for the March Newsletter is due in the Area Office by February 23 2006. Please send electronically to SJohnson07@bcps.k12.md.us.

REMINDERAll Newsletter information is due to

the Office of Neighborhood and Innovation High Schools – Area 7 by

the 23rd of each month.

INSIDE THIS ISSUENote from Dr. Kimberly Evans AAO 1Special Education 2School Improvement 2MSDE Support 3Career and Technology Education 5Twilight News 6Budget Information 6E=MC2 6Student Support 7Curriculum Update 7Wilson Reading 7School News 8Noteworthy Youth Voices 15Black History Month Tribute 16Kudos 17Try This 17

19