student experience catalog - connections academy€¦ · under the student’s blue icon. there the...
TRANSCRIPT
Connections Education
Student
Experience
Catalog
2016–2017 School Year
Student Experience
Offerings
24 full time clubs
3 Talent Networkprograms
12 special events
1 online yearbook
Latest revision: Tuesday, September 06, 2016
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Welcome!
Connections Education is committed to offering our students the
widest possible range of virtual extracurricular opportunities
throughout the school year. This includes Clubs and Activities, the
Talent Networks, and the Yearbook. We have something to spark
every student’s interest at all grade levels. Participation in each of
these Student Experience opportunities enhances student
socialization as well as improves academic achievement and
school retention rates. All Student Experience extracurricular
activities are non-credit and have no impact on student grades.
Students are able to customize the way in which they participate
in Student Experience offerings. They can:
participate in LiveLesson sessions
engage in Message Board discussions
converse with fellow club members via WebMail
messages
listen to LiveLesson recordings posted in the Virtual
Library
create and submit work to be shared in LiveLesson
sessions, on Message Boards, or in the weekly E–News
upload content into the yearbook
respond to polls and surveys in the yearbook
hear from experts in particular fields
collaborate with peers
The Talent Networks are open to all full-time enrolled students in
CA, NEXUS Academy, iNaCA, and certain CL schools. Students
wanting to participate in the Talent Networks must be in grades
6−12 and apply to the program.
Student Experience
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
Clubs and Activities Sign Up page 4
Art Club and Arts and Crafts Club pages 6 & 7
Book and Digital Storytelling Club and
Brainteasers Club pages 8 & 9
Broadcast and Theater Arts Club and Career Club pages 10 & 11
Chess Club and College Planning Club pages 12 & 13
Debate Club and First Generation Club pages 14 & 15
Gaming and Technology Club and Math Club I pages 16 & 17
Math Club II and Movie Club pages 18 & 19
Music Club and Pen Pals pages 20 & 21
Pens and Lens and Poetry Corner pages 22 &23
Quiz Bowl and Robotics Club pages 24 & 25
Science Club and Science in the Kitchen pages 26 & 27
Sports Club and The Monitor Newspaper pages 28 & 29
Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance pages 30 & 31
Talent Networks Overview pages 32 &33
Talent Networks Application pages 34 & 35
Science and Technology Talent Network pages 36 & 37
Sports Talent Network pages 38 & 39
Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network pages 40 & 41
Special Events list, Cards for Kids,
and DimensionU Tournaments pages 42 & 43
Fashion Design Challenge, Music Contest,
Photography Contest, and Sky Gazers pages 44 & 45
Stellar Spellers, Virtual Art Gallery, Virtual BioBlitz,
and Virtual Talent Show pages 46 & 47
Yearbook Art Contest and Special Events List pages 48 & 49
Yearbook and questions for the Clubs and
Activities Coordinator pages 50 &51
Page 3
How Do I Sign Up for Clubs and Activities?
To sign up for any of the virtual clubs and activities we offer,
Caretakers should log into Connexus® and find the Clubs and
Activities Sign-Up Sheet under the student’s blue icon. This
form will not work for Florida high school students. GLCA stu-
dents must use the form labeled GLCA. Once in the Sign-Up
Sheet, please select the link at the top of the page to view the
Getting Started with Clubs and Activities presentation. The
Caretaker should then scroll down the form and check one of
the consent buttons. You must have completed the Media
Consent and Release Form in order for this Clubs and Activities
Sign-up Data View to save your requests for club enrollment. If
you have not completed this form, the Caretaker should log
into Connexus and find the Media Consent and Release Form
under the student’s blue icon. There the Caretaker can
give or revoke consent for your student’s work to be shared in
all forms of media for inclusion in Connections’ internal and ex-
ternal publications and promotional materials, including, but
not limited to, corporate, non-corporate and internet commu-
nications, such as social media, and video and print media, for
display in its offices, on its Website and in its advertising, pro-
motion or any other related purpose whatsoever and in any
format, including advertising, trade or commercial purposes
throughout the world and in perpetuity.
Page 4
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
If you wish to alter your consent status, please send a WebMail
message to Jaime Waggoner, Manager of Student Experi-
ence. Please include the following in your WebMail message:
Student’s name and ID
Student’s grade and location (state)
Caretaker’s name and ID
Desire to grant or remove consent to share work
If one of the consent buttons is NOT selected and Save and
Finish is selected, then all checked club choices will be
cleared and the form must be completed again. Once a con-
sent button has been selected, you should check the desired
clubs, making sure to select Save and Finish so the placement
team will see your choices. Please note that it can take up to
five days to place a student in a club.
Clubs and Activities:
Art Club Math Club II
Arts and Crafts Club The Monitor Newspaper
Book and Digital Storytelling Club Movie Club
Brainteasers Club Music Club
Broadcast &Theater Arts Club Pen Pals
Career Club Pens and Lens Magazine
Chess Club Poetry Corner
College Planning Club Quiz Bowl Club
Debate Club Robotics Club
First Generation Club Science Club
Gaming and Technology Club Science in the Kitchen
Math Club I Sports Club
Page 5
Club Description: Art Club is designed to spark a student's creativity
by exploring two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, photog-
raphy, and graphic design. Students are exposed to techniques and
styles associated with each medium and have the opportunity to
create original designs and artwork. In the weekly LiveLesson ses-
sions, students share their artwork with peers, learn about appropri-
ate critique guidelines, and provide feedback to other club mem-
bers.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Tuesdays and Fridays 3–4 p.m. (ET)
Art Club FAQ
Learn more about Art Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 6
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Arts and Crafts is a fun way for students to learn
how to turn household objects into works of art. The optional activi-
ties are easy, educational, and thought-provoking. Crafts are pre-
sented in themes so that students learn background information be-
fore constructing their original products. Upon completion of an ac-
tivity, students are encouraged to share their artwork with friends,
family, and others during the monthly LiveLesson sessions, posting im-
ages of work to the club Message Board, or by submitting pictures
which will then be shared in the E–News once a month.
Grade Level: K–8
LiveLesson® session days and times:
First and third Wednesdays of each month from 1–2 p.m. (ET).
Arts and Crafts Club FAQ
Learn more about Arts and Crafts Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 7
Club Description: Book and Digital Storytelling Club is open to stu-
dents in all grade levels. The Book and Digital Storytelling Club meets
monthly for LiveLesson sessions. During one monthly meeting ele-
mentary students discuss books around the designated theme as
well as sharing their personal writing or books they have enjoyed.
Another monthly meeting follows the same format for middle and
high school students. The timeline for reading and topics to be dis-
cussed are posted in the Virtual Library and on the club Message
Board. In addition to book discussions, sessions also include opportu-
nities for students to collaborate and work on their writing skills.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Tuesdays from 2–3 p.m. (ET)
ELEM: second Tuesday of the month
MS/HS: fourth Tuesday of the month
Book and Digital Storytelling Club FAQ
Learn more about Book and Digital Storytelling Club in the Virtual Li-brary.
Page 8
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Brainteasers Club provide students the opportunity
to solve a variety of puzzles and problems. Weekly newsletters con-
taining brainteasers such as anagrams, riddles, crack the code, and
logic grids are sent to all club members. In addition, students are en-
couraged to create their own brainteasers to share on the club Mes-
sage Board and in student-made publications.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
There are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.
Brainteasers Club FAQ
Learn more about Brainteasers Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 9
Club Description: Broadcast and Theater Arts Club students learn
about choreography, set design, and tech crew, for on- and off-
Broadway productions. Working both individually and collaborative-
ly, students are encouraged to write their own plays and musical
scores. Students also learn about the history and trends in broadcast
media, exploring the print, audio, and video mediums. LiveLesson
sessions provide opportunities for students to share their theatrical
talents as well as segments similar to those on television news maga-
zines.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
first and third Thursdays 2:00–3:00 p.m. (ET)
Broadcast and Theater Arts Club FAQ
Learn more about Broadcast and Theater Arts Club in the Virtual Li-
brary.
Page 10
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: This club encourages middle and high school stu-
dents to learn about potential careers and explore fields that interest
them. Members identify and develop skills that will help them to be
successful in middle school, high school, college, and professionally.
The club enables middle school students to enter high school with
more direction in mind, making them more likely to embrace and
succeed in a high school program that prepares them for pursuing
their career interests. It will allow high school students to better focus
on their goals after high school, including applying to appropriate
colleges or applying for jobs which align with their interests and
goals.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Tuesdays 2–3 p.m. (ET) or Wednesdays 3–4 p.m. (ET)
MS: first and third Tuesdays of the month
HS: second and fourth Wednesdays of the month
Career Club FAQ
Learn more about Career Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 11
Introduction to Chess is for students who are beginners and are
ready to enter the world of chess in eight 30-minute lessons. Club
members learn, socialize, and play in an atmosphere of friendly
competition. After completing an online tutorial, students have 24/7
access to our exclusive Connections Education gaming site where
they can request to play against competitors of the same skill level,
and the games begin. In the spring, all Chess Club members are en-
couraged to compete in the national Match Madness tournament.
Advanced Chess allows students to increase their skill in the game of
chess as students focus more on strategy than the workings of the
game. After completing several required lessons, students are able
to compete 24/7 with another member using our exclusive Connec-
tions Education gaming site. In the spring, all Chess Club members
are encouraged to compete in the national Match Madness tour-
nament at the end of the school year. The winner of the Advanced
bracket plays a game against a UMBC Chess Grandmaster in a rec-
orded LiveLesson session.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Thursday 2–3 (ET) or Friday 2–3 (ET)
Introductory: first Thursday of the month
Advanced: third Friday of the month
Chess Club FAQ
Learn more about Chess Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 12
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: College Planning Club is designed for ninth through
twelfth grade students who are considering college. Members are
guided through the college preparation and admissions process in-
cluding: college planning, building and producing a resume, identi-
fying career interests and potential majors, researching colleges,
completing applications, and identifying financial aid and scholar-
ship opportunities. Members develop a portfolio that focuses on ele-
ments sought by college admissions committees.
Grade Level: 9–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Wednesdays 2-3 p.m. (ET); first and third Wednesdays of the month
College Planning Club FAQ
Learn more about College Planning Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 13
Club Description: Members learn internationally-recognized debate
procedures and put them into practice during weekly LiveLesson
sessions. Participation involves learning the art of public speaking
and critical thinking while working as collaborative teams. Research,
reasoning, and understanding opposing perspectives form the foun-
dation for weekly moderated debates.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
First Wednesday of the month from 1:00–3:00 p.m. (ET)
Debate Club FAQ
Learn more about Debate Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 14
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: First-Generation Club is for students in grades 9-12
who aspire to be the first in their families to graduate from college.
This club provides mentoring, advice, and personal development
activities to help members understand, plan, and prepare for the
college application and admissions process. LiveLesson sessions and
the club Message Board support and encourage discussion. Mem-
bers develop a portfolio that includes elements sought by college
admissions committees.
Grade Level: 9–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Wednesdays 2-3 p.m. (ET); second and fourth Wednesdays of the
month
First Generation Club FAQ
Learn more about First Generation Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 15
Club Description: Gaming and Computer Technology Club is for stu-
dents who have an affinity for computers and gaming as they ex-
plore and discuss gaming strategies, computer security, gaming and
technology careers, and new product reviews. Individual and col-
laborative projects may include designing applications and games
for others to enjoy, and creating personal websites.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Mondays 3–4 p.m. (ET)
MS: first and third Mondays of the month
HS: second and fourth Mondays of the month
Gaming and Technology Club FAQ
Learn more about Gaming and Technology Club in the Virtual Li-brary.
Page 16
Club Description: Members take part in a math competition by play-
ing interactive games on the First in Math® website. The online play
reinforces a wide range of skills, from simple addition to solving for x-
and y-variables. Students work at their own pace, and earn points as
they master various concepts and practice through test-prep exer-
cises geared to appropriate grade levels. Monthly LiveLesson ses-
sions allow for students to collaboratively engage in mathematical
activities.
Grade Level: First in Math: K–8
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Thursdays 1–2 p.m. (ET);
Grades K−4: first Thursdays of the month
Grades 5−8: third Thursdays of the month
Math Club I FAQ
Learn more about Math Club I in the Virtual Library.
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved. Page 17
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Fourth through eighth graders compete in the in-
ternational Mathematical Olympiads. These gifted and talented
math students meet twice a month: first to review high-level problem
-solving strategies and techniques, and next to apply their skills in the
official completion and accrue points that will determine annual
winners.
Grade Level: 4–6; 6–8
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Team 1: Tuesdays from 3–4 p.m. (ET)
Team 2: Wednesdays from 3–4 p.m. (ET)
Team 1 Team 2
November 8 November 9
November 15 November 16
December 6 December 7
December 13 December 14
January 3 January 4
January 10 January 11
February 7 February 8
February 14 February 15
February 28 March 1
March 7 March 8
Math Club II FAQ
Learn more about Math Club II in the Virtual Library.
Page 18
Club Description: Movie Club members learn about film genres,
acting, special effects, and musical compositions around monthly
themes. Student film buffs gain opportunities to demonstrate their
creativity and collaborate with others to create their own movies or
animations as part of a virtual showcase.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Mondays 3-4 p.m. (ET)
ELEM: first Mondays of the month
MS/HS: third Mondays of the month
Movie Club FAQ
Learn more about Movie Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 19
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Music Club is for students who enjoy perform-
ing, composing, or listening to music. Members explore various
musical genres, elements of music, and have opportunities to col-
laborate and exercise their creativity by designing their own musi-
cal instruments and compositions. Students will also be able to
participate in a virtual showcase and talent exhibitions.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Thursdays from 3–4 p.m. (ET)
ELEM: second Thursday of the month MS/HS: fourth Thursday of the month
Music Club FAQ
Learn more about Music Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 20
Club Description: Pen Pals is a new twist on a classic way to build
friendships. Students develop their skills in letter writing and penman-
ship while making friends with other Connections Education stu-
dents. Monthly LiveLesson sessions focus on allowing students to
share common interests, hobbies, and experiences.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
There are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.
Pen Pals FAQ
Learn more about Pen Pals in the Virtual Library.
Page 21
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Pens and Lens is our monthly web-based mag-
azine which recognizes and publishes original short stories, poet-
ry, and photography. Students of all ability levels are encour-
aged to participate and inspire one another’s literary and pho-
tographic endeavors through monthly submissions.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
There are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.
Pens and Lens FAQ
Learn more about Pens and Lens in the Virtual Library.
Page 22
Club Description: Middle and high school writers work together to
explore the language of poetry. Twice monthly LiveLesson sessions
are held to share and critique work and allow students to read their
original poems on the microphone or webcam.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Fridays from 2–3 (ET); second and fourth Fridays
Poetry Corner FAQ
Learn more about Poetry Corner in the Virtual Library.
Page 23
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Members compete in weekly academic compe-
titions, applying their knowledge of fun facts and trivia. Students
with the highest percentage of correct answers to course ques-
tions are recognized at the end of the year in the weekly E-News
and receive certificates and prizes.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
There are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.
Quiz Bowl FAQ
Learn more about Quiz Bowl in the Virtual Library.
Page 24
Club Description: Robotics Club guides members through the ex-
citing world of robots as they learn to define what a robot is (and
what it isn't!), study the myths that surround robots, examine how
robots are used in media, and consider how robots assist humans.
Selected students will have access to program a virtual robot
through an online program.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
ELEM: Mondays from 1–2 p.m. (ET)
MS/HS: Tuesdays from 1–2 p.m. (ET)
Robotics Club FAQ
Learn more about Robotics Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 25
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Science Club students learn about various sci-
ence topics and work with the scientific method to plan their own
experiments and make observations about the world around them.
Students can perform experiments at home then share the process-
es and results with their peers in LiveLesson® sessions and on the
Message Board.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Mondays 1–2 p.m. (ET); first and third Mondays of the month
Science Club FAQ
Learn more about Science Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 26
Club Description: Elementary and middle school students who
want to apply their research skills and scientific knowledge by con-
ducting experiments using household items will enjoy Science in
the Kitchen. Students’ kitchens double as laboratories for conduct-
ing safe, simple experiments. Club members then discuss their re-
sults on club Message Boards with fellow students.
Grade Level: K–8
LiveLesson® session days and times: there are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.
Science in the Kitchen FAQ
Learn more about Science in the Kitchen in the Virtual Library.
Page 27
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Club Description: Sports Club students who enjoy athletics explore a
variety of sporting activities. Members discuss the similarities and dif-
ferences of seasonal sports and have the opportunity to learn about
training techniques and fitness programs. Students also compete
during LiveLesson sessions in Last Student Standing and warm-up ac-
tivities.
Grade Level: K–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Wednesdays 2–3 p.m. (ET)
ELEM: first Wednesdays of the month MS/HS: third Wednesdays of the month
Sports Club FAQ
Learn more about Sports Club in the Virtual Library.
Page 28
Club Description The Monitor is Connections Education’s student-
managed, student-staffed newspaper. Our writers and editors
work together to write and organize content for sections of the
newspaper including news, entertainment, sports, and school hap-
penings.
Grade Level: 6–12
LiveLesson® session days and times:
Monday 2–3:00 p.m. (ET)
The Monitor Newspaper FAQ
Learn more about The Monitor Newspaper in the Virtual Library.
Page 29
Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance Document
Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance document serves as a fast facts
type document for each club. It can be found in the Virtual Li-
brary under Clubs and Activities.
Clubs and Activities Team
Jaime Waggoner
Nichole Schumaker
Olivia Wisniewski
Laura Strattan
If you have any questions related to clubs or signing up for clubs,
please send a WebMail message to the Clubs and Activities Coor-
dinator.
Page 30
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved. Page 31
Connections Education® offers three different Talent Networks: the
Sports Talent Network, the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Net-
work, and the Science and Technology Talent Network. These Spe-
cialty Talent Networks are virtually facilitated programs designed
for enrolled middle and high school Connections Academy® stu-
dents who are actively involved in competitive sports, the visual
and performing arts, or advanced STEM coursework (science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics). These programs pro-
vide students in grades 6-12 the opportunity to network with other
students in their fields of interest, meet engaging guest speakers,
and take part in projects and competitions to help students excel
in their areas of interest. The Talent Networks are facilitated at a
national level by the Talent Networks team, and include:
exploring college and career options
specialized instruction through student-focused groups
and activities
networking and collaboration opportunities between like
-minded students
enrichment activities, including presentations by artists,
athletes, professionals in the field, and subject matter
experts lettering opportunities
Students who wish to participate in the Talent Networks must apply using a data view application permissioned to their Caretakers. The application windows for the 2016–2017 school year are:
Application Opens: August 15, 2016 (9:00 a.m. ET)
Application Closes: January 9, 2017 (5:00 p.m. ET)
Page 32
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Lettering
Students accepted into the Talent Networks may be considered for
lettering in the spring of each school
year. Lettering offers Talent Network
members the opportunity to flourish with-
in their Talent Network by demonstrating
exceptionality in three categories: Lead-
ership, Participation, and Attendance.
Students who go above and beyond
and exhibit high levels of consistent par-
ticipation, engagement and commit-
ment to their Talent Network will be
awarded a decorative letter and pin in a celebratory Virtual Letter-
ing Ceremony.
Applying to the Talent Networks
To apply to a Talent Networks, a student must already be enrolled full
-time in a Connections Academy School, Nexus Academy School,
iNaCA, or select Connections Learning schools. The Talent Networks
application consists of a submission of artifacts documenting the stu-
dent’s interests, talents, and desire to participate in the Talent Net-
works. Applications are accepted during three application windows
on a rolling admissions basis.
Window Application Cutoff Date
Applicants Notified/Sectioned
1 September 26, 2016 October 3, 2016
2 October 24, 2016 October 31, 2016
3 November 21, 2016 December 5, 2016
4 January 9, 2017 January 17, 2017
Page 33
Application Process and Timeline
Students enrolled in a Connections Education full-time program
may apply to one of the Talent Networks. Students may apply to
additional academies upon completion of their first year in the
program.
The Talent Networks application consists of a submission of arti-
facts documenting the student’s interests, talents, and desire to
participate in the Talent Networks (see specific application re-
quirements). The application is made available to Caretakers un-
der the student’s Data View ( ) in Connexus® at the start of
the application window.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis starting August 15,
2016 at 9:00 a.m. (ET) and closing on January 9, 2017 at 5:00 p.m.
(ET). There will be four application windows. Students will receive
a notification of the admission committee’s decision via a Web-
Mail message no later than one month following the submission
deadline. Those accepted will be sectioned into their Talent Net-
work course in Connexus shortly thereafter. Application statuses
will be confirmed according to the dates on the chart on the op-
posing page. Students accepted into the Talent Networks will
begin participating in a variety of activities, such as LiveLesson®
sessions, networking opportunities, collaborative projects, and
many other amazing activities.
Page 34
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Participation Expectations
Students accepted into the Talent Networks will be encouraged
to actively participate in their Talent Network by attending Live-
Lesson sessions, communicating and collaborating with fellow
program members, contributing to Message Board topics and
discussions, and engaging in competitions, contests, and other
specialized activities. Students are encouraged to share and
broaden their gifts and talents by enrolling in specialized elec-
tives and related clubs and activities that align to their specific
program. Students in the Talent Networks who demonstrate high
levels of participation and commitment will be eligible to letter,
starting with the 2015–2016 school year based on the Talent Net-
works Lettering Criteria.
For more information, send a WebMail message to the
Talent Network Coordinator.
Page 35
The Science and Technology Talent Network is available for students
who demonstrate talent in science, technology, engineering, and/
or math. Components of the Science and Technology Talent Net-
work include project based learning activities, collaborative pro-
jects, and networking opportunities devoted to fostering growth in
the STEM disciplines. Science and Technology Talent Network mem-
bership is an ideal way for students to cultivate their burgeoning tal-
ents, enrich their academic lives, and enjoy opportunities to interact
with other like-minded students and professionals. Students with ad-
vanced abilities gain exposure to today’s cutting-edge innovations
through guest experts from such fields as robotics, cyber security, en-
vironmental science, and astronomy. Past experts have included a
NASA engineer and a member of the FBI’s Cyber Crime Taskforce. A
variety of competitions and learning activities are provided in order
to inspire students and challenge students. The following are exam-
ples of the types of activities and programs that could be made
available through the Science and Technology Talent Network:
Virtual BioBlitz
Students created an interactive website which included stu-
dent-submitted images of plants and animals from across the
United States and around the world. The interactive map al-
lowed students to focus on geographic regions. Additional
pages highlighted endangered and extinct species. This web-
site was student created and maintained.
The Stock Market Game
Students work collaboratively to invest a virtual $100,000 in
stocks for an online portfolio. Students research companies
and discuss stock options as well as determine how much
money and in which companies to invest in order to create
the most profitable portfolio. Decisions made by the team are
analyzed and applied in real time using the New York Stock
Exchange.
Page 36
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved. Page 37
Our Sports Talent Network connects student-athletes—including
promising future Olympians—from across the nation so they can net-
work and collaborate with other exceptional athletes. Here they
can share training tips, discover strategies to improve sport perfor-
mance, and learn about the journey to becoming an elite athlete.
Sports Talent Network members participate in activities including fit-
ness challenges, sports training workshops and learning labs, mentor-
ing opportunities, virtual interviews, and interacting with professionals
in the arena. Previous guest speakers for the Sports Talent Network
have included Greg Louganis, four-time Olympic diving champion,
and James Carter, two-time track and field Olympian.
Sports Talent Network members explore and learn through work-
shops. Workshops are facilitated by teachers, guest speakers, and
students and cover sports-related topics such as fitness, sports nutri-
tion, sports management, sports psychology, careers in sports, and
life after sports. The workshops are conducted via LiveLesson® ses-sion where student−athletes are active participants and engaged in
the learning. Workshop components include:
a pre-session activity for students to complete before the
session to discuss and share prior knowledge with peers.
a post-session activity for students to submit after the Live-
Lesson session to reflect, compare and analyze new find-
ings.
a Message Board thread for students to converse and
share key concepts of the workshop session including their
response to the information, how they plan to utilize the
information and how it applies to their daily life.
Page 38
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Student Mentoring Program – The Sports Talent Network Peer Mentor
Program pairs compatible student athletes by assigning a mentor
and a mentee. Student mentors help guide, transition, and support
their mentee’s academic and athletic experience. Mentors share
experiences, knowledge, and strategies with their mentees for suc-
cess in balancing school, life, and sport. Student mentees look to
their mentors as a resource for advice and assistance with any chal-
lenges they may face in their journey to becoming an elite athlete.
The Sports Talent Network Peer Mentor Program seeks to:
create and develop lasting relationships among like-
minded students.
provide a networking opportunity for student-athletes who
share similar areas of expertise.
offer support and guidance to new and/or emerging
Sports Talent Network athletes.
The Sports Talent Network Peer Mentor program helps students de-
velop skills in leadership, organization, team building, listening and
problem solving.
Sports Talent Network students engage in Collaborative Chat ses-
sions via LiveLesson® session. Chat sessions allow students to connect
virtually using the web camera, microphone, or the chat pod to
share and discuss upcoming competitions, events, and other inter-
ests in both sports and non-related sports topics. Students use the
chat session as an avenue to connect with other student-athletes
discussing subjects ranging from their practice schedules to their fa-
vorite books.
Page 39
The Visual and Performing Arts Talent Networks is a virtually
facilitated program designed for full-time enrolled middle and high
school Connections Academy® students who are actively involved
in the visual and performing arts. The Visual and Performing Arts pro-
gram offers opportunities for networking and collaborating, specialty
-focused activities, and enriching experiences to improve students’
talents and enhance their academic lives. Visual and Performing
Arts Talent Networks membership is an ideal way to connect with like
-minded students and explore college and career options.
Visual and Performing Arts Talent Networks students engage
in Collaborative Chat sessions via LiveLesson® session. Chat sessions
allow students to connect virtually using the web camera, micro-
phone, or the chat pod to share and discuss upcoming competi-
tions, events, and various other interests like the latest recoding soft-
ware or new trends in digital art.
It is valuable for students to have the opportunity to interact
with field professionals in order to help students obtain a more
meaningful learning experience. To date, Visual and Performing Arts
Talent Networks members have interacted with Irene Dreayer, a not-
ed Nickelodeon producer, Geoff McBride, noted musician and con-
testant from The Voice, and Heather Liskiewitz of the Care Conserva-
tory of Ballet.
Members of the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Networks
are provided with leadership opportunities in the Broadcast and The-
ater Arts Club, Art Club, and the Visual and Performing Arts Talent
Network where they can share their knowledge and experiences
with other students. Members participate in collaborative and inde-
pendent projects, such as the Day in the Life, the Commercial Pro-
ject, and a music video. In addition, Visual and Performing Arts Tal-
ent Networks members play a key role in evaluating and critiquing
Virtual Talent Show candidates.
Members of the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Networks
learn skills that enhance their skills as performing artists as well as a
variety of strategies designed to encourage success in the business
of the visual and performing arts fields.
Page 40
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved. Page 41
Special Events
Special Events are open to all full time Connections Acad-
emy, NEXUS Academy, iNaCA, and some Connections
Learning students. There is no sign up required. Some
events are contests while others may allow students to
share their talents or to participate in LiveLesson sessions.
Below is a list of the Special Events offered by the Student
Experience team.
Cards for Kids
DimensionU™ Tournaments
Fan Frenzy Trivia
Fashion Design Challenge
Music Contest
Photography Contest
Sky Gazers
Stellar Spellers
Virtual Art Gallery
Virtual BioBlitz
Virtual Talent Show
Yearbook Art Contest
Page 42
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Cards for Kids Students in all grades are encouraged to design greeting cards
which will be distributed to sick children in Baltimore area hospi-
tals. Submissions will be accepted starting January 9, 2017—
February 3, 2017 Send cards via the U.S Postal Service to:
Clubs and Activities– Cards for Kids 1001 Fleet Street, 5th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
Cards for Kids flier
DimensionU™ Tournaments Students in grades 3–12 have access to DimensionU™ from their
home pages. During each tournament period, the student with
the highest score and the highest logged hours will be an-
nounced as the winner in the Clubs and Activities newsletter. Priz-
es will be awarded for top scorers. See the directions for Installing
DimensionM. There will be tournaments for DimensionM and for
DimensionL.
Monthly tournaments allow students to reinforce skills and com-
pete. The dates are below.
Oct. 24– Nov. 10
Nov. 21 – Dec.8
Jan. 9 – Jan 26
Feb. 6 – Feb. 23
March 6 – March 23
April 3 – April 27
DimensionU™ Tournaments flier
Page 43
Fan Frenzy Trivia
All Connections students are invited to participate in our Fan Fren-
zy sports trivia tournament. Students can compete in one of three
brackets: Rookies (grades K-4), Minor League (grades 5-8), Major
League (grades 9-12). To sign up, send a WebMail message to the
Clubs and Activities Coordinator between January 4 and January
31.
The tournament begins February 8, 2016.
Fan Frenzy flier
Fashion Design Challenge
Original fashion designs in one of several categories will be ac-
cepted, compiled, and then shared in an eBook as well as in Live-
Lesson session. Students are limited to one submission and all stu-
dents are given the opportunity to vote for their favorite designs.
Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Art
Club Coordinator from January 30–February 28.
Fashion Design Challenge flier
Page 44
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Music Contest
Original music is submitted in various music genres by students in all
grades. Submissions can be created by individuals or groups, on
traditional instruments or using the Connections Education Virtual
Music tool. Students are limited to one submission and all students
are given the opportunity to vote for their favorite songs in each
genre.
Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Clubs
and Activities Coordinator from January 16—February 17.
Music Contest flier
Photography Contest Students in all grades may submit one photograph total,. The stu-
dent may pick the one category they would like to enter. Catego-
ries are color photographs, black and white photographs, or digi-
tally manipulated photographs. All photographs are shared in
eBooks and winners are selected by a committee of teachers.
Three submissions per student are accepted via WebMail message
sent to the Clubs and Activities Coordinator from February 6–March 17.
Photography Contest flier
Page 45
Sky Gazers Do you wonder what is really out there in outer space? Then this is
the Special Event for you! Students from all grades will gather
monthly in LiveLesson sessions to discuss which constellations, plan-
ets, and other objects are visible in the night sky. Information about
different satellites and other man-made objects that humans have
put into space will also be shared. Students are encouraged to
create presentations related to any aspect of astronomy as an at-
tachment to a WebMail message to a WebMail message sent to
the Clubs and Activities Coordinator.
LiveLesson sessions will be held on the following Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. (ET).
Oct. 27 Dec. 8 Feb. 9 April 13
Star Gazers flier
Stellar Spellers Students in all grades will show off their spelling skills in this series of
LiveLesson sessions. Differentiated groupings will be available for
students of different spelling levels. Earlier sessions will be practice
for the final Spelling Bee which will be held on May 11, 2017
Bi-Monthly LiveLesson sessions take place on the following Thurs-
days: November 10, January 19, March 9, May 11
Beginner sessions at 2:00 p.m. (ET)
Advanced sessions at 2:30 p.m. (ET)
Spelling Bee flier
Page 46
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Virtual Art Gallery
Original artwork is submitted in the various genres by students in
all grades. The accepted art forms are sketches, drawings, paint-
ings, digital art (excluding photography), and sculpture. Students
are limited to one submission. Submissions must be labeled with
the student’s name, grade, school, and title of artwork.
Submissions are accepted via WebMail mes-
sage sent to the Visual and Performing Arts
Talent Network Coordinator from January 9 –
February 3. There are not any LiveLesson ses-
sions associate with this contest.
Virtual Art Gallery flier
Virtual Bio-Blitz Join students of all ages from around the country in identifying
different species from the natural world! In this Virtual BioBlitz, Con-
nections students will submit the different animal and plant spe-
cies they see in their neighborhoods. They will then be able to see
how the flora and fauna around the country compares with what
is found in their own backyard.
Submissions will be accepted starting October, 24—December 16,
2016.
Virtual Bio-Blitz flier
Page 47
Virtual Talent Show
Students in grades 6–12 submit video files of a song, dramatic read-
ing, or dance routine to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy
Coordinator. All submissions will be judged. The top five students will
preform live in LiveLesson session. From those five participants,
members of the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network will de-
termine the first, second, and third place winners.
Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Visual
and Performing Arts Talent Network Coordinator.
March 20 – April 7.
Announcement of Winners: May 8
Virtual Talent Show flier
Yearbook Art Contest
All students are invited to submit one entry designed around the
selected theme for the year via WebMail message sent to the Clubs
and Activities Coordinator. Each year, the winning submission of the
Yearbook Art Contest is displayed on the yearbook landing page.
Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Clubs
and Activities Coordinator from September 12—September 30.
Yearbook Art Contest flier
Page 48
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.
Which Special Event
Is Right for You?
Cards for Kids
DimensionM™ Tournaments
Fan Frenzy Trivia
Fashion Design Challenge
Music Contest
Photography Contest
Sky Gazers
Stellar Spellers
Virtual Art Gallery
Virtual BioBlitz
Virtual Talent Show
Yearbook Art Contest
See the Special Events flier and remember
that since there is no need to sign up for
Special Events, you can simply participate
as your schedule allows.
Page 49
Yearbook Students in all grades are encouraged to visit the online yearbook
and upload content onto their student page. Be sure to see the
2016—2017 Connector Yearbook. Students will be able to access
previous yearbooks. In the Virtual Library Once in the yearbook,
students can:
upload pictures to personal and club pages
upload videos to personal and club pages
respond to polls and surveys
autograph other student’s pages
connect with other students and teachers
Page 50
Send the Clubs and
Activities
Coordinator a
WebMail Message
© 2016 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved. Page 51