Character Counts!

G o lA e gU P cS u s sc S uscs eP a r trt e e r sh i p C E l R e A c e c / e c s s Pa n n r s h i p Upcoming events Monday, Dec. 10 Board of Education, Meeting, 7 PM 2651 Burnet Ave., Auditorium Wednesday, Dec. 12 PLAN Test (pre-ACT), Grade 10 Dec. 17-21 Semester Exams, Grades 9-10 Dec. 24-Jan. 3 Winter Recess. Schools closed. Friday, Jan. 4 End of Second Quarter. No pupils. Special Advertising Supplement December 5, 2007 CHARACTER COUNTS! SM tHe DOs and DON’Ts oF cHaRacteR DO: • • • • • • • Stand up for your beliefs Follow your conscience Have courage to do what is right Try new things Build – and guard – your reputation Be a good friend Treat others the way you want to be treated DON’T: • • • • • • • Do anything you know is wrong Lose heart if you fail Lie Cheat Steal Gossip Do something just so others will like you W ho we are is more than what clothes we wear, how tall we are, or what part of town we live in. It’s also our actions and our attitude. Good character affects the way other people see us and is necessary to successfully meet life’s challenges. Serving 3,800 students in 23 Cincinnati Public Schools For more information: phone 513-556-3611 or fax 513-556-1037 Good character helps us gain respect from others and for ourselves. Unlike some of our other characteristics, we have control over what kind of character we have. Establishing good personal character takes time and commitment, but the results are worth the effort. Setting a positive example is one of the best ways to teach character. While parents are primarily responsible for their child’s character education, there are supporting roles for everyone in the community — from teachers, youth leaders and clergy, to business people and entertainers. It’s up to all of us to teach young people right from wrong. Character begins with you! Did you know that it’s never too late to teach the importance of good character to your child? As a parent, you have the power to reinforce the magnitude of citizenship, respect, and kindness. By maintaining good character yourself, your child will likely follow your example. Consider the following: Just for Parents: H Treat others as you would like to be treated. This might seem obvious, but it is very important that you set a good example for your child. When stressing the importance of kindness and respect, make sure your own relationships demonstrate it. For example, don’t yell at someone else in front of your child. This only tells him or her it is acceptable behavior. YOU are your child’s role model. you are there to help, but also allows your child to solve the problem as an independent thinker. By being a listener through conflict, your child utilizes important skills necessary in life, such as responsibility, teamwork, and respect. Millions of students across the country receive additional support from the CHARACTER COUNTS! Coalition, an alliance of human-service agencies and educational organizations that work to teach the universal moral truths that define good character. CHARACTER COUNTS! advocates core ethical values that transcend political, religious, class and ethnic divisions. They help youth develop the “Six Pillars of Character:” trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. These core values were defined by a diverse group of educators, youth leaders and ethics experts who agreed that, no matter what cultural differences people may have, the “Six Pillars of Character” remained constant and important for personal growth. And CHARACTER COUNTS! really works. Schools that have worked with the CHARACTER COUNTS! program have seen higher standardized test scores and an improved commitment to academics from their students. Other schools have reported that CHARACTER COUNTS! sharply cuts drug and alcohol use among students, and has significantly improved the school’s atmosphere. Teachers have seen better student behavior towards each other and have reported positively changing their own behavior as a result of using the CHARACTER COUNTS! program. Children and adults alike can strengthen their lives with character education. Character counts in all aspects of life — in your personal relationships, in school, in the community and in the workplace. Who you are makes a difference. Good character helps us gain respect from others and for ourselves. CHARACTER COUNTS! and Six Pillars of Character are service marks of the CHARACTER COUNTS! Coalition, a project of the Josephson Institute of Ethics. www. charactercounts.org H Be your child’s “helper”, not problem-solver. Helping your child with conflict shows H Encourage your child to be honest. Teenagers often feel that they cannot confide in their parents because it risks getting them into trouble. Emphasize the importance of honesty, integrity and respect. Remind your child that they can confide in you, no matter what the problem is. When your child does lie or stretch the truth, focus on the behavior problem and ways to make it right, rather than yelling or punishing. This shows them that they need not fear discipline, and that you can help. Did You Know? Volunteers are in demand For information on how and where to volunteer at a Cincinnati Public School, contact Stephanie Cappel, 513-556-3611. H Volunteer with your child. By making community service a part of your life, you reinforce the importance of caring for others, citizenship, and responsibility. Your child will realize that he or she can make a difference in someone’s life, and feel good while doing it! December 5, 2007 Special Advertising Supplement Page 2 There is no escaping the fact that college tuition is steadily increasing. According to reports published by College Board, many students can expect to pay up to $1,238 more annually compared to two years ago. But the good news is, there is more financial aid assistance than ever before-over $134 billion is up for grabs. Unlike traditional loans you must pay back upon graduation, scholarships, also known as “free money,” do not need to be repaid. Scholarships are awarded for grades, community service, and even unique talents. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to have a 4.0 GPA or extraordinary athletic talent. Many scholarship offers require only that you have plans to attend a two or four-year university, and ask that you simply write an essay on an assigned topic to be considered for the award. Remember, there are many corporations out there who want to see you succeed that offer a variety of scholarships. A few scholarships with March and April deadlines are listed below. Check with your GEARUP college access advisor or guidance counselor for more. Contact: National Press Club. Attn: General Manager Office, 529 14th St. NW; Washington, DC, 20045; 202662-7500; www.press.org. Eligibility: Minority high school seniors, accepted to college and planning on pursuing a major in journalism. Applicants must demonstrate an ongoing interest in journalism through work in high school and/or other media. A one-page essay and a 2.75 GPA are also required. Award: $5,000. Deadline: March 1, 2008. Contact: Journalism Education Association, Kansas State University, 103 Kedzie Hall, Manhattan, KS, 66506. 785-532-7822. www.jea.org. Eligibility: Must be a high school student who, through journalism, has made a difference in their own life, others lives, or the school or community. Award: $1,000. Deadline: March 1, 2008. Contact: Dominican Community College of San Rafael; 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901; 415-4574400; Fax 415-485-3205; www.dominican.edu. Eligibility: Latino/a who has demonstrated an excellent academic record, outstanding leadership availability, and participated in school and community activities. Award: $7,335. Deadline: March 2, 2008. Contact: Editor, Humanist Magazine, 1777 T Street, Washington, DC 20009; 800-837-3792; www.thehumanist. org. Eligibility: Must be a student enrolled in grades 9-12 as of March 3, 2008, and have thoughts on humanity and the future. Essay on humanity must be between 1,500 and 3,000 words single-spaced. Award: up to $1,000. Deadline: March 3, 2008. Contact: Scholarship Coordinator, 55 Second St. Suite 1500, San Francisco, CA, 94105. 877-473-4636; www.hsf. net. Eligibility: Must be a graduating high school senior of Hispanic heritage. Must also be a U.S. citizen with a minimum of 3.0 GPA. Award: $5,000. Deadline: March 15, 2008. Contact: Hispanic College Fund, Inc. 1301 K Street NW, Suite 450-A West, Washington, DC 20005. 202-2965400; www.hispanicfund.org. Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen, have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA while enrolled full-time, demonstrate financial need, and be committed to alleviating hunger and poverty in the United States. Award: $5,000. Deadline: March 15, 2008. Ellen Masin Persina Scholarship Contact: Scholarship Coordinator, 9665 Gateway Drive, Suite B, Reno, NV, 89521. 775-852-3483; www.davidsonfellows.org. Eligibility: Applicants must be under the age of 18 as of October 1, pursuing a major in science, technology, mathematics, literature, music, or philosophy. Award: 50 winners, up to $50,000. Deadline: March 30, 2008. Davidson Fellows Scholarship Student Journalist Impact Award Financial Service Centers of America Financial Scholarship Fund Contact: Henry Shyne, Director, at 201-487-3954; www.fisca.org/scholar. Eligibility: Must demonstrate academic achievement, leadership skills, and financial need. Award: $2,500. Deadline: April 5, 2008. Contact: Scholarship Coordinator, 164 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010. 212-807-1990; www.worldstudio.org Eligibility: Must be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in fine or commercial arts, design or architecture. Must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum of a 2.0 GPA. Award: Varies. Deadline: April 13, 2008. Contact: Director of Performing Arts, 1300 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036. 202-6282800; www.vsarts.org. Eligibility: Must be a middle or high school student who has written an original one-act play no longer than 40 pages. Award: Varies. Deadline: April 14, 2008. The World Studio Foundation Scholarship Alana Leadership Merit Award Playwright Discovery Award The Humanist Essay Contest HCF/Sallie Mae First in My Family Scholarship HSF/High School Scholarship Program Contact: www.hispanicfund.org. Eligibility: Must be Hispanic, and a U.S. citizen with a minimum of 3.0 GPA. Must demonstrate financial need and be first in family to attend college. Award: $5,000. Deadline: April 15, 2008. Bill Coggins Community Service Leadership Award Scholarships Deadlines — March and April Contact: Wiedner & Vandercook MSF; c/o Leal PortisChairperson; 16335 Patricia Way; Grass Valley, CA 95949; 530-272-6018; www.grandmothersforpeace.org. Eligibility: High school senior or college freshman, with history of community involvement. Two letters of recommendation and a plan for contributing to a healthy planet are also required. Award: $250-$500. Deadline: March 1, 2008. HCF Sodexho Scholarship Program Dorothy Vandercook Peace Scholarship Contact: Martin Rodarte, 1465 E. 103rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90002. 323-564-7911; www.kaiserpermanante. org. Eligibility: Must provide documents of voluntary community service unrelated to school requirements, including letters of recommendation. Must be a high school senior with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Award: $2,000. Deadline: April 21, 2008. Page 3 Special Advertising Supplement December 5, 2007 CPS High Schools – choose wisely! Cincinnati Public Schools Ninth-Grade Application Period, is January 14-23, 2008. Apply as early as possible during the enrollment period. Riverview east academy (preschool-12) (Citywide acceptance for grades 9-12 only) 3555 Kellogg Avenue, Columbia Tusculum, % 513-363-3400 West side montessori High school (7-12) (Accepting 7th-, 8th-, 9th- and 10th-graders only) 5425 Winton Ridge Lane, Winton Place (temporary space), % 513-363-2600 aiken college & career High school (9-12) 5641 Belmont Avenue, College Hill, % 513-363-6760 Aiken College and Career High School offers a college preparatory program exploring careers in Government/Public Administration, Law & Public Safety, Human Services, and Education/Training in a campus-style setting. Ninth-graders study together in the Freshmen Academy, with a common set of teachers working with students to ensure success; a Summer Orientation Program; state-of-the-art technology; and a state grant initiative focused on promotion into 10th grade. Tenth-graders make up the Success Academy where they can take honors classes, and explore colleges and careers. Juniors and seniors make up the Upper Academy. Nearly 15 percent of Upper Academy students take dual-enrollment courses through the University of Cincinnati. The school’s goal for seniors is for each student, upon graduation, to be accepted into a college/university program, an apprenticeship program, or a career placement of choice. The school’s College-Bound initiative provides monthly college visits for each academy, a College Resource Center, GEAR UP and the GE Scholars Program. Students wear uniforms to class. Riverview East has been designed as a Community Learning Center that offers students a well-rounded education that prepares them for life after graduation. The rigorous coursework allows students to be prepared to further their education in college, technical schools or the workplace. Juniors and seniors select courses in conjunction with Cincinnati State Technical and Community College in areas of aviation, environmental engineering in water management or landscape design. Students wear uniforms to class. school for creative and performing arts (4-12) 1310 Sycamore Street, Over-the-Rhine, % 513-363-8000 SCPA is a premier nationally and internationally recognized preprofessional arts-training program that provides an environment aimed at developing the artistic and academic potential of each student. Comprehensive studies in the arts — including creative writing, dance, drama, instrumental music, technical theater, visual arts and vocal music — prepare students to professionally pursue arts majors and academic success after graduation. SCPA students consistently score above average on national achievement tests. A rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum includes challenging work in core academic subjects. Acceptance is based on a successful audition, scheduled after an application form is submitted. Call 363-8080 to begin the application process. This new Montessori high school is modeled after CPS’ successful Clark Montessori High School. Its teachers and students work together as a community, creating a nurturing social climate at this college-preparatory school. Montessori teachers study the writings of Maria Montessori (Italian physician and educator) and current educational research on the adolescent to create a program based upon the developmental needs of children. Previous Montessori experienced required; acceptance of a student without Montessori experience is considered based on an interview. Withrow international High school (9-12) 2488 Madison Road, Hyde Park, % 513-363-9000 Providing an educational environment with an international perspective, this school’s three programs and services prepare students to meet the challenges of a diverse society. Technology-infused learning with an international focus prepares students to enter a global economy, and a student body from more than 37 countries offers an unique environment for global awareness. This school was chosen a 2005 and 2007 School of Promise by the Ohio Department of Education. International Language Program — A strong academic program offers four years of world language study and four years of academic preparation in core subjects and globally oriented courses, such as Spanish Heritage and Multicultural Arts. International Baccalaureate (IB) Program — The IB program follows the challenging requirements of the International Baccalaureate Organization’s prestigious Diploma Programme. College-level credit (Advanced Placement) courses are offered in many subjects. The IB program requires self-directed study and the ability to complete work by IB deadlines. International Business Program — A full academic program with four years of a foreign language, this business program offers the Academy of Finance focusing on business and financial management, and Law and Paralegal Studies focusing on international law. aiken University High school (9-12) 5641 Belmont Avenue, College Hill, % 513-363-6800 Aiken University High School is a college-preparatory Environmental Studies school, seeking students who are committed to a rigorous curriculum, who read regularly and like to write, and are interested in math, science and technology. Students study urban environmental issues such as water quality, air pollution, climate change, asthma and lead poisoning. Tech Prep science and career classes allow exploration of environmental engineering and technical majors. Opportunities include mentoring; free tutoring provided through GE Aviation & GEAR UP; use of the Outdoor Lab; and outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, camping, canoeing and rock climbing. Varsity sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, track, cross-country, cheerleading and dance/drill team lead the extracurricular program along with the Academic Team, Leadership Team, Green Team and other clubs. A College Resource Center assists students in visiting, preparing for and applying to college. Partnerships with GE Aviation, the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati State Technical and Community College enhance college readiness and provide dual enrollment classes with college credit during senior year. Students wear uniforms to class. shroder High school (7-12) 5030 Duck Creek Road, Madisonville, % 513-363-6900 (Limited space available due to this program’s popularity.) Shroder, a 2004 Ohio School of Promise, is a college-preparatory school that follows the Paideia (py-dayuh) method of teaching. Shroder provides a rigorous liberal-arts education that gives all students the skills necessary to think and act critically, and to develop into lifelong learners. Paideia comes from the Greek for “the upbringing of a child.” The Paideia method of teaching focuses on developing critical-thinking skills using group seminars, where students learn by asking questions and participating in discussions; coaching sessions, which help students develop learning skills; and didactic classroom instruction for increasing students’ factual recall. Robert a. taft information technology High school (9-12) 2240 Baltimore Ave., Fairmount (temporary space), % 513-363-8200 This school offers a rich, varied educational program, which allows students to excel in many areas. Students are given individual attention in a team-based environment. This school focuses on a wide range of information-technology skills with access to cutting-edge technology. Students begin with introductory computer curriculum in areas such as programming, maintenance and network administration, which can lead to specialist certification. College-credit courses are offered through arrangements with area colleges, and real-world experience is provided through partnerships with Cincinnati Bell and others. Withrow University High school (9-12) 2520 Madison Road, Hyde Park, % 513-363-9200 Rigorous academic preparation for college-level achievement earned Withrow University the highest rank, Excellent, on the 2003-04, 2005-06 and 2006-07 Ohio Report Card. Academic excellence coupled with individual student success are the hallmarks of this school’s advanced academic program, “where every student is college bound.” The school’s one-on-one college center gives students and families extensive guidance in how to choose colleges, gain admission and secure funding. Incoming freshmen participate in the Summer Bridge Program at Xavier University. Partnerships with Xavier, Miami University, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati State allow students to take courses for dual high school and college credits. In 2005 and 2007, this school was selected an Ohio School of Promise. Some classes separated by gender. Students wear uniforms to class. clark montessori (7-12) 5425 Winton Ridge Lane, Winton Place (temporary space), % 513-363-7100 The first public Montessori high school in the nation, Clark earns top rankings on the Ohio Report Card and was recognized in 2001 as a strong example of a successful small school by the University of Minnesota’s Center for School Change. Clark is recognized for its rigorous academic curriculum. Teachers and students work together as a community, creating a nurturing social climate. Each student signs a contract each year promising to build community and to work in teams with teachers and peers. Students learn to manage long-term projects and are coached in leadership and decision-making skills. Previous Montessori experience required; acceptance of a student without Montessori experience is considered based on an interview. virtual High school (9th grade-age 22) 2515 Clifton Avenue, University Heights, % 513-363-7760 This school does not enroll students who are entering 9th grade for the first time, except with special permission. Woodward career technical High school (9-12) 7005 Reading Road, Bond Hill, % 513-363-9300 Four programs expand students’ interests in engineering, manufacturing, health, bioscience, electricity, carpentry, construction and owning a small business. All programs prepare students for college and advanced training. Advanced Manufacturing Technologies — Today’s manufacturing jobs are based in technology and electronics — cars, computers, cell phones, refrigerators, TVs, etc. This hands-on program introduces students to a manufacturing environment, where they become involved in computer-assisted design (CAD) and the setup, monitoring and planning of manufacturing tasks. Building Technologies — Students who like to build things are introduced to the theory and the business of construction. They learn the algebra, geometry and physics involved in construction, and they learn how to set up small construction businesses. The hands-on, computer-based training helps students get summer work in construction. Health Technologies — This hands-on program prepares students for careers in health care, the nation’s third-largest employer. Students are introduced to the fields of biotechnology, laboratory science, radiology and medical assisting. Students perform a variety of technical functions, including organizing and evaluating health information, compiling health statistics and coding diseases. Entrepreneurship — A focus on small businesses and a strong academic program prepares students for graduation, college and careers. Courses in such areas as advertising, market research, banking, investing, and forecasting a product’s supply and demand teach students the details of running a business. Students are paired with mentors from small businesses and placed in internships to provide a look into the real world of business. Students wear uniforms to class. gilbert a. dater High school (7-12) 2146 Ferguson Road, Westwood, % 513-363-7200 Gilbert A. Dater High School was a 2004 and 2005 Ohio School of Promise for across-the-board improvements on the Ohio Graduation Test. Dater’s small classes offer personalized teaching and add to Dater’s tradition of academic success. Special College Preparatory Program (SCPP) — This classical, six-year college preparatory program started in the mid-1970s and is one of only two such programs in CPS. Like its sister program at Walnut Hills High School, Dater’s SCPP offers a rigorous academic curriculum. Students must pass the SCPP test to enter this program. (Designed primarily for students entering at grade 7.) Standard College Preparatory Program — This program stresses college readiness and college admission. Students are prepared for college, vocational training and employment. (Designed primarily for students entering at grade 9.) The Virtual High School offers an alternative learning environment using an individualized, computer-assisted curriculum. The goal is to educate students to the district’s academic standards outside the traditional classroom. This program offers students the opportunity to recover missing academic credits. Students also can pursue Advanced Placement courses as well as post-secondary options through the University of Cincinnati. A child-development program is offered for students’ children, ages 1-2 years old. Walnut Hills High school (7-12) 3250 Victory Parkway, Walnut Hills, % 513-363-8400 Walnut Hills High School is nationally recognized for consistent academic excellence and is considered one of America’s top public high schools. In 2007, Walnut Hills was ranked 36th in Newsweek’s Top 100 Best High Schools. A classical, six-year college-preparatory school, Walnut Hills offers a rigorous advanced and accelerated curriculum, including 28 Advanced Placement courses — one of the largest selections in the nation. Walnut Hills has been recognized as a national model for diverse, high-quality schools that prepare students well for college. Walnut Hills’ students consistently score above the national mean on the SAT and ACT collegeentrance exams. Students must pass the Special College Preparatory Program (SCPP) test to enter. Hughes center (9-12) 2515 Clifton Avenue, University Heights, % 513-363-7500 Home to six programs, this is a team-based, college-preparatory school dedicated to the Paideia educational philosophy. All Hughes Center programs offer opportunities to earn college credits through the University of Cincinnati. Hughes Center was selected in 2004 and 2005 as a School of Promise by the Ohio Department of Education. Cincinnati Academy of Mathematics and Science (CAMAS) — With enriched science and mathematics experiences, students learn to find mathematics and science applications in everyday living. A hands-on approach helps students develop laboratory and critical-thinking skills. A rigorous college-prep curriculum, including a concentration in Biomedical or Engineering Science, is offered to all students. High School for the Communication Professions — Designed for students interested in careers in journalism and media — newspaper and magazine reporting, radio and television broadcasting, and advertising — this is an active, hands-on program that teaches skills in desktop publishing, public speaking, sales, writing, Web design, layout and design, and interviewing. High School for the Health Professions — Preparing students to enter higher education in therapeutic health-related fields — such as nursing, physical and occupational therapy, athletic training, pharmacy and medicine — this school blends academic and preprofessional courses with clinical internships. High School for Teaching and Technology — This program prepares students for study in various careers in education or any field. Students face the classroom from a teacher’s standpoint when paired with teachers around the city during jobshadowing and internships. Paideia (py-dee-a) High School — Offering an unique approach to active learning, this school follows the Paideia teaching method, which comes from the Greek for “the upbringing of a child.” In Paideia classrooms, teachers use three techniques: Didactic classroom instruction for increasing students’ factual recall; intellectual coaching in small groups to develop learning skills; and seminar discussions to strengthen critical-thinking skills. Zoo Academy — Housed in a new facility at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in Avondale, this program offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum that gives students hands-on experience at the zoo in preparation for careers in animal care, conservation or environmental studies. Ninth- and tenth-graders take classes with CAMAS students before moving as juniors into the Zoo Academy, where they spend two hours every school day working with zookeepers and horticulture staff maintaining the zoo’s animals and plants. Western Hills design technology High school (9-12) 2144 Ferguson Road, Westwood, % 513-363-8700 This pre-engineering program focuses on introducing students to engineering technologies using a project-based curriculum. Students put learning into practice by solving problems and working on design projects. Students rotate through different technology topics. Content is layered, so students learn on different levels, depending on interests and abilities. Coursework in upper grades is coordinated with beginning courses in engineering technology at colleges and universities, and students can earn college credits. Partnerships offer students chances to job-shadow and do internships. This school prepares students to pursue careers in such engineering areas as design, computer, mechanical, civil, electrical, chemical or aeronautical. Western Hills University High school (9-12) 2144 Ferguson Road, Westwood, % 513-363-8900 Selected as a School of Promise in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by the Ohio Department of Education, this school provides an intensive college-preparatory program with a “commitment to excellence — no excuses.” It is team-based, with teacher teams working with the same students for one year or more to improve student achievement. Entering ninth-graders become part of Project GRAD, a national schoolreform model that leads to college scholarships if students fulfill requirements by the end of senior year. A Summer Bridge program in June helps familiarize students with teachers and curriculum. December 5, 2007 Special Advertising Supplement Page 4 D How do I know what career to pursue? In today’s world, choosing a career is more difficult than ever, thanks to a constantly evolving workplace. In fact, it’s not just occupations that are changing. Studies show that most men and women can expect to change careers three or more times during their working lives. A GED or high school equivalency diploma can allow you to pursue success. If you’re under 19 years old, but are at least 16 years old, here’s what you’ll need to get started: • Application/age waiver filled out and notarized. If you’re under 18 years old, you’ll also need a parent/guardian signature on your application. • A fee waiver, earned by taking and passing a practice test given by a recognized GED training center, or by an adult education center OR a $55 money order or certified check made payable to Ohio Testing Services. • A Counselor’s Recommendation Form from the head counselor of the last high school you attended. • A copy of the transcript from the last school you attended. • A copy of the withdrawal from the last school you attended. Bring the above five documents to test administrator Jerry Moore, at the Education Center, 2651 Burnett Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219. If approved by the superintendent’s office, these documents will be sent to the state GED office in Columbus, and your authorization will be posted on the state’s Web site 7 to 10 days after it is received and processed. This authorization will remain valid for 120 days after it’s posted, and you must call a testing center during that period to make an appointment to take the test. on’t give up on your dreams just because you haven’t earned a high school diploma yet. When selecting a career, it is always important to keep your values in mind. Do you define a career as making lots of money, or finding a job that you enjoy? By defining your own values and expectations, you can weed out the types of jobs that are not for you. Also keep in mind the various work atmospheres that accompany each career field. Do you thrive working under deadlines, or do you prefer a more easygoing job? Do you like managing people or following instructions? Though work is still “work,” choosing a career you really love can make all the difference. Examine your skills and talents. What classes did you like in school? What do you read about when you have free time? For example, if you loved your English courses in high school, consider the benefits of teaching, writing, or communication. If you are more skilled with math, consider a financial or engineering field. Next, try making a list of careers you think are interesting or important and then do some research. Find out what the education requirements are and which schools specialize in those areas. It’s also beneficial to ask questions of working professionals who have a job that interests you. Talk to parents, teachers, and school counselors. These working individuals have multiple years of experience and quite possibly went through phases where they were unsure of which career path to take. Many schools also offer tests to determine which types of careers are best suited for you. Contact your GEARUP college access advisor for more information. Even when you clearly define your values and expectations, don’t be discouraged if you still aren’t exactly sure what career path you want to take. Experience, patience and determination will help you discover a job you love. the ohio graduation test: Why do we have to take the ogt? Everything you need to know about the test to graduate The graduating class of 2007 is the first class to have to pass the Ohio Graduation Test. The purpose of the Ohio Graduation Test is to ensure that students who receive a high school diploma demonstrate academic achievement. In other words, it shows you have learned at least at a tenth-grade level. The final test for seniors is scheduled for March 10-14. What if i complete my high school curriculum but still don’t pass the ogt? Students who complete their curriculum but do not pass the OGT will not graduate with their classmates. It is at the discretion of the school district whether students can participate in the graduation ceremony. It is possible to retake the test in July and be eligible to obtain a diploma. When do i take the ogt? What happens if i fail the first time? do exceptional and english-limited students need to pass the ogt? The OGT is first administered in spring of the sophomore year, and is available for those who did not pass to retake in the fall and spring of their junior and senior years. What will be on the test? Students whose Individual Education Plan (IEP) excuses them from the consequence of having to pass the OGT may be awarded a diploma. However, Federal law requires every student to take the OGT or an alternate assessment. Students who speak English as a second language must also achieve specified scores on the OGT to receive their diploma. The test has five sections: reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. There are approximately 35 multiple-choice questions and up to eight short answers. Students will have up to 2 hours on each section. How can i prepare for the ogt? How is the test fair? Ohio teachers, parents, and other members of Ohio educational staff developed the Ohio Graduation Test. It is not designed to trick you or keep you from graduating. It is simply meant to ensure that you are prepared for the world outside of high school, either in the workforce or in college. A Content Advisory Committee, which consists of parents and educators, is also in place to determine whether the test material is fair. Each year, the Ohio Department of Education releases test materials used during the preceding year. The test questions, as well as the answer key, can be found at www.ode. state.oh.us. The exact same questions will not appear again, but they provide a sample of the basic format and allow students the opportunity to see what types of problems they will see on the test. Practice tests are available on the Internet. See your GEARUP college access advisor for more information. isn’t there anything else i can do to graduate if i don’t pass? Graduating seniors may graduate and receive a diploma without passing all five sections if they meet the following criteria: • • • • Pass four of the five tests and have missed passing the fifth test by no more than 10 scale points. Have a 97 percent attendance rate all four years of high school with no expulsions. Have a grade point average of 2.5 out of 4.0 in the subject area missed, and have completed the curriculum for the subject. rate in the program. • Must have participated in any intervention programs offered by the school with a 97 percent attendance Obtain letters of recommendation from the high school principal and each teacher in the subject area not yet passed.