120 likes | 228 Views
8 th GRADE AP/DC SHADOWING DAYS. Jane Jack Indiana Conference on Learning January 28, 2010. 8 th GRADE AP/DC SHADOWING DAYS. Selected 8 th graders meet at least one of the following criteria: prospective first generation college students qualify for free/reduced lunch minority
E N D
8th GRADE AP/DCSHADOWING DAYS Jane Jack Indiana Conference on Learning January 28, 2010
8th GRADE AP/DCSHADOWING DAYS Selected 8th graders meet at least one of the following criteria: • prospective first generation college students • qualify for free/reduced lunch • minority These are our underrepresented groups.
8th GRADE AP/DCSHADOWING DAYS • High school “buddies” are enrolled in at least one AP or DC course. • We try to use HS students who participated in the program as 8th graders. • We work with small groups, usually 15-20 8th graders per shadowing visit.
8th GRADE AP/DCSHADOWING DAYS When possible, we try to match SLC placements as well. For example, if the 8th grader is going to be in Q&I next year, we try to have him/her shadow a HS student who is currently in Q&I.
8th GRADE AP/DCSHADOWING DAYS • 8th graders spend approximately four (4) hours at the high school. • 8th graders attend three (3) classes with their HS “buddy”. • 8th graders attend a luncheon with their HS “buddy”. • During the luncheon, 8th graders receive information about the benefits of taking AP and/or DC courses from HS “buddies” and from AP Coordinator.
Implementation challenges • Initially, the middle school staff wanted to have only the “good” kids participate as a reward. • Initially, it was difficult to identify first generation students. • Initially, it was difficult to identify students who qualified for free/reduced lunch.
Has the strategy been successful? • 81% of this year’s “buddies” participated in this program as 8th graders. • Enrollment in AP and/or DC courses has increased. • Student survey data indicates that the program is successful.
2009 Student Survey Data • After attending the 8th Grade Shadowing Day, I am more informed of the opportunities I have in high school to challenge myself and become better prepared for college. 4.4 out of 5 • I feel this was a worthwhile experience and would encourage other students to attend if given the opportunity. 4.4 out of 5 • My “DC Buddy” was helpful and answered any questions I had about college credit classes at DCHS. 4.7 out of 5 • I plan on taking college credit courses while in high school. 4.3 out of 5
Documents available upon request: • Letter to 8th graders and their parents • Permission slip for 8th graders • Letter inviting HS students to serve as “buddies” • Confirmation notice for HS “buddies” • Powerpoint presentation used at luncheon
Jane Jack AP Coordinator, AAE Project Director, and Instructional Coach Decatur Central High School 5251 Kentucky Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46221 317-856-5288 Ext. 24001 jjack@msddecatur.k12.in.us