Brien McMahon High School 2013 Freshman Success Summer Academy

1. Brien McMahon High School 2013 Freshman Success Summer Academy Welcome to Brien McMahon High School and the Freshman Success Summer Academy. Students from Rotonand Ponus Ridge middle schools are invited to participate in a 5-week summer program, July 1 – August 2. There is no school on July 4 and July 5. This program is generously funded by the Carver Center and the Nellie Mae Education Foundation Grant. Research suggests that the most difficult transition point in education is from middle to high school. Navigating a larger environment, excelling in credit-bearing courses, meeting graduation requirements, and juggling competing priorities can be quite challenging. The Freshman Success Summer Academy will be the necessary bridge into high school. Studentsenrolling in the program will participate in the following courses: English, math, social studies/history, science, and study skills. They will also begin developing an individual student success plan using Naviance, and participate in House, the school’s advisory program. Students will take field trips to enhance team building and the academic program. Breakfast and lunch are provided for free each day. Advisory is an integral part of the student’s high school program. Its mission is to prepare students for life’s transitions, including career development and post-secondary opportunities, through meaningful connections. Advisory is necessary because it helps students and teachers make connections. Students will participate in a weekly advisory meeting throughout the summer program. To apply, students should complete and return the Registration Form, Emergency Form, Field Trip Permission Slip and other forms by June 24 (deadline extended). Applications should be returned to: Ms. Amaker Brien McMahon High School 300 Highland Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06584 or by fax 203-854-0444 Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify; contact Ms. Wood for additional information. Students must have a completed application on file before the start of the program. Acceptance notification will be delivered via email if an email address is provided. Space is limited, so apply early! Program Dates July 1 – August 2 Daily Schedule 8:30 – 9:00 Breakfast (free) 9:00 – 1:00 Academics 1:00 – 1:30 Lunch (free) 1:30 – 3:15 Activities 3:15 – 3:30 Dismissal Summer Academy Faculty Principal Mrs. Suzanne Brown Koroshetz  Summer Program Administrator Ms. Barbara Wood Instructors Ms. Karen Amaker Mr. Ed Grillo Mr. Ben Ingalls Mrs. Amanda McAndrew Ms. Sara Molinelli Mrs. Rebecca Pavia Since the summer program covers a great deal of material in a short period of time, punctuality and perfect attendance are expected. Students with other summer commitments should not register. Transportation will be provided to and from Brien McMahon High School. All school conduct codes for the regular school year are in effect during the summer program. Dismissal from the program based on these codes is the decision of the Summer Program Administrator.

2. Parents and accepted students will be invited to attend an information session, hosted by Principal Koroshetz, in July. Course Descriptions Words with Friends Through reading of the text "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens," by Sean Covey, students will orally discuss and reflect in journal format the ideas and concepts presented. Students will practice active reading strategies that will help them navigate and successfully manage the amount of required reading on the high school level. Math Matters This course will help students bridge the gap between Pre-Algebra and Algebra I. Math concepts that will be highlighted include computations, solving equations, and graphing. Students will practice the mathematical study skills necessary for success in high school. Science Sense Students will participate in hands-on activities to prepare for a high school science course. They will practice lab specific math skills, science inquiry, following lab activity directions independently, graphing data, while completing engaging scientific investigation. History’s Mysteries This course focuses on getting students excited and ready for 9th grade world history. Using academic sources, discussion, and group work, students will investigate exciting historical events. Students will practice research and presentation skills in preparation for 9th grade research projects. S.W.A.G. Skills (Study, Work, Achieve, Graduate) Featuring the essential learning strategies for becoming a better student, this course helps students learn how to prepare for class, develop textbook reading strategies, use effective note-taking techniques, strengthen their test-taking skills, and carry their skills forward. The Secret of My Success Using Naviance/Family Connection, students will begin developing an individualized student success plan to address their specific needs and interests. The plan will help students plan and achieve postsecondary educational and career goals.