Friday, September 29, 2006
Best Buddies Florida
Best Buddies Florida - Best Buddies Florida: "Best Buddies Florida is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. Founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown and touched the hearts and lives of over 250,000 people this year.
In 1992, Best Buddies Florida was established. Currently Best Buddies Florida serves more then 7500 participants through six programs; Best Buddies Middle Schools, Best Buddies High Schools, Best Buddies Colleges, Best Buddies Citizens, Best Buddies Jobs and e-Buddies®. Best Buddies Florida has five offices throughout the state, which are located in Miami, Hallandale, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville.
Best Buddies Florida is very fortunate to have a group of dedicated community members serve on our local Advisory Boards in each of our areas. These members secure financial resources and provide support to our efforts in the state. If you are interested in serving on an Advisory Board for any of the local Best Buddies Florida offices, please contact Stephanie King at 407-898-0787 or e-mail her at StephanieKing@bestbuddies.org."
In 1992, Best Buddies Florida was established. Currently Best Buddies Florida serves more then 7500 participants through six programs; Best Buddies Middle Schools, Best Buddies High Schools, Best Buddies Colleges, Best Buddies Citizens, Best Buddies Jobs and e-Buddies®. Best Buddies Florida has five offices throughout the state, which are located in Miami, Hallandale, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville.
Best Buddies Florida is very fortunate to have a group of dedicated community members serve on our local Advisory Boards in each of our areas. These members secure financial resources and provide support to our efforts in the state. If you are interested in serving on an Advisory Board for any of the local Best Buddies Florida offices, please contact Stephanie King at 407-898-0787 or e-mail her at StephanieKing@bestbuddies.org."
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
FCAT Explorer & FOCUS Newsletter
ISSUE 1, Fall 2006 CONTENTS
- WHAT'S NEW WITH FCAT EXPLORER
- OPEN RESPONSE ITEMS AVAILABLE
- ENROLLMENT UPDATE
- USING THE TEACHER'S DESK
Welcome to the first FCAT Explorer/FOCUS newsletter. Whether you are a new or veteran user of FCAT Explorer and FOCUS, this quarterly publication will help you make the most of these Florida Department of Education resources.
At the start of the 2006-2007 school year, as with every new school year, we share your passion for helping students make great strides in the weeks to come. The tools and resources available on the FCAT Explorer <http://www.fcatexplorer.com> and FOCUS <http://focus.florida-achieves.com> Web sites can help your students achieve academic success.
READ MORE >> <http://www.fcatexplorer.com/support/newsletter/FCAT-FOCUS_Newsletter_Edition_1.pdf>
What's New in FCAT Explorer
This last year brought many new developments to the FCAT Explorer. The following list provides an overview of the latest Department of Education offerings.
Introducing FOCUS
The FOCUS Web site—focus.florida-achieves.com <http://focus.florida-achieves.com> —supports Florida’s Continuous Improvement Model. With mini assessments in reading and math, FOCUS provides teachers a quick check of student comprehension. The Web site offers two mini assessments for each focus in reading and each benchmark in math.
In addition to assessments, FOCUS includes tools to help teachers and administrators monitor student progress. An interactive calendar allows teachers and administrators to create assessment and instructional schedules. Additional features include reports and class management tools.
READ MORE >> <http://www.fcatexplorer.com/support/newsletter/FCAT-FOCUS_Newsletter_Edition_1.pdf>
OPEN RESPONSE ITEMS AVAILABLE
In addition to robust reports and content reviews, your Teacher’s Desk includes Open Response items for most grades.
Written to the Sunshine State Standards and based on the Test Item and Performance Task Specifications, these items require students to create written responses similar to those required on the FCAT. These items can be printed out and assigned as take-home work, or teachers can create transparencies for use in the classroom.
READ MORE >> <http://www.fcatexplorer.com/support/newsletter/FCAT-FOCUS_Newsletter_Edition_1.pdf>
OPEN ENROLLMENT
Enrollment for all Florida public school children, teachers, and administrators is almost complete. Currently, the Support Services Team has processed sign-in names and passwords for 66 of 67 school districts in Florida, including 2,220,930 students, 222,615 teachers, and 7,356 school administrators.
During the annual enrollment process, the FCAT Explorer Support Services Team works hard to quickly process new sign-in names and passwords for students and teachers. The list of Currently Enrolled Districts and School Administrators is available on the FCAT Explorer <http://www.fcatexplorer.com> and FOCUS <http://focus.florida-achieves.com> Web sites.
READ MORE >> <http://www.fcatexplorer.com/support/newsletter/FCAT-FOCUS_Newsletter_Edition_1.pdf>
USING THE FCAT EXPLORER TEACHER'S DESK
Did you know your Teacher’s Desk offers valuable tools that allow you to increase the benefits of the FCAT Explorer for your students? The following list gives you a quick review of what you can do from the Teacher’s Desk:
Class Roll Options
Put your students into one or more class rolls so you can look up and print their sign-in names and passwords, change student information, and track students’ progress as they practice in FCAT Explorer programs.
Run Reports
Student and Class Performance Reports allow you to monitor the progress of individuals or groups.
READ MORE >> <http://www.fcatexplorer.com/support/newsletter/FCAT-FOCUS_Newsletter_Edition_1.pdf>
------ End of Forwarded Message
Congratulations to the Winners of the ePEP Usage Awards
Monday, September 25, 2006
Music helps patients tune out test anxiety
"Free publication available to school counselors
Careers in Science: The National Academies’ Center for Education is offering free copies of the publication “Careers in Science and Engineering: A Student Planning Guide to Grad School and Beyond” to school districts. The publication offers guidance to students on planning careers, particularly careers in nonacademic settings, and discusses how to obtain the education and skills necessary to attain their career goals. Profiles of science and engineering professionals illustrate a variety of career paths. For more information about the publication, visit http://newton.nap.edu/catalog/5129.html. To request copies, contact Julie Schuck, research associate, at (202) 334-3379. "
------ Forwarded Message
From: The College Board <Collegeboard.12198263.49789.0@reply.collegeboard.com>
Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2006 17:00:26 -0400
To: <rdowns@tempest.coedu.usf.edu>
Subject: Do You Want to Offer SAT Preparation in Your School?
HELP <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.1346> | STORE <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.5086> | SITE SEARCH:
<http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.122>
Florida Partnership
Fall Workshops Help Teachers Plan SAT® Prep in Their Schools September 22, 2006
The College Board Florida Partnership is pleased to offer workshops that provide Florida public school teachers with the activities and materials they need to design a school-based SAT preparation course. Participants have the opportunity to customize strategies to motivate, prepare, and empower students at all levels of ability to achieve personal success on the SAT. Participants will learn:
about the SAT format and question types on the math, critical reading, and writing sections;
how to plan and conduct their preparation sessions according to student and class needs; and
how to effectively bring print and online SAT Readiness Program£ resources into the classroom.
During the second half of the workshop, math and English-language sessions will be given separately, to focus on the specific content areas.
Schedule
All sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 3:30 p.m. Although space is limited, seats are still available for each of the workshops.
Please note: The workshops are open to only Florida public school educators and fees have been paid on their behalf by the state of Florida. To attend, please download the SAT School-Based Workshops registration form <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.21453> (.pdf/54K) Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.879> . Latest version recommended. and fax it to (866) 549-6810. If you have questions about your registration, call (800) 787-7477, ext. 1.
SAT Preparation Workshops
September 25, 2006 Miami Marriott Dadeland
Miami, Florida
September 26, 2006 Safe Schools Center
Boca Raton, Florida
October 3, 2006 Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport
Orlando, Florida
October 4, 2006 Wyndham Jacksonville Riverwalk
Jacksonville, Florida
October 24, 2006 Ramada Conference Center
Tallahassee, Florida
CONTACT <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/communications000.html> | CAREERS <http://www.collegeboard.com/about/association/careers/opportunities.html> | ABOUT US <http://www.collegeboard.com/about/index.html> | PRIVACY <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/privacy001.html> | TERMS OF USE <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/copyright001.html> | PRESS <http://www.collegeboard.com/press/releases_main/0,,,00.html>
From: The College Board <Collegeboard.12198263.49789.0@reply.collegeboard.com>
Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2006 17:00:26 -0400
To: <rdowns@tempest.coedu.usf.edu>
Subject: Do You Want to Offer SAT Preparation in Your School?
HELP <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.1346> | STORE <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.5086> | SITE SEARCH:
<http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.122>
Florida Partnership
Fall Workshops Help Teachers Plan SAT® Prep in Their Schools September 22, 2006
The College Board Florida Partnership is pleased to offer workshops that provide Florida public school teachers with the activities and materials they need to design a school-based SAT preparation course. Participants have the opportunity to customize strategies to motivate, prepare, and empower students at all levels of ability to achieve personal success on the SAT. Participants will learn:
about the SAT format and question types on the math, critical reading, and writing sections;
how to plan and conduct their preparation sessions according to student and class needs; and
how to effectively bring print and online SAT Readiness Program£ resources into the classroom.
During the second half of the workshop, math and English-language sessions will be given separately, to focus on the specific content areas.
Schedule
All sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 3:30 p.m. Although space is limited, seats are still available for each of the workshops.
Please note: The workshops are open to only Florida public school educators and fees have been paid on their behalf by the state of Florida. To attend, please download the SAT School-Based Workshops registration form <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.21453> (.pdf/54K) Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49789.0.879> . Latest version recommended. and fax it to (866) 549-6810. If you have questions about your registration, call (800) 787-7477, ext. 1.
SAT Preparation Workshops
September 25, 2006 Miami Marriott Dadeland
Miami, Florida
September 26, 2006 Safe Schools Center
Boca Raton, Florida
October 3, 2006 Renaissance Orlando Hotel Airport
Orlando, Florida
October 4, 2006 Wyndham Jacksonville Riverwalk
Jacksonville, Florida
October 24, 2006 Ramada Conference Center
Tallahassee, Florida
CONTACT <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/communications000.html> | CAREERS <http://www.collegeboard.com/about/association/careers/opportunities.html> | ABOUT US <http://www.collegeboard.com/about/index.html> | PRIVACY <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/privacy001.html> | TERMS OF USE <http://www.collegeboard.com/html/copyright001.html> | PRESS <http://www.collegeboard.com/press/releases_main/0,,,00.html>
Friday, September 22, 2006
ASU Creates Entertainment/Technology Degree Program
A new course at Arizona State University (ASU) entitled "Entertainment and Technology" is the first step of a new program to grant an undergraduate certificate, and eventually a master's degree, in the new cross-discipline of entertainment and technology called EnterTech.
The degree program will be part of the film and media studies program in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The idea is to prepare young professionals to work in the technologically-changing world of Hollywood. An advisory board of two dozen Hollywood veterans -- mainly producers, lawyers and studio executives -- has signed on to help shape the curriculum and speak to students about the challenges facing the entertainment industry.
To read more, click here.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Teenage Parent Program Reporting Procedures and Dates
The Department of Education has issued the following memorandum regarding the Teenage Parent Program Reporting Procedures and Dates for Fiscal Year 2006-2007. The memorandum may be viewed at:
http://info.fldoe.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-3976/06_18memo.pdf
http://info.fldoe.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-3977/06_18att1.pdf
http://info.fldoe.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-3978/06_18att2.pdf
Saturday, September 16, 2006
From the College Board ... For Counselors
onboard Counselor Edition
No. 45
September 15, 2006
Net Tips from NOSCA
National Office for School Counselor Advocacy <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19544>
The College Board website offers test-preparation resources (in both English and Spanish) that are particularly helpful for parents. Consider sharing the complete articles or article excerpts in school newsletters or on your school's website.
Meet the Tests <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21333> includes information specifically written for parents/guardians on each College Board test program.
Meet the PSAT/NMSQT <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21334> ® provides details about the PSAT/NMSQT and tips for preparing, and introduces My College QuickStart, the College Board's free personalized college planning kit.
Information for counselors about the new My College QuickStart is online <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.17136> .
Counselors frequently address parent/guardian questions about the necessity of, validity of, or options for test-preparation sites and/or courses. Resources for those conversations include:
Coaching and the SAT I <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.10812> , an article by Donald Powers and Wayne Camara, is available as a PDF document.
The Long and Short of Test Prep <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21335> that offers preparation suggestions for both the long term and short term.
Handling Test Stress <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21336> , an article that offers tips for managing test anxiety.
The Official SAT Question of the Day£ Available in New Formats
There are two new resources from the College Board that you may find helpful. In addition to The Official SAT Question of the Day£ on collegeboard.com, the new wall calendarwith college planning tipsand box calendar offer students additional test preparation options. Free online answer explanations are also available. Learn more about the wall calendar <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21337> and the box calendar <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21338> online.
Forum 2006 Early Registration Is Still Open
Register by September 22 and save! College Board members who register <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.20014> by September 22 pay only $375; nonmember fees are $475. Group discounts are available.
SNAPSHOT
Four-year colleges rated their admission criteria in the recent College Board survey. Based on responses from 1,917 institutions, the following criteria are "very important":
School achievement 83%
Test scores 59%
Recommendation 19%
Essay 17%
Interview 14%
Activities 4%
Source: Annual Survey of Colleges of the College Board, 2005-06
UPDATE
STUDENTS & PARENTS
View the latest student newsletters:
Freshmen <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.15353>
Sophomores <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/SophNewsletter.html>
Juniors <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/JuniorNewsletter.html>
Seniors <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/SeniorNewsletter.html>
Please feel free to reproduce our student newsletters for educational purposes. We ask only that they not be modified or offered for sale, and that the copyright notice be retained exactly as written.
Main Story
Harvard to Eliminate Early Admission
On Tuesday, September 12, Harvard University announced that it is moving to a single application deadline of January 1. The change will apply to freshmen entering in September 2008. In making the announcement, Harvard interim President Derek Bok said the university hoped that doing away with early admission would "improve the process and make it simpler and fairer." The New York Times reported that many admissions deans and high school counselors "greeted Harvard's decision...with astonishment and delight." The article quoted Marilee Jones, dean of admissions at MIT, saying that the single deadline policy "has the capacity to change a lot of things in this business. It's bold enough for other schools to really reconsider what they're doing. I wish them so much luck in this." More information on the decision is available on the Harvard website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21339> . Hot Topics
SAT® Scores for the Class of 2006 Announced
The College Board announced SAT® scores for the class of 2006 on Tuesday, August 29. This is the first full graduating class to take the new version of the SAT, which includes a writing section. In making the announcement, Gaston Caperton, president of the College Board, said, "The addition of writing has made the SAT a better measure of the skills students need to succeed in college and later in life. We will continue to work with schools and colleges to encourage high standards and a greater focus on writing in the classroom." Females outscored males on the writing section, which consists of a multiple-choice portion and an essay. The average writing score for all was 497. Females scored an average of 502, 11 points higher than males, who scored an average of 491. A stronger female performance in writing was evident across every racial/ethnic group. More information about student performance, including state reports, can be found at the College Board Press Release website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21155> . Issues of Concern to College-Bound Students Highlighted in New Report
The 2006 State of College Admission Report published by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), based on U.S. Department of Education and the College Board data, is now available. Among the highlights:
More than three million students graduated from high school in the United States in 2005. Slightly more than 60 percent of them applied to and enrolled in postsecondary education, either two- or four-year institutions.
Seventy-three percent of colleges reported that the number of admission applications had increased from the previous year.
The average selectivity rate, or percent of applicants offered admission, at four-year colleges and universities in the United States is 70 percent. The average yield rate, or percent of admitted students who enroll in an institution, for four-year colleges and universities in the United States is 45 percent.
For electronic copies of this report, visit the NACAC website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.20050> .
Readers' Corner
The editors of onboard invite you to suggest your ideas for topics to cover in future editions, Counselors. We would like to be sure that we report the news and information you need and enjoy. Please send your comments and suggestionseven propose features that you'd like to seeto onboard@collegeboard.org.
The Latest From Us
SAT Score Delivery Dates Set
SAT score delivery dates <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21331> for the October 2006 through January 2007 SAT test dates are now available. Information about scores and score release dates <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.14090> are online.
We have also extended some of the regular registration deadlines to be certain that you and your students have the chance to view scores before the next available registration deadline. A complete list of registration deadlines <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21332> is also on the Web.
The New World of College Admissions
Coming soon: The New World of College Admissions in the fall issue of The College Board Review.
Demographic shifts, changing technology, public attitudes: All are altering how college admissions work, and changes in the profession will continue in coming decades. The Review features essays by experts like James H. Johnson of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, on how population trends are affecting higher education; Tally Hart of Ohio State University, on the need for a closer partnership between financial aid and admissions; and Rebecca Zwick of the University of California: Santa Barbara, on the future of testing. The College Board also interviews the editors behind U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Colleges"while Edward B. Fiske casts a wry look at the history of college rankings. The Review is distributed as a benefit of College Board membership. Nonmembers may subscribe online by going to the College Board Store <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.14652> .
Registration Open for Free Fall Counselor Workshops
The 2006 Fall Counselor Workshop season is under way. The workshops offer updates of College Board programs and services to help you to prepare your students for college access and success. You can search for workshops being held in your area and register online by visiting www.collegeboard.com/meetings <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.5475> . Search by date and/or state and be sure to select "Fall Counselor Workshop" from the "Choose a Type" drop-down menu.
Fall Counselor Workshops are conducted between Labor Day and the middle of October each year. The free workshops are generally held between 9 a.m. and 12 noon. Make your plans to join the College Board and your school counselor colleagues at an informative session in your area today.
2007-08 CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE® to Launch on October 1
The 2007-08 CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE® will offer students a new, customized registration process that is expected to make the application process better and easier for all students. However, the major focus has been to streamline the application for students from the lowest income families. Many students now will need to answer far fewer application questions.
The new PROFILE will also have additional support features. Each application question will be identified with a unique Help Code, and a customized pre-application worksheet that includes only the questions the student will be asked will be available to each applicant.
2006-07 PROFILE application fees will remain at the current rate$5 for registration and $18 for each school report. Fee waivers will continue to be available to qualified applicants and will cover the cost of registration and up to six school reports.
Shape the Future of Education at Forum 2006
Forum 2006 <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.1657> will be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California, from November 9 to 12, Veterans Day weekend. Make your plans to attend.
Of special interest to school counselors are sessions on a diverse range of topics from preparing high school students for the transition to higher education to establishing a culture of college success at your school.
Sample Topics of Interest to Counselors:
Today's Millennial Students: Implications for High School Counselors
Junior Seminar AKA College 101
Enhancing and Extending the Expertise of Community College Counselors
Success in Early Intervention: AVID, GEAR UP, and TRIO
The Headmaster and the College Counselor: An Essential Partnership
Promoting School Improvement Through Counselor Accountability Programs
We hope you will attend the Guidance and Admission Assembly meeting; the Forum's unique college fair, Dialogue & Dessert with Colleges; and presentations from prominent speakers from the fields of education, politics, arts, and mediaincluding the keynote address by University of Southern California President Dr. Steven B. Sample, a leader in interdisciplinary education.
For more information about the exciting events planned for Forum 2006 with session details and registration materials, please visit the Forum website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19633> .
The Bob Costas Grants for the Teaching of Writing: Call for Applications
The College Board Bob Costas Grants for the Teaching of Writing recognize exceptional teachers for the innovative methods they use to inspire and develop their students' writing skills. Six grants of $2,000, one per College Board region, will be awarded. Teachers of grades 6-12 from any discipline, in both public and nonpublic schools, are eligible for the grants. Projects could be carried out in school, through an after-school writing workshop, or during a summer program.
The application deadline is November 17, 2006. To learn more about the grants, read about the 2006 winners, or download an application, visit www.collegeboard.com/costasgrants <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.15253> .
ORA Personality Profiler® on MyRoad£: A Tool for Self-Discovery
MyRoad encourages students to learn more about themselves and use what they learn to research the educational and career opportunities that await them. On MyRoad <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19551> , they can complete a research-validated personality assessment that connects them to original articles on the careers and majors that spark their interest.
Events Calendar
November 9-12
Forum 2006 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego, California
December 7-8
Guidance and Admission Assembly Council
The College Board: Connecting Students to College Success
The College Board is a not-for-profit membership association whose mission is to connect students to college success and opportunity. Founded in 1900, the association is composed of more than 5,000 schools, colleges, universities, and other educational organizations. Each year, the College Board serves seven million students and their parents, 23,000 high schools, and 3,500 colleges through major programs and services in college admissions, guidance, assessment, financial aid, enrollment, and teaching and learning. Among its best-known programs are the SAT®, the PSAT/NMSQT®, and the Advanced Placement Program® (AP®). The College Board is committed to the principles of excellence and equity, and that commitment is embodied in all of its programs, services, activities, and concerns.
No. 45
September 15, 2006
Net Tips from NOSCA
National Office for School Counselor Advocacy <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19544>
The College Board website offers test-preparation resources (in both English and Spanish) that are particularly helpful for parents. Consider sharing the complete articles or article excerpts in school newsletters or on your school's website.
Meet the Tests <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21333> includes information specifically written for parents/guardians on each College Board test program.
Meet the PSAT/NMSQT <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21334> ® provides details about the PSAT/NMSQT and tips for preparing, and introduces My College QuickStart, the College Board's free personalized college planning kit.
Information for counselors about the new My College QuickStart is online <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.17136> .
Counselors frequently address parent/guardian questions about the necessity of, validity of, or options for test-preparation sites and/or courses. Resources for those conversations include:
Coaching and the SAT I <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.10812> , an article by Donald Powers and Wayne Camara, is available as a PDF document.
The Long and Short of Test Prep <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21335> that offers preparation suggestions for both the long term and short term.
Handling Test Stress <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21336> , an article that offers tips for managing test anxiety.
The Official SAT Question of the Day£ Available in New Formats
There are two new resources from the College Board that you may find helpful. In addition to The Official SAT Question of the Day£ on collegeboard.com, the new wall calendarwith college planning tipsand box calendar offer students additional test preparation options. Free online answer explanations are also available. Learn more about the wall calendar <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21337> and the box calendar <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21338> online.
Forum 2006 Early Registration Is Still Open
Register by September 22 and save! College Board members who register <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.20014> by September 22 pay only $375; nonmember fees are $475. Group discounts are available.
SNAPSHOT
Four-year colleges rated their admission criteria in the recent College Board survey. Based on responses from 1,917 institutions, the following criteria are "very important":
School achievement 83%
Test scores 59%
Recommendation 19%
Essay 17%
Interview 14%
Activities 4%
Source: Annual Survey of Colleges of the College Board, 2005-06
UPDATE
STUDENTS & PARENTS
View the latest student newsletters:
Freshmen <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.15353>
Sophomores <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/SophNewsletter.html>
Juniors <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/JuniorNewsletter.html>
Seniors <http://www.collegeboard.com/email/SeniorNewsletter.html>
Please feel free to reproduce our student newsletters for educational purposes. We ask only that they not be modified or offered for sale, and that the copyright notice be retained exactly as written.
Main Story
Harvard to Eliminate Early Admission
On Tuesday, September 12, Harvard University announced that it is moving to a single application deadline of January 1. The change will apply to freshmen entering in September 2008. In making the announcement, Harvard interim President Derek Bok said the university hoped that doing away with early admission would "improve the process and make it simpler and fairer." The New York Times reported that many admissions deans and high school counselors "greeted Harvard's decision...with astonishment and delight." The article quoted Marilee Jones, dean of admissions at MIT, saying that the single deadline policy "has the capacity to change a lot of things in this business. It's bold enough for other schools to really reconsider what they're doing. I wish them so much luck in this." More information on the decision is available on the Harvard website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21339> . Hot Topics
SAT® Scores for the Class of 2006 Announced
The College Board announced SAT® scores for the class of 2006 on Tuesday, August 29. This is the first full graduating class to take the new version of the SAT, which includes a writing section. In making the announcement, Gaston Caperton, president of the College Board, said, "The addition of writing has made the SAT a better measure of the skills students need to succeed in college and later in life. We will continue to work with schools and colleges to encourage high standards and a greater focus on writing in the classroom." Females outscored males on the writing section, which consists of a multiple-choice portion and an essay. The average writing score for all was 497. Females scored an average of 502, 11 points higher than males, who scored an average of 491. A stronger female performance in writing was evident across every racial/ethnic group. More information about student performance, including state reports, can be found at the College Board Press Release website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21155> . Issues of Concern to College-Bound Students Highlighted in New Report
The 2006 State of College Admission Report published by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), based on U.S. Department of Education and the College Board data, is now available. Among the highlights:
More than three million students graduated from high school in the United States in 2005. Slightly more than 60 percent of them applied to and enrolled in postsecondary education, either two- or four-year institutions.
Seventy-three percent of colleges reported that the number of admission applications had increased from the previous year.
The average selectivity rate, or percent of applicants offered admission, at four-year colleges and universities in the United States is 70 percent. The average yield rate, or percent of admitted students who enroll in an institution, for four-year colleges and universities in the United States is 45 percent.
For electronic copies of this report, visit the NACAC website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.20050> .
Readers' Corner
The editors of onboard invite you to suggest your ideas for topics to cover in future editions, Counselors. We would like to be sure that we report the news and information you need and enjoy. Please send your comments and suggestionseven propose features that you'd like to seeto onboard@collegeboard.org.
The Latest From Us
SAT Score Delivery Dates Set
SAT score delivery dates <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21331> for the October 2006 through January 2007 SAT test dates are now available. Information about scores and score release dates <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.14090> are online.
We have also extended some of the regular registration deadlines to be certain that you and your students have the chance to view scores before the next available registration deadline. A complete list of registration deadlines <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.21332> is also on the Web.
The New World of College Admissions
Coming soon: The New World of College Admissions in the fall issue of The College Board Review.
Demographic shifts, changing technology, public attitudes: All are altering how college admissions work, and changes in the profession will continue in coming decades. The Review features essays by experts like James H. Johnson of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, on how population trends are affecting higher education; Tally Hart of Ohio State University, on the need for a closer partnership between financial aid and admissions; and Rebecca Zwick of the University of California: Santa Barbara, on the future of testing. The College Board also interviews the editors behind U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Colleges"while Edward B. Fiske casts a wry look at the history of college rankings. The Review is distributed as a benefit of College Board membership. Nonmembers may subscribe online by going to the College Board Store <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.14652> .
Registration Open for Free Fall Counselor Workshops
The 2006 Fall Counselor Workshop season is under way. The workshops offer updates of College Board programs and services to help you to prepare your students for college access and success. You can search for workshops being held in your area and register online by visiting www.collegeboard.com/meetings <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.5475> . Search by date and/or state and be sure to select "Fall Counselor Workshop" from the "Choose a Type" drop-down menu.
Fall Counselor Workshops are conducted between Labor Day and the middle of October each year. The free workshops are generally held between 9 a.m. and 12 noon. Make your plans to join the College Board and your school counselor colleagues at an informative session in your area today.
2007-08 CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE® to Launch on October 1
The 2007-08 CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE® will offer students a new, customized registration process that is expected to make the application process better and easier for all students. However, the major focus has been to streamline the application for students from the lowest income families. Many students now will need to answer far fewer application questions.
The new PROFILE will also have additional support features. Each application question will be identified with a unique Help Code, and a customized pre-application worksheet that includes only the questions the student will be asked will be available to each applicant.
2006-07 PROFILE application fees will remain at the current rate$5 for registration and $18 for each school report. Fee waivers will continue to be available to qualified applicants and will cover the cost of registration and up to six school reports.
Shape the Future of Education at Forum 2006
Forum 2006 <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.1657> will be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California, from November 9 to 12, Veterans Day weekend. Make your plans to attend.
Of special interest to school counselors are sessions on a diverse range of topics from preparing high school students for the transition to higher education to establishing a culture of college success at your school.
Sample Topics of Interest to Counselors:
Today's Millennial Students: Implications for High School Counselors
Junior Seminar AKA College 101
Enhancing and Extending the Expertise of Community College Counselors
Success in Early Intervention: AVID, GEAR UP, and TRIO
The Headmaster and the College Counselor: An Essential Partnership
Promoting School Improvement Through Counselor Accountability Programs
We hope you will attend the Guidance and Admission Assembly meeting; the Forum's unique college fair, Dialogue & Dessert with Colleges; and presentations from prominent speakers from the fields of education, politics, arts, and mediaincluding the keynote address by University of Southern California President Dr. Steven B. Sample, a leader in interdisciplinary education.
For more information about the exciting events planned for Forum 2006 with session details and registration materials, please visit the Forum website <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19633> .
The Bob Costas Grants for the Teaching of Writing: Call for Applications
The College Board Bob Costas Grants for the Teaching of Writing recognize exceptional teachers for the innovative methods they use to inspire and develop their students' writing skills. Six grants of $2,000, one per College Board region, will be awarded. Teachers of grades 6-12 from any discipline, in both public and nonpublic schools, are eligible for the grants. Projects could be carried out in school, through an after-school writing workshop, or during a summer program.
The application deadline is November 17, 2006. To learn more about the grants, read about the 2006 winners, or download an application, visit www.collegeboard.com/costasgrants <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.15253> .
ORA Personality Profiler® on MyRoad£: A Tool for Self-Discovery
MyRoad encourages students to learn more about themselves and use what they learn to research the educational and career opportunities that await them. On MyRoad <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.49360.0.19551> , they can complete a research-validated personality assessment that connects them to original articles on the careers and majors that spark their interest.
Events Calendar
November 9-12
Forum 2006 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego, California
December 7-8
Guidance and Admission Assembly Council
The College Board: Connecting Students to College Success
The College Board is a not-for-profit membership association whose mission is to connect students to college success and opportunity. Founded in 1900, the association is composed of more than 5,000 schools, colleges, universities, and other educational organizations. Each year, the College Board serves seven million students and their parents, 23,000 high schools, and 3,500 colleges through major programs and services in college admissions, guidance, assessment, financial aid, enrollment, and teaching and learning. Among its best-known programs are the SAT®, the PSAT/NMSQT®, and the Advanced Placement Program® (AP®). The College Board is committed to the principles of excellence and equity, and that commitment is embodied in all of its programs, services, activities, and concerns.
Friday, September 15, 2006
CNN Special Announcement - Quest for Extreme Brain Power
 | |
| S u p p o r t i n g O u r N a t i o n ' s B r i g h t e s t Y o u n g M i n d s. | |
The Davidson Institute for Talent Development You are currently subscribed to enews as: rsabella@fgcu.edu.
|
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Pretexting
Pretexting: Your Personal Information Revealed Fact sheet for consumers about pretexting, "the practice of getting your personal information under false pretenses," in which a "pretexter" might gain information by claiming he is from a survey firm, and then use that information to call the consumer's financial institution. Under the federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act such activity is illegal. Includes material about protecting yourself and what to do if you think you are a victim. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
URL: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/pretext.htm
Character Education
Character Education: Character education looks at how families, schools, and related social institutions support the positive character development of children and adults. This review focuses on programs designed for use in elementary, middle, or high schools with attention to student outcomes related to positive character development, prosocial behavior, and academic performance. More information about the Character Education topic is available at http://www.whatworks.ed.gov/Topic.asp?tid=12&ReturnPage=default.asp.
CNN.com - Report: One in five children will become obese - Sep 13, 2006
CNN.com - Report: One in five children will become obese - Sep 13, 2006: "Report: One in five children will become obese
POSTED: 6:18 p.m. EDT, September 13, 2006"
POSTED: 6:18 p.m. EDT, September 13, 2006"
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
ABC News: 'Primetime'
ABC News: 'Primetime'
Watch "Primetime" on Thursday, Sept. 14, at 10 p.m. ET for a special hour on cyberbullying hosted by Diane Sawyer.
Watch "Primetime" on Thursday, Sept. 14, at 10 p.m. ET for a special hour on cyberbullying hosted by Diane Sawyer.
FCA/FSCA Annual Convention
FCA/FSCA Annual Convention
November 16-18, 2006
The Florida Hotel and Conference Center
Orlando, Florida
Once again this fall the annual FCA/FSCA convention (the 57th) will be held in Orlando at The Florida Hotel and Conference Center, adjacent to the Florida Mall. The convention begins on Thursday, November 16 with the pre-convention workshops and breakout sessions. Our opening address will be Thursday night at 8:00. We are pleased to present Margaret "Peggy" Land as our kick-off speaker at the opening session. She is a seasoned educator and a keen observer of human nature who utilizes wit, personal experiences, and story telling to help individuals understand and reach for success. The Keynote speaker on Friday is Ken Green, a dedicated advocate who inspires those who hear him to work for equal access. This year's convention promises to provide opportunities for professional and personal growth with over 50 individual sessions, 6 Pre-convention and 3 Post-convention workshops. And of course, the infamous and entertaining Counselor Idol will provide an opportunity for networking and fun for all. Workshops include Cultural Competencies, the Student Success Skills Program (both classroom and group), and even a 21st century topic, the Wild, Wild Internet and Cyber Bullying.
Putting on a convention of this caliber requires extensive assistance in the form of on-site volunteers. If you would like to help by manning the registration desk, providing assistance to our presenters by facilitating sessions, or nurturing your creative side assisting with decorations for any of the events, please contact Liz Thompson at Elizabeth.Thompson@marion.k12.fl.us
Brochures with convention registration forms are in the mail. Convention registration is $95 for members, with on-site registration available for $125 for members. Space in the Pre-and Post-convention workshops is limited, so be sure to register early. There is an October 20 deadline for lodging at the convention hotel at the guaranteed rate of $99.00 plus applicable taxes. Contact The Florida Hotel direct at 800-588-4656 to book your rooms.
I look forward to seeing you in Orlando in November!
Monday, September 11, 2006
Effective communication with counselors at school can make life a lot easier for students
from http://www.toacorn.com/news/2006/0831/Schools/058.html
A new school year can bring a host of challenges, but recent research shows that a school counselor's involvement in a student's life can make a difference.
The school counselor's role is to act as the first line of contact for parents and students for assistance in academic, social or personal development.
However, a survey by the American School Counselor Association shows that more than one-third of parents report having little or no contact with their child's school counselor during the previous school year.
With students heading back to school across the country, the association is encouraging parents to proactively communicate with their child's school counselor at least three times a year to guide their child's success.
"By communicating with one another at the beginning, middle and end of the school year, parents and counselors can have a definite impact on a child's potential," said Richard Wong, the association's executive director. "Strong in-school counsel
ing programs contribute to overall student success. Regular communications between parents and counselors can help a child tremendously," said Rich Lapan, Ph.D., professor of the department of educational, school and counseling psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
The survey measured the frequency with which the parents initiated contact with the counselor. Almost a quarter (24 percent) of surveyed parents reported initiating no contact with their child's school counselor during the previous school year and 13 percent said they initiated only one contact during the same period.
In an effort to help busy parents communicate more effectively with their child's school counselor, the association is offering four tips to improve parentcounselor dialogue: +Understand the expertise and responsibilities of your child's school counselor. +Meet or contact your child's counselor at least three times during the school year. +Discuss your child's challenges and concerns with the school counselor. +Learn about your child's school and social connections from the school counselor. +Work with the school counselor to identify resources and find solutions to problems.
Parents can visit www.SchoolCounselor.org online to learn more about the various roles and services of school counselors and how to work with them to help their children achieve success.
This story provided by StatePoint Media.
Friday, September 08, 2006
ASCA & The National Insitute on Drug Abuse
------ Forwarded Message
From: Kellyn Hickey <khickey@iqsolutions.com>
Date: Fri, 8 Sep 2006 14:01:41 -0400
Conversation: ASCA & The National Insitute on Drug Abuse
Subject: ASCA & The National Insitute on Drug Abuse
Dear School Counselor,
I'm writing to you on behalf of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health, in the Department of Health and Human Services. NIDA is the lead Federal agency for research on drug abuse and addiction and works to prevent substance abuse among our Nation's youth.
As another school year begins and you continue your work to build healthy, strong schools, please remember that NIDA is here to serve as a resource in your drug prevention campaign. To that effort, NIDA has created the NIDA Goes Back to School campaign for children, teens, and the adults who influence them. The campaign is a source for free science-based publications and teaching materials that emphasize the consequences of drug abuse on the brain and the body.
You may find our materials beneficial and useful. If you are interested in learning more about our campaign or ordering these FREE materials, please visit www.BacktoSchool.drugabuse.gov. You can also place larger orders by calling (800) 729-6686.
Thank you,
Kellyn Hickey
Health Communications Specialist
IQ Solutions
11300 Rockville Pike, Suite 901
Rockville, MD 20852
From: Kellyn Hickey <khickey@iqsolutions.com>
Date: Fri, 8 Sep 2006 14:01:41 -0400
Conversation: ASCA & The National Insitute on Drug Abuse
Subject: ASCA & The National Insitute on Drug Abuse
Dear School Counselor,
I'm writing to you on behalf of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health, in the Department of Health and Human Services. NIDA is the lead Federal agency for research on drug abuse and addiction and works to prevent substance abuse among our Nation's youth.
As another school year begins and you continue your work to build healthy, strong schools, please remember that NIDA is here to serve as a resource in your drug prevention campaign. To that effort, NIDA has created the NIDA Goes Back to School campaign for children, teens, and the adults who influence them. The campaign is a source for free science-based publications and teaching materials that emphasize the consequences of drug abuse on the brain and the body.
You may find our materials beneficial and useful. If you are interested in learning more about our campaign or ordering these FREE materials, please visit www.BacktoSchool.drugabuse.gov. You can also place larger orders by calling (800) 729-6686.
Thank you,
Kellyn Hickey
Health Communications Specialist
IQ Solutions
11300 Rockville Pike, Suite 901
Rockville, MD 20852
Deaf Education Information Center from the Clerc Center
Deaf Education Information Center from the Clerc Center
http://clerccenter.gallaudet.edu/
Gallaudet University is the preeminent school for the deaf in the United States, so it makes sense that the Laurent Clerc National Education Center is housed on their campus. The Clerc Center has also been given a mandate from Congress “to develop, evaluate, and disseminate innovative curricula, instructional techniques and strategies, and materials” specifically for deaf and hard of hearing children and youth. From their homepage, visitors seeking more information about the deaf and hard of hearing will want to glance over the topical areas here, which include those that provide basic information about deafness and the development of technologies designed to assist the deaf and hard of hearing. The section that most visitors will want to look over is the “Information on Deafness” area, which features fact sheets and links to external resources that deal with assistive hearing aids, sign language, the mental health of the deaf, and teachers who work with the deaf.
NEW VIDEO EDUCATES STUDENTS ON ILLEGAL FILE SHARING
The Recording Industry Association of America has developed a short video that can be used to educate students about the consequences of illegal file sharing. Preview the video or order a free DVD at http://www.campusdownloading.com
View additional resources on file sharing at http://www.educause.edu/Browse/645?PARENT_ID=608
Trends in College Costs and Student Aid
On October 24, the College Board will release the annual Trends in Higher Education Series, including Trends in College Pricing and Trends in Student Aid. A press conference will be held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, followed by a briefing on Capitol Hill. The reports will be available online at www.collegeboard.com/trends.
FINE September Announcement: Professional Development, Early Childhood Education, and More
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
WHAT'S NEW AT FINE - September 2006
Monthly news and resources from
FINE (Family Involvement Network of Educators)
www.finenetwork.org
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Professional Development Institute: Closing the Achievement Gap
From November 9-11, Harvard Family Research Project will present Closing the Achievement Gap: Linking Families, Schools, and Communities at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). Designed to give school, district, and community leaders strategies for tackling the achievement gap and fostering learning for all children, the institute will feature our new complementary learning approach -- a comprehensive model that fosters partnerships between families, schools, and other nonschool supports. Find out more about the institute and register at the link above or by calling HGSE Programs in Professional Education at 1-800-545-1849.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/resources/conference/index.html#aera2006
Research Brief: Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education
Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education, the first brief in our new evidence-based series, Family Involvement Makes a Difference, was announced to FINE before the summer break and is being well received by many in the field. This brief synthesizes the latest research on how family involvement contributes to young children's learning and development. Written for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, it showcases ideas that you can use right away in your own work to strengthen policy and practice. Upcoming FINE announcements will bring you two more in this series -- one on family involvement in elementary school and another on family involvement in middle and high school.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/resources/research/earlychildhood.html
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW FROM HARVARD FAMILY RESEARCH PROJECT
Study of Predictors of Participation in Out-of-School Time Activities
We invite you to see new findings from our out-of-school time study, including findings on the relationship between parenting and youth outcomes.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/ost_findings.html
Critical Issues in Adolescent Participation in Out-of-School Time Activities
We organized this symposium at the Society for Research on Adolescence meeting this March. This symposium featured findings from several studies and highlighted family socioeconomic and neighborhood conditions that predict participation in out-of-school time activities.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/afterschool/conference/index.html
After School Evaluation Symposium
Over 100 researchers, evaluators, policymakers, and practitioners in Washington, DC, attended this symposium, which we convened last September with support from the C. S. Mott Foundation. The goal was to bring together the perspectives of diverse stakeholders to inspire new ideas and foster stronger links between research, practice, and policy. Now you can read presentations and summaries at the link below.
www.northwestern.edu/ipr/abcd/kelloggabcd.pdf
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
POLICY
Strategy Spotlights
The Institute for Youth, Education, and Families (YEF) of the National League of Cities (NLC) has developed a series of documents highlighting action steps for city leaders to take on behalf of young children. The Strategy Spotlights focus on a range of topics including "Supporting Parents of Young Children."
www.nlc.org/iyef/program_areas/early_childhood_development/4619.cfm#Spotlights
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
AUDIO CLIPS
In Focus: Family Involvement
You can listen to experts discuss the important roles parents play in a young child's development, both in the classroom and at home, in this Family Involvement National Conference Call hosted last April by Pre-K Now. You can also learn about ways that pre-K programs can involve families of diverse backgrounds in the learning process.
www.preknow.org/advocate/confcalls/familyinvolvement.cfm?WT.mc_ID=NatCall0406
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
RECENT REPORTS
The Family Environment and Adolescent Well-being: Exposure to Positive and Negative Family Influences
Child Trends and the National Adolescent Health Information Center show us in this report how various aspects of parenting shape the lives of youth.
www.childtrends.org/Files/FamilyEnvironmentRB.pdf
Increasing Family and Parent Engagement in After-School
The After School Corporation outlines 15 examples of how site coordinators and staff are successfully engaging parents in their after school programs. Their report also contains sample materials that sites can use to improve parent involvement.
www.tascorp.org/publications/catalog/parentengagement/ParentEngagementGuide2006.pdf
Examining the Meaning of Accountability: Reframing the Construct
Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning highlights what parents and other community members think "education accountability" means.
www.mcrel.org/PDF/AssessmentAccountabilityDataUse/4002IR_Examining_Accountability.pdf
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
UPCOMING EVENTS
Many Voices, Common Principles: The Power to Transform
Educators, students, parents and other leading thinkers will come together in Chicago from November 2-4 in a conference organized by the Coalition of Essential Schools to discuss what works in transforming schools into high-achieving and equitable places of learning connected to their communities. www.essentialschools.org/pub/ces_docs/fforum/fforum.html
Anatomy of Success: Real Strategies for Closing Gaps and Raising Achievement
Education Trust's annual conference will be held in Washington, DC, from November 3-5 and will focus on closing the achievement gap. The conference will provide practical information and tools for those who want to set up a local process for reaching agreement about standards for student work, build a broader infrastructure for professional development, and engage their communities in pre-K-16.
www2.edtrust.org/EdTrust/Conferences+and+Meetings/nationalconfpage.htm
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
CONTACT US
Do you have a problem with the website or questions and comments concerning our work? Send an email to fine@gse.harvard.edu.
Enjoy!
FINE - Family Involvement Network of Educators
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Published by Harvard Family Research Project
All contents © 2006 President and Fellows of Harvard College
FINE (Family Involvement Network of Educators)
Harvard Family Research Project
Harvard Graduate School of Education
3 Garden Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-9108
Fax: 617-495-8594
Email: fine@gse.harvard.edu
www.finenetwork.org
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
If you have a colleague who would also be interested in FINE, they can sign up at www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/joinfine.html.
WHAT'S NEW AT FINE - September 2006
Monthly news and resources from
FINE (Family Involvement Network of Educators)
www.finenetwork.org
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Professional Development Institute: Closing the Achievement Gap
From November 9-11, Harvard Family Research Project will present Closing the Achievement Gap: Linking Families, Schools, and Communities at the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). Designed to give school, district, and community leaders strategies for tackling the achievement gap and fostering learning for all children, the institute will feature our new complementary learning approach -- a comprehensive model that fosters partnerships between families, schools, and other nonschool supports. Find out more about the institute and register at the link above or by calling HGSE Programs in Professional Education at 1-800-545-1849.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/resources/conference/index.html#aera2006
Research Brief: Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education
Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education, the first brief in our new evidence-based series, Family Involvement Makes a Difference, was announced to FINE before the summer break and is being well received by many in the field. This brief synthesizes the latest research on how family involvement contributes to young children's learning and development. Written for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, it showcases ideas that you can use right away in your own work to strengthen policy and practice. Upcoming FINE announcements will bring you two more in this series -- one on family involvement in elementary school and another on family involvement in middle and high school.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/resources/research/earlychildhood.html
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW FROM HARVARD FAMILY RESEARCH PROJECT
Study of Predictors of Participation in Out-of-School Time Activities
We invite you to see new findings from our out-of-school time study, including findings on the relationship between parenting and youth outcomes.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/ost_findings.html
Critical Issues in Adolescent Participation in Out-of-School Time Activities
We organized this symposium at the Society for Research on Adolescence meeting this March. This symposium featured findings from several studies and highlighted family socioeconomic and neighborhood conditions that predict participation in out-of-school time activities.
www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/afterschool/conference/index.html
After School Evaluation Symposium
Over 100 researchers, evaluators, policymakers, and practitioners in Washington, DC, attended this symposium, which we convened last September with support from the C. S. Mott Foundation. The goal was to bring together the perspectives of diverse stakeholders to inspire new ideas and foster stronger links between research, practice, and policy. Now you can read presentations and summaries at the link below.
www.northwestern.edu/ipr/abcd/kelloggabcd.pdf
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
POLICY
Strategy Spotlights
The Institute for Youth, Education, and Families (YEF) of the National League of Cities (NLC) has developed a series of documents highlighting action steps for city leaders to take on behalf of young children. The Strategy Spotlights focus on a range of topics including "Supporting Parents of Young Children."
www.nlc.org/iyef/program_areas/early_childhood_development/4619.cfm#Spotlights
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
AUDIO CLIPS
In Focus: Family Involvement
You can listen to experts discuss the important roles parents play in a young child's development, both in the classroom and at home, in this Family Involvement National Conference Call hosted last April by Pre-K Now. You can also learn about ways that pre-K programs can involve families of diverse backgrounds in the learning process.
www.preknow.org/advocate/confcalls/familyinvolvement.cfm?WT.mc_ID=NatCall0406
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
RECENT REPORTS
The Family Environment and Adolescent Well-being: Exposure to Positive and Negative Family Influences
Child Trends and the National Adolescent Health Information Center show us in this report how various aspects of parenting shape the lives of youth.
www.childtrends.org/Files/FamilyEnvironmentRB.pdf
Increasing Family and Parent Engagement in After-School
The After School Corporation outlines 15 examples of how site coordinators and staff are successfully engaging parents in their after school programs. Their report also contains sample materials that sites can use to improve parent involvement.
www.tascorp.org/publications/catalog/parentengagement/ParentEngagementGuide2006.pdf
Examining the Meaning of Accountability: Reframing the Construct
Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning highlights what parents and other community members think "education accountability" means.
www.mcrel.org/PDF/AssessmentAccountabilityDataUse/4002IR_Examining_Accountability.pdf
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
UPCOMING EVENTS
Many Voices, Common Principles: The Power to Transform
Educators, students, parents and other leading thinkers will come together in Chicago from November 2-4 in a conference organized by the Coalition of Essential Schools to discuss what works in transforming schools into high-achieving and equitable places of learning connected to their communities. www.essentialschools.org/pub/ces_docs/fforum/fforum.html
Anatomy of Success: Real Strategies for Closing Gaps and Raising Achievement
Education Trust's annual conference will be held in Washington, DC, from November 3-5 and will focus on closing the achievement gap. The conference will provide practical information and tools for those who want to set up a local process for reaching agreement about standards for student work, build a broader infrastructure for professional development, and engage their communities in pre-K-16.
www2.edtrust.org/EdTrust/Conferences+and+Meetings/nationalconfpage.htm
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
CONTACT US
Do you have a problem with the website or questions and comments concerning our work? Send an email to fine@gse.harvard.edu.
Enjoy!
FINE - Family Involvement Network of Educators
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Published by Harvard Family Research Project
All contents © 2006 President and Fellows of Harvard College
FINE (Family Involvement Network of Educators)
Harvard Family Research Project
Harvard Graduate School of Education
3 Garden Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-9108
Fax: 617-495-8594
Email: fine@gse.harvard.edu
www.finenetwork.org
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
If you have a colleague who would also be interested in FINE, they can sign up at www.gse.harvard.edu/hfrp/projects/fine/joinfine.html.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Feelings matter less to teenagers
Teenagers take less account than adults of people’s feelings and, often, even fail to think about their own, according to a UCL neuroscientist. The results, presented at the BA Festival of Science today, show that teenagers hardly use the area of the brain that is involved in thinking about other people’s emotions and thoughts, when considering a course of action. >>> More
Kids Have Strokes
Site for an infant and childhood stroke awareness campaign sponsored by the Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA). Features "information on prenatal stroke, infant stroke, perinatal stroke, neonatal stroke, in utero stroke, fetal stroke, stroke in children, and young adult stroke." Includes material about symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment, research, and support groups.
URL: http://www.pediatricstroke.org
Monday, September 04, 2006
Prevention programs for young rural teens can reduce methamphetamine abuse years later
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Game On Ultimate Wellness
The Department of Education has issued the following memorandum regarding the Game On Ultimate Wellness. The memorandum may be viewed at:
http://info.fldoe.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-3935/gameon_memo.pdf
College Readiness. College Success
College Readiness. College Success.
Each fall ACT's Florida Consultants conduct 14 educator workshops across the state. A central focus of these workshops is helping teachers, counselors, and other educators improve their students' college readiness. The workshops also provide updates on ACT programs, as well as a review of ACT results for the class of 2006 in FL.
General Information:
*There is no charge for ACT's Educator workshops.
*These half-day workshops run from 9 a.m. to noon.
*All registered attendees will receive a copy of the 2006 ACT Educator Resource Manual.
Topics of Discussion
*Improving your student’s readiness for college.
*Does college readiness equal workforce success?
*The importance of a rigorous core curriculum for all students.
*Using the ACT College Readiness Benchmark Scores.
*ACT results for Florida’s 2006 graduates.
*Update on PLAN test funding by Florida’s state legislature and PLAN data use for student success
*Improving your students' ACT scores.
*What's new with the ACT and other ACT programs, services, and research.
Who Should Attend
Outreach Coordinators, Counselors, Advisors, Principals, Superintendents, Counseling Directors, Curriculum Directors, Department Chairs, Test Supervisors
How to Register:
ACT's Educator Workshop registration can now be completed on-line. Visit: www.act.org/ew to find out more and to register.
Florida Workshop Schedule:
Pensacola, University of West Florida - 9/12/2006
Panama City, Gulf Coast Community College- 9/13/2006
Lakeland, Florida Southern College- 9/15/2006
Miami, Florida International University- 9/18/2006
Jacksonville, University of North Florida- 9/19/2006
West Palm Beach, Northwood University- 9/27/2006
Ft. Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University- 9/28/2006
Tallahassee, Florida State University- 10/3/2006
Orlando, University of Central Florida- 10/4/2006
Gainesville, Santa Fe Community College- 10/4/2006
St. Petersburg, USF-St. Petersburg Campus- 10/10/2006
Tampa, University of South Florida- 10/11/2006
Sarasota, New College of Florida-10/12/2006
Ft. Myers, Florida Gulf Cost University- 10/13/2006
Each fall ACT's Florida Consultants conduct 14 educator workshops across the state. A central focus of these workshops is helping teachers, counselors, and other educators improve their students' college readiness. The workshops also provide updates on ACT programs, as well as a review of ACT results for the class of 2006 in FL.
General Information:
*There is no charge for ACT's Educator workshops.
*These half-day workshops run from 9 a.m. to noon.
*All registered attendees will receive a copy of the 2006 ACT Educator Resource Manual.
Topics of Discussion
*Improving your student’s readiness for college.
*Does college readiness equal workforce success?
*The importance of a rigorous core curriculum for all students.
*Using the ACT College Readiness Benchmark Scores.
*ACT results for Florida’s 2006 graduates.
*Update on PLAN test funding by Florida’s state legislature and PLAN data use for student success
*Improving your students' ACT scores.
*What's new with the ACT and other ACT programs, services, and research.
Who Should Attend
Outreach Coordinators, Counselors, Advisors, Principals, Superintendents, Counseling Directors, Curriculum Directors, Department Chairs, Test Supervisors
How to Register:
ACT's Educator Workshop registration can now be completed on-line. Visit: www.act.org/ew to find out more and to register.
Florida Workshop Schedule:
Pensacola, University of West Florida - 9/12/2006
Panama City, Gulf Coast Community College- 9/13/2006
Lakeland, Florida Southern College- 9/15/2006
Miami, Florida International University- 9/18/2006
Jacksonville, University of North Florida- 9/19/2006
West Palm Beach, Northwood University- 9/27/2006
Ft. Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University- 9/28/2006
Tallahassee, Florida State University- 10/3/2006
Orlando, University of Central Florida- 10/4/2006
Gainesville, Santa Fe Community College- 10/4/2006
St. Petersburg, USF-St. Petersburg Campus- 10/10/2006
Tampa, University of South Florida- 10/11/2006
Sarasota, New College of Florida-10/12/2006
Ft. Myers, Florida Gulf Cost University- 10/13/2006
2006 Fall Counselor Workshops
Southern Regional Office
2006 Fall Counselor Workshops September 1, 2006
Dear Colleague: The Southern Regional Office of the College Board is pleased to announce the 2006 Fall Counselor Workshop schedule. This early announcement and our online registration process will help avoid the inevitable September rush! Online registration is easier, less time consuming, and provides instant confirmation. Register at www.collegeboard.com/meetings <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.48740.0.5475> . If you have never registered for a meeting online, please remember that you need to request an account as a new user. The 2006-07 College Board professional development catalog is scheduled to mail this fall. Please do not hesitate to use the catalog to register by mail or fax. Sincerely yours, The Southern Regional Office
2006 Fall Counselor Workshops September 1, 2006
Dear Colleague: The Southern Regional Office of the College Board is pleased to announce the 2006 Fall Counselor Workshop schedule. This early announcement and our online registration process will help avoid the inevitable September rush! Online registration is easier, less time consuming, and provides instant confirmation. Register at www.collegeboard.com/meetings <http://click.collegeboard.com:80/12198263.48740.0.5475> . If you have never registered for a meeting online, please remember that you need to request an account as a new user. The 2006-07 College Board professional development catalog is scheduled to mail this fall. Please do not hesitate to use the catalog to register by mail or fax. Sincerely yours, The Southern Regional Office
Alabama
Tuesday, September 26 Birmingham
Birmingham-Southern College
Mobile
Spring Hill College
Florida
Tuesday, September 19 Orlando
University of Central Florida
Wednesday, September 20 Pensacola
Pensacola Junior College
Tallahassee
Florida A University
Thursday, September 21 Tampa
University of South Florida
Friday, September 22 Miami
Florida International University
Tuesday, September 26 Jacksonville
University of North Florida
Lakeland
Florida Southern College
Wednesday, September 27 Fort Lauderdale
Nova Southeastern University
Tuesday, September 19 Orlando
University of Central Florida
Wednesday, September 20 Pensacola
Pensacola Junior College
Tallahassee
Florida A University
Thursday, September 21 Tampa
University of South Florida
Friday, September 22 Miami
Florida International University
Tuesday, September 26 Jacksonville
University of North Florida
Lakeland
Florida Southern College
Wednesday, September 27 Fort Lauderdale
Nova Southeastern University
Georgia
Wednesday, September 6 East Point
Fulton County's Staff Development Center
Thursday, September 7 Fort Valley
Fort Valley State University
Friday, September 8 Dunwoody
Georgia Perimeter College
Savannah
Savannah State University
Kentucky
Friday, September 29 Louisville
University of Louisville
Louisiana
Wednesday, September 27 New Orleans
University of New Orleans
Mississippi
Thursday, September 28 Jackson
Millsaps College
North Carolina
Tuesday, September 12 Charlotte
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Raleigh
Meredith College
Wednesday, September 13 Fayetteville
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Friday, September 15 Greenville
Hilton Greenville
Thursday, September 21 Asheville
University of North Carolina at Asheville
Friday, September 22 Winston-Salem
Wake Forest University
South Carolina
Tuesday, September 12 Greenville
Greenville Technical College
Thursday, September 14 Charleston
Trident Technical College
Columbia
Midlands Technical College
Tennessee
Wednesday, September 13 Knoxville
Pellissippi State Technical Community College
Friday, September 15 Memphis
Rhodes College
Wednesday, September 20 Nashville
Nashville State Technical College
Virginia
Tuesday, September 12 Charlottesville
University of Virginia
Friday, September 22 Fairfax
George Mason University
Wednesday, September 27 Salem
Roanoke College
Thursday, September 28 Richmond
University of Richmond
Friday, September 29 Hampton
Thomas Nelson Community College
