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Academy English/Math

Building Confidence & Skills Today…For a Successful Tomorrow. Academy English and Math (AEM) was was designed to increase student self-esteem and improve skills in reading, writing and mathematics. The program was initiated 2004-2005 school year, has been a success. The Academy English and Math program uses other data to monitor student success. Last year, students enrolled in the program attended 91 percent of their classes.

The Story of AEM

welcom1
February 16, 2005
Williamsport Sun-Gazette

 

Two years ago, Loyalsock Township Senior High School principal Allen Di Marco had a vision to help underachieving students succeed in the classroom.

On Tuesday, the district’s Board of Directors saw the fruits of that vision. The Ninth Grade Academy, the result of Di Marco’s quest, was designed to increase student self-esteem and improve skills in reading, writing and mathematics.

Di Marco approached three teachers for help in designing the program – special education teacher Dayne Watkins, English teacher Vicky Krout and math teacher Jason Gresh. He told them that up to 15 students could be selected for the program, and each had to have good work ethic. Also the material had to be presented in a unique way.

The program, initiated at the beginning of the 2004-2005 school year, appears to have been a success. In all three subject areas, there have been marked improvements by nearly every student enrolled in the program.

During each of the three marking periods since the program began, at least four of its students have made the honor roll. Last year, during the same marking periods, none of those students made the honor roll, Watkins said.

“For many of these students this is the first time in their careers they made the honor roll,” she said.

The program uses other data to monitor student success. Last year, students enrolled in the program attended 91 percent of their classes. This year that number rose to 96 percent, Watkins said.

Although no data was available from the previous year, assignment completion was at or above 92 percent during the three marking periods this year, she said.

“This opportunity is the best I’ve had in respect to teaching in my (eight-year) career,” she said. “The results speak for themselves.”

Several parents spoke highly of the program.

“For nine years, we have struggled in school. We have always squeaked by,” said Theresa Schweikel, whose daughter, Rachel Wise, is enrolled in the program. “This program has just done wonders.”

Michele Rickard, whose son Taylor Gray is enrolled in the program, called it a “success story.” Taylor barely passed eighth grade, she said. When Di Marco approached her about the academy. “It sounded like a dream come true,” she said.

Her opinion hasn’t changed since the school year began.

“Taylor has been on the honor roll for the first three marking periods for the first time since fifth grade,” she said. “I’m sure his success will carry him through his entire high school career.”

“The academy is a winner from all angles,” she said.

Students Natosha Wright, Jessica Masters, Wise and Taylor also participated in the presentation. Jessica Stine could not attend the event but addressed the board via video.

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