(Thanks Bill Lewis for taking the minutes and James for conducting the meeting)
DD&E Academy Advisory Meeting 10/20/2009- Minutes
- Introductions of those present
- Description of Academy
o 2 components of pathways
o Currently 63 students enrolled
o 50% at risk
o Goal to bring at risk students to higher level
Questions about Academy?
What is the goal of the academy?
That students understand their desired field coming out of high school and are prepared to enter that as a major in college. Increase student proficiency in core classes. There is a great deal of work to be done to get students to this level from their at risk status.
What is the math level of students?
All are Algebra 1 or higher.
Niles Nilo(Lockheed) states that he was willing to go through math because he saw that it could be fun. Suggested that if we can focus on that with students then they may achieve higher in math.
A teacher commented that PLTW courses work well with a mix of AP and at risk students because the advanced students can refine their skills by helping those who struggle.
Comment was made about the effect of cross curricular instruction and how it gives students greater opportunities to improve.
Comment- students in the academy also have tutors available and mentoring opportunities if they want them. Additionally they have motivational field trips and are in common core classes.
Has KHS considered doing a robotics club?
Yes, but it is currently not being pursued as we are already overextended.
Are all students the same grade level in the academy?
Yes, all in 10th grade.
Ken Santarelli- the at risk group is important because they are also the most likely to stay local.
Why is Digital Electronics the Engineering course in the academy?
That is the sophomore level course in the pathway.
Mentoring, suggestions & recommendations
Betsy McKinstry- This is the first year of this academy. Lancaster engineering is done through their robotics club, with classes given in support of that club, this academy is different. The instruction in engineering here is done through classes. Internships in the academy will need to be more formal as well. It takes time to develop these internships, especially in aerospace. Putting it out there now… we need your help. The grant focuses on workplace skills. I see this academy becoming like the health careers academy. This is a large scale endeavor and will require 63 internships in summer of 2011. The more people are involved the smaller the load will be.
Suggestion (QH rep)- Have students work with facility coordinators. Key will be finding key contacts in venues. Who all is out there? It does not only have to be engineering/digital companies.
AV Credit Union rep- we want to change our website, perhaps this is something that digital students could participate in. Design stickers, coloring books, etc. Don’t leave out other potential business partners.
Board of Trade membership and contact lists. Following the business outlook meeting should be follow-up contacts.
Parent Input (Sonia Patterson) – My son is trying to find his interest in life. He helped me make a powerpoint last week with animation, and graphics. Everything is going toward technology. Mentoring will be very important to these students. There are a lot of single parents, working parents. It is important that these kids have guidance. I would hope that all 63 students have mentors available.
Comment- We should compile a list of people. Try the city of Palmdale’s city engineers too.
We will distribute a form that has check boxes of where you or someone you know might be able to help. Lets start compiling a list now. We want mentors that students can feel comfortable asking questions, and talking to more than on a one time class presentation basis. (Diane Walker volunteered to make the form)
Lockheed rep- Could you write down exactly what you want from Lockheed for support? This would greatly help me to seek out that support, whether it is after school projects, or tutoring, etc.
QH has a wind tunnel available.
Distribute info at chamber of commerce.
Scholarships:
Mrs. Patterson commented that she has access to many scholarship information and would send us that information as it become available to her.
Suggested Contacts
Lancaster City Engineering- Robert Neal
City of Palmdale Civil Engineering- ?
AVHSD- Matt Havens
Ken Santarelli- will talk to students about Engineering Programs
Manufacturing- US Pole – Mr. Strauss
Delta Scientific/ Security Gates
TIN
Aerospace (facility coordinators)
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