The document discusses the rationale and benefits of implementing a 9th grade academy at Wissahickon High School. A 9th grade academy aims to ease the transition to high school through a smaller learning community that focuses on building social and academic skills. Research shows 9th grade academies can lead to fewer disciplinary issues, better study habits, and higher GPAs. The proposed Wissahickon academy would utilize team-based teaching and include a culminating 10-year life planning project for students.
As an administrative team and through the conversations of the initiatives subcommittee we have identified and discussed a need to put in place supports to meet the developmental and transitional needs of incoming 9 th grade students. Research shows the best way to address these developmental/transitional needs are by developing smaller learning communities. We have decided to do that through the implementation of a 9 th grade academy.
The needs of 14 and 15 year-old students differ from those of 17 and 18 year-old students in our building. A 9 th grade academy will allow us to, through a team approach, target the specific needs of our 14 and 15 year-old students while also focusing them on the importance of life after high school.
Some benefits of a 9 th grade learning community are listed above.
Listed above are reasons why a 9 th grade academy will be successful at WHS.
The benefits of a 9 th grade academy at WHS can be realized without having to alter the student course selection process or teacher schedules. Students and parents will continue to select their own courses as they have previously done. Teachers will utilize common planning time to focus on individual student needs and best instructional practices.
Collaboration has already taken place between the high school and middle school. WMS and their 8 th grade teams have expressed a desire to share their successful team practices with 9 th teachers.
WHS and WMS PTC’s : What are the benefits my 9 th grade child will receive? How will the 9 th grade academy effect my child’s schedule? BCTC : Is the 9 th gr academy similar to the pod system at WMS? How are the students placed onto teams? How will the students transition from 9 th to 10 th gr? How will the concept be introduced to the 8 th gr parents? WHS Faculty : How will the elective courses be affected?
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