High School

Learn more about high school academics, discipline policies and other issues relevant to private schools. Here we cover dress codes, explain the difference between AP and IB courses and discuss teen suicide. You’ll also find information on study abroad programs, codes of conduct and the best graduation gifts.

View the most popular articles in High School:

Unlocking the Future: The Power of STEAM Education

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Unlocking the Future: The Power of STEAM Education
In this article we look at the benefits of a STEAM education, highlighting its interdisciplinary approach, the subjects involved, and the value it brings to students.

As a classically trained musician descended from a long line of engineers, I have experienced the interplay and tension between my passion for music and my appreciation of how things work. When I studied trigonometry and Latin in high school, I never realized that STEM subjects would become a critical component of 21st-century primary and secondary education. Neither did I understand how the arts enriched my perspective on just about everything.

In today's rapidly changing world, we must prepare students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The focus on STEM has morphed into integrating arts subjects with STEM, creating the aggregation of disciplines we call STEAM. A STEAM education integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in a comprehensive and cohesive learning environment. Most private K-12 schools are well-equipped to teach the benefits of a STEAM education, thus providing their students with a strong foundation for future success in their life and work as adults.

In the explanation of STEAM and the subjects that comprise STEAM that follows, I have included quotations from various sites devoted to STEAM, so that you can explore the approach in detail.

The Interdisciplinary Approach of STEAM

The concept behind STEAM education is the idea that these five disciplines are interconnected and that we should adopt an integrated approach to teaching the various components. Combining subjects such as science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, helps students develop a deeper understanding of how concepts and principles are applied across

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Technology in the Classroom

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Technology in the Classroom
Technology is transforming K-12 education, enabling personalized learning, immersive experiences, and new teaching methods. This article explores the latest classroom technologies like interactive whiteboards, tablets, virtual reality, online learning platforms, and educational software. It examines how these tools enhance engagement, provide real-time data, and facilitate hybrid learning models.
oiStockPhoto/Gorodenkoff

I've wanted to write an article about technology and its uses in our classrooms forever. We've come a long way since PCs and VisiCalc emerged in the 1980s. Over the past 45 years, devices kept getting smaller, more powerful, and, best of all, so much easier to use. That, coupled with the explosion of information online, means that any student, any classroom, can have the resources of a Library of Congress to the Nth degree at her fingertips.

Given the scope of this subject, I will divide it into two articles. The first deals with technology in the classroom, what's used, how it's used, its pros and cons, and so forth. The second will examine the future of educational technology, its sustainability, and its use in school offices.

Technology in the Classroom

There's no doubt that technology enhances learning experiences for students. Learning Management Systems (LMS) organize and deliver those improved experiences.

A Learning Management System is a software application or web-based technology used to plan, implement, and assess a specific learning process. Think of it as an electronic lesson plan book on steroids. Typically, an LMS provides an instructor with a way to create and deliver content, monitor student participation, and assess student performance. Source: IBM

This video explains Learning Management Systems.

Threaded discussions, video conferencing, and discussion forums are

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Volunteering at Your Children's Private School

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Volunteering at Your Children's Private School
Discover the many meaningful ways parents can get involved at their children's private school and make a positive impact on the educational journey. From PTA involvement to sharing specialized skills, find out how your contributions can strengthen the school community.

Private schools thrive on the active involvement of parents in various aspects of their children's educational experience. These institutions greatly value the contributions of parents in creating a vibrant and supportive community. Volunteering at your child's private school not only fosters a stronger connection with the institution but also sets an excellent example for your child. In this article, we'll explore various ways you can get involved and make a meaningful impact on your children's educational journey.

Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA)

Most private schools have a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) that plays a crucial role in building a strong school community. Joining the PTA provides parents with opportunities to participate in school-wide initiatives, fundraisers, and events. These organizations often serve as a bridge between parents, teachers, and school administrators. A well-organized, well-run PTA can also become one of your school's most effective marketing tools. Satisfied parents talk and spread the word about the school which means so much to them.

This video explains why it is important to be involved in your school's parent-teacher organization.

Classroom Assistance

Offering to assist in your child's classroom is an excellent way to get directly involved in their education. Teachers often appreciate having volunteers to help with various tasks, such as reading with students, organizing materials, or supervising field trips. By doing so, you can gain insights into your child's daily school life and build a closer relationship

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Assessment: The Use of Rubrics in Grades 7-12

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Assessment: The Use of Rubrics in Grades 7-12
Discover how rubrics can empower parents to support their middle and high school students' education effectively. Explore practical strategies for understanding and using rubrics in grades 7-12.

As parents, we play a crucial role in our children's educational journey, especially during their middle and high school years. To support their academic success, we must understand the tools educators use to assess and guide their students' progress. This article delves into the world of rubrics and how they can empower parents in grades 7-12 to be active partners in their children's education.

The Importance of Rubrics in Grades 7-12

Rubrics are not just grading tools but windows into your child's learning experience. We'll explore why rubrics are essential for assessing academic and soft skills development, helping you gain insights into your child's progress in various subjects.

What is a rubric?

A rubric is a structured scoring guide or set of criteria used to evaluate or assess performance, work, or a particular task. It provides a clear and systematic way to measure the quality or level of achievement in a given context, such as in education, grading assignments projects, or assessing various skills.

The use of rubrics dates back to ancient times, with the term "rubric" originating from the Latin word "ruber," which means red. In ancient Rome and medieval Europe, teachers and religious leaders often used red ink or red lines to highlight important text or instructions within documents or manuscripts. Over time, this practice evolved into using red ink or markings to indicate specific grading criteria and guidelines for assessments.

However, as we understand them today, the modern concept of rubrics developed more significantly in

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The Value of STEM Programs

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The Value of STEM Programs
The STEM subjects are now taught across curricula and integrated into the teaching of every subject at every grade level. More about STEM here.

I've often wondered how my education would have turned out if computers and STEM had been part of the course offerings in the 50s and 60s. Of course, engineering is part of my DNA, with my father, uncles, grandfather, and great-uncles all having been chemical, mechanical, or civil engineers. Music and Latin were the subjects that interested me as a high school student. Fast forward to 1980. When IBM introduced the PC in 1980, I was awestruck. Then came the DARPA project called the Internet. I never looked back. I devoured technology and all its manifestations with an enthusiasm I had never experienced before. Against that personal backdrop, in this essay, I aim to see how I would integrate STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into my grandchildren's educations.

Why is a STEM education important?

An education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is important for several reasons: Pair STEM with AI, and your students will be well-equipped to handle the career challenges of today's work environment.

It provides career opportunities

The workplace is changing rapidly. Education in STEM subjects can provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to pursue careers in fields that are in demand.

STEM extends far beyond the classroom. There are many places where STEM shows up in the real world, and many students already unknowingly engage with it in their day-to-day routines. Highlighting how everyday experiences can relate to their STEM education is another way of

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Early Childhood Education: Which Approach to Choose?
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Your 10-Step Guide to Choosing a Private School
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Selecting the best private school for your child is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and research. Our "10 Step Guide for Choosing a Private School" provides a detailed roadmap to help parents navigate this complex process. This guide covers everything from assessing your child's unique needs and researching potential schools to evaluating academic programs and exploring financial aid options. Whether you're looking for a school that offers PK-12 or just high school grades, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make the best choice for your child's education.

High School

ACADEMICS
A comprehensive look at high school academics. We cover grades, AP and IB courses, and the post graduate year. Learn the secrets of A+ students. Explore summer abroad programs, read interviews with experts and get valuable tips on excelling academically.
DISCIPLINE
A brief look into high school discipline policies. From codes of conduct to uniforms and dress code, we'll provide information on the latest practices in private schools.
OTHER ISSUES
From graduation gifts to preventing teen suicide, this section provides information on a variety of topics affecting high school students. Learn what to do when your child is expelled, you need financial aid or you’re looking for a teaching job. Get expert advice on protecting your teen from substance abuse, finding the right high school and handling personal technology on campus.