School Years 2015–2017 MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS MILESTONES The Downcounty Consortium Choice Process and Academy Programs
• BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON
I can THRIVE at ALL 5!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Downcounty Consortium (DCC)...... 1 Choice Process Description...... 1 Downcounty Consortium Base High Schools...... 2 Choice Process Timeline...... 3 Montgomery Blair High School Academies...... 5 Entrepreneurship & Business Management...... 5 Montgomery Blair High School Human Services Professions (HSP)...... 5 International Studies & Law (ISL)...... 6 Media, Music & The Arts (MMA)...... 6 Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)...... 7 Albert Einstein High School Academies...... 8 Finance, Business Management & Marketing...... 8 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme...... 8 Renaissance...... 9 Albert Einstein High School Visual & Performing Arts (VAPA) ...... 9 John F. Kennedy High School Academies...... 10 Broadcast Journalism & Communications...... 10 Business Management & Administration...... 10 Health Careers...... 11 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme...... 11 Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC)...... 12 John F. Kennedy High School Northwood High School Academies...... 13 Humanities, Art & Media (HAM)...... 13 Musical Theatre & Dance (AMTAD)...... 13 Politics, Advocacy & Law (PAL)...... 14 Technological, Environmental & Systems Sciences (TESS)...... 14 Montgomery College Middle College at Northwood...... 15 Wheaton High School Academies...... 16 Bioscience...... 16 Northwood High School Engineering (AOE)...... 16 Information Technology (AOIT)...... 17 Institute for Global & Cultural Studies (IGCS) ...... 17 Application-Only Programs...... 18 Frequently Asked Questions...... 19
Note: Information contained in this publication is subject to change. Wheaton High School Questions? Visit the websites and/or contact the schools. WHERE ARE RECENT CONSORTIA GRADUATES NOW?*
Adelphi University Duke University Lynchburg College Ringling College of Art and Design University of Maine Albright College Dunwoody College of Technology Lynn University Rochester Institute of Technology University of Maryland, Baltimore County Allegany College of Maryland Duquesne University Macalester College Rutgers University, New Brunswick University of Maryland, College Park Allegheny College Earlham College Make Up Forever Academy, New York Saint Anselm College University of Maryland, Eastern Shore AMDA—The American Musical and East Carolina University Manhattanville College Saint Joseph’s University University of Maryland University College Dramatic Academy Eastern University Marshall University Salisbury University University of Massachusetts, Amherst American Academy of Dramatic Arts Eckerd College Mary Baldwin College San Diego State University University of Miami American University Elizabeth City State University Maryland Institute College of Art Santa Barbara City College University of Michigan Anne Arundel Community College Elizabethtown College Marymount University Sarah Lawrence College University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Antioch College Elon University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Savannah College of Art and Design University of Mississippi Arizona State University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, McDaniel College School of the Art Institute of Chicago University of New Hampshire Art Institute of Washington Daytona Beach McGill University Scripps College University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Auburn University Emory University Medtech Institute Seoul National University University of North Carolina at Charlotte Barnard College Empire Beauty School Messiah College Seton Hill University University of North Carolina at Greensboro Barry University Fairfield University Methodist University Sewanee: The University of the South University of North Carolina at Wilmington Bates College Flagler College Miami University, Oxford Shenandoah University University of Pennsylvania Bellevue University Florida A&M University Michigan State University Shepherd University University of Pittsburgh Beloit College Florida Atlantic University Middle Georgia State College Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg Binghamton University Florida International University Middlebury College Simmons College University of Redlands Boston College Florida State University Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design Smith College University of Richmond Boston University Fordham University Mississippi State University South Carolina State University University of Rhode Island Bowie State University Frederick Community College Montgomery College, Germantown Southern Virginia University University of Rochester Brandeis University Frostburg State University Montgomery College, Rockville Spelman College University of San Diego Bridgewater College Garrett College Montgomery College, Takoma Park St. Bonaventure University University of San Francisco Brigham Young University, Idaho George Mason University Morehouse College St. Francis College University of Scranton Brock University George Washington University Morgan State University St. John’s University, Queens Campus University of South Carolina Brown University Georgetown University Mount Holyoke College St. Mary’s College of Maryland University of South Florida, Tampa Bryn Mawr College Georgia Institute of Technology Mount Saint Mary’s University Stanford University University of Southern California Bucknell University Georgian Court University Mount St. Mary’s University Stern College for Women University of Tampa Butler University Goucher College Muhlenberg College Stetson University University of Tennessee, Knoxville California Institute of Technology Grambling State University New Jersey Institute of Technology Stevenson University University of Texas, Austin California Polytechnic State University, Grinnell College New York University Stony Brook University University of the Sciences in Philadelphia San Luis Opispo Guilford College North Carolina A & T State University Susquehanna University University of Toronto Calvin College Hagerstown Community College North Carolina Central University Swarthmore College University of Vermont Campbell University Hamline University North Carolina State University, Raleigh Syracuse University University of Virginia Capitol Technology University Hampshire College Northeastern University Temple University University of Washington Carnegie Mellon University Hampton University Northern Arizona University TESST College of Technology, Beltsville University of Wisconsin, Madison Case Western Reserve University Harvard University Northern Virginia Community College, The New School Ursinus College Catholic University of America Harvey Mudd College Alexandria THE TEMPLE: Utah Valley University Central State University Hawaii Pacific University Northern Virginia Community College, A Paul Mitchell Partner School Vanderbilt University Chapman University High Point University Annandale Thiel College Vassar College Cheyney University of Pennsylvania Hillsborough Community College Northern Virginia Community College, Toccoa Falls College Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Chowan University Hofstra University Loudoun Towson University Technology City College of New York Hollins University Northwestern University Trevecca Nazarene University Villanova University Clarion University of Pennsylvania Hood College Notre Dame of Maryland University Trinity College Virginia Commonwealth University Clark University Howard Community College Oberlin College Trinity University, Washington, DC Virginia State University Clayton College & State University Howard University Occidental College Tufts University Virginia Tech Clemson University Hudson Valley Community College Ohio State University Tulane University Virginia Union University Coastal Carolina University Indiana University at Bloomington Ohio University Tuskegee University Virginia University of Lynchburg Colby College Indiana University of Pennsylvania Ohio Wesleyan University United States Air Force Academy Wagner College Colgate University Iona College Old Dominion University United States Marines Wake Forest University College of Charleston Ithaca College Oral Roberts University United States Military Academy-Army Washington Adventist University College of the Holy Cross Jacksonville University Pace University, New York City United States Navy Washington and Lee University College of William and Mary James Madison University Pacific Union College University of Akron Washington College College of Wooster Johns Hopkins University Palm Beach State College University of Alabama Washington University in St. Louis Collin College Johnson & Wales University, Charlotte Penn State Abington University of Arizona Waynesburg University Colorado State University Johnson & Wales University, Miami Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg University of Baltimore Wentworth Institute of Technology Columbia College Chicago Johnson & Wales University, Providence Pennsylvania State University, University of British Columbia Wesley College Columbia University Johnson C. Smith University University Park University of California, Berkeley Wesleyan University Community College of Baltimore County Juniata College Pepperdine University University of California, Davis West Chester University Concordia University - Montreal Kent State University Pitt Community College University of California, Irvine West Liberty University Coppin State University Kenyon College Point Park University University of California, Los Angeles West Virginia University Cornell University La Salle University Potomac State College of University of California, San Diego West Virginia Wesleyan College Culinary Institute of America Lafayette College West Virginia University University of California, Santa Cruz Western University Dartmouth College Laboratory Institute of Merchandising Prince George’s Community College University of Central Florida Whitman College Delaware State University Lehigh University Princeton University University of Chicago Winston-Salem State University Delgado Community College Lewis & Clark College Purdue University University of Colorado at Boulder Winthrop University Denison University Liberty University Radford University University of Connecticut Yale University DePaul University Lincoln Technical Institute, Maryland Randolph-Macon College University of Delaware York College of Pennsylvania DePauw University Lincoln University Reed College University of Georgia Youngstown University DeVry University Long Island University, Brooklyn Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Hartford Dickinson College Loyola University Chicago Rice University University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Drexel University Loyola University Maryland Rider University University of Kentucky
*This list is reflective of many of the postsecondary destinations of recent Consortia graduates. THE DOWNCOUNTY CONSORTIUM
ELCOME TO THE DOWNCOUNTY CONSORTIUM (DCC)! The DCC is made up of five high schools Wand their feeder middle and elementary schools. All five high schools—Montgomery Blair, Albert Einstein, John F. Kennedy, Northwood, and Wheaton—offer students a comprehensive education, including Honors and Advanced Placement courses, a variety of activities, athletics and clubs, and outstanding academy programs. Academy programs are small learning communities that include sequences of courses designed around central themes of interest to students. These programs help students make meaningful connections between their academics and their interests, plans for college, and future careers. ALL five high schools offer exciting opportunities. This booklet contains an overview of the DCC academy programs. Students—explore your options at ALL five schools!
Choice Process Description The Choice Form The Choice process is a high school lottery assignment ¾¾ Round 1 process for Grade 8 students in Montgomery County Public In mid-October, a preprinted Choice form will be mailed Schools (MCPS) who live in the Downcounty Consortium to the homes of MCPS Grade 8 students who live in the attendance area or attend a DCC middle school. Students Downcounty Consortium. and their parents participate by completing a Choice form • Students who attend a Consortia middle school will and ranking the five DCC high schools in order of preference. return the signed form to their middle school. Factors in the lottery assignment process may include the • Students who attend middle school outside the total number of available seats, choice ranking, sibling link, Consortia should return their form to the DCCAPS socioeconomic status, and gender. While every effort is made office. to assign students to their first choice, some students may be • Completed Choice forms are due by the November assigned to a school other than their first choice. due date.
Choice Process—Rounds 1 and 2 Montgomery County Public Schools DOWNCOUNTY CONSORTIUM There are two rounds in the Choice process. Choice Form for students entering Round 1 Official address changes can only be made through your school's counseling office. Student ID: Grade: Current School:
ROUND 1 takes place in November. It is for Grade 8 DCC To the Parents/Guardians of: Sample Student Base School 11721 Kemp Mill Rd residents only (including private and home-schooled students). Silver Spring, MD 20902
• Students who participate in Round 1 will receive a high Fill bubbles like this Step 1: Enter your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th choices by shading in one circle per box. school assignment letter in early February. Each school may be marked only once. All five choices must be completed. If you would like your child to attend the base school, select the base school as 1st choice. ROUND 2 takes place in February. It is for Grade 8 students If you would like your child to attend the same school as a brother/sister, select the same school.
1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice 4th Choice 5th Choice on transfer into a DCC middle school, those who did not get Blair Blair Blair Blair Blair Einstein Einstein Einstein Einstein Einstein their first choice in Round 1, and for new DCC residents. Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy Northwood Northwood Northwood Northwood Northwood • Students who participate in Round 2 will receive a high Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton
Step 2: Mark all that apply. school assignment letter in late March. I had enough information about all three schools to rank them in order. I attended at least one meeting this fall (or last spring) to learn more. Parents of students who do not receive their first choice Generally, I am satisfied with the Choice process. Step 3: Complete the authorization information. The Choice process is a lottery school assignment process. Factors in the assignment process may include the total number of school in Round 1 may participate in Round 2 by submitting available seats, choice ranking, sibling link, socioeconomic status and gender of the student. Every effort is made to assign students to their first choice school using the factors above. After completion of Rounds 1 and 2 of the Choice process, seats at schools may be further limited. a written request to the Division of Consortia Choice and I have ranked my choices and read the statement above. Parent/Guardian Signature ______Date ______
Student Signature ______Date ______
Application Program Services (DCCAPS) to resubmit their Please Print Parent/Guardian Name ______Home Phone # ______
Parent/Guardian Cell Phone # ______Parent/Guardian Work Phone # ______child’s original choices. Written requests must be received Step 4: RETURN THIS FORM TO: YOUR CHILD'S MIDDLE SCHOOL.
For students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), annual review decisions may supersede school assignments made through the Choice process. For students in ESOL programs, results of the Las-Links English Test may supersede school assignments made through the Choice process. in the DCCAPS office by the February due date. (For the For students in Alternative programs, next year's school placement may supersede school assignments made through the Choice process. DCCAPS address or fax number, see the bottom of page 3). Preparing for the Choice Process ¾¾ Round 2 In the fall, Downcounty Consortium parents and students In early February, a preprinted Choice form will be mailed to will receive information announcing dates for DCC evening the homes of Grade 8 students who attend a DCC middle information meetings and high school open houses. DCC school on transfer or are new DCC residents. Grade 8 students will also have the opportunity to hear • Students who attend a Consortia middle school will information about the Choice process and the five high return the signed form to their middle school. schools from a school counselor. • Completed Choice forms are due by the February due date.
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 1 Downcounty Consortium Downcounty Consortium Base High Schools Middle Schools All students have a base high school that is determined by Argyle ...... 301-460-2400 their home address. Assignment to a student’s base high Eastern...... 301-650-6650 school is guaranteed if (1) it is indicated as first choice on the Choice form or (2) it is indicated as second choice and the Col. E. Brooke Lee...... 301-649-8100 first choice school is not available. A. Mario Loiederman...... 301-929-2282 To identify a student’s base high school, visit the website Newport Mill...... 301-929-2244 http://gis.mcpsmd.org/gis/PublicLocator.asp Parkland...... 301-438-5700 Montgomery Blair High School Base Area Silver Spring International. . . .301-650-6544 Elementary Schools Sligo...... 301-649-8121 East Silver Spring Takoma Park...... 301-650-6444 Montgomery Knolls/Pine Crest New Hampshire Estates/Oak View Transportation Rolling Terrace Transportation is provided for students who live within Sligo Creek (eastern portion of service area) the DCC attendance area and beyond walking distance Takoma Park/Piney Branch of their assigned DCC high school. Walking distance is Albert Einstein High School Base Area determined by MCPS, and is approximately two miles Elementary Schools for high school students. Highland Oakland Terrace Rock View Downcounty Consortium Woodlin Secondary Schools Parkland MS nm High School John F. Kennedy High School Base Area nm Middle School Middle School Service Area Elementary Schools nmArgyle MS Montgomery Blair HS Base Area Parkland MS Argyle MS Bel Pre/Strathmore nm Albert Einstein HS Base Area Georgian Forest Parkland MS John F. Kennedy HS Base Area C o n A n v e e c Northwood HS Base Area n ti u c e u Glenallan t Wheaton HS Base Area
d R l il John F. Kennedy HS Harmony Hills h A. Mario Loiderman MS y V a i L n 0 0.5 1 2 er nm s M il l R Wheaton HS d n Miles Col. E. Northwood High School Base Area A. Mario Sligo Brooke Lee MS Elementary Schools Loiederman MS nmCol. E. Brooke Lee MS Arcola
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E a d s R t lle vi es ol Brookhaven C Sargent Shriver Takoma Park MSnm Viers Mill Takoma Weller Road Park MS e v A e ir h s p Wheaton Woods m a H w e N Montgomery County Public Schools - Division of Long-range Planning - June 18, 2013 Sibling Link Operating Officer, Montgomery County Public Parents may request that their Grade 8 child be assigned Schools. Decisions on appeals will occur within 30 days to the same high school as a sibling who is currently in of receipt by the appropriate office. the general education program in Grade 9, 10, or 11 at a DCC school by completing the sibling link section on Change of Choice the Choice form. Failure to complete this section may In February, a student in Grade 9, 10, or 11 who result in sibling assignment to different schools. wants to request a different DCC high school for the following school year may submit a Change of Choice Choice Process Appeals request form. Change of Choice request forms will All DCC students are subject to the school assignment be available in early February at all five DCC high lottery process except in some cases of students in school counseling offices and on the website www. special education or ESOL programs. Therefore, to montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/. The be fair, a written request may be submitted to change Change of Choice process considers a variety of factors high schools because of a hardship or unforeseen when reassigning students to schools. These factors circumstance that may warrant overriding the general include the number of available seats, socioeconomic applicable assignment factors. The first level of appeal status, and gender. If a Change of Choice request is is administered by the Division of Consortia Choice denied, the parent may appeal the decision in writing and Application Program Services. The second level as described above. of appeal is administered by the Office of the Chief
Choice Process Timeline • Downcounty Consortium high school evening information mailers sent to DCC Grade 8 students in MCPS. September/ October • High school Options evening information meetings held at two high schools. For details, visit the website www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/.
• Evening Open Houses held at Blair, Einstein, Kennedy, Northwood and Wheaton high schools. October/ • Choice forms mailed to the homes of MCPS Grade 8 students who live within the DCC boundaries. November • Evening student enrollment held for parents of current private school and home-schooled students who live in the DCC. Call 301-592-2040 for further information.
¾¾ Round 1
November • Choice forms due from Grade 8 students who live within the DCC attendance area.
February • DCC high school assignment letters mailed to homes of Round 1 participants.
¾¾ Round 2 and Change of Choice
• Choice forms due: ➣ from Grade 8 students who attend DCC middle schools on transfer and choose to participate in the DCC Choice process, and ➣ from Grade 8 residents who enroll in the DCC after Round 1. • Written requests due to the DCCAPS office from parents of students who did not receive their first choice February school in Round 1 and want to participate in Round 2. (Round 1 school choices will be resubmitted in Round 2). • Change of Choice request forms due from parents/students in Grades 9, 10, and 11 requesting a different DCC high school for the next school year. Forms available in early February from DCC high school counsel- ing offices and the website www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/, or by calling 301-592-2040.
March • Notification letters mailed to homes of Round 2 and Change of Choice participants in late March.
¾¾ Appeals
April • Letters of appeal due to DCCAPS office from parents of students appealing the school assignment decision.
Note: For further information about the Downcounty Consortium, visit the website at www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/ downcounty/, contact your MCPS school counselor, or call the DCCAPS office at 301-592-2040. The DCCAPS office is located at 11721 Kemp Mill Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20902. The fax number is 301-649-8155.
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 3
MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL
51 University Boulevard, East, Silver Spring, Maryland 20901 • 301-649-2800 www.mbhs.edu
¾¾ ENTREPRENEURSHIP & ¾ ¾HUMAN SERVICES BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONS (HSP) ACADEMY ACADEMY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— DO YOU ENJOY— understanding how to become a financially working with young children? healthy adult? playing sports and interacting with athletes? gaining real life skills such as how to listening to and advising others? negotiate, how to present an idea to investors, how to use credit, and how to take helping people in your community? appropriate risks? teaching other people? learning how to analyze business opportunities? In our HSP Academy, you will be able to… exploring how to become an entrepreneur and run your own business, and how to select from a large group of elective classes become a successful investor? that highlight child development, health, and psychology Students in this academy can… enjoy opportunities to learn and practice participate in world-class internships in law, skills in our community with professionals accounting, finance, and/or marketing who work in a variety of HSP fields
run a school store obtain valuable life experiences to promote earn college credit while in high school relevant and diverse services for our society engage in opportunities outside the ¾ classroom, such as business plan ¾ Human Services Professions Academy Engage in opportunities to identify, analyze, and competitions, investment plan contests… propose solutions for a variety of service professions, “With the help of my business classes and my teacher, including those dealing with child welfare, I was accepted to the University of South Carolina education, and health and fitness. Providing essential human services, especially to those who are least business school. I will use my knowledge to pursue a able to help themselves, is the mission of all human career in sports management or accounting.” services professionals. Join our team! —Academy Student “The academy programs at Blair are helping me prepare for college by allowing me to focus on courses that are centered around my career goals.”—HSP Student
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 5 MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ INTERNATIONAL STUDIES & ¾ ¾MEDIA, MUSIC & THE ARTS LAW (ISL) ACADEMY (MMA) ACADEMY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— FOR YOUR FUTURE, DO YOU ASPIRE TO— learning about other countries and cultures? write a book, play, or script?
discussing and debating controversial legal and become a musician, actor, photographer, or political issues of the day? artist?
examining what drives so much of the conflict produce a movie or television show? and turmoil that we see in the news each day? study and work as a newspaper editor or studying global economics and issues such as journalist? child labor, human trafficking, and immigration? work with web page design, digital art, or exploring the future of our planet, trends, and graphic design tools? what the world will look like in your lifetime? As a member of the MMA Academy, you will have If you join the ISL Academy, you will be able to… the opportunity to… take specialty elective classes such as International Human Rights, Global Issues in create authentic pieces of art in a variety of the 21st Century, Peace Studies, and Justice, mediums Law and Society, AP Comparative Government, attend events to learn from professionals in the Comparative Religions, and many more MMA fields and receive their advice and guidance interact with students and adult professionals showcase your work through exhibits, from around the world performances, publications, and other available participate in our Mock Trial Club, Academic outlets WorldQuest Team, Model United Nations Club, and a variety of other student organizations choose from among unique classes in instrumental focused on international studies and law music, world drumming, ceramics, digital photography, drama, and many others visit embassies, hear from guest speakers on topics such as child labor, nuclear weapons, “What I love most about the MMA Academy at Blair are the U.S. Institute of Peace, the U.S. State the opportunities…Because of the academy, I submitted Department, and many others some of my films to the Madeira Film Festival and the “I plan on pursuing a career as a Foreign Service Officer in our Gandhi Youth Media Festival. I wouldn’t have heard nation’s diplomatic corps. Never in my wildest dreams did I about those opportunities if not for the academy…The imagine that my experiences in high school would lead me to academy allows students to get involved and pursue their the Edmund B. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown artistic interests.”—MMA Academy Student University, where I will be studying…!”—ISL Academy Student
6 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, As a member of the STEM Academy, you will be ENGINEERING & MATH able to… (STEM) ACADEMY access our vast Advanced Placement (AP) and magnet program course offerings DO YOU SEE YOURSELF— working in a lab as a research scientist, participate in internships and other experimenting and solving problems? experiences with local hospitals and organizations working with a team to build skyscrapers, motorcycles, highways, or rockets? volunteer and secure internship opportunities in a variety of STEM fields writing computer games, building robots, or designing computer networks? interact with expert guest speakers and participate in high-quality field trip practicing medicine as a doctor, physical excursions to laboratories, medical facilities, therapist, nurse, or veterinarian? and research organizations working in the field as an environmental scientist or a marine biologist? “The STEM program at Blair has given me the opportunity to explore a variety of classes, prepare for writing a book about the mysteries of the universe? college, challenge myself, meet new people, and become an expert in the field I love. I definitely feel prepared as I look forward to attending Harvard…and majoring in pre-med.”—STEM Academy Student
For more information about Blair academies, visit http://academies.mbhs.edu
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 7 ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL
11135 Newport Mill Road, Kensington, Maryland 20895 • 301-929-2200 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/einsteinhs
¾¾ FINANCE, BUSINESS ¾¾ INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT & BACCALAUREATE (IB) MARKETING ACADEMY DIPLOMA PROGRAMME ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— becoming fiscally responsible? challenging classes with high academic standards? learning real-life monetary skills? knowing how to communicate your ideas in entering the business world after college? speaking and writing? understanding how the financial world works? learning to think critically? exploring how money can work for you? earning a diploma and college credits that researching the stock market? are recognized worldwide? In the Academy of Finance (AOF), Business Then the IB Program at Einstein is for YOU! Management & Marketing, you can count on… The IB program is a rigorous liberal arts curriculum participating in business and entrepreneurial for highly motivated students. It seeks to educate skills workshops the whole individual, giving an “education for life.” interacting with professionals in related fields The curriculum is the same the world over, and encourages students to expand their knowledge with attending the MCPS Young Professionals a global perspective. Conference
pursuing an internship (often for credit and/ “All the different requirements of IB–the classes, TOK, or pay)! CAS, and the Extended Essay–have made me a more
being recognized in a countywide AOF well-rounded person.”—IB Academy Student graduation
“I think every student should have to take Personal Finance. NDO • WO U RL M D L It’s something all kids should know.” —AOF Student E S C D H
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8 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ RENAISSANCE ACADEMY ¾ ¾VISUAL & PERFORMING ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— ARTS (VAPA) ACADEMY developing your critical reading skills? ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— designing your own program of study? developing an artistic and intellectual philosophy about your craft? exploring the arts and sciences? performing and creating? earning college credits while in high school? learning in an environment that recognizes taking interesting and challenging courses? and develops your talents?
Renaissance Academy students can compiling a comprehensive portfolio of your count on… artistic endeavors?
enrollment in at least two Advanced engaging in an environment that fosters Placement (AP) classes aesthetic education and encourages an a widespread view of academics and the emphasis on musical, spatial, bodily kinesthetic, connections between disciplines interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligences?
the opportunity to explore a variety of VAPA students will have the opportunity to… academic areas follow a discipline, specific pathway, or explore many different courses (ceramics, “The Renaissance Academy pathway let me experience dance, instrumental music, music technology, classes I might not otherwise have taken.” photography, studio art, vocal music and —Renaissance Academy Student theatre). perform and display works in a multitude of venues both in school and within the community setting complete a senior capstone project to showcase the skills and experiences they have gained during their VAPA classes.
“Working with the VAPA faculty and my fellow students has taught me discipline and techniques and given me the confidence needed to be successful in college.” —VAPA Academy Student
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 9 JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL
1901 Randolph Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20902 • 301-929-2100 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/kennedyhs
¾¾ BROADCAST JOURNALISM ¾¾ BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & & COMMUNICATIONS ADMINISTRATION ACADEMY ACADEMY DO YOU WANT TO— DO YOU— lead a small business or a corporation? design and produce your own videos and market your products and ideas? photos? manage a team of employees? like debating, public speaking, and performing? understand how the economy works? create art or write music? play the stock market? design websites, objects, and computer learn how to turn an interest into a business? programs?
utilize your curiosity and ask who, what, Join the Business Management & Administration why, where, and how? Academy! This academy prepares students for careers as Join the Broadcast Journalism & Communications leaders in domestic and international commerce. Academy! Learn how to manage workers and lead companies This program provides students the opportunity in a global society. Gain valuable skills in finance, to apply technical knowledge and skills to the entrepreneurship, visioning, problem solving, and production of television and other media programs. productivity. Learn about media production and related operations, including sound, video, film and digital “The academy has challenged me to connect my interests media transmission. Develop essential skills in self- to a future career. I have learned to work as a leader and expression, inquiry, and critical thinking. Three as a team player. ”—Academy Student rigorous career pathway programs are available. Broadcast Journalism: Prepare for careers in television, radio, podcasting, and other Internet- based media. Get hands-on experience running WJFK, Kennedy’s award-winning television station. Work with career journalists, write news stories, produce shows, and intern with local and national media outlets.
10 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ HEALTH CAREERS ¾¾ INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIES BACCALAUREATE (IB) ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— DIPLOMA PROGRAMME becoming a doctor, nurse, or physical ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— therapist? pursuing rigorous academic standards in all learning about student wellness and physical subjects? rehabilitation? earning a diploma that is recognized worldwide? studying how the human body works? If so, the IB Program at Kennedy is for YOU! taking challenging science and research courses? Kennedy is an International Baccalaureate (IB) world school, which means all students have Then join the Health Careers Academies! access to IB classes in Grades 11 and 12. Students Two rigorous pathway programs are offered: have the option to pursue the IB Diploma by completing the full program, or they can pursue an Medical Careers: Explore careers in the health IB certificate by taking some IB courses. care industry and learn skills related to patient care practiced in hospitals and long-term care facilities. The IB curriculum features a global perspective, Successful students will receive cardiopulmonary which aims to encourage the skills of independent resuscitation (CPR) training and certification as a research and investigation, the use of initiative certified nursing assistant (CNA) with the Maryland and creativity, and the application of skills and Board of Nursing. knowledge. Health Careers: Prepare for careers in physical Those who complete the IB Diploma Programme rehabilitation and wellness. Intern in medical offices, are uniquely prepared for university study and may hospitals, and health care centers. Students take earn college credits for their work in the program. challenging science, medicine, and research courses to prepare for careers in this field. NDO • WO U RL M D “I love the Health Careers Academy! This academy has L E S C D an environment in which you are repeatedly encouraged H O O
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through projects and field trips.”—Academy Student M
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 11 JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ NAVY JUNIOR RESERVE Become part of the Navy Junior Reserve Officer OFFICERS TRAINING CORPS Training Corps—NJROTC! (NJROTC) The NJROTC program helps develop informed and responsible citizens, strengthen character, form DO YOU WANT TO— habits of self-discipline, and understand the need for develop your leadership ability? constituted authority in a democratic society. demonstrate a high degree of self-reliance As a cadet, you will plan, organize and direct your and discipline? activities under the guidance of the Naval Science see the latest technology available for the instructors. Participate in field trips to the Naval defense of our nation? Academy, the Pentagon, and various area military bases such as the Norfolk Virginia Naval Complex. serve your community? Earn awards as part of the Company Drill Team, participate in a wide range of physical and Color Guard, Air Rifle Team or Athletic Team. academic activities? Take advantage of opportunities to attend youth leadership seminars in Annapolis and Valley Forge, DID YOU KNOW— and a week-long summer leadership camp. Your NJROTC at Kennedy has 100+ members in accomplishments as an NJROTC cadet will be Grades 9-12? impressive on your résumé and enhance your Cadets can earn a varsity athletic letter for college applications. participating on one of these teams—Drill Team, Color Guard Team, or Rifle Team? “Navy JROTC is a leadership program that has helped me develop self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership Kennedy NJROTC graduates have been awarded college scholarships? skills to help me successfully meet life’s challenges.” —NJROTC Academy Student
12 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
919 University Boulevard, West, Silver Spring, Maryland 20901 • 301-649-8088 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/northwoodhs
¾ ¾HUMANITIES, ART & MEDIA ¾ ¾ACADEMY OF MUSICAL (HAM) ACADEMY THEATRE & DANCE (AMTAD) DO YOU WANT TO WIN A PEABODY The lights! The sound! The stage! The applause! AWARD OR BE HONORED FOR— It’s Broadway! journalism or short story writing? The performing arts come to Northwood in the form video production or broadcasting? of the Academy of Musical Theatre & Dance! research in the social sciences? DO YOU WANT TO— unique and innovative artwork? dance? creating change in our society through your creativity? design sets and stages? sing? You will be on your way toward that goal in the arrange music? HAM Academy! act? Work as a member of the camera crew for the direct performances? morning show. Create short films or publish literary magazines. Look at the impact of film and other play an instrument? media on our society. Work on commissions for art Come be a part of the musical theatre experience at installations. Design product logos and marketing Northwood! tools. Create new styles in fashion. Who knows? You could win a HAM Academy Award! Experience technical production, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and dramatics. A partnership with the American Film Institute Northwood High School provides opportunities highlights this enriching academy experience and for you to work on various dramatic and musical will benefit your endeavors in its college preparatory projects while preparing you for college and a work. career focused on the performing arts. “As part of WNHS (Northwood High School’s television “The Academy of Musical Theatre taught me that a and radio station), I get to report on news around the life on stage is what I love the most and it’s a lot less school. I even got to interview Philippe Cousteau, Jacques stressful being in school when you do something you love. Cousteau’s grandson!”—HAM Academy Student It also taught me to go after what you have a passion for.”—Musical Theatre Academy Student
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 13 NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
¾ ¾POLITICS, ADVOCACY & ¾ ¾TECHNOLOGICAL, LAW (PAL) ACADEMY ENVIRONMENTAL & SYSTEMS DO YOU WANT TO— SCIENCES (TESS) ACADEMY argue a case in front of the Supreme Court? ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— sit on the Supreme Court as a judge? global warming?
fight for your rights? green architecture? energy conservation? run for public office, maybe even for president? wildlife preservation?
run a political campaign? green engineering? alternative energy? investigate crimes, like on CSI? landscape design? If so, the PAL Academy is for you! Prepare for your green future at Northwood! Examine our government. Be articulate in the areas Explore all these opportunities in the TESS of policy, citizenship, and advocacy. Look at law, Academy, where the great outdoors and your politics, law enforcement, and public safety. Make a imagination are a part of your classroom. Be actively difference in your own life and the lives of others. engaged in computer applications, technology Debate your way through trials or be the judge engineering, and exploring environmental and make the ruling. Experience the life of a conditions. Their implications for our community police officer through the Police Explorers or take and world will shape our collective future. fingerprints and hair samples to help solve crimes. Work with Green Schools, the Chesapeake Bay Campaign for a seat on student government and/ Foundation, the University of Maryland—College or get involved in your community. The real-life Park, and many other organizations. Here is a sample politics of Northwood High School are yours to of courses you will encounter in the TESS Academy: explore. Environmental Science, Biology, Computer Science, Microcomputer Operating Systems, Engineering “I got a job at a law firm this summer. They asked me Science, and Designing Technology. to write a brief. I knew how to do it. They had never seen a high school student or even a college student who “This is where I’m learning about sustainability. That’s actually knew how to write one and write it well. I was where we can produce the things we need without so proud.”—PAL Academy Student destroying the environment and using up all the resources. We use it, then replace it!” —TESS Academy Student
14 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
¾¾ MONTGOMERY COLLEGE The Montgomery College Middle College at MIDDLE COLLEGE Northwood program prepares Northwood students to earn a Maryland high school diploma, as well as AT NORTHWOOD obtain college credits towards an associate of arts DO YOU WANT TO— (AA) or science (AS) degree from Montgomery prepare for and take college classes while College, one of the nation’s premiere community still in high school? colleges. Highly motivated students have the potential to earn an AA or AS degree from get a head start on completing college? Montgomery College by the time they graduate have the opportunity to earn an associate’s from high school. degree by the time you graduate from high school? The program consists of a mixture of high school courses, Advanced Placement courses and have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s corresponding test scores, CLEP (College-Level degree as quickly as two years after you Examination Program) exams, Montgomery College graduate from high school? courses taught at the high school, and Montgomery College courses taught on the college campus to Students in the Montgomery College Middle meet the degree goal. It is designed to be easily College Program at Northwood can count on… transferred to other degree programs within the a rigorous preparation for high school and University System of Maryland. An AA or AS degree college could enable students to complete a four-year a dedicated support system to help you meet bachelor’s degree in only two years after high school the criteria to take college classes while still graduation. in high school
the opportunity to earn college credits from Montgomery College that transfer into degree programs in the University System of Maryland
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 15 WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL
12601 Dalewood Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland 20906 • 301-929-2050 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/wheatonhs
¾¾ BIOSCIENCE ACADEMY ¾ ¾ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— (AOE) understanding diseases such as diabetes, sickle cell ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— anemia, and hypercholesterolemia? understanding how things work? diagnosing and treating cancer? becoming a key player in helping to shape a exploring how the human body functions at an better world? optimal level? exploring the vast opportunities that lie in the investigating the variety of interventions involved in broad area of engineering? the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease? designing and constructing robots, highways, using data acquisition software to monitor body func- circuits, and planes? tions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary actions, and respiratory and cardiovascular operation? earning college credit while still in high school? applying the latest in DNA technology to identify a using computer-aided drawing and design tools? body? ALL students who are part of the Academy of ALL students who are part of the Bioscience Academy Engineering can count on… will have an opportunity to… problem-based learning activities focused on the learn about diseases that impact people in our design process, collaboration, and communication community hands-on authentic applications of math, science, support your learning in both biology and chemistry and technology
access and learn from bioscience professionals in our access to and training on industry-standard equip- community during monthly Lunch and Learns ment and software design relevant projects that can make a difference opportunities to learn from and work with practic- in people’s lives ing engineers dissect a kidney, eyeball, heart, elbow, and fetal pig, participation in related competitions on the regional, while learning about systems and life processes state, and national levels engage in opportunities for leadership in the school community and create a capstone project “I learned to never give up even if the class seemed challenging. In the end, the hard work will pay off. I “The hands-on experiences in this academy are amazing! know that I will be successful in a career that I love.” They have given me an advantage over other students —AOE Student entering the medical field.” —Bioscience Student
16 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL
¾ ¾ACADEMY OF INFORMATION ¾ ¾INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL & TECHNOLOGY (AOIT) CULTURAL STUDIES (IGCS) ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— ARE YOU INTERESTED IN— computer animation and/or programming? enrolling in up to four college courses with reduced tuition while still in high school? website mastery and/or database administration? performing, playing music, and creating art? investigating global issues, learning world earning college credit while in high school? languages while improving your ability to prestigious and exciting careers that pay well? research and write? on-the-job training from local IT becoming a studio musician and composing professionals? music and beats for famous artists? leadership positions throughout high school? creating your own artistic creations on state- of-the-art computers? earning scholarships for college? becoming a lawyer, professor, journalist, ALL Wheaton AOIT students can count on… community leader, or world traveler? a comprehensive program where students learn learning about people, places, and human about the current IT industry interactions all around the world? internships for qualified rising seniors ALL IGCS students can count on…
opportunities to be involved in an IT club such as choosing the academy pathway that most interests CyberPatriots you: Digital Music, Digital Art, or Global Studies building relationships with professionals who hold working with state-of-the-art technology to jobs in information technology create original art or music or connect with students and cultures around the world “It was my first job experience…The most interesting meeting and learning from working professionals aspect of the experience was the contrast between the in music, the arts, and humanities world of high school and that of work; it was much accessing support in transitioning to high school different than I expected, in a very positive way.” and progressing through increasingly challenging —AOIT Student coursework pursuing enrollment in multiple Advanced Placement courses and in up to four college courses while still in high school
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 17 APPLICATION-ONLY PROGRAMS*
The following application programs are Poolesville High School— available to DCC students enrolled in A Whole School Magnet Montgomery County Public Schools. For Poolesville High School program and application information, visit the Coordinator Phone: 301-972-7976 websites below or contact each program office. www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/ poolesvillehs Biomedical Program • Global Ecology House • Humanities House* Wheaton High School • Science, Mathematics, Phone: 301-929-2068 Computer Science House* www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/ * Geographic restrictions apply. wheatonhs Communication Arts Program (CAP) Science, Mathematics, Computer Science Montgomery Blair High School Magnet Program Montgomery Blair High School Coordinator Phone: 301-649-2854 Coordinator Phone: 301-649-8240 http://cap.mbhs.edu www.mbhs.edu/departments/magnet Engineering Program Thomas Edison High School of Technology Wheaton High School Career and Technology Education Programs Phone: 301-929-2068 Thomas Edison High School of Technology www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/ School Counseling Office wheatonhs Phone: 301-929-2181 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/edison Programme Visual Art Center (VAC) Richard Montgomery High School Albert Einstein High School Coordinator Phone: 301-610-8100 VAC Phone: 301-962-1027 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/rmhs www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/vac Leadership Training Institute (LTI) John F. Kennedy High School Coordinator Phone: 301-962-5930 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/ kennedyhs/programs/lti/index.aspx
*Geographic restrictions may apply.
Note: Grade 8 students who live in the DCC may apply to application-only programs, but MUST also participate in the DCC Choice process in Round 1. MILESTONES
18 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Frequently Asked Questions MILESTONES
Will all students be assigned to their first choice Downcounty Consortium high school? Every effort is made to assign students to their first choice school. However, some students may be assigned to a school other than their first choice.
Are students guaranteed an assignment to their base high school? Students are guaranteed their base school if (1) it is selected as first choice on the Choice form or (2) it is selected as second choice AND the first choice school is not available.
Will bus transportation be provided to all five DCC high schools? Transportation is provided for students who live within the Downcounty Consortium attendance area and beyond walking distance of their assigned DCC high school. Walking distance is determined by Montgomery County Public Schools and is approximately two miles for high school students.
Who is eligible to participate in academy programs? All students who participate in the Choice process may participate in academy programs.
What do the five DCC high schools have in common? All five schools offer a variety of engaging and challenging core academic and elective courses, innovative programs, activities, clubs, and athletics. They also offer numerous Honors and Advanced Placement courses and programs for special education and ESOL students.
Will DCC students be able to participate in the half-day career and technology education programs at Thomas Edison High School of Technology (TEHST)? Once enrolled in their assigned MCPS high school, students are eligible to apply to TEHST for one of its half-day career and technology education programs. Bus transportation is provided. For further information, contact TEHST at 301-929-2181.
How can parents and students learn more about the DCC high schools? Parents and students are encouraged to attend one of the evening information meetings and all five DCC high school open houses in the fall. For questions about academy programs and course offerings, visit the website at www. montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/ and/or contact the academy coordinator at each high school.
Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 19 Published by the Department of Materials Management for the Division of Consortia Choice and Application Program Services Spring Mill Field Office, 11721 Kemp Mill Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20902 Phone: 301-592-2040 • Fax: 301-649-2155 1470.15ct • Editorial, Graphics & Publishing Services • 5K • 9/15