MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON MILESTONES The Choice Process and Academy Programs • FALL 2011 My Areas of Interests As a middle school student, you have great curiosity and a wide range of interests. On the chart below, list some of your top interests (art, volunteering, working with people, music, robotics, computers, science, etc.). Using the Milestones booklet, information you already know about each high school and the schools’ websites, highlight the various academies/programs at each high school that would best support each of your interest areas. The goal is to capture how you can explore your interests at each of the high schools!

Interest Interest Interest Interest Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Wheaton

Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Northwood

Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Kennedy

Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Einstein

Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Academy/Program/Extracurricular Blair Contents

Did You Know?...... 2 Introduction...... 3 The Downcounty Consortium (DCC)...... 3 Choice Process Description...... 3 Choice Process—Rounds 1 and 2...... 3 Downcounty Consortium High School Base Areas...... 3 Transportation...... 3 Montgomery Blair High School Downcounty Consortium Middle Schools...... 3 Choice Process...... 4 Choice Process Timeline...... 5 Montgomery Blair High School...... 6 Entrepreneurship & Business Management Academy...... 6 Human Service Professions Academy...... 7 International Studies & Law Academy...... 8 Media Literacy Academy...... 9 Albert Einstein High School Science, Technology, Engineering & Math Academy...... 10 Albert Einstein High School...... 11 Finance, Business Management & Marketing Academy...... 11 International Baccalaureate Program (IB)...... 12 Renaissance Academy...... 13 Visual & Performing Arts Academy ...... 14 John F. Kennedy High School...... 15 Business Management Academy...... 15 Health Careers Academy...... 16 John F. Kennedy High School International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB)...... 17 Media Communications Academy...... 18 Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC)...... 19 Northwood High School...... 20 Humanities, Art & Media Academy...... 20 Musical Theatre Academy...... 21 Politics, Advocacy & Law Academy...... 22 Technological, Environmental & Systems Sciences Academy...... 23 Northwood High School Wheaton High School...... 24 Bioscience Academy...... 24 Engineering Academy...... 25 Information Technology Academy...... 26 Institute for Global & Cultural Studies ...... 27 Application-Only Programs...... 28 Frequently Asked Questions...... 29 Downcounty Consortium Map...... 30 Wheaton High School Choices Explorer...... Back Cover Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 1 Did You Know?

Tips for Success from DCC Trivia: Current DCC Students: There are nearly 14,900 middle and high school students in the DCC. Get along with people and respect them. Each year, 48-50 percent of Grade 8 students rank a non-base DCC high Pick a high school that will help school as their 1st choice. you reach your future goals. On average, each DCC high school is made up of 41 percent non-base students. Do not pick a school based on where The DCC Choice process is your friends are going. in its 9th year of operation. The majority of DCC families Finish your school work and rank their school choices based on take challenging classes. academy programs/offerings.

DCC high schools draw students from Get involved in extracurricular more than 9 middle schools. activities. They are fun and you make new friends. Over 2,000 students participate in the DCC Choice process each year. Take school The DCC has 22 academy programs. seriously—don’t blow it off, but also give yourself a In recent years, about 97 percent of break and have some fun. Grade 8 students have received their 1st or 2nd choice DCC high school. Get to know your Bus transportation is available to all 5 teachers. They care DCC high schools for DCC residents who live more about you and will than 2 miles from their assigned school. help you. Once in high school, fewer than 2 percent of the students in Grades Make your grades your #1 priority. 9–11 have requested to participate Those will get you everywhere in life. in the Change of Choice process.

2 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Introduction

The Downcounty Consortium (DCC) Montgomery Blair High School Base Area Welcome to the Downcounty Consortium! The DCC is made up of five ■■East Silver Spring / Takoma Park / Piney Branch Elementary Schools high schools and their feeder middle and elementary schools. All five ■■Montgomery Knolls / Pine Crest Elementary Schools high schools—Montgomery Blair, Albert Einstein, John F. Kennedy, ■■New Hampshire Estates / Oak View Elementary Schools Northwood, and Wheaton—offer students a comprehensive education, ■■Rolling Terrace Elementary School including Honors and Advanced Placement courses, numerous athletic ■■The eastern portion of the Sligo Creek Elementary School service area and extracurricular activities, and a variety of outstanding academy Albert Einstein High School Base Area programs. Academy programs are small learning communities that ■■Highland Elementary School include sequences of courses designed around fields of high interest to ■■Oakland Terrace Elementary School students. These programs help students make meaningful connections ■■Rock View Elementary School among their academics, their interests, and their future goals. ■■Woodlin Elementary School ALL five high schools offer exciting opportunities for students. An overview of the DCC academy programs is included in this booklet. John F. Kennedy High School Base Area Students, explore your options at ALL five schools! ■■Bel Pre / Strathmore Elementary Schools ■■Georgian Forest Elementary School Choice Process Description ■■Glenallan Elementary School TheChoice process is a high school lottery assignment process for Grade ■■Harmony Hills Elementary School 8 students in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) who reside Northwood High School Base Area in the Downcounty Consortium area or attend a DCC middle school. ■■Arcola Elementary School Students and their parents participate by completing a Choice form and ■■Forest Knolls Elementary School ranking the five DCC high schools in order of preference. Factors in the ■■Glen Haven Elementary School lottery assignment process may include the total number of available ■■Highland Elementary School seats, choice ranking, sibling link, socioeconomic status, and gender. ■■Highland View Elementary School While every effort is made to assign students to their first choice, some ■■Kemp Mill Elementary School students may be assigned to a school other than their first choice. ■■Western portion of the Sligo Creek Elementary School service area Choice Process—Rounds 1 and 2 Wheaton High School Base Area There are two rounds in the Choice process. ■■Brookhaven Elementary School • Round 1 takes place in November. It is for Grade 8 DCC residents ■■Sargent Shriver Elementary School only (including private and home schooled students). ■■Viers Mill Elementary School • Students who participate in Round 1 will receive a high school ■■Weller Road Elementary School assignment letter in early February. ■■Wheaton Woods Elementary School • Round 2 occurs in February. It is for students on transfer into a DCC Transportation middle school, those who did not get their first choice in Round 1, and those who are new DCC residents. Students who reside within the DCC attendance area and beyond • Students who participate in Round 2 will receive a high school walking distance of their assigned DCC high school, as determined by assignment letter in late March. MCPS, are provided bus transportation to all five schools. Parents of students who do not receive their first choice school in Downcounty Consortium Middle Schools Round 1 may participate in Round 2 by submitting a written request to the Division of Consortia Choice and Application Program Services Argyle Middle School: 301-460-2400 (DCCAPS) to resubmit their child’s original choices. Written requests Eastern Middle School: 301-650-6650 must be received in the DCCAPS office by the February due date. (For Col. E. Brooke Lee Middle School: 301-649-8100 the DCCAPS address or fax number, see page 5). A. Mario Loiederman Middle School: 301-929-2282 Downcounty Consortium Newport Mill Middle School: 301-929-2244 High School Base Areas Parkland Middle School: 301-438-5700 All students have a base high school that is determined by their home Silver Spring International Middle School: 301-650-6544 address. Assignment to a student’s base high school is guaranteed if (1) Sligo Middle School: 301-649-8121 the base school is indicated as first choice on the Choice form or (2) it is indicated as second choice and the first choice school is not available. Takoma Park Middle School: 301-650-6444

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 3 Choice Process

Preparing for the Choice Process In the fall, Downcounty Consortium parents and students will receive information announcing dates of DCC evening information meetings and high school open houses. DCC Grade 8 students will also have the opportunity to hear information about the Choice process and the five high schools from a school counselor.

The Choice Form Montgomery County Public Schools DOWNCOUNTY CONSORTIUM Choice Form for students entering Round 1

Official address changes can only be made through your school's counseling office. Student ID: Round 1 Grade: Current School:

To the Parents/Guardians of: Sample Student In mid October, a preprinted Choice form will be mailed to the homes of MCPS Grade 8 students Base School 11721 Kemp Mill Rd who reside in the DCC. Silver Spring, MD 20902 Fill bubbles like this

Step 1: Enter your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th choices by shading in one circle per box. • Students who attend a Consortia middle school will return the signed form to their middle Each school may be marked only once. All five choices must be completed. school. If you would like your child to attend the base school, select the base school as 1st choice. If you would like your child to attend the same school as a brother/sister, select the same school.

• Students who attend middle school outside the Consortia should return their form to DCCAPS. 1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice 4th Choice 5th Choice Blair Blair Blair Blair Blair • Completed Choice forms are due by the November due date. Einstein Einstein Einstein Einstein Einstein Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy Kennedy

Northwood Northwood Northwood Northwood Northwood Round 2 Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton Wheaton

Step 2: Mark all that apply. In early February, a preprinted Choice form will be mailed to the homes of Grade 8 students who 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. attend a DCC middle school on transfer or are new DCC residents. 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 • Students who attend a Consortia middle school will return the signed form to their middle 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. school. I have ranked my choices and read the statement above. Parent/Guardian Signature ______Date ______• Completed Choice forms are due by the February due date. Student Signature ______Date ______Please Print Parent/Guardian Name ______Home Phone # ______

Parent/Guardian Cell Phone # ______Parent/Guardian Work Phone # ______Sibling Link 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. For students in Alternative programs, next year's school placement may supersede school assignments made through the Choice process. Parents may request that their Grade 8 child be assigned to the same high school as a sibling who is currently in Grade 9, 10, or 11 at a DCC school by completing the sibling link section on the Choice form. Failure to complete this section may result in sibling assignment to different schools. Choice Process Appeals All DCC students are subject to the school assignment lottery process except in some cases of students in special education or ESOL programs. Therefore, to be fair, a written request can be submitted to change high schools because of a hardship or unforeseen circumstances that warrant overriding the general applicable assignment factors. The first level of appeal is administered by the Division of Consortia Choice and Application Program Services. The second level of appeal is administered by the Office of the Chief Operating Officer, Montgomery County Public Schools. Decisions on appeals will occur within 30 days of receipt by the appropriate office. Change of Choice In February, students in Grades 9, 10, or 11 who wish to request a different DCC high school for the following school year may submit a Change of Choice request form. Change of Choice request forms will be available in early February at all five DCC high school counseling offices and the website, www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/. The Change of Choice process considers a variety of factors when reassigning students to schools. These factors include the number of available seats, socioeconomic status, and gender. If a Change of Choice request is denied, the parent may appeal the decision in writing as described above.

4 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Choice Process Timeline

Choice Process Timeline

• Downcounty Consortium high school evening information mailers sent to DCC Grade 8 students in September/ MCPS. October • Evening high school Options information meetings held at two local 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 reside within the DCC boundaries. November • Evening student enrollment held for parents of current private school and home schooled students who reside in the DCC. Please call 301-592-2040 to receive information about required documents.

Round 1

November • Choice forms due from Grade 8 students who reside within the DCC attendance area.

February • DCC high school assignment letters mailed to homes of Round 1 participants.

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 new DCC Grade 8 residents. • Written requests due to the DCCAPS office from parents of students who did not receive their February first choice 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 counseling 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.

Appeals

• Letters of appeal due to DCCAPS office from parents of students choosing to appeal the school April 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, 20902. The fax number is 301-649-8155.

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 5 Montgomery Blair High School Entrepreneurship & Business Management Academy the Academies at Montgomery Blair MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑being your own boss some day? ❑❑turning a hobby into a business? ❑❑running a company such as Microsoft, FUBU, or Gucci? ❑❑using your positive and winning attitude to make it to the top? ❑❑becoming the next face on the cover of Fortune magazine? ❑❑learning how to invest and create wealth?

If so, the Entrepreneurship Student quotes about the & Business Management Entrepreneurship & Business Academy is for YOU! Management Academy— You could be a future entrepreneur. Come and explore your Entrepreneurship has helped me understand what I business interests through the Entrepreneurship & Business Management Academy. want“ to do and it has helped me with my other classes. Through this academy I have won county and regional business plan Entrepreneurship & Business competitions, had an article in a large local newspaper about Management Academy my business, and got a chance to visit the White House.” Being the leader of a business, large or small, requires a variety of skills that are useful in all walks of life. A person “I had a lot of ideas, but learning about entrepreneurship with entrepreneurial spirit sets goals, takes calculated and marketing helped me to understand I can be a business risks to reach those goals, and develops creative solutions. This academy will provide students with the business person. The business I started in class resulted in a $30,000 and interpersonal skills needed to manage a business profit last year and resulted in an article about me in the successfully. Sunday Washington Post and a story about me on Channel 9 News. Through this, I finished in the top 10 in a national business plan competition, and earned a scholarship to college.”

“My academy gave me the chance to gain real experiences that I don’t get in other classes. I had an internship in a credit union and learned how banking worked. I gained college credit for my accounting class and got to go to New York City on a wholesale buying trip where I made money off the products we bought. I won a business plan competition, and we got to do marketing for a local team that plays on the same level ■■ Montgomery Blair High School ■■ 51 University Blvd., East as professional minor-league teams. ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20901 For more information,” visit ■■ 301-649-2800 ■■ www.mbhs.edu http://academies.mbhs.edu

6 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Human Service Professions Academy the Academies at Montgomery Blair MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

Do you enjoy— ❑❑working with pre-school and elementary aged children? ❑❑playing sports or working with athletes? ❑❑listening and advising others? ❑❑helping people in your community? ❑❑teaching other people?

Do you often— ❑❑think about the relationship between wellness and your health? ❑❑think about the statement, “You are what you eat?” ❑❑question whether the treatment of others is fair and just? What do students say ❑❑wonder why people behave in a certain way? about the Human Service Professions Academy? Human Service Professions This academy is one of the most hands-on academies Academy in the school. I enjoyed experiences with pre-K and high In today’s multicultural society, students who have the “ school students while taking the classes “Early Childhood heart, mind, and desire to serve their community must be versed in the languages and cultures of their community as Development” and the “Foundations of Curriculum and well as in the general psychology of human behavior. This Instruction.” The courses in this academy helped me decide academy will provide students with career guidance in the what I wanted to do in my future. I want to be an elementary following areas: school teacher.” ❑❑early childhood development “This academy offers students classes and opportunities to ❑❑health and fitness experiment with options for career choices.” ❑❑psychology and social services “The Human Service Professions Academy provides us with hands on experience in our chosen career field. It also provides us with opportunities to intern and to take electives in that particular strand. For more information,” visit http://academies.mbhs.edu

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 7 International Studies & Law Academy the Academies at Montgomery Blair MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

Do you like to— ❑❑learn about other countries and cultures? ❑❑discuss controversial legal and political issues of the day? ❑❑meet interesting people from different backgrounds? Do you find yourself asking— ❑❑why there is so much violence and conflict in the world? ❑❑what the global war on terror is all about? ❑❑why some nations are so rich while others are so poor? International Studies ❑❑how the law affects me and society? & Law Academy In an article the world famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma stated that Are you interested in examining— “Now, more than ever… we cannot afford not to know the ❑❑different political and economic systems thoughts, the habits, the ways of life of other people.” Our around the world? nation and the world demand a generation of students who ❑❑causes and solutions to world health and understand and can influence complicated and evolving domestic and international developments. Academy classes wealth issues? and activities provide a broad and solid foundation in the ❑❑the role of the law in today’s national and study of world history, current events, political systems, international environment? domestic and international law, economics, languages and cultures. We welcome any student who desires to learn, grow and take action to change our world for the better! Quotes from students in the International Studies & Law Academy— I chose the International Studies and Law Academy because“ given the direction the world is going, if you’re not informed, you’re left behind!”

“I chose this academy because I believe it is our obligation as citizens of the world to learn about major issues and history. The International Studies and Law Academy promotes this kind of awareness through engaging classes taught by the best ■■ Montgomery Blair High School teachers in the school. ■■ 51 University Blvd., East ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20901 For more information,” visit ■■ 301-649-2800 http://academies.mbhs.edu ■■ www.mbhs.edu

8 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Media Literacy Academy the Academies at Montgomery Blair MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑producing a TV show? ❑❑being a radio announcer or DJ? ❑❑working for a newspaper or magazine? ❑❑writing a book, play, or script? ❑❑designing Web pages, computer art, or graphics? ❑❑becoming an actor, artist, or musician?

If so, the Media Literacy Academy is for YOU! Comments from Media Literacy Students who love to communicate using a variety of media Students about Academy Week— and are interested in analyzing the media messages of others will enjoy the courses offered by the Media Literacy What I loved about Academy Week was to watch Tom Academy. McBride“ play, and listening to him talk about the industry was Media Literacy Academy very informative.” Media messages surround us. They influence our behavior “…I enjoyed when they talked about how they made a movie and attitudes about all aspects of our lives—personal, about Silver Spring and that Montgomery Blair High School financial, political, social, recreational and educational. Media literacy gives us the tools to critically analyze, was the ONLY high school back in the days…” evaluate and produce communications successfully through text, moving images, still images and sound. “What I enjoyed about the speaker of one of my sessions was when he performed two of his songs and when he talked about This academy will provide students with authentic experiences in creating and using media responsibly to how he applied what he learned in music theory to making inform, persuade, and educate through mass media, visual music.. media and performance. For ”more information, visit http://academies.mbhs.edu

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 9 Science, Technology, ENGINEERING & MATH Academy the Academies at Montgomery Blair MONTGOMERY BLAIR HIGH SCHOOL

Do you see yourself— ❑❑working in a lab as a research scientist, experimenting and solving problems? ❑❑working with a team to build skyscrapers, motorcycles, highways, or rockets? ❑❑writing computer games, building robots, or designing computer networks? ❑❑practicing medicine as a doctor, physical therapist, nurse, or veterinarian? ❑❑working in the field as an environmental scientist or marine biologist? ❑❑writing a book about the mysteries of the universe? Quotes from academy students If so, the Science, Technology, about participating in the Engineering & Math Montgomery County Science Fair— Academy is for YOU! From this experiment, I got a chance to use one of the Science, Technology, Engineering expensive“ machines—the UV/VIS. I also experienced different & Math Academy ways to overcome challenges during my research.” Solutions to the problems of the 21st Century will demand —Winner, Robert H. Herndon Award teams of experts skilled in problem-solving strategies, “I think I learned more about research than the judges data analysis tools, computer software and hardware, and scientific and mathematical principles. The students in learned about my project at the Montgomery County Science this academy will be supported and guided in the area that Fair. I also made some great contacts. corresponds to their interests and individual strengths— Technology, Science, Math, or Computer Programming. For more information,” visit Student strengths will be analyzed with a mentor to research http://academies.mbhs.edu and prepare for career paths which fit each individual.

■■ Montgomery Blair High School ■■ 51 University Blvd., East ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20901 ■■ 301-649-2800 ■■ www.mbhs.edu

10 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty finance, business management & marketing academy ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑becoming fiscally responsible? ❑❑learning real-life monetary skills? ❑❑entering the business world after college? ❑❑understanding how the financial world works? ❑❑exploring how money can work for you? ❑❑researching the stock market? Here is what students Then the Academy of Finance, say about AOF— Business Management & Marketing at Einstein is for YOU! The Academy of Finance is one of those programs that prepares you for life after high school, offering you exciting and Academy of Finance (AOF)­ “ rigorous courses along with a hands-on professional internship.” — a member of the National Academy Foundation (NAF) “The Academy of Finance has definitely been a motivation The AOF is a college-preparatory program that for me to work harder and improve myself academically. It has addresses the needs of the financial services industry helped me to mature. by providing high school students with intensive course work in economic and business principles as well as a ” comprehensive look at career options. Students may participate in a paid summer internship between their junior and senior years and complete a college course outside of the school day during their senior year. The course may be taken either on campus or online.

■■ Albert Einstein High School ■■ 11135 Newport Mill Road ■■ Kensington, MD 20895 ■■ 301-929-2200 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/einsteinhs

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 11 International Baccalaureate Program (IB)

ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— O • ❑❑challenging classes with high academic ND WO U RL standards? M D L E S ❑ C ❑knowing how to communicate your ideas in D H

speaking and writing? O O

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❑❑learning to think critically? G L

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❑earning a diploma and college credit that is E

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recognized worldwide? •

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Then the International M Baccalaureate Program (IB) at Einstein is for YOU! The IB program is a challenging liberal arts curriculum for Reflections about Einstein’s highly motivated students. It seeks to educate the whole IB program from current individual, giving an “education for life.” The curriculum is college freshmen— the same the world over, and encourages students to expand IB helped credit wise!!! I received around 12 credits their knowledge with a global perspective. without“ even having to take any classes. Another IB alumnus of Einstein was able to receive about 40 credits entering!!! … If you’re taking IB and you have a class that’s not in the IB curriculum, take the AP version or do the smart thing and take the AP exam that’s linked to the IB exam you’re going to take.” —U of MD College Park Student

Underclassmen: “1) Take Calc before you graduate. I didn’t and now I’m regretting it. It sounded like a great idea not to take math my senior year, but it was not. (2) Learn time management. Week two of classes, I went to bed at 4:00 a.m. before my 8:00 class because I didn’t do enough on the weekend. I have since learned my lesson. (3) Take lots of APs and IBs. I have a friend who came with 28 credits and was considered a second semester sophomore. I have another friend who tested out of three classes. “ —Rensalear Polytechnic Institute Student

“… Adjusting to the college academic atmosphere for me has ■■ Albert Einstein High School been greatly helped by the preparation IB gave me. Overall, the ■■ 11135 Newport Mill Road time management skills I acquired my senior year have allowed ■■ Kensington, MD 20895 ■■ 301-929-2200 me to enjoy and succeed in my classes as well as maintain a ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ healthy balance with extracurricular activities. schools/einsteinhs —Swarthmore” College Student

12 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty RENAISSANCE ACADEMY

ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑developing your critical reading skills? ❑❑designing your own program of study? ❑❑exploring the arts and sciences? ❑❑earning college credits while in high school? ❑❑taking interesting and challenging courses?

Then the Renaissance Academy at Einstein is for YOU! Renaissance Academy The Renaissance Academy emphasizes the development of mathematical, reading, writing, and public speaking skills Student quote about the and their application in the arts and sciences. Students will Einstein Renaissance Academy— master the skills, facts, and theories of academics necessary for college and postgraduate success. The Renaissance Academy has allowed me to take a combination“ of classes that interest me. It is a well-rounded experience.”

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 13 Visual & Performing Arts Academy

ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑developing an artistic and intellectual philosophy about your craft? ❑❑performing and creating? ❑❑learning in an environment that recognizes and develops your talents? ❑❑compiling a comprehensive portfolio of your artistic endeavors? ❑❑engaging in an environment that fosters aesthetic education and encourages an What do VAPA students say emphasis on musical, spatial, bodily about the academy? kinesthetic, interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligences? The Academy of Visual and Performing Arts has an“ eclectic variety of performing and arts classes. There is Have you ever thought something for everyone -- dance, music, painting, music about being a(n)— technology, theatre and more. You really feel like you are ❑❑acting coach, choreographer, sound developing skills that you can use for the rest of your life.” technician, or director? “VAPA is a great artistic outlet and I really enjoy having ❑ ❑industrial designer, art critic, dance the opportunity to do the things I am so passionate about in therapist, or museum curator? school.” ❑❑music director, performer, composer, or jazz musician? “The teachers are very supportive and understanding. They Then the Academy of help us expand on our creativity and reinforce the importance Visual & Performing Arts of the arts in society.” at Einstein is for YOU! “Being part of the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts Visual & Performing Arts has allowed for me to meet a lot of cool creative people that Academy (VAPA) share the same interests as I do. The Visual & Performing Arts Academy is designed as a pre-professional high school experience focused around ” the areas of dance, visual art, music and theatre. Motivated students are provided and involved in rigorous arts disciplines and academic programs that when combined, create an innovative and comprehensive education.

■■ Albert Einstein High School ■■ 11135 Newport Mill Road ■■ Kensington, MD 20895 ■■ 301-929-2200 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/einsteinhs

14 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty BUSINESS MANAGEMENT ACADEMY

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL

Do you want to— ❑❑lead a small business or a corporation? ❑❑market your products and ideas? ❑❑manage employees ❑❑understand how the economy works? ❑❑play the stock market?

Join the Business Management Academy! The Business Management Academy prepares students for careers as leaders in domestic and international commerce. Students will learn how to manage workers and lead companies in a global society. Business Management Academy students gain valuable skills in finance, entrepreneurship, visioning, problem-solving, and productivity.

■■ John F. Kennedy High School ■■ 1901 ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20902 ■■ 301-929-2111 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/kennedyhs

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 15 health careers academY

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— Quotes from students in the ❑❑becoming a doctor, nurse, or physical Health Careers Academy— therapist? I love the Health Careers Academy! This academy ❑❑learning about student wellness and has“ an environment in which you are repeatedly encouraged physical rehabilitation? to do your best. They teach you about sports medicine and ❑❑studying how the human body works? management and medical careers while having fun through ❑❑taking challenging science and research projects and field trips.” courses? “The Health Careers Academy gives students new ideas and experiences. Things learned in this academy are beneficial and Then join the Health Careers Academy! helpful to one’s future career goals. The Health Careers Academy offers two rigorous pathway ” programs in Medical Careers and Health Careers. Medical Careers Program: The Medical Careers Program is an academic career development program that enables students to explore careers in the health care industry and learn skills related to patient care practiced in hospitals and long-term facilities. Successful students will receive Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training and certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with the Maryland Board of Nursing Health Careers: This pathway prepares students for careers in physical rehabilitation and wellness. Students intern in medical offices, hospitals, and health care centers. Students take challenging science, medicine, and research courses to prepare for careers in this field.

■■ John F. Kennedy High School ■■ 1901 Randolph Road ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20902 ■■ 301-929-2111 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/kennedyhs

16 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty International Baccalaureate Program (IB)

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— Here is what students in the ❑❑taking challenging and exciting classes graduating class of 2012 focused on thinking and writing? have to say about IB— ❑❑pursuing rigorous academic standards in all The IB Academy is very challenging, but the teachers are subjects? awesome“ and make the courses interesting!” ❑❑earning a diploma that is recognized worldwide? “I feel that the IB Academy has pushed me to do my best and has helped me a lot. My teachers never give up on me and ❑❑being part of a small learning community of always set their standards high. Now, I have high standards for highly motivated students? myself.”

If so, then the International “I think IB is where you learn to conquer fears and fulfill Baccalaureate Program your dreams. (IB) is for YOU! International Baccalaureate ” Program (IB) The International Baccalaureate Program is a small learning community that prepares highly motivated students to be competitive at the university level. The IB curriculum features a global perspective which aims to encourage the skills of independent research and investigation, the use of initiative and creativity, and the application of skills and knowledge through both internally and externally moderated assessments. In order to obtain an IB Diploma, students must successfully complete one course from each of six groups—Language (Literature), Second Language, Individuals and Societies, Experimental Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science, and the Arts—plus an extended essay, Theory of Knowledge course, and a requisite number of creativity, action and service hours. Students who complete the IB Diploma are uniquely prepared for university study. Most high school courses teach about academic subjects like history or biology or math. In the IB program, students learn how to be a historian, biologist, or mathematician. Further, students may earn college credits for their work in the IB program.

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Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 17 MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS Academy

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL

Do you— ❑❑shoot your own videos and photos? ❑❑like debate, public speaking, and performing? ❑❑create art or write music? ❑❑design websites, objects, and computer programs? ❑❑utilize your curiosity and ask who, what, why, where and how?

If so, then join the Media Communications Academy! The Media Communications Academy offers students three career pathway programs: Broadcast Journalism, Public Communication, and Creative Multi-Media. Students in Here is what Media these rigorous academic programs develop essential skills Communications students in self-expression, inquiry, and critical thinking. Taking have to say— advantage of our close proximity to Washington, DC, They set up chairs in the hallway at lunch and just students take field trips to see media in action. soaked up all the laughter and praise from everyone who loved Broadcast Journalism Pathway: The Broadcast Journalism “ their videos. Pathway prepares students for careers in television, radio, podcasting and other internet-based media. Students get “I’ve made at least 10 highlight reels for different athletes and “hands on” experience running WJFK, Kennedy’s award- winning television station. Students work with career helped them get scholarships. That felt great.” journalists, write new stories, produce shows, and intern with local and national media outlets. “We’ve been working on beats and cutting them to photos… It looks really cool and everyone loves to watch them.” Public Communication Pathway: Students in the Public Communication Pathway prepare for careers as public “TV class has ruined movies for me. I’m always looking at relations specialists, press secretaries, media directors, speech writers, lawyers, teachers and other advocates. the way they are made. Pathway courses build skills in creative writing, advocacy, and public speaking. ” Creative Multi-Media Pathway: The Creative Multi- Media Pathway allows students to develop skills in visual, performing, instrumental, and choral arts. Students prepare for media careers in filmmaking, graphic design, soundtrack production, and commercial advertising.

■■ John F. Kennedy High School ■■ 1901 Randolph Road ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20902 ■■ 301-929-2111 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/kennedyhs

18 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty NAVY JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS (NJROTC)

JOHN F. KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL

Do you want to— ❑❑develop your leadership ability? ❑❑demonstrate a high degree of self-reliance and discipline? ❑❑see the latest technology available for the defense of our nation? ❑❑serve your community? ❑❑participate in a wide rage of physical and academic activities? Did you know— ❑❑NJROTC at Kennedy has 100+ members in Grades 9-12? ❑❑Cadets can earn a varsity athletic letter for participating on one of these teams—Drill Team, Color Guard Team, or Rifle Team?

Become part of the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC)! Objectives of the NJROTC program are to develop informed What do students say and responsible citizens, strengthen character, help form about NJROTC? habits of self-discipline, and understand the need for Navy JROTC is a leadership program that has helped me constituted authority in a democratic society. Cadets plan, organize and direct all their activities under the guidance develop“ self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills to of the Naval Science instructors. They can participate in help me successfully meet life’s challenges.” field trips to the Naval Academy, the Pentagon, and various area military bases, such as a weeklong visit to the Norfolk “NJROTC has been a big help preparing me to manage my Virginia Naval Complex. Cadets can also attend a weeklong time better.” summer leadership camp and participate with the Company Drill Team, Color Guard, Air Rifle Team and Athletic Team. “I have been given opportunities to meet military Our teams and awards provide valuable accomplishments professionals and visit Navy ships, including an aircraft carrier. for students to add to their résumés and give them an edge in college applications and scholarships. We also “NJROTC provides me with information and skills to make provide opportunities for cadets to attend Youth Leadership sound career choices. Seminars in Annapolis and Valley Forge. Recent cadets who have graduated from Kennedy’s NJROTC ” program have been offered full scholarships at such schools as the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Florida Institute of Technology.

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 19 humanities, art & media Academy

NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Do you want to win an Academy Award for— ❑❑screenwriting? ❑❑directing? ❑❑cinematography? ❑❑documentary? ❑❑best film?

Be on your way toward that goal with the Academy of Humanities, Art & Media (HAM). Here is what students have to say about the academy— Be the producer, the camera person, the editor, or even the director of your own production. Create dramas, comedies, As part of WNHS (Northwood High School’s television or documentary videos. Be part of a real radio and TV and radio station), I get to report on news around the school. station as the DJ, reporter, production manager, promotions “ I even got to interview Philippe Cousteau, Jacque Cousteau’s manager and many other exciting and authentic jobs. Look at the impact of film and other media on our society. Who grandson!” knows? You too could win a HAM Academy Award. “We won the Environmental Film Festival this year!” A partnership with the American Film Institute highlights this enriching academy experience and will benefit your “I want to be a film maker and win an Academy Award. endeavors in its college preparatory work. I’m learning how to film, direct, edit video, and make a movie. I love it.”

Working Together For Our Community’s Future

■■ Northwood High School ■■ 919 University Boulevard, West ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20901 ■■ 301-649-8088 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/northwoodhs

20 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Musical Theatre Academy

NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

The lights! The sound! The stage! The applause! It’s Broadway! The performing arts come to Northwood in the form of The Academy of Musical Theatre! Do you want to— ❑❑dance? ❑❑design sets and stages? ❑❑sing? ❑❑arrange music? ❑❑act? ❑❑direct performances? ❑❑play an instrument?

Then come be a part of the musical What do students say about the theatre experience at Northwood. Musical Theatre Academy? Experience technical production, vocal and instrumental Dancing is my dream. I love to move to the music and music, dance, and dramatics. A collaboration with show the people what it means to me through my movements.” the University of Maryland, College Park, provides “ opportunities for you to work with college students and “I want to go on to be a musician and win a Grammy. I love professors on various dramatic and musical projects throughout your Northwood career. to sing and be on the stage in front of so many people when they applaud.”

“Acting is my life. When I’m on stage I become my character and the audience doesn’t even know it’s me. They think I am the character. I love it!”

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 21 Politics, Advocacy & Law Academy

NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Do you want to— ❑❑argue a case in front of the Supreme Court? ❑❑sit on the Supreme Court as a judge? ❑❑fight for your rights? ❑❑run for public office, maybe even President? ❑❑run a political campaign? ❑❑investigate crimes, like on CSI?

If so, the Politics Advocacy & Law Academy is for you Examine our government. Be articulate in the areas of policy, citizenship, and advocacy. Look at law, politics, law Student quotes about enforcement, and public safety. Make a difference in your the academy— own life and the lives of others throughout our community. I got a job at a law firm this summer. They asked to Debate your way through trials or be the judge and bang write a brief. I knew how to do it. They had never seen a high the gavel. Experience the life of a police officer through “ school student or even a college student who actually knew how the Police Explorers or take fingerprints and hair samples to write one and write it well. I was so proud.” to help solve crimes. Campaign for a seat on student government and/or get involved in your community. The “I want to be a police officer when I graduate college. I’ve real-life politics of Northwood High School are yours to explore. learned how I can make that happen.” “Being a lawyer is my dream. I’ve watched every law show on TV and thought I knew it all. I’m learning more now.”

■■ Northwood High School ■■ 919 University Boulevard, West ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20901 ■■ 301-649-8088 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/northwoodhs

22 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Technological, Environmental & SystemS Sciences Academy NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑global warming? ❑❑green architecture? ❑❑energy conservation? ❑❑wildlife preservation? ❑❑green engineering? ❑❑alternative energy? ❑❑landscape design?

Prepare for your green future at Northwood Explore all these opportunities with the Academy of Technological, Environmental & Systems Sciences (TESS) Here is what students say at Northwood, where the great outdoors are a part of your about the academy— classroom. Be actively engaged in exploring environmental The environment is very important to me. I think we conditions and their implications for our community, state, nation, and world. Work with Green Schools, the can“ make changes and I’m learning how to do that.” Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the University of Maryland, College Park, and many others. Connect to all areas of “This is where I’m learning about sustainability. That’s where science, like biology, chemistry, and physics through we can produce the things we need without destroying the rigorous curricula connections within the academy. environment and using up all the resources. We use it, then replace it!”

“I’ve learned about all the endangered animals around the world and how we can change the way we live just a little bit and we can save them, like the panda bears and the whales.”

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 23 Bioscience Academy

WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑understanding diseases such as diabetes, sickle cell anemia, and HIV? ❑❑diagnosing and treating cancer? ❑❑exploring how the human body functions at an optimal level? ❑❑investigating the variety of interventions involved in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease? ❑❑using data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary actions, and respiratory and cardiovascular operation? ❑ Student quotes about the ❑applying the latest in DNA technology to Bioscience Academy— identify a body? I love my academy because it introduces me to the If so, then join the world I want to work in. I’m currently taking AP Biology and Bioscience Academy! I’m“ enjoying it because I can relate it to what I plan to study in Here is your chance to use the most recent laboratory and college.” computer equipment together with the latest research —Academy student, Class of 2011 to explore and apply concepts in science. Additional opportunities to participate in job shadowing, internships, “Being a part of a community of students with the same and college/business site visits reinforce the connection interests and I have, inspires me to work hard to reach my goals.” between school and your future. The academy staff will —Academy student, Class of 2011 give you individual attention and a supportive atmosphere for learning and succeeding. Our business partners “My experience in the Bioscience Academy has prepared me including the National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug for an internship with the National Cancer Institute. Administration, Bethesda Naval Medical Center, and the Catholic University of America will provide real-world —Academy student, Class” of 2011 experiences.

■■ Wheaton High School ■■ 12601 Dalewood Drive ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20906 ■■ 301-929-2050 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/wheatonhs

24 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty Academy of Engineering

WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑understanding how things work? ❑❑becoming a key player in helping to shape a better world? ❑❑exploring the vast opportunities that lie in the broad area of engineering? ❑❑designing and constructing robots, highways, circuits, and planes? ❑❑earning college credit while still in high school? ❑❑using computer-aided drawing and design tools? Academy of Engineering students in the graduating class of 2010 said— If so, then come join the Academy of Engineering! The work we do is actually the work they do in the real world of engineering, which means that I’m coming in with the Academy of Engineering (AOE)— “ skills colleges are looking for in a student.” National Alliance for Pre- Engineering Programs “In Civil Engineering and Architecture, we get to design our Project Lead The Way (PLTW) own projects where you’re glued to the screen watching it come Engineers have designed and created most of the world in to life. It’s awesome!” which we now live. Join the academy and participate in a nationally recognized rigorous curriculum that challenges “AOE—It’s been great! You’re respected for what you know, you to become actively engaged in hands-on learning not for what you are [gender]. It gives you good experience for experiences using math, science, and technology in meaningful ways. Work in our state-of-the-art facilities to the environment you’re going to work in. We get to network solve real-world problems important to society. Challenge with real engineers and work on real projects. It’s been a great yourself to approach issues from a broader perspective, to experience! collaborate, to communicate, and to think entrepreneurially. Here at Wheaton, you will experience intellectually ” challenging activities in various locations, working with talented people from Lockheed Martin, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, British Aeronautical Engineering, Carderock Division of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, and others in areas such as research, design, and development of new products and services.

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 25 Academy of INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— the connections between technological theory and the ❑❑computer animation and/or programming? workplace. Qualified students may participate in a paid summer internship between their junior and senior years, ❑❑website mastery and/or database administration? as well as various career-based experiences such as job ❑❑the “electrifying” details of how computers work shadowing, mentoring from IT professionals, field trips, and communicate? and college/industry site visits. You may choose one of three exciting pathways to experience—Programming, ❑ ❑college credit and industry certifications while in Networking/Hardware, or Information Resource Design. high school? Student quote— ❑❑prestigious and exciting careers that pay well? Nowhere else can you get to use programs and work If yes, then AOIT is the with software like we do here and get the experience to academy for YOU! demonstrate“ what we know to people in the industry. —AOIT student, Class of 2010 Academy of Information ” Technology (AOIT)—a member of the National Academy Foundation (NAF) The ever-evolving Internet and the convergence of information technologies are changing the way we work, learn, and play. Information technology is interdisciplinary by nature, borrowing ideas from many other disciplines, and producing tools that are used in nearly every field of study. Our Academy of Information Technology, recognized and endorsed by the National Academy Foundation, provides a rigorous academic curriculum that introduces the broad career opportunities available in today’s digital workforce.

At Wheaton, the personal, caring atmosphere of our academy will help you develop the necessary skills to succeed in higher education and beyond. With the support of local universities and colleges and such organizations as Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, Verizon, AT&T, NASA, Compaq, United Technologies, and Cisco, students explore

■■ Wheaton High School ■■ 12601 Dalewood Drive ■■ Silver Spring, MD 20906 ■■ 301-929-2050 ■■ www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ schools/wheatonhs

26 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL & CULTURAL STUDIES

WHEATON HIGH SCHOOL

Are you interested in— ❑❑enrolling in up to five college courses with free tuition while still in high school? ❑❑enjoying music art, English, world studies, and foreign languages? ❑❑becoming a studio musician and composing music and beats for famous artists? ❑❑becoming a lawyer, professor, journalist, community leader, or world traveler? ❑❑learning about people and places all around the world? ❑❑working with professional musicians? Here is what students in the IGCS academy have to say— If so, the Institute for Global I like Global Issues because it’s a fun and exciting and Cultural Studies (IGCS) at Wheaton High School is for you! class.“ You learn really interesting things about the world and it teaches you how to appreciate what you have. IGCS is The Institute for Global and Cultural Studies is dedicated to creating global citizens who explore global and cultural preparing me for college and life, and my teachers are great.” issues from multiple perspectives. IGCS students will have —IGCS student, class of 2011 the opportunity to experience the Digital Global Classroom while preparing for careers in an ever-changing international “I had no idea I could learn music without learning an community. IGCS is a unique collaboration among the instrument first, but in the iMac lab you can. I wrote a song Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, , and that I plan on publishing one day. I can’t believe we have all this Wheaton High School, designed to create and sustain a vibrant learning community through rigorous interdisciplinary at Wheaton! curricula and programs, as well as meaningful community ” —IGCS Digital Music student, class of 2010 involvement. The Digital Music and Digital Arts pathways provide students with comprehensive music and art instruction through the use of our state-of-the-art Apple iMac digital music and art laboratory. The music experience is enhanced for student musicians with master classes and rehearsals taught by principal musicians and guest conductors from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at Strathmore Hall. IGCS graduates will be prepared to compete for admission into colleges, universities and institutes of higher education, to successfully complete high education degrees, and to assume leadership roles in their own and the global community.

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 27 Application-Only Programs

Grade 8 students interested in applying to any of the following application programs should contact each program directly to request an application.

Communication Arts International Baccalaureate Program (CAP) Program (IB) Montgomery Blair High School Richard Montgomery High School Coordinator Phone: 301-649-2854 Coordinator Phone: 301-610-8100 http://cap.mbhs.edu/new www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/rmhs

Science, Mathematics, and — Computer Science Magnet A Whole School Magnet Montgomery Blair High School Poolesville High School Coordinator Phone: 301-649-8240 Coordinator Phone: 301-972-7976 www.mbhs.edu/departments/magnet www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/poolesvillehs • Global Ecology House Visual Art Center (VAC) • Humanities House* Albert Einstein High School • Science, Mathematics, Computer Science House* VAC Phone: 301-962-1027 * Geographic restrictions may apply. www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/vac Biomedical Magnet Program The Leadership Training Wheaton High School Institute (LTI) Phone: 301-929-2050 John F. Kennedy High School www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/wheatonhs Coordinator Phone: 301-962-5930 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/kennedyhs/lti/ Engineering Magnet Program Wheaton High School Academic, Technical, Phone: 301-929-2050 and Professional Career www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/wheatonhs Education Programs Thomas Edison High School of Technology School Counseling Office Phone: 301-929-2181 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/edison

Note: Students who reside in the DCC may apply to application-only programs, but MUST also participate in the DCC Choice Process in Round 1.

28 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Will transportation be provided to all five 5. Will DCC students be able to participate in DCC high schools? the half-day career and technology education Students who reside within the Downcounty courses Thomas Edison High School of Consortium attendance area and beyond walking Technology (TEHST)? distance of their assigned DCC high school, as Once enrolled in their assigned MCPS high school, determined by Montgomery County Public Schools, students are eligible to apply to TEHST for one are provided bus transportation. of its half-day career and technology education 2. Are students guaranteed an assignment to programs. Bus transportation is provided. For further information, contact TEHST at 301-929-2181. their base school? Students are guaranteed their base school if (1) it is 6. How can parents and students learn more selected as first choice on the Choice form or (2) it is about the DCC high schools? selected as second choice AND the first choice school Parents and students are encouraged to attend is not available. one of the evening information meetings and all 3. Who is eligible to participate in academy five DCC high school open houses in the fall. For questions about academy programs and course programs? offerings, contact the academy coordinator at All students who participate in the Choice process each high school and/or visit the website at www. may participate in academy programs. montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty/. 4. What do the five DCC high schools have in common? All five schools offer a variety of interesting and challenging academic and elective courses, innovative programs, extracurricular clubs, activities, and athletics. They also offer numerous Honors and Advanced Placement courses and programs for special education and ESOL students.

Downcounty Consortium Milestones: BLAIR • EINSTEIN • KENNEDY • NORTHWOOD • WHEATON 29 Downcounty Consortium Secondary Schools Parkland MS High School Middle School Middle School Service Area Argyle MS Montgomery Blair HS Base Area Parkland MS A r g y l e M S Albert Einstein HS Base Area

P a r k l a n d M S 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 t Wheaton HS Base Area d R l il John F. Kennedy HS h A. Mario Loiderman MS y V a ie L 0 0.5 1 2 rs M il l R d Wheaton HS C o l . E . Miles A . M a r i o S l i g o B r o o k e L e e M S L o i e d e r m a n M S Col. E. Brooke Lee MS

Newport Mill MS Univ ersity Blvd West Albert Einstein HS Northwood HS

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Montgomery County Public Schools - Division of Long-range Planning - October 11, 2011

30 www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/downcounty

Choices Explorer

When you think about your life as an adult…

…what do you see? Thinking about your future can be very exciting— especially when you have some idea of what you want to do and know the steps of how you can reach your goals. It is never too early to start thinking about your future. Here is a sure-fire way to get you thinking seriously about your future! Choices Explorer Sign on to this engaging, interesting and informative website designed for the middle school student! When you visit, you can: • Take an interest quiz that matches you up with possible careers • Get advice on high school courses • Search for college majors that meet your interests • Explore unusual careers • Ask the experts questions • Learn about a hobby or explore your own www.bridges.com Contact the Grade 8 counselor or media specialist at your local MCPS middle school for a username and password.

0255.12ct • Editorial, Graphics & Publishing Services • 10/11 • 5K