Education Guide Spring 2015

ed ed SPRING 2015

Advantages of Going Private

College Students’ Top Career Choices How to Be the Best Applicant Clockwise from the top left: Anne Rogers MBA student at VU; Fatima Garcia, undergraduate at Calumet College of St. Joseph; Lauren Tatina, sophomore at Lake Central HS; and Aidan Chism, student at Wilbur Wright Middle School.

We’re for students. For late nights.

Big games. And good friends.

We believe in working hard, getting somewhere, and then

giving back.

We encourage the pursuit of

happiness, fairness, excellence, and success.

We are nurses, biologists, linguists, accountants, marketers, musicians, and

most important, mentors.

We stand up: For community.

For opportunity. For self-discovery.

And for you.

THERE’S MORE TO BLUE.

indstate.edu

2 | Education Guide | March 20, 2015 A Special publication of the Times Media Co.

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From left: Jesse Caballero, Annmarie Rompca, Emenike Okafor and Janette Magallanes are currently first-year medical students at IU School of Medicine — Northwest.

Careers OF T LESLY BAILEY

here is a “perfect storm of need” brewing in the healthcare industry and region students are poised to alleviate the demand by preparing for health care careers. Healthcare is at the top of the list of most popular majors among area college and universities, followed by

4 | EDUCATION GUIDE | MARCH 20, 2015

business and law enforcement.

Pat Bankston, PhD, says an aging population is affecting the industry on both the patient and healthcare provider ends of the spectrum. Bankston is associate dean and director of the Indiana University school of medicine — Northwest as well as dean of the IUN college of health and human services in Gary.

“The fact is that we have a population of people who are getting older … the baby boomers who are reaching 65 and

Health care, business, are popular paths for region students

that blip in population means a lot of health care needs in the next 20 years. The need is created as they get older. There is a tremendous demand,” he says. “The physician population is aging and retiring as well as nursing and allied health professionals and all of the healthcare team so there is a shortage of everyone.

“In fact, with the expansion of healthcare insurance with the Affordable Health Care Act, the demographic issues with the aging population and supply of team members that will continue

for the next decade at least, the health care industry is considered the largest employer and fastest growing and most stable. Jobs in health care are very attractive.”

Sandie Phalen, director of marketing and development at University of Saint Francis in Crown Point, says nurses have no problem finding positions.“The nursing program teaches critical thinking and with nurses, there is such

continued on page 6 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

has made the Princeton Review’s list of Best Midwestern Colleges for the 11th straight year.

We’re for scholarships—big time! Indiana State awards more than $8 million in student financial awards each year. We’re for helping you graduate on time with a Sycamore Graduation Guarantee for new first time students, in which we work together to ensure you’ll graduate in four years or any remaining classes are free.

Life as a Sycamore is about growing tall and strong—through classes, research, creativity, campus involvement, and making a difference in communities in Indiana and around the world, thanks to international study opportunities.

We’re for preparing leaders in education, business, health and human services, chemistry, physics, math and computer science, technology, biology, criminology, and geology—even oceanography.

And that’s just for starters. Indiana State offers an impressive selection of academic programs across five colleges, and many degrees can be completed online. Check out our majors at www.indstate.edu.

hours of community service last year. Two-thirds of our graduates stay in Indiana, helping to implement a vision for a better tomorrow.

We’re modern. You’ll find newly renovated laboratories, academic, and wellness buildings.

Our most ambitious student housing upgrade ever is under way and our Student Recreation Center is the envy of many larger campuses.

Our campus is walkable. The Campus Cupboard and Barnes & Noble College bookstore offer much of what you need—and a city bus can take you when you just have to get to the mall!

There’s more to blue at Indiana State. More diversity, more friendly people, more distinctive programs with the offerings of a major university but the atmosphere of a small, close-knit campus.

We have more of the programs you want and the experience and affordability you need. Your future begins at State.

We’re true, blue, and loyal. Indiana State students, faculty, and staff contributed more than one million

indstate.edu

Indiana State University gives you more of what you’re looking for in a university from the moment you set foot on campus.

We’re for blue skies and a brighter future. We’re for recycling, wind power, and trees. We were Indiana’s first Tree Campus USA. We’re for service—Indiana State University has once again earned the Washington Monthly College Guide’s top ranking for community service by students among 277 national universities.

We’re for a great education and we’re for affordability—not only in tuition but in all student costs. For the fourth straight year, Forbes magazine has included Indiana State on its annual list of America’s Top Colleges while the university

Sycamore Preview Day The best way to learn more about Indiana State is to come to our beautiful campus. Sycamore Preview Days are special events designed for high school students, transfer students, and others interested in learning more about Indiana State and college life. Parents and families are welcome (and encouraged) to attend. It’s the best way to experience our energized and engaged campus.

The opportunities for the day include a tour of campus; meeting with academic advisors; and talking to a financial aid counselor to learn more about financial aid, scholarships, and other ways to finance your education.

To register for a Sycamore Preview Day or to schedule a personal visit, or for more information, go to indstate.edu/previewday.

Contact the Office of Admissions: admissions@indstate.edu 1-800-GO-TO-ISU 812-237-2121

A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 5

an open job market right now,” she says. “The medical laboratory program is quick – six semesters full time – and includes hematology, chemistry, microbiology and Calumet blood bank. Again, College of St. these are in high Joseph students demand in the Jenna Salczynski, job market. And center, and Nicole Gill, we offer partright, do research time options for in a lab class at working adults.” the college in Patrick Whiting.

Rush, director of publications, public relations and the foundation at South Suburban College, says among the community college’s top popular programs are radiologic technologist and occupational therapist assistant.

“Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays, on patients. Employment of radiologic technologist is projected to grow 21 percent from 2012 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations,” he says. “Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants help people of all ages prevent, lessen and overcome disabilities. Common interventions may include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school, helping injured persons to regain skills, and providing support to elderly persons experiencing physical and cognitive changes.”

Lora Plank, dean of health sciences and interim dean of nursing at Ivy Tech Northwest, says students often choose John Luke, The Times nursing for a career because they may not Nursing students Erika Cervantes, be as familiar with other choices in the of Portage, top, and Erin Cowgill, healthcare provider category. of Wheatfield at a nursing student “They are most familiar with nursing summit meeting held at Purdue but we have other very strong options University North Central last spring. for students including surgical tech, About 46 senior nursing students respiratory care or physical therapy at PNC compiled data examining assistant,” she says. “We have a lot of demographics, access to health care, terrific options in healthcare and we are health indicators, strengths and here to serve our students.” weakness, and other factors.

In nursing, Ivy Tech offers the ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing) and LPN particularly positioned for a role in that.”

Many region students are also (Licensed Practical Nurse) programs.

“The pay in nursing is a draw and it is a pursuing paths toward business and criminal justice careers. stable career,” Plank says.

Cindy Roberts, PhD, dean of the Bankston says healthcare education college of business at Purdue North is moving toward an inter-professional Central in Westville, says a business model, where students from various degree offers a solid base for future healthcare disciplines train and learn endeavors. together.

“Our degree has a lot of different “It’s the wave of the future … they options as students can do concentrations train together since they will work together. The training has positive effects and advance studies in such areas as accounting and we have the management that result in better healthcare for the and marketing tracks. We also offer patient. There’s better communication, degrees in leadership and HR,” she says. more respect for the healthcare team, “It gives you a good foundation for fewer mistakes,” he says. “We are

TOP THREE

MAJORS Majors or areas of study at region colleges and universities: Valparaiso University • Nursing • Mechanical engineering • Biology University of Saint Francis in Crown Point • Nursing • Medical lab technician many different types of positions. It’s a nice blending of a general educations coupled with real skills, such as how to read a balance sheet or understand a performance review.

“Particularly popular right now are accounting and HR tracks.”

Roberts says creating connections while still in college has become a priority.

“One of the things we are really pushing and has become more of a focus is some sort of internship or experience working with people within the community while still in class. Marketing classes working on an ad campaign or accounting internships help them get jobs skills along the way,” she says. “We are making it more of a priority to help students be better placed to have a career.

Many are hired after internships … it’s a good connection to have and they are developing knowledge about the job and understanding behaviors such as work attitude and work ethic.”

Joi F. Patterson, PhD, vice president of academic affairs and chief operating officer at Calumet College of St. Joseph, says students with an entrepreneurial mindset are attracted to the business program.

“It is especially popular with our growing international population,” she says.

Patterson also says criminal justice has always been a favorite with students.

“We have the largest public safety program in the region, which is due to the excellent faculty that we have,” she says. “Among our full-time faculty who were once police officers and attorneys, we have some of the best and brightest attorneys and law enforcement agents teaching in the program.”

Purdue University Calumet in Hammond • Nursing • Business/Management • Communication Purdue North Central in Westville • Business • Nursing • Psychology Calumet College of St. Joseph in Whiting • Business • Criminal Justice • Science Indiana University Northwest in Gary • Health care • Criminal justice • Business Ivy Tech Northwest region • Nursing • Business • Industrial Technology/ Steelworkers for the Future South Suburban College in South Holland and Oak Forest • Radiologic Technologist • Occupational Therapist Assistant • Paralegal

6 | Education Guide | March 20, 2015 A Special publication of the Times Media Co.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Calumet College of St. Joseph is affordable, value-centered and career focused

S

cott Tokach, District Director of School Security for Lake Station Community Schools, earned Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Management and Masters of Science in Public Safety Administration degrees at Calumet College of Saint Joseph (CCSJ). Tokach, who after 25 years in law enforcement, retired from the Lowell Police Department as assistant chief, is currently a part-time CCSJ adjunct faculty member teaching the Focus Paper-Public Safety Management 444 course.

Tokach said CCSJ provided him the great opportunity to earn his degrees in a private school setting with small class sizes and a Catholic environment.

“The college degrees I’ve earned progressed me both professionally and personally by developing knowledge of myself,” Tokach said. “My education has opened my mind to the ability of recognizing opposite views, thinking outside of the box, and developing better-informed conclusions based on research information. I have grown to a better understanding of humanity, cultural diversity, empathy, compassion for all, and not being judgmental to assist people in their time of need when they absolutely can’t help themselves. Most of all, it has increased my skills in public speaking, writing, teamwork, leadership, conflict resolution, and improved personal confidence. I may not have had as many advanced career opportunities or have been professionally recognized in my careers without a college degree.”

Tokach finds teaching at CCSJ a way of “paying it forward.”

“I have reached an accomplished point in my public safety career with education and experience which has provided me the opportunity to pay it forward by teaching at Calumet College of Saint Joseph the future generations of public safety students, while staying connected in a new way.

Founded in 1951 as an extension of St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, CCSJ is affordable, close to home, careerfocused and value centered. The small, family-oriented university, which offers four-year master’s, bachelor’s, and associate’s degrees, serves a diverse student population representative of the Calumet Region. Our small class sizes enhance the learning process and provide

organizations and clubs. These include drama, literature, creative writing, rowing, student government and science.

CCSJ offers resources for the disabled and is the only federally-named Hispanic Serving institution in the state of Indiana.

Four master’s degree programs provide students with the skills, knowledge and dispositions to confront the challenges of their perspective careers as well as affect change in their professions.

The Degree Completion Programs are designed to meet the educational needs of adults unable to complete their degree in the traditional manner. Adults with two years of transferable credit can earn their degree in as little as 12 months.

These programs consist of cluster groups of approximately 15 adult learners who meet twice a week for four-hour classes with a comprehensive curriculum of 14 modules of concentrated studies. In PHOTOS PROVIDED addition, each student must draw on New science labs enhance students’ abilities to participate in research projects. coursework, library resources and prior experience to complete an integrated project. For maximum convenience and to accommodate adults’ busy lives, we offer classes at the University Center in Portage as well as our Whiting campus.

Not sure if this is the right fit for you? How will it affect your family and social life? Our Adult Degree Completion Programs have dedicated counselors who work exclusively with our adult students and can answer any questions you may have. Our main priority it to help you, our students, succeed.

“In today’s world, it can be a deal breaker by not earning a college degree,” Tokach said. “The benefits of higher education are very clear these days in the public safety careers. It can be the difference of being hired, being eligible for promotions, and earning a better living wage. By earning a college degree, The women’s volleyball team goes pink to raise funds for breast cancer research. it may open the door tomorrow for a seat in the big chair as Chief of Police. Also, it will certainly strengthen your ability to explore post-retirement careers. In a personal attention from faculty and staff. CCSJ you are always a person – never a nutshell, a college degree is like having We pride ourselves on having the lowest number. the golden ticket, which can open For traditional students, CCSJ offers tuition rate of any private four-year endless opportunities in life.” honors programs with opportunities to institution in Indiana.

For additional information or to study abroad, the Enterprise Expansion Our faculty members have real world Opportunity Network (EEON) internship register, visit our website at ccsj.edu or experience to enhance our students’ program, 20 men’s and women’s athletic call (219) 473-4215. Take that first step educational perspectives, provide a and make Calumet College of St. Joseph programs, mentoring and tutoring. network of contacts for our graduates, “Your University of Choice.” Your future Enhance your college experience by and, along with our staff, are dedicated awaits! participating in a variety of service to helping you every step of the way. At

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

March 20, 2015 | EDUCATION GUIDE | 7

CARMEN MCCOLLUM carmen.mccollum@nwi.com,(219) 662-5337‌

Start

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undreds of students across Northwest Indiana are benefiting from the dual credit program, which allows students to earn high school and college credit simultaneously.

All of the local colleges and universities, including Calumet College of St. Joseph, Purdue North Central and Ivy Tech Community College Northwest, offer a dual credit program, and have agreements with numerous area high schools.

Patrick Cannon, Purdue University North Central Academic Coordinator of Concurrent Enrollment Program at the Westville campus, says the school defines a dual credit class as one that is taken for high school and college credit by a high school student taking the class at the university campus taught by on-campus instructors.

“Concurrent credit (which is most of what we are speaking of here) is when high school students take classes for both high school and college credit and it is taught in their high school by a high school instructor,” he says. “We have some students who are academically qualified, come and take classes on campus. Generally high school students who enroll in the concurrent enrollment program courses taught in the high school have to maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average.”

Cannon says PNC has grown from one high school partner, one instructor and 13 students in 2006 to 47 high school partners, more than 300 instructors with nearly 3000 students enrolled in the program. “The PNC program is providing a tremendous asset to the larger community by encouraging students who might otherwise not be motivated, into taking college credit courses during their junior and senior year of high school. We are providing the courses at a tremendous reduction in cost to students which benefits parents and students,” he says.

Added PNC spokeswoman Carol

8 | EDUCATION GUIDE | March 20, 2015

Dual credits give high school students a jump start on college About 200 students from Porter and LaPorte County High Schools at Valparaiso’s Ivy Tech campus for a World Affairs Conference. The purpose of the conference was to engage students in civil discourse about world issues, just one of a number of programs with high school students interacting at college level.

TIMES FILE PHOTO

Connelly, in the fall semester, the university had a record enrollment of 2,890 high school students taking 15,277 credit hours, a 15 percent increase over 2013. “Of the 536 first-time, full-time freshmen enrolled at PNC in the fall semester, 194 students or 36.19 percent earned concurrent enrollment credits in high school and entered PNC with an average of 12.17 credit hours. Bringing in these credit hours allow students to graduate earlier and save tuition dollars,” she says.

Purdue University Calumet spokesman Wes Lukoshus says PUC has dual credit agreements with five Northwest Indiana high schools — Crown Point, Lake Central, Hanover Central, Hammond Academy of Science and Technology and Thea Bowman Leadership Academy in Gary.

During the 2013-14 school year, 615 high school students were enrolled in Purdue Calumet dual credit courses offered at those high schools. Lukoshus adds that the students were instructed by high school teachers who were trained by Purdue Calumet faculty to teach consistent with the curricula and standards of Purdue Calumet campus

courses.

“Of those 615 high school seniors, our tracking indicates that 509 went on to enroll in post-secondary institutions during the fall, and 101 of them became Purdue Calumet students,” he says.

Of the 509 students who enrolled in post-secondary institutions, 416 enrolled in a four-year institution in Indiana, 20 enrolled in a two-year school, 70 enrolled in a four-year, outof-state school and three enrolled in a two-year, out-of-state school. Lukoshus explains the university was unable to determine where the remaining 106 dual credit students went.

Ivy Tech Community College is one of the major institutions of higher education across the state which offer dual credit to high school students, saving students and families more than $14 million last year. High school students can take Ivy Tech classes at their high school, at an Ivy Tech campus and online.

After graduation, students are invited to enroll at Ivy Tech and work toward a certificate or associate degree, then move on to a four-year university.

John Newby, Ivy Tech Community

College assistant vice president of K-12 Initiatives, says that last year the college had a dual credit agreement with 420 high schools and career centers across the state. He says 50 of those high schools are in the Northwest Indiana region.

“Another way of looking at that number is that we are serving 93 percent of the traditional schools around the state,” he says. “About 20 percent of those students enroll in an Ivy Tech campus after graduation, that’s up from about 7 percent a few years ago.”

Kevin Teasley, president and CEO of the Indianapolis-based GEO Foundation which operates 21st Century Charter School in Gary, says a college experience is critical to its students.

“One hundred percent of our seniors will graduate this year with at least three college credits and two have earned 60 college credits or an associate degree,” he says. “Most will have earned an average of 12 college credits. Dual credit is important but early college is more so. There is a difference. We are early college. Our students work toward an actual associate degree and or credits that are fully transferable to four-year universities.”

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PUT A TRADITION OF EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE EDUCATION TO WORK FOR YOU — CLOSE TO YOUR HOME The University of Saint Francis Crown Point offers two-year healthcare degrees from a school of established excellence in the Chicagoland area.

Top quality healthcare instruction by unsurpassed faculty is a longstanding University of Saint Francis tradition. Programs date to the university’s founding, and produce graduates judged by many hospitals and laboratories as their best new hires.

Choose your field—and enter the job market or begin a higher degree in two years. Health careers are enjoying robust employment, which will continue as our population ages.

Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Demand for ASN graduates will increase 19 percent through 2022, with average salaries of $65,470, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Graduates can begin work at once or continue through completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to up their value and salary potential even more.

Associate of Science Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) The MLT provides a new health career pathway in the region.

Employment for MLTs and technologists will increase 13 percent over the next 10 years, with 42,900 job openings expected by 2020.

MLTs can expect to earn $46,680 annually, plus insurance and other benefits from employers like hospitals and clinics (BLS statistics).

Have a deeper conversation about your future. Contact USF Crown Point to enroll full- or part-time today.

USF is now accepting applications for summer and fall semester, 2014. Call 219-488-8888 or 877-803-8879 to schedule a campus visit and visit crownpoint.sf.edu.

THIS IS YOUR MOMENT Enrollment for associate degrees in nursing and medical laboratory technician is now open for the summer and fall semesters.

Take advantage of a high quality education at the University of Saint Francis Crown Point, where a tradition of academic excellence in healthcare is right around the corner.

Contact us today at crownpoint.sf.edu.

12800 Mississippi Parkway, Pavilion U Crown Point, Indiana 46307 877-803-8879, crownpoint.sf.edu

A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 9

Private grammar schools provide many advantages

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Edge

St. Thomas More Science Club in Munster.

DIANE POULTON TIMES CORRESPONDENT

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ocal administrators say there are many advantages to a private grammar school education.

Those advantages, they say, include smaller class size, an old-fashioned faith-filled environment, a solid foundation for future success, and a curriculum which exceeds state standards.

Crown Point’s St. Mary Catholic Community School has 513 students.

Due to growing demand, St. Mary’s, which offers classes through eighth grade, recently expanded its preschool program, Principal Tom Ruiz says.

Ruiz explains that there are many advantages to a St. Mary’s education.

“Students learn and grow in a faithfilled environment,” he says. “They have classmates who come Crown Point’s from families St. Mary Catholic in which Community School education is has 513 students. Due deeply valued. to growing demand, St. The St. Mary’s Mary’s, which offers classes community through eighth grade, is close-knit. recently expanded its It’s kind of an preschool program. old-fashioned environment.

People look out for one another and take care of one another.”

Ruiz says St. Mary graduates perform PHOTOS PROVIDED very well in high school and beyond.

10 | EDUCATION GUIDE | MARCH 20, 2015

“The honor rolls at Crown Point High School and Andrean are dotted with St. Mary’s graduates,” Ruiz explains. “They have learned how to navigate our everchanging and challenging world through a Christian lens. Every year when our eighth graders graduate, I think about the fact that they are prepared to take on whatever high school life has in store for them academically, socially, and spiritually.”

A major St. Mary’s success, Ruiz says, has come from embracing modern technology and its use in the classroom.

“Our junior high is a one to one school (one computer device per student) and our elementary wing is as advanced as you will find in the area,” Ruiz says.

In addition to academics, St. Mary’s offers basketball, soccer, volleyball, track, and cross country teams.

“Our boys play on the Crown Point public school football team in junior high,” Ruiz says. “In addition, we offer a wide variety of clubs and activities for students of all interests including band, robotics, environmental club, scouts, science Olympiad, chess, and more.”

Munster’s St. Thomas More Grammar School, which has an enrollment of 540 students and offers preschool classes, typically has a waiting list for elementary school classes, President Noreen Bickel says.

Bickel said St. Thomas More integrates Roman Catholic values into every moment of the day while offering a well-rounded education to each student.

“Our small class sizes offer better classroom manageability and more one on one time for our students,” Bickel says. “The results are evident in our A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

graduates. I think one major success is in developing the Trinity whole child – Lutheran offers mind, body, a caring Christian and soul. In environment, daily addition Christian education; students to strong participate in class choirs, academics orchestra, percussion and bell and integrated choir. The “all-participate” technology athletic program includes at every volleyball, soccer, grade, we offer basketball, and classes in art, cheerleading. music, physical education, and Spanish. We prepare our children to be successful for the future by helping them develop strong morals, values, and selfdiscipline. We also guide them to be critical thinkers and leaders.”

Bickel explains that St. Thomas More has a welcoming community atmosphere.

“Our students are encouraged to emulate the good stewardship they see demonstrated each day by our staff and fellow students,” Bickel says. “They learn to give back to the local and greater community from the gifts that they have been given, beginning at an early age.”

Beginning in fifth grade, St. Thomas More School offers soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field. The teams compete in the Catholic Youth Organization league. In addition to sports, St. Thomas More offers extra-curricular programs promoting leadership and honor and clubs and activities focusing on the arts, music, chess, scouting, and science, Crown Point’s Trinity Evangelical Lutheran School has 246 students, Development Director Susan Magruder explains.

The school’s advantages are many, according to Magruder. Trinity Lutheran offers a caring Christian environment, daily Christian education; students participate in class choirs, orchestra, percussion and bell choir. The “allparticipate” athletic program includes volleyball, soccer, basketball, and St. Thomas More school focuses on developing the whole child – mind, body, cheerleading, Magruder says. and soul. In addition to strong academics and integrated technology at every “As a Christian school Trinity holds grade, the school offers classes in art, music, physical education, and Spanish. itself to two important standards,” Magruder says 75 percent of Trinity’s our Biblical teaching is accepted beyond Magruder says. “The first is that we 2012 graduating class and 71 percent of our Lutheran walls.” strive for excellence in education. An the 2013 graduating class were on their With a collective average teacher example of this is our new computer high school honor rolls. experience of 18 years, Magruder says, lab. The second is that we must remain All three schools have a long history Trinity’s curriculum meets and exceeds Biblically sound in our Christian in Northwest Indiana and are currently the standards that have been set by teaching. Trinity Lutheran is very accepting applications for the 2015the state. Trinity provides extended careful to remain true to the Lord’s 2016 school year. St. Mary’s has been care from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. teaching through his word. Among educating children since 1865; St. For preschoolers it is an extension our students are many children of Thomas More since 1949; and Trinity of the educational day with a formal pastors from other churches and Lutheran since 1868. curriculum. denominations. This is evidence that A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

A major St. Mary’s success has been the embracing of modern technology and its use in the classroom. “Our junior high is a one to one school (one computer device per student) and our elementary wing is as advanced as you will find in the area,” Principal Ruiz says.

March 20, 2015 | EDUCATION GUIDE | 11

Full Tech An enhanced education using modern media tools institutions of higher education, some of which also are providing a laptop for students.

Indiana State University spokesman ust as local school Dave Taylor says that the program is districts are providing even better than a discount: about half a one-to-one student of incoming Indiana State University to computer ratio, state freshmen (1,356 students) received officials say more than laptops this year as part of the half the school districts university’s scholarship offerings. He in Indiana are using tablets in the classroom, a explains the Laptop Award has been in nimble, multipurpose machine surging in place since 2006 and about twice as many students qualified this year as did popularity across the country. in the first year. Taylor says the laptop That’s in line with Indiana’s CARMEN MCCOLLUM carmen.mccollum@nwi.com,(219) 662-5337‌

J

12 | EDUCATION GUIDE | March 20, 2015

the elite 5 percent of the world’s MBA programs accredited by AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and it exposes its students to the latest Professor technologies. The business Musa Pinar classrooms are equipped with in the VU projectors, a large viewing MBA Live screen, televisions, audio classroom. systems, and every seat in the classroom has a power source and internet access.

The University utilizes an online classroom management system called Blackboard. This system includes collaboration features, blogs, contact information, email systems, test survey pools, grading centers, tracking reports, archived courses, electronic journals, and much more.

Indiana University has long been a leader in providing faculty, students and staff with the most up-to-date technology support for teaching, learning, research and administration.

It offers the Catapult Center for Digital Humanities and Computational Analysis which offers a workshop and training series that meets throughout the year and provides hands-on experience in computational techniques along with the Center for Innovative PROVIDED Teaching and Learning which supports effective teaching and learning through the appropriate use of instructional is the students’ to keep if they remain technology and social media tools. enrolled in the university for the first “One of the things that IUN has done year. Students are eligible if they have to accommodate technology is a service a high school grade point average of called ‘IU Anywhere’ which allows 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. That same students to access all sorts of software,” laptop is available at a discounted price Wood says. “They don’t have to install to students who do not receive the it locally, they can stream it. We also scholarship. have cloud storage available so students Cindy Scanlan, assistant director, don’t have to use flash drives to store graduate programs in management, at Valparaiso University, says the school has files and they can access files from anywhere in the world.” much advanced technology integrated Many courses at Calumet College of into the VU MBA Live program.

“The Valparaiso University College of St. Joseph are supplemented with online instruction through Blackboard. Other Business offers MBA LIVE technology which allows MBA students in our Part- courses are delivered solely online.

Joi Patterson, Calumet College time Evening Professional MBA program vice president of Academic Affairs/ to attend remotely live from wherever Chief Operating Officer, says the they are during emergencies or when they must travel for work,” she explains. college is supported through Black Board Learning, which is a technology “I am not aware of any other program platform for teaching and learning. on campus that offers this technology; “Our degree completion programs it was specifically designed for the such as Organization Management are MBA program because our MBA is an supported by Black Board, E-Books accelerated program geared towards and Laptop computers which are all working professionals who must built into the tuition cost. The laptops balance work and family.” are essential for an accelerated format, She says that program is not any allowing the students to work remotely more expensive than any of the other and online. Qualified students receive MBA classes and it is designed for the working professional, as a back up when a fast-track grant, which covers approximately 30 percent of their they have to travel for work. tuition cost,” Patterson says.

The VU MBA program is among A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

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A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 13

A Connection

school, the only Four Star high school in Lake County north of Ridge Road, says Mullaney. At La Lumiere, Jones explains, “We have great success with our students going to college. Exploring colleges for the right fit for our students is an important part of the experience here.”

Class size contributes to that success, according to all three administrators.

At Marian, the average is one teacher per 18 students. La Lumiere averages 11 students per class, and as Jones adds, “The teachers know the students’ interests and passions. Our teachers are so lit up with enthusiasm.” Bishop Noll’s. studentteacher ratio is approximately 16 to 1, something parents mention as a positive at the 525-student school, Mullaney says. “The students next to them in class, in the hallways, at the lunch Sophomores table, are all achievers.

Jocelyn Nelson They have high and Savannah Altman expectations and large work on a project in goals, and they work chemistry class at toward it.”

Marian Catholic High The schools School, Chicago agree that having a Heights. well-rounded student experience is important.

At Marian High School, the performing arts play a role. The choir program sang at Carnegie Hall in spring 2014 and the marching band has won more awards than any other band in the country, says Sister Dorothy Marie.

Basketball, swimming, and soccer teams have excelled as well.

Both a day school and a boarding TONY V. MARTIN school, La Lumiere has students from all over the country and internationally.

“That’s something students who live nearby really value. Our student body is small but very diverse, which is hard to find in the Midwest,” says Jones.

Enrollment is at 230 students, with a 2014 graduating class of 60. All three schools have legacy students, whose brother, sister, and/or parents are graduates.

When should parents and students begin checking out private schools? The earlier the better. Sixth grade is not too early, but definitely seventh and eighth PROVIDED BY MARY ELLEN O’NEILL grades, according to administrators. The schools all have open houses, entrance exams, and “shadow days,” where an who score three of five advanced applicant can see what the school is like. placement tests. “They can get college Tuition at the schools varies. This credit for those. Some of our students go year’s numbers are: Marian High to college at sophomore standing,” says School, $1,075; La Lumiere School, Sister Dorothy Marie. $12,710 for day students, $39,100 for Bishop Noll’s Class of 2014, with 107 boarding students; and Bishop Noll students, received a combined total of Institute,$7,550 for students who belong $7.2 million in college scholarship offers. to a parish in the Diocese of Gary, $8,350 Mullaney noted his four oldest children, for those who do not. all Bishop Noll graduates, have said how All three schools offer financial aid well-prepared they were for college classes. The school is currently an A-rated from various sources.

Private high schools expect more from students and get it

JULIE DEAN KESSLER TIMES CORRESPONDENT‌

S

erious attention to classwork, homework, and grades, willingness to directly serve the community, and displaying high levels of personal integrity would make any public school student a standout. But at three private high schools in Northwest Indiana, that profile is expected of each and every student.

“We want students who are going to take their studies seriously and who are willing to give back to the school, the community and their parish,” says Sister Dorothy Marie, O.P., Recruitment and Admissions Director at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights in Illinois.

At La Lumiere School in La Porte, Indiana, “We look for students who have a pretty solid academic background, involvement in activities, and who value community service; we hope the students have already done some Members of that (service),” of the Bishop says Andi Jones, Noll Institute Director of choir perform Institutional for residents of Advancement.

Hartsfield Village And at Bishop in Munster.

Noll Institute in Hammond, President Paul Mullaney explains, “What we hear most often from the families who invest in a Bishop Noll education for their children is that their children will not only learn the valuable lessons of reading, writing and arithmetic, but also the lessons of life, rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

That thread of spiritual connection runs through each aspect of all three Catholic high schools. “Faith is an important reason to send children to Marian Catholic High School,” says Sister

14 | EDUCATION GUIDE | March 20, 2015

Dorothy Marie. La Lumiere’s Headmaster Michael Kenney describes the school as fostering Christian ideals rooted in the school’s Catholic heritage, and at Bishop Noll, “We provide a moral compass, as our mission is to educate and develop the whole student in mind, body and soul,” says Mullaney.

Instruction for the mind is expected to result in academic success. Marian’s average of more than 100 advancedplacement scholars includes students

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

New degree options at IU Northwest Latest offerings reflect the changing needs of employers, demands of students

As the Region’s University, Indiana University Northwest re-evaluates its degree offerings regularly, making sure its programs adequately prepare students for the careers they are seeking as well as teaching them the skills that employers need.

Toward that end, IU Northwest has added several new options to its offerings over the past year with the Schools of Business and Economics and Education leading the way.

Business and Economics

Responding to a growing demand for human resources and marketing professionals, the School of Business and Economics has added designated minors in both of these disciplines beginning in the Fall 2015 semester. By grouping elective courses together and recognizing them as a minor, students now will have a documented specialization that will give them an edge when they seek employment.

The weeknight hybrid MBA is a new option that allows students earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree to attend weeknight classes every other week. The new program format, which combines online and face-to-face learning, was specifically designed for students who work and want to pursue an MBA on a part-time basis.

Perhaps most importantly, the School recently announced that a recent peer review panel has reaffirmed its status as an AACSB-accredited undergraduate and masters-level business program for the next five years. This is the second time the School has been reaccredited since its initial accreditation in 2005.

IU Northwest remains the only public business program in Northwest Indiana to carry AACSB accreditation, a distinction attained by only five percent of business schools worldwide.

Education

Responding to the growing demand for online educators, IU Northwest launched its new K-12 Online Teaching Certificate in January. The certificate program, which is taught fully online, is a 15-credit hour program that

instructs certified K-12 teachers on how to develop and teach online courses geared toward primary and secondary level students.

The School of Education recently approved a new option for those who want to become special education teachers. This new two-part graduate level program prepares teachers to work with disabled students with disabilities across all grades and all school settings. The first part is a 30-credit-hour Master’s degree. After being awarded a degree in either elementary or secondary special education, students may enroll in the licensure component of the program.

To meet the licensure requirements, students will complete methods courses with a field placement and semester-long student teaching experience, unless they already possess a standard teaching license in another area.

Bachelor of Applied Science

IU Northwest now offers a new degree program that will enable thousands of Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree holders to pursue a fouryear Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree without losing the credits they have already earned. The program, which was approved by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and is the first of its kind in Indiana, was established through a collaborative effort between the Indiana University regional campuses – IU Northwest, IU South Bend, IU Kokomo, IU East and IU Southeast.

Graduate Programs

IU Northwest is also a leader in graduate education, offering programs in business administration, educational leadership, elementary or secondary education, liberal studies, clinical counseling, public affairs, social work and various teaching licenses at the graduate level.

In addition, IU Northwest provides post-baccalaureate certificates in management, accounting, women’s and gender studies, environmental affairs, community development and urban studies, K-12 Online Teaching, nonprofit management, computer information systems, race-ethnic studies and public management.

For more information, or to visit IU Northwest, go to www.iun.edu or contact the Office of Admissions at (219) 980-6991.

A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 15

Grassroots

Gary and East Chicago and is exploring Mary Arnold opportunities to serve is doing her additional schools Teaching for throughout Lake America service at County.

“Our current Henry W. Eggers corps members Middle School in teach grades K-12, Hammond. spanning a variety of content areas including Teach for America Corps program math, science, social benefits local schools studies, English and foreign languages,” says Barry Tyler Jr., Director of Northwest Indiana Partnership at Mary taught seventh grade and she is DIANE POULTON Teach for America. “In 2014, we teaching eighth grade science to the TIMES CORRESPONDENT‌ began a partnership with Calumet same students. Mary has partnered with College of St. Joseph to become our one of her colleagues at Eggers to pilot ary Arnold, a certifying university – the institution an Honors Biology program for eighth science teacher at graders. Typically this is a high school Hammond’s Henry TONY V. MARTIN, THE TIMES where our teachers go to gain their Indiana teaching licenses and further course.”

W. Eggers Middle professional development and training.

Arnold recently led her students in a School, is a secondIn addition to this program, our teachers working with them to form plans for medical diagnosis project. year participant in receive one-on-one support from TFA high school, college and beyond. Mary “Instead of simply reading about the Teach For America Corps program. coaches that help them grow their is dedicated to inspiring her students genetic diseases, she grouped Arnold exemplifies the impact of professional skills.” to pursue college options and begin the program’s participants, Ana Vargas. students into ‘medical’ teams, each According toTyler, Teach For America building their goals today.” responsible for reviewing a patient Teach for America Managing Director, participants are committed to making a Teach For America recruits recent case file, analyzing symptoms and Communications, says. positive impact on students’ lives both college graduates and professionals to “Mary was a Biology major in college, making a medical diagnosis as well as inside and outside the classroom. recommendations for treatment,” Vargas teach in urban and rural communities where she became passionate about for a two-year commitment. says. “In addition to teaching rigorous expanding the diversity of the STEM Teach For America currently provides For more information about NWI Teach for science content, Mary devotes time (Science Technology Engineering and Math) field,” Vargas explains. “Last year exposing students to STEM careers and 40 teachers to 11 schools in Hammond, America please visit nwi.com.

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

Marian Catholic High School as well as in faith, athletics, fine arts, student government and clubs.

Marian Catholic High School is a coeducation preparatory Catholic High School within the Dominican tradition of study, prayer, community and preaching.

Marian Catholic students seek truth, exhibit personal responsibility, cultivate their individual talents, and demonstrate ethical leadership and Christian Service.

Marian Catholic High School is proud of its college preparatory curriculum. Marian Catholic offers 17 Advanced Placement classes offering high school students the opportunity to receive college credit for classes taken in high school. As a result, many Marian Catholic students go on to college almost on a sophomore standing. Students who receive a score of 3 or above on at least three Advanced Placement Exams are named Advanced Placement Scholars. Marian Catholic averages well over 100 Advanced Placement Scholars each year. Marian students receive extensive counseling regarding college through our outstanding college counseling program.

Some of the universities which Marian Catholic students are attending include: Harvard College, Stanford University, University of Notre Dame, University of Michigan, Washington University, University of Illinois, Northwestern University, University of Chicago, Wake Forest University, Grinnell College, DePauw University, Syracuse University, Indiana University, Purdue University, Illinois Wesleyan, St. Louis University and many more.

Marian Catholic offers a four year Leadership Program. One hundred percent of Marian Catholic students receive education in Leadership Skills such as making good decisions, managing time, establishing priorities, dealing with different personality types, etc.

Leadership opportunities abound across the curriculum

Faith is an integral part of student life at Marian Catholic High School. Students receive a strong foundation in faith through study and discover the willingness to serve that leads to preaching; compassion that will bring community and strength that comes from prayer.The Campus Ministry program fully engages students as Dominican Ambassadors (retreat leaders) and Dominican Preachers.

Service is an outgrowth of the faith foundation given to Marian Catholic students. Even though service is not mandatory, ninety-five percent of Marian Catholic students participate in service to their school, their community and to their church out of the goodness of their hearts. Service opportunities of every kind are available to meet the interests and talents of all Marian Catholic students from feeding the homeless to visiting with senior citizens to rehabbing homes in Appalachia.

Competing or cheering on the team is all a part of the spirit of Marian Catholic. With 25 teams which range from football to fencing, students have many opportunities to get involved in athletics. Each year Marian Catholic celebrates teams and individuals participating in State playoffs. Most recent State Championships were won by baseball in 2012 and women’s basketball in 2013. Are men’s diver won two consecutive State Championships in 2014 and 2015.

Fine Arts are a point of pride at Marian Catholic.

Our Marian Catholic Band is considered one of the best bands in the United States.The Marian Catholic Band has been named State Champions for 35 consecutive years, Marching Band Finalists at Bands of America Competition for 30 years.The Marian Catholic Band has won Grand National Championships seven times which is more than any band in the United States.The Marian Catholic Band has marched in the Rose Bowl parade and in the Macy’s New York City Thanksgiving parade.

But if you do not play an instrument, the Marian Catholic speech team has won ten State Championships in the past eight years in such categories as Group Interpretation and Performance in the Round.The Choir program performed at Carnegie Hall in New York April, 2014 and continuously receives superior ratings at IHSA Organizational contests.The theater program performs such musicals as Beauty and the Beast and Shrek and in April of 2015 will perform The Sound of Music. Our four year art program helps students prepare for careers in art by preparing their portfolios for prestigious art schools. All or our students talents find an outlet at Marian Catholic.

Participation is a part of student life at Marian Catholic. Student government and over 40 clubs and organizations offer another opportunity for students at Marian Catholic to get involved and show their spirit.

Dances, service trips, education trips abroad offer Marian Catholic students the opportunity to move beyond the classroom to expand their knowledge.

Marian Catholic students have studied the ecology in Costa Rica and Trinidad/Tobago Rain Forest.They have helped rehab homes in Appalachia and toured the cultural wealth in countries such as England, France, Greece, Italy and Portugal.

Marian Catholic teachers engage students to think, to learn, to experience, to understand and to grow in their relationships.They mentor, coach and guide Marian Catholic students through their four years of education. More than 90% of our faculty hold advanced degrees and have an average of 20 years teaching experience.The faculty has a strong commitment to professional development, strong involvement in student activities and is committed to caring about Marian Catholic students as individuals.

Marian Catholic has outstanding students who graduate from Marian Catholic with a sense of pride and confidence and go out to meet the challenges of life as “Scholars With a Soul”

A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 17

Get Inspired qualifications and qualities when admitting next year’s class.

they will have and the professors they will have will help in achieving their goals. They see where school fits in, and they try to make a balance. Students with hether someone is University of St. Francis that state of mind have determination.” applying from high Mike DeBold works at the Enrollment DeBold believes that looking at a school, transferring Services Admissions and Advice for the student’s qualities are a deciding factor from another school University of Saint Francis in Crown in accepting a student, especially the or returning to Point, Indiana. quality of perseverance. education as an “Students who reach out to you have “I’ll look at his/her grade point adult, colleges are looking for different a goal in mind”, he explains. “The courses average, SAT scores, and other things, but I don’t take it too far until I’ve actually talked with the student.

“We want our students to succeed. I have spoken with high school teachers and they say when a student has a goal in mind, and he realizes challenges, the 1330 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, IN 46356 student will preserve.”

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A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA CO.

A Special publication of the Times Media Co. March 20, 2015 | Education Guide | 19

Marian CatholiC

• 17 Advanced Placement classes

• Top 25% of class - 27.1 ACT average • Four Year Leadership Program • Yearly retreat program for all class levels • Excellent Fine Arts opportunities • 25 athletic teams with numerous IHSA championships • Marching Band with 35 consecutive class championships in State Competition • Strong tradition of service

“teaChing SCholarS With a Soul”

Spring SemeSter Shadow dayS for 7th graderS For more information on spending a Shadow Day at Marian Catholic, please contact Sr. Dorothy Marie at 708-756-9762 or sdm@marianchs.com

Marian Catholic 700 Ashland Avenue Chicago Heights, IL 60411

www.marianchs.com 708-756-7565

20 | Education Guide | March 20, 2015 A Special publication of the Times Media Co.