guide to
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
a blank slate media / litmor publications special section • january 11, 2019
30 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019 ADVERTORIAL
Holy Child Academy Nurturing the Spirit, Challenging the Mind A premier, independent Catholic School for children of all faiths – Toddler through 8th Grade.
Admissions Open House Sunday, January 27th 12-2pm Bring the family, enjoy a winter themed art project, hot cocoa & cookies, a STEAM activity and music by our hand bell and vocal choirs. Please email RSVP to admissions@hcali.org 25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568 516-626-9300 www.holychildacademy.org
Average Class Size
Faculty with Advanced Degrees
Interscholastic Middle School
SPORTS TEAMS
14 95% 5-8 71 for Grades
to
STUDENT
HOLY CHILD
ACADEMY
to FACULTY
State-of-the-art
ratio
Mac Lab &
3
Educational
Divisions Early Childhood Lower School Middle School
TruTouch Interactive Boards
High School
60
Feeder
Communities
Students of Diverse
PLACEMENT FAITHS DIRECTOR Welcomed on staff
FINANCIAL AID
is available
STEAM INSTRUCTION
at every level
Give Your Child a Distinct Advantage in the College Admissions Process The college admissions process is more competitive than ever before. In addition to good grades and excellent scores on the SAT and/or ACT, institutions of higher learning are increasingly focusing on the extracurricular activities and professional interests of the high school students they are considering for admission. High school students themselves are also seeking to explore career options that might be of interest well in advance of the time that they graduate. This allows them to gain experience that could ultimately lead to a highly successful professional path and avoids them choosing a college major that might not be the right fit. While there are programs offered through local high schools and universities, the appeal of pursuing pre-college opportunities at an institution such as the NYU School of Professional Studies (NYUSPS) is growing, because of the distinct nature of the programs offered and the immersive, industry-based NYC experience students enjoy. Many students who attend weekend workshops complete multiple semesters, building their knowledge and gaining invaluable expertise. It is a way for them to get out into the professional world without having the experience of a full-time job. High School Academy Weekend Workshops provide an opportunity to “try on” a career. With groups of
peers from local high schools across the city and in the suburbs, students acquire an insider’s view of a professional path in which they may be interested. Taught by experts in their fields, these classes provide a rigorous overview of an industry, with opportunities to work on team-based projects, develop portfolio pieces, and hear from an array of guest lecturers. From programs in Global Economics to Digital Filmmaking, Pre-law to Event Planning, Architecture to Social Entrepreneurship, NYUSPS is delivering deep course content in growing and emerging fields. The program serves to prepare high school students to succeed in a college classroom, building the creativity, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking that will prepare them for the challenges of higher education. Courses also are offered in Academic and College-level Writing and in Creative Approaches to Writing the College Application Essay, directly addressing the critical need for the strategic and analytic writing skills required for admission into college and beyond. Don’t miss the incredible opportunity to have your child gain an impressive experiential learning credential on his/her college application. Give him/her the NYUSPS High School Academy advantage this spring. There’s still time to apply and reap the benefits of these innovational pre-college programs.
To apply, visit: sps.nyu.edu/hsacademy/weekend06 For questions, please call 212-998-7006 or email sps.hsacademy@nyu.edu The application deadline is January 25, 2019, classes begin in early February.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019 • Guide to Schools & Education
HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY
Weekend Workshops The NYU School of Professional Studies High School Academy offers Weekend Workshops that provide high school students with programs of study that allow them to explore professional options and enhance their college portfolio. These programs are designed especially for local high school students who are interested in learning more about a particular career path and who prefer to gain
Prepare your high school student for their academic and professional future.
this experience during the weekends. High School Academy Weekend Workshops provide a condensed
A broad array of professionally focused courses are offered.
format for “trying on” a career. Over the course of just a few weekends,
Academic and College-Level Writing
Innovative Business Startups
students acquire an insider’s look at
Introduction to Careers in Hospitality
a professional path in which they
Introduction to Fashion Design in New York
Interactive Marketing Campaigns: The Power of Public Relations and Social Media
may be interested. Taught by experts
Introduction to Global Banking
Introduction to Architecture
in their fields, these classes bring an
Global Economics
NEW Introduction to Event Planning: Operations and Production
Writing for Television: Creating and Writing a New Series
Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship
Advanced Computer Science Concepts with JavaScript
Investing Fundamentals: Shaping Your Financial Future
Case Studies in Real Estate Development
Journalism: Reporting, Researching, and Writing Features
area of speciality to life. Students gain exposure to college-level course content through case studies and interactive group assignments. In addition to the knowledge they acquire, a student’s Weekend Workshop experience will serve as an impressive credential on his/her college application—another way
Computer Information Systems: Cyber Defense Creative Approaches to Writing the College Application Essay Digital Filmmaking: Storytelling on Film
Leadership and Management Development Photography: New York City Through the Camera Lens Pre-Law: An Introduction to Torts
they can differentiate themselves in the competitive admissions process!
APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 25, 2019
Classes Begin February 2, 2019
To apply, visit: sps.nyu.edu/hsacademy/weekend06 For questions, please call 212-998-7006 or email sps.hsacademy@nyu.edu New York University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution. ©2019 NYU School of Professional Studies.
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32 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019
7 ways newspapers benefit students C lassrooms have come a long way since the days when pioneering settlers would send their children to single-room schoolhouses. Modern classrooms might be technical marvels, but one less flashy learning tool remains as valuable as ever.
6. Newspapers promote social consciousness. Without newspapers, young people may never be exposed to the social issues facing their own communities or those issues that are affecting people across the country and the world. Newspapers provide unbiased exposure to such issues, potentially leading youngsters to further explore topics that are shaping their world and even encouraging them to form their own opinions.
Newspapers might not be as glamorous as tablets or other gadgets, but they are still an invaluable resource to educators and students. The following are seven ways in which newspapers in the classroom can benefit students. 1. Newspapers build vocabulary. Numerous studies have found that reading can improve youngsters’ vocabulary. Each day, newspapers are filled with fresh stories that can introduce kids to new words, helping them to strengthen their vocabularies and make them more effective communicators. 2. Newspapers improve reading skills. Like the old adage says, “Practice makes perfect.” Reading newspapers each day can help kids develop their reading and comprehension skills.
3. Newspapers promote critical thinking. Newspaper reporters are trained to objectively report the news, sharing facts without allowing their own opinions to influence their stories. Educators can choose stories from the newspaper to serve as catalysts for discussions that focus not just on the facts listed in the story, but what might be behind them. Such discussions
can help youngsters develop their critical thinking skills. 4. Newspapers bring ideas and current events to life. Many children are aware of major world events, even if they don’t know or understand the details. Newspaper articles about world events can be used as avenues to discussions about what’s going on in the world.
5. Newspapers build global awareness. Customized newsfeeds funneled through social media outlets can make it hard for young people to recognize and understand the world beyond their own communities and interests. Each days, newspapers include local, national and international stories that can illustrate to kids that there’s a world beyond their own.
7. Newspapers make learning fun. According to a 2017 report from Common Sense Media, kids younger than eight spend an average of two hours and 19 minutes per day looking at screens. Newspapers provide a welcome break from tablets, smartphones and computers, and kids may have fun flipping pages and getting a little ink on their hands. Newspapers remain invaluable resources that can benefit students in myriad ways
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019 • Guide to Schools & Education
Tips for learning a foreign language At the start of a new year, many people would like to make changes that can lead to personal growth and future success. One of the skills that can open more doors, and even help create personal satisfaction, is learning a new language. There are many reasons to learn a new language. Doing so can help people land a new job or speak fluently on an overseas vacation. Knowing more than one language can have various cognitive benefits as well. The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages states speaking more than one language can lead to improved memory and problem-solving skills, and may enhance one’s ability to concentrate. Bilingual or multilingual people also may stave off mental aging. Children take to foreign languages quickly and readily, but people of all ages can learn a foreign language. ¡ Set learning goals. Focus on specific, measurable outcomes. This can include learning a set number of words in a certain period of time to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed by the vast task of learning a new language.
¡ Invest the time. Set aside consistent time each day to devote to learning a new language. Neuroplasticity, or the ability of the brain to form and reorganize connections, doesn’t come as easily for adults as it does for children. Therefore, practice is necessary for adults to learn new skills. ¡ Use the correct learning style. Some people are visual learners and others auditory. Finding out one’s learning style can make the process go smoothly. ¡ Tie learning to culture. Having a vested interest in the culture of the language a person is trying to learn can facilitate the process and make it more interesting. ¡ There’s no “easyâ€? language. Keep in mind that all languages have their challenges, and one is not easier to learn than another, say linguists. Accepting challenges and sticking with the process can help avid learners along. Learning a new language can open doors and lead to both professional and personal growth.
33
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239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516.622.5678 longislandartshighschool.org LIHSA is a program of Nassau BOCES
34 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019
New Wellness Program at Our Lady of Mercy Academy Building upon Years of Excellence Principal Sandra Betters is excited to announce new and progressive enhancements to daily life at Our Lady of Mercy Academy. The all-girls high school is implementing a com
and prospective members of OLMA. Building upon a decades-rich reputation of academic excellence, Our Lady of Mercy Academy is actively responding to the needs of its current student population and the growing needs of all young women. “No longer can academic institutions focus on content-building without addressing the pressing need for attention to overall wellness and the intentional delivery of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL),� Betters explains.
woven into the new Wellness Program is the opportunity for students to conference with guidance counselors, in small peer groups, during each academic cycle. The groups will discuss topics related to reducing anxiety and promoting prosocial behaviors such as empathy and kindness. Students will also attend classes that foster grade-level skills related to executive functioning and college preparation. Moreover, this initiative will implement a daily schoolwide break that will provide both students and staff/faculty an occasion to participate in mindfulness and meditation exercises, further prompting a holistic, healthful lifestyle for all members of the community. One of the aims is to teach
students throughout their lives.
in all New York schools, including both public and private venues. Betters hopes that additional schools will follow suit, providing their students with opportunities to thrive in ways that reach far beyond report card grades. As noted in various national studies, students who are exposed to intentional measures to achieve wellness, including SEL, are more likely to succeed in academics, careers, and life. SEL is powerful, and it not only can transform school climates, but also, in keeping with Our Lady of Mercy’s mission of service and social justice, can impact the issues that society, as a whole, is battling. “Student wellness must
meet our students, during the admissions process. It continues as we partner with students and their families to carefully select courses that will promote academic growth for the individual student, recognizing her academic strengths and the areas in which she requires further support. Building a positive relationship with
in a holistic approach to overall growth and wellness. At Our Lady of Mercy Academy, we aim to work closely within our Mission to provide a compassionate atmosphere that responds to individual needs. Through our new wellness approach, we endeavor not only to serve our current community, but also to make our ‘Mercy !" #
girls education. We are carefully examining ways to meet the needs of the diverse learners who make up today’s generation of young women,� notes Betters.
In an effort to provide exceptional academic support to all types of learners, new faculty will join OLMA with expertise in alternative learning strategies, thus addressing the need for differentiation. These added members will provide not only small-group instructional settings for students, but also co-teaching experiences for faculty.
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moral imperative when it secures the well-being of our students. The Wellness Program at Our Lady of Mercy Academy '* +
gift from Kathi and Paul Barnett, the program unites spiritual, mental, academic, and psychological wellness services under
one umbrella, while offering students an opportunity to access among the Catholic high schools on Long Island. However, a holistic education guided in the charism of the Sisters of Betters points to the fact that, in the summer of 2018, the Mercy. New York State Education Department passed benchmarks To learn more about this Wellness Program, email wellthat mandated SEL for kindergarten through twelfth grade ness@OLMA.org.
Our Lady of Mercy Academy • 815 Convent Road, Syosset, NY 11791 • 516.921.1047
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019 • Guide to Schools & Education
Our Lady of Mercy Academy Congratulates the Incoming
Class of 2023
Welcome to the Circle of Mercy! Visit www.olma.org/2023 for more information and registration Our Lady of Mercy Academy 815 Convent Road, Syosset, NY 11791 516.921.1047 x138 www.olma.org
Educating young women with Faith, Compassion, and Promise
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36 Guide to Schools & Education • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, January 11, 2019 ADVERTORIAL
Truths and Half Truths The Herricks teachers have been without a new contract since June 30, 2018. This is the first time in history that the District and the Herricks Teachers’ Association (HTA) have not settled on a new a contract prior to the last agreement expiring. HTA members are disheartened and have expressed our disappointment in a professional manner. Despite this lack of progress, there has been no effect on our students. At the December 14th Board of Education meeting, the Board chose to publicly address some of the details around the negotiations, while the HTA had not. Since the board has made the decision to discuss the issues in
public, these comments need to now be addressed. Over the coming weeks, the HTA will run a series of articles explaining why the Board comments are misleading. In fact, we would call their comments “half-truths.” Watch for our responses in upcoming issues. We want to start with the undeniable facts about the quality of Herricks public schools. These ranking exist because we have engaged parents, hard-working students, and dedicated faculties. The Herricks Public Schools is ranked the 7th best school district in New York State by
Niche.com and the 5th best on Long Island! (There are about 120 public school districts in Nassau and Suffolk counties and about 700 in the state.) Herricks was ranked 34th on a list of the 2019 Best School Districts in the entire United States! (Niche.com) The Herricks elementary schools received a rating of A+! (They are ranked 17th, 22nd and 25th in the state!)
People move to Herricks not because it has a fancy downtown, or because it is located on Long Island Sound, or even because of its proximity to NYC. They move here because of the exceptional, high achieving school district. The HTA is determined to ensure that continues. We look forward to explaining “Truths and Half Truths” in the coming months
Working together for our students and with our community
Herricks’ Teachers and Staff Help Make Christmas a Little Merrier for Many Children in Nassau County At right, toys purchased and wrapped by teachers and staff at the Middle School were delivered to 117 underprivileged children in an effort that the HTA has undertaken for 20 years. This year’s program was organized by Librarian Jodi Thompson.
One hundred children, ages 2-17, got Christmas presents this year, through the kindness and generosity of the staff at Herricks High School. Each year, the Herricks’ employees work through the Nassau County Department of Social Services to fill children’s requests. “These are families in need throughout the county and the coordinator from social services tells me that the children are happy to receive these beautifully packaged gifts,” said Marianne Marsigliano, who coordinates the program on behalf of Herricks. “It is very rewarding to all of us to be able to do this for these special children.”
Herricks Teachers’ Association