How can you and your team modify the school’s Course Catalog to increase G+ opportunities? by Scott Rhymer https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9 Collaboration Group #3 en-us 2017-11-23 12:28:41 UTC 2017-12-08 23:07:23 UTC hello@padlet.com Use Red + To Collaborate And Share wrhymer https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/209691073 2017-11-23 12:29:25 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/209691073 Our school is working diligently to insure that our electives mean something when students take them and they align with each other. We have a student population that is heavily involved in our career and fine art centers and want to continue to serve that population. We are looking to expand our agriculture and law enforcement programs to increase G+ opportunities within our building as well. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/211989386 2017-11-30 18:03:19 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/211989386 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212012267 We are discussing ways to utilize the career centers more as well as create courses that we can provide on our campus. We are also looking to expand upon our strengths, while filtering out courses that dead end.    


]]> 2017-11-30 18:43:01 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212012267 G+ Opportunities https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212015005 The greatest thing is to be more strategic in what we offer. While meeting the graduation requirements of the state, we can still organize these classes in a way that leads to a "+" or certification in fields. We have a Sports Medicine/Medical Term program that students can get a certification for. Waiting to hear back from the district on other options...possibly some in the CATE courses.]]> 2017-11-30 18:47:41 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212015005 G+ mphillip3 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212025548 During the IGP conferences counselors will be able to assist students, parents, and teachers personalize their learning and prepare them for the next chapter of the learning beyond high school.]]> 2017-11-30 19:05:38 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212025548 Ask the community in which you serve what is the focus of the learners of today for their careers for tomorrow. Match up interest with availability and being flexible annually for the changes of interest and need in industry and local community https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212025995 2017-11-30 19:06:20 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212025995 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212086269 Examining the 2017-18 course catalog and evaluating the effectiveness and purpose of all classes - particularly electives - and culling out those that do not inherently benefit our students is the first step in modifying the course catalog.  The challenging aspect is examining the various course options we could offer and evaluating which courses are appropriate for our population.  What type of training is needed for those teachers?  Are there equipment expenses?  How can we make these classes happen in order to ensure the best education for our students?  Are there grants we can apply for to help fund these endeavors?  Utilizing the admin team, the guidance counselors, IC, teachers, parents, and community members we can find the materials necessary to offer various classes to our students that they find interesting, relevant, and will relate to their future.]]> 2017-11-30 21:20:17 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212086269 Get rid of current courses that are just "fillers". Add courses that meet the requirements of G+ opportunities. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212100640 2017-11-30 22:19:12 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212100640 Grouping the courses in order of "major" or "focus" would be beneficial rather than solely listing courses by content area. It would be nice to have the information grouped like the old university catalogs where we chose our major and checked off items as they were completed. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212107680 2017-11-30 23:03:49 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212107680 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212119161 We are currently examining our current course offerings to see what we are offering should not be as it offers no G+ value.  At the same time looking to see what we could add to our course catalog to offer more G+ value.
I like what many have already stated; utilizing the Career Center’s, offering classes that are more applicable, maximizing the time spent in IGP meetings to ensure students are signing up for classes that are fitting for their interest.  I think it is equally important to recognize that as times and interests of our students are changing that we must also change to meet those needs.  
]]> 2017-12-01 00:39:24 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212119161 Increasing G+ Course https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212123759 There needs to be an increase awareness about what courses already exist. For example, career centers. There is a stigma that needs to be broken. Career centers offer great opportunities for our students and they need to be shown this. Shadowing, visits, student shares, advisory lessons all can help facilitate interest. 

I agree with Mr. Rhymer in that courses need to have a purpose. That purpose is to prepare for after graduation. This includes elective credits that students begin selecting their freshman year. I'm hopeful that completers will count in our CATE department towards our G+ report card.That is an area that can be expanded and provide students with skill sets no other courses can offer that directly reflect what the workforce is looking for.]]> 2017-12-01 01:20:18 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212123759 Purpose https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212133121 Offering each course with a purpose of satisfying g+ in a certain way]]> 2017-12-01 02:31:54 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212133121 G+ opportunities expansion eproman https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212227331 We are currently working on expanding our G+ opportunities by adding GTC Dual Credit courses to our catalog to be taught on campus by our teachers who are also GTC professors.   This will allow a greater group of students to participate since transportation will not be an issue.  The challenges will be scheduling and synching the college schedule and calendar to the 7 period day and high school schedule and also ensuring that qualifications are done in house.  All doable but will take much focus and planning.

]]> 2017-12-01 12:34:48 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212227331 Reflection https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212265748 Initially, I believe we need to take advantage of our current resources by looking at courses (as you mentioned) which do provide credit but do not necessarily provide G+ opportunity. By repurposing and rearranging resources, we could free up opportunities for students to receive additional credentials.]]> 2017-12-01 14:19:11 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212265748 The team has and will continue to look at all opportunities to increase G+. For instance, the CATE department has worked hard to restructure the classes they will be offering in 2018-2019 school year. We know completers are not considered G+, but we do feel it is preparing students for their career choice after high school. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212280920 2017-12-01 14:46:07 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212280920 G+ opportunities https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212328178 We are currently looking at course to determine which could be completers in our CATE department. We have invited Greenville Tech over to present to our teachers about more dual credit offerings as we look to expand into English and Social Studies. Our CATE department is also working with area businesses to create a business panel to assist in providing feedback on skills needed in their compianies. We are then having a business dinner to invite our area companies into the school and possibly opening opportunities for shadowing and internships.]]> 2017-12-01 16:11:48 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212328178 G+ https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212414118 Courses added to the curriculum opens doors for all students. Not every student is prepared both mentally and physically for college. Let's expose these students, no matter the achievement level, to a multi-facet of life experiences. The more credits offered the more doors that will open for our students to attend technical colleges and universities with experience. ]]> 2017-12-01 19:17:00 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212414118 G+ https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212442269 We are working closely with our counseling staff to review career assessments in Naviance to ensure what we're offering and hope to offer aligns with our students' career goals. One thing we're hoping to add are workbased learning opportunities for our students interested in business during their senior year, second semester. Our hope is this will either solidify their future career decisions or become job opportunities for them after graduation.]]> 2017-12-01 20:35:55 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212442269 G+ https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212673453 We actually have a ton of G+ opportunities like AP, Accelerate, Early College, courses through USC, Greenville Tech etc. I feel like we could end programs/courses that are outdated holding tanks and look for more relevant skill based programs that lead to expertise in coding, cybersecurity, and more current business/industry based certifications. Maybe we could add a paralegal program/course....]]> 2017-12-03 23:44:30 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212673453 By looking at the current courses that serve only as a "place holder" and finding more beneficial courses for all students. Our team works closely with the guidance department to determine student needs based on their IGP meetings. We try to offer courses that students can achieve their +1 or take a course that would lead them to a +1. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212915289 2017-12-04 15:52:42 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212915289 It would benefit schools to take a look at the courses that are already being offered...determine how they fit within the G+ world. Afterwards, we really need to look at career inventory/assessment data. Look at the numbers...see what students are interested in and try to meet their needs by offering courses to cover G+ careers/skills, etc. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212972977 2017-12-04 17:32:23 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212972977 I believe our Admin, Instructional, and Counseling team are doing many of the things mentioned already. I do believe we need to scrutinize course listings annually to help ensure courses offered are serving a purpose for each of our students. Additionally,, on a related note, I would like to make sure as we are talking about being intentional with scheduling students towards coursework linked to a specific career or college path that we are still allowing students to transition between one 'career-focused course of study' to another. We could do a disservice to students if we demand they are locked into a specific course pathway linked to a career. I would want us to be flexible with students who are still exploring what their interests are. Possibly we even devise a liberal arts or general education course pathway for those students. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212978461 2017-12-04 17:42:06 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/212978461 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213135175 We are looking to expose our students to the Career Center and the options they have. We hosted a Career Fair in October where we had many of the careers that the Golden Strip Career Center offers. The students had the opportunity to sign up to shadow for 1/2 a day in the class they were interested in. We did this over three days and had over 100 students participate. Instead of touring the entire facility they were able to be a part of the class they are interested in. We had a ton of positive feedback from the kids. Our counselors went over there as well. They felt like that was extremely beneficial because they now have a better understanding of what is being offered. 

]]> 2017-12-05 02:46:27 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213135175 I believe we are constantly looking at ways to expand our possibilities in giving students "real world" or "G+" experiences. Having a realistic conversation about what classes we offer versus the learning outcome is necessary in this process. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213319459 2017-12-05 15:02:33 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213319459 Increasing G+ Opportunities https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472025 Just when you think you have enough opportunities, there are always more. The schools must survey the students, parents and community about the area and population needs. We then must look for ways to add courses to our catalog that fit the suggestions. We can also research other school and schools like ours for programs and courses that would be meaningful for our population and community. 
Lastly, we shouldn't limit ourselves to programs and courses based on feasibility when researching. There are always ways to locate funds. We should look at the needs of the building: eliminating courses with lower enrollments and offering courses with high levels of interest.  
]]> 2017-12-05 19:26:46 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472025 There are many great ways that we offer G+ opportunities already but I wish we could offer some Health Science classes that they once offered at the Career Centers. Students were able to earn their CNA certificate and work an internship during the school year. I also like the idea that another AP posted about having a career fair in conjunction with the career center. I feel that our Career Center is very under utilized and could have tremendous potential for a large portion of our student body. With all of that being said, looking to enhance the classes we offer is a regular conversation with our admin. team! https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472239 2017-12-05 19:27:14 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472239 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472537 Increase awareness and educate students on the benefits of taking a particular course. We need to also provide more real world experiences that can relate to the various courses. Provide courses based on students needs and the schools population.]]> 2017-12-05 19:27:52 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213472537 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213666312 I think it is important for high schools to utilize the career centers. We have some great programs at our career centers, but for some reason, there is a stigma attached to attending the career center to learn a specific skill. I think more exposure to the career centers as well as all of the wonderful magnet opportunities that our schools offer would greatly increase G+ opportunities. 

]]> 2017-12-06 12:51:07 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213666312 Be intentional https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213795578 We need to educate students and parents on the G+ opportunities available for students.  We can also increase student interest by allowing students to see first hand what the career centers have to offer.  As an admin team we must look at the courses currently being offered, determine which classes are placeholders and do whatever is necessary to provide more G+ opportunities.

]]> 2017-12-06 16:49:57 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213795578 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213939613 We are looking at that already as an Administrative Team with Guidance. We are also getting input from teachers. We are already thinking about substituting "filler courses" with courses that fit in to the G+ category. We are also talking about how to get students more exposure to the Career Centers as that is an avenue we need to utilize more fully.]]> 2017-12-06 22:46:09 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/213939613 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214496608 We are currently looking at all courses that are taught to determine which courses help students with the G+. As a team, we plan to discuss the classes that do not assist in G+ and eliminate some of them and then look at courses that are offered in the district that we can implement that will increase these opportunities. ]]> 2017-12-08 14:27:05 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214496608 We looked at what classes we were teaching that had students who would reach the top level and still expressed interest in more challenging curriculum and/or did not seem challenged. As a result we added 8 AP courses this year and are continuing to speak to students and teachers about where we can add more. We are also looking to add a dual credit marketing class so that our business classes can now culminate in something and those classes can work towards a goal greater than related arts credits. It is important that we look for both teacher and student interest before creating opportunities, or those opportunities will be wasted. mirvin5 https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214535983 2017-12-08 15:46:19 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214535983 "What's Your +?" https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214562833 Our school's goal is for EVERY student identify a "+" pathway. We have so many options available to our students through IB, dual credit, career center and school course offering. What we need is to really develop a systematic way of helping students identify and follow a pathway. Last year I worked with our CTE department to begin looking at our course offerings and identified new ones that were more in line with the G+ initiative of the district and would provide opportunities for students to obtain a license, certification or create a pathway to a program at the career center.  We are currently looking at courses such as Keyboarding and evaluating its value to our school program and the goals of the district with the G+ initiative. In our guidance department, we are working on increasing dual credit with early identification of students (fall testing) and advising and encouraging students during IGPs and the course selection period to take IB, AP and career center options.]]> 2017-12-08 16:44:25 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214562833 An analysis of current course offerings is critical to eliminating those "dead end courses" that may no longer be relevant and are not contributing to a G+ pathway. While much of the focus is on advanced coursework, thoughtful consideration needs to be given to those students who are on occupational or certificate tracks. What is their G+? The answers to that question will require partnering with outside agencies in a consistent and meaningful way. https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214668970 2017-12-08 23:04:07 UTC https://padlet.com/wrhymer/fyoh6j0c5sp9/wish/214668970