Business Department Reflection by Christine Mostoller https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e Please respond to the presentation. What thoughts, questions, or ideas do you have for this PLC? Did you hear something you liked? en-us 2018-01-30 22:54:31 UTC 2018-03-23 20:46:10 UTC hello@padlet.com Sam Fisher sfisher38 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/234077277 The opening credits put us all to shame.  MGM has a new mascot instead of the lion.

In all seriousness, MAHS is the leader in Career Pathways.  It has been a pleasure serving as the A/C Pathway Co-Chair this year, and being able to see a little bit of the program on the planning side of it.  The business department does a great job getting students prepared for the future through Futures I and II.

I appreciated seeing how they teach personality profiles and soft skills. It is good to know that it is drilled in Futures, as I have had the opportunity to see students in the Senior CAP.  I believe I have seen growth in this area over the years.

I appreciate that they teach students what college will cost, and how to pay for college.  These are things that I worked on with my parents as a teen, but we are teaching in a time where many students do not have this support at home.  Therefore, we need to provide this education as a school entity.

]]> 2018-02-22 04:17:51 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/234077277 Lori Hess https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/235628581 I thought the video was very detailed and informative.  I especially liked the part about the college investigations.  It seems that programs in international business are quite popular at many universities.  I think students who are interested in majors like that should be encouraged to take business courses AND world language courses here at MAHS.  Sometimes I don't think our students understand how skills in various disciplines have the potential to complement each other in the workplace.  Your work with personalities, skills, interests, and careers will certainly help students see those connections.

I really appreciate how you are revamping your course content/offerings to better fit our ever-changing world. Your research into what area schools and universities offer is interesting. I am certainly going to look into the resources that Michele showed us so that I can better address students' questions about careers in world language.]]> 2018-02-26 20:49:52 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/235628581 Terri O'Neil https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/236669423 Nice summary of the business courses – this will help me in directing/assisting students with courses and content in your department when in the selection process. The content in futures is critical for students to take seriously so the pathway program can be of benefit. I also feel comfortable with future direction knowing some of the tools you are using. Nice comparison with other districts – we seem on track with what we’re offering. Great information on higher education and resources for labor and industry. Nice to know this is reaching our students through your department. Great job!]]> 2018-02-28 20:43:52 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/236669423 Beth Gannon https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/238321856 It's interesting to know what we have in the business department, particularly in the futures courses that all of the students take.  I thought the features in the college search were particularly interesting, and made me think back to those days of flipping through those GIANT college guide books. 

I thought the Naviance curriculum was interesting and it seemed to tie into my PBL PLC, as well.  (Side note:  I was wondering what Naviance's end game is - they seem to be adding curriculum and I wonder if they are looking to become a Course Management System or something along those lines). 

Just as another tidbit of information - the OOH on BLS is what we have the kids look at when they are writing their CAPs.  

Last thing - I was wondering what the job outlook for Sports and Entertainment Marketing is like in this area? 

]]> 2018-03-05 19:49:54 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/238321856 Jane Carberry https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/238895191 I am really impressed by your presentation it was well done and very organized. 

I knew that the Futures I and II classes allowed our students to look at the many opportunities available to them post graduate, but the depth at which you cover their personal attributes through self assessments and personality profiles should allow them to really narrow their career goals.

I believe along with the the college search (and the essay assignment is a GREAT idea), the career research assignment and the career gateway tools, the students should have some formative decisions already made by the time they decide to start visiting colleges, looking at trade schools or joining the work force.

I have two questions:

Is there a segment in Futures that allows the students to look at how joining a branch of the military could assist them with educational costs?

How would the students be expected to complete an online course for Futures II if there is no room in their schedule?]]> 2018-03-06 20:53:39 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/238895191 Caitlin Hunt https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239412516 I wonder if Futures 1 and 2 could be taught as a blended/hybrid class?  That might be a good way for busy students to still take these classes while also still being able to take another blended elective of their choice.  It’s also nice to see that these classes touch upon personal issues and how those can affect your career.  I always hear students complaining that everything is so focused on the future, but this shows them a way of using their past to inform their present and future.  Additionally, I feel like there could be an entire course on soft skills!  I wonder if bringing back the 9th grade enrichment from last year would be something that might help them improve their soft skills.  Other than that, I am so impressed with all of the resources that we are giving to our students for college and career readiness!  So cool!]]> 2018-03-07 21:14:44 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239412516 Emily Wolfe https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239926370 I like how much you guys do to really make the kids think about their lives and "future."
I always try to teach my juniors about metacognition and your department is definitely priming the pump for these discussions. 
During my own exploring, I really liked how in Naviance they can search the idea of "Will my degree pay itself off?". ]]> 2018-03-08 21:19:19 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239926370 Heidi Tobia https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239977082 This was a very thorough explanation of what the Business Department has to offer. I think you do a great job forcing the students to think about their future. I add the test results obtained from the Futures 1 and Futures 2 classes into each of my IEPs, so I have a good understanding about the information obtained from these assessments. The only observation that I have is that I think the Futures classes focus more on college than they do entering directly into the workforce. Don't get me wrong, I think it's great to have the kids check out colleges, but I think it's equally important to address the needs that the non-post secondary ed kids need. Maybe there is more of this involved with the course than I am aware of...such as resume prep.]]> 2018-03-09 01:07:07 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/239977082 Tammy Grimes https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240376024 It was interesting to see the various courses offered through the business department and the programs used by the students.  I appreciated the Naviance program preview as I have wanted to learn more about the test preparation (especially SAT prep) offered.   
I also enjoyed learning more about the Futures I and II curriculum and how well they link with what I have seen in the middle school career connections program - especially in soft skills awareness and exploration of interests.  Our students are so fortunate to have such thorough preparation for life after high school.  
I also liked the idea of exploring course offerings at neighboring school districts and initiating collaboration with those districts.  This is something I think would be beneficial in all departments.
The intro to this video was awesome!!]]> 2018-03-09 21:27:39 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240376024 Dale Shreiner https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240494676 This was a great introduction into the Business department for someone who is new. The amount of career and college prep this school offers is outstanding. To see the Business department help prepare kids for their future is awesome. 
Naviance is a pretty awesome resource. I wish that was around when I was in high school. I wouldn't of felt so unprepared after I graduated high school. 
It's good to know all the department offers so I can refer students who have questions. 
It's also great to see MAHS working with other high schools. ]]> 2018-03-10 21:01:53 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240494676 Jessica Drake https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240639731 This was a really helpful presentation as a new teacher at MAHS. I have heard students talk about Futures I and Futures II, but I didn't really know what material was covered. In fact, students have complained that the material wasn't relevant for them. Now I can definitely say otherwise! I appreciate the effort put in toward helping students with college and career planning. Especially, getting to look at how they can turn their interests into a career. 

I would love to see students use information they learn in these classes to guide what classes they take. I think a lot of students feel like their "told" what classes they need to take instead of really investigating the options they have in their Pathway. 

Quick comments on the video: I loved the opening and it was very well edited. However, it was a little hard to hear what each person was saying because of the music added on top. I liked there was background music, but it would have been helpful if the speaking voice was a little louder.]]> 2018-03-11 22:06:03 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240639731 Lisa Smith lisasmith5 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240648184 I thought this was a great way to introduce these classes for someone who just started at Middletown. This seems to be a great tool for students in figuring out who they are and different career choices that might interest them. During our practice day for the Senior Interviews, both of the students who presented in homeroom said that Futures really helped them decide on a career choice and one even mentioned it taught her that the career she thought she wanted didn't really make sense for her. I'm glad these classes are offered. ]]> 2018-03-11 23:06:18 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240648184 Julie Killian https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240653268 I liked getting an overview of exactly what the Futures classes cover. I think the 
 college search websites were just getting started when I was in high school - they seem like a great tool for students, because that process can be overwhelming! I was curious how much of the career discovery and searching happens in junior or senior year. For some kids (like me), it can be hard to narrow down the options as a freshman or sophomore, and college seems far away. It seems like it would be helpful to revisit some of the assessments and searches during the second half of high school.

Thanks for sharing the resources such as the Career Coach and the Job Gateway. Those could be useful for anyone we know who is trying to find a job.]]> 2018-03-11 23:44:48 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240653268 JJ Ortiz jortiz32 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240780157 These are powerful resources for our students. Many of them definitely feel overwhelmed throughout many of the processes covered in your video. Naviance is an underutilized tool that can have a positive impact on preparation for post secondary plans and AP prep. I agree with Julie that it would be helpful to revisit some of the assessments later in their high school career. Kids would have an opportunity to gather more experiences and information for such an important decision.
 ]]> 2018-03-12 11:17:53 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240780157 David Martin https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240960447 Great summery of the courses that the Business department offers. I was impressed with the amount of information that students have to make a decision on what to do after high school. The college connection website would be very helpful for selecting a college. ]]> 2018-03-12 16:09:43 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/240960447 Kathy Sayre https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241088593 This was a good overview of the business department. It is so important for students to start looking at various careers. It is just as helpful for them to figure out the careers they can eliminate. It seems like the courses and software offer a great opportunity for all students.]]> 2018-03-12 19:30:41 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241088593 Rebecca Kotzman rkotzman https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241141731 I really liked how your group aimed to revisit the business courses to establish an online presence with Canvas. Also, it was a great idea to incorporate a variety of resources like Choices360, Naviance, College Super Match, Career Coach, and Job Gateway, into the business curriculum for our students. The amount of choice tells students that the possibilities beyond high school are endless and our students can accomplish anything they put their mind to! 

My only recommendation is to look at developing cross-curricular projects and assignments with 7 Habits of High Effective Teens! ]]> 2018-03-12 22:22:19 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241141731 Roy O’NeillInteresting to see what some of the other departments are teachingFutures I more of the intro classes and the self assessment and to be able to connect your interest to your career very important.Liked Mr. Burke’s part of the video and how he talked about the online class for those who don’t have the time. Thought Mr Burke had some interesting assignments – the Hero assignment as well as mission statements important.Other things thought were interesting: importance of soft skills, listening skills, TeamworkCollege Super Match pretty neat tool as well. loneill3 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241157773 2018-03-12 23:55:44 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241157773 Deanna Morder https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241592805 Interesting perspective on the business department end of education, sooo many options for the students. I liked the different skills assessments helping students learn their strengths and what they need to work on. ]]> 2018-03-13 19:19:21 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241592805 Char Hurst https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241650115 Nice introduction! I frequently use Naviance information when writing the transition part of my students' IEP's. It is very helpful in targeting interest areas of the students. I especially like the Do What Your Are personality profiles which provides helpful information in matching students with careers. I think Futures I and Futures II are great courses that really assist students in determining career pathways and transitional opportunities.

]]> 2018-03-13 22:22:35 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241650115 Jon Dickey https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241683038 Professionally done!! It was very informative and interesting to acquire what the business department has evolved into. It would be interesting to have a student perspective of how all the information has and will assist them with future decisions. ]]> 2018-03-14 01:24:50 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/241683038 Ashley Kessel akessel3 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243110478 I really appreciate the effort you put into this video! This is my 3rd year teaching at Middletown and unfortunately I've had very little interaction with the business department. I found this very informative and I think I have a better understanding of the purpose of the department as well as where you see yourself going in the future. 

I agree with Jon Dickey that it would be interesting to get a student perspective. My high school didn't have anything nearly as immersive and I wonder how some of my college/career decisions may have been influenced had I taken a course like Futures. ]]> 2018-03-17 19:05:34 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243110478 Jody Wenrich https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243202769 A big "thank you" for the information presented in your video.  To be honest, other than writing letters of recommendation for students using Naviance, I have very little experience with programming currently offered to students as they search out, prepare for, and pursue post high school endeavors.  This has/will be a great resource for me as a parent as well as my oldest son begins this process.]]> 2018-03-18 15:37:30 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243202769 Ray Shearer https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243221255 The Business Department and the Guidance Staff provides Middletown students with many resources to help the students plan for their future.  Making these resources available to the students and making sure the students know where to go to find the resources is a key to success.  It would be great to have these resources also available to the district community.  The resources should be highlighted in district publications and the website to make it clear what resources are being made avaible to the Middletown student body.  My main thought on having a course for students to complete outside of a traditional classroom is “When?”  In the video it was mentioned that that the online version of the would be available to students who cannot fit Futures 2 into their schedule.  When would the students have time to complete the class if they currently do not have time within their school day?  ]]> 2018-03-18 17:39:38 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243221255 Cassandra Pribanich https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243255173 It is nice to see what other departments are doing. Being able to see how our school's business department is comparable to local districts and colleges shows that we are leaders in the field.

Have you considered developing a futures portfolio for students or having them develop one of their own? This could be as simple as a folder in Google Drive where certain documents or test scores need to be maintained. Some students are disorganized, and this may help to streamline things. It could be used for Futures I & Futures II along with other documents from classes that support their goals, like a Career Action Plan.

Also, offering Futures II as a purely blended course, with a Monday morning check-in or scheduled Flex time like required for remediation or certain AP classes is very doable. Like other online or blended courses, students would have deadlines and need to stay on top of their work. One thing I would say is to have students "blocked" from working too far ahead. I think part of the Futures is time to process what is happening with their plans. Another thing that can be helpful is to use TurnItIn to make sure student work is not "borrowed" from another student or website for accountability.]]> 2018-03-18 21:06:08 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243255173 Dana Schlader https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243259953 I really enjoyed learning more about the business department. Futures has really evolved since I started working here. It seems that great initiative has been taken to really flesh out Futures classes and make them more meaningful. I really wish I would have had something like this at my high school. The Supermatch360 program looks awesome as well! I like how colleges can be compared and can help students narrow their searches. 

I think our school does an awesome job with pathway opportunities helping to get kids plugged into classes that will really benefit them some day. Going to the Integrated Learning Conference at PSU a few years ago opened my eyes to the resources that our school provides for its students. Many schools do not have the ability to offer what we have. It's nice to know that we are leaders in this area! 

Lastly, another website to consider in helping students get scholarships is:
www.myscholly.com. It does have a monthly fee of $2.99, but this site could award students lots of free money towards higher education. 

]]> 2018-03-18 21:40:35 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243259953 Tami Beckenbaugh https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243283096 There is great information regarding resources on the Naviance website, financial information For students on the different college and post secondary training options they might choose. I like that there much information given on finances and costs of different choices. The information on different business classes offered in MASD is very helpful, especially for me, since I am fairly new to the district. I love all of the different websites for information on careers, overwhelming for one not familiar with it but helpful if one needs really specific details on careers and colleges. This video was very helpful.]]> 2018-03-19 00:28:31 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243283096 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243284071 2018-03-19 00:35:41 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243284071 Tami Beckenbaugh https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243284072 2018-03-19 00:35:42 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243284072 Rob Brodish https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243793599 Nice video! Very informative, I like the explanations of the courses and how the content is relevant to each student. The materials and resources used within the classes seem to help our students explore possible careers and how they may personally fit in those job fields. I agree with Miss Drake, I think some of the results of the assessments should be used to guide our student's course choices in regards to electives.]]> 2018-03-19 23:23:55 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243793599 Yvette Howard https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243795838 I am super excited about the futures course being fully online in the near future because I have seen the trend of more students being unable to take the course when it is designated due to course constraints. I think the research on the neighboring districts and what colleges are looking for will definitely be a benefit for future course offerings but it will help students to take the courses that will help them better to compete at the secondary level. The online tools and resources are excellent and could definitely be used in helping students to be better prepared post high school. ]]> 2018-03-19 23:40:53 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243795838 Bob Stitt https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243924264 Great presentation on the Business Department and how it has adapted to meet student needs. An online format would be perfect for the Futures course. You are definitely providing our students with a wealth of career information at their fingertips.

]]> 2018-03-20 10:53:02 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/243924264 Jesse Woodrow jwoodrow https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244235121 It is very helpful to see how the Business curriculum is transforming to help the students in today's time. These sorts of lessons must be extremely helpful for these students. Are you planning or have you planned to do any sort of exit survey after the courses to see what they found the most helpful? The soft skills pre test seems to be a great idea for these students because then the educator can hone in on each individuals student's needs. It reminds me of coaching a sport such as baseball and being able to individually focus on the players' swings. Great job guys! Coach 'em up! Thanks for all you do! ]]> 2018-03-20 19:16:45 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244235121 Bob Pelletier https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244287832 I actually do much of what the student's do in Futures 1 and 2. I didn't realize we had so many business courses. I think a class like money matters should be offered to all student's. It was a nice touch to research what courses other schools were offering their students in the business department. It was really helpful to see all that we do. Thanks.
s
s]]> 2018-03-20 21:26:49 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244287832 Christopher Brown cbrown125 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244302267 I loved the intro. Very nice! It was interesting to see an overview of what is taught in Futures I and II. As a special education teacher and also being in charge of students in Raider Academy, I would like to incorporate the online Futures I and II courses for all of the RA students. It not only would be of great benefit to them, it also helps the special ed department fulfill the many transition requirements from the state. The college Supermatch looked like a really good resource. I can see that students would really benefit from it. I will probably be using the career coach with some of my students. ]]> 2018-03-20 22:36:35 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244302267 Katelyn Murk kmurk https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244303893 I have always been impressed with the business department and pathway program, and it is great to see the evolution of the Futures classes and college prep opportunities offered to our students.  The soft skills taught in the futures classes are skills that so many of our students need to learn, and they are necessary for application in their other academic classes, as well.  Naviance, Supermatch, Choices 360 are incredibly helpful programs to our community, and I wish that I would have had these systems to help me in high school!  The analysis of programs offered at other high school and local colleges is solid information to have.
 
It might be interesting to see how the business department could further develop the senior graduation requirements with the Career Action Plan.  I really like the interview process that we do; however, it might be beneficial to have them write a resume to bring along to the interview along with the paper.  This might be something that they already do, so if so, great!
]]> 2018-03-20 22:45:57 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244303893 Brian Keyser https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244314710 Thank you for a very informative video about what the Business Department is doing to meet the needs of the 21st century student. Some big ideas that have been put into practice. One of the biggest reasons I had no reservations moving my family into the Middletown Area School District was how we prepare our students for their future through our Pathways program and the career exploration that the Business Department is a big part of. Are we still getting post-graduation responses from our students to find out what is working and what needs to be tweaked? I know we did this at one point. I wasn't sure if it was still going on. I would think this could be a source of data to help your department even further with what things to offer and focus on. Thanks again for your efforts.]]> 2018-03-20 23:52:19 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244314710 Josh Rytel jrytel https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244344702 I really enjoyed watching the review of all of the business departments classes.  I think it is great how the business department focuses on the students interests and focusing on the futures of the students including career planning, college readiness and life after college.  I enjoy discussing with my students about their career/college plans and goals for life after college.  I really enjoyed viewing what the Futures class provides, especially Futures II and how it’s relatable for the students in their pathway and in government/economics.  I feel that after seeing what the classes focus on I believe that it is essential and needed for students at Middletown.  It is very interesting to see what other schools focus on in the business curriculum.]]> 2018-03-21 02:45:56 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244344702 Lisa O’Connell loconnell12 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244353765 I really enjoyed the update to our business department and Futures classes.  It is great that we are continually updating and expanding these courses to support our students.  I especially like the new ability to allow some students to complete Futures II when their schedules does not permit it.  My one concern it the large focus on colleges when we do have a percentage of students that will just be going into the work force.  I think adding a portion that looks at apprenticeship through local unions and manufacturing would complement these courses.  The additions of the courses Michele brought to us throu grants is something I would like to see continued as an option for our students.
Thank you]]> 2018-03-21 03:44:42 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244353765 Pete Fox https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244435913 It is an interesting evolution which this department has experienced.  At the beginning of my career, I think they still offered "shorthand" as a course offering.  Some of the other courses were typing I, typing II, etc.  I guess we aren't offering shorthand any longer are we?  haha
The entire curriculum changed with the evolution of the PC.  Fortunately, we no longer have to dedicate an inordinate amount of time in the instruction of minimal error typing.
I also appreciate that the career development portion of education has been adopted by the business department. At one time, this important topic for students was not well directed as guidance may have coordinated with several departments.]]> 2018-03-21 10:23:37 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244435913 Tiffany Lewis https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244457270
I always knew that the students had to take Futures, and over the years I have learned a little about what they did in the course, but this video was very informative.  I also didn’t know about the resources for labor and industry.  I can use these resources to help students explore STEM fields they may be interested in!  I often stress to the students how lucky they are to have the programs in place at the high school that forces them to repeatedly think about their futures.  As a student in high school, I was never really forced to think about what I was interested in, or reflect on how my interests changed over time.  They are lucky to receive so many opportunities to do this! 

Now that I know more about what they do in Futures, I can remind them of the things they learned about and how these life skills can be applied to all areas of their education.  When your PLC looked into the courses offered by other schools, how did you feel Middletown compared?  I know that you should common courses highlighted in yellow, but are we more advanced in the courses we offer?  When I am out with teachers from other districts, people always comment on our pathways program and opportunities the students have to explore their future/prepare for their career.  I applaud you guys for all of the important content that you teach the students to help them be successful in their future!  ]]> 2018-03-21 11:35:36 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244457270 Andrew Vensel avensel https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244476399 I strongly believe that one of the greatest gifts that Middletown gives to their students is a plan for the future. Thank you business department for all of the guidance and resources that you provide for our students. 

I love the Myers Briggs personality profile.  I am an ENFP. 


]]> 2018-03-21 12:25:55 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244476399 Andrea Holtry https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244484144 Middletown can be very proud of the fantastic preparation that students have for their futures. Whenever I talk to people from other districts, I realize that Middletown has been a leader in this area for many years. The dedication of Mrs. Myers and the Business Department results in limitless self-discovery possibilities. Going forward, I would love to work collaboratively with the Business Department to incorporate our FCS standards in "Balancing Family, Work and Community Responsibilities." Referring to the PA Career Guide, is there any wonder that there are 1626 openings per year in PA for a career in which the average earnings are $20,100? One of the lowest paid occupations in PA is also one of the most important jobs. How are our children going to be ready for kindergarten, if the workers that have the job of preparing them for school are the least valued employees in the Commonwealth?
 ]]> 2018-03-21 12:43:06 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244484144 Tim Neff https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244517409 That you for putting this together and updating us on your current status and future plans. Since I have been teaching at Middletown, we have always been one of the leaders in the area in providing resources for our students to prepare for their futures. I think the opportunity to explore the careers available is an invaluable resource that I hope our students appreciate. As this video displayed, you are continuing to analyze the current trends of post-secondary and the needs of our students in this ever changing world we live in, and just .your curriculum as needed. I know it wasn't mentioned in detail in this presentation, but all the opportunities you provide the kids for internships is also invaluable to many of them and help them realize whether a career is good for them or if they should look in a different direction.   

The only question I have is the preparation for the non-college students. I know in futures 2 that you mentioned about college searches and they can pick associates or bachelors degree options, but what about section of the student population that isn't going on any post-secondary education? Do you have criteria 
or different resources for those students as well?]]> 2018-03-21 13:42:39 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244517409 Adam Shaffer ashaffer5 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244531893 As a Pathway Chair, I was very proud to see more detail about Futures I and Futures II. This helped to explain why our seniors are so prepared for their senior presentations. Our business partners at those presentations always are very complimentary of how prepared our students are. The same goes for feedback I 
 get after the Career Expo... our business parters are always very happy with our students knowledge of careers they may want to investigate, post-secondary options and overall understanding of what Pathway that are interested in. Nice work, and keep of the great work with Futures I and II!]]> 2018-03-21 14:07:27 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244531893 Lynn Fallinger https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244619156 I think it is neat to see the course the business department offers. I like that you are going to be able to offer Futures II online for students who are unable to fit it in to their schedule. I know that it is a very helpful course but some students struggle to fit it in their schedule. I think it is also neat to see the resources that the students are made aware of in planning their future. ]]> 2018-03-21 16:27:08 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244619156 Trent Baker https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244651131 I think it is great to see the amount of resources our students have available to them as they reach the important time after high school where many feel uncomfortable or anxious about what happens next.  The fact that all students are given access these resources is crucial especially because as it was stated it may not fit in everyone’s schedule. A lot great opportunities for students being provided here!]]> 2018-03-21 17:21:26 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244651131 Cheryl Friedman https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244656884 Although I thought I knew the "ins and outs" of the business departments courses (especially the Futures 1 and 2 courses), I learned a lot about both curriculums that I did not know. I am familiar with Naviance, but not so much the Choices 360 program, so it was nice to see that component and how it is utilized in those two courses.  It gives the students a great foundation from which the guidance staff can continue to build on (soft skills, transferrable skills, and much of the college search information). I also love the idea of putting both Futures courses on-line if possible.  The connection made to other local schools and post secondary institutes was a critical piece to keep us relevant and moving forward. I like that we have offered additional courses the past coupe of years and hope we continue to move forward now that we are in touch with other districts and what they are doing.Michele's piece on the labor and industry was helpful  and I will definitely utilize the websites mentioned as they too are good tools to use with students.

]]> 2018-03-21 17:31:04 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244656884 Ashley Devine https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244719682 Nice touch with Carnes... It is very obvious that this was the business department's PLC with the cool video effects- impressive. 

This was super helpful in that I honestly was not familiar with what the curriculum for Futures looks like- especially between Futures I and II. As part of my psychological evaluations, my reports require a transition component, which is essentially a better understanding of their future career plans, college plans, life skills, etc... I'm curious if it would be beneficial to obtain input from these teachers  for this part of the eval... from some of the examples you've shown in your presentation, we overlap many of the same questions.

I wish I knew about that college search website when I was applying... I felt so lost during that process...


]]> 2018-03-21 19:14:43 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244719682 Daniel Riggs driggs3 https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244811687 First, I would like to say that I really liked your introduction. I knew we offered Futures I and Futures II, but I never really knew what they covered. I think it is awesome how these classes help students discover who they really are (personality type, skills, and leadership) and their future goals (college and careers). I also liked how you compared the business courses that were offered here at Middletown Area High School to other high schools. I actually did not realize we offered that many business courses. ]]> 2018-03-22 01:34:51 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/244811687 Liz Strite https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245064391 The futures curriculum has really evolved and sounds like it provides students with a comprehensive, personalized approach to self-exploration and post-secondary/ career readiness. Both Naviance and Choice 360 sound like great resources. I really like the idea of offering an online futures course. It has been challenging for some students to fit courses into an already packed schedule.  I really like Ray Shearer’s idea of creating a district directory for students and parents. I know I had some students who had commented that they forgot a lot of information and the process regarding how to apply to college from their sophomore year once it was time. This would also be helpful to those students who decide to change their pathway later in their high school career.]]> 2018-03-22 15:36:43 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245064391 Luke Copenhaver https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245280847 I’d always heard about the futures courses without knowing much about them other than that they were helpful to students.  It’s good to see some detail about what students are learning in there.  It’s also good to know that they are still being revised and improved.  It’s good to see that the Naviance resources align well with what is being done in futures 1.  I also think it’s good that both futures courses are supplemented so well on Canvas that they are getting toward being more blended/independent classes.  It’s positive to hear that students are able to make informed decisions about their future with the research that they do in Futures II.  I feel it’s good that the business department is looking at post-secondary and using the research and partnerships there to revise the curriculum here at the high school.  The resources for labor and industry look awesome.  It is an area that I feel our students could take advantage of and benefit greatly from.  It’s cool that it addresses Pennsylvania careers and information.  ]]> 2018-03-22 23:58:10 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245280847 Chris Bradford https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245281492 I will most certainly take away some key aspects from this video and be able, if nothing else, to talk about them with my students. With seniors, we eventually get to a point (right about now in the school year) where the sole focus is on what's next. Being able to reflect and call back the things that Middletown has helped stress and prepare them for, will allow for a more informed conversation on my end. It is also something that, when preparing senior papers and prepping for the graduation requirements that come senior year, I can help to do a better job getting them where they need to be. ]]> 2018-03-23 00:02:53 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245281492 Amy McPhilemy https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245385009 I think that the input our students have on their own education and future is so relevant and pertinent! I LOVE what MASD does for our students and the preparation that we give our seniors graduating! It's so enlightening to see exactly what our students are being taught, what pathway preparation they are given, and how things are evolving in the world of college and career readiness. All of the resources provided look awesome as well! Great job!]]> 2018-03-23 10:37:25 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245385009 Phil Boehmer pboehmer https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245662171 I didn't realize how many different business related courses we offer and what the Futures I/II cover. I also didn't realize all the resources students had available to them, very informative! Very neat to see what other districts offer for business related courses too. ]]> 2018-03-23 20:40:12 UTC https://padlet.com/cmostoller1/rvfswapzmr4e/wish/245662171