Connections

Cal Young Middle School

Why is this project important?

Connections is a block class at Cal Young Middle School for selected students whose learning styles often necessitate activities beyond the traditional classroom. In addition, connections students often lack organizational and study skills, and require frequent and consistent home/school communication to keep them on track and to sustain effort. However, the increased need of the students that the Connections Program is serving, we find ourselves needing further resources (a program coordinator, transportation to community service learning sites, and additional materials). This project is important because it provides support for student who would otherwise fall between the gaps and run a risk of failure.

Academic expectations for Connections students are no different than those of other Cal Young student; state benchmarks are strictly adhered to. However, classroom grading is more weighted on effort and turning in work than test scores or assessment. To help students stay organized and focused, each class receive a period of instructional assistant time a day, out of regular building staffing. The staff works hard to make personal connections with students who often relate better to an instructor's style or approach than the subject matter itself.

Another major goal of Connections involves assisting students socially. Building confidence through involvement in a team translate to a more positive attitude, and ultimately, academic success. Students take part in off campus teambuilding activities such as the ropes course, rafting, working in the community garden, and a Coast Clean-Up trip. Students engage in service learning projects that benefit their local community. Over the years, students and staff have forged lasting relationships with community organizations such as Head Start, Food for Lane County. SOLV, elementary schools, and retirement home.

Because Connections receive no extra funding, we have, in the past, relied on parent volunteers for transportation, but a majority of the families we are now serving are unfortunately in a position where they are unable to assist us. Also, in the past, we have been able to ask students to play field trip fees to pay for many of these activities. However, even with our fundraising efforts, we are now in a position where many of our students cannot afford to pay a field trip fee and need a scholarship.
Due to our changing population, we also require a Connection program coordinator. The coordinator would be in-charge of organizing monthly teacher/parent meetings, to keep parents informed of their child's progress, and would also be in charge of organizing the service learning opportunities with community organizations. With an ever increasing workload on teachers and the increase in the level of need among the students we serve, this is a vital position that we must have in order to maintain our program.

Who and how many will be served?

The Connections program can serves Cal Young students in grades 6, 7 and 8. The students selected for Connections are those that fall between the cracks, usually those who do not get any other type of school support (Special Education, 504 Plans, Mentors, etc...). Connections classes average 25 - 30 students at each grade level.

How will you evaluate the success of this project.

Our major measure of success will be the level student success at Cal Young, both academically (grades) and socially/emotionally. In addition, we will also use both a survey of Connections students and their parents to determine the success of the project.

Does this proposal build upon existing programs at Cal Young?

The Connections program at Cal Young has been in place since 2000, and has been part of the school-wide effort to better meet the need of all learners. However, with an increase in the level of students needs, we find ourselves scrambling to find resources to maintain the program.

How will the funds be spent?

Connections Program Coordinator Stipend; Student Fee Scholarships; Transportation to Community Service Sites.