NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Zina McGowan-Thomas , Public Information Officer, 301-475-5511, ext. 193

SMCPS ELIMINATES PROGRAM, ADDS ANOTHER

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Public Schools has created a variety of new pathways for student success.  As a result of internal program reviews and as an outgrowth of St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ Task Force to Eliminate the Achievement Gap, the Middle School Task Force, and most recently the High School Task Force, a decision has been made to close an existing program and create a new pathway.  The White Oak Secondary Center will close at the end of the current school year.   Students from that program will return to their home schools next fall.  Individual transition meetings will occur for each student throughout the spring.  A letter has been sent to the parents of each student currently attending the White Oak Center.

The school system will launch its newest pathway, Fairlead Academy , in August 2008.  It will be housed in the facility currently supporting the White Oak Secondary Center.  The Fairlead Academy is a ninth grade academy that will provide an opportunity to a small cohort of students.  These students will have access to a personalized educational program that will include a smaller and a more hands-on learning environment.  Classrooms will be rich with the newest technology.  Students will work in teams in 90 minute instructional learning blocks.  Students will also participate in daily mentoring activities that will build their skills as independent thinkers, learners, and leaders.

“With a laser like focus on improving student achievement, we must implement programs that work for all students,” said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools.  “Through sound research, we must do those things that address the needs of our students who need an alternative pathway to high school completion.”

Sixty students will be invited to participate in the Fairlead Academy during the 2008-2009 school year.  Parent Information Nights will take place after spring break. Parents of current eighth grade students who are eligible for the academy will receive information about these information sessions.

For information about the closing of the White Oak Secondary Center program, please contact Ms. Linda Dudderar, chief academic officer, at 301-475-5511, ext. 108.  For information about the new ninth grade program, Fairlead Academy , please contact Mr. Theo Cramer, director of academic support, at 301-475-5511, ext 136.

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