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Recently honored with the U.S. Department of Education's 2000 Blue
Ribbon School Award, Upper St. Clair High School can't seem to stop
winning accolades. The Department of Education also has named USC
High School a "2000 New American High School."
Only nine other high schools nationwide received both honors. These
schools will attend a special reception in Washington, DC this fall.
New American High Schools are selected according to a strict set
of criteria. In short, though, Department of Education says
the honor means that a school "expects all students to meet
both challenging academic standards and acquire the communication,
problem-solving, computer, and technical skills necessary to pursue
college and careers in the 21st century."
Although the honor recognizes USC's excellence in academics and
student life, it comes with a good amount of responsibility.
New American High Schools are expected to conduct extensive outreach
and act as leaders in educational reform -- efforts for which they
receive a stipend from the Department of Education.
As a New American High School, USC also will be able to participate
in and have access to cutting-edge research projects, technical
assistance vendors, and information about grant opportunities. In
addition, the Department of Education plans to develop a learning
community of all New American High Schools, with further technical
assistance and information-sharing ventures.
More about the Department of Education's
award.
See related article about the 2000
National Blue Ribbon School Award.
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What exactly is a "New
American High School"?
Essentially, it's a model for education in the
21st century that comes as close as possible to the following
ideal defined by the U.S. Department of Education: All the
core activities of the school concentrate on student learning
and achievement.
All students are expected to master the same rigorous academic
material. High expectations are established for student
achievement.
Staff development and planning emphasize student learning
and achievement.
The curricula are challenging and relevant and cover material
in depth.
Schools use new forms of assessment.
Students get extra support from adults.
Students learn about careers and college opportunities through
real-life experiences.
Schools create small, highly personalized, and safe learning
environments.
Technology is integrated into the classroom to provide high-quality
instruction, and students have opportunities to gain computer
and other technical skills.
Periods of instruction are longer and more flexible.
Strong partnerships are forged with middle schools and colleges.
Schools form active alliances with parents, employers, community
members, and policymakers to promote student learning and
ensure accountability for results.
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