About the Webinar:
This presentation addressed the challenges of students choosing work over education, leading to high negative withdrawal rates and impacting graduation rates. It highlighted the benefits of a pre-college schedule at the high school level, enabling students to attend school, improve their GPA, and earn credits while working. Attendees participated in an activity designed to encourage broader thinking and innovative approaches. The session also provided strategies for engaging traditional schools and businesses to support struggling students in achieving success.
Working Towards High School Diplomas
Presenter:
- Darryl Blackall, Principal, Workforce Advantage Academy
- W. Carl Merrell, Chief of Staff, Workforce Advantage Academy
- Kenneth Hartsaw, CEO/Founder, Workforce Advantage Academy
Date/Time: November 21, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
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Handouts / Slides:
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Session Summary
This presentation, "Working Towards High School Diplomas," by Darryl Blackall, W. Carl Merrell, and Kenneth Hartsaw from Workforce Advantage Academy, explores innovative strategies for engaging students and improving graduation rates. The session begins with the presenters sharing their personal experiences and the history of Workforce Advantage Academy, highlighting their unique approach to education. The presenters emphasize the importance of thinking outside the box and challenging traditional educational practices to meet the needs of today's students.
The presentation then delves into the benefits of a pre-college schedule at the high school level, which allows students to attend school while also working a full day. This model provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world work experience, earn money, and improve their GPA through elective credits earned for their job. The presenters discuss the importance of teaching students essential skills for success in the workforce, such as resume writing, interview skills, and financial literacy.
The presentation also highlights the importance of collaboration between schools, businesses, and the community to support struggling students. The presenters share their experiences in building relationships with local businesses to create job opportunities for students and provide them with the support they need to succeed in the workplace.
The presentation also emphasizes the importance of providing students with a well-rounded education that includes not only academics but also life skills, critical thinking, and social-emotional learning. The presenters discuss the challenges faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the need for individualized support and guidance to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
The presentation concludes with a Q&A session, where the presenters address questions from the audience on a variety of topics, including the logistics of the pre-college schedule, the role of technology in education, and the importance of community partnerships. The presenters emphasize the importance of thinking outside the box and challenging traditional educational practices to meet the needs of today's students.