By Sue Kennedy
Special to the Turnagain Times
The task force for the new Co-op school opening Sept. 8, 2008 had another successful meeting on the April 23 with guest speaker Charlotte Seewald representing the University of Nebraska’s Distance Learning Program. Parents were able to view firsthand the outstanding materials offered, including a convincing and enthusiastic testimonial from a local Girdwood student currently using one of Nebraska’s independent high school courses. The school is not limited to Nebraska’s curriculum but after much consideration chose to open with this prestigious program at its core. College prep based, the high school courses are no nonsense academics that are nationally acclaimed.
The new school offers Girdwood students a quality education in a supervised non-distractive setting. The actual location for the school is still in the decision process; possibilities include the Meadows Community Center and the new Girdwood Community Center.
A grant from Girdwood 2020 with help from Alyeska Resort who is donating technical support will assist in the set-up process after the location is finalized.
Recent news releases rank Alaska near the bottom in high school performance and college enrollment nationwide. Alaska’s post secondary Education Commission states one reason for this is “Alaska is a state of individualism, of people doing their own thing”.
The new Girdwood/Family Partnership Charter School is adapted to serving the individual needs of parents who want to assure a quality education but need time for business, travel, or other siblings. The class room will provide professional oversight and a structured environment for students’ independent study programs. It is tailored for students with athletic or personal educational requirements, which are specific to their needs.
The school will provide the core academics. Students and parents will choose and manage their electives. A wide range of electives is available through Family Partnership, Anchorage School District, UAA, King Career Center, the internet, and private vendors.
Parents who have missed the most recent meetings and would like an application or more information may call the Girdwood/Family Partnership Charter School information/message line at 783-2467, gvohs@gmail.com.