Massachusetts State Scholars Initiative Continues at Worcester North High School
Worcester North High School will once again be a member of the Massachusetts State Scholars Initiative (SSI), a national program that connects business leaders with middle and high school students to motivate them to complete a rigorous course of study in high school. In 2006, Massachusetts was selected to join 14 other states as part of this national business/education partnership effort to increase the number of students who take a rigorous curriculum in high school. Currently, there are 24 states in the program.
The Massachusetts State Scholars Initiative works to link business and community leaders with students as they consider what courses they will take in high school. Through presentations, business volunteers help students understand the changing world of work and tougher postsecondary education environments, and will encourage students to take demanding high school courses that exceed current state requirements.
The Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP) is working with the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education (MBAE), a statewide business organization, to recruit and train business volunteers to meet with students and encourage them to excel.
According to Matt Morse, Principal at North High School, "Students need to know that the choices they make in high school can have a dramatic impact on their futures. Getting that message straight from the business community makes it much more relevant for students and their families."
The State Scholars course of study includes at least four years of English, four years of math (geometry, algebra 1 and 2, and a math course of his or her choice), three years of science (biology, chemistry, and physics), three and one-half years of social studies, and two years of foreign language.
To learn more about the program, or to become a business volunteer, please contact Katherine Lamanna, Program Director, Massachusetts State Scholars Initiative at 617-737-3122 or [email protected].
