U-46 to highlight high school academies at open house
Elgin Area District U-46 is hosting a series of open house events to highlight the district's five high school academy programs. Academy Open Houses are designed for seventh- and eighth-graders and their parents, and will be offered at 7 p.m. and again at 8:15 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 17-18, at each U-46 high school.
"We're excited to once again give our middle school students and families more information and a tour of our popular high school academies," said U-46 CEO Tony Sanders. "These open houses follow Explore 2018, our annual curriculum and career expo, and allow eighth graders and their families a chance to learn more about these supportive small learning environments and the application process."
The open houses allow each high school site to present an in-depth preview of the academy program housed at their school. Completed academy applications can be submitted starting Sept. 17 and are due on or before Monday, Oct. 15.
For more information on the application process or to fill out the online application, visit the district's Academy Web page, www.u-46.org.
Eighth-grade students in good standing who live within the U-46 attendance boundaries are eligible to apply for the programs, which offer hands-on, industry-specific training, state-of-the art technology, and an opportunity to get a head start on higher education.
The five academies are:
Bartlett High School:
The Science, Engineering and Technology Academy offers state-of-the-art laboratory setups in place of traditional classrooms, providing students with accelerated math and science curriculum, advanced placement opportunities, and experience using next generation technologies. Students can take advantage of fun robotics and STEM workshops and competitions, Project Lead the Way curriculum, courses for college credit, STEM-focused internships and more.
Elgin High School:
The Gifted and Talented Academy provides a rigorous, innovative academic environment to challenge both the intellectual and creative abilities of gifted and talented students. Students are encouraged to maximize their potential through independent study, mentorships and internships.
Larkin High School:
The Visual and Performing Arts Academy provides artistically talented students with a comprehensive arts-based education. Students are offered honors curriculum in dance, drama, instrumental music, visual art and vocal music.
South Elgin High School:
The Beacon Academy of Media and Digital Arts provides students with hands-on experience in audio and video production, broadcast journalism, webcasting and web design. Students have benefitted from industry training with media professionals, interviewing state and world leaders, and producing commercials for corporate clients.
Streamwood High School:
The World Languages and International Studies Academy allows students to pursue special interests in history, language arts, foreign language and business through an integrated honors program. The program prepares students for further studies and successful employment in a global economy with the opportunity to earn the equivalent of six years in Japanese, Mandarin or Spanish.