Thursday, December 29, 2011
ASVAB Interpretation Scheduled
Those students at Verbena High School who took the ASVAB will have their scores interpreted by Rob Gaston on Monday, January 9, at 10:45, in Mrs. Thomas's classroom. Mr. Gaston will help you to understand what your ASVAB scores mean and what your strengths and weaknesses are.
Lott Leadership Institute at the University of Mississippi
The Lott Leadership Institute at the University of Mississippi is pleased to announce that the annual Lott Leadership Institute for High School Students is now taking nominations for the two 2012 sessions. A total of 44 (22 per session) outstanding rising seniors (current juniors) will be invited to the University of Mississippi campus to participate in this program promoting leadership and public service. These students will earn six hours of college credit while participating in discussion groups, panels, and debates on issues confronting leaders of the 21st century. Participants will also travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in discussions with state and national leaders. All participants in the program will receive scholarships to help with the costs of tuition, housing, meals, travel costs to D.C. (housing and meals). The costs to the students will be a $500 program fee, a $100 registration fee, textbooks and weekend meals. Students are encouraged to raise the $500. Cost should not prevent a student from applying! If you are a current junior who will have 15 high school credits by June 2012 with at least a 25 ACT or an 1150 SAT (Cr and M). The two session dates are May 28-June 29 and June 25-July 27. Please contact Mrs. Champion if you are eligible and interested in being nominated for this program. The nomination deadline is January 16, 2012.
Ai - The Art Institututes
For information about scholarships and the programs offered at The Art Institute, contact Heather Bullard, high school representative, at hbullard@aii.edu. Her cell phone is 205-329-3051 and the toll free number is 800-275-4242. The website for Ai is artinstitutes.edu.
2012 LSU Spring Invitational Program
If a senior student is interested in attending the 2012 LSU Spring Invitational Program, they have until March 20, 2012,to register. You must have an ACT score of 27 or higher. The dates of the LSU Spring Invitational Program are March 28-30. Attendance is limited to 1,700 seniors. All participants must be admitted to LSU before attending the program. Therefore, admission applications and necessary documents are due before January 13, 2012. For more information, please see Mrs. Champion or go to the website www.lsu.edu/spin.
UA Department of Theatre and Dance
If you are interested in majoring in any area of theatre or dance, you should consider the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Alabama. They are holding auditions on Saturday, January 21, 2012. Registration forms must be received by January 17, 2012. See Mrs. Champion for registration forms or more information.
ASU Founders' Week
The 111th Founders' Week for Alabama State University is February 7-10, 2012. There are special events scheduled for each day. For more information, please visit the ASU website at www.alasu.edu or call 334-229-6795.
Warhawk Welcome Day
Warhawk Welcome is the new name of Auburn Montgomery's preview day. In case you haven't heard, AUM is now home of the Warhawks! Warhawk Welcome will be a very exciting and informative day for parents and students. The event starts at 8:30 am on Saturday, January 21. The website for Auburn Montgomery is www.aum.edu.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Playing with Purpose Award
The 2011-2012 SportQuest Playing with Purpose Scholarship Program is now accepting applications! $12,700 of scholarships are available to Christian student athletes! Sophomore, junior, and senior athletes must meet the following criteria to apply:
1. Currently a high school sophomore, junior, or senior
2. Maintains a minimum "C" grade average or higher
3. Currently a varsity level athlete in one or more sports
4. A committed follower of Jesus Christ
To apply online or view a complete listing of program benefits go to www.playingwithpurpose.org. The phone number is 317-270-9495.
1. Currently a high school sophomore, junior, or senior
2. Maintains a minimum "C" grade average or higher
3. Currently a varsity level athlete in one or more sports
4. A committed follower of Jesus Christ
To apply online or view a complete listing of program benefits go to www.playingwithpurpose.org. The phone number is 317-270-9495.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Beta Club News
The Beta Club is having a busy month. With leadership from president Mattie Cleckler they are sponsoring the Beta Club Annual Ornament Sale which benefits the Birmingham Children's Hospital. The Beta Club started their annual ornament sale on Dec. 1 to find the most popular teacher at VHS.... (really the class that wants a party the most). Beta Club members go around during first block to sell the ornaments which will be 25 cents each. The grade K-2, grade 3-6, and high school class with the most ornaments by Dec. 14 will each get a pizza party!
The Beta Club will be going on December 12th to the Children's Hospital to bring gifts and sing songs for the patients. If you would like to help, please bring a new toy to the Verbena High School office.
Later this month the Beta Club will be tapping new members for induction into the organization.
The Beta Club will be going on December 12th to the Children's Hospital to bring gifts and sing songs for the patients. If you would like to help, please bring a new toy to the Verbena High School office.
Later this month the Beta Club will be tapping new members for induction into the organization.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
U. of Alabama Art History or Studio Art Scholarship
The Dept. of Art and Art History at the University of Alabama is offering three full-tuition academic scholarships to incoming freshman students who plan on majoring in studio or art history. The scholarships will be awarded based on the quality of the student's work and is contingent upon the student's admission to the University of Alabama for the fall semester of 2012. The student also must declare a major in art or art history. The web site is http://art.ua.edu. See Mrs. Champion for a copy of the application form. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 3, 2012.
Need Feedback
Seniors,
Please let me know if you apply for any of the scholarships mentioned in the Red Devil Hot Line. If you need more information about any scholarship or college, please email me at lchampion@chilton.k12.al.us.
Please let me know if you apply for any of the scholarships mentioned in the Red Devil Hot Line. If you need more information about any scholarship or college, please email me at lchampion@chilton.k12.al.us.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Verbena Students Love to Give to Others
I am so proud of the students at Verbena High School. They have been bringing hundreds of canned food items for our recent food drives sponsored by the FCCLA and the Beta Club. Way to go Verbena Devils!
Women's Alabama Golf Association Scholarship
Visit http://womensalabamagolf.com/scholarships/Scholarships.asp for more information and to download the application. They award 2 $2500 scholarships to deserving young women. Minimum ACT score is 22. Deadline is April 1, 2012.
Linly Heflin Scholarship for Girls
Go to http://www.linlyheflin.org/ssapplication12.pdf to download a scholarship application. The deadline is January 13, 2012. Minimum ACT score is 23.
2011 J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship
2011 Smith Scholarship Program. Go to www.smithscholarships.com for an application.
Deadline: January 15, 2012
Description
The Smith Scholarship Foundation is designed to fund college scholarships for deserving students throughout Alabama. Special consideration is given to applicants who would be the first in either their mother's or father's (or both parents') families to attend college. However, it is not a requirement that an applicant be the first in their family to attend college. The foundation was created by Mignon C. Smith in honor of her parents. Her father, J. Craig Smith, was President and CEO of Avondale Mills, that was a hallmark of the textile industry. Mr. Smith was an innovative leader who put employee scholarships in place and privately funded the education of several employees' children. Now, by having established The J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship Foundation and the "First In Family" College Scholarships, his daughter is continuing the family tradition of encouraging and inspiring others to learn.
Requirements
-Applicants have the option to scan supporting documents and submit it with their on-line application. This is the preferred method for providing documents.
If you cannot attach your supporting documents, you can mail them to us. We recommend that you send all information in one envelope. Please be sure your name is on each item. Do not use staples.
**The following documents are required to qualify for this scholarship.**
-A copy of your transcript of high school grades (9-12) is required. A minimum "C+" average is required for this scholarship. Please have your counselor provide your GPA on a 4.00 point scale.
-ACT (required) or SAT (optional) scores should be attached or mailed. No minimum test score is required for this scholarship. If the test has not been taken yet, please provide expected test date.
-You must write your own essay on your future plans or goals of accomplishment for yourself. The essay must be written by the applicant. It may be reviewed by a teacher, but the applicant must be the author.
-You must write your own essay documenting community and civic-oriented activities or assistance to family members must be attached or mailed. The essay must be written by the applicant. It may be reviewed by a teacher, but the applicant must be the author.
-Please provide three (3) personal recommendations from teachers, counselors, a member of a volunteer organization, professional or family members. You will be prompted to provide the address, e-mail and phone number of the person providing the recommendation. They will automatically receive an e-mail from us requesting the recommendation.
-You are required to provide a copy of pages (1) and (2) of the previous year's tax return for anyone in your household that files a tax return. Please redact (remove with black marker or white-out) all social security numbers.
Contact E-mail
gwen@smithscholarships.net
Contact Name
Gwen McDaniel© 2011 ScholarSelect
12-04-2014SSL Certificate
SSL Certificate
12-04-2014
Deadline: January 15, 2012
Description
The Smith Scholarship Foundation is designed to fund college scholarships for deserving students throughout Alabama. Special consideration is given to applicants who would be the first in either their mother's or father's (or both parents') families to attend college. However, it is not a requirement that an applicant be the first in their family to attend college. The foundation was created by Mignon C. Smith in honor of her parents. Her father, J. Craig Smith, was President and CEO of Avondale Mills, that was a hallmark of the textile industry. Mr. Smith was an innovative leader who put employee scholarships in place and privately funded the education of several employees' children. Now, by having established The J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship Foundation and the "First In Family" College Scholarships, his daughter is continuing the family tradition of encouraging and inspiring others to learn.
Requirements
-Applicants have the option to scan supporting documents and submit it with their on-line application. This is the preferred method for providing documents.
If you cannot attach your supporting documents, you can mail them to us. We recommend that you send all information in one envelope. Please be sure your name is on each item. Do not use staples.
**The following documents are required to qualify for this scholarship.**
-A copy of your transcript of high school grades (9-12) is required. A minimum "C+" average is required for this scholarship. Please have your counselor provide your GPA on a 4.00 point scale.
-ACT (required) or SAT (optional) scores should be attached or mailed. No minimum test score is required for this scholarship. If the test has not been taken yet, please provide expected test date.
-You must write your own essay on your future plans or goals of accomplishment for yourself. The essay must be written by the applicant. It may be reviewed by a teacher, but the applicant must be the author.
-You must write your own essay documenting community and civic-oriented activities or assistance to family members must be attached or mailed. The essay must be written by the applicant. It may be reviewed by a teacher, but the applicant must be the author.
-Please provide three (3) personal recommendations from teachers, counselors, a member of a volunteer organization, professional or family members. You will be prompted to provide the address, e-mail and phone number of the person providing the recommendation. They will automatically receive an e-mail from us requesting the recommendation.
-You are required to provide a copy of pages (1) and (2) of the previous year's tax return for anyone in your household that files a tax return. Please redact (remove with black marker or white-out) all social security numbers.
Contact E-mail
gwen@smithscholarships.net
Contact Name
Gwen McDaniel© 2011 ScholarSelect
12-04-2014SSL Certificate
SSL Certificate
12-04-2014
Alabama Home Builders Foundation Scholarship
Visit http://www.ahbfoundation.org/scholarship_fund_app.pdf for the application to the Alabama Home Builders Foundation Scholarship. Deadline is March 15. Must be enrolled in a construction-related curriculum.
KFC Colonel's Scholars Program
The Award
The Scholarship offered by the KFC Colonel's Scholars Program provides funding for:
•Tuition
•Fees
•Books
•Room and Board
Awards can be up to $5,000 per year. The scholar could receive up to $20,000 over four years to help complete a bachelor's degree.
Eligibility
To be eligible to compete for the KFC Colonel's Scholars Scholarship, an individual must:
•Graduate from high school this academic year (between 12/1/11 and 8/31/12)
•Earn a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.75
•Plan to pursue a bachelor's degree at a public, in-state college or university (start date no later than 9/30/12)
•Be a US citizen or permanent resident
•Demonstrate financial need
Scholars may begin their college career by entering into either a 2-or 4-year accredited in-state college/university, as long as they stay on track to complete a bachelor's degree program.
Scholarship Timeline
•Application process opens the first day of December
•Application process closes the middle of February
•Semifinalists are asked to provide additional documentation in March
•Selected scholars are notified in May
Selection Process
Completing the online application is the first step. NOTE: The 2012 application process opens on December 1, 2011. Visit www.kfcscholars.org to apply. After February 8, 2012, all submitted applications will be reviewed and semifinalists selected. Semifinalists will be asked to provide additional documentation in March 2012. After the semifinalist information is received, an independent selection committee will meet to select the KFC Colonel's Scholars.
Scholar Support
The KFC Colonel's Scholars Program has on-site staff to support the program. To contact staff, send an email to scholars@kfc.com.
In addition to the Program's staff, KFC Colonel's Scholar may be matched with a volunteer mentor.
Mentors include:
•KFC Franchisees
•KFC Employees
•Other members of the KFC Family
The Scholarship offered by the KFC Colonel's Scholars Program provides funding for:
•Tuition
•Fees
•Books
•Room and Board
Awards can be up to $5,000 per year. The scholar could receive up to $20,000 over four years to help complete a bachelor's degree.
Eligibility
To be eligible to compete for the KFC Colonel's Scholars Scholarship, an individual must:
•Graduate from high school this academic year (between 12/1/11 and 8/31/12)
•Earn a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.75
•Plan to pursue a bachelor's degree at a public, in-state college or university (start date no later than 9/30/12)
•Be a US citizen or permanent resident
•Demonstrate financial need
Scholars may begin their college career by entering into either a 2-or 4-year accredited in-state college/university, as long as they stay on track to complete a bachelor's degree program.
Scholarship Timeline
•Application process opens the first day of December
•Application process closes the middle of February
•Semifinalists are asked to provide additional documentation in March
•Selected scholars are notified in May
Selection Process
Completing the online application is the first step. NOTE: The 2012 application process opens on December 1, 2011. Visit www.kfcscholars.org to apply. After February 8, 2012, all submitted applications will be reviewed and semifinalists selected. Semifinalists will be asked to provide additional documentation in March 2012. After the semifinalist information is received, an independent selection committee will meet to select the KFC Colonel's Scholars.
Scholar Support
The KFC Colonel's Scholars Program has on-site staff to support the program. To contact staff, send an email to scholars@kfc.com.
In addition to the Program's staff, KFC Colonel's Scholar may be matched with a volunteer mentor.
Mentors include:
•KFC Franchisees
•KFC Employees
•Other members of the KFC Family
Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship
The 2012 Most Valuable Student application is due December 2, 2011. Go to their website for an application. The Elks National Foundation will award 500 four-year scholarships to the highest-rated applicants in the 2012 competition. Our nearest Elks lodge is in Calera, AL.
•Any high school senior who is a citizen of the United States is eligible to apply.
•Applicants need not be related to a member of the Elks.
•College students are not eligible to apply.
•Applicants must be citizens of the United States on the date their applications are signed; permanent legal resident status does not qualify.
•Male and female students compete separately.
Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
All scholarships are in the form of certificates of award conditional upon the full-time enrollment of the winner in an accredited U.S. college or university.
Applications must advance through local, district and state competitions to reach national judging. The Chicago office of the Elks National Foundation will notify the 500 national finalists by email in late February 2012. To be eligible for an award, national finalists will be required to submit a secondary application online. The national finalists will also be required to mail their Student Aid Report to the ENF. These applications are due March 23, 2012.
The Chicago office of the Elks National Foundation will announce the 500 national winners, and notify them in writing, by mid-April 2012. (Many local Lodges, districts and state Elks associations award their own scholarships through this program. These scholarships are not to be confused with the 500 Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarships.)
Ranging from $1,000 per year to $15,000 per year, Most Valuable Student scholarships are for students pursuing a four-year degree, on a full-time basis (minimum of 12 semester hours), in a U.S. college or university.
•Any high school senior who is a citizen of the United States is eligible to apply.
•Applicants need not be related to a member of the Elks.
•College students are not eligible to apply.
•Applicants must be citizens of the United States on the date their applications are signed; permanent legal resident status does not qualify.
•Male and female students compete separately.
Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
All scholarships are in the form of certificates of award conditional upon the full-time enrollment of the winner in an accredited U.S. college or university.
Applications must advance through local, district and state competitions to reach national judging. The Chicago office of the Elks National Foundation will notify the 500 national finalists by email in late February 2012. To be eligible for an award, national finalists will be required to submit a secondary application online. The national finalists will also be required to mail their Student Aid Report to the ENF. These applications are due March 23, 2012.
The Chicago office of the Elks National Foundation will announce the 500 national winners, and notify them in writing, by mid-April 2012. (Many local Lodges, districts and state Elks associations award their own scholarships through this program. These scholarships are not to be confused with the 500 Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarships.)
Ranging from $1,000 per year to $15,000 per year, Most Valuable Student scholarships are for students pursuing a four-year degree, on a full-time basis (minimum of 12 semester hours), in a U.S. college or university.
Horatio Alger Alabama Scholarships
Visit https://www.horatioalger.org/scholarships/program_alabama.cfm for information about this scholarship. 7 $5000 scholarships will be awarded to Alabama students. BE ONE OF THEM!
Senior Scholarships
Kids Chance
$450,000 worth of scholarships are available to seniors graduating from Alabama high schools who have had a parent disabled or killed while on the job. Awards of $500 to $3000 are given to students planning to enter college or technical schools. Applying for financial aid from the anticipated school is a requirement along with a transcript, proof of parental disability or death, and the previous year's income tax return. Applications are accepted online.
Kids Chance Scholarship Committee
Alabama Law Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 671
Montgomery, AL 36101
334-269-1515
alfinc.org
Buster Bynum Scholarship
The Buster Bynum Education Scholarship offers two $1000 scholarships to public school seniors who have parents working in public school transportation. Parents' gross household income over the past five years must be less than $75,000, and at least one parent must have been an employee involved in public school transportation for the past five years. Students must submit an official transcript, a statement from a school official verifying intent to attend college, a support letter from a teacher stating why this student deserves this scholarship, and a letter from the parent's employer verifying employment and income. Requirements are a grade point average of 3.0, leadership skills, community involvement, good citizenship and a 500-word essay on how the funds will be used. Students should print applications online and submit them along with supporting documents to the Director of Transportation of their school district.
Southeastern States Pupil Transportation Conference (SESPTC)
oaptonline.org
American Legion Alabama
An $850 scholarship is available from the American Legion Department of Alabama to a high school senior who is a legal Alabama resident. Eligibility is open to children and grandchildren of veterans who served during wartime. Students must submit a small picture, an unofficial transcript, two letters of reference and ACT/SAT scores. Applications can be printed online and then submitted by mail.
American Legion Scholarship
P.O. Box 1069
Montgomery, AL 36101
americanlegionalabama.org
Lola B Curry
The Scholarships of the United Daughters of the Confederacy have different requirements; some have restrictions and some don't. Some of the scholarships are dedicated to certain areas of study and some are geographically based. The Lola B Curry scholarship is restricted to an Alabama resident and student.
To be considered for this scholarship, the applicant must submit the original and four copies of the General Scholarship Packet, the official grade transcript and letters of recommendation.
One copy each of the photograph, (head and shoulders), the checklist and the Confederate ancestor's proof of service.
An applicant must be the lineal descendant of an eligible Confederate and have a 3.0 GPA in high school. Applicants must be endorsed by the President and the Second Vice President/Education Chairman of Chapter and Division and by the Second Vice President General.
For more information on this scholarship and to access the application, see their website.
Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP)
This is a state program that offers grants of approximately $360 per year to full-time undergraduate students who are legal residents of Alabama who are attending approved independent colleges or universities within the state of Alabama. Part-time recipients who are enrolled for at least 6 semester hours will receive a grant of approximately $180 per year. This grant is not based on need but rather on residency.
Students planning to enter a Church-based vocation are not eligible for the grant although there is a permissible limit for religious studies. One course in religious studies or Christian music is allowed per semester whether the student is part-time or full-time.
Applications for the Alabama Student Grant Program can be obtained and filed with the Office of Student Financial Aid. Grants shall be renewable annually.
Visit http://www.ache.state.al.us/StudentAsst/Programs.htm for other scholarship opportunities.
ACHE Junior & Community College Performing Arts Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
An award not to exceed in-state tuition only for attendance at public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Awards are based on demonstrated talent determined through competitive auditions. Awards are not based on financial needs. This award is for full-time students attending public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Contact the financial aid office at any public junior or [...] More
ACHE Police Officers and Firefighters Survivors Educational Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The ACHE Police Officers and Firefighters Survivors Educational Assistance Program is a grant covering tuition, fees, books and supplies for dependents and eligible spouses of Alabama police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. There is no limit on the amount awarded to recipients. Awards are available for undergraduate study in public institutions in Alabama. Students who are [...] More
Alabama Commission on Higher Education/Student Grant Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
Alabama residents enrolled in independent, nonprofit Alabama colleges and universities receive financial assistanct through the Alabama Student Grant Program. This program helps bridge the differential between public and private institutions, and helps provide Alabama students an opportunity to take programs and courses at private institutions. Individual grant payments to student are [...] More
Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program - A state program designed to provide financial assistance to Alabama National Guard members who are residents of the state of Alabama for undergraduate and graduate education at accredited post secondary institutions of higher learning located within the state of Alabama. The student may receive an award equal to tuition, fees, books, and [...] More
Alabama Student Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Alabama Student Assistance Program is a state-supported and federally-funded grant program which is designed to assist financially-needy students. It is the state's only need-based student aid program for Alabama residents attending post-secondary educational institutions in Alabama. Who may apply? Undergraduate students who are Alabama residents attending eligible Alabama institutions. [...] More
Alabama Student Grant Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Alabama Student Grant Program is an award of grant assistance at an eligible independent Alabama college or university and is not based on need. Up to $1200 per academic year with maximum amount available only when sufficient funds are available. Who may apply? Undergraduate students--both half-time and full-time--who are Alabama residents attending Birmingham-Southern College, Concordia [...] More
American Red Cross BloodStock Scholarship Challenge
Application Deadlines: Varies
You can help save lives and win money for college through the American Red Cross BloodStock Scholarship* Challenge! Participating in the BloodStock Scholarship Challenge is exciting! We'll help you develop your event planning, marketing and recruitment skills, while you help the American Red Cross collect much needed blood components during the summer and winter months. If you host a new [...] More
EMU National Scholars Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The EMU National Scholars Program is a four-year award that pays 30 credit hours per year (15 per semester) of out-of-state tuition differential. Must be a new freshmen or new transfer student with a minimum 3.50 GPA and a resident of a state other than Michigan or Ohio to be considered. Freshmen recipients must live in university housing the first two years of this award. For more information [...] More
JSU Alabama Alabama Power Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Alabama Power Scholarship is open to Alabama residents who plan to attend Jacksonville State University. Applicant must major in business related area. Visit the web site for an application and further information. For a complete list of available JSU Alabama Scholarships, go [...] More
JSU Alabama Bush Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Bush Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Newbern Bush, a retired faculty member who taught Mathematics. The Scholarship is to be awarded to a full-time native-born Alabama student who has attained Junior status and is majoring in Mathematics. For more information about this award, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Faculty Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Faculty Scholarship is open to Alabama residents planning to attend Jacksonville State University. The amount of the award will be contingent upon ACT Score and/or SAT score, along with GPA: -75% Tuition with ACT 28 or SAT 1260-1330 and 3.0 GPA -100% Tuition with ACT 30 or SAT 1340-1370 and 3.0 GPA -100% Tuition and Housing with ACT 32 or SAT 1390 and 3.5 GPA For a complete [...] More
JSU Alabama Governor Frank Dixon Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Governor Frank Dixon Memorial Scholarship is for Alabama residents only. For more information about this scholarship, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Major John Pelham Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Major John Pelham Memorial Scholarship varies. Applicant must be a History major in their junior or senior year of college at JSU; Preference will be given to Calhoun County residents. For more information about this award, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Shamblin Family Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Shamblin Family Scholarship was established through a bequest of Mr. Harold C. Shamblin of Gadsden, Alabama, for the benefit of deserving students. For more information, please visit: [...] More
Tall Clubs International Student Scholarships
Application Deadlines: Varies
Annually, at the Tall Clubs International Convention, TCI awards student scholarships of up to $1,000 each to tall students who are under 21 years of age and attending their first year of college in the following fall. The recipients must also meet the TCI height requirement minimums of 5'10" for women and 6'2" for men. If you are interested in applying for a TCI Scholarship Award, please read [...] More
The Heidelberg College Out Of State Grant
Application Deadlines: Varies
In order to qualify for the Heidelberg College Out Of State Grant, the applicant must be resident of a state other than Ohio and attend Heidelberg College. This grant is renewable for four years as long as the student is making satisfactory academic progress. For more information, please visit http://www.heidelberg.edu/financialaid/futurestudent/scholarships [...] More
AQHF Swayze Woodruff Memorial Mid-South Scholarship
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
Scholarship assistance will be awarded to a member of the American Quarter Horse Association or American Quarter Horse Youth Association competing in AQHA or AQHYA-approved shows. Applicants must be a resident of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi or Tennessee to qualify. Scholarships will be awarded based on financial need, academic merit and American Quarter Horse involvement. Recipient [...] More
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) for Young Professionals is a full-year work-study fellowship program with a strong focus on cultural exchange. CBYX annually provides 75 young Americans with an understanding of everyday life, education, and professional training in Germany. The program begins in July and includes two months of intensive German language training in Germany (no prior [...] More
U of A Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
Due to the generosity of The Coca-Cola Foundation, Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarships will be awarded to twelve incoming freshmen that are first generation college students. Any student whose parents or siblings are not attending nor hold a degree from a college is considered a first generation college student. In addition to this requirement, applicants must be Alabama residents, have a [...] More
ARRL Charles Clarke Cordle Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 01, Annually
The ARRL Charles Clarke Cordle Memorial Scholarship is for Amateur Radio Operators. This is a $1,000 scholarship for students who meet the following criteria: License Requirement: Any active Amateur Radio License Class Regional Preference: Resident of Georgia or Alabama Curricular Preference: GPA of 2.5 or higher; preference to students of electronics, communications or related [...] More
NAJA Graduate Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: February 01, Annually
The National Association of Junior Auxiliaries, Inc. (NAJA) was established in 1941 with the purpose of uniting members "to render charitable services which are beneficial to the general public, with particular emphasis on children, and to cooperate with other organizations performing similar services." Today, the growing Association continues the focus of meeting the needs of children and youth [...] More
AWS Airgas Terry Jarvis Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 15, Annually
The Airgas - Terry Jarvis Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student pursuing a minimum four-year bachelors degree in welding engineering (WE) or welding engineering technology (WET); however, priority will be given to welding engineering (WE) students interested in pursuing a career with an industrial gas or welding equipment distributor. All applicants must meet the [...] More
AWS Airgas-Jerry Baker Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 15, Annually
The Airgas Jerry Baker Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student pursuing a minimum four-year bachelors degree in welding engineering (WE) or welding engineering technology (WET); however, priority will be given to welding engineering (WE) students interested in pursuing a career with an industrial gas or welding equipment distributor. All applicants must meet the following [...] More
American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
A grant award to be used for tuition, fees and board expenses to attend a public postsecondary educational in Alabama. Awards are restricted to students who attend institutions having on-campus housing. Awards are given to sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters of veterans of World War I, World War II, Korea, or Vietnam and who are residents of Alabama. NOTE: Application and other [...] More
Dixie Youth Baseball Scholarship
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
From the very beginning, the leaders of Dixie Youth Baseball knew they wanted to develop a college scholarship program that would help former players obtain a college education. There wasn't much money in the beginning. The first eligible players graduated in 1961, one $500 scholarship and one $250 scholarship were awarded. And from its modest beginning, the scholarship program has grown to an [...] More
Horace Mann Educator Scholarship
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
The Horace Mann Educators Corporation awards annual scholarships totaling $30,000 to kindergarten through 12th grade teachers, librarians or teacher's aides of any discipline. Scholarships include one $5,000 scholarship payable over four years, 16 $1,000 scholarships payable over two years, and 18 one-time $500 scholarships. Scholarships are awarded based on an educator’s school and community [...] More
Alabama Scholarships for Dependents of Blind Parents
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
Alabama Scholarship for Dependents of Blind Parents is an award to cover instructional fees and tuition at an Alabama state institution of higher learning for children of families in which the head of the family is blind and whose family income is insufficient to provide educational benefits. Students must apply within two years of high school graduation. Applications are available from the [...] More
Dixie Boys Baseball Scholarship
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
Outstanding high school seniors who have participated in a franchised Dixie Boys Baseball, Incorporated program and plan to pursue undergraduate studies at a college or university may apply for the Bernie Varnadore Scholarship Program. Dixie Boys Baseball, Incorporated programs include Dixie Boys Baseball for boys 13 and 14 years old; Dixie Pre-Majors Baseball for boys 15 and 16 years old; and [...] More
Senior Adult Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
This program provides free tuition for senior citizens (persons aged 60 and over) who meet the admission requirements and attend public two-year postsecondary institutions in Alabama. Contact the financial aid office at any public two-year postsecondary educational institution in [...] More
Legacy Environmental Scholarship
Application Deadlines: May 06, Annually
Legacy, Inc., Partners in Environmental Education, is a not-for-profit organization working to create environmentally responsible citizens through balanced, fact-based education that considers diverse environmental views. The organization operates through a grassroots partnership network to develop and disseminate balanced environmental information. Legacy's Scholarship Program provides [...] More
ESA Marsh Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: May 15, Annually
The Marsh Scholarship Fund, the largest and longest running scholarship program in the U.S. surfing community, annually awards approximately $8,000.00 in financial aid to ESA surfers. The Marsh Scholarship Program began when it was instituted in 1981 by former ESA Executive Director Dr. Colin J. Couture to recognize and honor the accomplishments of the Marsh Family of North Carolina and young [...] More
ASTA Southeast Chapter Professional Development Scholarship
Application Deadlines: July 01, Annually
Tourism Cares will award ASTA Southeast Chapter Professional Development Scholarships to be applied to the cost of an ASTA or The Travel Institute Educational Program, or the registration fee only for the ASTA International Destination Expo. To be eligible, applicants must be permanent U.S. residents, with a minimum of two years of experience in the travel industry, who have successfully [...] More
Aileen Lee Scholarship
Application Deadlines: August 27, Annually
Aileen Lee Scholarships are awarded to incoming freshmen at the University of Oregon each academic year in recognition of students who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence throughout their high school career in leadership, service and academic excellence. Criteria: Applicants must be out-of-state students beginning their first year at the UO Selection: Three men and three [...] More
$450,000 worth of scholarships are available to seniors graduating from Alabama high schools who have had a parent disabled or killed while on the job. Awards of $500 to $3000 are given to students planning to enter college or technical schools. Applying for financial aid from the anticipated school is a requirement along with a transcript, proof of parental disability or death, and the previous year's income tax return. Applications are accepted online.
Kids Chance Scholarship Committee
Alabama Law Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 671
Montgomery, AL 36101
334-269-1515
alfinc.org
Buster Bynum Scholarship
The Buster Bynum Education Scholarship offers two $1000 scholarships to public school seniors who have parents working in public school transportation. Parents' gross household income over the past five years must be less than $75,000, and at least one parent must have been an employee involved in public school transportation for the past five years. Students must submit an official transcript, a statement from a school official verifying intent to attend college, a support letter from a teacher stating why this student deserves this scholarship, and a letter from the parent's employer verifying employment and income. Requirements are a grade point average of 3.0, leadership skills, community involvement, good citizenship and a 500-word essay on how the funds will be used. Students should print applications online and submit them along with supporting documents to the Director of Transportation of their school district.
Southeastern States Pupil Transportation Conference (SESPTC)
oaptonline.org
American Legion Alabama
An $850 scholarship is available from the American Legion Department of Alabama to a high school senior who is a legal Alabama resident. Eligibility is open to children and grandchildren of veterans who served during wartime. Students must submit a small picture, an unofficial transcript, two letters of reference and ACT/SAT scores. Applications can be printed online and then submitted by mail.
American Legion Scholarship
P.O. Box 1069
Montgomery, AL 36101
americanlegionalabama.org
Lola B Curry
The Scholarships of the United Daughters of the Confederacy have different requirements; some have restrictions and some don't. Some of the scholarships are dedicated to certain areas of study and some are geographically based. The Lola B Curry scholarship is restricted to an Alabama resident and student.
To be considered for this scholarship, the applicant must submit the original and four copies of the General Scholarship Packet, the official grade transcript and letters of recommendation.
One copy each of the photograph, (head and shoulders), the checklist and the Confederate ancestor's proof of service.
An applicant must be the lineal descendant of an eligible Confederate and have a 3.0 GPA in high school. Applicants must be endorsed by the President and the Second Vice President/Education Chairman of Chapter and Division and by the Second Vice President General.
For more information on this scholarship and to access the application, see their website.
Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP)
This is a state program that offers grants of approximately $360 per year to full-time undergraduate students who are legal residents of Alabama who are attending approved independent colleges or universities within the state of Alabama. Part-time recipients who are enrolled for at least 6 semester hours will receive a grant of approximately $180 per year. This grant is not based on need but rather on residency.
Students planning to enter a Church-based vocation are not eligible for the grant although there is a permissible limit for religious studies. One course in religious studies or Christian music is allowed per semester whether the student is part-time or full-time.
Applications for the Alabama Student Grant Program can be obtained and filed with the Office of Student Financial Aid. Grants shall be renewable annually.
Visit http://www.ache.state.al.us/StudentAsst/Programs.htm for other scholarship opportunities.
ACHE Junior & Community College Performing Arts Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
An award not to exceed in-state tuition only for attendance at public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Awards are based on demonstrated talent determined through competitive auditions. Awards are not based on financial needs. This award is for full-time students attending public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Contact the financial aid office at any public junior or [...] More
ACHE Police Officers and Firefighters Survivors Educational Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The ACHE Police Officers and Firefighters Survivors Educational Assistance Program is a grant covering tuition, fees, books and supplies for dependents and eligible spouses of Alabama police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. There is no limit on the amount awarded to recipients. Awards are available for undergraduate study in public institutions in Alabama. Students who are [...] More
Alabama Commission on Higher Education/Student Grant Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
Alabama residents enrolled in independent, nonprofit Alabama colleges and universities receive financial assistanct through the Alabama Student Grant Program. This program helps bridge the differential between public and private institutions, and helps provide Alabama students an opportunity to take programs and courses at private institutions. Individual grant payments to student are [...] More
Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program - A state program designed to provide financial assistance to Alabama National Guard members who are residents of the state of Alabama for undergraduate and graduate education at accredited post secondary institutions of higher learning located within the state of Alabama. The student may receive an award equal to tuition, fees, books, and [...] More
Alabama Student Assistance Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Alabama Student Assistance Program is a state-supported and federally-funded grant program which is designed to assist financially-needy students. It is the state's only need-based student aid program for Alabama residents attending post-secondary educational institutions in Alabama. Who may apply? Undergraduate students who are Alabama residents attending eligible Alabama institutions. [...] More
Alabama Student Grant Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Alabama Student Grant Program is an award of grant assistance at an eligible independent Alabama college or university and is not based on need. Up to $1200 per academic year with maximum amount available only when sufficient funds are available. Who may apply? Undergraduate students--both half-time and full-time--who are Alabama residents attending Birmingham-Southern College, Concordia [...] More
American Red Cross BloodStock Scholarship Challenge
Application Deadlines: Varies
You can help save lives and win money for college through the American Red Cross BloodStock Scholarship* Challenge! Participating in the BloodStock Scholarship Challenge is exciting! We'll help you develop your event planning, marketing and recruitment skills, while you help the American Red Cross collect much needed blood components during the summer and winter months. If you host a new [...] More
EMU National Scholars Program
Application Deadlines: Varies
The EMU National Scholars Program is a four-year award that pays 30 credit hours per year (15 per semester) of out-of-state tuition differential. Must be a new freshmen or new transfer student with a minimum 3.50 GPA and a resident of a state other than Michigan or Ohio to be considered. Freshmen recipients must live in university housing the first two years of this award. For more information [...] More
JSU Alabama Alabama Power Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Alabama Power Scholarship is open to Alabama residents who plan to attend Jacksonville State University. Applicant must major in business related area. Visit the web site for an application and further information. For a complete list of available JSU Alabama Scholarships, go [...] More
JSU Alabama Bush Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Bush Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Newbern Bush, a retired faculty member who taught Mathematics. The Scholarship is to be awarded to a full-time native-born Alabama student who has attained Junior status and is majoring in Mathematics. For more information about this award, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Faculty Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Faculty Scholarship is open to Alabama residents planning to attend Jacksonville State University. The amount of the award will be contingent upon ACT Score and/or SAT score, along with GPA: -75% Tuition with ACT 28 or SAT 1260-1330 and 3.0 GPA -100% Tuition with ACT 30 or SAT 1340-1370 and 3.0 GPA -100% Tuition and Housing with ACT 32 or SAT 1390 and 3.5 GPA For a complete [...] More
JSU Alabama Governor Frank Dixon Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The JSU Alabama Governor Frank Dixon Memorial Scholarship is for Alabama residents only. For more information about this scholarship, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Major John Pelham Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Major John Pelham Memorial Scholarship varies. Applicant must be a History major in their junior or senior year of college at JSU; Preference will be given to Calhoun County residents. For more information about this award, please [...] More
JSU Alabama Shamblin Family Scholarship
Application Deadlines: Varies
The Shamblin Family Scholarship was established through a bequest of Mr. Harold C. Shamblin of Gadsden, Alabama, for the benefit of deserving students. For more information, please visit: [...] More
Tall Clubs International Student Scholarships
Application Deadlines: Varies
Annually, at the Tall Clubs International Convention, TCI awards student scholarships of up to $1,000 each to tall students who are under 21 years of age and attending their first year of college in the following fall. The recipients must also meet the TCI height requirement minimums of 5'10" for women and 6'2" for men. If you are interested in applying for a TCI Scholarship Award, please read [...] More
The Heidelberg College Out Of State Grant
Application Deadlines: Varies
In order to qualify for the Heidelberg College Out Of State Grant, the applicant must be resident of a state other than Ohio and attend Heidelberg College. This grant is renewable for four years as long as the student is making satisfactory academic progress. For more information, please visit http://www.heidelberg.edu/financialaid/futurestudent/scholarships [...] More
AQHF Swayze Woodruff Memorial Mid-South Scholarship
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
Scholarship assistance will be awarded to a member of the American Quarter Horse Association or American Quarter Horse Youth Association competing in AQHA or AQHYA-approved shows. Applicants must be a resident of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi or Tennessee to qualify. Scholarships will be awarded based on financial need, academic merit and American Quarter Horse involvement. Recipient [...] More
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) for Young Professionals is a full-year work-study fellowship program with a strong focus on cultural exchange. CBYX annually provides 75 young Americans with an understanding of everyday life, education, and professional training in Germany. The program begins in July and includes two months of intensive German language training in Germany (no prior [...] More
U of A Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola First-Generation Scholarship
Application Deadlines: December 01, Annually
Due to the generosity of The Coca-Cola Foundation, Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarships will be awarded to twelve incoming freshmen that are first generation college students. Any student whose parents or siblings are not attending nor hold a degree from a college is considered a first generation college student. In addition to this requirement, applicants must be Alabama residents, have a [...] More
ARRL Charles Clarke Cordle Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 01, Annually
The ARRL Charles Clarke Cordle Memorial Scholarship is for Amateur Radio Operators. This is a $1,000 scholarship for students who meet the following criteria: License Requirement: Any active Amateur Radio License Class Regional Preference: Resident of Georgia or Alabama Curricular Preference: GPA of 2.5 or higher; preference to students of electronics, communications or related [...] More
NAJA Graduate Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: February 01, Annually
The National Association of Junior Auxiliaries, Inc. (NAJA) was established in 1941 with the purpose of uniting members "to render charitable services which are beneficial to the general public, with particular emphasis on children, and to cooperate with other organizations performing similar services." Today, the growing Association continues the focus of meeting the needs of children and youth [...] More
AWS Airgas Terry Jarvis Memorial Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 15, Annually
The Airgas - Terry Jarvis Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student pursuing a minimum four-year bachelors degree in welding engineering (WE) or welding engineering technology (WET); however, priority will be given to welding engineering (WE) students interested in pursuing a career with an industrial gas or welding equipment distributor. All applicants must meet the [...] More
AWS Airgas-Jerry Baker Scholarship
Application Deadlines: February 15, Annually
The Airgas Jerry Baker Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student pursuing a minimum four-year bachelors degree in welding engineering (WE) or welding engineering technology (WET); however, priority will be given to welding engineering (WE) students interested in pursuing a career with an industrial gas or welding equipment distributor. All applicants must meet the following [...] More
American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
A grant award to be used for tuition, fees and board expenses to attend a public postsecondary educational in Alabama. Awards are restricted to students who attend institutions having on-campus housing. Awards are given to sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters of veterans of World War I, World War II, Korea, or Vietnam and who are residents of Alabama. NOTE: Application and other [...] More
Dixie Youth Baseball Scholarship
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
From the very beginning, the leaders of Dixie Youth Baseball knew they wanted to develop a college scholarship program that would help former players obtain a college education. There wasn't much money in the beginning. The first eligible players graduated in 1961, one $500 scholarship and one $250 scholarship were awarded. And from its modest beginning, the scholarship program has grown to an [...] More
Horace Mann Educator Scholarship
Application Deadlines: March 01, Annually
The Horace Mann Educators Corporation awards annual scholarships totaling $30,000 to kindergarten through 12th grade teachers, librarians or teacher's aides of any discipline. Scholarships include one $5,000 scholarship payable over four years, 16 $1,000 scholarships payable over two years, and 18 one-time $500 scholarships. Scholarships are awarded based on an educator’s school and community [...] More
Alabama Scholarships for Dependents of Blind Parents
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
Alabama Scholarship for Dependents of Blind Parents is an award to cover instructional fees and tuition at an Alabama state institution of higher learning for children of families in which the head of the family is blind and whose family income is insufficient to provide educational benefits. Students must apply within two years of high school graduation. Applications are available from the [...] More
Dixie Boys Baseball Scholarship
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
Outstanding high school seniors who have participated in a franchised Dixie Boys Baseball, Incorporated program and plan to pursue undergraduate studies at a college or university may apply for the Bernie Varnadore Scholarship Program. Dixie Boys Baseball, Incorporated programs include Dixie Boys Baseball for boys 13 and 14 years old; Dixie Pre-Majors Baseball for boys 15 and 16 years old; and [...] More
Senior Adult Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: April 01, Annually
This program provides free tuition for senior citizens (persons aged 60 and over) who meet the admission requirements and attend public two-year postsecondary institutions in Alabama. Contact the financial aid office at any public two-year postsecondary educational institution in [...] More
Legacy Environmental Scholarship
Application Deadlines: May 06, Annually
Legacy, Inc., Partners in Environmental Education, is a not-for-profit organization working to create environmentally responsible citizens through balanced, fact-based education that considers diverse environmental views. The organization operates through a grassroots partnership network to develop and disseminate balanced environmental information. Legacy's Scholarship Program provides [...] More
ESA Marsh Scholarship Program
Application Deadlines: May 15, Annually
The Marsh Scholarship Fund, the largest and longest running scholarship program in the U.S. surfing community, annually awards approximately $8,000.00 in financial aid to ESA surfers. The Marsh Scholarship Program began when it was instituted in 1981 by former ESA Executive Director Dr. Colin J. Couture to recognize and honor the accomplishments of the Marsh Family of North Carolina and young [...] More
ASTA Southeast Chapter Professional Development Scholarship
Application Deadlines: July 01, Annually
Tourism Cares will award ASTA Southeast Chapter Professional Development Scholarships to be applied to the cost of an ASTA or The Travel Institute Educational Program, or the registration fee only for the ASTA International Destination Expo. To be eligible, applicants must be permanent U.S. residents, with a minimum of two years of experience in the travel industry, who have successfully [...] More
Aileen Lee Scholarship
Application Deadlines: August 27, Annually
Aileen Lee Scholarships are awarded to incoming freshmen at the University of Oregon each academic year in recognition of students who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence throughout their high school career in leadership, service and academic excellence. Criteria: Applicants must be out-of-state students beginning their first year at the UO Selection: Three men and three [...] More
NFIB Young Entrepreneur Award
Young entrepreneurs who are graduating high school seniors are eligible to receive a 2012 NFIB Young Entrepreneur Award from the NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation. Qualified candidates must be operating a small business. Visit www.NFIB.com/YEA for more information and apply online for the 2012 NFIB Young Entrepreneur Awards.
ATV'S AND KIDS DON'T MIX!
Many families these days own or have access to an all terrain vehicle, or ATV. Also called a four-wheeler, these utility vehicles can be an asset on a farm or in managing hunting land. However, ATV injuries, especially among children, are on the rise. In fact, Children’s of Alabama has treated 34 children for life-threatening injuries received while riding ATVs this year, and there has been a 200 percent increase in ATV accidents in Alabama within the last 10 years. Tragically, these accidents might have been prevented had the adults providing supervision made sure that these basic safety tips were being followed:
• First and foremost, children younger than the age of 16 should never operate an ATV. Young children are not physically able to handle a motorized vehicle and lack the necessary strength and driving skills for safe handling.
• Carefully consider whether or not your teenager over the age of 16 possesses the strength and skills needed for driving and operating an ATV.
• All riders who are over the age of 16, should still be supervised by an adult at all times when operating an ATV.
• Set limits for your teenager as to where and how fast the ATV can be driven. Drivers should be familiar with the terrain and travel only on existing trails. Speed should be reduced when visibility or terrain conditions are poor.
• ATV drivers over the age of 16 should complete a special training course to learn proper operating techniques, including how to start the vehicle, how to shift gears, how to retain balance while riding, how to maneuver the
vehicle—and how to stop safely. ATV dealers can offer information on about safety courses.
• Protective gear, including a helmet, boots, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt should always be worn.
• No passengers. Most ATVs are not built to carry passengers and become very unstable with more than one rider.
"The bottom line is that ATV’s are simply not safe for children under the age of 16," says Dr. Kathy Monroe, pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children’s of Alabama. "As a parent, that’s tough- but tough love is certainly better than a critical injury."
For more information, visit our website at www.childrensal.org
• First and foremost, children younger than the age of 16 should never operate an ATV. Young children are not physically able to handle a motorized vehicle and lack the necessary strength and driving skills for safe handling.
• Carefully consider whether or not your teenager over the age of 16 possesses the strength and skills needed for driving and operating an ATV.
• All riders who are over the age of 16, should still be supervised by an adult at all times when operating an ATV.
• Set limits for your teenager as to where and how fast the ATV can be driven. Drivers should be familiar with the terrain and travel only on existing trails. Speed should be reduced when visibility or terrain conditions are poor.
• ATV drivers over the age of 16 should complete a special training course to learn proper operating techniques, including how to start the vehicle, how to shift gears, how to retain balance while riding, how to maneuver the
vehicle—and how to stop safely. ATV dealers can offer information on about safety courses.
• Protective gear, including a helmet, boots, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt should always be worn.
• No passengers. Most ATVs are not built to carry passengers and become very unstable with more than one rider.
"The bottom line is that ATV’s are simply not safe for children under the age of 16," says Dr. Kathy Monroe, pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children’s of Alabama. "As a parent, that’s tough- but tough love is certainly better than a critical injury."
For more information, visit our website at www.childrensal.org
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Ways You Can Give During the Holidays
The Clanton Advertiser had an article in the Clanton Advertiser on Nov. 17 about ways you can help this holiday season in our community.
Help the youth at Rocky Mount United Methodist Church raise money for a local family by buying a raffle ticket ($2 each) on a handmade quilt. The raffle drawing is Dec. 18. The phone number of the church is (205)688-2204.
The Chilton County Fraternal Order of Police, Smith-Dale Lodge 31 is accepting donations for its Operation: Santa Claus. Checks may be sent to Operation:Santa Claus, P.O. Box 2332, Clanton, AL 35045 by Dec. 1. Gifts may also be donated. Contact John Shearon (205)755-6261 or Erric Price (205) 755-4698 for more information.
Donations may be given to the town of Maplesville for their Toys for Kids program. The address is City of Maplesville - Toys for Kids, P.O. Box 9, Maplesville, AL. Contact information: Mayor Aubrey Latham, Police Chief Todd Ingram, or Town Clerk Sheila Haigler at (334)366-4211.
To participate in Operation Christmas Child which is sponsored by Samaritan's Purse, bring shoeboxes filled with small toys and gifts to The Church at Bethel, 10042 Collins Chapel Rd, Thorsby. Their number is (205) 857-2424. $7 per box is also needed for shipping and handling. The Chilton County Baptist Association may be contacted at 755-3188 for designated drop-off hours. Visit samaritanspurse.org for more information.
Stockings for Soldiers is a program to spread cheer to our troops. Donations may be dropped off at Clanton First United Methodist Church by Nov. 21 or mailed by Nov. 28. The contact person is Stephanie Gibson at 755-8270.
Many groups are collecting non-perishable food items to distribute. One place to donate is the Clanton branch of OneMain Financial by Nov. 30. It is located at 1217 Seventh St. S., Clanton. Their number is 755-1996.
Chilton County Department of Human Resources is collecting sponsorships and donations to provide Christmas gifts for 134 foster children. To sponsor a child, contact Marilyn Colson at 280-2000 or marilyn.colson@dhr.alabama.gov. Monetary donations of checks should be made to Chilton DHR Foster Children's Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 1699, 500 Airport Rd, Clanton 35046.
Help the youth at Rocky Mount United Methodist Church raise money for a local family by buying a raffle ticket ($2 each) on a handmade quilt. The raffle drawing is Dec. 18. The phone number of the church is (205)688-2204.
The Chilton County Fraternal Order of Police, Smith-Dale Lodge 31 is accepting donations for its Operation: Santa Claus. Checks may be sent to Operation:Santa Claus, P.O. Box 2332, Clanton, AL 35045 by Dec. 1. Gifts may also be donated. Contact John Shearon (205)755-6261 or Erric Price (205) 755-4698 for more information.
Donations may be given to the town of Maplesville for their Toys for Kids program. The address is City of Maplesville - Toys for Kids, P.O. Box 9, Maplesville, AL. Contact information: Mayor Aubrey Latham, Police Chief Todd Ingram, or Town Clerk Sheila Haigler at (334)366-4211.
To participate in Operation Christmas Child which is sponsored by Samaritan's Purse, bring shoeboxes filled with small toys and gifts to The Church at Bethel, 10042 Collins Chapel Rd, Thorsby. Their number is (205) 857-2424. $7 per box is also needed for shipping and handling. The Chilton County Baptist Association may be contacted at 755-3188 for designated drop-off hours. Visit samaritanspurse.org for more information.
Stockings for Soldiers is a program to spread cheer to our troops. Donations may be dropped off at Clanton First United Methodist Church by Nov. 21 or mailed by Nov. 28. The contact person is Stephanie Gibson at 755-8270.
Many groups are collecting non-perishable food items to distribute. One place to donate is the Clanton branch of OneMain Financial by Nov. 30. It is located at 1217 Seventh St. S., Clanton. Their number is 755-1996.
Chilton County Department of Human Resources is collecting sponsorships and donations to provide Christmas gifts for 134 foster children. To sponsor a child, contact Marilyn Colson at 280-2000 or marilyn.colson@dhr.alabama.gov. Monetary donations of checks should be made to Chilton DHR Foster Children's Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 1699, 500 Airport Rd, Clanton 35046.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Jeff State Spring Class Schedule
The spring class schedule at Jeff State is available at www.jeffstateonline.com/register. Register now! Credit classes begin on January 6th, 2012. The phone number is (205) 856-7704.
Burger King Scholars Program
Win a $50,000, $25,000, $5,000, or $1,000 scholarship! High school seniors, BURGER KING employees and children of BURGER KING employees are eligible to apply. Visit: http//www.haveityourwayfoundation.org/bksp_scholarship_eligibility.html. Application period is Nov. 15, 2011 - Jan. 10, 2012.
Monday, November 7, 2011
ACT Late Registration Deadline
If you missed the Nov. 4th deadline for the December 10th administration of the ACT, you may still make the late registration deadline which is Nov. 18. There is an additional late fee of $21 in addition to the regular $34 for the No Writing ACT. If you are a senior and need an ACT score, it is very important to meet this deadline. Most college and scholarship applications require an ACT score. DO IT NOW!
Jeff State Dual or Accelerated Enrollment Program
Students may get college credit while in high school through two different programs at Jefferson State Community College: Dual Enrollment and the Accelerated High School program. To be eligible for the Accelerated High School program, students must meet the following criteria:
1. Student must have successfully completed the 10th grade.
2. Student must complete Jefferson State's Accelerated High School form, including signatures from the principal and counselor. A copy of the student's driver's license is also required at the Clanton Campus Admissions Office.
3. The student must have a minimum cumulative "B" average and be recommended for admission to the Accelerated Program by the high school counselor and principal.
Jefferson State's spring schedule is published on their website (www.jeffstateonline.com). Advisors are on-hand to help with any questions you may have. You may contact Don Hand at (205)389-5934 or Julie Emmerich at (205)280-8200.
1. Student must have successfully completed the 10th grade.
2. Student must complete Jefferson State's Accelerated High School form, including signatures from the principal and counselor. A copy of the student's driver's license is also required at the Clanton Campus Admissions Office.
3. The student must have a minimum cumulative "B" average and be recommended for admission to the Accelerated Program by the high school counselor and principal.
Jefferson State's spring schedule is published on their website (www.jeffstateonline.com). Advisors are on-hand to help with any questions you may have. You may contact Don Hand at (205)389-5934 or Julie Emmerich at (205)280-8200.
CANS for CAPS
The VHS Beta Club is sponsoring Cans for Caps Day on Friday, November 18. Bring a canned good or non-perishable food item and you will be able to wear a cap or hat all day! The Beta Club is collecting food during the month of November for the Chilton County Emergency Management Assistance Agency.
Auburn College of Engineering E-Day
Auburn University Samuel Ginn College of Engineering will observe E-Day on February 24, 2012. If any students are interested in learning more about Auburn's engineering programs, you may go to the website http://www.eng.auburn.edu or see me.
Monday, October 17, 2011
FALL DANCE
The Fall Dance is on October 21 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The Fall Dance is only for students from Verbena High School, grades 7-12. School dress code rules will be in effect. Tickets are $5.00 in advance beginning Tuesday, Oct. 18 until the day of the dance. Tickets will be $7.00 the night of the dance. The profits are going to help needy students and help with purchasing classroom supplies.
TRICKS FOR A SAFE HALLOWEEN
From the candy to the costumes, Halloween is a fun-filled time for kids and parents alike. But it can pose dangers to young revelers. To help make this year's festivity a trick-free treat, Children's of Alabama Child Safety Expert, Julie Farmer, offers these simple safety tips:
Adorning Your Little Ghouls
Choose a light-colored costume or add glow-in-the-dark tape to the front and back of the costume so your kids can be easily seen.
Don't buy a costume unless it's labeled "flame-retardant." This means the material won't burn.
Make sure wigs and beards don't cover your kids' eyes, noses, or mouths.
Don't let your children wear masks — they can make it difficult for kids to see and breathe. Instead, use nontoxic face paint or makeup. Have younger children draw pictures of what they want to look like. Older kids will have fun putting the makeup on themselves.
Put a name tag — with your phone number — on your children's costumes.
Avoid oversized and high-heeled shoes that could cause kids to trip.
Avoid long or baggy skirts, pants, or shirtsleeves that could catch on something and cause falls.
Make sure that any props your kids carry, such as wands or swords, are flexible.
Trouble-Free Trick-or-Treating
Accompany young children (under age 10) on their rounds. But make sure they know their home phone number, the cell phone numbers of parents and any other trusted adult who's supervising, and how to call 911 in case they get lost.
For older kids who are trick-or-treating on their own, make sure
you approve of the route they'll be taking and know when they'll
be coming home. Also be sure that they:
*carry a cell phone, if possible
*go in a group and stay together
*only go to houses with porch lights on and walk on sidewalks on lit streets (never walk through alleys or across lawns)
*know to never go into strangers' homes or cars
*cross the street at crosswalks and never assume that
vehicles will stop
Give kids flashlights with new batteries.
Limit trick-or-treating to your neighborhood and the homes of
people you and your children know.
When your kids get home, check all treats to make sure they're safely sealed and there are no signs of tampering, such as small pinholes, loose or torn packages, and packages that appear to have been taped or glued back together. Throw out loose candy, spoiled items, and any homemade treats that haven't been made by someone you know.
Don't allow young children to have hard candy or gum that could cause choking.
Make sure trick-or-treaters will be safe when visiting your
home, too. Remove lawn decorations, sprinklers, toys, bicycles,
wet leaves, or anything that might obstruct your walkway.
Provide a well-lit outside entrance to your home. Keep family
pets away from trick-or-treaters, even if they seem harmless to
you.
Gobbling Down Halloween Goodies
Offer a filling meal before your kids head out to trick-or-treat so they won't scarf down too much of their haul.
Consider purchasing Halloween treats other than candy. Stickers,
erasers, crayons, pencils, coloring books, and sealed packages
of raisins and dried fruits are good choices.
Know how much candy your kids have collected and store it
somewhere other than their bedrooms. Having it so handy can be
an irresistible temptation for many kids. Consider being
somewhat lenient about candy eating on Halloween, within reason,
and talk about how the rest of the candy will be handled. Kids
who generally eat just a couple of pieces and save the rest
might be trusted to decide how much to eat. But if your child
tends to overdo it, consider setting limits.
Once your trick-or-treaters have returned with their Halloween goodies, extend their bounty by letting them have a treat or two a day instead of leaving candy out in big bags or bowls for kids to sample at will.
Take these quick and easy precautions to help your little ghosts and goblins have a hauntingly happy and safe Halloween.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit our web site at www.childrensal.org
Adorning Your Little Ghouls
Choose a light-colored costume or add glow-in-the-dark tape to the front and back of the costume so your kids can be easily seen.
Don't buy a costume unless it's labeled "flame-retardant." This means the material won't burn.
Make sure wigs and beards don't cover your kids' eyes, noses, or mouths.
Don't let your children wear masks — they can make it difficult for kids to see and breathe. Instead, use nontoxic face paint or makeup. Have younger children draw pictures of what they want to look like. Older kids will have fun putting the makeup on themselves.
Put a name tag — with your phone number — on your children's costumes.
Avoid oversized and high-heeled shoes that could cause kids to trip.
Avoid long or baggy skirts, pants, or shirtsleeves that could catch on something and cause falls.
Make sure that any props your kids carry, such as wands or swords, are flexible.
Trouble-Free Trick-or-Treating
Accompany young children (under age 10) on their rounds. But make sure they know their home phone number, the cell phone numbers of parents and any other trusted adult who's supervising, and how to call 911 in case they get lost.
For older kids who are trick-or-treating on their own, make sure
you approve of the route they'll be taking and know when they'll
be coming home. Also be sure that they:
*carry a cell phone, if possible
*go in a group and stay together
*only go to houses with porch lights on and walk on sidewalks on lit streets (never walk through alleys or across lawns)
*know to never go into strangers' homes or cars
*cross the street at crosswalks and never assume that
vehicles will stop
Give kids flashlights with new batteries.
Limit trick-or-treating to your neighborhood and the homes of
people you and your children know.
When your kids get home, check all treats to make sure they're safely sealed and there are no signs of tampering, such as small pinholes, loose or torn packages, and packages that appear to have been taped or glued back together. Throw out loose candy, spoiled items, and any homemade treats that haven't been made by someone you know.
Don't allow young children to have hard candy or gum that could cause choking.
Make sure trick-or-treaters will be safe when visiting your
home, too. Remove lawn decorations, sprinklers, toys, bicycles,
wet leaves, or anything that might obstruct your walkway.
Provide a well-lit outside entrance to your home. Keep family
pets away from trick-or-treaters, even if they seem harmless to
you.
Gobbling Down Halloween Goodies
Offer a filling meal before your kids head out to trick-or-treat so they won't scarf down too much of their haul.
Consider purchasing Halloween treats other than candy. Stickers,
erasers, crayons, pencils, coloring books, and sealed packages
of raisins and dried fruits are good choices.
Know how much candy your kids have collected and store it
somewhere other than their bedrooms. Having it so handy can be
an irresistible temptation for many kids. Consider being
somewhat lenient about candy eating on Halloween, within reason,
and talk about how the rest of the candy will be handled. Kids
who generally eat just a couple of pieces and save the rest
might be trusted to decide how much to eat. But if your child
tends to overdo it, consider setting limits.
Once your trick-or-treaters have returned with their Halloween goodies, extend their bounty by letting them have a treat or two a day instead of leaving candy out in big bags or bowls for kids to sample at will.
Take these quick and easy precautions to help your little ghosts and goblins have a hauntingly happy and safe Halloween.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety issues, visit our web site at www.childrensal.org
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Stillman College - Free Football Game!
Stillman College is having a registration day on October 15, 2011, which includes admissions info, financial aid/scholarship information, a campus tour, divisional information, question and answer session, band and choir auditions, free lunch, Stillman Tiger Football, and games/prizes/fun! Email vbowen@stillman.edu or call 1-800-841-5722/205-366-8817.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Finding Money for College Powerpoint
Copy and paste the following website:
https://docs.google.com/present/view?id=dhn6kj6r_1fn84d7gz&interval=5&autoStart=true
https://docs.google.com/present/view?id=dhn6kj6r_1fn84d7gz&interval=5&autoStart=true
Linly Heflin Scholarship
The Linly Heflin Scholarship Committee grants four year scholarships in the amount of $3,000 per year to a limited number of Alabama women who have both significant economic need and a sound academic record. Applications can be downloaded at http://www.linlyheflin.org/.
Please note in our policies certain requirements that must be met:
1. Scholarships are restricted to four year Alabama, SACS accredited, colleges.
2. The minimum requirement for the ACT score is 23.
3. Alabama resident and U.S. citizen
4. Financial need
5. Academic proficiency
The completed application form and supporting documents must be mailed to our office and postmarked by January 13, 2012. No applications will be accepted after the postmark deadline. IMPORTANT: Applications must include all supporting documents and be signed by a parent or guardian in order to be considered complete and eligible for review. For those applicants who are selected to receive a Linly Heflin Scholarship, our scholarship support continues for four years unless the recipient becomes unqualified by not meeting the obligations listed in the scholarship policies.
Please note in our policies certain requirements that must be met:
1. Scholarships are restricted to four year Alabama, SACS accredited, colleges.
2. The minimum requirement for the ACT score is 23.
3. Alabama resident and U.S. citizen
4. Financial need
5. Academic proficiency
The completed application form and supporting documents must be mailed to our office and postmarked by January 13, 2012. No applications will be accepted after the postmark deadline. IMPORTANT: Applications must include all supporting documents and be signed by a parent or guardian in order to be considered complete and eligible for review. For those applicants who are selected to receive a Linly Heflin Scholarship, our scholarship support continues for four years unless the recipient becomes unqualified by not meeting the obligations listed in the scholarship policies.
What is the STARS System?
STARS stands for Statewide Transfer & Articulation Reporting System. STARS is a web-accessible database system which provides guidance and direction for prospective transfer students in the State of Alabama. The website is http://stars.troy.edu/.
The STARS System allows public two-year students in Alabama to obtain a Transfer Guide/Agreement for the major of their choice. This guide/agreement, if used correctly, guides the student through their first two years of coursework and prevents loss of credit hours upon transfer to the appropriate public four-year university in Alabama. Although transfer guides/agreements can only be printed for two-year to four-year transfers, the STARS system can still provide guidance and direction to transfer students who have a different transfer situation.
The STARS System allows public two-year students in Alabama to obtain a Transfer Guide/Agreement for the major of their choice. This guide/agreement, if used correctly, guides the student through their first two years of coursework and prevents loss of credit hours upon transfer to the appropriate public four-year university in Alabama. Although transfer guides/agreements can only be printed for two-year to four-year transfers, the STARS system can still provide guidance and direction to transfer students who have a different transfer situation.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
VHS BEAUTIFICATION DAY on OCTOBER 1
On Saturday, October 1, we will have our first annual (we hope) VHS Beautification Day from 8:00 am to 12 noon. We want to make the school and grounds look especially good for Homecoming Week which is October 3-7. Please come to the main campus of Verbena High School around 8:00 am with your yard tools, cleaning supplies, trash bags, and lots of energy. We will supply donuts and drinks for everyone. If you are planning on participating or have questions, please call the school office at (205) 280-2820.
Horatio Alger Association Scholarship
Since 1984, the Horatio Alger Association has awarded over $70 million in college scholarships to deserving students. Through nationally recognized educational programs, the Association reaches out directly to our nation's young people with a message of hope, opportunity, responsibility, and perserverance.
In keeping with the educational mission of the Horatio Alger Association, the scholarship programs provide financial assistance to students throughout the nation who have financial need and exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity. Scholarship criteria also include high school graduation in spring/summer of 2012, commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor's degree, and United States citizenship. The scholarships are given to deserving students each year and range in award value from $2,500 to $20,000. To submit an online application go to www.horatioalger.com/scholarships. Students may apply August 1 - October 30, 2011.
In keeping with the educational mission of the Horatio Alger Association, the scholarship programs provide financial assistance to students throughout the nation who have financial need and exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity. Scholarship criteria also include high school graduation in spring/summer of 2012, commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor's degree, and United States citizenship. The scholarships are given to deserving students each year and range in award value from $2,500 to $20,000. To submit an online application go to www.horatioalger.com/scholarships. Students may apply August 1 - October 30, 2011.
Alabama's ABC 33/40 "Teacher of the Week"
Students, nominate your favorite teacher for the ABC 33/40 "Teacher of the Week". This teacher is one that goes above and beyond the normal day-to-day duties and has a "true" love for the teaching profession. The winning teachers will receive an award certificate and recognition on a televised news piece in the ABC 33/40 Midday News that airs from 11am to 12pm and an invitation to attend a luncheon and receive the following: an award plaque specially engraved with the winning teacher's name, $100 gift card, ABC 33/40 Prize Package and a letter from the State of Alabama Department of Education. You may submit your nomination(s) on the ABC 33/40 website at http://www.abc3340.com/ or you may send your nominations via letter to this address:
ATTN: Jackie Bass
P.O. Box 360039
Birmingham, AL 35236
You may turn in your nominees each week up to March 31, 2012.
ATTN: Jackie Bass
P.O. Box 360039
Birmingham, AL 35236
You may turn in your nominees each week up to March 31, 2012.
HOBY Ambassador
Sophomores at Verbena High School have been given information about the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Program (HOBY). One sophomore and a runner-up will be selected to be the ambassador for VHS at the HOBY Leadership conference in 2012. The website to learn more about HOBY is http://www.hoby.org/.
This is the selection process for choosing the HOBY ambassador and runner-up from Verbena High:
1. Student must be in top 20% of the sophomore class academically.
2. Write an essay about leadership on this topic: in 100 words or less, please describe the most rewarding and challenging aspect of being a leader in your school and community.
3. Interview with school counselor and administrator.
The deadline for turning in essays is October 31, 2011.
This is the selection process for choosing the HOBY ambassador and runner-up from Verbena High:
1. Student must be in top 20% of the sophomore class academically.
2. Write an essay about leadership on this topic: in 100 words or less, please describe the most rewarding and challenging aspect of being a leader in your school and community.
3. Interview with school counselor and administrator.
The deadline for turning in essays is October 31, 2011.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Welcome Mrs. Robin Cagle - New Verbena High Principal!
We the family of Verbena High School welcome Mrs. Robin Cagle as our new principal! Mrs. Cagle had been serving as the assistant principal of Clanton Elementary before being chosen as the VHS principal. Mrs. Cagle's first day with us will be on October 3 - homecoming week! Mrs. Cagle is a Verbena alumni and is excited to be coming back home. We look forward to having her as our new principal and know that she will help our school to become even better in the years to come.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
PSAT/NMSQT Test Date at Verbena
The PSAT/NMSQT is a pre SAT test which measures the critical reading, mathematics and writing skills students need to succeed in college and beyond. The PSAT/NMSQT also provides entry into National Merit Scholarship Corporation competitions as well as other scholarship and recognition programs, such as the National Hispanic Recognition Program. Typically, students will take this test in the 11th grade to qualify for scholarships and recognition, but testing in the 10th grade provides early feedback while there is still time to plan and prepare. The test date is Wednesday, October 12. It will be held in the auditorium lobby beginning at 8:00 am. It takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes (plus 35 minutes for administrative activities). The test fee is $14. Please see Mrs. Champion to sign up and pay your test fee.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
American Legion Oratorical Competitions
Are you a good speaker? Not nervous to stand up and speak in front of an audience? Then you might be interested in the American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program. If you are interested, please see Mrs. Champion for more information. A school competition date has not been scheduled but it will take place before Feb. 6, 2012. Winners from our school competition will go to the next level contest, probably county or district. The next level is division, department, and state. Several colleges offer scholarships to the first place winner at the state level.
Prudential Spirit of Community Awards
Are you a youth volunteer in your school and community? Check out the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards at www.nassp.org/spirit or http://spirit.prudential.com/ to fill out an online application form. See Mrs. Champion if you would like a paper copy of this application.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Open House
The Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) is holding an open house on October 1. Sessions are at 9am, 10am, or 11am. Applications for the 2012-2013 school year will be available for current 6-10 graders applying for grades 7-11. Contact Jaronda Little at 205.252.9241 or online at jlittle@asfa.k12.al.us. Admission to the ASFA is by audition only in one of six specialty areas: Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre Arts, Visual Arts and Mathematics and Science (entering grades 8-11 only).
VFW Competitions for Students
VFW Post 3193 is pleased to announce that it is once again sponsoring the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition (grades 9-12) and the Patriot's Pen Essay Contest (grades 6-8). Mrs. Martin and Mrs. Childress (the 6th grade teachers) and Coach David have entry forms for the Patriot's Pen Essay Contest. See Coach Cleckler for entry forms for the Voice of Democracy. For additional information you can go to the website http://www.vfw.org/ and click on Community Programs.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Women's Colleges
There are many great colleges just for women. To find out more about them, see the poster outside the guidance office for a list of women's colleges and their websites.
Let Me Hear From You!
Hey, if you are visiting this blog, let me know by becoming a follower of my blog or just writing a comment or two. It's nice to have feedback to know someone is reading this. Thanks!
Jacksonville State University
JSU sent a folder to Verbena with information about their academic programs and admission requirements. They also sent some guides called "Your Guide to Where You're Going". This guide has a check list of things you should do each year you're in high school to help prepare for college. Check it out!
Social Work Degree
The University of Alabama offers a degree in social work. The website is socialwork.us.edu or contact them at studentservices@sw.us.edu. The phone number is 205-348-8413. Their poster is outside the guidance office which lists the different jobs you could get with a degree in social work.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Mississippi State Preview Days - October 10th and 24th
Visit http://www.statement.msstate.edu/ for more information or email questions to events@saffairs.msstate.edu.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Special Events of Interest to Juniors/Seniors
Tuskegee University Open House: Saturday, October 29, 2011.
University of North Alabama
Preview Day: November 5, 2011
Excellence Scholarship Deadline: February 1, 2012
Transfer Scholarship Deadline: May 1, 2012
University of Alabama
A Days: Friday, October 14, 2011; Friday, November 11, 2011; Friday, February 3, 2012; Monday, February 20, 2012.
Watkins College of Art, Design & Film:
Nashville National Portfolio Day, Sunday, October 16, 2011.
Alabama State University: Preview Day, Saturday, October 15, 2011.
University of Montevallo: The Main Event, September 21, 2011, 3 - 5 p.m.
Preview Day, October 29, 2011.
Judson College: Preview and Scholarship Day, September 24, 2011.
Penn University of Pennsylvania: Introduction to Pennsylvania, Sunday, September 25, 2011, 7:00 p.m. at Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta, GA.
Academy Night sponsored by Congressman Spencer Bacchus, Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. in Homewood, at the Homewood Library Auditorium.
Jacksonville State University: Fall Preview Day, Saturday, September 24, 2011.
University of North Alabama
Preview Day: November 5, 2011
Excellence Scholarship Deadline: February 1, 2012
Transfer Scholarship Deadline: May 1, 2012
University of Alabama
A Days: Friday, October 14, 2011; Friday, November 11, 2011; Friday, February 3, 2012; Monday, February 20, 2012.
Watkins College of Art, Design & Film:
Nashville National Portfolio Day, Sunday, October 16, 2011.
Alabama State University: Preview Day, Saturday, October 15, 2011.
University of Montevallo: The Main Event, September 21, 2011, 3 - 5 p.m.
Preview Day, October 29, 2011.
Judson College: Preview and Scholarship Day, September 24, 2011.
Penn University of Pennsylvania: Introduction to Pennsylvania, Sunday, September 25, 2011, 7:00 p.m. at Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta, GA.
Academy Night sponsored by Congressman Spencer Bacchus, Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. in Homewood, at the Homewood Library Auditorium.
Jacksonville State University: Fall Preview Day, Saturday, September 24, 2011.
Alabama High School Graduation Exam Fall 2011 Schedule
Below is the schedule for the Alabama High School Graduation Exam for the week of September 19 - 23:
Biology / Science - Monday, Sept. 19, 2011
Mathematics – Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011
Reading – Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011
Language – Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011
Social Studies – Friday, Sept. 23, 2011
Biology / Science - Monday, Sept. 19, 2011
Mathematics – Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011
Reading – Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011
Language – Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011
Social Studies – Friday, Sept. 23, 2011
Progress Report Day - Sept. 19, 2011
Students in all schools of the Chilton County School System will be receiving their first progress reports of the school year 2011-2012 on Monday, September 19. Teachers will also be handing out the 2011 SAT/ARMT Parent Reports which show a child's results from the standardized tests taken in Spring of 2011. Any parent/guardian who wishes to receive more information about their child's grades or test results should call the school office (205-280-2820) to set up an appointment.
Keeping Your Child's Teeth Healthy
When should I schedule my child's first trip to the dentist? Should my 3-year-old be flossing? How do I know if my child needs braces?
Many parents have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need. They know they want to prevent cavities, but they don't always know the best way to do so.
When Should Dental Care Start?
Proper dental care begins even before a baby's first tooth appears. “Remember that just because you can't see the teeth doesn’t mean they aren't there,” says Jennifer Howson, pediatric dentist at Children’s of Alabama. “Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.” Running a damp washcloth over your baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.
Parents and childcare providers should help young kids set specific times for drinking each day because sucking on a bottle throughout the day can be equally damaging to young teeth.
Pediatric Dentists
Consider taking your child to a dentist who specializes in treating kids. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the wide range of issues associated with kids' dental health. They also know when to refer you to a different type of specialist such as an orthodontist to correct an overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment.
“A pediatric dentist's primary goals are prevention -heading off potential problems before they occur, and maintenance- using routine checkups and proper daily care to keep teeth and gums healthy,” says Howson. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the experts at Children’s of Alabama recommend that a child's first visit to the dentist take place by the first birthday. At this visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques (you need to floss once your baby has two teeth that touch) and conduct a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap.
Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems, and help kids become accustomed to visiting the dentist so they'll have less fear about going as they grow older. When all primary teeth have come in (usually around age 2½), your dentist may start applying topical fluoride. Fluoride hardens the tooth enamel, helping to ward off the most common childhood oral disease, dental cavities (also called dental caries). Cavities occur when bacteria and food left on the teeth after eating are not brushed away. Acid collects on a tooth, softening its enamel until a hole — or cavity — forms. Regular use of fluoride toughens the enamel, making it more difficult for acid to penetrate.
Although many towns require tap water to be fluoridated, others don't. If the water supply is not fluoridated, or if your family uses purified water, ask your dentist for fluoride supplements. Most toothpastes contain fluoride but toothpaste alone will not fully protect a child's mouth. Be careful, however, since too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration. Check with your dentist before supplementing.
Brushing at least twice a day and routine flossing will help maintain a healthy mouth. Kids as young as age 2 or 3 can begin to use toothpaste when brushing, as long as they're supervised. Kids should not ingest large amounts of toothpaste — a pea-sized amount for toddlers is just right. Parents should always make sure the
child spits the toothpaste out instead of swallowing.
If Your Child Has a Problem
If you are prone to tooth decay or gum disease, your kids may be at higher risk as well. Therefore, sometimes even the most diligent brushing and flossing will not prevent a cavity. Be sure to call your dentist if your child complains of tooth pain, which could be a sign of a cavity that needs treatment.
To schedule a visit with the Dental Clinic at Children’s of Alabama, please call 205-939-9161.
For more information on this and other children’s health and safety issues, visit our web site at www.childrensal.org.
Many parents have a tough time judging how much dental care their kids need. They know they want to prevent cavities, but they don't always know the best way to do so.
When Should Dental Care Start?
Proper dental care begins even before a baby's first tooth appears. “Remember that just because you can't see the teeth doesn’t mean they aren't there,” says Jennifer Howson, pediatric dentist at Children’s of Alabama. “Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth your baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.” Running a damp washcloth over your baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once your child has a few teeth showing, you can brush them with a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.
Parents and childcare providers should help young kids set specific times for drinking each day because sucking on a bottle throughout the day can be equally damaging to young teeth.
Pediatric Dentists
Consider taking your child to a dentist who specializes in treating kids. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the wide range of issues associated with kids' dental health. They also know when to refer you to a different type of specialist such as an orthodontist to correct an overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment.
“A pediatric dentist's primary goals are prevention -heading off potential problems before they occur, and maintenance- using routine checkups and proper daily care to keep teeth and gums healthy,” says Howson. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the experts at Children’s of Alabama recommend that a child's first visit to the dentist take place by the first birthday. At this visit, the dentist will explain proper brushing and flossing techniques (you need to floss once your baby has two teeth that touch) and conduct a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap.
Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems, and help kids become accustomed to visiting the dentist so they'll have less fear about going as they grow older. When all primary teeth have come in (usually around age 2½), your dentist may start applying topical fluoride. Fluoride hardens the tooth enamel, helping to ward off the most common childhood oral disease, dental cavities (also called dental caries). Cavities occur when bacteria and food left on the teeth after eating are not brushed away. Acid collects on a tooth, softening its enamel until a hole — or cavity — forms. Regular use of fluoride toughens the enamel, making it more difficult for acid to penetrate.
Although many towns require tap water to be fluoridated, others don't. If the water supply is not fluoridated, or if your family uses purified water, ask your dentist for fluoride supplements. Most toothpastes contain fluoride but toothpaste alone will not fully protect a child's mouth. Be careful, however, since too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration. Check with your dentist before supplementing.
Brushing at least twice a day and routine flossing will help maintain a healthy mouth. Kids as young as age 2 or 3 can begin to use toothpaste when brushing, as long as they're supervised. Kids should not ingest large amounts of toothpaste — a pea-sized amount for toddlers is just right. Parents should always make sure the
child spits the toothpaste out instead of swallowing.
If Your Child Has a Problem
If you are prone to tooth decay or gum disease, your kids may be at higher risk as well. Therefore, sometimes even the most diligent brushing and flossing will not prevent a cavity. Be sure to call your dentist if your child complains of tooth pain, which could be a sign of a cavity that needs treatment.
To schedule a visit with the Dental Clinic at Children’s of Alabama, please call 205-939-9161.
For more information on this and other children’s health and safety issues, visit our web site at www.childrensal.org.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Monday, September 5, 2011
ACT Website
ACT, Inc. : A Student Site for ACT Test Takers
www.actstudent.org/
Go to this website for ACT prep suggestions and to register online for future ACT tests.
www.actstudent.org/
Go to this website for ACT prep suggestions and to register online for future ACT tests.
Monday, August 8, 2011
VHS Parent Involvement Night and Open House Grades 3-12
There will be a Parent Involvement meeting for grades 3-12 at Verbena High School auditorium at 6:30 PM on August 23. An open house for grades 3-12 will follow after the meeting. Mrs. Nichelle Johnson, the former reading coach for Verbena, is the new assistant principal for VHS. Mrs. Lucinda Champion who was the elementary counselor and Annex librarian last school year is now the guidance counselor for grades 7-12 at VHS.
Verbena Annex Orientation Night
There will be an orientation night and open house at the Verbena Annex for grades K-2 on Friday, August 12, at 5:30 PM. Students' supplies can be brought to their classrooms. There are some personnel changes this year at the Verbena Annex. Mrs. Sue Ellen Gilliland will be the reading coach and Mrs. Christina Cochran will be the Annex librarian and elementary counselor.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
A Case for School Connectedness
A Case for School Connectedness
by Robert W. Blum
Students are more likely to succeed when they feel connected to school.
School bonding, school climate, teacher support, student engagement: Researchers have used these terms over the years to address the concept of school connectedness. School connectedness refers to an academic environment in which students believe that adults in the school care about their learning and about them as individuals.
Klem and Connell (2004) provide a frightening statistic in this regard, noting that
By high school, as many as 40 to 60 percent of all students—urban, suburban, and rural—are chronically disengaged from school. (p. 262)
Is it possible that half of our high school students may not believe that adults in school care about their learning and about them as individuals? More to the point, what can educators do to reconnect these large numbers of chronically disconnected students?
Although connecting students to school is important at all grade levels, it's especially crucial during the adolescent years. In the last decade, educators and school health professionals have increasingly pointed to school connectedness as an important factor in reducing the likelihood that adolescents will engage in health-compromising behaviors. A connected school environment also increases the likelihood of academic success.
A great deal of research looks at school connectedness. But because this research spans so many fields—medicine, education, psychology, and sociology—and because it tackles so many related concepts, such as student engagement and school climate, the concept of school connectedness does not offer a clearly defined empirical base. In this era of accountability and standards, school connectedness can seem like a soft approach to school improvement. It can, however, have a substantial impact on the measures of student achievement for which schools are currently being held accountable.
In response to the weight of evidence that supports school connectedness, my colleagues and I convened an invitational conference at the Wingspread Conference Center in Racine, Wisconsin. Our goal was to bring together key researchers as well as representatives from the government, education, and health sectors to identify the current state of research-based knowledge related to school connectedness. Using this information, we synthesized a set of core principles about school connectedness to guide schools across the United States.1 We titled this synthesis the Wingspread Declaration on School Connections (see p. 20).
Distilling the Research
When one looks at the research literature across the different fields of inquiry, three school characteristics stand out as helping young people feel connected to school while simultaneously encouraging student achievement: (1) high academic standards coupled with strong teacher support; (2) an environment in which adult and student relationships are positive and respectful; and (3) a physically and emotionally safe school environment. Students who feel connected to school (independent of how these students are faring academically) are less likely to use substances, exhibit emotional distress, demonstrate violent or deviant behavior, experience suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide, and become pregnant (Lonczak, Abbott, Hawkins, Kosterman, & Catalano, 2002; Samdal, Nutbeam, Wold, & Kannas, 1998). In addition, when young people feel connected to school, they are less likely to skip school or be involved in fighting, bullying, and vandalism (Schapps, 2003; Wilson & Elliott, 2003). These students are more likely to succeed academically and graduate (Connell, Halpern-Felsher, Clifford, Crichlow, & Usinger, 1995; Wentzel, 1998).
What are the factors that influence school connectedness? Students who experience school connectedness like school, feel that they belong, believe teachers care about them and their learning, believe that education matters, have friends at school, believe that discipline is fair, and have opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities.
Major threats to school connectedness include social isolation, lack of safety in school, and poor classroom management. Social isolation, which is especially risky for adolescents, can result from students being ignored, bullied, or teased (Bishop et al., 2004) and tends to flourish in environments predominated by social cliques. Unsafe or chaotic schools and schools with poorly managed classrooms simply cannot provide a stable environment for respectful and meaningful student learning.
How Schools Can Help
How can schools encourage school connectedness? It does not come about purely as the result of rules, regulations, and zero-tolerance policies, which can actually mold harsh school environments. Connections spring instead from individual action on the part of both teachers and administrators as well as from more elusive factors, such as school environment.
Teachers are obviously central to the equation. Although school connectedness might suggest smaller class sizes, the classroom's culture seems to matter more than its size does. Effective teachers can create connectedness in the classroom in a number of ways. When teachers make learning meaningful and relevant to their students' lives, students develop a stake in their own education. When teachers create a clear classroom structure with consistent expectations for behavior and performance, they provide a healthy setting in which students can exercise autonomy and practice decision-making skills. Teachers build connectedness in the classroom when they encourage team learning exercises. Cooperative learning tends to break down social isolation by integrating student teams across gender, academic ability, and ethnicity. Rewarding a variety of student achievements and recognizing student progress—not only top performance—are also important components.
But teachers cannot create school connectedness on their own. Without a supportive administration, teachers will not be able to effectively support their students. For example, when a school allows a young person to fail—when it doesn't do everything in its power to retain that student—students get the message, “In this school, there are winners and there are losers.” This assumption sets up a dysfunctional dichotomy: Those less likely to do well academically will strive to create an anti-academic climate because they know they can't win at the game. The perceived winners—those who are academically proficient—are seen as “nerds,” as “dorks,” and, ironically enough, as “losers.” But when a principal calls home, when he or she follows up every time a student misses school, students get a different message entirely: “In this school, all students are expected to succeed.”
A study panel from the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine (2004) identified a series of factors associated with school engagement. Educators can substantially increase school connectedness in their students when they
Avoid separating students onto vocational and college tracks.
Set high academic standards for all students and provide all students with the same core curriculum.
Limit the size of the school to create small learning environments.
Form multidisciplinary education teams in which groups of teachers work with students.
Ensure that every student has an advisor.
Provide mentorship programs.
Ensure that course content is relevant to the lives of students.
Provide service learning and community service projects.
Provide experiential, hands-on learning opportunities.
Use a wide variety of instructional methods and technologies.
Extend the class period, school day, and/or school year.
Provide opportunities for students who are falling behind to catch up.
The Wingspread Declaration on School Connections
A generation of exciting research has reviewed strategies that have proven effective in creating engaging school climates in which young people feel connected. The Wingspread Declaration on School Connections is based on a detailed review of this research as well as on in-depth discussions among leaders in the health and education fields. The declaration's insights can form the foundation for school environments in which all students, regardless of their academic capacity, are engaged and feel part of the education endeavor.
We are responsible for our schools. We need to use what research and experience have taught us to create schools where students feel connected. We want high schoolers who are convinced that the adults with whom they interact care about them as individuals and care about their learning. These schools must establish high standards, challenge all students to reach their potential, and provide the support students need to succeed.
Wingspread Declaration on School Connections
Students are more likely to succeed when they feel connected to school. School connection is the belief by students that adults in the school care about their learning as well as about them as individuals. The critical requirements for feeling connected include students' experiencing
High academic expectations and rigor coupled with support for learning.
Positive adult/student relationships.
Physical and emotional safety.
Increasing the number of students connected to school is likely to influence critical accountability measures, such as
Academic performance.
Incidents of fighting, bullying, or vandalism.
Absenteeism.
School completion rates.
Strong scientific evidence demonstrates that increased student connection to school promotes
Motivation.
Classroom engagement.
Improved school attendance.
These three factors in turn increase academic achievement. These findings apply across racial, ethnic, and income groups.
Likewise, there is strong evidence that a student who feels connected to school is less likely to exhibit
Disruptive behavior.
School violence.
Substance and tobacco use.
Emotional distress.
Early age of first sex.
The most effective strategies for increasing the likelihood that students will be connected to school include
Implementing high standards and expectations and providing academic support to all students.
Applying fair and consistent disciplinary policies that are collectively agreed upon and fairly enforced.
Creating trusting relationships among students, teachers, staff, administrators, and families.
Hiring and supporting capable teachers skilled in content, teaching techniques, and classroom management to meet each learner's needs.
Fostering high parent/family expectations for school performance and school completion.
Ensuring that every student feels close to at least one supportive adult at school.
Best Bets Warranting Further Research
Programs and approaches that create positive and purposeful peer support and peer norms.
Strategies that work to promote connection to school among disenfranchised groups.
Analysis of the costs and effectiveness of different programs for fostering school connectedness.
Evaluation of new and existing curricular approaches, staff and administrator training, and various institutional structures.
Effects of school connectedness in students on teacher morale, effectiveness, and turnover.
References
Bishop, J. H., Bishop, M., Bishop, M., Gelbwasser, L., Green, S., Peterson, E., et al. (2004). Journal of School Health, 74(7), 235–251.
Connell, J. P., Halpern-Felsher, B., Clifford, E., Crichlow, W., & Usinger, P. (1995). Hanging in there: Behavioral, psychological, and contextual factors affecting whether African-American adolescents stay in school. Journal of Adolescent Research, 10(1), 41–63.
Klem, A. M., & Connell, J. P. (2004). Relationships matter: Linking teacher support to student engagement and achievement. Journal of School Health, 74(7), 262–273.
Lonczak, H. S., Abbott, R. D., Hawkins, J. D., Kosterman, R., & Catalano, R. (2002). The effects of the Seattle Social Development Project: Behavior, pregnancy, birth, and sexually transmitted disease outcomes by age 21. Archives of Pediatric Adolescent Health, 156, 438–447.
National Research Council and Institute of Medicine. (2004). Engaging schools: Fostering high school students' motivation to learn. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. Available: www.nap.edu/books/0309084350/html/
Samdal, O., Nutbeam, D., Wold, B., & Kannas, L. (1998). Achieving health and educational goals through schools. Health Education Research, 13(3), 383–397.
Schapps, E. (2003, April). The role of supportive school environments in promoting academic success. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Education Press.
Wentzel, K. R. (1998). Social relationships and motivation in middle school. Journal of Educational Psychology, 90(2), 202–209.
Wilson, D., & Elliott, D. (2003, June). The interface of school climate and school connectedness: An exploratory review and study. Paper presented at the Wingspread Conference on School Connectedness: Strengthening Health and Educational Outcomes for Teens, Racine, Wisconsin.
Endnote
1 This work was supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH). The proceedings from the invitational conference and the Wingspread Declaration on School Connections are available at www.allaboutkids.umn.edu/WingfortheWeb/schooldeclaration.pdf. ASCD was a conference participant.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Robert W. Blum is Professor and William H. Gates Sr. Chair, Department of Population and Family Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2005 by Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
by Robert W. Blum
Students are more likely to succeed when they feel connected to school.
School bonding, school climate, teacher support, student engagement: Researchers have used these terms over the years to address the concept of school connectedness. School connectedness refers to an academic environment in which students believe that adults in the school care about their learning and about them as individuals.
Klem and Connell (2004) provide a frightening statistic in this regard, noting that
By high school, as many as 40 to 60 percent of all students—urban, suburban, and rural—are chronically disengaged from school. (p. 262)
Is it possible that half of our high school students may not believe that adults in school care about their learning and about them as individuals? More to the point, what can educators do to reconnect these large numbers of chronically disconnected students?
Although connecting students to school is important at all grade levels, it's especially crucial during the adolescent years. In the last decade, educators and school health professionals have increasingly pointed to school connectedness as an important factor in reducing the likelihood that adolescents will engage in health-compromising behaviors. A connected school environment also increases the likelihood of academic success.
A great deal of research looks at school connectedness. But because this research spans so many fields—medicine, education, psychology, and sociology—and because it tackles so many related concepts, such as student engagement and school climate, the concept of school connectedness does not offer a clearly defined empirical base. In this era of accountability and standards, school connectedness can seem like a soft approach to school improvement. It can, however, have a substantial impact on the measures of student achievement for which schools are currently being held accountable.
In response to the weight of evidence that supports school connectedness, my colleagues and I convened an invitational conference at the Wingspread Conference Center in Racine, Wisconsin. Our goal was to bring together key researchers as well as representatives from the government, education, and health sectors to identify the current state of research-based knowledge related to school connectedness. Using this information, we synthesized a set of core principles about school connectedness to guide schools across the United States.1 We titled this synthesis the Wingspread Declaration on School Connections (see p. 20).
Distilling the Research
When one looks at the research literature across the different fields of inquiry, three school characteristics stand out as helping young people feel connected to school while simultaneously encouraging student achievement: (1) high academic standards coupled with strong teacher support; (2) an environment in which adult and student relationships are positive and respectful; and (3) a physically and emotionally safe school environment. Students who feel connected to school (independent of how these students are faring academically) are less likely to use substances, exhibit emotional distress, demonstrate violent or deviant behavior, experience suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide, and become pregnant (Lonczak, Abbott, Hawkins, Kosterman, & Catalano, 2002; Samdal, Nutbeam, Wold, & Kannas, 1998). In addition, when young people feel connected to school, they are less likely to skip school or be involved in fighting, bullying, and vandalism (Schapps, 2003; Wilson & Elliott, 2003). These students are more likely to succeed academically and graduate (Connell, Halpern-Felsher, Clifford, Crichlow, & Usinger, 1995; Wentzel, 1998).
What are the factors that influence school connectedness? Students who experience school connectedness like school, feel that they belong, believe teachers care about them and their learning, believe that education matters, have friends at school, believe that discipline is fair, and have opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities.
Major threats to school connectedness include social isolation, lack of safety in school, and poor classroom management. Social isolation, which is especially risky for adolescents, can result from students being ignored, bullied, or teased (Bishop et al., 2004) and tends to flourish in environments predominated by social cliques. Unsafe or chaotic schools and schools with poorly managed classrooms simply cannot provide a stable environment for respectful and meaningful student learning.
How Schools Can Help
How can schools encourage school connectedness? It does not come about purely as the result of rules, regulations, and zero-tolerance policies, which can actually mold harsh school environments. Connections spring instead from individual action on the part of both teachers and administrators as well as from more elusive factors, such as school environment.
Teachers are obviously central to the equation. Although school connectedness might suggest smaller class sizes, the classroom's culture seems to matter more than its size does. Effective teachers can create connectedness in the classroom in a number of ways. When teachers make learning meaningful and relevant to their students' lives, students develop a stake in their own education. When teachers create a clear classroom structure with consistent expectations for behavior and performance, they provide a healthy setting in which students can exercise autonomy and practice decision-making skills. Teachers build connectedness in the classroom when they encourage team learning exercises. Cooperative learning tends to break down social isolation by integrating student teams across gender, academic ability, and ethnicity. Rewarding a variety of student achievements and recognizing student progress—not only top performance—are also important components.
But teachers cannot create school connectedness on their own. Without a supportive administration, teachers will not be able to effectively support their students. For example, when a school allows a young person to fail—when it doesn't do everything in its power to retain that student—students get the message, “In this school, there are winners and there are losers.” This assumption sets up a dysfunctional dichotomy: Those less likely to do well academically will strive to create an anti-academic climate because they know they can't win at the game. The perceived winners—those who are academically proficient—are seen as “nerds,” as “dorks,” and, ironically enough, as “losers.” But when a principal calls home, when he or she follows up every time a student misses school, students get a different message entirely: “In this school, all students are expected to succeed.”
A study panel from the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine (2004) identified a series of factors associated with school engagement. Educators can substantially increase school connectedness in their students when they
Avoid separating students onto vocational and college tracks.
Set high academic standards for all students and provide all students with the same core curriculum.
Limit the size of the school to create small learning environments.
Form multidisciplinary education teams in which groups of teachers work with students.
Ensure that every student has an advisor.
Provide mentorship programs.
Ensure that course content is relevant to the lives of students.
Provide service learning and community service projects.
Provide experiential, hands-on learning opportunities.
Use a wide variety of instructional methods and technologies.
Extend the class period, school day, and/or school year.
Provide opportunities for students who are falling behind to catch up.
The Wingspread Declaration on School Connections
A generation of exciting research has reviewed strategies that have proven effective in creating engaging school climates in which young people feel connected. The Wingspread Declaration on School Connections is based on a detailed review of this research as well as on in-depth discussions among leaders in the health and education fields. The declaration's insights can form the foundation for school environments in which all students, regardless of their academic capacity, are engaged and feel part of the education endeavor.
We are responsible for our schools. We need to use what research and experience have taught us to create schools where students feel connected. We want high schoolers who are convinced that the adults with whom they interact care about them as individuals and care about their learning. These schools must establish high standards, challenge all students to reach their potential, and provide the support students need to succeed.
Wingspread Declaration on School Connections
Students are more likely to succeed when they feel connected to school. School connection is the belief by students that adults in the school care about their learning as well as about them as individuals. The critical requirements for feeling connected include students' experiencing
High academic expectations and rigor coupled with support for learning.
Positive adult/student relationships.
Physical and emotional safety.
Increasing the number of students connected to school is likely to influence critical accountability measures, such as
Academic performance.
Incidents of fighting, bullying, or vandalism.
Absenteeism.
School completion rates.
Strong scientific evidence demonstrates that increased student connection to school promotes
Motivation.
Classroom engagement.
Improved school attendance.
These three factors in turn increase academic achievement. These findings apply across racial, ethnic, and income groups.
Likewise, there is strong evidence that a student who feels connected to school is less likely to exhibit
Disruptive behavior.
School violence.
Substance and tobacco use.
Emotional distress.
Early age of first sex.
The most effective strategies for increasing the likelihood that students will be connected to school include
Implementing high standards and expectations and providing academic support to all students.
Applying fair and consistent disciplinary policies that are collectively agreed upon and fairly enforced.
Creating trusting relationships among students, teachers, staff, administrators, and families.
Hiring and supporting capable teachers skilled in content, teaching techniques, and classroom management to meet each learner's needs.
Fostering high parent/family expectations for school performance and school completion.
Ensuring that every student feels close to at least one supportive adult at school.
Best Bets Warranting Further Research
Programs and approaches that create positive and purposeful peer support and peer norms.
Strategies that work to promote connection to school among disenfranchised groups.
Analysis of the costs and effectiveness of different programs for fostering school connectedness.
Evaluation of new and existing curricular approaches, staff and administrator training, and various institutional structures.
Effects of school connectedness in students on teacher morale, effectiveness, and turnover.
References
Bishop, J. H., Bishop, M., Bishop, M., Gelbwasser, L., Green, S., Peterson, E., et al. (2004). Journal of School Health, 74(7), 235–251.
Connell, J. P., Halpern-Felsher, B., Clifford, E., Crichlow, W., & Usinger, P. (1995). Hanging in there: Behavioral, psychological, and contextual factors affecting whether African-American adolescents stay in school. Journal of Adolescent Research, 10(1), 41–63.
Klem, A. M., & Connell, J. P. (2004). Relationships matter: Linking teacher support to student engagement and achievement. Journal of School Health, 74(7), 262–273.
Lonczak, H. S., Abbott, R. D., Hawkins, J. D., Kosterman, R., & Catalano, R. (2002). The effects of the Seattle Social Development Project: Behavior, pregnancy, birth, and sexually transmitted disease outcomes by age 21. Archives of Pediatric Adolescent Health, 156, 438–447.
National Research Council and Institute of Medicine. (2004). Engaging schools: Fostering high school students' motivation to learn. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. Available: www.nap.edu/books/0309084350/html/
Samdal, O., Nutbeam, D., Wold, B., & Kannas, L. (1998). Achieving health and educational goals through schools. Health Education Research, 13(3), 383–397.
Schapps, E. (2003, April). The role of supportive school environments in promoting academic success. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Education Press.
Wentzel, K. R. (1998). Social relationships and motivation in middle school. Journal of Educational Psychology, 90(2), 202–209.
Wilson, D., & Elliott, D. (2003, June). The interface of school climate and school connectedness: An exploratory review and study. Paper presented at the Wingspread Conference on School Connectedness: Strengthening Health and Educational Outcomes for Teens, Racine, Wisconsin.
Endnote
1 This work was supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH). The proceedings from the invitational conference and the Wingspread Declaration on School Connections are available at www.allaboutkids.umn.edu/WingfortheWeb/schooldeclaration.pdf. ASCD was a conference participant.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Robert W. Blum is Professor and William H. Gates Sr. Chair, Department of Population and Family Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2005 by Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
Monday, June 13, 2011
SUNBURN SAFETY - Use Sunscreen Consistently
There is nothing better than spending a summer day at the beach or the
pool. However, it is vital to protect your kids from over-exposure to
the sun. Experts at Children's Hospital of Alabama urge you to take
precautions to help your kids avoid dangerous sunburns while enjoying
outdoor activities- especially since sun damage that occurs as early as
an infant's first summer can lead to skin cancer later in life.
"Make sure to stay in shaded areas as much as possible," says Kelly
Pinon-Smith, nursing educator with Children's Hospital. "Keep your child
covered, and using sunscreen is an absolute must."
Lots of good sunscreens are available for kids, including formulations
for sensitive skin, brands with fun scents like watermelon, long-lasting
waterproof and sweat-proof versions, and easy-application varieties in
spray bottles.
What matters most in a sunscreen is the degree of protection from UV
rays it provides. When faced with the overwhelming sea of sunscreen
choices at drugstores, concentrate on the SPF (sun protection factor)
numbers on the labels.
For kids age 6 months and older, select an SPF of 30 or higher to
prevent both sunburn and tanning. Choose a sunscreen that states on the
label that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (referred to as
"broad-spectrum" sunscreen). In general, sunscreens provide better
protections against UVB rays than UVA rays, making signs of skin aging a
risk even with consistent use of sunscreen. To avoid possible skin
allergy, don't use sunscreens with PABA; if your child has sensitive
skin, look for a product with the active ingredient titanium dioxide (a
chemical-free block).
To get a tanned appearance, teens might try self-tanning lotions. These
offer an alternative to ultraviolet exposure, but only minimal (or no)
protection from UV light.
For sunscreen to do its job, it must be applied correctly. Be sure to:
* Apply sunscreen whenever kids will be in the sun.
* Apply sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before kids go outside
so that a good layer of protection can form. Don't forget about lips,
hands, ears, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck. Lift up bathing suit
straps and apply sunscreen underneath them (in case the straps shift as
a child moves).
* Don't try to stretch out a bottle of sunscreen; apply it
generously.
* Reapply sunscreen often, approximately every 2 hours, as
recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Reapply after a
child has been sweating or swimming.
* Apply a waterproof sunscreen if kids will be around water or
swimming. Water reflects and intensifies the sun's rays, so kids need
protection that lasts. Waterproof sunscreens may last up to 80 minutes
in the water, and some are also sweat and rub-proof. But regardless of
the waterproof label, be sure to reapply sunscreen when kids come out of
the water.
Keep in mind that every child needs extra sun protection. The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all kids - regardless of their
skin tone - wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Although dark
skin has more protective melanin and tans more easily than it burns,
remember that tanning is also a sign of sun damage. Dark-skinned kids
also can develop painful sunburns.
Be Sun Safe Yourself
Don't forget: Be a good role model by consistently wearing sunscreen
with SPF 30 or greater, using sunglasses, and limiting your time in the
sun. These preventive behaviors not only reduce your risk of sun damage,
but teach your kids good sun sense.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety
issues, visit our web site at www.chsys.org .
To see Children's Hospital expert Kelly Pinon-Smith discuss this topic,
visit this month's video .
pool. However, it is vital to protect your kids from over-exposure to
the sun. Experts at Children's Hospital of Alabama urge you to take
precautions to help your kids avoid dangerous sunburns while enjoying
outdoor activities- especially since sun damage that occurs as early as
an infant's first summer can lead to skin cancer later in life.
"Make sure to stay in shaded areas as much as possible," says Kelly
Pinon-Smith, nursing educator with Children's Hospital. "Keep your child
covered, and using sunscreen is an absolute must."
Lots of good sunscreens are available for kids, including formulations
for sensitive skin, brands with fun scents like watermelon, long-lasting
waterproof and sweat-proof versions, and easy-application varieties in
spray bottles.
What matters most in a sunscreen is the degree of protection from UV
rays it provides. When faced with the overwhelming sea of sunscreen
choices at drugstores, concentrate on the SPF (sun protection factor)
numbers on the labels.
For kids age 6 months and older, select an SPF of 30 or higher to
prevent both sunburn and tanning. Choose a sunscreen that states on the
label that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (referred to as
"broad-spectrum" sunscreen). In general, sunscreens provide better
protections against UVB rays than UVA rays, making signs of skin aging a
risk even with consistent use of sunscreen. To avoid possible skin
allergy, don't use sunscreens with PABA; if your child has sensitive
skin, look for a product with the active ingredient titanium dioxide (a
chemical-free block).
To get a tanned appearance, teens might try self-tanning lotions. These
offer an alternative to ultraviolet exposure, but only minimal (or no)
protection from UV light.
For sunscreen to do its job, it must be applied correctly. Be sure to:
* Apply sunscreen whenever kids will be in the sun.
* Apply sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before kids go outside
so that a good layer of protection can form. Don't forget about lips,
hands, ears, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck. Lift up bathing suit
straps and apply sunscreen underneath them (in case the straps shift as
a child moves).
* Don't try to stretch out a bottle of sunscreen; apply it
generously.
* Reapply sunscreen often, approximately every 2 hours, as
recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Reapply after a
child has been sweating or swimming.
* Apply a waterproof sunscreen if kids will be around water or
swimming. Water reflects and intensifies the sun's rays, so kids need
protection that lasts. Waterproof sunscreens may last up to 80 minutes
in the water, and some are also sweat and rub-proof. But regardless of
the waterproof label, be sure to reapply sunscreen when kids come out of
the water.
Keep in mind that every child needs extra sun protection. The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all kids - regardless of their
skin tone - wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Although dark
skin has more protective melanin and tans more easily than it burns,
remember that tanning is also a sign of sun damage. Dark-skinned kids
also can develop painful sunburns.
Be Sun Safe Yourself
Don't forget: Be a good role model by consistently wearing sunscreen
with SPF 30 or greater, using sunglasses, and limiting your time in the
sun. These preventive behaviors not only reduce your risk of sun damage,
but teach your kids good sun sense.
For more information on this and other children's health and safety
issues, visit our web site at www.chsys.org
To see Children's Hospital expert Kelly Pinon-Smith discuss this topic,
visit this month's video
Thursday, May 19, 2011
HONORS PROGRAMS FOR K-6 GRADES
The Honors Program for grades 3-6 at Verbena High School will be held in the Verbena High School auditorium at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, May 25. The Honors Program for grades K-2 will be held at the Verbena School Annex on Wednesday, May 25, at 11:30 AM. Parents and guardians of the students are invited to attend.
HELPING KIDS COPE
The April 27th storms left not only a path of destruction but also
widespread fear and sadness across our state and especially in our
children. Experts at the Children's Hospital of Alabama feel it is
important to teach children the best ways to cope with the feelings of
loss, despair and hopelessness that accompany the aftermath of a natural
disaster.
"The tornados not only devastated infrastructure but also devastated
lives, said Andy McNeil, director of The Amelia Center at Children's
Hospital. "Those that were not directly affected were certainly touched
by these storms in one way or another."
McNeil offers these tips in helping children understand and cope with
either personal grief, or grief that others around them are
experiencing:
* Take care of yourself - get enough sleep, eat well-balanced
meals, stick to regular routines and reach out to others for support. As
an adult, you are a model to children of how to cope with traumatic
events.
* Discuss the tragic event with your child in a simple and
direct manner. Be honest and share clear, accurate information about the
tragedy. Children need to hear the truth from someone they love.
* Listen to and respect your child's fears. Let your child know
that it is normal to feel worried or upset.
* Give your child a creative outlet to express feelings. This
can be done through drawing, writing, listening to music, playing games
or talking with dolls or family pets.
* Keep rules and boundaries consistent. Children gain security
in knowing that daily activities will remain the same.
* Reassure your child that he/she is loved and that you are
there to take care of him/her. Following a tragic event, a child's sense
of safety is shaken. Reassure your child that your family is safe.
* Give your child a sense of control by providing him/her with
ways your family can help others in the community. Encourage children
to be creative in the way that they want to get involved and help
others.
* Most importantly, be there for your child. Give extra
attention and be affectionate. Spend quality time together as a family.
The Amelia Center is a Birmingham based non-profit organization that
serves as a comprehensive community grief-counseling center. The Amelia
Center is a support service of Children's Hospital and is a United Way
of Central Alabama agency providing individual and family grief
counseling services at no charge.
Services also include grief support groups, Critical Incident Stress
Management response teams that serve schools throughout the state of
Alabama when there has been a death, and a variety of training
workshops on bereavement and loss-related topics.
Although most work is done at the Center, the staff trains caregivers,
health care professionals, school counselors, teachers, clergy and
others in grief counseling. The staff is also available to work with
schools in crisis situations.
George and Jerrie Elliott, supported by Pastoral Counselor Joe McNulty
and Children's Health System, established the Amelia Center in memory of
their daughter, Amelia, a 17-year-old camp counselor who was one of four
teens killed in a car/train collision in 1995.
For more information about the Amelia Center, or to schedule an
appointment, please call (205) 212-7481 or visit www.ameliacenter.org.
To see Children's Hospital expert Andy McNeil discuss this topic, visit
this month's video.
widespread fear and sadness across our state and especially in our
children. Experts at the Children's Hospital of Alabama feel it is
important to teach children the best ways to cope with the feelings of
loss, despair and hopelessness that accompany the aftermath of a natural
disaster.
"The tornados not only devastated infrastructure but also devastated
lives, said Andy McNeil, director of The Amelia Center at Children's
Hospital. "Those that were not directly affected were certainly touched
by these storms in one way or another."
McNeil offers these tips in helping children understand and cope with
either personal grief, or grief that others around them are
experiencing:
* Take care of yourself - get enough sleep, eat well-balanced
meals, stick to regular routines and reach out to others for support. As
an adult, you are a model to children of how to cope with traumatic
events.
* Discuss the tragic event with your child in a simple and
direct manner. Be honest and share clear, accurate information about the
tragedy. Children need to hear the truth from someone they love.
* Listen to and respect your child's fears. Let your child know
that it is normal to feel worried or upset.
* Give your child a creative outlet to express feelings. This
can be done through drawing, writing, listening to music, playing games
or talking with dolls or family pets.
* Keep rules and boundaries consistent. Children gain security
in knowing that daily activities will remain the same.
* Reassure your child that he/she is loved and that you are
there to take care of him/her. Following a tragic event, a child's sense
of safety is shaken. Reassure your child that your family is safe.
* Give your child a sense of control by providing him/her with
ways your family can help others in the community. Encourage children
to be creative in the way that they want to get involved and help
others.
* Most importantly, be there for your child. Give extra
attention and be affectionate. Spend quality time together as a family.
The Amelia Center is a Birmingham based non-profit organization that
serves as a comprehensive community grief-counseling center. The Amelia
Center is a support service of Children's Hospital and is a United Way
of Central Alabama agency providing individual and family grief
counseling services at no charge.
Services also include grief support groups, Critical Incident Stress
Management response teams that serve schools throughout the state of
Alabama when there has been a death, and a variety of training
workshops on bereavement and loss-related topics.
Although most work is done at the Center, the staff trains caregivers,
health care professionals, school counselors, teachers, clergy and
others in grief counseling. The staff is also available to work with
schools in crisis situations.
George and Jerrie Elliott, supported by Pastoral Counselor Joe McNulty
and Children's Health System, established the Amelia Center in memory of
their daughter, Amelia, a 17-year-old camp counselor who was one of four
teens killed in a car/train collision in 1995.
For more information about the Amelia Center, or to schedule an
appointment, please call (205) 212-7481 or visit www.ameliacenter.org.
To see Children's Hospital expert Andy McNeil discuss this topic, visit
this month's video
Monday, May 2, 2011
Special Days in May
May 5 – Cinco de Mayo
May 8 – Mother’s Day
May 11 – National School Nurse Day
May 21 – Armed Forces Day
May 25 – Honors Program for grades 3-6 at 9:30 A M
May 24-25 – Semester Exams
May 25 - Honors Program for grades K-2 at 1:30 at Annex
May 26 – Last day of school for students
Senior Graduation
May 30 – Memorial Day
May 8 – Mother’s Day
May 11 – National School Nurse Day
May 21 – Armed Forces Day
May 25 – Honors Program for grades 3-6 at 9:30 A M
May 24-25 – Semester Exams
May 25 - Honors Program for grades K-2 at 1:30 at Annex
May 26 – Last day of school for students
Senior Graduation
May 30 – Memorial Day
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Helpful Website for Parents and Educators
I found this website in a search for resources, http://www.educationcoffeehouse.com/k12/index.html. Maybe someone else can find some useful information in it. I really did!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Fourth Nine Weeks Progress Reports
Parents/guardians should be looking for their children or teens to be bringing home their fourth nine weeks progress reports today (04/25/11).
If you have any concerns about your child's grades, please call the school at 280-2820 to set up an appointment with your child's teacher(s). There are five weeks left in this school year. Keep your child on their homework schedule and do not let them slack up with studying.
If you have any concerns about your child's grades, please call the school at 280-2820 to set up an appointment with your child's teacher(s). There are five weeks left in this school year. Keep your child on their homework schedule and do not let them slack up with studying.
Good Sportsmanship
The character education word of the week is GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP. The following article on sportsmanship is from the website kidshealth.org.
Emily was crying by the time the softball game ended. It wasn't because her team had lost. It wasn't because she was unhappy about her own playing. It wasn't even because of anything the other team had said or done. Emily's tears came after her dad yelled at her — in front of all her teammates — for missing the fly ball that could have saved the game. Emily is just 8 years old.
If your child has ever participated in a sport, you've undoubtedly met people like Emily's dad, parents who behave inappropriately and upset their kids. These parents get so wrapped up in winning and losing or how well their own kids perform that they lose sight of what's really important. They forget that one of the most important goals of kids' sports is to promote a sense of good sportsmanship.
What Is Good Sportsmanship?
Good sportsmanship is when teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials treat each other with respect. Kids learn the basics of sportsmanship from the adults in their lives, especially their parents and their coaches. Kids who see adults behaving in a sportsmanlike way gradually come to understand that the real winners in sports are those who know how to persevere and to behave with dignity — whether they win or lose a game.
Parents can help their kids understand that good sportsmanship includes both small gestures and heroic efforts. It starts with something as simple as shaking hands with opponents before a game and includes acknowledging good plays made by others and accepting bad calls gracefully.
Displaying good sportsmanship isn't always easy: It can be tough to congratulate the opposing team after losing a close or important game. But the kids who learn how to do it will benefit in many ways.
Kids who bully or taunt others on the playing field aren't likely to change their behavior when in the classroom or in social situations. In the same way, a child who practices good sportsmanship is likely to carry the respect and appreciation of other people into every other aspect of life.
Good Sports Are Winners
Ask first- or second-graders who won a game and they may answer, "I think it was a tie." It's likely the question isn't of any real interest at that age. Kids may be more eager to talk about the hits they got or the catches they almost made.
But as they move into older and more competitive leagues, kids become more focused on winning. They often forget to have fun. Without constant reminders and good examples, they may also forget what behavior is appropriate before, during, and after a sporting event.
Kids who have coaches who care only about being in first place and say that anything goes as long as they win, pick up the message that it's OK to be ruthless on the field. If parents constantly pressure them to play better or second-guess their every move, kids get the message that they're only as good as their last good play — and they'll try anything to make one.
Adults who emphasize good sportsmanship, however, see winning as just one of several goals they'd like their kids to achieve. They help young athletes take pride in their accomplishments and in their improving skills, so that the kids see themselves as winners, even if the scoreboard doesn't show the numbers going in their favor.
The best coaches — and parents — encourage their kids to play fair, to have fun, and to concentrate on helping the team while polishing their own skills.
Fostering Good Sportsmanship
Remember the saying "Actions speak louder than words"? That's especially true when it comes to teaching your kids the basics of good sportsmanship. Your behavior during practices and games will influence them more than any pep talk or lecture you give them.
Here are some suggestions on how to build sportsmanship in your kids:
Unless you're coaching your child's team, you need to remember that you're the parent. Shout words of encouragement, not directions, from the sidelines (there is a difference!).If you are your kid's coach, don't expect too much out of your own child. Don't be harder on him or her than on anyone else on the team, but don't play favorites either.Keep your comments positive. Don't bad-mouth coaches, players, or game officials. If you have a serious concern about the way that games or practices are being conducted, or if you're upset about other parents' behavior, discuss it privately with the coach or with a league official.After a competition, it's important not to dwell on who won or lost. Instead, try asking, "How did you feel you did during the game?" If your child feels weak at a particular skill, like throwing or catching, offer to work on it together before the next game.Applaud good plays no matter who makes them.Set a good example with your courteous behavior toward the parents of kids on the other team. Congratulate them when their kids win.Remember that it's your kids, not you, who are playing. Don't push them into a sport because it's what you enjoyed. As kids get older, let them choose what sports they want to play and decide the level of commitment they want to make.Keep your perspective. It's just a game. Even if the team loses every game of the season, it's unlikely to ruin your child's life or chances of success.Look for examples of good sportsmanship in professional athletes and point them out to your kids. Talk about the bad examples, too, and why they upset you.Finally, don't forget to have fun. Even if your child isn't the star, enjoy the game while you're thinking of all the benefits your child is gaining — new skills, new friends, and attitudes that can help all through life.Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: October 2008
Originally reviewed by: Steve Sanders, PhD
Emily was crying by the time the softball game ended. It wasn't because her team had lost. It wasn't because she was unhappy about her own playing. It wasn't even because of anything the other team had said or done. Emily's tears came after her dad yelled at her — in front of all her teammates — for missing the fly ball that could have saved the game. Emily is just 8 years old.
If your child has ever participated in a sport, you've undoubtedly met people like Emily's dad, parents who behave inappropriately and upset their kids. These parents get so wrapped up in winning and losing or how well their own kids perform that they lose sight of what's really important. They forget that one of the most important goals of kids' sports is to promote a sense of good sportsmanship.
What Is Good Sportsmanship?
Good sportsmanship is when teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials treat each other with respect. Kids learn the basics of sportsmanship from the adults in their lives, especially their parents and their coaches. Kids who see adults behaving in a sportsmanlike way gradually come to understand that the real winners in sports are those who know how to persevere and to behave with dignity — whether they win or lose a game.
Parents can help their kids understand that good sportsmanship includes both small gestures and heroic efforts. It starts with something as simple as shaking hands with opponents before a game and includes acknowledging good plays made by others and accepting bad calls gracefully.
Displaying good sportsmanship isn't always easy: It can be tough to congratulate the opposing team after losing a close or important game. But the kids who learn how to do it will benefit in many ways.
Kids who bully or taunt others on the playing field aren't likely to change their behavior when in the classroom or in social situations. In the same way, a child who practices good sportsmanship is likely to carry the respect and appreciation of other people into every other aspect of life.
Good Sports Are Winners
Ask first- or second-graders who won a game and they may answer, "I think it was a tie." It's likely the question isn't of any real interest at that age. Kids may be more eager to talk about the hits they got or the catches they almost made.
But as they move into older and more competitive leagues, kids become more focused on winning. They often forget to have fun. Without constant reminders and good examples, they may also forget what behavior is appropriate before, during, and after a sporting event.
Kids who have coaches who care only about being in first place and say that anything goes as long as they win, pick up the message that it's OK to be ruthless on the field. If parents constantly pressure them to play better or second-guess their every move, kids get the message that they're only as good as their last good play — and they'll try anything to make one.
Adults who emphasize good sportsmanship, however, see winning as just one of several goals they'd like their kids to achieve. They help young athletes take pride in their accomplishments and in their improving skills, so that the kids see themselves as winners, even if the scoreboard doesn't show the numbers going in their favor.
The best coaches — and parents — encourage their kids to play fair, to have fun, and to concentrate on helping the team while polishing their own skills.
Fostering Good Sportsmanship
Remember the saying "Actions speak louder than words"? That's especially true when it comes to teaching your kids the basics of good sportsmanship. Your behavior during practices and games will influence them more than any pep talk or lecture you give them.
Here are some suggestions on how to build sportsmanship in your kids:
Unless you're coaching your child's team, you need to remember that you're the parent. Shout words of encouragement, not directions, from the sidelines (there is a difference!).If you are your kid's coach, don't expect too much out of your own child. Don't be harder on him or her than on anyone else on the team, but don't play favorites either.Keep your comments positive. Don't bad-mouth coaches, players, or game officials. If you have a serious concern about the way that games or practices are being conducted, or if you're upset about other parents' behavior, discuss it privately with the coach or with a league official.After a competition, it's important not to dwell on who won or lost. Instead, try asking, "How did you feel you did during the game?" If your child feels weak at a particular skill, like throwing or catching, offer to work on it together before the next game.Applaud good plays no matter who makes them.Set a good example with your courteous behavior toward the parents of kids on the other team. Congratulate them when their kids win.Remember that it's your kids, not you, who are playing. Don't push them into a sport because it's what you enjoyed. As kids get older, let them choose what sports they want to play and decide the level of commitment they want to make.Keep your perspective. It's just a game. Even if the team loses every game of the season, it's unlikely to ruin your child's life or chances of success.Look for examples of good sportsmanship in professional athletes and point them out to your kids. Talk about the bad examples, too, and why they upset you.Finally, don't forget to have fun. Even if your child isn't the star, enjoy the game while you're thinking of all the benefits your child is gaining — new skills, new friends, and attitudes that can help all through life.Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: October 2008
Originally reviewed by: Steve Sanders, PhD
Monday, April 18, 2011
PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE
Child abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse
might be most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse or
child neglect, also leave deep, long lasting scars. Some signs of child
abuse are subtler than others. Since April is National Child Abuse
Awareness Month, the experts of Children's Hospital want to remind you
of the importance of recognizing and reporting abuse of any kind.
"By learning common types of abuse and what you can do, you can make a
huge difference in a child's life," says Deb Schneider, director of
Children's Hospital Intervention and Prevention Services, or the CHIPS
Center at Children's Hospital. "The earlier abused children get help,
the greater chance they have to heal from their abuse and not perpetuate
the cycle."
The four types of child abuse are:
* Physical Abuse
* Sexual Abuse
* Emotional Abuse
* Neglect
In Alabama, one in six kids are physically abused every year and as many
as 25 percent of children will be sexually abused by the time they reach
age 18. Physical abuse is the leading cause of death under the age of 3.
Neglect remains the highest reported form of abuse in our state.
The signs of child abuse vary depending on the type of abuse, but there
are some common indicators:
Warning signs of emotional abuse in children:
* Excessively withdrawn, fearful, or anxious about doing something
wrong.
* Shows extremes in behavior (extremely compliant or extremely
demanding; extremely passive or extremely aggressive).
* Doesn't seem to be attached to the parent or caregiver.
* Acts either inappropriately adult (taking care of other
children) or inappropriately infantile (rocking, thumb-sucking,
tantrums).
Warning signs of physical abuse in children
* Frequent injuries or unexplained bruises, welts, or cuts.
* Is always watchful and "on alert," as if waiting for something
bad to happen.
* Injuries appear to have a pattern such as marks from a hand or
belt.
* Shies away from touch, flinches at sudden movements, or seems
afraid to go home.
* Wears inappropriate clothing to cover up injuries, such as
long-sleeved shirts on hot days.
Warning signs of neglect in children
* Clothes are ill-fitting, filthy, or inappropriate for the
weather.
* Hygiene is consistently bad (unbathed, matted and unwashed hair,
noticeable body odor).
* Untreated illnesses and physical injuries.
* Is frequently unsupervised or left alone or allowed to play in
unsafe situations and environments.
* Is frequently late or missing from school.
Warning signs of sexual abuse in children
* Trouble walking or sitting.
* Displays knowledge or interest in sexual acts inappropriate to
his or her age, or even seductive behavior.
* Makes strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an
obvious reason.
* Doesn't want to change clothes in front of others or participate
in physical activities.
Fortunately, help for Alabama's abused children is available at The
CHIPS Center. The CHIPS Center provides forensic medical evaluations,
psychosocial assessments, play therapy, counseling for non-offending
caregivers and other support services. All services are free, thanks to
the generosity of the Alabama Forestry Association and Alabama Loggers
Council, which donate approximately $250,000 to the clinic each year
through Log-A-Load For Kids.
If you suspect a child has been or is being abused, it is imperative
that you contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources, or you can
call the CHIPS Center at Children's Hospital by dialing 205.558.2751.
For more information, please visit www.chsys.org.
might be most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse or
child neglect, also leave deep, long lasting scars. Some signs of child
abuse are subtler than others. Since April is National Child Abuse
Awareness Month, the experts of Children's Hospital want to remind you
of the importance of recognizing and reporting abuse of any kind.
"By learning common types of abuse and what you can do, you can make a
huge difference in a child's life," says Deb Schneider, director of
Children's Hospital Intervention and Prevention Services, or the CHIPS
Center at Children's Hospital. "The earlier abused children get help,
the greater chance they have to heal from their abuse and not perpetuate
the cycle."
The four types of child abuse are:
* Physical Abuse
* Sexual Abuse
* Emotional Abuse
* Neglect
In Alabama, one in six kids are physically abused every year and as many
as 25 percent of children will be sexually abused by the time they reach
age 18. Physical abuse is the leading cause of death under the age of 3.
Neglect remains the highest reported form of abuse in our state.
The signs of child abuse vary depending on the type of abuse, but there
are some common indicators:
Warning signs of emotional abuse in children:
* Excessively withdrawn, fearful, or anxious about doing something
wrong.
* Shows extremes in behavior (extremely compliant or extremely
demanding; extremely passive or extremely aggressive).
* Doesn't seem to be attached to the parent or caregiver.
* Acts either inappropriately adult (taking care of other
children) or inappropriately infantile (rocking, thumb-sucking,
tantrums).
Warning signs of physical abuse in children
* Frequent injuries or unexplained bruises, welts, or cuts.
* Is always watchful and "on alert," as if waiting for something
bad to happen.
* Injuries appear to have a pattern such as marks from a hand or
belt.
* Shies away from touch, flinches at sudden movements, or seems
afraid to go home.
* Wears inappropriate clothing to cover up injuries, such as
long-sleeved shirts on hot days.
Warning signs of neglect in children
* Clothes are ill-fitting, filthy, or inappropriate for the
weather.
* Hygiene is consistently bad (unbathed, matted and unwashed hair,
noticeable body odor).
* Untreated illnesses and physical injuries.
* Is frequently unsupervised or left alone or allowed to play in
unsafe situations and environments.
* Is frequently late or missing from school.
Warning signs of sexual abuse in children
* Trouble walking or sitting.
* Displays knowledge or interest in sexual acts inappropriate to
his or her age, or even seductive behavior.
* Makes strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an
obvious reason.
* Doesn't want to change clothes in front of others or participate
in physical activities.
Fortunately, help for Alabama's abused children is available at The
CHIPS Center. The CHIPS Center provides forensic medical evaluations,
psychosocial assessments, play therapy, counseling for non-offending
caregivers and other support services. All services are free, thanks to
the generosity of the Alabama Forestry Association and Alabama Loggers
Council, which donate approximately $250,000 to the clinic each year
through Log-A-Load For Kids.
If you suspect a child has been or is being abused, it is imperative
that you contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources, or you can
call the CHIPS Center at Children's Hospital by dialing 205.558.2751.
For more information, please visit www.chsys.org.
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