"Guess what, class, we just got another one!" College Preparation teacher Nancy Vandenburg says, barely controlling her excitement. "Brett got accepted to St. Bonaventure University." The entire class immediately starts applauding and congratulating him. Vandenburg is quick to get out the tape so he can add his acceptance letter to the ever-expanding Acceptance Wall. The scene is a welcomed regular occurrence in the new College Prep class at Brockport High School. I feel like the proud parent, every time I hear my students great news," said Vandenburg. Some students have already received several acceptance letters since the class began in September. Other students have focused more on the SAT test and have just recently sent out their college applications. In all cases, the students are working toward the common goal of getting accepted to their choice school. During the semester course students learn about what colleges look for and how to write college essays and complete the application process. They can work on increasing their SAT scores by taking practice tests, research colleges and scholarships, and find out when their paperwork should be submitted. Students learn important terminology including early decision, early action and early notification, all while earning a half credit. For Jack Flechaus, taking this class was an easy decision. "It's like getting paid for something you need to do anyway," he said. Jack said he is indebted to his teacher and this class. "I don't know what I would do if it weren't for this class," he said. "There was so much she (Mrs. Vandenburg) told us that first day of class that I had no idea was part of the application process. My parents wouldn't have known either." Jack took all the advice and ran with it, sending applications out to St. Bonaventure, Fredonia State, Cortland University, Lander University, and Buffalo State all by mid-October. He's quite pleased that he has been accepted to three of those schools so far, including his top two choices. Since Jack completed his applications early, he's had plenty of time to research and apply for scholarships utilizing the school's career center. Time is of the essence, and a big part of the appeal of this new class. Students are busy and it makes time for something they are required to do anyway, while getting the direction and instruction they need throughout the daunting process. "I just love the excitement on students' faces when they bring their college acceptance letters to me first thing in the morning," Vandenburg said. "They are so excited and so proud of themselves, and I am, too." In January a new course begins for juniors who are planning on going to college. They will prepare for the SAT using the on-line SAT course, research colleges, get references for college applications, discuss college visits over the summer, learn about financial aid, scholarships and grants. They will also fill out college applications, write essays and receive visits from college admission guest speakers and college students. Starting in January, students can also sign up for classes for the 2007-2008 school year. Even though the semester for seniors is about to end, Vandenburg has an open door for her students and encourages them to stop by with questions and, more importantly, to share their good news. December 17, 2006 |
