Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, July 16, 1994 TAG: 9407160031
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
The rigorous program will enhance the academic quality of the Roanoke school system, Roanoke School Superintendent Wayne Harris said Friday at a news conference.
The International Baccalaureate is a pre-university course of study for highly motivated students. In it, they take advanced courses, write a research paper and take written and oral examinations to earn college credit. In some cases, students may be admitted to college as sophomores.
The program is recognized worldwide as a measure of academic excellence. William Fleming-Ruffner and Salem High School are two of about 500 secondary schools in the world that have been accepted into the program. About 200 are in the United States.
"It speaks well of our school system. It helps improve our academic standing," said the Rev. Nelson Harris, chairman of the Roanoke School Board. "It increases the value of a diploma for those who earn it."
William Fleming and Ruffner are separate schools, but they are considered one magnet center for the arts and technology.
To be accepted into the program, schools must comply with strict regulations, including being visited by representatives from the International Baccalaureate Organization. Schools must show that they have the faculty and programs to meet the requirements.
Wayne Harris said the academic program at the Fleming-Ruffner magnet school also will be enhanced by a $3.6 million federal grant for computers, high-tech laboratories, videotaping equipment and other educational technology.
The money will be used for the continuing development of global studies, science, engineering and the arts.
Wayne Harris said the money will be used to install a state-of-the-art physics laboratory, a problem-solving laboratory, video production studio, a travel and tourism program, a new performing and visual center and more instructional technology.
Anita Tanner, director of magnet schools, said much of the money will be spent on classroom equipment, including about 200 computers. The schools will buy some lap-top computers that students can take home, she said.
Tanner said some students have their own computers, but others can't afford them. "This is one way to help level the playing field," she said.
Although the baccalaureate and magnet programs are based at William Fleming and Ruffner, they are open to students from all over the Roanoke Valley. The city has 10 magnet schools that offer advanced and specialized programs designed to help end racial isolation by attracting students from all areas.
Coupled with the school system's commitment to upgrade technology, the baccalaureate and magnet programs put Roanoke schools "at the forefront of education that will truly prepare our students for the future," Wayne Harris said.
The baccalaureate program is a two-year course for students in grades 11 and 12. The preparation begins as early as sixth grade, with courses in middle school to help students develop skills in critical thinking and creative thinking. The preparation continues in ninth and 10th grades.
School administrators expect to have at least 14 students in the program's first year.
In addition to passing required academic courses, the students must write a 4,000-word paper on an approved topic and complete 200 hours of community service.
by CNB