Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/239386
Sarasota News Leader January 10, 2014 prepares students for a successful academic career," the release explains. In 2013, Parent University was added to the program, with sessions centering on parenting and workplace skills. "The Eagle Academy program has been recognized by the Aspen Institute, a national think tank based in Washington, D.C., for its two-generational approach to solving the problem of poverty by addressing its effect on student achievement," the release says. Additionally at Alta Vista, "Shirley has emphasized the importance of the arts in a well-rounded education," the release continues. "She enhanced existing fine arts classes and integrated arts strategies to improve student learning in each classroom." Shirley also expanded the volunteer program at Alta Vista, working with school and Page 67 district staff, as well as community residents, to create the Eagles' Nest, "a welcoming yet structured environment for volunteers," the release notes. "This program has served as a district elementary model for other Sarasota County Schools." Further, in October, Alta Vista was recognized by the East Coast Technical Assistance Center, a network of 36 school districts across Florida, "for showing great progress with improving student achievement in a Title I school," the release adds. Title I schools have a high percentage of students living in poverty; over 90 percent of Alta Vista students receive free or reduced-cost meals. The school was cited for "exceeding expectations on academic indicators when compared to other schools with similar characteristic and populations," the release points out. STUDENTS INVITED TO PROGRAM ON HEALTH PROFESSION CAREERS On Friday, Jan. 17, at 3 p.m., the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Dental Medicine — located at 4800 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. in Bradenton — will host a Health Professions Career Awareness Program. to prepare for admission to a variety of medical schools, a news release says. Additionally, representatives from LECOM's College of Medicine, School of Pharmacy and School of Dental Medicine will offer presentations and answer any questions students and parents may have, the release continues. The This event is designed to help answer high doors will open at 3 p.m., with the program school students' questions regarding medi- scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. cal, dental, pharmacy and veterinary medical To sign up for the program, visit the LECOM's schools, as well as other health-related proHealth Professions Career Awareness fessional schools, LECOM has announced. website. From 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., a panel of students Seating is limited, so those planning to attend representing all of LECOM's schools will are urged to fill out the online form. For more answer questions about "what they did" and information, email Dr. Kersten Schroeder at "wish they would have done" in high school kschroeder@lecom.edu.