SCHEDULE PICK-UPS AND OTHER IMPORTANT DATES
EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTERS SET TO OPEN
BROKEN ARROW PAC CELEBRATES FIFTH SEASON
welcome
BACK
NEW SCHOOL YEAR KICKS OFF
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF BROKEN ARROW PUBLIC SCHOOLS | VOLUME 39, ISSUE ONE | BACK TO SCHOOL 2013
Publisher Communications Department Broken Arrow Public Schools Editing/Content/Photography Tara Thompson Public Information Officer Layout/Design/Photography Adam J. Foreman Graphic Artist/Publications Specialist Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jarod Mendenhall Board of Education Cheryl Kelly, President Steve Allen, Vice President Jerry Denton, Clerk Steve Majors, Deputy Clerk Dr. Theresa Williamson, Member The ARROWPOINT is published six times a year by the Communications Department of Broken Arrow Public Schools and is distributed to approximately 45,000 households in the Broken Arrow school district. The ARROWPOINT is printed at Printed Products, Inc., and is the official communication tool for parents, students, staff and patrons of Broken Arrow Public Schools. Any information, content and photos contained herein are property of Broken Arrow Schools and are to be used by outside sources only with permission of the Communications Department. All contents are copyrighted. Broken Arrow Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status or age in its employment, programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Broken Arrow Public Schools will take all necessary steps to ensure that each school and work place in the District is free from unlawful discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status or age. The following people within the District have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination issues and concerns: • The Chief Human Resources Officer, Ed Fager, should be contacted for all non-student and/or employment related issues at 918-259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012; • The Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Amy Fichtner, should be contacted for all student issues related to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, at 918-259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012; • The Director of Special Education, Carol Gruben, should be contacted for all student issues related to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA), at 918259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012; • The Assistant Athletic Director, Rusty Stecker, should be contacted for all student issues related to Title IX, of the Education Amendments of 1972, at 918-259-4310 or at 1901 E. Albany, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
A few words from the desk of Dr. Jarod Mendenhall
WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL
Important information for you and your child to know
6-7 8 9 10-11 BEGINNING EARLY
With several new Early Childhood Centers opening this school year, Broken Arrow is on the edge of innovation
EARNING OUR STRIPES
Catch up on the accomplishments that continue to put BAPS at the forefront of education
EXCELERATE PROGRAM
Students are getting ahead of the curve by earning college credits while still in high school
SPOTLIGHT SERIES
Celebrating its fifth year, the Broken Arrow PAC promises a stellar season
Inquiries concerning non-discrimination can also be made to the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Broken Arrow Public Schools Education Service Center 701 South Main Street Broken Arrow, OK 74012 (918) 259-5700 | F: (918) 258-0399 www.baschools.org
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MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
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CONTENTS
BROKEN ARROW PUBLIC SCHOOLS VOLUME 39, ISSUE 1 | BACK TO SCHOOL 2013
BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL FEB. 18, 2014
.D. denhall, Ed Jarod Men ls t of Schoo Superintenden
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {3}
of e a number ference wher district will on C ls oo Sch our ional Model ile I believe ow tend the nat nation. Wh at Broken Arr e to e. th e ad ss at m ro e un ac rt av h fo om e as fr w w s ss I or er, ucat prog re This summ ented by ed oud of the ge eight. s to cs were pres also very pr pi about on pa to am e I ad at continue , iv re g at n in ov ca ov u inn pr yo im one area th h , ic at h ct this k w ri or of st w of e di e pl to r m d ou am so ident in recent ex of areas, always nee ev r A . be ts on en um ti n w ca em a Edu prov e in sts or ere leads the stat ardless of the many im the State Department of able to access online te net g un were intendent Ja ship from However, re of students , State Super ls ia ck of leader ds oo la n ed e ch sa m S th e c ou li is th th e ub Arrow P mments to e in which n frustrate m co cl ke ba er ro h de to B r g In ed . fo in epar e test reality the test more than pr testing was the stat hile taking ess, but the onnected w e astructure is y preparedn sc fr th og di in h ol it y n ly w ch og ed ed at te ol repe ction rest our techn ls’ lack of n is oo fu h – al sc m e ers from e at ed ak st th -t of test urce of Barresi blam er districts across the ing. The so igh volume h st te e h e th ot n t li y os an on h to – and m e required r not prepared complete th e are a numbe , which was l) il successfully H w ch year. Ther e ra ea eg cG ll en co dr -M il g B n T ch ri measu upon our of d company (C e le os pi rp ? ts pu en ew n e ting for th assessm state. be utilized stead of crea around the e volume of d in th s ul e st is co g te th at e in e th es at av e h tr ot use th y in us s? We Equally frus few. Why n that proces tools alread a le t in e ab en ed am en m n lv l ss il vo to se w CT be in that of proven as ORE and A assessment n’t teachers this LAN, EXPL method of ents, should a m ers to make t ss ad en se le as em e readiness: P pl at ew st n im r d te ou ea an cr of p t t or velo mus and the supp And if we needed to de asked a the funding d expertise d an ee y n e og w ol t n respectfully bu d , tech n an io es at n su e is has their these lead th vendor, why udents , I broached our state to g th in on st m te t y. st it la en rr nt real ill st with the cu possibility a Superintende collected? W ultiple issues test data that has been portantly, to our State m im e er t tt th le os en a m iv d In ions? An estions. G the flawed ct h qu n it fu w er ad yet to al h e h n m ot I e do printed, ite of th at will be as number of h sp w W in e ? s in lt ed az su ew ag m ren ese re the time this contract been evaluated based on th se for kids? At be st s be er ’s ers who refu h at ac h te w and by state lead s to doing ct ed ri ck at st ba tr di o us g en fr e h ubles w creasingly do when do w in ly w , on ro cs n g ti li io . I onse oma, the po e frustrat receive a resp her educators in Oklah to put aside le reforms. Th ib e ss th ed n r, po an fa it pl o ot a? S orly set. Is Like many to initiate po htly predicted at the on the children of Oklahom nce in the d continue g de r fi ri an n fo ey co en st th st be of li es is to wing lack do what r the failur ro y fo g pl a m ed e si ts can work it am d n sp bl re an are then s and pa “no.” Yet de or aboration, ll at g n co uc di c ed ti un at en so th a re nt th engage in au appears to be Education, I am confide is question th of t to en er a. tm sw ar om an ep klah the State D ucation in O leadership of tively reform public ed posi together to
{2013-2014}
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {4}
Aug. 19-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Professional Days Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . Elem. Meet Your Teacher, 4-6 p.m. Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . ECC Meet Your Teacher, 5-7 p.m. Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . .AlternativeAcademy Orientation Aug. 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day Of School Sept. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Labor Day Sept. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School Open Houses Sept. 10 . . . . Intermediate High Open Houses Sept. 12 . . . . . . Senior High School Open House Sept. 12 . . . . . . . . . . MHP Open House Sept. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Professional Day Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of First Nine Weeks Oct. 17-18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fall Break Nov. 27-29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thanksgiving Break Dec. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Semester Ends Dec. 23-Jan. 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Winter Break Jan. 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Second Semester Begins Jan. 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb. 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Presidents’ Day Feb. 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Professional Day March 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Third Nine Weeks March 17-21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Break May 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class of 2014 Graduation May 23. . . . . . . . . . . . Tentative Last Day of School May 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memorial Day
BACK TO SCHOOL DATES MIDDLE SCHOOL • August 14, 2013, Noon to 6 p.m. 7th & 8th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • August 15, 2013, Noon to 6 p.m. 6th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • August 15, 2013, 6 p.m. Middle School Parent Orientation INTERMEDIATE HIGH • August 14, 2013, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 9th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • August 15, 2013, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 10th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • September 10, 2013, 6 p.m. Intermediate High Open Houses SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL • August 14, 2013, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 11th and 12th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • August 15, 2013, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 11th and 12th Grade Schedule Pick-Up • September 12, 2013, 6 p.m. Senior High Open House MARGARET HUDSON PROGRAM • September 12, 2013, 6 p.m. Open House BA ACADEMY • August 20, 2013, 6 p.m. Orientation ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS • August 20, 2013 Meet Your Teacher
welcome
BAC
With school starting Aug. 22, get the y started right with news and informatio
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ith the first day of school fast approaching, Broken Arrow Public Schools is excited to welcome students and parents back into the fold with exciting new changes, upcoming events and familiar programs. CHILD NUTRITION As a participant in the National School Lunch Program, BAPS offers free and reduced rates on breakfast and lunch for students of families that meet certain income guidelines. Students who wish to participate in the program must re-enroll for the 2013-2014 school year by filling out an application, which is available at each school site. In addition, parents may fill out Free/Reduced applications online at www.baschools.org. Applicaitons for the 2013-2014 school year are due by Oct. 4, 2013. On this date, the students that were on free and reduced lunches for the 2012-2013 school year will be cut off the program if a new application has not be processed. Online payments for school meals will continue this year with MySchoolBucks. com. Parents may visit the website to set up a child’s account, as long as they have their child’s student ID number. Each transaction results in a $1.95 fee. On the site, parents may see their child’s balance, view purchase history and sign up for email notifications if balances become low. Although a great option for parents, the online system is not required as parents may still send money with students for lunch and breakfast purchases. The BAPS Child Nutrition Department makes every effort to accommodate special dietary needs. In order to do so, BAPS Child Nutrition must have documentation for the special dietary need from a licensed
physician. An assessment of the dietary needs must be made by the physician and an original copy of the assessment must be on file with the Child Nutrition Department. Questions regarding free and reduced applications, online meal payments and special dietary needs can be directed to the Child Nutrition Department at (918) 2594565. BEFORE & AFTER CARE B&A Connections, the before and after care program for Broken Arrow Schools, is still accepting enrollments for the 2013-2014 school year. The B&A Connections planned curriculum reflects both the developmental interests of children in grades prekindergarten through fifth grade and the opportunity for children within these age groups to play and learn from one another. Key elements of the program include social and emotional development, physical development, intellectual development and a warm and caring staff. Children who participate in B&A Connections during the academic year are provided breakfast during the Before School Program and a snack during the After School Program. The B&A Connections office is located at 210 North Main Street at Central On Main and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pre-kindergarten before OR after care is $145 per month per child. Pre-kindergarten before AND after care is $265 per month per child. Kindergarten – fifth grade before OR after care is $130 per month per child. Kindergarten – fifth grade before AND after care is $225 per month per child. Additionally, there is an annual registration fee of $40 per family. For specific information about your child’s school, contact the B&A Connections office at (918) 259-7413.
CK
year on
DIRECTORY INFORMATION The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act allows a district to designate certain student data as directory
information. Broken Arrow Public Schools has designated “directory information” to include a student’s name, parents’ names, address and telephone listing, date and place of birth, class designation (i.e., first grade, tenth grade, etc.), extracurricular participation, achievement awards or honors, dates of attendance, weight and height, photograph, as well as the school or school district the student attended before he/she enrolled in Broken Arrow schools. BAPS will continue to disclose student directory information for the purposes of printing student names in yearbooks, honor rolls, athletic programs and publications. Parents or eligible students should advise the school district in a letter to the Public Information Officer of any or all of the items they refuse to permit the district to designate as directory information about that student. The designation will remain in effect until it is modified by the written direction of the student’s parent or the eligible student. CHILD FIND NOTICE This notice is to inform parents that Broken Arrow Public schools is maintaining an ongoing Child Find search to locate, identify and evaluate any child age 3-21 with an established or suspected disability. Child Find efforts include all individuals age 3-21 not enrolled in school, as well as those who attend public and private schools, Head Start, state institutions, and other child care or treatment facilities. Children not of school age must reside in the boundaries of Broken Arrow Public Schools to be included in the Child Find efforts. Broken Arrow Public Schools has
established and maintains a comprehensive screening and multidisciplinary referral, evaluation, and eligibility process for the identification of children with suspected disabilities. Child Find activities contain a mandate for public awareness of contact, location and established screening procedures. Information regarding evaluation procedures is available at no cost to parent/guardian upon request by contacting Broken Arrow Public Schools at the Educational Service Center, Special Services, 701 N. Main Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Phone contact is available at 918-259-5700. As mandated by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, Broken Arrow Public Schools is required to fully inform parents that personally identifiable information is maintained on all children who are referred and evaluated under the provisions of Child Find. The types of information sought may include but not limited to: Parent concerns, developmental, adaptive behavior, socialcultural, health/medical, vision, hearing, motor, perceptual/processing, behavior, psychological, vocational and information gained through observations in the classroom or other environments. It is the responsibility of the Broken Arrow Public Schools to inform parents/ guardians of their rights under the Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Should you have any questions please contact Carol Gruben at 918-259-5700.
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {5}
PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW In accordance with the No Child Left Behind Act, parents have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct their children. Federal law allows parents to ask for certain information about their children’s classroom teachers, and requires schools to give parents this information in a timely manner if requested. Specifically, parents have the right to ask for the following information about their children’s classroom teachers: 1. Whether Oklahoma State Department of Education has licensed or qualified the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teaches, 2. Whether Oklahoma State Department of Education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualifies under state regulations because of special or emergency circumstances, 3. The teacher’s baccalaureate degree major: whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and, if so, the subject of the degrees, graduate certification, and field of discipline, and 4. Whether any teachers’ aides or similar paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications. Additionally, parents will be notified if their students have been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher that is not highly qualified. To receive any of this information, please contact Celia M. Armstrong, Director of Human Resources, at (918) 259-5700.
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {6}
BEGINNING
EARLY New Early Childhood Centers set the foundation for students
reopen as an Early Childhood Center in August of 2014. This site will make creative use of colors and architectural elements to give life to its underwater theme. “I was pleased at the opportunity our teachers were given to work with construction staff in designing the perfect facilities,” said Creekwood Early Childhood Center Principal Teresa Bowker. “Through collaboration, we have beautiful facilities that are also highly functional for the everyday needs of teaching four-year-olds.” More than 900 students have enrolled in one of the three Pre-K programs, but a small number of enrollments are still open. For more information about Pre-K enrollment, contact the Enrollment Center at 918-259-4301.
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {7}
Y
I
n 2010, the patrons of Broken Arrow voted to reallocate $73.5 million dollars of the original $295 million ASPEN CREEK EARLY CHILDHOOD bond passed in 2009. This reallocation of CENTER WILL OPEN IN AUGUST. dollars has made possible the opening of three new Early Childhood Centers just in time for the 2013-2014 school year. “The Early Childhood Learning Philosophy of Broken Arrow Public Schools is designed to address the needs of the whole child by guiding their cognitive, social, emotional, physical and creative development,” said Superintendent Dr. Jarod Mendenhall. “This is accomplished through a variety of teaching strategies including purposeful play, differentiated instruction and a stimulating curriculum that will actively engage all students.” Each of the Early Childhood Centers will house only Pre-K students, typically of the 4-5 year age range. Early Classrooms will be equipped Childhood with an Early Childhood Center Hours Certified teacher, a full(All four sites) time teaching aide, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.- Office Open and no more than 20 8:15 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.- Student Arrival students per class. 2:20 p.m. to 2:50 p.m.- Dismissal/Pick up Educators at the Early Childhood • Breakfast and lunch will be available to all Centers will Pre-K students daily. utilize a number of strategies to and body,” • Before & After School Care is available help these firstsaid Park at each of the three open Early Childhood time students Lane Early Centers, but this is a tuition-based program. develop a solid Childhood For more information, call the learning foundation. C e n t e r B&A Connections Teachers will assist Principal Barbara Office at 918-259-7413. students in developing their Jones. “Most of the early reasoning and problem students who enroll solving skills, and they will also have opted for the full-day begin instruction in maintaining focus program, and time to rest will be an and seeking assistance from others when important part of their schedule.” working on a task. Parent involvement Three of the district’s four Early will also be a critical component of Childhood Centers will open in August, student success. and while similar in many ways, each “Our program is designed to be a facility has its own distinct look. collaborative effort involving parents, Creekwood Early Childhood Center is students and teachers, and by working located at 1301 E. Albany St., west of as a team, I have no doubt that we will the High School, and the colors and be successful in our mission to create a décor of this facility are a celebration of foundation for life-long learning in our Oklahoma’s western heritage. Toward the youngest Broken Arrow Tigers,” said southern boundary of the district, Aspen Aspen Creek Early Childhood Center Creek Early Childhood Center is located Principal Julie Gateley. at 2700 W. Florence and utilizes cool In addition to the high-quality colors and shapes in its outer space theme. instruction provided on a daily basis, a Park Lane Early Childhood Center was variety of other activities will take place once Park Lane Elementary, but has since at all four Early Childhood Centers. transformed into an Early Childhood “Aside from instructional time in Center with a park theme that celebrates the classroom, students will also be both its name and the beauty found in introduced to art and music, gross motor nature. activities such as outdoor play, fine motor The fourth Early Childhood Center development during learning center time will be located on the site of the former and brain breaks, which are designed to Arrow Springs Elementary. This facility allow students time to rest their mind is currently under construction, and will
Did You Know? 67% of students in a Pre-K program had an IQ more than 90, versus only 28% without Pre-K. 65% of students enrolled in Pre-K graduated high school, versus only 45% without Pre-K. Source:The High/Scope Perry Preschool Study Through Age 40 | Center For Public Education
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {8}
A
EARNING OUR
s a patron of Broken Arrow Public Schools, it’s likely you are already aware of the many great things the students and staff accomplish each and every day at sites throughout the district. But what about your neighbors who don’t have children in school, family members who live out of town or business acquaintances looking for a place to relocate – do they know about the great things Broken Arrow Public Schools has to only at logon. Research is currently being offer? This feature, “Earning Our Stripes,” conducted on the feasibility of spanning is designed to equip you with brief bits of the entire 114 sq. mile district with information you can use to educate others the wireless network in order to serve on why Broken Arrow Public Schools students at their homes. continues to “earn stripes” in its mission • Class Size – By monitoring classroom to be one of Oklahoma’s premier public counts the first few weeks of school, school districts. district leadership has developed a strategy • Rachel’s Challenge – This for quickly adjusting staff to better meet internationally recognized character the needs of students. Broken Arrow’s education program has been fully class sizes are the lowest in Tulsa County: implemented for three years and reaches grades K-2=22 students, grades 3-5=23 students in grades Pre-K through 12. students, and grades 6-12=27 students Rachel’s Challenge embraces kindness during the 2013-2014 school year. and compassion as the cornerstones of behavior while reinforcing the idea of starting positive chain reactions. Based on the district’s extensive implementation of the program, Dr. Mendenhall was named as the Superintendent of the Year for Rachel’s Challenge in 2012. • Construction – Since 2010, the district has built or renovated 26 buildings • Kristin Chenoweth Theater – Last summer, the across the district, nearly Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center Theater was named eliminating all 208 for the famous Broadway actress and movie star, Kristin portable classrooms and Chenoweth, who is also a 1986 Broken Arrow High School replacing them with stategraduate. She was in Broken Arrow in July, 2012 to accept of-the-art, permanent this award and distinction after performing in the theater facilities. By the year that has been named in her honor. 2015 the district will have completed more than $240 Million of construction, completely • Higher Education Reimbursement changing the look of Broken Arrow Program – Last year, for the first time Public Schools. in district history, Broken Arrow Public • Technology – Ahead of most school Schools began offering a Higher Education districts, Broken Arrow Public Schools Reimbursement Program to all full-time, has implemented a wireless network that certified employees. The program provides covers all 25 school sites in addition to reimbursement to certified personnel all district departments. The network enrolled in an accredited institution taking features three types of secure login courses in his or her area of work. Thus options, making Broken Arrow the first far, there have been 93 reimbursements for district in the nation to have a keyless Wia total of $78,590.80, and district leaders Fi system based on network credentials are planning a survey to gauge support
District Vision Statement:
STRIPES
Educating Today - Leading Tomorrow
employee interest in a similar program. • Subway Franchise – In August of 2012, the Broken Arrow High School Cafeteria was the first school in Oklahoma to open its own Subway Franchise. The modified sandwiches meet with the nutritional guidelines required in schools, and all students are eligible to select Subway as a meal option. Since the implementation of Subway at the High School, the program has since expanded to North and South Intermediates. • STEM – A Science Technology Engineering and Math program was introduced at Rhoades Elementary during the 2012-2013 school year. The STEM class is part of the students’ rotation of classes (ex. Art, music, PE and STEM) so that all students are able to experience the hands-on learning environment. After a successful pilot year, the program is being expanded to Arrowhead Elementary. • Literacy First – In 2011, the district implemented Literacy First – a research based literacy process that has proven most effective in increasing literacy rates among all students. The program encompasses Pre-K through 8th grade as a comprehensive, cumulative method for bringing all students to a high level of reading and writing achievement. • Reading Recovery Program – This intense literacy intervention program targets first grade students reading at two years or more below their peers. It is based on more than a decade of international research that has shown it to be the only universally effective way to intervene in early literacy. Made possible through a partnership with Texas Women’s University, the Reading Recovery Program utilizes a reading lab both to host one-onone instructional sessions with students and train teachers in the expansion of the program throughout the district. These are just a few of the accomplishments and accolades that give you – a patron of Broken Arrow Public Schools – a better idea of how our district is earning its stripes. A new list will be featured in the October issue of Arrowpoint Magazine, so stay tuned for the next printing of “Earning Our Stripes.”
Planned Course Offerings
(Students will select two courses each semester)
Fall 2013
Academic Strategies* English Composition I English Composition II College Algebra Speech Communications I World Geography Introduction to Psychology Nutrition Art Appreciation American Federal Government Humanities I Ancient & Medieval Western Civilization
Spring 2014
English Composition I English Composition II College Algebra Speech Communications I World Geography Introduction to Psychology Nutrition Art Appreciation American Federal Government Humanities II Modern Western Civilization *Academic Strategies will be required for students who want to continue in the Tulsa Achieves program after high school
receiving both high school credit and college credit at a reduced cost. “This early college exposure will offer our students the opportunity to see what college classes are like and to get a jump start on their college plans,” said High School Principal Debbie Renz. “It may also serve to help first generation college students see themselves as viable college students without a major financial obligation.” Courses will be held at NSU-BA, and the BAPS district will provide transportation to and from the NSUBA campus. The cost of enrolling in EXCELerate is $73.50 per semester for two classes, and the required books are loaned from BAHS to the student at no extra cost. “The NSU-BA campus is easily accessible to our Broken Arrow students and provides less congestion from traffic,” Renz said. “NSU-BA is a beautiful campus providing exposure to technology, excellent teaching staff and academic supports that any college should provide.” The EXCELerate program is available to juniors and seniors, and interested students must first take the ACT. The ACT is offered periodically on the high school campus, and to find out when the next testing period will be available, contact the High School Counseling Office at 918-2594310. To be eligible to participate in EXCELErate, seniors need to score 19 or higher or have a 3.0 GPA, and juniors must score a 21 or higher on the ACT or have a 3.5 GPA. “These minimum requirements will provide a foundation for success for our students wanting to acquire college credit as a high school student,” said Renz. “They serve as an indicator of academic preparedness necessary for success with college-level coursework.” Broken Arrow High School students who participate in the EXCELerate program will actually be enrolled at TCC, even though the courses will be held at NSU-BA. Interested students will need to meet with their counselor
to obtain necessary EXCELerate paperwork and receive assistance in applying online to TCC. Students will also need to request that a copy of their high school transcript be sent to TCC. “This program will allow our students the opportunity to be in control of their education, to provide some flexible options, and to experience learning at a college level,” Renz said. “It will help them see what kind of work ethic is necessary for college. Ultimately, I hope it can build confidence for our students in their ability to be successful in college.”
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {9}
roken Arrow High School is excited to announce the beginning of a new program that will allow BAHS students to earn college credit while still in high school. Known as EXCELerate, this program is made possible through an alliance between Broken Arrow Public Schools, Tulsa Community College and NSUBA. Through this program, students can attend college courses during the school day through TCC at NSU-BA,
EXCELerate
Students can earn college credit while in high school B
basking in the
SPOTLIGHT
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {10}
B
BAPAC celebrates fifth annivers
ringing the world to Broken Arrow has been the mission of the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center since its opening five years ago. And to celebrate five years of world-class entertainment, the 201314 Spotlight Series is bringing eight unique shows to the stage this season, guaranteeing a season full of surprises. The Spotlight Series, presented by AVB Bank, is also sponsored by the Broken Arrow Convention and Visitors Bureau, First National Bank of Broken Arrow, TTCU The Credit Union and Cox Communications. The series kicks off on Sept. 21 with the legendary Sandi Patty as she presents “Broadway Stories;” Oct. 24 will see two amazing performers on one stage as piano virtuoso Bruce Hornsby teams up with mandolin maestro Ricky Skaggs; Oct. 26 will bring double the fun with comedian Sinbad and acapella legends Take 6; it will be a “fab” night on Nov. 22 with the Beatles tribute “Rain;” Dec. 15 marks the fourth appearance of David Phelps as he celebrates Christmas; Jan. 24 kicks off the new year with The Ten Tenors; Feb. 18 sees the Oklahoma debut of the new Broadway smash “Bring It On: The Musical;” and the season closes out on
Apr. 22 with the Tony-winning Best Musical “Memphis.” “It’s been some of the most rewarding years of my life, and I know the people of Broken Arrow and abroad will see this season as a hallmark of pure talent and excitement,” said Mark Frie, BAPAC Executive Director. “Every year, we do our best to bring a wide array of entertainment to our stage, hoping to present a little something for everyone. I think we truly did it with this line-up.” For more information about each show, season tickets and other programs offered at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center, visit brokenarrowpac.com, or call the Box Office at (918) 259-5778. ABOUT EACH SHOW: • She’s won 39 Dove Awards, five Grammy Awards, four Billboard Music Awards and became a Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee in 2004. Her albums have sold more than 11 million units, garnering her three platinum and five gold recordings. As the most awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music history, her voice is still the gold standard by which all who follow are measured. Now, Sandi Patty returns to her roots with her soaring
“RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES” WILL SEE THE FAB FOUR TAKE OVER THE BAPAC ON NOV. 22.
soprano v o i c e as she shares “Broadway Stories,” a walk through the Great White Way and everything it has to offer. From Sondheim to Hammerstein (and everything in between), Sandi delivers the goods in the signature vocal style that has made her a legend. • Virginia cool meets Kentucky thunder in a quintessential collaboration between multiinstrumentalist virtuoso Ricky Skaggs and genrebending pianist Bruce Hornsby. Combined, the pair lay claim to an astonishing 15 Grammy awards. They first collaborated on a track for a Bill Monroe tribute album and went on to record an entire album together in 2007. The New York Times praised the depth of the
“MEMPHIS: THE MUS WHICH WON THE 2012 T FOR BEST MUSICAL CLOSE OUT THE SEASO APR. 22
“BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL” SEES THE HIT MOVIE TRANSFORM INTO A STAGE SHOW WITH AERIAL STUNTS AND AMAZING DANCE ON FEB. 18, 2014.
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sary with stellar season infectious as it is transporting. From the early hits to later classics (I Want To Hold Your Hand, Hard Day’s Night, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Let It Be, Come Together, Hey Jude and more), this adoring tribute will take you back to a time when all you needed was love and a little help from your friends! • Back by popular demand for an incredible FOURTH appearance, David Phelps has been a staple of the BAPAC since the beginning, this time presenting a Christmas concert for the ages! Nicknamed “The Voice” for his otherworldly tenor-range pipes, Phelps has made a name for himself not only as a solo artist, but also as part of the legendary Gaither Vocal Band. Phelps will take you through his endless string of hit songs as well as holiday favorites, past and present. • All the way from Down Under, The Ten Tenors shot to international fame during a guest spot on Oprah Winfrey and haven’t stopped since. Amidst incredible international success, this Australian troupe has become known as one of the hardest working touring acts; performing an average of 250 shows per year across seven continents, they have sold over 3.5 million concert tickets; have four gold CDs and two platinum, two gold DVDs and one platinum and continually strive to challenge themselves and their audience. • Bitingly relevant and sprinkled with sass, BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL inspired by the “Bring It On” film, takes you on a high-flying journey through friendship, forgiveness and determination. BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL tells the story of the challenges and unexpected bonds formed through the thrill of extreme competition. With a colorful crew of
Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013
RICKY SKAGGS & BRUCE HORNSBY
with Kentucky Thunder Thursday, Oct. 24, 2013
SINBAD & TAKE 6
Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013
RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES Friday, Nov. 22, 2013
DAVID PHELPS CHRISTMAS Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013
THE TEN TENORS Friday, Jan. 24, 2014
BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL
Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2014
MEMPHIS
Tuesday, Apr. 22, 2014
Season tickets on sale now. Call (918) 259-5778 for more information, or visit us online at BROKENARROWPAC.COM. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter! characters, an exciting fresh sound and explosive dance with aerial stunts, this all-new story is sure to be everything you hoped for and nothing like you expected. • From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Inspired by actual events, MEMPHIS is about a radio DJ who wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves– filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll. PLUS–it’s the winner of four 2010 Tony Awards® including Best Musical!
A R R O W P O I N T M A G A Z I N E {11}
SICAL,” TONY L, WILL ON ON 2, 2014.
partnership: “Whether they were playing Mr. Hornsby’s songs or reworking Bill Monroe’s repertory, the arrangements often reached back to Celtic drones and modal fiddle tunes, the sounds of an isolated rural America. With Mr. Hornsby on piano, another Americana also peeked in: the polytonality of Aaron Copland and of modal jazz harmony, which happens to dovetail with those Celtic drones.” In live performance, these pioneering voices of American music showcase the power of their musical connection and their effortless penchant for breaking apart musical categorizations.” • It’s going to be a night of fun, vocal acrobatics and laughter as comedian Sinbad and acapella group Take 6 present a night to remember! Sinbad has been all over the world, including movies and television, discussing everything from fatherhood to family, marriage and the inevitability of aging. Take 6 have honed their craft for more than 20 years, sharpening their Gospel harmonies alongside such talents as Stevie Wonder, Martina McBride, Whitney Houston and Ray Charles. • As “the next best thing to seeing The Beatles!” (Associated Press), RAIN performs the full range of The Beatles’ discography live onstage, including the most complex and challenging songs that The Beatles themselves recorded in the studio but never performed for an audience. In addition, new songs are being included with the launch of the 2013 Tour. Together longer than The Beatles, RAIN has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance that’s as
SANDI PATTY: BROADWAY STORIES
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SMART PHONES- SCAN ME!