BCIT Brief
September 2015, Edition #10
Editor: Mrs. Laura Geltch, Coordinator of Program and Community
BEST of Burlington County!
Mrs. Ally Apgar
Mr. Andre Hodges
Mr. Jay Lloyd
Your hard work, dedication, and expertise is greatly appreciated. Thank you for everything you do to make BCIT the Best of Burlington county.
A Message from your Superintendent
September 2015
Welcome back to school BCIT!
We here at the Burlington County Institute of Technology are extraordinarily excited for the start of this year of renewal. We are honored to pursue our mission on behalf of your children to prepare adolescent and adult students to enter the workforce and/or continue their education. We embrace a vision of college and/or career readiness for all students.
Parents, you have made a wise choice to send your children to BCIT. Career and Technical Education (CTE) works for students. CTE:
Increases graduation rates
Prepares students for career and college
Promotes lifelong learning
Increases earning potential and life prospects
As I enter my 22nd month as your Superintendent of School, I am very pleased about the work our team has accomplished to date; and hopeful about the future. We have spent much time and effort observing and evaluating all aspects of our very complex organization, and taking some important actions to ensure we achieve our mission and realize our vision for our students.
Over the past year plus, our team at BCIT achieved the following within these areas:
District
Restructured our central administration to better serve the district
Entered into a county-shared services agreement to maximize efficiency and the use of taxpayer dollars
Program, Curriculum, and Instruction
Aligned mathematics and language arts programs with Common Core State Standards
Increased the use of technology for instruction
Achieved high CTE pass rates in numerous areas
Created County Career Academies in the areas of Computer and Electrical Engineering, and Performing Arts
Started the implementation of Advanced Placement courses
Designed and installed High Tech Computer Lounges for students on both campuses
Dramatically increased adult education and apprenticeship enrollment
Parent and Community Involvement
Increased parent and community involvement
Re-established presence on WIB and other County groups
Re-established Program Advisory Councils
Improved recruiting, admissions processes, branding and marketing, and outreach programs
Safety and Security
Developed a Security Team to ensure secure campuses
Installed state-of-the art security technology to secure the campuses
Established Safety and Security Task Forces to ensure collaboration with first responders and agencies
Operations
Completed a number of important facilities projects:
- Upgraded facilities for Allied Health, Law and Public Safety, and Performing Arts
- Enhanced safety and security
- Various projects to maintain our buildings and grounds
In the coming year, our primary focus will be the critical work of curriculum, instruction, and assessment, that is teaching and learning. Our specific objectives are to:
Improve the use of data to promote student achievement
Improve students’ reading and literacy skills
Promote the use of math in real-world contexts, specifically within career majors
Enhance school culture
Increase and refine communication with parents/guardians and other stakeholders
Thank you for the opportunity to serve your children and family. We look forward to a positive and productive school year.
Sincerely,
Superintendent of Schools
A letter from Dr. Nagy, Assistant Superintendent for Special Education, BCSSSD & BCIT
September always marks change and it is the sign for the end of the summer. While the weather begins to change, the evening light fades away earlier and earlier, we can look back and say that we have had an active August and September at both Burlington County Institute of Technology Campuses. We have seen an increase in our enrollment at the schools and our Child Study Teams have been busy making sure that students have schedules. Furthermore, additional career major academies such as the Academy of Performing Arts for Vocal and Instrumental Music, Engineering Technology and Agriscience Technology. The other career major that was added over the past year was Electronics and Computer. Efforts have also been made to look at transition options with our BCIT Adult School for our students who want to pursue the trades after attending a BCIT high school.
The first event for the year was our annual Back to School Night held on September 17th, an event that was well attended. Our Child Study Team office appreciated the inquiry from parents and were happy to help. This was a great evening for parents and students to listen to administrators, teachers and related service staff about respective campus programs and opportunities to get involved.
We remind parents who are new to BCIT and our veteran parents, that parents have access to the Genesis Parent Portal, an extension of the student management system. This portal provides an opportunity to engage parents as participants in the monitoring of demographic information, attendance, conduct and grades. All progress reports and report cards will be made available through this portal. It is important to make sure that we have the most current contact information and e-mail for emergencies and to receive important communications from the school. Please note that address changes must be submitted to the Guidance Office.
The week of October 5-9, 2015 marks Respect Week. We have been reminded throughout the recent visit by Pope Francis to the United States to value the family and differences of cultures and heritages all which in themselves enrich the lives of those with whom we come in contact. How true for us in our schools. Various activities in the school throughout this week will remind us of the value of respect as a pillar for a flourishing school environment.
Extraordinary efforts are being made to provide teaching staff, Child Study Team members and teacher assistants professional development and participation in Professional Learning Communities to support the goals and objectives of the district focus and to assure the rigor, relevance and relationship as they pertain to student learning and skill development. In the end, our mission is to support the educational growth and development of those students entrusted to us, and as such, it is an honor and privilege to work with such gifted students.
On behalf of my dedicated administrative team, staff and teacher assistants, I want to wish everyone a great school year.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Nagy
Assistant Superintendent, Special Education
BCIT/BCSSSD Board of Education Policies & Regulations
The following policies and regulations have been approved by the Board of Education. Please review and reference pertinent policies as applicable.
2360 Use of Technology
R2421 Vocational-Technical Instruction
5330 and R5330 Administration of Medication 8820 Opening Exercises/Ceremonies
5615 Suspected Gang Activity
8540 School
5756 R8505.01 R8505.02 5339 R2431.5 R3125.2 Abolished R8540
Nutrition Programs Free and Reduced Rate Meals
Transgender Students
Nutrition and Feeding Safety Protocols (BCSSSD Only) Nutrition and Feeding Questionnaire (BCSSSD Only) Screening for Dyslexia
Athletic Practice Competition Adm Walk Through Process Substitute Coverage SOP (BCSSSD Only)
Free and Reduced Rate Meals
BCIT Varsity boy's Soccer: Medford vs. Westampton
September's Blended Classes Initiative, by Danielle Hartman
Across America, in any college, in any town, students are busy learning foundational and consequential subjects. Unlike the traditional lecture in days of yore, today’s college students are likely to attend classes that are a blend of face-to-face and online meetings. These “blended” or “hybrid” courses allow for learning that is student-led and directed, which can result in deeper understanding. At BCIT in Westampton, high school students have been given the chance to learn a new subject and practice the soft skills so necessary for success in college.
West teachers are piloting three electives this fall, two sections of Human Behavior and one section of Forensic Science. Though the original plan was for two classes, the program was so popular that a third class was added. All three classes are filled to capacity, yet students are still applying for admission. Participating students are issued a Chromebook for their classes, which meet after school once per week for a two hour session and once per week online for an hour. Classes are inquiry-based and student-led. Last week, while teachers were meeting with parents for back-to-school night, students were meeting online to discuss the background, theories, and beliefs of famous psychologists.
Skye Fowler, a junior at BCIT, enrolled in Human Behavior as her interest lies in neuropsychology. She believes that if you can “enhance the time you spend somewhere, you should do that.” Skye’s goal is to get as much out of her high school years as she can. Though the class has seen some minor bumps, mostly due to technical issues, she is enjoying the creativity of the lessons and is excited to delve deeper into what drives human behavior.
Student Kayla Pearson didn’t join until September. She was intrigued because one of her peers was enjoying the experience; unlike Skye, Kayla isn’t sure what she wants to pursue in the future. She plans to explore as many topics as possible until she finds her place. The sensitive topics introduced in this course are captivating for Kayla, and she eagerly anticipates the weightier subjects to come.
The hybrid classes are a win for students and a win for the school community. The ability to extend the school day and pique student interest is invaluable, and staff members are busy planning ways to expand the program in the future.
Burlington County Professional Development Institute (BCPDI)
The Burlington County Professional Development Institute (BCPDI) Advisory Committee met this month, at BCSSSD for their first quarterly meeting.
Thank you to our staff and students who helped facilitate the meeting and escort our guests to the media center.
For more information, contact Mrs. Marie Phillips via email or phone at (609) 234-4879.
Welcome Back to School Students & Staff!
"Knock Knock", with Amos Koffa, BCIT Medford Junior
BCIT Medford Junior, Amos Koffa, is an intriguing young man. I sat down with him to talk about his experiences at Yale, and more importantly, his passions. Amos attended the Yale Summer Program “Explo” for three weeks last summer. Amos spent a significant amount of time researching and applying to this program. Amos received a scholarship to attend among 650 students from all over the world.
In addition to studying acting, directing, and behavior psychology, Amos attended three Broadway shows, ran cross country, and honed his audition skills. "Being given the opportunity to interact with Yale acting students and share space was extraordinary! Everyone was so talented and supportive," said Amos. One of the program's highlights was the opportunity to attend three Broadway shows! Amos attended Wicked, Matilda, and Lion King. "Which show did you enjoy the most?", I inquired. Amos responded "Elphaba from Wicked. I related most to Elphaba; she was an outcast and misunderstood," replied Amos.
Students were invited to perform in an off-broadway show as well as in the talent show. Amos performed a poem entitled "Knock-Knock,” by Daniel Baety. More than 600 people watched while Amos shared his gift for story telling. Amos explained, "the poem was about privilege. The poem was about not having a father and having limitations, but still succeeding. Having a father is so special and I wanted to share it with them,” stated Amos. "So many people paid their own way to be there and I couldn’t – I got a scholarship. I was touched by the audience's reaction. Many were emotional, coming up to me and sharing their personal stories of missing a father figure in their life," said Amos. This performance was his favorite moment and the best part of the trip. Amos proudly stated “My mom was very happy when I was accepted; she shows all her friends the video of me performing. She is so proud of it!”
Amos met students from all over the world. Countries like Kuwait, Luxenbourg. Germany, and Italy. "We shared our culture and taught each other simple phrases in our own language. I was able to greet tourists on campus in Chinese, thanks to my classmates instruction," shared Amos.
Amos spent the summer of 2014 at Princeton University, which was his first time away from home. An Engineering summer program, which helped him realize he wanted to be a performer. (wait listed – applied 3x) Got a huge scholarship and his sending district paid the balance.
Amos plans to apply next year to Carnegie Mellon, which is his dream school. Amos will be performing in the Fall Performing Arts play, “12 Angry Jurors”. Best of luck to you, Amos as you pursue your dreams.
By, Laura Geltch, Program & Community Coordinator, BCIT
Back To School Night
Save the Date! BCIT Fall Discovery Night
October 22, 7 - 9 p.m.
Westampton & Medford Campuses
http://www.bcit.cc/cms/lib04/NJ03000372/Centricity/Domain/1/BCIT%20Discovery%20Night%20Flyer%20Oct.%202015%20.pdfBCIT In Print:
Common Core Review Committee Rolls Up Sleeves, Gets To Work On Revisions
Parent Focus Group with Superintendent, Dr. Christopher Manno
Tuesday, November 10, 2015, 4:30 p.m.
R.S.V.P.
Charleen Stevenson, at cstevenson@bcit.cc by November 3, 2015.
BCIT Summer Camp 2016
Registration for our 2016 BCIT Summer Camp opens February 1, 2016. Register early! Our camps fill up fast.
Camp dates for Summer 2016:
July 11-15
July 18-22
July 25-29
BCIT Summer Camp Comments
"Loved camp! I plan to change major to Entertainment Tech".
"I am coming back next year"!
"Wish I signed up for another week"!
BCIT Respect Week & Red Ribbon Week:
Respect Week: October 5-9, 2015
Red Ribbon Week: October 23-30, 2015
Save the date: Coach Bingo, Thursday, October 15, 2015
Reserve Coach Bingo seats in late August
Our Coach Bingo events are so popular we’re planning two each year! Sell-out crowds bring snacks, enthusiasm and luck to the Atrium at the Westampton Campus for friendly games that result in winners of Coach bags, Coach merchandise and cash prizes. The 50-50 Game alone gave more than $1,000 to the lucky winner!
"Party of eight" reservations are guaranteed a table to themselves; players who reserve seven or fewer spots will find seats on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Thu., Oct. 15 at Westampton Atrium
- 6 pm Doors Open, 7 pm Games Begin
- $25 per person in advance
- Admission covers cards for six Regular games; card packs for 10 Specials games and a 50-50 game will be available for purchase
Proceeds benefit the Foundation’s mission to support the school's students and staff with education-based technology and post-secondary scholarships.
Get in on the games by sending a check to BCIT Foundation (695 Woodlane Rd, Westampton NJ 08060) with your contact phone number and email address. Or charge reservations online using Paypal; go to www.bcit.cc/foundation and click on Events.
Guests can bring food (no alcohol), but we’ll provide snacks for every table. Must be 18 to attend.
Does your company want 300 pairs of eyes on its logo? Event Sponsors ($100) get signage next to a displayed prize and on the info sheets placed on every table.
Questions? Call the Foundation at (609) 267-4226, ext. 335 or send an email to foundation@bcit.cc.
This event is not affiliated with Coach Inc. BCIT Foundation will operate this event under state ID #329-5-34741 and municipal license BA7-2015.
12 Angry Jurors
Twelve Angry Jurors
Dec. 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec 11, 2015, 07:00 PM
BCIT (Burlington County Institite of Technology): Medford Campus, Hawkin Road, Medford, NJ, United States
Do you have a story to share?
Our students and staff are unique and truly outstanding Burlington County community members. It would be my pleasure to share student, family, and parent stories with our school's community.
Please contact me if you would like to share your story.
Thank you,
Program & Community Coordinator
BCIT
Burlington County Alternative School hosts Parent/Community Network Events
BCIT 2015-2016 School Calendar
Like us on Facebook!
Fall Resource Fair on Friday, October 16, 2015
The Burlington County Education and Youth Services Collaboration Working Group will be hosting a Fall Resource Fair on Friday, October 16, 2015. The fair will include presentations by:
- Family Crisis Intervention Unit (FCIU)
- Care Management Organization(CMO)
- Chlldrens’ Mobile Reponse and Stabilization Services
- Screening Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP)
- Family Support Organization (FSO)
- NJ Division of Child Protection & Permanency (DCP&P)
- Juvenile Justice
- Youth One Stops
- Children’s InterAgency Coordinating Committee (CIACC)
Please REGISTER by clicking here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/registerff
LOCATION:
Burl Co Emergency Training Center, 52 Academy Drive, Westampton, NJ
Parent/Student Tips:
How to create a home for homework:
2ndFloor.org Youth Helpline
In NJ, youth have an anonymous and confidential helpline to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 1-888-222-2228 to speak with someone who will listen attentively and compassionately to any issues you are facing.
ANY CALL, ANY TIME - we are always here and ready to help.
Emergency Closing/Delayed Opening Procedures:
In the event of a campus emergency or inclement weather, staff members will be contacted via email, phone message, and text message. In addition, we will post a Special Alert Message on our website.
Staff Members, Help us Contact You.
Have you moved? Have you changed your phone number or email address? Please make sure to update your information with BCIT Personnel.
Students will be contacted using information stored in Genesis, our electronic student database. Parents should be reminded to ensure their contact information is up-to-date. Any changes should be reported to the main office of the student's school.