Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/649572
to take college classes, but not at the expense of the high school. "It's a great alternative and allows students to take classes for free or low cost, but it should be for classes we don't offer," he says. CO L L A B O R AT I V E R E L AT I O N S H I P Other districts have been able to put programs in place that pass muster with both community college and high school instructors. High school students in the Las Virgenes Unified School District are able to take classes at three different commu- nity colleges in the area. "It's become much more popular in the last eight years," says Pat Brooks, head counselor at Agoura High School and a member of the Las Virgenes Education Association. "We only allow students to take classes we don't offer, and they can take them for college credit only, so that there is no double dipping." The three local colleges offer a separate enrollment period for the high school students, who must sign up in person and are not allowed to take up spaces reserved for community college students. Brooks says about 250 high school students are currently enrolled and are only allowed to take one course at a time. To further manage expectations, the high school's coun- seling office requires both students and their parents sign a form. "We want them to be aware these are college courses, and the discussions that take place are college discussions. ey need to fully understand that. Some of our students aren't mature enough and think it's OK to skip class," Brooks says. "Success depends on the kid. Some think it's an easier way to go, but they learn quickly it doesn't work that way." ere have been additional, unexpected benefits to the program, Brooks says. In some cases, parents have been motivated to enroll in classes as well, making it easier for students to get to campus, and easier for both to do home- work together. While acknowledging the legitimate issues that have been raised, Vice Chancellor Stewart is optimistic they can be addressed and resolved. "As a system, we are struggling with students who are not prepared. We want to improve student outcomes. is is about how we work together in a more collaborative way," he says. Stewart says he hopes the tool kit will be available in the coming months. 43 March 2016 WI15-3045 CCTC Approved Reading and Literacy Added Authorization extension.ucsd.edu/education UC San Diego Extension offers the CCTC Approved Reading and Literacy Added Authorization (previously referred to as Reading Certificate) which is a comprehensive program of study that provides students with a solid foundation in the research and methods of reading instruction. The Reading and Literacy Added Authorization program is geared towards teachers with the potential to become leaders and mentors in the area of reading. It will provide educators with the right tools to improve student achievement. Program Highlights: • The program provides participants with the skills to develop a research-based program of reading instruction for implementation in their own classrooms or as a resource for other classroom teachers • This certificate is aligned with the requirements and standards established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC). • 100% online To view credential requirements, the program FAQs and to download an application please visit our Reading Instruction at extension.ucsd.edu/teachreading UC San Diego Extension also offers accessible and affordable online programs for K-12 and Postsecondary Educators. • New courses begin every month • Most programs can be completed online within 1 year • Interactive, Research-Based Programs with Practical Classroom Application Programs include: • CCTC-Approved Clear Credential Program • CCTC Approved CLAD Through CTEL Program • College Counseling Specialized Certificate • Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Specialized Certificate • Teaching Adult Learners Professional Certificate • Teaching Online Certificate • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Professional Certificate • Professional Development/Salary Point Coursework For more information, please contact Morgan Appel, Director of Education at: (858) 534-9273 or mappel@ucsd.edu