MCH charter school hosts “Fish Camp”

Incoming freshmen for the charter school at Methodist Children’s Home received an introduction to high school during “Fish Day” on July 19. The two-hour event at the school, located on the Waco campus, served as freshman orientation to prepare students before the school year begins and introduce them to MCH and school staff who will be working with them.

During the orientation, freshman students listened to several presentations and toured the high school areas of the school where they will attend classes. Jeff Creel, program administrator for school and transition services, talked to students about expectations for each year of high school. Executive Principal Michelle Arocha introduced changes for the next school year such as new teachers, new district theme, and dress code, schedule and policy adjustments. Students also participated in an activity with MCH recreation staff.

Freshmen were also introduced to Transition Services, a program serving MCH students as they transition to independence. TS coordinators begin working with MCH students during their junior year of high school in creating post high school graduation plans. They assist students in preparations such as college visits, applications for financial aid and scholarships, and life skills training. TS coordinators shared information with the students about their role and gave specific information regarding tests they will encounter such as the Texas Success Initiative Assessment college readiness exam and the SAT/ACT standardized tests used to determine college admission and scholarships.

Presentations emphasized the importance of academic performance during high school with the intention of getting them off to a positive start.

   

“We want to make sure they stay focused and maintain their GPA because that is important when looking at college,” said Dorothy Phillips, director of educational services at MCH.

The MCH charter school is operated in partnership with the University of Texas-University Charter School system. The 2018-19 school year will begin on August 15.