Author: csadmin

How to Beat Back to School Blues: Easing the Transition

Written by csadmin on August 15, 2022. Posted in Class Burnout, College.

If you’re feeling some anxiety about the end of summer and going back to school, you’re not alone. Many students feel some dread about getting back in the classroom. The good news is, that this feeling is likely temporary, and you’ll be back into the swing of things in no time! But, if that idea isn’t quite enough to give you comfort, below are our top, tested ideas for beating the back-to-school blues.

Fun School Supplies

While taking notes might not feel exciting, getting a fresh notebook and set of pens might. Or, take the time to refresh and customize the supplies you already have. Get rid of old notes so your remaining pages are clear, throw away dried-out pens, or illustrate a new cover for your notebook. Revitalizing your supplies might even make you more excited to use them.

Reconnect with Friends

Even with the best intentions, it can be difficult to keep in touch with friends from class over the summer. Plan a time to get together before school starts back or during one of the first few weekends once school starts. Reminiscing on your past high school memories can help get you in the mood to make new ones.

Set Goals for the Year

“You get out of it what you put into it” applies to many experiences in life, including high school. Going into class with a goal in mind is a good way to set yourself up for success. Maybe you want to raise your GPA by a few points this year or set up a good study routine. Imagining a few accomplishments for the year can help get you in the mindset for going back.

Plan Something Fun

If you’re not looking forward to going back to school, plan something else to look forward to! Maybe it’s seeing a new movie after your first week of classes or getting together with your friends for a back-to-school bash. Anything that helps ease the transition from summer break to study dates.

At the Rose Academies, we want you to feel ready for back to school; and maybe even look forward to it! Our teachers and staff understand it can be a transition to get back into the swing of things and are available to help answer your questions, plan a successful year, and know what to expect for the year ahead.

Our final tip for beating the back-to-school blues is to learn what makes a Rose Academies’ education different with a visit to our website.

Can I Go Back to High School After Dropping Out?

Written by csadmin on August 15, 2022. Posted in High School Dropout Prevention.

Dropping out of high school can feel like a permanent decision, but that isn’t always the case. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Can I go back to high school after dropping out?”—the answer is yes! No matter why you left, you can pick up where you left off and earn your diploma.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through your options for returning to high school after dropping out, including how to re-enroll, what to expect, and why finishing your diploma is worth it. Rose Academies provides all the information you need to take the next step toward a brighter future.

If you’re thinking about going back to high school after dropping out, Rose Academies offers flexible, supportive programs to help students like you succeed. Contact us today to explore your options at our charter schools and find a path that suits your schedule and lifestyle.

Reasons You May Have Dropped Out

There are many reasons why students leave high school before graduating. Unexpected challenges arise, and sometimes school takes a backseat to other responsibilities—but that doesn’t mean you can’t go back to high school and earn your diploma.

Some common reasons students drop out of high school include:

Work obligations
Family responsibilities (caring for younger siblings, supporting parents, or even becoming a parent yourself)
Health challenges
Falling behind in classes
Bullying or social anxiety
Lack of motivation or interest
Frequent moves or unstable living situations

Dropout Recovery Options

If you’ve dropped out of high school, there are multiple options to earn your diploma or an equivalent credential:

Re-enrolling in high school: If you’re still within the age limit set by your state, you may be able to return to high school and complete your remaining credits.
Credit recovery programs: These programs let you retake the classes you need to graduate, often at an accelerated pace.
Alternative high schools: Schools like Rose Academies are designed for non-traditional students, offering flexible schedules for self-paced learning.
Online high school programs: Fully virtual options allow you to complete coursework from anywhere, at your own pace.
GED or HiSET programs: If returning to high school isn’t an option, earning a high school equivalency diploma through the GED or HiSET can open doors to jobs and college.
Adult education programs: Some community colleges and adult learning centers offer diploma completion programs for students over the traditional high school age.
Job Corps and workforce training programs: Certain government-funded programs help young adults earn a diploma while gaining career training.

Benefits of Returning to High School

Whether your goal is to attend college, launch a career, or simply prove to yourself that you can earn a diploma, re-enrolling in high school offers unique advantages over other alternatives, including:

Many colleges and training programs prefer applicants with a diploma over a GED.
A high school diploma can make it easier to qualify for higher-paying jobs and career opportunities.
You’ll gain valuable skills in math, reading, and communication that can help you succeed in everyday life.
Completing high school can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence.
You’ll gain access to more financial aid options for college or vocational training.
Some apprenticeships, trade schools, and military programs require a high school diploma for admission.
Returning to school can connect you with supportive teachers, mentors, and classmates who encourage your success.

GED vs. High School Diploma

While a GED is an ideal option for some students, earning a high school diploma opens the door for more opportunities. Many employers and colleges prefer a diploma because it shows you’ve completed a full course of study as opposed to passing an exam.

A high school diploma can also give you a stronger academic foundation, making it easier to pursue college or career training. If you have the option to return to high school, it’s often the best choice for long-term success.

Age Eligibility & State Requirements For Returning to High School

The laws for re-enrolling in high school vary by state, but in most cases, students can return if they are under 21 years old. Some states allow students to attend alternative or adult education high schools beyond that age.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, checking with your local school district or state education department is the best way to confirm. Even if you’ve aged out of traditional high school, alternative programs and diploma completion options may be available to help you finish your education.

Step-by-Step Guide to Returning to High School After Dropping Out

If you’re ready to go back to high school, follow these steps to re-enroll and get back on track:

Check your eligibility: Find out if you meet your state’s age requirements for returning to high school. Most states allow students to re-enroll until they turn 21.
Research your options: Look into traditional high schools, alternative programs, online schools, and credit recovery options to find the best fit for your needs.
Contact the school or district: Reach out to your previous high school or local school district to ask about re-enrollment procedures and available programs.
Gather necessary documents: Schools may require your previous transcripts, proof of residency, or identification to process your enrollment.
Meet with a school counselor: A counselor can help you understand your remaining graduation requirements and create a plan to complete them.
Choose a schedule that works for you: If you need flexibility due to work or family responsibilities, look for schools that offer part-time, evening, or online classes.
Commit to your education: Once you’re enrolled, stay motivated, ask for help when needed, and take advantage of support resources to help you succeed.

Enroll in High School After Dropping Out at Rose Academies

If you’re ready to return to high school, Rose Academies offers flexible learning options and self-paced classes to meet your needs. Our supportive learning environment and smaller class sizes make it easier to earn your diploma while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.

Contact Rose Academies today to learn more about our programs and take the first step toward a brighter future!

Rose Academies’ Video Blog – High School Diploma

Written by csadmin on August 10, 2022. Posted in Video Blog.

It can be a struggle to get through high-school: you may find yourself a few credits behind, feel discouraged by the social environment of a traditional high-school, or have other challenges outside of school with work or family; but there are options for graduating, even if you’ve gotten off-track!

Earning your diploma can turn your life around, making a huge impact on your future, for generations to come.

Can High School Students Take College Classes?

Written by csadmin on July 25, 2022. Posted in College.

If you’d like to get ahead on college classes while still in high school, dual enrollment may be right for you. Dual enrollment is when Students take college-level courses while completing requirements for their high school diplomas. This can be a great way to save money, impress college admissions departments, and have greater flexibility later on.

There are several ways to earn college credit while still in high school, including taking college or AP classes, testing out of requirements, and enrolling early. At the Rose Academies, we prioritize offering flexible learning options with personalized schedules so that our students can reach their goals according to the best timeline.

Another option is early enrollment through a local community college. At the Rose Academies, we offer a Pima Community College Reimbursement Scholarship for students ages 16 and older interested in earning college credit while enrolled in high school. This is a great way to get college credit toward your college degree and get the credit that counts toward your high school diploma at the same time, all while saving money. Ask your principal for additional information and requirements,

Lastly, an option that has become increasingly popular is taking college classes online during the time outside of your high school classes. Community colleges and universities offer more distance learning options than ever before, and many will allow the enrollment of current high schoolers with the right qualifications. Some online classes have set class times where one must be “in attendance” on their computer, but many are self-paced with just a few set deadlines for projects and exams.

Students interested in dual enrollment should consult their School Administrators to learn about their options and determine which courses or programs would work best for their goals. The Rose Academies are committed to helping students explore their interests, gain new skills, and prepare for life after high school, all while earning their diplomas. We invite you to continue exploring our website to learn more and enroll today.

Why are Student-Teacher Ratios Important?

Written by csadmin on June 24, 2022. Posted in Charter High Schools, Graduation, Summer Opportunities.

When class sizes are too large, students often miss out on personalized attention, hindering their academic growth and engagement. This blog explores the ideal student-teacher ratio, how it differs from class sizes, and its significant impact on educational outcomes. We also discuss the benefits smaller student-teacher ratios offer in promoting individualized learning and ensuring students are included in the classroom.

Imagine a school where every student is known by name, their strengths and challenges are understood, and their educational journey is supported with personalized attention. This is the reality at Rose Academies. With a student body of around 150, Rose Academies maintains low student-teacher ratios and fosters an environment where students can thrive. Each student works independently within a self-paced curriculum yet always has access to teachers for guidance and support.

Continue reading to learn more about why finding the ideal teacher-student ratio is important for educational development, and contact Rose Academies today to see why we’ve become the perfect choice for parents who value quality and personalized learning in Arizona.

The Importance of Student-Teacher Ratios in Education

A low student-to-teacher ratio can enhance the quality of education by allowing for more individualized instruction. This personalized attention helps both primary school and high school students perform better academically, engage more in class, and exhibit improved behavior. Minority, low-income, and special needs students benefit from this, getting the tailored support they need to thrive.

Additionally, smaller student-teacher ratios promote educational equity by ensuring all students receive the same level of attention and resources. This fosters inclusivity and helps bridge achievement gaps between different student groups. Ultimately, lower ratios create a more balanced and fair education system than a higher student-teacher ratio.

What is the Student-Teacher Ratio?

The student-faculty ratio measures the number of students assigned to each teacher in a school. It’s an essential metric for understanding the level of individual attention a student might receive. This ratio can impact educational quality, influencing everything from classroom dynamics to student performance.

How it Differs from Class Size

While often used interchangeably, the student-teacher ratio and class size are distinct concepts. The student-teacher ratio considers a school’s total number of students and teachers, providing a broader picture of resources. In contrast, class size refers to the number of students in a single classroom, directly affecting daily teaching and learning experiences.

How to Calculate Student-Teacher Ratio

Calculating the student-teacher ratio involves dividing the total number of students by the total number of teachers. For instance, if a school has 300 students and 15 teachers, the student-teacher ratio would be 20:1. This calculation helps schools and parents gauge the potential for personalized education and overall teaching effectiveness.

The Ideal Student-Teacher Ratio

The ideal student-teacher ratio varies depending on the educational context and the needs of the students, but research generally supports smaller ratios for optimal learning outcomes. Ratios of 15:1 or lower are often considered ideal, allowing teachers to provide more personalized attention, engage effectively with each student, and address individual learning needs so all students can thrive academically and socially.

Why Student-Teacher Ratios Matter

Smaller student-teacher ratios are beneficial in early education and for students requiring additional support. In these settings, teachers can closely monitor progress, provide immediate feedback, and tailor instruction to each student’s needs. This personalized approach helps to ensure that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, receive the quality education they deserve.

Impact on Individual Attention & Support

A lower student-teacher ratio allows teachers to dedicate more time and attention to each student. This individualized support enables teachers to identify and address specific learning challenges promptly. As a result, students receive the help they need to succeed academically and develop confidence in their abilities.

Correlation with Student Performance & Outcomes

Research shows a strong correlation between smaller student-teacher ratios and improved student performance. Students in smaller classes tend to have higher test scores, better grades, and a deeper understanding of the material than those in bigger class sizes at public schools. This enhanced academic performance is due to the increased opportunities for personalized instruction and active class participation.

Relevance to Educational Equity & Inclusivity

Smaller student-teacher ratios contribute to educational equity by ensuring all students receive equal attention and resources. This can benefit minority, low-income, and special needs students who may require additional support. By reducing the ratio, schools can create a more inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Average Student-Teacher Ratios in the United States

The average student-teacher ratio in the United States varies by state and educational level, typically ranging from 15:1 to 26:1 in high schools. For example, states like Vermont and New Hampshire boast some of the lowest ratios, around 12:1, while California and Nevada have higher averages, closer to 24:1. These figures highlight disparities in educational resources and the potential impact on student learning experiences across the country.

The Rose Academies’s Student-Teacher Ratios

At Rose Academies, maintaining an optimal student-teacher ratio is a priority, with an average ratio significantly lower than the national average. With a student body totaling around 150, Rose Academies ensures that each student receives the personalized attention needed to succeed.

This commitment to low student-teacher ratios allows for individualized instruction and strong student-teacher relationships, setting Rose Academies apart in providing high-quality education.

Benefits of Smaller Student-Teacher Ratios

Smaller student-teacher ratios offer numerous advantages, significantly enhancing the educational experience. These benefits include improved academic performance, increased classroom engagement, better behavior management, and greater support for minority, low-income, and special-needs students.

Improved Test Scores & Academic Performance

Smaller student-teacher ratios are linked to higher academic achievement. According to research from Education Advanced, students in classes with ratios of 15:1 or lower often score 20% higher on standardized tests than in larger classes. The National Center for Education Statistics also reports that these students show a 10-15% increase in overall GPA due to more personalized instruction and feedback.

Enhanced Engagement & Participation in Class

In classrooms with fewer students, teachers can create a more interactive and engaging learning environment. A study by the National Education Association found that students in smaller classes were 25% more likely to participate in discussions and ask questions. Increased engagement can result in a 15% improvement in comprehension and retention of the educational material.

Better Behavior & Classroom Management

Lower student-teacher ratios contribute to better classroom behavior and management. Teachers can devote more time to addressing individual behavioral issues and maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere. This results in a 30% reduction in disciplinary actions, according to the American Educational Research Association, creating a more conducive learning environment for all students.

Gains for Minority, Low-Income, & Special Needs Students

Smaller student-teacher ratios are beneficial for minority, low-income, and special needs students. These students often require more individualized attention and support to succeed. Studies have shown that lower ratios can lead to a 20% increase in academic performance and a 25% reduction in dropout rates for these groups, helping to close achievement gaps and promote educational equity.

Parental Involvement & Home Education Support

Parental involvement supports student success, especially in schools with smaller student-teacher ratios. When parents actively engage in their child’s education, it enhances classroom learning and reinforces the personalized attention students receive. Schools like Rose Academies encourage strong partnerships with parents, offering resources and support to ensure students thrive both at school and at home.

Tucson Charter Schools & Smaller Student-Teacher Ratios

Tucson charter schools, including Rose Academies, often maintain smaller student-teacher ratios compared to traditional public schools. This approach ensures that students receive more personalized attention and tailored educational experiences, fostering a supportive learning environment. At Rose Academies, maintaining low student-teacher ratios is a priority to provide individualized support and enhance student success.

Comparing Student-Teacher Ratios in Charter Vs. Public Schools

Charter schools generally have lower student-teacher ratios than public schools, which can significantly impact the quality of education. For example, Rose Academies maintains an average ratio of around 15:1, while public schools can have ratios exceeding 25:1.

This difference between charter schools and traditional public schools allows charter schools to offer more focused attention, resulting in better academic outcomes and a more engaging classroom experience.

Impact of Teacher Qualifications on Student Outcomes in Different Ratios

Teacher qualifications directly affect student outcomes, especially when considering different student-teacher ratios. Highly qualified teachers can effectively manage larger classes, ensuring quality education despite higher ratios. In smaller classes, their expertise allows for more personalized instruction, which enhances student engagement and academic success.

Student-Teacher Ratio FAQs

What is the ideal student-teacher ratio?

The ideal student-teacher ratio varies by educational context but is often considered to be around 15:1. This ratio allows for sufficient individual attention and support, fostering a productive learning environment. Research supports that ratios below 20:1 tend to produce the best educational outcomes.

Does reducing class size improve achievement?

Yes, reducing average class size generally improves student achievement. Smaller classes allow for more personalized instruction, increased student engagement, and better classroom management. Studies have shown that students in smaller classes often perform better academically and have higher levels of participation.

Should High School Start Later?: Considerations for Students

Written by csadmin on June 17, 2022. Posted in Charter High Schools.

High School students are at a pivotal point in their growth and development, making the need for sleep paramount in their lives. But how might the need for sleep clash with the average school start time? Data shows that later school start times provide adolescents the opportunity to get the sleep they need on school nights, which optimizes daytime alertness, reduces tardiness, and improves school attendance.

The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine suggests that teenagers 13 to 18 years old should sleep between 8 to 10 hours on a regular basis to promote optimal health. However, CDC data shows that 68.4 percent of high school students report typically sleeping seven hours or less during the week. In most cases, this is due to staying up later and then waking up to an early alarm to get to school on time.

But, it’s not as simple as adhering to an earlier bedtime. During the teen years, the circadian rhythm shifts and delays, creating a desire to go to sleep later at night and wake up later in the morning. With an average high school start time of 7:30 a.m., many students are required to be alert and in school when their bodies are still wanting to be asleep.

A later school start time supports peak academic performance, more opportunities for learning, better mental health, and even enhanced driving safety. Early school start times, coupled with extracurricular activities and homework, can make it difficult for teens to get enough sleep, but many schools are working with the needs of parents and transportation, often taking talks of starting school later off the table.

At the Rose Academies, we give our students the unique opportunity to choose their own start time. We offer three session times throughout the day, starting at 7 am, 12 pm, or 5 pm, to ensure sleep, work, school, and life can be in better balance.

If more sleep and a flexible schedule feel like the right choice for you or your student, we invite you to learn more about an alternative high school education at the Rose Academies with a visit to our website.

ROSE Academies’ Video Blog – May 2022 – Graduation

Written by csadmin on May 17, 2022. Posted in Graduation, Rose News, Video Blog.

The Rose Academies would like to congratulate all of our graduating seniors for making it to this crowning academic achievement. The class of 2022 faced challenges unlike ever before and persevered, arriving at this moment. We are proud to have you all as part of the Rose Academy legacy and to have facilitated an environment where you were able to thrive.

Many of our students worked one or more jobs while keeping up with their studies. Some chose to graduate early and get a head start on their collegiate goals; others came to Rose thinking they wouldn’t be able to graduate on time, but instead chose to dedicate themselves to earning their diploma. They have now all walked across that stage and into a new, exciting chapter of their lives.

Congratulations to the Rose Academies’ class of 2022, you did it!

The Benefits of Attending Summer School: Enhanced Learning

Written by csadmin on May 16, 2022. Posted in Summer Opportunities.

There are many benefits to attending summer school. It can help students to get ahead on their coursework, make up for lost time, and even retain information they’ve learned throughout the year. Summer school courses are typically accelerated, but worth the same amount of credits as a course taken during the traditional year, allowing time for both school and other summer activities. Below are a few additional reasons why attending summer school is a good option for high school students.

Less Coursework for Later

Taking just one summer course can set a student up to have a lighter course load during the regular semesters. With a lightened class load, the remaining classes in the fall and spring can receive more attention and students may have the opportunity to participate in further extracurriculars or elective coursework.

Avoid Summer Learning Loss

Students lose an average of 20% of their school year gains during summer break. Summer school keeps students engaged with learning to help avoid this “summer slide”. Students also have the opportunity to explore other subjects and interests that they wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to during the regular school year.

Reinforce Class Knowledge

Many summer school courses reinforce knowledge in core subjects to help students gain a better grasp on fundamental subjects. For students who struggle in specific academic areas or for students who excel in core areas, summer programs allow students to enhance their cognitive skills and abilities.

A Cost-Effective Learning Opportunity

At the Rose Academies, summer school is free! Better your grade, get ahead, make up credits, or simply stay sharp during the summer with classes now enrolling at the Rose Academies. Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Pros and Cons of Summer Jobs: A Guide For High Schoolers

Written by csadmin on May 16, 2022. Posted in Summer Opportunities.

As the school year comes to an end and temperatures climb, you may be interested in taking on a summer job to earn extra income and find a fulfilling way to spend your time. A summer job could be a great opportunity to gain confidence and time management skills while earning some cash, but it isn’t without drawbacks. If you’re considering applying, here is some information that may help you to decide if summer work is right for you.

The Pros:

Networking

When applying to colleges or careers in the future, you’ll need references. Working a summer job gives you an opportunity to connect with the people you meet along the way and hopefully get to know a boss or supervisor who will have the skills to convey your strengths in a future letter of recommendation.

Time Management

Time management is a muscle you often get to flex during the school year, but not so much during the long summer days. Working will give you the opportunity to continue learning how to prioritize your tasks and to-dos while having time left over to still enjoy your summer.

Career Exploration

A summer job can give you the chance to acquire experience in a field you’re interested in. A certain career may sound great to you on paper, but it’s hard to know if you’ll really enjoy the work and be motivated enough to stick with it without first having some on-the-job experience.

The Cons:

Competitive

Looking for a job that will hire an inexperienced student just for the summer months can be a challenge. Depending on the size of your town, you may be competing against many students for just a handful of summer job opportunities, let alone one you find fulfilling or worthwhile. Vying for one of the few seasonal work positions could be stressful and cut into your already limited summer time.

Short Time Frame

Speaking of being short on time, summer break is typically just two and a half months long. Cut a few weeks from that for on-the-job training, and just two short months of summer work might not seem worth it. It could be more advantageous to get a job in the summer that you could then continue working at part time during the school year.

At the Rose Academies, we are dedicated to fostering an educational environment that aligns with our students’ needs and goals. That includes flexible scheduling options to allow our students to gain valuable working experience during the school year if they choose. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening class sessions to fit a quality education along with our students’ other pursuits.

We invite you to learn more and enroll today by continuing to explore our website.