Showing students it pays to get good grades, Garland ISD’s new National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) College Readiness Program rewarded hundreds of high schoolers this fall. They received more than $45,000 for passing Advanced Placement exams with a score of 3 or higher.
“It was very encouraging for our students to see others being rewarded for academic success and not just athletic or extracurricular success,” said Lakeview Centennial High School Principal Maresa Bailey. “They were saying, ‘Wow, that could be me next year.’”
In place at Lakeview, as well as Naaman Forest, North Garland and South Garland high schools, NMSI aims to increase the number of students taking math, science and English AP exams. The program kicked off in 2014-15, providing professional development for AP teachers and practice for potential testers. The district hosted several Saturday study sessions throughout the year inviting students from all seven high schools. In addition to reinforcing skills learned in the classroom and offering test-taking tips, attendees were also treated to pizza and the chance to win door prizes at each meeting.
“We had 3,298 students attend the study sessions. That translated to 14,328 sets of handouts and 12,824 slices of pizza,” commented NMSI Program Manager Toni Schneider.
Last May, students at Lakeview, Naaman, North Garland and South Garland took nearly 1,850 math, science and English AP exams. This marks a 67 percent increase over previous years. Those campuses also saw a 51 percent increase in the number of students earning a 3 or higher on their exams.
“We are very, very proud of our staff and students for their accomplishments and constant drive for greater achievements,” said North Garland Principal Glenda Williams.
This fall, each NMSI school held a pep rally to recognize that success. Special cheers, decorations and dances all accompanied presentations of checks. Many Class of 2015 alumni even returned to claim their rewards. Paying $100 per passing score, honorees earned up to $800. Teachers will also receive their own gift for helping students excel.
GISD hopes to increase its AP participation again in 2016. Saturday study sessions began in December and will continue throughout April.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.