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Celebrate Arts in Education Month
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A360’s ‘TEC’ Creates Meaningful Experiences for Young Women
Academy360 Upper School's revived after-school program for girls underscores the enduring value in fostering connections, building confidence, and creating lasting memories.
Academy360 Upper School’s Young Adult Program has introduced a dual enrollment program with Essex County Community College (ECC), allowing Academy360 young adults to earn college credits while in high school. Spearheaded by FilmAcademy360 Program Director and Academy360 Teacher David Diianni, the program connects students with the broader community while preparing them for post-secondary success.
The initiative, originally launched at Bergen Community College (BCC), provides opportunities for our Young Adult Program students aged 18-21 who are focused on transitioning to post secondary life. The program offers these students access to college-level academics and the opportunity to pursue associate degrees. While the dual enrollment concept is common in many public high schools, it is a unique offering for students with autism and related challenges.
Eight students are currently enrolled in the Academy360-funded program’s “Introduction to TV Production” course, earning three credits. Plans are underway to expand course offerings to include Introduction to Film, Photoshop and additional digital media classes, increasing the number of available credits. Beyond media courses, the addition of math and study skills classes will offer further opportunities for growth.
To ensure the program is accessible to students with varying learning abilities, courses are designed to mirror the curriculum of their partnering community college while being taught by Academy360 teachers approved by the ECC, who submit and follow approved course outlines while incorporating multiple practice quizzes and assessments to support students’ learning.
Careful consideration is used in selecting students to participate in the program, focusing on those enrolled in advanced media classes or with transition plans that align with the program’s goals. Program administrators envision expanding IEPs in the future to include dual enrollment options for more students.
Students gain a sense of independence, pride and confidence by taking part in college-level classes. In addition to academics, these students expand their critical thinking and active listening skills, and learn to adapt to challenging situations. Spending one day a week on a college campus provides them with the opportunity to engage with college peers and have genuine campus experiences.
“This program gives our students real world experience in the community which fosters personal and social growth,” shares David Diiani. “ They feel accomplished and proud of being able to navigate a post-secondary experience with independence.”
This initiative aligns with Academy360’s mission to prepare students for lifelong success. Through this partnership with ECC and creating meaningful educational opportunities, the dual enrollment program sets a new standard for special needs education.
