Virginia Beach, Va. – An information session will be held tonight at 7 p.m. about Green Run Collegiate, a new public charter school scheduled to open this September in Virginia Beach.
If you would like more information about this program, please read the information below.
What is Green Run Collegiate?
Green Run Collegiate (GRC), a public charter school, will open in September 2013. The school’s mission will revolve around college readiness. As a result its foundation will be built on two programs – the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advancement Via Individual Determination. IB is recognized worldwide for offering quality international education programs designed to empower students for college and career readiness. AT GRC, IB will be represented through three curriculum strands: the Middle Years Program (MYP), the Diploma Program (DP) and Career-related Certificate. AVID is a college readiness system designed to increase school wide learning and performance. Its philosophy: Hold students accountable to the highest standards provide academic and social support, and they will rise to the challenge.
What is a charter school?
Public charter schools are independent public schools allowed the freedom to be more innovative, while still being held accountable for improved student achievement. A public charter must be approved by the Virginia Beach School Board. The responsibility for staffing and oversight of day to day operations will be guided by the GRC Governing Board.
Why a charter school?
A charter school allows more flexibility than a traditional school environment. That flexibility could involve adjusting curriculum to meet student needs, offering support activities and creating a unique culture such as a focus on collegiate preparation.
What is the student registration process and who may apply?
GRC will enroll up to 100 ninth graders in its first year. If there are more than 100 applicants, students will be selected through an open lottery process. Rising ninth-grade students are invited to apply. Those who wish to learn more about the program can complete an interest form. That form can be completed and returned online through the Green Run Collegiate page on the school system’s website, vbschools.com or at greenruncollegiate.com. Those who do not have access to the Internet can obtain a form by calling the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at 263-1070. Formal registration will begin in the spring.
What will be the capacity of GRC?
The school will open in September 2013 with ninth-grade students and add one grade level per year until it reaches its full capacity of 400 students.
Can a student apply to Green Run Collegiate if he/she already has applied to an academy?
Yes. Students who have applied to an academy program can also seek entrance into GRC. He or she will then have the option of choosing the placement that best meets their educational needs.
What makes Green Run Collegiate different from an academy?
GRC will not operate as an academy or as a school within a school. Rather, it will be a separate school. Space will be shared with Green Run High School; however, the schools will be independent of each other and linked only through contractual agreements for services.
What makes Green Run Collegiate a good option for my child?
A one-size-fits-all approach to public education is not appropriate when there are so many differences in student interests, learning styles and talents. GRC offers the best of both worlds: As a charter school, it creates a smaller learning community for students and teachers, but because it operates in a public school setting it still must meet state standards. Teachers will be trained in innovative curriculum models and strategies to both engage students and meet their diverse needs. The school will offer flexibility regarding instructional time and teachers may serve as mentors to the students. Another positive aspect is that Green Run Collegiate will expose students to rigorous post-secondary expectations through IB courses, dual enrollment opportunities and Advanced Placement coursework. MYP ninth and 10th graders will be fully prepared for the IB Diploma Program. Furthermore, a new IB Career-related Certificate program will also be offered as an option to allow students to achieve industry certification in many technological fields while earning IB Diploma credit.
Is Green Run Collegiate designed to replace the International Baccalaureate program at Princess Anne?
No, Green Run Collegiate is not intended to replace the Princess Anne IB program. GRC will provide unique additional IB experiences for interested students. In 2012, only one in five students who applied for the program at Princess Anne were accepted (484 students applied for the 142 open spots). GRC will create additional opportunities for students to participate in the International Baccalaureate Program.
Are expectations for MYP and DP at Green Run Collegiate different from those set for Princess Anne HS?
No. The International Baccalaureate, with nearly 1,500 IB schools worldwide, sets high standards and rigorous course work and demands that all programs meet the same standards.
I am interested in teaching at GRC. What is that application process?
The application process for GRC teachers is currently under development. If you are interested, send an email to Nicole.DeVries@vbschools.com
