Parent Teacher Magazine Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools September 2014 | Page 14

A jump start on ninth grade

West Charlotte freshman prepare for high school through summer program

Sixty-three West Charlotte High rising ninth-graders recently
participated in a six-week freshman academy summer program which
offered two high school course options – literacy and math. Designed
to help students move successfully into high school, it gave students a
chance to meet teachers, become familiar with the school, make friends
and earn an elective credit.
“During ninth grade, incoming students encounter new emotions,
social situations and academic challenges.” said Gabrielle Sledge, a ninthgrade counselor at West Charlotte. “We offered this program to better
prepare them.”
The first day included getting-acquainted icebreaker activities and a
tour of the school. Students worked on formulas and strategies, developed
community projects and also focused on healthy living during the program.
“I picked the literacy class because it’s something I like but wanted to
get better at,” said Dajah Oglesdy. “I’m having fun while I’m learning. We
work as a group on many projects so I’m making new friends, too.”
CMS literacy specialist Roxanne Friday explained that the literacy
program was designed to boost students’ research, reading, writing and
speaking skills. The course was centered on global health issues. Students
read and researched topics