The Pathways Innovation School is an “Early College High School.” In this scenario students who attend may receive an Associate’s Degree and High School Diploma in the same time that it takes to earn the high school credential. This program is made even more enticing by its ability to provide the Associate’s Degree to students at little or no cost.
The Innovation School is a true innovation and is one of many that have taken place in Mahar’s recent history. The clearly articulated vision, mission and core values provide a philosophical road map for members of the Mahar school community to move in an upward direction in student achievement, personal growth, school climate, partnerships, and school finance. In essence, district and school leaders use this plan to engage in student-centered decision making.
In 2008 the Ralph C. Mahar Regional School District entered into an agreement with the CAPS Educational Collaborative to provide educational services to students with severe disabilities on the Ralph C. Mahar Regional campus. The students come to Mahar from the Mahar Regional member towns of New Salem, Orange, Petersham and Wendell. Other students in the program are from surrounding school districts such as Gardner, Winchendon, and Barre.
During this academic year one student, a member of the class of 2011 asked her principal, Mr. Scott Hemlin if she could be allowed to work as a volunteer in one of the two CAPS classrooms that cater to students with special needs. In response to this request, and in accordance with the Ralph C. Mahar Core Values this young lady was provided with an opportunity to provide service to the students in the classroom. At the same time she earned high school credit toward graduation as she learned about the education of students with special needs. At the Class of 2011 Awards Ceremony on Wednesday night not many in attendance were surprised to learn that she will be going to college to become a teacher for children with special needs.
The CAPS/Mahar partnership was created in accordance with the Mahar Mission. The effect of this partnership was felt not only when Candace began working in the class. It was felt when the students in the class began to participate in Mahar student events such as the Senator Games – a competition in which each class competes in athletic events against one another. Even more emotional was the standing ovation that the entire Mahar student body gave to the CAPS students at a pep assembly after showing the medals that they won in the Special Olympics.
When the Class of 2012 (next year’s senior class) met with their guidance counselors to select their courses for the next academic year, even more students requested to work in the CAPS classrooms. When I heard that twelve students out of a senior class of 140 requested to be of service to the students in the CAPS classrooms, I was amazed. Our partnership not only provided opportunities for personal growth – it also improved our school culture. It will be our pleasure to show Secretary Reville the quality education that is offered to students in our regional district when he arrives tomorrow evening. The CAPS program is one of many opportunities our students have to learn and grow.
Please visit the Ralph C. Mahar Regional School website (www.rcmahar.org) to learn more. School choice applications are available on our website and are due in the Superintendent’s Office before July 1, 2011. Please do not hesitate to call with questions, or to request a tour of our facility.
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