Portfolio Party December 22 , 2005

Eight students representing eight different classes at Hope Street Academy participated in a Portfolio Party, Tuesday, December 14, 2005, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Hope Street library.

The idea was that of Hope Street business teacher, Larry Brayton and curriculum coordinator, Laura Smith. Both have taken Graduate level classes involving schools and students showing portfolios as part of the student’s class. “I believe our students have a many things they do in classes that they can ‘show off’ to other students and parents,” said Brayton. After discussions with principal Bill Bagshaw, and Smith, Brayton brought up the idea to the Hope Street faculty at their in-service training on November 11.

“Many teachers were interested in this sort of self-promotion for the students. We all have students who are doing great work on their projects in our classes. It’s time we let them show off to others.” said Brayton.

The eight students were told to come up with any means to show other people (parents and students) what they have been doing in the class they represented. Many of them worked on the project during their class time.

The students prepared assignments in notebooks, posters, display boards, and PowerPoint presentations for display during the portfolio party.

Around forty students and parents came through the library to see the students work and visit with them. USD 501 Board of Education member, Ron Browning, attended and was impressed at the work the students and the discussions about their class.

The students from Hope Street Academy Extended Day Program also came through during their class to look at the different classes being offered in the regular day program.

Student Reflection . . .

Angelica Gomez (US History 3) - “It was fun.”

Lexie Proctor (Accelerated Reading & Current Social Issues) - “I think the Portfolio Party was a good way for students to learn more about certain classes. It would benefit the student instead of them just coming into a class and not knowing anything. And it was FUN!”

Aeriell Martinez (World History)- “I think it was great. I would do it again.”

Miranda Allen (Consumer Skills) - "I thought it was great. The parents that came seemed to enjoy it. I think it would help a lot of kids (who are) just coming to Hope Street so they (will) know what Hope Street is all about. I would definitely do it again!"

Jenni Smith (Art)-" I got the chance to talk to students that I had never met before. It was fun to meet new people and a great opportunity to tell people about the classes here at Hope Street Academy."

Veronica Lammer (Entrepreneurship) - "I enjoy being included in school events".