describes the philosophy
at the Design and Architecture Senior High also known as DASH. The
mission of this public magnet school is to provide a high level,
integrated education in design and academics, using both traditional
faculty and career professionals to facilitate learning within a
well-designed, state-of-the-art educational environment. The four-year
design career program culminates with field based design internships.
The principal has been able to hire specialized personnel from the
design industry to work with students and staff at the school. The
high morale and low turnover indicate the school is a desirable
place to work. To be a successful educator at DASH one must be flexible,
creative, energetic, a team player and able to motivate students.
Results: Teachers report
high morale; Low rate of teacher turnover; Student absentee rates
considerably lower than the district and state; School Grade: 2002
A; 2003 A.
Practices that Promote High Performance:
- Providing a high level integrated education with an extensive
hands on component
- Clearly articulating and focusing on the schools mission
- Being creative in using traditional and non-traditional strategies
to achieve academic and career goals
Design
and Architecture Senior High (DASH) builds extensively upon relationships
with community partners, creating a motivating learning environment.
An industry-related Advisory Board meets monthly to promote internship
and mentor programs, community relations and outreach opportunities,
fundraising, participation in school/industry/education opportunities
and curriculum ideas reflective of design industry standards. The
Advisory Board is composed of 36 professionals who give input into
curriculum and design and serve as a vital link between the school
and the community at large. Community partners, collectively referred
to as Friends of DASH, make unique contributions by sponsoring events;
bringing in live performances by internationally renowned artists;
creating press releases; providing mentorships, internships and sponsors
for both students and activities; providing awards/trophies for academic
achievement, attendance and special events; and donating art supplies
and materials. A web academy lab focusing on web design was established
through a Friends of DASH contribution. Additionally, a large grant
was received for Arts Related Technology for Entertainment Careers
to prepare students for technical careers in the film and entertainment
industry.
Results: FCAT School Accountability Data: Grade
nine reading mean scale score of 338 and mathematics mean scale score
of 335 as compared to district at 270 and 265 and state at 287 and
286 respectively. Grade ten scores of 342 in Reading and 355 in Mathematics
as compared with district scores of 284 and 302 and state scores of
303 and 319 respectively. FCAT writing 4.7 compared to district and
state averages of 3.8.
Practices that Promote High Performance:
- Utilizing community expertise in developing educational opportunities
and curriculum
- An Advisory Board that meets monthly to promote internship and
mentor programs
- Organizing and recognizing community partners who support programs
- Friends of DASH
The four-year design career program culminates in design internships
matching students with design professionals throughout Miami-Dade
County. The year long student internship, for one to two periods
a day, exposes students to the real world of design and provides
a truly unique perspective. The state-of-the-art equipment and facility
that houses DASH offers other unique opportunities including a college
preparatory program within an extended school day which utilizes
semester block scheduling, extensive dual enrollment opportunities
with local colleges and the use of adjunct instructors who enhance
the students' learning experiences. Academic programs include advanced
placement, honors, and standard level courses. The combination of
high academic standards and exceptional design curriculum allows
DASH students to compete for scholarships for the country's finest
colleges and universities.
Results: In 2002-2003 over $5.2 million in
scholarship dollars were offered the 121 graduating seniors.
Practices that Promote High
Performance:
- Internships matching students with professionals in the field
- Fusing academic achievement with real world application creating
high student motivation
- Extensive dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges
and universities
< Back to Case Studies
|
