Proposed Resolution on a new Magnet High School

(proposed by David Lechner)

Whereas in-school programs are generally more cost-effective and can be made open to all students willing to meet entrance requirements and pursue the more rigorous curriculum, and

Whereas there appears to be no "very large grants from the Federal Government" available to create a new upcounty program (like there was for the Blair program when originally created), and

Whereas retention of highly capable High School students in their own home schools will help ensure that the home schools have better MSA Test Scores to meet Adequate Yearly Progress goals per NCLB Act, and

Whereas an International Baccalaureate (IB) program provides a standards based and world-wide recognized curriculum in a challenging program for highly motivated and capable students using a criterion referenced grading system, and

Whereas program opportunities in upcounty High Schools will open up additional program "slots"
At the Blair Magnet program for all MCPS students to apply towards;

Therefore:

Be it Further Resolved:

1)  That MCPS should alternatively consider creation IB programs at all upcounty high schools, and

2)  That MCPS shall additionally create or maintain complementary program components that focus on Science, Computers, and Mathematics at these High Schools, and

3)  That such new programs shall be open to students at those schools and from any other MCPS High School who are able to meet the program entrance criteria and provide their own transportation to the school or one of the bus stops supporting those schools.