Taking Worcester Tech first

Taking the item on the Worcester Technical High School out of order...
(it sounds like Dr. Boone has whatever is going around)
We're getting a report on the general advisory meeting that happened two weeks ago from Sheila Harrity, principal; Peter Crafts, director of vocational education; and Ted Coughlin, Chair of the Worcester Technical High School board.

1400 students: 51% female, 62% low income...about half white
Now getting a chart on MCAS passing rates in English and math, including a slide on the improvement of the students who enter the high school failing and get to passing. 78% passing in ELA, 70% passing in math
Whole school field trips for motivational speakers before the MCAS.

Added AP bio, English (2), will add AP Statistics
62% go on to higher ed

5200 hours provided in Green Hill Park every year as volunteers (under the settlement agreement that allowed for the building of the Tech school in the park)
Added 3-D Gaming to the Drafting program
Renewable Energy added to Electrical program
Volunteering at Heifer Project and Matthew 25
lots of showcasing of the technology used at the school in various programs: "crucial to keep us on the cutting edge of the programs"
Plan to add BioMedical Science (grant funded) for next year; Pharmacy Tech for 2012; Medical Assistant for 2012

After 15 years, the school was "planned, constructed, equipped" and now is serving students, according to Mr. Coughlin.
Worcester Technical Fund allows for continuous updating of technology, which Mr. Coughlin calls the "lifeblood" of the program.
Five year forecast of $2.7 million that they need, have raised 20% of it already