For Immediate Release
October 5, 2006
Contacts: David Ottalini, 301 405 4076 or dottalin@umd.edu

New UM Collaboration with MCPS Helps Northwood High Students Reach Their Dreams

Northwood High School is in Silver Spring, Maryland

WHAT:

The University of Maryland and Montgomery County Public Schools will announce a unique collaboration to help prepare Northwood High School students for success in college. The program aims to provide college campus experiences for students and professional development opportunities for
university graduate students.

WHEN:

Monday, October 9, 2006 at 1:00 p.m.

WHERE:

Northwood High School (Media Center)

919 University Boulevard, West

Silver Spring, MD
Map

BACKGROUND:

The University of Maryland and Montgomery County Public Schools are collaborating in a unique program to open the pathways to college. The Early College High School model provides opportunities for high school students to enroll in college courses on the UM campus, use the university library for coursework, and participate in field trips to university cultural events and other campus activities.

Because parents and students receive information about financial aid and college entry requirements early in the high school career, the program is particularly beneficial to families who have had little or no experience with the college admission process. Maryland faculty and graduate students also benefit from the program. Northwood High School classrooms will provide the setting for an intensive year-long professional development program for students seeking a master's degree in teaching. In addition, Northwood and UM faculty and students from both institutions will cooperate on research projects.

PARTICIPANTS:

Dr. James F. Harris, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, University of Maryland; Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent of schools; Dr. Charles Haughey, president of the Board of Education; students and school staff.

MEDIA:

Media coverage is welcome. Ample parking is available at Northwood High School.

CONTACT:

For more information, contact Dave Ottalini (University of Maryland) at 301-405-4076 or Brian Edwards (MCPS) 301-279-3853.

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