Student

Experience

Catalog

2017–2018 School Year

Student Experience Offerings

25 full time clubs

3 Talent Network programs

12 special events

1 online yearbook

© 2017 Connections Education LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome!

Connections Education is committed to offering our students the

widest possible range of extracurricular opportunities throughout the school year. This includes Clubs and Activities, the Talent

Networks, the Leadership Speaker Series, and the Yearbook. We have something to spark every student’s interest at all grade levels.

Participation in each of these Student Experience opportunities enhances student socialization as well as improves academic

achievement and school retention rates. All Student Experience extracurricular activities are non-credit and have no impact on student grades. Students are able to customize the way in which

they participate in Student Experience offerings. They can:

participate in LiveLesson sessions engage in Message Board discussions

converse with fellow club members via WebMail

messages listen to LiveLesson recordings posted in the Virtual Library create and submit work to be shared in LiveLesson

sessions, on Message Boards, or in the weekly E–News upload content into the yearbook

respond to polls and surveys in the yearbook hear from experts in particular fields

collaborate with peers

The Talent Networks are open to all full-time enrolled students in

CA, iNaCA, and certain CL schools. Students wanting to

participate in the Talent Networks must be in grades 6−12 and

apply to the program.

Student Experience

Page 3

Table of Contents

Clubs and Activities Sign Up pages 4 and 5

Art Club and Arts and Crafts Club pages 6 and 7 Brainteasers Club and Broadcast and Theater

Arts Club pages 8 and 9 Career Club and Chess Club pages 10 and 11

College Planning Club and Debate Club pages 12 and 13 Book and Digital Storytelling Club and

First Generation Club pages 14 and 15 Gaming and Technology Club and

Math Club I pages 16 and 17 Math Club II and Movie Club pages 18 and 19 Music Club and Pen Pals pages 20 and 21

Pens and Lens and Poetry Corner pages 22 and 23 Quiz Bowl and Robotics pages 24 and 25

Science Club and Sports Club pages 26 and 27 The Monitor Newspaper and Science Sleuths:

Weird Science pages 28 and 29 Science Sleuths: Wild Weather and

Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance pages 30 and 31 Talent Networks Overview pages 32 and 33

Talent Networks Application pages 34 and 35 Science and Technology Talent Network pages 36 and 37

Sports Talent Network pages 38 and 39 Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network pages 40 and 41

Special Events list, Cards for Kids, Dimension U pages 42 and 43 Fashion Design, Fan Frenzy Trivia, Music and Photography Contest pages 44 and 45

Sky Gazers, Virtual Art Gallery, Virtual BioBlitz, and Virtual Talent Show pages 46 and 47

Wacky Workouts and Yearbook Art Contest, Special Events List pages 48 and 49

Yearbook and Questions for the Clubs and Activities Coordinator pages 50 and 51

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How Do I Sign Up for Clubs and Activities?

To sign up for any of the clubs and activities we offer, have

your Caretaker log into Connexus® and find the Clubs and

Activities Sign-Up Sheet under the student’s blue icon.

GLCA students must use the form labeled GLCA. Once in the

Sign-Up Sheet, please click on the link at the top of the page

to view the Getting Started with Clubs and Activities presenta-

tion. Be sure to check the desired clubs, making sure to click

SAVE and FINISH so the placement team will see your choices.

Please note that it can take up to five days to place a student

in a club.

Caretakers, please note that enrolling your student in a club

serves as your consent to allow the student to participate in

this club and for Connections Academy, or your school, to

publish/display the submitted work, including your student’s

first name and last initial, to any audience, in any print or digi-

tal medium, including social media.

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Clubs and Activities:

Art Club

Arts and Crafts Club

Book and Digital Storytelling Club

Brainteasers Club

Broadcast &Theater Arts Club

Career Club

Chess Club

College Planning Club

Debate Club

First Generation Club

Gaming and Technology Club

Math Club I

Math Club II

The Monitor Newspaper

Movie Club

Music Club

Pen Pals

Pens and Lens Magazine

Poetry Corner

Quiz Bowl Club

Robotics Club

Science Club

Sports Club

Science Sleuths: Weird Science

Science Sleuths: Wild Weather

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Club Description: Art Club is designed to spark a student's creativity by ex-

ploring two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, photography, and digi-

tal art. Students are exposed to techniques and styles associated with each

medium and have the opportunity to create original designs and artwork.

In the weekly LiveLesson sessions, students share their artwork with peers,

learn about appropriate critique guidelines, and provide feedback to other

club members.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Mondays 3-4 p.m. (ET) and Wednesdays 1-2 p.m. (ET)

Art Club FAQ

Learn more about Art Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 7

Club Description: Arts and Crafts is a fun way for students to learn how to

turn household objects into works of art. The optional activities are easy, ed-

ucational, and thought-provoking. Crafts are presented in themes so that

students learn background information before constructing their original

products. Upon completion of an activity, students are encouraged to

share their artwork with friends, family, and others during the monthly Live-

Lesson sessions or by submitting pictures which will then be shared in the E–

News once a month.

Grade Level: K–8

LiveLesson® session days and times:

First and third Tuesdays of each month from 2-3 p.m. (ET).

Arts and Crafts Club FAQ

Learn more about Arts and Crafts Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 8

Club Description: Brainteasers provide students the opportunity to solve a

variety of puzzles and problems. The Brainteasers course containing puzzles

such as anagrams, crossword puzzles, crack the code, and logic grids are

available to all club members. In addition, students are encouraged to cre-

ate their own brainteasers to share on Message Board and student-made

publications.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

There are not any LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.

Brainteasers Club FAQ

Learn more about Brainteasers Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 9

Club Description: Broadcast and Theater Arts Club students learn about

choreography, set design, and tech crew, for on- and off-Broadway pro-

ductions. Working both individually and collaboratively, students are en-

couraged to write their own plays and musical scores. Students also learn

about the history and trends in broadcast media, exploring the print, audio,

and video mediums. LiveLesson session sessions provide opportunities for

students to share their theatrical talents as well as segments similar to those

on television news magazines.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

First and third Thursdays 2:00–3:00 p.m. (ET)

Broadcast and Theater Arts Club FAQ

Learn more about Broadcast and Theater Arts Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 10

Club Description: This club encourages middle and high school students

to learn about potential careers and explore fields that interest them.

Members identify and develop skills that will help them to be successful in

middle school, high school, college, and professionally. The club enables

middle school students to enter high school with more direction in mind,

making them more likely to embrace and succeed in a high school pro-

gram that prepares them for pursuing their career interests. It will allow

high school students to better focus on their goals after high school, in-

cluding applying to appropriate colleges or applying for jobs which align

with their interests and goals.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times: Tuesdays 1–2 p.m. (ET) or 2–3 p.m.

(ET)

MS: first and third Tuesdays of the month

HS: second and fourth Tuesdays of the month

Learn more about Career Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 11

Introduction to Chess is for students who are beginners and are ready to

enter the world of chess in eight 30-minute lessons. Club members learn,

socialize, and play in an atmosphere of friendly competition. After com-

pleting an online tutorial, students have 24/7 access to our exclusive Con-

nections Education gaming site where they can request to play against

competitors of the same skill level, and the games begin. In the spring, all

Chess Club members are encouraged to compete in the national Match

Madness tournament.

Advanced Chess allows students to increase their skill in the game of chess

as students focus more on strategy than the workings of the game. After

completing several required lessons, students are able to compete 24/7

with another member using our exclusive Connections Education gaming

site. In the spring, all Chess Club members are encouraged to compete in

the national Match Madness tournament at the end of the school year. The

winner of the Advanced bracket is invited to a special Chess Tournament

held at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) during which

the winner competes in a series of games against a UMBC Chess

Grandmaster.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times: Thursdays 2-3 (ET) or Fridays 2–3 (ET)

Introductory: first Thursday of the month

Advanced: first Friday of the month

Chess Club FAQ

Learn more about Chess Club in the Virtual Library.

Club Description: College Planning Club is designed for ninth through

twelfth grade students who are considering college. Members are guided

through the college preparation and admissions process including: college

planning, building and producing a resume, identifying career interests and

potential majors, researching colleges, completing applications and identi-

fying financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Members develop a port-

folio that focuses on elements sought by college admissions committees.

Grade Level: 9–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Wednesdays 2-3 p.m. (ET); first and third Wednesdays of the month

College Planning Club FAQ

Learn more about College Planning Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 12

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Club Description: Members learn internationally-recognized debate proce-

dures and put them into practice during LiveLesson sessions. Participation

involves learning the art of public speaking and critical thinking while work-

ing as collaborative teams. Research, reasoning, and understanding op-

posing perspectives form the foundation for moderated debates.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

First and third Thursdays of the month from 2:00–3:00 p.m. (ET)

Debate Club FAQ

Learn more about Debate Club in the Virtual Library.

Club Description: Book and Digital Storytelling provides the opportunity for

students to bring storytelling to the 21st century using a variety of web-

based tools that incorporate pictures and audio. Student stories are shared

with peers through LiveLesson sessions for feedback. In addition, students

also discuss their favorite books they have read with other club members.

Grade Level: K–5; 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Tuesdays from 3-4 p.m. (E.T.)

ELEM: Oct. 24, Nov. 14, Dec. 5, Jan. 16, Feb. 13, Mar. 13, Apr. 10, May 1

MS/HS: Oct. 31, Nov. 28, Dec. 12, Jan. 30, Feb. 27, Mar. 27, Apr. 24, May 8

Digital Storytelling Club FAQ

Learn more about Digital Storytelling Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 14

Club Description: First-Generation Club is for students in grades 9-12 who

aspire to be the first in their families to graduate from college. This club pro-

vides mentoring, advice, and personal development activities to help

members understand, plan, and prepare for the college application and

admissions process. LiveLesson sessions and Message Boards support and

encourage discussion. Members develop a portfolio that includes elements

sought by college admissions committees.

Grade Level: 9–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Wednesdays 2-3 p.m. (ET); second and fourth Wednesdays of the month

First Generation Club FAQ

Learn more about First Generation Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 15

Club Description: Gaming and Computer Technology Club is for students

who have an affinity for computers and gaming as they explore and dis-

cuss gaming strategies, computer security, gaming and technology ca-

reers, and new product reviews. Individual and collaborative projects may

include designing applications and games for others to enjoy, and creating

personal websites.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Mondays 1–2 p.m. (ET)

MS: Oct. 16, Oct. 30, Nov. 13, Dec. 4, Jan. 8, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Mar. 5, Mar.

19, Apr. 9, Apr. 23, May 7

HS: Oct. 23, Nov. 6, Nov. 27, Dec. 11, Dec. 22, Feb. 5, Feb. 26, Mar. 12, Mar.

26, Apr. 16, May 30

Gaming and Technology Club FAQ

Learn more about Gaming and Technology Club in the Virtual Li-brary.

Page 16

Club Description: Members take part in a math competition by playing in-

teractive games on the First in Math® website. The online play reinforces a

wide range of skills, from simple addition to solving for x- and y-variables.

Students work at their own pace, and earn points as they master various

concepts and practice test-prep exercises geared to appropriate grade

levels. Monthly LiveLesson sessions allow for students to collaboratively en-

gage in mathematical activities.

Grade Level: First in Math: K–8

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Fridays 3–4 p.m. (ET)

K-4: Oct. 20, Nov. 3, Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 2, Mar. 2, Apr. 6, May 4

5-8: Oct. 27, Nov. 17, Dec. 15, Jan. 26, Feb. 16, Mar. 16, Apr. 20, May 11

Math Club I FAQ

Learn more about Math Club I in the Virtual Library.

Page 17

Club Description: Fourth through eighth graders compete in the international

Mathematical Olympiads. These gifted and talented math students meet

twice a month: first to review high-level problem-solving strategies and tech-

niques, and next to apply their skills in the official completion and accrue

points that will determine annual winners.

Grade Level: 4–6; 6–8

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 1–2 p.m. (ET)

ELEM: Nov. 7 & 14, Dec. 5 & 12, Jan. 9 & 16, Feb. 6 & 13, Feb. 27 & Mar. 6

MS: Nov. 8 & 15, Dec. 6 & 13, Jan. 10 & 17, Feb. 7 & 14, Feb. 28 & Mar. 7

Math Club II FAQ

Learn more about Math Club II in the Virtual Library.

Page 18

Club Description: Movie Club members learn about film genres, acting,

special effects, and musical compositions around monthly themes. Student

film buffs gain opportunities to demonstrate their creativity and collaborate

with others to create their own movies as part of a virtual showcase.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Select Wednesdays 3-4 p.m. (ET)

Movie Club Schedule

Movie Club FAQ

Learn more about Movie Club in the Virtual Library.

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Club Description: Music Club is for students who enjoy performing, compos-

ing, or listening to music. Members explore various musical genres, elements

of music, and have opportunities to collaborate and exercise their creativi-

ty by designing their own musical instruments and compositions. Students

will also be able to participate in a virtual showcase and talent exhibitions.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Select Tuesdays from 3–4 p.m. (ET)

Music Club Schedule

Music Club FAQ

Learn more about Music Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 20

Club Description: Pen Pals is a new twist on a classic way to build friend-

ships. Students develop their skills in letter writing and penmanship while

making friends with other Connections Education students. Message Boards

allow students to share common interests, hobbies, and experiences.

Grade Level: K–12

There are no LiveLesson® sessions associated with this club.

Pen Pals FAQ

Learn more about Pen Pals in the Virtual Library.

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Club Description: Pens and Lens is our monthly web-based magazine which

recognizes and publishes original short stories, poetry, and photography.

Students of all ability levels are encouraged to participate and inspire one

another’s literary and photographic endeavors through monthly submis-

sions.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

There are no LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.

Pens and Lens FAQ

Learn more about Pens and Lens in the Virtual Library.

Club Description: Middle and high school writers work together to explore

the language of poetry. Twice monthly LiveLesson sessions are held to share

and critique work and allow students to read their original poems on the

microphone or webcam.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Fridays from 1–2 (ET)

Poetry Corner Schedule

Poetry Corner FAQ

Learn more about Poetry Corner in the Virtual Library.

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Club Description: Members compete in weekly academic competitions,

applying their knowledge of fun facts and trivia. Students with the highest

percentage of correct answers to course questions are recognized at the

end of the year in the E-News and receive certificates and prizes.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

There are no LiveLesson sessions associated with this club.

Quiz Bowl FAQ

Learn more about Quiz Bowl in the Virtual Library.

Page 24

Club Description: Robotics Club guides members through the exciting world

of robots as they learn to define what a robot is (and what it isn't!), study

the myths that surround robots, examine how robots are used in media,

and consider how robots assist humans. Selected students will have access

to program a virtual robot through an online program.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Thursdays from 1-2 (ET)

Robotics Club Schedule

Robotics Club FAQ

Learn more about Robotics Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 25

Club Description: Science Club students learn about various science topics

and work with the scientific method to plan their own experiments and

make observations about the world around them. Students can perform

experiments at home then share the processes and results with their peers in

LiveLesson® sessions and on the Message Board.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Select Tuesdays 2–3 p.m. (ET)

Science Club Schedule

Science Club FAQ

Learn more about Science Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 26

Club Description: Sports Club students who enjoy athletics explore a variety

of sporting activities. Members discuss the similarities and differences of sea-

sonal sports and have the opportunity to learn about training techniques

and fitness programs. Students also compete during LiveLesson sessions in

Last Student Standing and warm-up activities.

Grade Level: K–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Wednesdays 2–3 p.m. (ET)

Sports Club Schedule

Sports Club FAQ

Learn more about Sports Club in the Virtual Library.

Page 27

Club Description The Monitor is Connections Education’s student-

managed, student-staffed newspaper. Our writers and editors work togeth-

er to write and organize content for sections of the newspaper including

news, entertainment, sports, and school happenings.

Grade Level: 6–12

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Mondays 2–3:00 p.m. (ET)

The Monitor Newspaper FAQ

Learn more about The Monitor Newspaper in the Virtual Library.

Page 28

Club Description Be a science sleuth and investigate the weirder

side of science. Follow along with fun by completing a hands-on

activities that will leave you scratching your head! Collaborate with

other club members through discussions and sharing your results on

the Message Boards. This club will also meet twice a year in a Live-

Lesson room to take a look at everyone’s results.

Grade Level: K-5

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Select Thursdays 3–4:00 p.m. (ET), January 18 and May 3.

Weird Science FAQ

Learn more about Weird Science in the Virtual Library.

Page 29

Club Description: Be a science sleuth and investigate weather’s

wild side. Follow along with fun by completing a hands-on activities

that will leave you amazed! Collaborate with other club members

through discussions and sharing your results on the Message Boards.

This club will also meet twice a year in a LiveLesson room to take a

look at everyone’s results.

Grade Level: K-5

LiveLesson® session days and times:

Select Thursdays 3–4:00 p.m. (ET), February 1 and May 10.

Wild Weather FAQ

Learn more about Wild Weather in the Virtual Library.

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Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance Document

Clubs and Activities At-a-Glance document serves as a fast facts type

document for each club. It can be found in the Virtual Library under

Clubs and Activities.

Clubs and Activities Team

Jaime Waggoner

Tabitha Lee

Amanda Dice

Christina Schwartz

Olivia Wisniewski

Laura Strattan

Lisa Baldwin

If you have any questions related to clubs or signing up for clubs, please

send a WebMail message to the Clubs and Activities Coordinator.

Page 31

Connections Education® offers three different Talent Networks: the Sports Talent Network, the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Net-

work, and the Science and Technology Talent Network. These Tal-ent Networks are virtually facilitated programs designed for en-

rolled middle and high school Connections Academy® students who are actively involved in competitive sports, the visual and per-forming arts, or advanced STEM coursework (science, technology,

engineering, and mathematics). These programs provide students in grades 6-12 the opportunity to network with other students in

their fields of interest, interact with guest speakers, and take part in projects and competitions to help students excel in their areas of

interest. The Talent Networks are facilitated at a national level by the Talent Networks team, and include:

exploring college and career options

student-focused groups and activities networking and collaboration opportunities between

like-minded students enrichment activities, including presentations by artists,

athletes, professionals in the field, and subject matter experts lettering opportunities

Students who wish to participate in the Talent Networks must apply using a data view application permissioned to their Caretakers.

Application Opens: August 21, 2017

Application Closes: January 8, 2018

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Lettering

Students accepted into the Talent Networks have the opportunity to

letter in the spring of each school year. Lettering offers Talent Net-work members the opportunity to flourish within their Talent Network

by demonstrating exceptionality in three categories: Leadership, Participation, and Attendance. Students who go above and beyond

and exhibit high levels of consistent participation, engagement and commitment to their Talent Network will receive their letter during the

Virtual Lettering Ceremony.

Applying to the Talent Network

To apply to a Talent Networks, a student must already be enrolled full

-time in a Connections Academy School, iNaCA, or select Connec-tions Learning schools. The Talent Networks application consists of a

submission of artifacts documenting the student’s experience, tal-ents, and desire to participate in the Talent Net-works. Applications are accepted during four application windows on a rolling admis-

sions basis.

Window Application Cut-

off Date

Applicants Notified/

Sectioned

1 Sept. 25, 2017 Oct. 2, 2017

2 Oct. 23, 2017 Oct. 30, 2017

3 Nov. 20, 2017 Nov. 27, 2017

4 Jan. 8, 2018 Jan. 16, 2018

Application Process and Timeline

Students enrolled in a Connections Education full-time program may apply to one of the Talent Networks. Students may apply to additional

networks upon completion of their first year in the program.

The Talent Networks application consists of a submission of artifacts documenting the student’s experience, talents, and desire to partici-pate in the Talent Networks. The application is made available to

Caretakers under the student’s Data View in Connexus® at the start of the application window, provided the student has been enrolled for at

least 30 days. Please view the How to Apply to the Talent Networks tu-torial for specific instructions on completing and submitting an applica-

tion.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis starting August 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. (ET) and closing on January 8, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. (ET). There will

be four application windows. Students will receive a notification of the admission committee’s decision via a WebMail message no later than

one week following the submission deadline. Those accepted will be sectioned into their Talent Network course in Connexus shortly thereaf-

ter. Application statuses will be confirmed according to the dates on the chart on the previous page. Students accepted into the Talent Networks will begin participating in a variety of activities, such as Live-

Lesson® sessions, networking opportunities, collaborative projects, and many other amazing activities.

Page 34

Participation Expectations

Students accepted into the Talent Networks will be encouraged to

actively participate in their Talent Network by attending LiveLesson sessions, communicating and collaborating with fellow program

members, contributing to Message Board topics and discussions, and engaging in competitions, contests, and other specialized activ-

ities. Although students are encouraged to participate, all Talent Network activities are optional. Students in the Talent Networks who

demonstrate high levels of participation and commitment will be eli-gible to letter.

For more information, send a WebMail message to the

Talent Network Program Coordinator

Page 35

The Science and Technology Talent Network is available for students

who demonstrate talent in science, technology, engineering, and/or math. Components of the Science and Technology Talent Net-

work include project based learning activities, collaborative pro-jects, and networking opportunities devoted to fostering growth in

the STEM disciplines. Science and Technology Talent Network mem-bership is an ideal way for students to cultivate their burgeoning tal-

ents, enrich their academic lives, and enjoy opportunities to interact with other like-minded students and professionals. Students with ad-vanced abilities gain exposure to today’s cutting-edge innovations

through guest experts from such fields as robotics, environmental sci-ence, and astronomy. Past experts have included a NASA engineer

and with environmental scientists, and STEM colleges and universi-ties. A variety of competitions and learning activities are provided in

order to inspire students and challenge students. The following are examples of the types of activities and programs that could be

made available through the Science and Technology Talent Net-work:

Virtual BioBlitz

Students created an interactive website which included student-

submitted images of plants and animals from across the United

States and around the world. The interactive map allowed students

to focus on geographic regions. Additional pages highlighted en-

dangered and extinct species. This website was student created

and maintained.

The Stock Market Game

Students work collaboratively to invest a virtual $100,000 in stocks for

an online portfolio. Students research companies and discuss stock

options as well as determine how much money and in which com-

panies to invest in order to create the most profitable portfo-

lio. Decisions made by the team are analyzed and applied in real

time using the New York Stock Exchange.

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Our Sports Talent Network connects student-athletes—including promising future Olympians—from across the nation so they can net-

work and collaborate with other exceptional athletes. Here they can share training tips, discover strategies to improve sport perfor-

mance, and learn about the journey to becoming an elite athlete. Sports Talent Network members participate in activities including fit-

ness challenges, sports training workshops, mentoring opportunities, and interacting with professionals in the arena. Previous guest speak-

ers for the Sports Talent Network have included professional and

Olympic athletes, nutritionists, sports writers, and sports broadcasters.

Sports Talent Network members explore and learn through work-

shops. Workshops are facilitated by teachers, guest speakers, and students and cover sports-related topics such as fitness, sports nutri-

tion, sports management, sports psychology, careers in sports, and life after sports. The workshops are conducted via LiveLesson® ses-sion where student−athletes are active participants and engaged in

the learning. Workshop components include:

Page 38

Student Mentoring Program – The Sports Talent Network Peer Mentor

Program pairs compatible student athletes by assigning a mentor and a mentee. Mentors share experiences, knowledge, and strate-

gies with their mentees for success in balancing school, life, and sport. Student mentees look to their mentors as a resource for ad-

vice and assistance with any challenges they may face in their jour-ney to becoming an elite athlete. The Sports Talent Network Peer

Mentor Program seeks to create and develop lasting relationships among like-minded students and provide a networking opportunity

for student-athletes who share similar areas of expertise.

The Sports Talent Network Peer Mentor program helps students de-velop skills in leadership, organization, team building, listening and problem solving.

Sports Talent Network students engage in Collaborative Chat ses-

sions via LiveLesson® session. Chat sessions allow students to connect virtually using the web camera, microphone, or the chat pod to

share and discuss upcoming competitions, events, and other inter-ests in both sports and non-related sports topics. Students use the

chat session as an avenue to connect with other student-athletes discussing subjects ranging from their practice schedules to their fa-

vorite books.

Page 39

The Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network is a virtually facilitated program designed for full-time enrolled middle and high school Con-

nections Academy® students who are actively involved in the visual and performing arts. The Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network

offers opportunities for networking and collaborating, and enriching experiences to improve students’ talents and enhance their aca-

demic lives. Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network membership is an ideal way to connect with like-minded students and explore col-

lege and career options.

Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network students engage in Col-laborative Chat sessions via LiveLesson® session. Chat sessions allow students to connect virtually using the web camera, microphone, or

the Chat pod to share and discuss upcoming competitions, events, and various other interests like the latest recording software or new

trends in digital art.

It is valuable for students to have the opportunity to interact with field professionals in order to help students obtain a more meaning-

ful learning experience. Previous guest speakers have included tele-vision show producers, actresses, animators, musicians, and dancers.

Members of the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network are pro-

vided with leadership opportunities in the Broadcast and Theater Arts Club, Art Club, and the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Net-work where they can share their knowledge and experiences with

other students. Members participate in collaborative and independ-ent projects. In addition, Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network

members play a key role in evaluating and critiquing Virtual Talent Show candidates.

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The Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network is a virtually facilitated time enrolled middle and high school Con-

nections Academy® students who are actively involved in the visual

offers opportunities for networking and collaborating, and enriching

demic lives. Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network membership is minded students and explore col-

laborative Chat sessions via LiveLesson® session. Chat sessions allow students to connect virtually using the web camera, microphone, or

the Chat pod to share and discuss upcoming competitions, events,

ful learning experience. Previous guest speakers have included tele-vision show producers, actresses, animators, musicians, and dancers.

other students. Members participate in collaborative and independ-

Members of the Visual and Performing Arts

Talent Network learn skills that enhance their skills as perform-ing artists as well as a variety of strategies designed to encour-

age success in the business of the visual and performing arts

fields.

Page 41

Special Events

Special Events are open to all full time Connections

Academy, iNaCA, and some Connections Learning students.

There is no sign up required. Some events are contests while

others may allow students to share their talents or to partici-

pate in LiveLesson sessions. Below is a list of the Special Events

offered by the Student Experience team.

Cards for Kids

DimensionU™ Tournaments

Fashion Design Challenge

Fan Frenzy Trivia

Music Contest

Photography Contest

Sky Gazers

Virtual Art Gallery

Virtual BioBlitz

Virtual Talent Show

Wacky Workouts

Yearbook Art Contest

Caretakers, please note that the submission of your student’s original work

serves as your consent to allow the student to participate in this event

and for Connections Academy, or your school, to publish/display the sub-

mitted work, including your student’s first name and last initial, to any au-

dience, in any print or digital medium, including social media.

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Cards for KidsStudents in all grades are encouraged to design greeting cards

which will be distributed to sick children in Baltimore area hospitals. Submissions will be accepted starting January 2, 2018— February 7,

2018 Send cards via the U.S Postal Service to:

Student Experience ATTN: Amanda Dice 10960 Grantchester Way 3rd Floor Columbia, MD 21044

Cards for Kids flier

DimensionU™ Tournaments Students in grades 3–12 have access to DimensionU™ from their home pages. During each tournament period, the student with the highest score and the highest logged hours will be announced as

the winner in the Clubs and Activities newsletter. Prizes will be awarded for top scorers. See the directions for Installing Dimen-

sionM. There will be tournaments for DimensionM and for Dimen-sionL. Monthly tournaments allow students to reinforce skills and

compete. The dates are below.

Oct. 24– Nov. 10

Nov. 21 – Dec. 8 Jan. 9– Jan 26

Feb. 6 – Feb. 23 March 6 – March 23

April 3 – April 27

DimensionU™ Tournaments flier

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Fashion Design Challenge Original fashion designs in one of several categories will be accept-

ed, compiled, and then shared in an eBook.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Art Club

Coordinator from February 1 – February 28. Winners will be an-nounced on March 26.

Fashion Design Challenge flier

Fan Frenzy Trivia

All Connections students are invited to participate in our Fan Frenzy sports trivia tournament. Students can compete in one of two brack-

ets: Minor League (grades K-5) or Major League (grades 6-12). Tournaments begin in February.

Fan Frenzy flier

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Music ContestOriginal music is submitted in various music genres by students in all

grades. Submissions can be created by individuals or groups, on traditional instruments or using the Connections Education Virtual Music tool. Students are limited to one submission and all students

are given the opportunity to vote for their favorite songs in each genre.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Clubs

and Activities Coordinator from January 2–February 16.

Music Contest flier

Photography ContestStudents in all grades may submit one photograph. Categories are color, black and white, or digitally manipulated photographs. All

photographs are shared on a website and winners are selected by a committee of teachers.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Clubs

and Activities Coordinator from February 12–March 16.

Photography Contest flier

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Sky GazersDo you wonder what is really out there in outer space? Then this is the Special Event for you! Students from all grades will gather month-ly in LiveLesson sessions to discuss which constellations, planets, and

other objects are visible in the night sky. Information about different satellites and other man-made objects that humans have put into

space will also be shared. Students are encouraged to create presentations related to any aspect of astronomy that they would

like to learn more about.

Submissions for inclusion in LiveLesson sessions should be created as a Microsoft® PowerPoint presentation and attached to a WebMail

message sent to the Clubs and Activities Coordinator. LiveLesson ses-sions will be held on the select Thursdays of the month at 3:00 p.m. (ET).

Star Gazers flier

Virtual Art Gallery

Original artwork is submitted in the various genres by students in all

grades. The accepted art forms are sketches, drawings, paintings,

digital art (excluding photography), and sculpture. Students are lim-

ited to one submission. Submissions must be labeled with the stu-

dent’s name, grade, school, and title of artwork.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Visual

and Performing Talent Network Coordinator from January 8 – Febru-ary 9. There are not any LiveLesson sessions associate with this con-

test.

Virtual Art Gallery flier

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Virtual BioBlitz Join students of all ages from around the country in identifying differ-

ent species from the natural world! In this Virtual BioBlitz, Connections students will submit the different animal and plant species they see in their neighborhoods. They will then be able to see how the flora

and fauna around the country compares with what is found in their own backyard.

Bio-Blitz Challenge flier

Virtual Talent Show

Students in grades 6–12 submit video files of a song, dramatic read-ing, or dance routine to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy

Coordinator. All submissions will be judged. The top five students will perform live in LiveLesson session. From those five participants, mem-

bers of the Visual and Performing Arts Talent Network will determine the first, second, and third place winners.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy Coordinator.

Virtual Talent Show flier

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Wacky WorkoutsAre you looking for a way to exercise while having fun? Students in all grades are invited to attend LiveLesson workout sessions. A 30-

minute series of beginner/advanced cardio and strength exercises will be led by Mrs. Schwartz and Sports Club students—webcams en-

couraged! All sessions begin at 2:00 pm (ET).

Oct. 20 and 27

Nov. 8 and 29 Dec. 8 and 15

Jan. 17 and 31 Feb. 14 and 28

Mar. 14 and 28 Apr. 11 and 25

May 4 and 11

Yearbook Art Contest

All students are invited to submit one entry designed around the se-

lected theme for the year via WebMail message sent to the Clubs and Activities Coordinator. Each year, the winning submission of the

Yearbook Art Contest is displayed on the yearbook landing page.

Submissions are accepted via WebMail message sent to the Clubs and Activities Coordinator from September 15—October 3.

Yearbook Art Contest flier

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Which Special Event Is

Right for You?

Cards for Kids

DimensionU™ Tournaments

Fashion Design Challenge

Fan Frenzy Trivia

Music Contest

Photography Contest

Sky Gazers

Virtual Art Gallery

Virtual BioBlitz

Virtual Talent Show

Workout

Yearbook Art Contest

See the Special Events flier and remember that

since there is no need to sign up for Special Events, you can simply participate as your schedule allows.

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YearbookStudents in all grades are encouraged to visit the online year-book and upload content onto their student page. Be sure to

see the 2016-2017 Connector Yearbook: Leave Your Mark. Once in the yearbook, students can:

upload pictures to personal and club pages

upload videos to personal and club pages respond to polls and surveys

autograph other student’s pages connect with other students and teachers

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Send the Clubs and Activities Coordinator a

WebMail Message