Reading Reflection 2 - BPHS

I think that the internships that BPHS offer help with the students to be a professional role and help with their path to success. Another factor that had an impact on the school was the portfolios and the integrated units. This deflates the letter grade but shows off the students individual work which they can take pride in. And the last factor is having the strong support of student choice and leadership. Students are not recognized enough in schools and at BPHS they are being heard and respected.
One of the practices I saw at Mission Hills High School that connected to the Second to None book was that the students have an advanced learning opportunity. Every student is counseled by a school counselor to discuss what classes they will take the next semester and what requirements are needed for the college they are attending. This is a great opportunity for the students to have the support but it hinders the students since they are taken out of their regular classes to meet with the counselors. Also, Mission Hills High integrates program majors, such as culinary arts, criminal justice, a fire academy and a nursing program to help the students prepare for the workplace. I have talked to many students in these programs and they are so happy to be experiencing this in high school.
I like the idea of having “small schools” but realistically is not reality. Our population is forever growing and the school funding is not keeping up. The personalized teaching will slowly diminish and the student’s sense of belonging may weaken.