Program of Studies
As a student at one of the oldest college preparatory schools in Maine
and New England, you will be part of a long line of distinguished
learners at Washington Academy. Listed below are the courses offered
in 2003-2004, arranged alphabetically by department. Click on a department
link below to skip directly to those courses.
Art
Career Technology
English & Literature
English as a Second Language
TOEFL
Foreign Languages
Health
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Science
Social Studies
Special Education
Technology
Vocational Programs
Marine Vocational Technology
Maine Career Advantage
ART
"An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one."- Charles Horton Cooley
Art 1
The first semester introduces the student to the basic elements of
drawing, design and typography, line, shape space, value, and texture.
Students will experiment with a variety of mediums including pencil,
charcoal, pastel, pen and ink, sumi brush, scratchboard, and linoleum
cut prints. The second semester presents students with problems of
elementary color theory, painting techniques and three-dimensional
design. Projects will include watercolor, color pencil, tempera paint,
clay, and paper mache.
Art II
Enthusiastic and/or talented students who have completed Art I will refine their artistic skills and self-expression through a series of projects concerning landscapes, figure studies, portraiture, still-life, interiors and industrial design. Students will study examples of past and present art.
Honors Art
This class prepares highly motivated students who wish to pursue the fine arts, commercial design or other art related careers. Students will explore drawing, painting, printmaking or sculpture before they choose one area as the focus of their advanced creative work.
CAREER TECHNOLOGY
"The golden opportunity you are seeking is in yourself."-Orison Swett Marden
Computer Concepts I
Freshman will develop a strong foundation in the computer techniques they need for success in school and work. Using Microsoft Word, students will learn the fundamentals of word processing including skills like keyboarding, writing personal and business letters, and preparing term papers with footnotes.
Advanced Computer Concepts
The Advanced Computer Concepts class teaches students to use the Internet's various search engines and databases for research, and then evaluate that information for accuracy and reliability. Students will use Microsoft Word to compile the results of their research into charts, tables and reports.
Introduction to Computers
Students will learn the basic components of a computer and the different types of software. Computer hardware from the motherboard to the mouse will be explained, and then students will learn how software programs bring the hardware to life. Students will be introduced to software that manages computer files, creates documents, performs mathematical calculations, organizes data, and plays digital music and movies.
Computer Applications
This class shows the student how to use computers to help them meet their future goals. Students will research potential schools or employers, download applications and information about schools and businesses. The student will also learn to write useful application letters, college essays and resumes.
Microsoft Word/ Microsoft PowerPoint
This class will teach the student how to use the full-featured word
processing program, Microsoft Word, to create professional documents
and to revise them easily. Using the graphics program Microsoft PowerPoint
students will learn to produce professional presentations that can
be shown either on a laptop or desktop computer screen or shown like
a slideshow on a screen. Both of these programs will give the student
important skills that can be used for reports in school, college or
sharing ideas in the workplace.
Microsoft Access/Microsoft Excel
Students will learn Microsoft Access, a database program that lets you manage information from address books, inventories and records. Using Microsoft Excel, a spreadsheet program, students will learn to organize data in worksheets and charts, complete calculations, graph data, and then share Excel files on the Web.
Electronic Desktop Publishing
Students will learn to make newsletters and brochures and produce
pages like those in magazines and books using professional-level software
such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe PageMaker. Students can practice
their desktop publishing skills by helping design the high school
yearbook and the school newspaper or posters and programs for school
events.
Visual BASIC Language
This class teaches computer-programming fundamentals using the computer
language Visual Basic 6.0. Students will learn to write programs that
tell the computer to do simple tasks, such as responding to a typed
prompt, and move on to more complex problems that engage their creativity
and analytic skills.
C++ Programming
This challenging computer language course is for the student who wants to study computer programming at the college level. Students will be introduced to the basic C++ programming structures and techniques as well as C++ object-oriented programming features.
HTML
This class will teach students how to use HTML (hypertext mark-up
language) to build their own Web site. Students will enjoy the technical
challenges as well as the creativity of making their own off-line
site, which they can place on the Internet at the completion of the
class.
Accounting
Students will learn how to manage finances for both business and personal life. Keeping records and ledgers, understanding financial statements and basics of the financial cycle will be introduced.
Advanced Accounting
Students will learn to maintain financial records for efficient business and personal financial management. Students will learn to use computerized spreadsheets to manage financial data.
Office Technology
This class prepares students for entry-level jobs in business or for advanced education in the area of office work. Students will learn proper filing procedures, become proficient in the touch method of operating the 10-key electronic calculator keyboard and learn to use the transcribing machine. Methods of finding employment and proper interviewing will also be covered. An option is provided for the student to complete 5 days of actual on-the-job work experience.
Taxes and Personal Finance
Personal Finance and Taxes gives students the financial survival skills
to manage their money from allowances to paychecks. They will learn
to plan a budget, manage a checking account, use a credit card wisely,
apply for loans, choose the right insurances, and maximize your savings.
This class will also explain how taxation works and prepare students
to fill out the basic forms of income taxes on the state and federal
levels.
ENGLISH LITERATURE & WRITING
"Books are a finer world within the world."-Alexander Smith
Freshman Writing/Literature A
Daily writing in this class helps the student master grammar and get
a taste of the many different types of writing from formal research
papers to personal essays. Students will learn the process of writing
from the first idea through revisions to the final draft. Poetry,
short stories and drama will be examined and discussed, and a Shakespearean
play will be the focus of an in-depth study. Students will have the
opportunity to practice speaking skills in class discussions. A library
and computer lab orientation will be provided.
Freshman Writing/Literature B
This course expands on the skills learned in Literature. Nonfiction and the novel will be added to the literature studied. Classes will hone vocabulary, speaking and reasoning skills with frequent writing and class discussion. A written research project will pull together writing, thinking and library skills.
Sophomore Writing/Literature A
This challenging course prepares students for college. Communicating ideas to others through presentations, projects and research will be covered. Reading and interpreting a variety of literature, including mythology, short stories, novels, poetry, and plays, will expand understanding of literary history. Writing will be practiced daily in a journal.
Sophomore Writing/Literature B
This general English course develops written and oral communication skills. Students will write several types of essays, a short story, original poetry, and a research paper. Literature including mythology, short stories, novels, poetry, and plays will be the subject of class discussions, group projects and oral presentations. Grammar skills will be reinforced and vocabulary enhanced.
Junior Writing /American Literature A and B
Precision in written expression, oral communications and analytic thinking will be the goal as students study a selection of the novels, short stories and poems in American literature.
Advanced Placement English 4
Students who excel in English have an opportunity to earn college
credit while still in secondary school. The emphasis is on the development
of critical reading skills of literature and the ability to write
scholarly essays about literature. Students will discuss ideas, give
and accept feedback from peers. Students are also expected to read
and write about novels and plays over the summer. Reaction papers,
approach papers, and a year -long exploration of a noted author, culminating
in an in-depth research paper will be included. Advanced Placement
English 4 requires students to take the National AP Examination.
Senior Writing /English Literature A
This course involves a concentrated study of English literature. Emphasis
will be on the study, analysis, and interpretation of works in both
a literary and historical context. Proficiency in written and oral
expression will be stressed. Requirements for the course include grammar
and composition mastery, and extensive reading in English literature.
Students are expected to master the research process culminating in
a research paper. Other requirements include outside readings and
the maintaining of a working literary portfolio.
Senior Writing/English Literature B
Students will begin the year with a program emphasizing the development
of study skills. This includes note taking, memorization techniques,
and preparing for exams. A research paper on a topic of personal interest
will be assigned in the first semester. The second semester involves
an in-depth study of English literature and a continuation of written
and oral communication.
Creative Writing
Students who want to try their hand at writing poetry, short stories or even a play can learn the skills and techniques in this class. Students will learn how to write a sonnet or craft a suspenseful plot. Students should expect to write often and to share work with others. A selection of poems will be assigned for reading.
Oral Communications
This class provides a thorough understanding of effective oral communication.
Students will learn how to give speeches that inform, persuade, entertain
or sell. Students will find out what factors affect how a listener
responds to what is said and how to improve the impression one makes
on an audience.
Journalism
This class gives a background in the many facets of journalism, as
well as hands-on experience. This course teaches the student how to
gather news, write features and articles, edit work, design pages,
photograph news subjects, and understand the laws that affect journalism.
Students will collaborate on and contribute to the school's newspaper,
"Student Voice."
Film and Video Production I
This year-long course explores the art of filmmaking through the study
of the film industry from an historical perspective. Great filmmakers
and classic films will be studied. Students will gain a deeper appreciation
for film as an art form and have an opportunity to develop personal
criteria for evaluating films. The class will provide the chance to
explore career options within the movie industry and learn the basics
of movie making with the digital camera and editing equipment.
Theater 1
This course is designed to give students an overview of theater. Students will read and write plays to learn play analysis and structure. Students will also perform scenes and attend professional and amateur theater productions to learn acting skills such as improvisation and voice control. The history of theater will also be studied.
Theater 2
Building on the background of Theater I, this course teaches the basic skills of play production, both individual and group performances. Skills to be stressed are voice training, memorization techniques, critical theater analysis, textual script analysis, and production techniques.
ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)
"A different language is a different vision of life. "- Federico Fellini
Beginning ESL, Intermediate ESL, or Advanced ESL
Class placement will be determined by an entry exam, the SLEP (Secondary
Level English Proficiency). All three classes aim to increase English
language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Students in ESL will work on social skills and building connections
among themselves and the entire student body. Class sizes are kept
between 2 and 6 students to ensure individualized attention.
Students taking the TOEFL Preparation class will focus on grammar, analysis, vocabulary, and reading in preparation for their exam.
Composition
Students will improve their writing skills by studying sentence structure,
vocabulary, and grammar. Thinking critically and writing well-structured
essays, such as those for college applications, will be the main goal.
American Society and Culture
This cross-disciplinary course allows students to explore the American culture by studying history, sociology, literature, music, and art. The objective of the class is to help students gain an appreciation of the American culture, reduce culture shock, and provide an historical overview of the country's cultural development.
American History
This course will provide an overview of United States history from the American Revolution to the present. Students will learn to identify and analyze major events and people from each of the significant eras in U.S. history. Additional emphasis is placed on the acquisition of English skills, interpretive social studies skills, note taking and research.
Personalized Learning Lab
This course provides students with one-on-one tutorial help in subjects offered outside of the ESL program as well as research, note taking, and test taking skills. Students who require more time and assistance in translation can have their exams given to them in the lab.
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
"In language, clarity is everything."- Confucius
French 1A
This course covers the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing the French language, as well as aspects of French culture. Students will learn vocabulary about familiar subjects: family members, clothing, food, home, school and pastimes. By the end of the year, students should be able to have simple conversations in the present tense.
French 2A
Prerequisite: French 1A with a C average. This course continues and
expands the skill development begun in French 1A. Class time will
be spent working on conversational skills. Students will write several
compositions and read small samples of French writing. More complex
grammar and vocabulary will be introduced. Students will learn to
speak and write in the past as well as the present tense.
French 3A
Prerequisite: French 2A with a C average. This course continues the
skill development begun in French 1 and 2. Students will have short
reading assignments and will learn more complex grammar. The class
will be conducted in French at least 50% of the time. This course
will prepare students for entry into an intermediate college level
course.
Spanish 1A
This course covers the four basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing the Spanish language, as well as aspects of Spanish culture. Students will learn vocabulary about familiar subjects: family members, clothing, food, home, school and pastimes. By the end of the year, students should be able to have simple conversations in the present tense.
Spanish 2A
Prerequisite: Spanish 1A with a C average.
This course continues and expands the skill development begun in Spanish 1. Class time will be spent working on conversational skills. Students will write several compositions and read small samples of Spanish writing. Students will learn to speak and write in the past as well as the present tense.
Spanish 3A
Prerequisite: Spanish 2A with a C average. This course continues the
skill development begun in Spanish 1 and 2. Short readings will be
included and more complex grammar will be introduced. The class will
be conducted in Spanish at least 50% of the time. This course will
prepare students for entry into an intermediate college level course.
HEALTH
"Wisdom is to the soul what health is to the body."-La Rochefoucauld
Health
Health education teaches the student how to make good choices for
both their body and mind. Covered in this class are growth and development,
nutrition, safety, accident prevention and mental health. Health matters
that affect the community will also be discussed such as family life,
sex education, substance abuse, consumer health and the environment.
Because of the life-threatening nature of Acquired Immune Deficiency
Syndrome (HIV), a new educational prevention program will be included
in the comprehensive health education program.
MATHEMATICS
"The true spirit of delight . . . is to be found in mathematics as surely as poetry."- Bertrand Russell
Algebra 1
This course presents the basic structure of Algebra. Students will learn to solve equations, word problems, graph in coordinate planes, factor, and use algebraic fractions.
Honors Algebra 1
This is a rigorous, fast-paced course that presents the concepts, theory, and usefulness of algebra in solving problems. The basic rules and tools of algebra are covered, as well as more complex applications and mathematical functions. Topics such as probability, statistics, and elementary trigonometry are introduced and integrated into the course. Graphing calculators are used to analyze the behavior of algebraic functions.
Algebra 2
This course teaches the use of deductive reasoning through various word problem sets. Various algebra concepts are studied, including linear equations and inequalities, absolute values, factoring, and multiple roots, fractional exponents, quadratic equations, complex numbers, analytic geometry, function notation, and conic sections. This course also offers an introduction to trigonometric functions, graphs, and identities.
Honors Algebra 2
This course is more rigorous and faster paced than Algebra 2 and has more in-depth coverage of algebraic functions, including linear, quadratic, polynomial, and rational functions. Transcendental functions (exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric) are introduced. Probability and statistics are addressed, and sequences and series are introduced. This course, along with geometry, provides the foundation for studies in more advanced math courses. Graphing calculators are used extensively.
Advanced Math
This course is a continuation of Algebra 2. The course will cover the following topics:
polynomials and polynomial function, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational functions, periodic functions, trigonometry, quadratic relations, conic sections, probability and statistics, sequences and series.
Geometry
This course deals with several forms of geometry. The major emphasis of the first semester is on triangles. The second semester then branches into parallelograms, trapezoids, regular polygons, circles, trigonometry, similar relationships, coordinate geometry, and solid geometry. Students will use a protractor, compass, and scientific calculator to solve problems.
Precalculus
All aspects of calculus are introduced and algebra reviewed. Major effort is spent on studying functions and their behavior. Statistics and probability are interwoven throughout the course. A key element is learning to use graphing calculators to visualize functions, transform functions, solve graphing and optimization problems, and do statistical analysis. Real-world applications of mathematical skills are covered.
AP Calculus AB
Prerequisite: Pre-calculus, 80 average or better.
This course involves a synthesis of all previous math background to form a basis for a more powerful tool in calculus. The course covers limits, continuity, differentiation, and integration, with a focus on real-world problem solving. A key element to the curriculum is the integration of graphing calculators to visualize functions, transformations, rates of change (differentiation) and areas (integration). Depending on student interest and how much of the calculus curriculum is addressed during the pre-calculus course this may be an AP Calculus BC course, which covers additional topics of advanced integration, series approximations, conics, the calculus of parametric, polar and vector functions. In either case, whether an AB or BC course, students are expected to take the Advanced Placement test in May. Students must provide a TI-83 (or equivalent) graphing calculator. Students learn how to use and program their calculators as part of the curriculum.
Applied Mathematics 1, 2, and 3
Applied Mathematics teaches algebra and geometry concepts as they
would be used in work settings. Students work in cooperative teams
on practical and relevant real-life mathematical problems. Applied
mathematics is a competency-based curriculum that emphasizes hands-on
problem solving and decision-making for all learning styles.
Bridges Math I and II
BRIDGES to Algebra and Geometry
BRIDGES prepares students for Applied Math I by teaching mathematics in context while concentrating on basic concepts essential for progress in applied mathematics. Learning experiences are designed to help students understand and perform mathematical functions.
MUSIC
"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without."- Confucius
Band
Students will rehearse and perform a wide variety of music, as well as practice individual instruments in small-group lessons. Students will learn the historical background as well as the musical theory behind each piece performed.
Concert Chorus
Students will rehearse and perform a wide variety of choral works, as well as develop the basic skills of singing. Each student will develop their individual voice as well as work on harmony, balance and vocal blend of the group. Part-singing and choreography will also be presented in this course.
Select Chorus
Students will rehearse and perform a wide variety of choral works,
as well as develop the skills of singing. Students will develop their
individual voices as well as work on harmony, balance and vocal blend
of the group. Part-singing and choreography will also be presented
in this course. Along with other shows, Select Chorus performs at
baccalaureate and graduation.
Music Theory
Music Theory is for the student who would like to learn more about music without having to perform. Basic music theory and composition will be covered as well as the development of individual musical skills through lessons on an instrument of the student's choice. Students will learn to compose their own music and perform that music on an instrument of their choice.
Music History
Music History provides an overview of modern history from a musician's
perspective. Classical music from the Middle Ages to the Romantic
Period will be covered in the first semester, and 20th century classical
and pop styles will be the focus of the second semester.
Learn to Play Guitar
This course teaches the basics of guitar playing. Students will learn basic chords and strumming patterns as well as how to read music. Traditional folk tunes, blues progressions, and other styles will be covered.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
"Sports at their heart are a tribute to beauty, wisdom and grace."-Michael Novak
Physical Education 1
Students learn team sports like basketball, volleyball, baseball,
softball and soccer. Individual sports like hiking, aerobics and weightlifting
will also be taught to create a lifelong basis for health and wellness.
Physical Education 2
The second course in physical education will involve a wider selection of both team and individual sports. Students will learn the rules and strategies of each game more thoroughly, as well as enjoy lots of physical activity.
Lifetime Sports
Lifetime sports is a co-ed physical activity/leisure class to introduce
students to a variety of games, sports, and outdoor pursuits that
they can enjoy throughout their lives. Students will enjoy many activities
including tennis, Frisbee, archery and hiking. Students will also
be taught to use exercise machines and light weight training for health.
The emphasis in this class is on both fitness and fun.
SCIENCE
"Wisdom begins in wonder."-Socrates
Earth Science A
Students work in small groups solving real world problems with basic physics concepts, such as Newton's Laws of motion, momentum, electricity, energy, and probability. Selected earth science topics involving weather, geology, and astronomy are also presented.
Earth Science B
This course is an overview of the universe, the solar system, and our planet, Earth. Students will study topics including geology, meteorology, oceanography and astronomy. Topics in biology, chemistry and physics will be introduced as they relate to earth science. Students should be prepared to use general math concepts and unit conversions in their labs and projects.
Physical Science
Students will examine scientific concepts and theories in the fields of chemistry, physics and earth science. Students will do laboratory investigations where they will solve problems, interpret data in the form of charts, tables, graphs, and diagrams, as well as draw conclusions about scientific principles. Methods in problem solving will involve using some math and algebra skills, graphing techniques, models, and reasoning. The use of the scientific method of solving problems will be the basis of all laboratory investigations. This course is designed for the student who plans to attend college or technical school.
Biology A - Lab Course
This course involves the study of life from a molecular and evolutionary point of view.
Students will learn from lectures, their own scientific reasoning and investigation in lab experiments. Some of the topics covered will include cell ecology, energy cycles, genetics, anatomy, physiology, and classification.
General Biology B
General Biology involves a blend of textbook biology with educational hands-on work. Leaf collections, a microscope lab, field trips, and tree planting are included.
Chemistry A-Lab Course
Chemistry is the study of matter: its composition, properties, and interaction with energy. This class will cover atomic structure, chemical reactions, bonding theory, quantum theory, the periodic table, acid-base theories, and others. Problem solving and real life applications are emphasized.
Physics
This course studies the forces of motion, energy and work, and their
interaction with matter in nature. The changes in matter caused by
pressure, temperature, and volume are studied, as well as the subjects
of thermodynamics, optics, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics.
Students will solve problems in labs and in individual and group projects.
Projects include building a "roller coaster" ride and egg art racer,
as well as a project of the student's choosing in the second semester.
Advanced Placement Biology
A. P. Biology gives students a chance to earn college credit through the successful completion of this class and the final exam. The recommended topics of biochemistry, cells, heredity, evolution, organism and population biology are covered. The student should be familiar with lab work and can expect to do spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, as well as advanced microscopy. Field trips are planned to enhance learning. This is a demanding course requiring much independent work outside of class.
Environmental Science
This course is an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the natural world and how it is used. Students will study ecology, forestry, marine ecosystems, agriculture/aquaculture, wildlife management, land use and natural resources. The political, economic and social values that impact environmental policies will also be examined.
SOCIAL STUDIES
"History does not repeat itself except in the minds of those who do not know history."-Kahlil Gibran
World History and Geography A/B
This is a yearlong survey course, which covers the major eras and great civilizations of ancient and modern history. The course centers on the important events and themes of world history. Geography is incorporated into this course in order that students may learn the significant role the physical world plays in history, particularly on the world's cultures.
Civics
This is a semester course in which students study the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship, and the purpose, history, and function of government.
Economics
The course is a multimedia economics program. It combines video, print, and computer software to explore five economic activities: producing, exchanging, consuming, saving and investing. Students will learn the causes and consequences of economic events and the effect they have on the work place and public policy. Students will study real-life economic problems and learn about the economic interrelationships of individuals, families, companies and governments.
Psychology A
Psychology is a challenging college-level course. During this yearlong study, pupils will cover many areas of this field, including the history of psychology, the experimental method, human development, the mind-body connection, and the theories of major psychologists.
United States History A and B
This course is a study of American history from the American Revolution to the Vietnam War, with an emphasis on events in the twentieth century. Students learn to identify and analyze major events and people from each of the significant eras in U.S. history. A strong emphasis is placed on cause and effect relationships and enduring themes in U.S. history. Students are required to evaluate primary sources and analyze historical documents. Students are encouraged to look at history through the eyes of many Americans, not simply the President, heroes, or military leaders.
Advanced Placement US History
The Advanced Placement U.S. History course provides students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with U.S. history from the age of exploration through to Vietnam. This is a very fast-paced course. Students must be prepared to read and write extensively, think critically, and spend hours each night working on this one subject. All students are required to take a National AP Examination in May. College credit may be obtained with an acceptable score.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot."
-Walter Bagehot
The Special Education Department develops programming on an individual
basis for each student based on individual needs and concerns. This
programming involves a combination of small group or individual instruction,
as well as support for classes in the general curriculum. The goal
is to instruct the student in all subjects covered in the general
curriculum with a focus on life skills. The individualized program
will tailor instruction to the student's individual learning strengths
and will adapt course material to best suit the student's learning
style. The following remedial subjects are offered:
Remedial English
Remedial Math
Remedial Science
Remedial Biology
Remedial U. S. History
Remedial Geography
Remedial Government
Remedial Health
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
"Progress comes from the intelligent use of experience."-Elbert Hubbard
Introduction to Woodworking
This is the first course in a series of technology education courses.
Students will develop basic skills in the use of hand tools, portable
power tools, and stationary woodworking power tools. Emphasis will
include the topics of basic safety, group work, and wood-related industries
Metals Technology
Students will develop an understanding of tools and machines used in the metal working industries by designing and making useful projects in welding. Emphasis will be placed on topics of safety, cooperative work, and the related metal working industries
Technical Drawing
This course is designed to allow students to become familiar with
traditional and computer-aided drawing. Emphasis will be on an introduction
to three dimensional projections and solids modeling. Students will
learn to use basic drawing tools and basic types of Computer Aided
Design (CAD) commands. They will produce board drawings and work in
pairs to complete the same drawings in CAD. Using 3D software they
will produce construction drawings for a wood framed cottage.
Theater Set Design and Construction
This course is designed to introduce motivated students to the various technical activities that surround the production of a theatrical play. These activities include such things as set and prop design, construction and painting.
Carpentry and Light Construction
This course introduces basic residential carpentry skills. Emphasis
will be on safety and the proper use of carpentry tools, machinery
and equipment. Students will learn to read plans, use measuring devices,
and select the appropriate materials. The methods used in residential
carpentry will be studied as well. Students will draw plans and team-build
a small utility building.
Remodeling Seminar
Students will work with the instructor to brainstorm solutions to common design and construction problems presented by the school building's infrastructure.
VOCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Jobs for Maine's Graduates
"To find out what one is fitted to do, and to secure an opportunity
to do it, is the key to happiness."
-John Dewey
The Jobs for Maine's Graduates Program (JMG) meets all criteria of the Learning Results Career Preparation. Washington Academy seeks to identify and encourage the most successful approaches in career preparation among all our students, and select students who can most benefit from JMG. Through community service projects, fund-raisers, field trips, and leadership conferences, students will develop employability skills, personal development skills and leadership skills. Students will explore their social and civic responsibilities. Activities like listening to guest speakers and job shadowing will help the students focus on their future aspirations. The Jobs for Maine's Graduates Program of Washington Academy commits to helping students to their career goals and provide a year of follow-up after graduation to assure student success.
JMG Opportunity Awareness Program
The Opportunity Awareness Program (OAP) offers the student a chance to better him/herself academically, socially, and personally. The goal of the OAP is to have all students pass their core curriculum, and we work with the student and their teachers to keep the student's work current and testing more successful. The OAP students are also involved with community service projects, fund-raisers, social events, career development, and leadership development. Only students who are willing to take part in these areas will be selected to participate in the Opportunity Awareness Program.
JMG School-to-Work
Our School-to-Work Program (STW) assists seniors with the preparation
for graduation and their future career or post-secondary education
choice. Through job shadowing, internships, work-studies, in-class
discussions and activities, students will prepare for successful careers
in their chosen fields. Students will learn how to write powerful
resumes and cover letters to help them get the jobs they want. Students
will be involved in community service and fund-raiser projects, giving
them the opportunity to meet and be seen by local business people.
After graduation the JMG specialist/teacher will follow up on the
JMG students for 12 months, making sure the students continue to succeed.
Career Cooking
This program teaches students to work in the Washington Academy kitchen. These students will learn the basics of food preparation, nutrition, and meal planning. They will be under the supervision of the head cook.
Facilities Management
This program is designed for students to work with the Washington
Academy maintenance staff. These students will learn the basics of
keeping a large facility clean and in excellent running condition.
They will work under the supervision of the head custodian.
Law Enforcement-Narraguagus (See Guidance for information) Building Trades Î Machias (see Guidance for information) Culinary Arts Î Machias (see Guidance for information)
MARINE VOCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY
"Every man, deep down, is a fisherman."-Stephen Leacock
Marine Technology 1
Students will participate in structured units of aqua-culture, boat building, design, repair and restoration, composite construction, computer aided design and drawing (CADD), computerized numerical cutting (CNC), marlinespike seamanship, nautical terminology, networking skills, small boat handling, trade events, WEB research, and water and workshop safety.
Marine Technology 2
Students will participate in individualized advanced units of aqua-culture, boat building, design, repair, and restoration, CADD and CNC, chart work, cold water survival, composites, desktop publishing, navigation, nautical legal requirements and regulations, occupational alternatives, piloting, seamanship and powerboat handling, trade events, vessel ownership, and Internet research. Students will have the option to build and own a new boat of their choice from our broad selection of paddle, row, sail, and powerboats for the cost of materials.
MAINE CAREER ADVANTAGE
"By the means of work, one exceeds one's capacities."
-Jules Renard
Maine Career Advantage is a statewide educational option, sponsored by the Maine Technical College System, designed to integrate school and work experience and provide students access to higher education. Maine Career Advantage provides 16-19 year olds with internships in 22 career fields.
Career Internships
Students apply for the career internship during their junior or senior
year. They work 40 hours per week during the summer and 20 hours per
week during the school year. While at the work site they gain skills
and experience in their chosen career field and are in an excellent
position to complete an associate's or bachelor's degree program or
directly enter their career field.
Two-year Career Internships
These internships offer 18 credits without tuition at a technical college, 15 college credits earned for the internship (if enrolled in the Workplace Technology Program), high school credit, a stipend of over $6,000 per year, vacation, sick time, holidays, and a certificate of skills mastery.
One-year Internships
These internships offer a $500 scholarship to one of Maine's public colleges, high school credit, a stipend of $6,000 excused leave (vacation), sick time, holidays, and a certificate of completion.
Semester Internships
A semester internship takes place during the school year. The student receives 8-12 weeks of paid training and works 10-15 hours per week. These internships provide valuable job skills and career exploration opportunities at local businesses, a stipend of $6.00 per hour, and a certificate of participation.
Summer Internships
A summer internship takes place during the summer. The student receives 8-10 weeks of paid training and works 24-40 hours per week. These internships provide valuable job skills and career exploration opportunities at local businesses, a stipend of $6.00 per hour, and a certificate of participation.
UMM COLLEGE ASPIRATIONS PROGRAM
"I am still learning."
- Michelangelo
The UMM (University of Maine at Machias) College Aspirations Program is for Washington Academy juniors and seniors who have demonstrated the potential to be successful in college-level courses and have been recommended by the Guidance Counselor and Headmaster. Students will be eligible to take two courses or six credit hours per semester at the University of Maine at Machias, with all tuition costs being waived, with the exception of some course fees. For a listing of course offerings, see www.umm.maine.edu.
