The High Road Upper School of Prince George’s County conveniently located at 12050 Baltimore Avenue has served the instructional and behavioral needs of at-risk students in Prince Georges County since 2001.   With over 20 years of company experience, we’re distinctly prepared to best meet the individualized educational needs of our school population.  Serving as a vendor for our local public schools, our efforts are concentrated on guiding students through personalized academic, behavioral, and transitional goals to ensure their continued development and growth.

Because we specialize in high-school aged at-risk students (in both a graded and a non-graded program), we place a great emphasis on our comprehensive Life Skills Program, which combines traditional class work, hands‐on tutorials, one‐on‐one instructional sessions, and on‐ and off‐site activities to equip young adults with the skills and know‐how they’ll need to function properly and productively in society following graduation. This program is comprised of five components — (1) Academic Curriculum; (2) Vocational Training; (3) Behavioral & Social Skills; (4) Community Immersion; and (5) Independent Living Instruction — and since its inception in 2005, we’re proud to say that the program has graduated 100% of its seniors.

In a continuing effort to further assist our at-risk population in meeting their districts graduation requirements, the High Road Upper School is pleased to announce our new Credit Recovery Program.  This initiative will provide students (between the ages of 18-21) the chance to recover credits lost over the period of their high school career.  Keith White, Senior Director, recently announced the development of this program in an effort to provide additional opportunities for an increased number of at-risk students to earn their high school diploma.  
With a dedicated staff of teachers, counselors & job coaches utilizing small class sizes, supplementary support services, and individualized approach to education — we’re able to lead our students toward success in all facets of their lives: in the classroom, at home, and in the community.

International Day 2012

March 22
12pm- 2pm

It is with great pleasure that we invite you to take a tour of the world with High Road Upper School of PG County on March 22, 2012.  Please join our students as they share what they have learned about the various cultures, currency, fashion and governments of the world.  Our students are working diligently on their projects, and your tour guides are awaiting your arrival!

Please RSVP to your student's teacher or any Administrator!

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Mark Your Calendars

April 26, 2012 - 7th Annual Fine Arts Festival
May 10, 2012 - Regional Career Fair
May 18, 2012 - Junior/Senior Prom
June 11, 2012 - Graduation

Say Cheese 

February 1, 2012

Picture day is coming for students.  Please click link below for additional details.

Picture Day

The Beltsville News April 2012

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Writing Contest

Students at High Road School were invited to participate in a school wide writing contest focusing on goals, dreams, and making a positive difference in the world. Students were competing for a page in the 2011-2012 yearbook on which their poem, or essay would be featured. Several of the submissions are featured below. Stay tuned for news about the winner!

Making the World a Better Place

I can make a difference in the world by making it a better place. I can make it a better place by spreading love, keeping the environment clean, and staying away from trouble. I can spread love by helping others in my family by doing things around the house such as shores or by helping to raise my niece. I can keep the environment clean by picking up trash and recycling bottles, plastic, glass, and paper. Finally, I’m going to make the world a better place by staying away from trouble. I’ll do this by choosing the right friends and staying away from negative people. There is no doubt in my mind that I will make a difference in this world.

By Anneika S.

I Can Make A Difference in the World

I can make a difference in this world
There future needs a strong black girl
I’m strong and proud, I live out loud

I have the smarts to be the president
Of this town!
I can make a difference in this world
I’m intelligent enough to change this world
Brilliant and free, I’m Anttaneka, that’s me!

By Anttaneka S.

The Future Is…

The future is full of hopes and dreams
And many goals to achieve
But first you must have strength and courage
And most important
You have to BELIEVE

I BELIEVE that my future
Is as bright as the morning STAR
My future is to be a pediatrician
And have a shiny car
You can respect your future
By making a good choice to do well in school
And staying away from trouble and fools

By India B.

The Importance of Goals and Dreams

It is important to have goals and dreams because you need to have a plan for your life. My goal when I get out of High School is to go to college and be the best that I can be. I plan on not letting anything stop me from going to college. Another goals that I have is to own a car and my own place. Also, I will have a good paying job as a journalist. Finally, my dream is to live successfully with my family.

By Jaquan S.

Believe in Yourself
I believe in myself
That I can make it in life
Life is like a garden of roses
That grows and flows
Through the sunlight and the breeze
During these times I feel bold and happy
But when these black clouds come over me
I just shut down
And begin hiding like a moon
Behind a dark sky

But then
My sadness goes away like a stormy day
And a bright rainbow comes over me
This shows me that life is not over
I can make it through anything
And achieve anything
That I put my mind to

…And so can you!

Shyanne B.

A year of success can always be the best
No matter what you have support through your ups and downs
2011 was a good year but 2012 is going to be something fantastic
It’s always a good year when you have graduates in the year 2012
If you just come to school and do your work
It’s never a problem if you are struggling in a subject
My best year is 2012 because I am a graduate in June
2012 was a little challenge but in 2012 it’s the best time of the year
Shout out to my homeroom teachers for helping me through tough times and the times I felt like giving up.

By Charmaine J.

I Believe In

I believe in you
You believe in me
I believe in the world
Today is our American Anniversary
I believe in dreams
Dreams may come true
I believe in making it
So how ‘bout you?
I believe in singing out loud,
I believe in singing in the shower.
I believe in graduating soon,
I believe in becoming an actor very soon.
I believe in a special world for you and me,
I believe in love that one cannot see.
And most of all I just believe in…

By Michael A.

The future is bright…

The future is bright because I see myself in the nest 2-3 years at Morgan University living on campus as a sorority sister, stepping on grounds of my future college. I have confidence in myself that the future is bright for me. I really like the fact that I have confidence and ability. I am completely satisfied that I have the capacity to face the adversity of college life.

By Alexis A.

SUCCESS

Success means I will have a good successful day…
By earning points
By listening to all staff
By not mocking others
By getting to higher levels
By earning points
By having a safe, good ride on the bus
I wish you all a safe, successful school year

By Paula L.

Spelling Bee

High Road students participated in the 1st ever HRUS Spelling Bee, as part of the “I Caught You Reading” initiative that began this school year. Preliminary spelling competitions were held within each homeroom class earlier this month. The winners of these competitions competed in a school wide Spelling Bee on March 29th. The spelling bee ultimately consisted of 7 contestants, and students were given a large word bank of vocabulary words to use for studying prior to the competition. The spelling bee was the brainchild of teaching staff, Mr. Sean Hicks who stated, “The spelling bee went very well for the first one. We will make it an annual tradition, and hopefully even turn it into a regional competition.” Colleagues Ms. Alexis Adamczyk and Ms. Aliciamarie Johnson joined Mr. Hicks in organizing the event. The spelling bee champion was Simyia K. from Ms. Davis’ homeroom class. 2nd runner up was Darrell B. from Mrs. Corley’s homeroom, followed by 3rd place runner up Eddy Z. of Ms. Bryant’s class.

High Road Reads

HRUS is gearing up for an exciting month, as “High Road Reads” continues. March is going to be a month full of exciting events and activities geared towards reading. The staff committee has grown now to 8 enthusiastic members, including Ms. Johnson, Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Owens, Ms. Alexis, Ms. Amy, Ms. Bryant, Mr. Stewart, and Mr. Hicks. The month of March will be dedicated in reading both to nurture an interest in reading, and also to celebrate the Birthday of the late Dr. Seuss, which falls on March 2nd. Students and staff have been busy decorating the halls, and bulletin boards with reading themed décor. Activities will include an weekly book clubs during Tuesdays, as well as drawings for prizes, and “Stop, Drop, and Read” each week where students and staff alike will stop what they are doing and take a time-out for reading! Special events will also include the 3rd annual book fair, with a special guest speaker, which will be held on March 29th from 12:30-2 as well as the 1st High Road Spelling Bee, which will take place on March 28th! Committee leader, Ms. Johnson shared, “[March] is going to be an exciting month of reading events that will hopefully motivate and inspire students to read!”

1st Annual High Road Bowl (Jessup Soccerdome Jessup, MD)

New Hope Academy vs. High Road Upper School (Beltsville, MD)

On Wednesday, January 25th the Maryland Northern and Southern Regions came together for the first annual High Road Bowl at the Jessup Soccerdome.  The game was played indoors, on artificial turf, with the best of both regions coming together for a showdown a few days before the Super Bowl was played in Indianapolis.  Both teams were heavily represented with “Blue” level athletes displaying their dedication to the sport and the behavioral modification system.  Head Coach Lyles, of High Road Upper School, (Beltsville) and Coach Wallace of New Hope Academy (Baltimore) truly exemplified the sportsmanship and work ethic needed to motivate both teams to arrive at this championship level.  Both coaches agreed that mutual respect for each other’s talents was achieved, as well as the new friendships and bonds.

As for the game itself, The Pride controlled the game early, as their highly efficient offense thrived.  Vaughn, team captain, controlled the offense from the quarterback position and led the Pride team down the field on the three opening drives, including a 100 yard kick-off return reminiscent of Desean Jackson.  Vaughn, an exceptional athlete with cat-like quickness made some amazing cuts and dazzled with his arm throughout the day.  His Michael Vick-like maneuvers in the open field impressed viewers throughout the day.  He was helped largely in part by, Swain, his main wide receiver, who caught two touchdowns along with Eades, a talented running back that chipped in with two rushing touchdowns. Bell, also, had a great game at the tight end slot for the Pride making several impressive catches that college scouts would have drooled over.  At the half, New Hope led 30-24.

However, playing forty-five minute halves can allow huge momentum swings and lead changes and High Road Upper School took full advantage.  Coach Lyles and Clark both stated that the defensive side of the ball was their main focus in the second half and it was evident with four interceptions and five turnovers on downs.  “It was really amazing to see the unity on defense after a tumultuous first half…” said Coach Lyles.  Roberts, Williams and Anderson had monumental interceptions that lead to scores with Williams having a 90 yarder returned for a touchdown midway through the second half.  Page played strong at the quarterback position finding Ramey who also had two rushing touchdowns and some very timely two point conversions.  Roberts stepped in at quarterback late and threw a 60 yard pass to Williams to seal the deal as even the staff at the Soccerdome stared in awe of the athletic ability on the field.  The final score ended up being 69-51 in favor of the Bulldogs after a 2 hour duel, but the game was much closer than that score would indicate.  Both teams left the field exhausted while exemplifying the High Road way with respectful handshakes, mutual respect, and an innate desire to compete again.

Staff Highlight

February 2012

Shemika Owens

The High Road Upper School of Prince George’s County is pleased to recognize Ms. Shemika Owens for her exceptional hard work and service.  Mrs. Owens, was selected by her peers for her outstanding work throughout the school.

Mrs. Owens has been with the High Road Upper School since 2005. Throughout her years as our Administrative Assistant, she has proven to be a great resource for the students.  She has clearly been a reliable, hard-working and dedicated staff member. Mrs. Owens is instrumental in school-wide events such as International Day and Prom When asked about Mrs. Owens, her fellow colleagues shared the following:

•    Enjoys helping others
•    Extremely Reliable and always ready to assist whenever needed
•    Always has a smile on her face
•    Extremely Creative
•    Takes initiative
•    Contributes as a team player
•    Provides great insight and advice
•    Very organized
•    Great Sense Humor
•    The perfect fit for our school

It is easy to see why this recognition is well deserved by Mrs. Owens.  We thank her for her hard work and continued commitment to making the High Road Upper School of Prince George’s County the best it can be.

Student of the Month

January 2012

Rodney, a 10th grader, has been at High Road since 8/2010. He has been recognized as January’s student of the month. Rodney has shown an increased effort to complete class work, as well as homework. His grades have improved significantly from last year. Rodney has been an avid participant in this year’s “I Caught You Reading” initiative, and frequently gets “caught” with a book. Rodney is invested in the level system, and enjoys the rewards of playing sports and working with transition. This is probably why he has been a consistent green level student! He is a positive participant in therapeutic sessions, and generally has a pleasant and positive demeanor. Rodney has shard that he wants to focus on graduating so that he can have a good future. He has been making decision himself to be successful in school, and is recognizing the benefits of positive behavior. Stated social worker, Tiffany Wright, “Rodney has made so much progress this school year. His team is very proud of the efforts he has made to work up to his full potential.

Most Improved Student

January 2012

Raysheona, in her first year at High Road, was named Most Improved Student by staff in the month of January. Raysheona enjoys reading chapter books, learning to tell time, and is thoroughly enjoying learning about the origins of the United States Government! She has been able to recognize her strengths, which include an increased use of coping skills to manage negative emotions. Raysehona has become a more effective communicator, and is becoming more adept at using her words to tell others about needs and concerns. Raysheona has increased her ability to utilize coping skills, including taking self-timeouts, therapeutic walks, and writing request forms. She has developed insight into problematic behaviors, which has enabled her to reflect on past situations and the negative consequences. Raysheona has shown significant strides in her ability to identify her emotions, and explore positive ways to cope effectively with issues related to home and school.

RJ's Cafe and High Road Upper School Begin Partnership

Please click here for more information

Classic Art in the Making

High Road Bulldogs are busily preparing for the upcoming Fine Arts Festival! The Festival will be held on April 26, 2012. Projects are being led by staff Mrs. Sarah Corley, Ms. Telia Jones, Ms. Kristin Collier, Alexis Adamczyk, and Katheryn Oved, among others. Projects will reflect a variety of talents. Students have most recently been preparing a series of paper-mache Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Pluto. Ms. Jones, who inspired the Disney theme, stated, “I am so amped up because the kids are so excited! They all want to help out and participate.” Stay tuned for more information, and pictures!

High Road Bowl 2012

Wednesday, February 1
Jessup Soccerdome (Indoors)

Like the NFL, the High Road Flag Football Season is heading towards its Championship. 3 teams, 1 day 1 championship.

New Hope Academy (Baltimore)
High Road Academy (Lanham)
High Road Upper School (Beltsville)

Most Improved Student

December 2011

Keon, an 11th grader who has attended High Road for 1 year, was recognized as December’s Most Improved Student. He achieved this by demonstrating the ability to stay on task and complete assignments. Keon has especially been making strides in his reading progress. He has been maintaining focus, and decreasing his distracting behavior. Keon has been utilizing coping skills, such as requesting walks, and taking self time-outs when he has a difficult time rather than shutting down, or eloping from school. Keon has been able to manage aggressive impulses and avoid peer negativity. He now asks for help when needed, and sets goals for himself to help ensure his progress. Keon has been developing his self-esteem, and is able to acknowledge his strengths and the areas in which he has shown improvement. Social worker, Ms. Alexis stated, “Keon has shown insight into past problematic behavior and has demonstrated growth in his ability to appropriately problem solver situations.”

Student of the Month

December 2011

Joshua, a senior, was named as December’s Student of the Month. Joshua was proud of this accomplishment, stating that he has “never gotten something like that”. Joshua was recognized for his consistently on task and respectful behavior. His positive attitude at school has increased tremendously, and he has been able to work positively within many facets of the school community. Joshua gets along well with peers, and is helpful to those around him. Joshua has recently risen to silver level. During this school year, Joshua has been on gold, and silver, but has never fallen below blue level. He is a wonderful role model to his fellow classmates.

Staff Highlights

Ms. Syreeda Ferguson

The High Road Upper School of Prince George’s County is pleased to recognize Ms. Syreeda Ferguson for her exceptional contributions.  Ms. Ferguson, was selected by her peers for her outstanding work with her students and throughout the school.

Ms. Ferguson has been with the High Road School since 2011. Throughout her tenure, as a our Job Coach, she has proven to be a great resource for the students.  She has clearly been a reliable, hard-working and dedicated staff member.  When asked about Ms. Ferguson, her fellow colleagues shared the following:

•    Enjoys helping others
•    Exhibits professionalism
•    Goes above and beyond to transport the kids to their Community Service trips
•    Takes initiative
•    Contributes as a team player
•    Helps take Transition Program to the next level
•    Develops an awesome rapport with student workers
•    Provides appropriate supervision school transition and outside workers
•    Has an infectious smile

It is easy to see why this recognition is well deserved by Ms. Ferguson.  We thank her for her hard work and continued commitment to making the High Road Upper School of Prince George’s County the best it can be.

Career Preparation

High Road transition staff, Mr. Mattison and Ms. Ferguson have been building some valuable connections within the community. They have arranged for students to be taken out to area restaurants, auto-mechanic shops, daycares, and even the local fire department! These trips are allowing students to have the valuable opportunity to become immersed in real life work experiences. This will help them get a taste for various careers and begin preparing to become part of the future work force!

Student of The Month - November

David was recognized as November’s Student of the Month. David is a 9th grader, and enrolled at High Road in August. He values school success, and earned honor roll during the 1st quarter. David works well independently. He has been working hard to socialize more with his peers. David is always polite and kind to others, and consistently avoids peers negativity. Social worker, Ms. Alexis stated, “David is consistent in staying on task and following staff directions and school rules. He has shown a positive adjustment to High Road this fall, and wants to be successful in school.”

Most Improved Student - November

Anton was recognized as November’s Most Improved Student. Anton, a 9th grader, has been with High Road for 1 year. He has improved in many areas including an overall increase in his motivation to do well in school. Anton has been on task the majority of the time, and has significantly increased his work effort. Consequentially his grades have also improved. Anton has been motivated by the positive feedback he has been receiving from others. He has become a leader, helping others, and improving positive communication with staff and peers. Anton has been able to decrease instances of aggression and inappropriate interactions. Social worker, Ms. Alexis stated, “Anton has shown significant growth behaviorally and academically. He has demonstrated focus and a hard work ethic in the classroom. He wants to do well and is proud of himself when he does.”

Are You Ready for Some FOOTBALL?

The Beltsville Bulldogs are getting ready for their 2011 football season.  Practices are underway as the start of the season nears.  Stay tuned for Bulldog Updates throughout the season.

Reading Incentive Program

The staff at High Road Upper School has created a new program designed to spark student interest in books and literature. The program, kicked off on August 30, 2011, is a Reading Incentive Program (RIP).It has been designed, and spearheaded by teachers Ivan Johnson, and Aliciamarie Johnson. They are joined by social worker Amy Layman, and teaching staff Darren Stewart and Maleeca Bryant.

The program will use a combination of individual and group activities. Students will be rewarded with a lottery ticket each time an observer “catches” them engaged in reading a book. Monthly drawings of these tickets will be held dispensing awards such as gift cards, movie passes, homework passes, etc.

Additionally classes will compete in quarterly reading projects, as well as participate in Reading Week, taking place during the month of March. Other events will include “Stop, Drop, and Read” which is a spontaneous 10 minute reading activity, a pep rally, a book club meeting, a “Battle of the Books” event, and the annual High Road Upper School Book Fair. Ms. Johnson states, “we hope to ignite the desire to read in each of our students so that their lives can be enriched academically, socially, and professionally.”

So, GET READING!

A Partnership with the Community

Connection to the local community has long been a value of the High Road Schools.  For many years, our schools have worked together with local organization in a variety ways.  The High Road Upper School has both continued and formalized this tradition. 
Since 2010, the High Road Upper School has been a participant in the Greater Beltsville Business Association (www.beltsvillebusiness.com).  Keith White, Director and Kevin Mattison, Transition Director began attending since he very beginning at the suggestion of State Senator, James Rosapepe.  Since that time, Mr. White was selected to be on the Board of Directors as Secretary.
Participation in the Greater Beltsville Business Association (GBBA) has been pivotal in developing a closer relationship with the local community than ever before.  Our school has established several business partnerships with GBBA members.  These partnerships provide various career building opportunities for our students.
As a result of the involvement and leadership of Mr. White, our school has become widely known as an integral member of the Greater Beltsville Area.  Our school has been routinely asked to participate in neighborhood events such as Beltsville Day and National Night Out (August 2, 2011).  Recently, Mr. White reflected on the impact membership in the GBBA has had on the school, “Our school’s involvement in the GBBA has opened up many new doors for our students.  Each month, we continue to add new business partnerships.”  We look forward to another exciting year with the High Road Upper School and GBBA working together.

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High Road Upper School Supplies Special Needs Students Individualized Job Training

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New Job Opportunities

The High Road Upper School has a longstanding commitment to providing career development opportunities for our students.  Accordingly, the Transition Program at our school is designed to work with students to develop career goals, resume writing, interviewing skills & specific job skills.

As part of our program students are presented with various job opportunities inside and outside our school to serve as work experience leading to post-high school employment.  Mr. Kevin Mattision has been in constant contact with many businesses in the area.  As a result to the perseverance and hard work of Mr. Mattison, we are proud to announce partnerships with the following local businesses:

Laurel Auto Body
Moringside House of Laurel
Pepsi Bottling
Benke's Nursery
Shoppers
PG Community Federal Credit Union
Erickson Retirement Community
Pet Smart
Maryland National Capitol Parks

For additional information about job opportunities at these organization, please contact Kevin Mattison, Transition Coordinator (301) 210-4860 or e-mail at kmattision@highroadschool.com

Tip Off Is Coming

The 2012 High Road Basketball Season is getting set to tip off.  Check back for additional details and game results throughout the season.

Mark Your Calendars

April 26, 2012 - 7th Annual Fine Arts Festival
May 10, 2012 - Regional Career Fair
May 18, 2012 - Junior/Senior Prom
June 11, 2012 - Graduation

2011 Michael Cardin Scholarship Winners

Five Students of High Road Schools earn Scholarships
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The Michael Cardin Scholarship Fund was established in honor of Michael Cardin in memory of his extraordinary volunteerism and his support in the service of children with special needs.  The purpose of this fund is to provide financial assistance to students in non-public schools throughout the state of Maryland.

Each year, MANSEF (Maryland Association of Nonpublic Special Education Facilities) award deserving students attending non-public schools throughout the state of Maryland.  This year, 35 individuals were awarded scholarships by the Michael Cardin Scholarship Committee.  Four of those students attend High Road Schools within the Southern Maryland Region.  Our High Road School Student Winners along with the other scholarship recipients were honored at the MANSEF Annual Awards Luncheon on June 6, 2011 with Myrna Cardin and Nancy Grasmick, Maryland State Department of Education Superintendent, in attendance.

Douglas Argueta (High Road Academy – Lanham) received a scholarship for the C.A.S. Driving School.  As noted by his social worker, Ms. Jasmine McWain, “…he has proven to be a student that is focused and determined on succeeding…”  Learning how to drive will provide Douglas the independence to pursue his long-term career goals beyond high school.

Catheil Jackson (High Road Upper School – Beltsville) was awarded a scholarship to attend the Child Care Certification Training Class at Prince George’s Community College.  This 90 hour training course will allow Catheil to pursue employment in a Daycare Center.  As Catheil stated, “…my goal is to work with infants in daycare.  My plans are to stay focused and on the right track…to help them and teach them the important things in life.” 

Ashley Pannell (High Road School – Capitol Heights) is a graduate of the Class of 2010 who originally won the Michael Cardin Scholarship in 2010.  This year, she once again was awarded the scholarship to continue her college career at Washing Adventist University.  Along with attending classes, Ashley also works at her local CVS Pharmacy.  She also continues to stay in touch with the staff that helped her achieve her high school goals at the High Road School of Prince George’s County.

Aaron Robinson (High Road School – Capitol Heights) received a scholarship to attend Salisbury University to pursue a career in Nursing.  In his own words, “My goals are to help and be of service to the community…”  In her recommendation letter, Ms. Erica Robinson Newby, Social Worker shared that through his outstanding leadership and clear sense of purpose, Aaron has earned her “deepest respect”.

Dominic Wilson (High Road School – Capitol Heights) was awarded a scholarship to attend Prince George’s Community College to reach her childhood dreams of becoming a nurse.  Ms. Carmen McGinnis, Director, reflected on Dominic in her recommendation letter. Specifically, she stated, “She is very hard working and diligent about her academic studies.  As a result, Dominic has consistently earned honor roil since her 9th grade year”.
 
We are extremely proud of our winners and wish them the best of luck in the programs that they will be attending this summer and into the fall.