Eight new states have been chosen for participation in the State Scholars Initiative, a national business/education partnership effort designed to increase the number of students who take a rigorous curriculum in high school, the U.S. Education Department announced today.
"Rigorous academic coursework in high school is the critical foundation students need whether they plan to attend college or enter the workforce," said U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.
Under the State Scholars Initiative, each state will receive up to $300,000 during a two-year period to implement scholars programs in at least four school districts.
Local business-education partnerships will work with students in those districts, encouraging them to take a rigorous course of study, one that will give them a boost whether they go to college after they graduate or straight to work.
Two years of a language other than English.
Scholars programs use a high-impact strategy to motivate students to complete rigorous high school courses that prepare them for college and careers.
The program utilizes business people to make presentations to eighth-graders just before they select their high school courses.
Students may receive academic support, incentives and special recognition that help ensure their success, especially in the more difficult courses.
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