During the month of April, many students across the nation will be required to complete state mandated testing and/or College Board tests such as SAT/PSAT. For students in online schools, how can families best ensure that their students are prepared for these high-stakes tests? Keep up with grade level coursework State and national tests are aligned to state and national standards for grade level curriculum. This means that one of the best ways students can make sure they are prepared for these assessments is to be consistently working in their grade level curriculum. Online students do have the flexibility to work on their own schedule and focus on one or two classes at a time. However, the schedule they choose should include consistent work in core content areas like English and Math, especially as testing season approaches. Use practice resources Practice resources are readily available online. Students can see they types of questions they will encounter and can practice answering them. They can even take entire “practice tests”. While focusing all learning efforts on test preparation is not recommended, taking time to try out some practice questions will help students to be more at ease on the day of the test. Practicing in advance also gives them time to discuss with their teachers any questions they don’t understand, because once the actual test begins, they will be on their own. Prepare to use testing technology More and more standardized tests are moving online. Even SAT/PSAT has made the shift to a digital platform for the first time in 2024. Online students are already accustomed to using digital systems and platforms to complete daily assignments, so they should feel comfortable taking their high-stakes tests online as well. However, they may need to check to make sure their device is compatible with the test they will be taking. For instance, for SAT/PSAT, their school will install the testing app, and once it is installed, students can use the app to access practice resources as well.  It is a good idea to practice using the app, as well as any other digital resources that are allowed. For instance, will the student be using an embedded online calculator or a hand-held model?  If so, do they know how to use it to solve difficult math problems? If the student uses accommodations such as text-to-speech, are they going to be comfortable using their headset and the allowable technology on test day? Test preparation does not have to involve hours and hours spent with a tutor, drilling questions or being in a classroom where a teacher “teaches to the test”. It can reflect a more well-rounded approach in which students build confidence in their grade level course work, use practice resources to familiarize themselves with specific tests, and become comfortable with the technology they will be using on test day. This way, the test can truly be an accurate measure of how the student is learning and achieving their academic goals.

Home School or Online School?  What are the differences and how parents can make an informed choice between them. With all the options in education, parents might be confused about the differences between attending online school from home and “home schooling”. The main differences between online school and homeschooling are found in the responsibilities of the parent or guardian.  With online schooling, the school is responsible to the state for meeting mandated education requirements.  With homeschooling, it is the parent or guardian who answers to the state. Online school An online school is simply a school that is administered online. GlobalED Solutions (GES) provides online school. Students are afforded flexibility as to where and when they do their lessons, but they are surrounded by a professional support system. Parent responsibilities are to support and guide, but GES chooses the curriculum, designs lessons, proctors tests, and keeps records. Online school providers have already chosen the curriculum and contracted with certified teachers for every subject. GES has staff and programs for social and emotional support. For students who are eligible for advanced courses, concurrent college enrollment, or certificate programs, there are already experts on staff to support and guide students towards these opportunities. Home schooling Homeschooling places the responsibility on the parent or guardian. The parent is considered the teacher and is responsible to the state for meeting education requirements. Even if a family has purchased a curriculum that is provided online, the parent or guardian is in charge of designing lessons, keeping track of attendance, issuing a diploma, and maintaining records. The quality of the education provided by parents can vary greatly, depending on the background of the parent and the amount of time they have to devote to homeschooling. Homeschooling provides flexibility for the student, just as online school does, and it gives parents more control, but this comes with added responsibility. School is never “one size fits all” Each student is an individual and every family must make their own choice.  Options for education help everyone to improve. Students can have a bright future, whether they are enrolled in a traditional school setting, online education, or homeschooled, but not every student thrives in every environment. Parents need to be informed in order to make the right choice for their student.

GlobalED is helping our students to lead the way in the most exciting and growing career fields!  Our CTE (Career and Technical Education) Pathways allow our students to explore and begin working in careers such as IT (Information Technology), Culinary Arts and Hospitality, Early Childhood Education, Nursing, Entrepreneurship and Small Business! Starting as early as middle school, students can enter a pathway and travel as far as they want to go!  Below is an example of a student path: Middle School A middle school student who shows interest in babysitting can take Family and Consumer Science and also the Red Cross CPR and babysitting certification courses.  With these certificates, the student gains the credibility to begin working at something they enjoy! Early High School A student who wants to further explore this career field can take Child Development, where they learn more about caring for young children.  They can earn an Infant/Newborn Care Specialist Certificate and have even more job opportunities! Taking advantage of GlobalED’s concurrent enrollment program, the student may begin Early Childhood Education courses at their local community college.  In just one semester, the student can earn an entry-level certificate which gives them an advantage finding a job at a preschool or daycare center. Early High School A student may choose to continue at the college and stack up more certifications.  Next they may want to explore Entrepreneurship and Small Business, or learn more about specialities such as Childhood Nutrition or Social and Emotional Learning.  All of the certificates they have earned may prepare them to continue their education at a four-year institution or to open their own business.  The possibilities are endless! Our students are able to leave GlobalEd with much more than a high school diploma!

Michele Major Academic Coordinator Ignited by passion, we will be the worldwide leader of innovative, effective and efficient solutions to create a better world. Location Denver Phone Number 303-515-9903 Email michele.major@globaled.one CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT Background Background Background Before I began working in education, I was a professional ballet dancer, performing in ballets and musicals for 10 years. I went to three different high schools in three different states and moved out of my home to study at Ballet West Conservatory when I was 15. Eventually, I ended up at Southern Methodist University, where I earned a BFA in Fine Arts. I began working with students first as a dance teacher, eventually opening my own dance studio which I ran for 10 years until I moved with my family to Colorado. I have always been inspired by one of my favorite ballet mentors, who taught me to push myself and my students. I started working with GlobalEd Solutions in July of 2019. I love working here because I know that whatever I do, it is in support of the students and those who are helping our students to meet their potential. I don’t often get to meet our students in person, as I work mostly behind the scenes, but I love to hear their names called at graduation and I am always hoping the very best for each and every one of them! Inspiration Inspiration Inspiration I am inspired by potential. I see so much potential and possibility in young people and I want more than anything for them to grasp every opportunity and become their best selves. Favorite Holiday I love Easter because it is all about new beginnings. My Hobbies I love gardening, hiking, reading, and creating a joyful home for my two kids. Contact Us Today

Mathew Copley Student Support Coordinator (SSC) Ignited by passion, we will be the worldwide leader of innovative, effective and efficient solutions to create a better world. Location 1045 West 6th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 Phone Number 719-744-2900 Email mathew.copley@hopega.org CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT Background Background Background I was born and raised in Pueblo, CO. I graduated from East High School and attended CSU Pueblo. I began working with youth/students in 2013 at El Pueblo: The Boys & Girls Ranch, then District 60, then joined GlobalED Solutions where I continue. I work for GlobalED because I like to help and be a part of our youth's growth and success. The students are fun and have a need for knowledge to better their future. The families have high hopes for their students and are so appreciative of what we do for them. This job is awesome because we get to shape and mold our students into successful young adults! Inspiration Inspiration Inspiration The enjoyment and excitement of seeing our youth that do not seem to have a chance, succeed and excel beyond their own belief. Favorite Holiday Thanksgiving, all the family got together and ate some good food, while enjoying each other's company and sharing awesome memories. My Hobbies My Favorite Movie All sports & billiards Contact Us Today

Morgan Lambert Marcom Ignited by passion, we will be the worldwide leader of innovative, effective and efficient solutions to create a better world. Location 1045 West 6th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 Phone Number 719-252-7675 Email morgan.lambert@globaled.one CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT CAN DO SPIRIT Background Background Background I was born and raised in Pueblo Colorado, I am the eldest of three and blessed into a wonderful family. ​ I have attended classes through General Assembly, learning UX and IX design. Before, I attended classes through Front Range Community College and CSU Business. I have been able to use these skills to create visually appealing and user-friendly websites and social media pages for various businesses and organizations. ​ Aside from my professional experiences, I have also been involved in volunteer work in various communities, including the development and day to day tasks of running a dog rescue, a local bar and restaurant and a hotel in Puerto Rico. These experiences have not only allowed me to give back to those in need, but also taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and perseverance. ​ I am a firm believer in continuous learning and growth, and I am always seeking new challenges and opportunities to expand my skillset. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, reading, and spending time with my family and friends. Nature has always been a source of inspiration and clarity for me, and I find it important to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the beauty of the world around us. ​ I am grateful for the support and guidance from my family and mentors throughout my journey, and I am excited for what the future holds. I am confident that my passion for design and my determination to make a positive impact in the world will lead me to success in my career. ​ Thank you for taking the time to read a little bit about me. I look forward to connecting with other professionals and learning from their experiences. Let's inspire each other to reach our full potential and make a difference in our communities. Cheers to growth and making a positive impact together. Inspiration Inspiration Inspiration Inspiration Education isn't something you can finish - Isaac Asimov My Hobbies Include Favorite Holiday I love to paint, hike and enjoy live concerts. I travel when I can. My Bucket List To Travel the world Contact Us Today