ZERO GRAVITY PROJECTLet nothing hold you down…

WELCOME TO ZERO GRAVITY PROJECT 2013

Mr. Brandon BolesMr. Parker MilesParent Orientation 1/29/13

WHY ARE WE HERE? Your sons were recommended by one or

more of their teachers, counselor or administrator as young men who show potential, academically and socially, to be leaders and positive role models at Gar-Field HS and beyond.

We’re all here this evening to discuss the purpose and expectations of the Zero Gravity Project, which aims to help our sons and students learn the skills necessary to live up to that potential.

WHAT IS ZGP?Origins:

Gar-Field High school serves on of the most diverse student bodies on Prince William county schools.

There is a need for more Tier 2 interventions intended to identify unique subgroups of students and address their needs academically, emotionally, and socially.

The Zero Gravity Project helps to meet that need

WHAT IS ZGP?Impetus:

Schools that encourage social/emotional development reap important rewards for their students including greater academic success, fewer problem behaviors and improved relationships. (CASEL 2003)

WHAT IS ZGP?Impetus:

52%/58% national 4-year graduation rate for black males and Latino males, respectively

51% GFHS Math SOL pass rate for Black and Latino males (2011-2012; combined)

88% GFHS Reading SOL pass rate for Black and Latino males (2011-2012; combined)

OUR VISIONTo achieve the following upon ZGP completion:

100% 4-year graduation rate for participants

75% GFHS Math SOL pass rate for participants

90% GFHS Reading pass rate for participants

ZERO Behavioral discipline referrals

ZGP GOALS Impact measurable targets and address the

following social and emotional skills: Academic Skills Social Skills and Awareness/Anger Management Healthy Lifestyle Choices Male/Female Relationships/Sexual Health Family Relationships Career Planning/ Post Secondary Education

EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

Interest and investment in your own education

Agreement to attend monthly meetings and Saturday Flight School Sessions

We adhere to the Student Motto…

STUDENT MOTTO…

I dedicate myself to being I dedicate myself to being RESPONSIBLERESPONSIBLE and and ACCOUNTABLEACCOUNTABLE so that so that nothing holds me back…nothing holds me back…

EXPECTATIONS FOR MENTORS

Be role models in speech and action Supplement the social and emotional needs

of students while at school Be a liaison between students, parents, and

their teachers/administrators Help students continue to develop the skills

necessary for success at GFHS and beyond

EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENTS

SUPPORT! ZGP Parents are expected to assist with transportation, monitor academic progress (via Parent Portal) and continue ZGP Lift-Off conversations at home.

OPERATING PLAN Bi-weekly meetings, February through April

(tentative calendar): Feb 12: Academic Skills Feb 26: Social Skills/Anger Management Mar 12: Family Relationships Mar 19: Sexual Health/ Male Female

Relationships Apr 9: Healthy Lifestyle Choices Apr 23: Post Secondary Education/ Career

Planning

OPERATING PLAN Once monthly Saturday outings Partnering with “Restoring Lives”

Develops leadership skills and teamwork Provides structured weekend activity, with a

meal provided(tentative calendar)

Feb 23: Activity TBA Mar 16: Activity TBA Late April : Overnight Virginia College Tour

Summer component with Restoring Lives is in the works. Details will be forthcoming.

Q&A Are there any questions for us?