Chapter 3: What FUMA Can Do.

Again- this is the third of 3 chapters of a case study that I thought would be helpful as you consider a possible school change for your son. The first chapter was entitled "Why Change Schools", and the second was entitled "Why FUMA". This third and final chapter will be called "What FUMA Can Do". So far in our story we've gotten to know Junior, a rising sophomore at his moderately sized public school. We've learned that his achievement in school has fallen short of his potential as measured by test scores and teacher input. We've seen that his behavior, while historically stellar, hit a few minor snags during this past school year. Finally, we know that 25% of Junior's high school career is now complete, that his local public school environment is not likely to change, and that Junior has begun to display a hint of indifference toward his circumstance. It's time to put the pieces of this puzzle together- sooner rather than later. Junior needs a fresh start in an altogether new environment. What follows is a clear list of specific ways that the Academy may be able to help him. Problem: Junior is in a relatively large academic setting where teachers are responsible for the academic progress of hundreds of students. He represents only a small fraction of their teaching load, and despite the best efforts of all involved, the system is not set up to provide for individual attention to students. Solution: At FUMA, classes are small in both the middle and upper schools. Further, in the upper school grades, students take only one class at a time for nearly 2 months, so teachers and students have an opportunity to dealve deeply into content area. Homework is supervised and streamlined, as students have only one textbook and notebook to manage. Exams are focused, as students don't have to split time studying multiple, unrelated topics. Problem: You are unable to adequately oversee Junior's homework efforts each school night. Solution: At FUMA a mandatory 2 hour long supervised study hall period is held each school night. During this time, students are expected to remain seated silently at their desks. There is no eating or drinking allowed. No radios are playing. And there are faculty and staff members in each of our barracks ensuring student efforts. Problem: Junior seems to spend a lot of time fiddling with gadgets and games- staying connected with his peer group largely through texting and IM. He also spends a great deal of time with online activities and gaming. Solution: At FUMA, cell phones, iPods, and game systems are not unauthorized. Computer use is strictly monitored and students are required to observe our Acceptable Use Policy. FUMA has some of the most modern technoligal facilities available. All of our barracks rooms have network connectivity, and there are several wireless environments. We have computer workstations for nearly every student on campus, and we do permit students to have laptops. The difference is that we believe that computers are educational tools, not entertainment portals. Thus, WE control the environment. Problem: Some of Junior's underachievement is due to his difficulty prioritizing which school work should take priority. Solution: FUMA's One Subject Plan alleviates the need for students to prioritize multiple class schedules and assignment deadlines. Further, the streamlined approach taken at the Academy allows our teachers to help students develop study skills that they will take with them to college.