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PWCS to build new non-traditional campus to meet student needs

A groundbreaking in the fall of 2016 at Aden and Joplin Roads in Manassas will launch the construction of a three-story, state-of-the-art facility that promises far more than typical academic programs and opportunities for non-traditional secondary students and those with special needs in Prince William County.

When completed in 2018,  the new center will merge and expand the successful offerings of the New Directions and New Dominion Alternative Education Centers and PACE East. New Directions Principal Robert Eichorn will supervise the combined offerings.

All three schools are contributing to plans for the new facility to ensure that every student can progress like never before through access to a full range of programs and appropriate levels of instruction, according to a news release from Prince William County Schools (PWCS).

Combining centers and staff means students attending the non-traditional campus will not be limited to educational opportunities based on placement. Services will be student centered, and student-to-student interaction and mentoring will be fostered as part of the school culture.

Key elements of the center include:

• An accredited alternative high school;
•  Flexible scheduling;
• Advanced placement classes:
• Accelerated and remedial courses; and
• Career and Technical Education.

Students will benefit from a year-round educational model, providing opportunities for summer study to meet graduation requirements. Anticipated services will assist middle school and special needs students in successfully transitioning to high school and ultimately to college and careers.

The campus will have a comprehensive school counseling department, student clubs, intramural athletics, and extra-curricular activities.

Its flexible design will include resources such as multiple computer and science labs, a media center, a gymnasium, and a multi-purpose stage for the performing arts. There will also be a full service cafeteria, an art studio, and an outdoor greenhouse. Classrooms will get the latest technology to support 21st century learning and skills development.

“Teamwork was critical in developing physical plans for the nontraditional campus” says New Directions Principal Robert Eichorn, who becomes principal of the new non-traditional campus on July 1, 2016. “But the real excitement is just beginning,”

In taking on the new role, Eichorn will assume oversight of all three non-traditional schools and work in concert with the principals of New Dominion and PACE East to develop transition plans. This will include creation of advisory committees that will emphasize participation from students, parents, community stakeholders, and staff.

The next phase, Eichorn says, will involve an inter-school planning team to combine the best practices of three great schools with some new ideas to deliver something new and unprecedented in Virginia. “We are creating a thriving academic community where opportunities once thought impossible can now be achieved,” he says.

Professional learning communities and educator support teams will help to meet the essential learning requirements of each student and the professional needs of each staff member, in a rapidly growing and diversifying community.

“Students facing serious socio-economic and emotional challenges, and the greatest need for intellectual opportunities deserve the best schools, teachers, and support services.” Eichorn says, explaining the vision for the new non-traditional campus.

“When provided with a World-Class Education, these students can become self-sufficient, confident, and motivated life-long learners. Making that happen is what the non-traditional campus is all about.”

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