From Deseret News archives:
Utah lawmakers like summer sessions
But some 800 students in the Alpine School District's summer-school session are doing just that.
Students say the summer classes aren't too bad. However, state legislators touring the school sites Tuesday are jumping with joy over Alpine's pilot program.
"From a legislative perspective, we're very happy," said Rep. John Dougall, R-American Fork.
The district's extended-year program at the high school answers several issues state lawmakers have been talking about for years, including providing teachers with opportunities for greater pay and getting optimal use out of school facilities.
"I think it's terrific a very creative approach," said Rep. Lorie Fowlke, R-Orem. "It's a great use of resources, both in buildings and teachers. And it benefits our students enormously."
Alpine district launched its first block of summer classes on June 2 at two sites: Mountain View High School in Orem for south-area students and Lehi High School for north-area students.
The classes, which are two hours and 10 minutes, run from 7:50 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. The second summer school block begins June 24.
Katie Egbert, 16, of Orem, is taking geometry, English and computer technology. "It's a really good opportunity to make up credits," she said. "It does seem to take up my whole day. It's cool though. Whatever. I can hang out with my friends on the weekend."
Some of the students are retaking classes in hopes of better understanding the subject and to receive a higher grade. Other students want to get ahead to free up their schedules during the regular school year for other activities or to prepare for higher-level courses.
Kelton Seely, 16, of Orem, is taking English, math and health. "I'm just retaking them," Seely said. He said the summer classes are more individualized, and the personal attention has helped him understand the concepts better.
The classes range in size from 15 to 25 students.
Belen Gonzalez, 16, of Lindon, is taking geometry so she can move right into Algebra II in the fall. This will also free up her schedule for other college prep classes, she said. "I could even graduate with more credits," Gonzalez said.
There is a $25 registration fee per summer course, but if a student successfully passes the class, a refund is given.
"Kids can really take advantage of this, and we feel very good about it," said Alpine District Superintendent Vernon Henshaw.
Recent comments
Ironically, if done right this might actually save money (on a per...
Anonymous | June 11, 2008 at 12:07 p.m.
I'm glad the legislators are happy. How long will that last?
Chuck | June 11, 2008 at 10:56 a.m.
It just takes money! The current program takes away from some other...
Chuck | June 11, 2008 at 10:55 a.m.
State legislators and Alpine School District officials tour summer classes at Mountain View High School on Tuesday. The extended-year program allows students to retake classes they have failed or to take electives they couldn't fit in during the regular school year, freeing them up for other electives or activities next year.
- Fall sports academic all-state 7:25 p.m.
- Welcome home RSL photo gallery 7:13 p.m.
- Truck driver dies in rollover 6:34 p.m.
- Girls basketball rankings 6:31 p.m.
- Boys basketball rankings 6:26 p.m.
- Nordqvist wins at LPGA 6:15 p.m.
- S.L. could up fees to rec facilities 5:55 p.m.
- Utah GOP opposes ethics initiative 5:45 p.m.
- Alternative to climate change? 5:40 p.m.
- Utah sells most 'New Moon' tickets 5:39 p.m.
- Real Champions
- Bronco, Kyle rubber match
- Protests against Phoenix LDS temple
- RSL wins MLS Cup on penalty kicks
- BYU's Lamb, Jorgensen reprimanded
- Plenty on line for rivalry game
- Time for big matchups in WAC, MWC
- BCS at-large bids up for grabs
- Hall, Johnson matchup key
- Is talking about religion taboo?
- Buttars wants to limit gay rights laws
214 - Glenn Beck to enter politics?
212 - RSL wins MLS Cup on penalty kicks
193 - Palin plans tour stop in Utah
178 - BYU records with win
132 - Palin's book shows she's unqualified
131 - Bronco, Kyle rubber match
124 - BYU cuts Women's Research Inst.
103 - Officer cleared in Cardall Taser case
103 - Jazz finally win in San Antonio
99
Are you a small business owner who can't afford a holiday party this year?
Cut Blocks are legal, period. Ever seen a running back try to take on a D...
Hatch deserves to be censured for the HOLY WAR comment. It would be an even...
In 2006 and 2007 when BYU was winning MWC titles yet needed LUCKY to pull out...
@Anonymous 1:34 p.m.: "Go (sic) she ran a business poorly." She ran the...
I guess it's rivalry week, because all the comments I've read today have been...
If I may offer a bit of education to the misinformed... An LDS meeting house...
Springville should be #1 in 4A.
"I about fell out of my chair when I read Anon 9:06's post that "liberals...
"If you live in Utah, you are likely to be surrounded by mormons. " You...
Hey, to Mr. "Important Statistic," do your homework next time -- if you can...

