www.crecschools.org/mlc Page 1 October 2014 ● Issue 2 ● Metropolitan Learning Center ● (860)242-7834

Our study abroad programs for U.S. high school students are merit-based scholarship programs. Most programs have no language prerequisites and usually beginners are welcome. Gap year students are also encouraged to apply for most programs, as long as they remain age eligible. We are particularly trying to reach young people who would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in a study abroad experience.

The National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) offers merit-based scholarships to study one of seven critical foreign languages: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Hindi, Korean, Persian (Tajiki), Russian and Turkish. The NSLI-Y program is designed to immerse participants in the cultural life of the host country, provide formal and informal language practice, and spark a lifetime interest in foreign languages and cultures. The application deadline for summer 2015 and academic year 2015-2016 programs is October 30, 2014. Visit www.nsliforyouth.org for more information.

The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad Program offers merit-based scholarships to spend an academic year in countries that may include Bosnia & Herzegovina, Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Oman, Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Tunisia, and Turkey. This program increases understanding between people in the United States and people in countries with significant Muslim populations. Students live with host families, attend local high schools, do community service, and complete a capstone project. Applications for academic year 2015-16 programs are due January 7, 2015. Visit www.yes-abroad.orgfor more information.

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX) offers merit-based scholarships to spend an academic year in Germany. The program was established in 1983 to celebrate German-American friendship based on common values of democracy. Students live with host families, attend local schools, and participate in community life in Germany. For more information and application deadlines, visit the organization in charge of recruitment for your state at http://www.usagermanyscholarship.org/.

For more information on exchanges sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, visit www.exchanges.state.gov or watch this video about U.S. high school student exchanges. To receive printed brochures and/or posters about our study abroad opportunities, send an email with your request to youthprograms@state.gov.

For information on having an international experience without leaving home, consider hosting a Department of State-sponsored exchange student. Learn more at http://hosting.state.gov

www.crecschools.org/mlc Page 2 October 2014 ● Issue 2 ● Metropolitan Learning Center ● (860)242-7834

PTO Message

PTO President Renae France and the

rest of the team would like to thank all

those who have attended PTO

meetings thus far. Please remember our

Fall Fundraisers have started and all

funds raised benefit each grade level to

plan programs for your children. Please

email Renae France at

naerae@sbcglobal.net for more

information.

All of our faculty members are reading a book called

Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck. Her research focuses

on the idea that there are two major types of

mindsets: a fixed mindset and a growth mindset.

People range in a spectrum between these two

mindsets… The premise of the fixed mindset is that

we are born with intelligence and talents or we are

not. Those with growth mindset believe that

through effort, intelligence and ability can be gained

and increased

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News from the MLC Library

• Circulation: We have circulated over 900 books since the start of school, breaking all previous

circulation records for the start of school! This is so exciting! Trends do show that most of these books

are being borrowed and read by middle school students, so we are hoping to increase the use of the

library by the high school students.

• Library Procedures: FYI, there are no late fees for books. However, I encourage students to

return their books so that others may also enjoy them. If students do need a longer time because they

haven’t finished, books are borrowed in 3 week increments and can be renewed.

• Donations: We are always building our collection for students, so if you have any gently used

young adult books, we will gladly accept your donations.

• Scholastic Book Fair: We sold over $1800 worth of books which means that our library earned

over 700 Scholastic dollars with which we will purchase books. Our book fair continues through the

online fair at http://scholastic.com/fair!

Thanks for all your support!!! Suzanne Artis, School Librarian

On Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at 8:00am, the Preliminary

SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) will be

administered at the Metropolitan Learning Center. We are administering this test to help our sophomores and juniors gain

experience in taking the SAT.

On Wednesday October 8, 2014 during the students’ Focus Study the students

will attend a presentation to be familiarized with PSAT, to discuss procedures for

testing day and also to receive a practice booklet.

If the student would like the practice booklet beforehand they can see Mrs.

Manfredi in the school counseling office to receive it.

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Madelyn (7) and Justin (6)

plant flowers as a part of

their advisory service

project.

Metropolitan Learning Center 3nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival.

Thursday October 23rd , 2014 from 5:30-9pm.

Please come and enjoy our student performances, poetry, history of Latin Music and its impact on the American culture. There will be authentic delicious Latin foods from different Latin-American

countries. It will be an unforgettable experience to be shared with families, students, teachers, and most of all; with our community! EVERYONE IS INVITED GRADES 6-12 students, parents and family.

Bring the family and all your friends! Save that date Tickets will be sold in advance for $5.00 LIMITED SEATING IS AVAILABLE

and $ 6.00 at the door.

We are looking for parent volunteers to help out with the event.

For more information please contact Mr. Santiesteban jsantiesteban@crec.org x 2348 or Mrs. Thibault tthibault@crec.org x2364

You cooperation will be greatly appreciated. Only working together we can assure that

all our students are successful.

MLC

Advisory

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Thank you for the donations for grade level

baskets at Open House.

Donations are still being collected in each pod

office.

Those that are interested in donating a raffle

prize, know of a restaurant that would be

interested, or more information please contact

Greg Ranaldi at granaldi@crec.org

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