What is Freshman Leadership Academy?

This full year course is specifically designed to help freshmen students successfully navigate high school. The goal is to help students learn more about themselves so they can make informed decisions in regards to academic and personal choices. Students will also experience a variety of lessons to prepare them for future AP or dual credit courses.

What topics will be covered each semester?

First semester we will focus on self-awareness, self-efficacy, and study skills. Topics will include: learning styles, goal setting, information processing, study strategies, stress, sleep, time management.

Second semester we will focus on leadership in action. Topics will include: effective communication, leadership styles, social psychology concepts, relationships with peers, relationships with adults/authority figures, impact of social media, and conflict resolution. We will end the year with a culminating leadership project. There will also be an opportunity for students to fulfill the Harper’s Promise service hour requirement.

I do not want my student to be overwhelmed with too many classes. Should they just take a study hall?

They certainly can take a study hall. However, we will constantly be reinforcing appropriate study skills and how to manage coursework. As a result, there will be time EVERY day for students to work on their assignments for other classes using the principles discussed in Freshmen Leadership. Furthermore, students can earn one credit hour and the grade earned in the course will be calculated into their G.P.A. This is NOT true of study hall.

How can I sign up?

The course code is R226/R236 or Leadership for Life 1 and 2. You can also communicate that you would like to enroll in the course with your counselor.

Who should I contact for questions?

Lisa Vosburgh is an AP psychology teacher. You can contact her at LVOSBURGH@D211.ORG or at 224-653-1470.

-Does this class count for college credit?

YES after you submit an AP Portfolio (2 presentations and 2 papers) and a written exam

-How do I get the Capstone?

You must take AP Seminar and AP Resource and four additional AP classes as well as receive a 3 or higher on each.

Why does this class matter?

This class is the biggest “you’ll thank me later” class ever. You will learn skills that you will use for the remainder of your education and beyond. You will learn how to argue, present, and build confidence in your skills.

What skills or material will I learn?

This class is not content based but skill based. YOU GET TO CHOOSE WHAT YOU LEARN ABOUT!!! You can choose topics that you are interested in and then you research that for your various projects.

-Does this class count for college credit?

YES after you submit an AP Portfolio (2 presentations and 2 papers) and a written exam

-How do I get the Capstone?

You must take AP Seminar and AP Resource and four additional AP classes as well as receive a 3 or higher on each.

-Do I have to take AP Seminar first?

YES, it is a College Board requirement.

Why does this class matter?

This class will teach you to research at the collegiate level. You will go to college with skills that many of your peers won’t learn until their third or fourth year! This class will give you skills that will help you throughout your life!

What skills or material will I learn?

This is a skilled based class and you choose ONE research question to analyze for the entire school year. You will do original research and even gather your own data through interviews, surveys, etc.