A program designed to encourage higher education
In 2004, the Tulsa Metro Chamber in partnership with Tulsa Public Schools, launched an intensive education program called Oklahoma Scholars.
The program encourages eighth grade students to enroll in a more rigorous curriculum in high school. The coursework will better prepare them for post-secondary education and training, providing more opportunities as they begin work.
Students participating in the Oklahoma Scholars course of study receive incentives to continue the coursework, and those who complete the program earn special recognition at graduation. In Texas and Arkansas, students in the Scholars program have higher ACT and SAT scores, take fewer remedial courses at the college level, and demonstrate better college completion rates.
Oklahoma Scholars at work with students
Business leaders present the program to eighth grade students by demonstrating a real-world monthly budget based on a $32,900 per year salary. Students actively participate in the discussion, and are typically shocked to realize they have no money left at the end of the month for clothing and entertainment. The presentation illustrates that their job supports their lifestyle, and their career possibilities are directly linked to the training or education they receive when they graduate from high school.
Over 50 business representatives have completed the two-hour training session required to become a classroom presenter. The Chamber needs more presenters to help implement the program, and members of the business community are encouraged to volunteer.
For more information about Oklahoma Scholars or to become a classroom presenter, call Heather Johnson at 560-0218 or email heatherjohnson@tulsachamber.com.
In 2004, the Tulsa Metro Chamber in partnership with Tulsa Public Schools, launched an intensive education program called Oklahoma Scholars.The program encourages eighth grade students to enroll in a more rigorous curriculum in high school. The coursework will better prepare them for post-secondary education and training, providing more opportunities as they begin work.
Students participating in the Oklahoma Scholars course of study receive incentives to continue the coursework, and those who complete the program earn special recognition at graduation. In Texas and Arkansas, students in the Scholars program have higher ACT and SAT scores, take fewer remedial courses at the college level, and demonstrate better college completion rates.
Oklahoma Scholars at work with students
Business leaders present the program to eighth grade students by demonstrating a real-world monthly budget based on a $32,900 per year salary. Students actively participate in the discussion, and are typically shocked to realize they have no money left at the end of the month for clothing and entertainment. The presentation illustrates that their job supports their lifestyle, and their career possibilities are directly linked to the training or education they receive when they graduate from high school.
Over 50 business representatives have completed the two-hour training session required to become a classroom presenter. The Chamber needs more presenters to help implement the program, and members of the business community are encouraged to volunteer.
For more information about Oklahoma Scholars or to become a classroom presenter, call Heather Johnson at 560-0218 or email heatherjohnson@tulsachamber.com.