"We find that our student body is very positively impacted when we have encounters with
Chinese students. In addition, we are very happy to provide an opportunity to Chinese
students in their native land to study Aquinas' Curriculum and thereby gain a Diploma from
us. This results in our "distance student."
--- Dr. Jim Brennan, President of Aquinas High School
"It makes sense to have us accept students whom we know well, have a record of their last
two years of academic achievement that is directly in line with Damien's standards and also
who have been well known to our teachers!"
--- Dr. Merritt Hemenway, Principal of Damien High School
"We are very excited to see the future of connecting with students half a world away for
Upland Christian Academy as a leader in international cooperation"
--- Dr. Tim Hoy, Superintendent of Upland Christian Academy
"I see a great potential in having such a liaison with schools in China and us as it gives
us a chance to interact with their students and also welcome them to our campus for a
summer camp of academics and cultural interaction. We are excited to have this opportunity
made available to us by USGE and we look forward to its huge potential for all concerned!"
--- Dr. Jim Smith, President of Bloomington Christian School
"In a conventional classroom, the course chugs along at a prescribed pace that the teacher
sets, regardless of whether or not students are struggling to keep up or if they are gifted
and being held back by the too-slow pace. Online courses in the sciences provides a
rigorous and comprehensive approach to taking science classes that allow students to work
with real classroom teachers (like me) at their own pace. With simulated 'dry' labs for
students who don’t have access to a real laboratory, the course is an effective alternative
to the traditional classroom."
--- Greg Moretti, Science Department, Aquinas High School
"For self-motivated and driven students, the online educational program provides them the
flexibility to work at their own pace and based on their ability. When a student has a
questions or concerns, I get to address them personally and directly, avoiding the social
stigma of not knowing something that can occur at times in a traditional classroom
setting."
--- Dominic Geiger, Math Department, Damien High School
"I have found that online instruction is a great opportunity for students who enjoy
learning in a non-traditional environment. The courses are fast paced, engaging, and
provide in-depth, rigorous instruction. Students can work at their own pace and schedule
while meeting the required deadlines. Students have the opportunity to interact with their
assigned teacher who can provide individual attention and guide students through the
learning process. Lessons are scaffolded where the mastery of one concept is necessary to
understand a more complex concept. Students are engaged in lessons that are formatted on
the upper end of Bloom's taxonomy where they are required to use critical thinking and
analytical skills. Online instructors monitor student progress, assess mastery and
determine if students need additional instruction in order to successfully master the
concepts.
As an online instructor, I have the wonderful opportunity to assist students in becoming
successful, life-long learners. I enjoy working with students on an individual basis, and
assisting them in becoming successful in their studies. Students benefit from a challenging
learning environment."
--- Kathy Rhodes, Science Department, formal teacher from Griffin Christian School
"Online courses are a great way for students to further their education at their own pace
and in a time frame that works best for them. The flexibility in the material allows
students to study and focus in beneficial ways that are unique to their individual learning
abilities. Students can work from anywhere and ask their instructors questions or submit
work on their own time. Online education gives all students access to top-notch educational
materials."
--- Melissa Pasillas, English Department, Damien High School