Jefferson county educational service center offers a multitude of online services
JCESC Vision
The Jefferson County Educational Service Center will be recognized as a leader in providing services and programs to political subdivisions.
Mission To build capacity, collaborate, and improve.
Belief Statements The Jefferson County Educational Service Center believes
The Jefferson County Educational Service Center will be recognized as a leader in providing services and programs to political subdivisions.
Mission To build capacity, collaborate, and improve.
Belief Statements The Jefferson County Educational Service Center believes
- our employees drive our success.
- being financially strong to provide leadership and services that result in educational opportunities for all learners.
- providing service-oriented, data-driven, and cost-effective programs.
- the importance of increasing student achievement and enhancing teacher instruction.
- promoting and modeling collaboration to enrich learning opportunities.
- 21st Century learning and technology in service and programs.
- life-long learning.
JCESC Virtual Learning Academy
New VLA Courses Now Being Offered Posted 8/21/2015 at 9:43:22 AM STEUBENVILLE-Students enrolling in the Virtual Learning Academy through Jefferson County Educational Service Center will notice even more offerings in the curriculum.
Teresa Silvestri, director of education and outreach at JCESC, said 10 new courses have been added to the program with another 13 being updated to better meet students’ needs. The enhancements are part of the VLA’s efforts to meet requirements through the Ohio Department of Education.
Among the new crop of courses are Advanced Biology, Career Planning, Career-Agriculture, Career-Public Safety, Career-Ohio Means Jobs, Career-Business Administration, Digital Citizenship for grades 3-5, GameMaker Programming I, Marketing Basics, and Mobile Game Design.
“We’ve expanded our Entertainment Technology curriculum so we have more classes on gaming,” Silvestri said. “We’ve also added courses and mini-courses in career training so students can learn about different career paths and the education they need to get there.”
She noted that Digital Citizenship provides elementary school-aged students a chance to learn about using computers, cyberbullying, and being better citizens.
Updates also have been made to 13 core courses, including College Prep Algebra II, U.S. History, Biology, and a range of Integrated English/Language Arts, math, and social studies subjects. In addition to the curriculum, Silvestri said new features have been added to the system to make it even better for students.
“Because of the increase in the use of tablets and mobile devices, we’ve updated the system to be more user-friendly.”
The online curriculum is up and running, and any school or district interested in collaborating with JCESC VLA can visit the website at [email protected] or call (740) 283-3347.
New VLA Courses Now Being Offered Posted 8/21/2015 at 9:43:22 AM STEUBENVILLE-Students enrolling in the Virtual Learning Academy through Jefferson County Educational Service Center will notice even more offerings in the curriculum.
Teresa Silvestri, director of education and outreach at JCESC, said 10 new courses have been added to the program with another 13 being updated to better meet students’ needs. The enhancements are part of the VLA’s efforts to meet requirements through the Ohio Department of Education.
Among the new crop of courses are Advanced Biology, Career Planning, Career-Agriculture, Career-Public Safety, Career-Ohio Means Jobs, Career-Business Administration, Digital Citizenship for grades 3-5, GameMaker Programming I, Marketing Basics, and Mobile Game Design.
“We’ve expanded our Entertainment Technology curriculum so we have more classes on gaming,” Silvestri said. “We’ve also added courses and mini-courses in career training so students can learn about different career paths and the education they need to get there.”
She noted that Digital Citizenship provides elementary school-aged students a chance to learn about using computers, cyberbullying, and being better citizens.
Updates also have been made to 13 core courses, including College Prep Algebra II, U.S. History, Biology, and a range of Integrated English/Language Arts, math, and social studies subjects. In addition to the curriculum, Silvestri said new features have been added to the system to make it even better for students.
“Because of the increase in the use of tablets and mobile devices, we’ve updated the system to be more user-friendly.”
The online curriculum is up and running, and any school or district interested in collaborating with JCESC VLA can visit the website at [email protected] or call (740) 283-3347.
January 2015
NEW VLA COURSES
Please note when enrolling students...new and updated courses have been added to the VLA Curriculum.
Updated courses:
We hope you are as excited as we are for the updates and additions! For more information on these courses please contact us at:[email protected] or 740.283.3347
NEW VLA COURSES
Please note when enrolling students...new and updated courses have been added to the VLA Curriculum.
Updated courses:
- Social Studies 120
- U.S. History
- World History
- Game Production & Design
- Marketing Basics
- AP World History
- ACT Preparation 12th Edition
- Intro to Art (Grades 6-8)
- NEW - Digital Citizenship (Grades 3-5)
- NEW - Advanced Biology
- Biology - updated
- Science Kindergarten - updated
- Science 110 - updated
- Social Studies 130 - updated
We hope you are as excited as we are for the updates and additions! For more information on these courses please contact us at:[email protected] or 740.283.3347
Online Tutoring : A Flexible Way to Develop Students’ Full Potential Posted 2/24/2015 at 2:09:28 PM
Technology has made it possible to receive help at our fingertips. The Jefferson County Educational Service Center (JCESC) is providing even greater access in a venture with an online tutoring program so students within the seven districts it serves could reach their full potential.
Individualized Attention
In partnership with One on One Learning, a company based in Miami, Fla., the JCESC offers a customized learning program to target the student’s specific needs. Each child is assigned a tutor to fit his or her needs and address specific learning styles. Goals are then set and continuously evaluated through the use of individualized benchmark assessments. Since the tutoring occurs online, it gives the student options to conduct sessions either in school or at home.
One on One Learning has worked to strengthen student learning since 2000. In 2010, the company expanded its services from face-to-face tutoring to online help, enabling it to assist more children across the country. To date, One on One works with some 9,500 students throughout the U.S. By joining with the JCESC, it is giving local students access to the program and a chance to increase their test scores and grades.
“We just formed a new partnership with (JCESC) in September,” said Marcel Monnar, Ed.S., founder and president of One on One Learning. “One on One has provided educational services to ESCs and schools throughout the nation. [Our services] are geared towards the needs of the schools and students.”
How It Works
The program is primarily geared towards students with learning deficiencies and those who are at risk, but it also works with high achievers and gifted students. Each student begins with a benchmark evaluation in order to provide an individualized program and examine his or her learning styles and habits. Additionally, it focuses on the student’s strengths to help build confidence. Following the evaluation, the student will receive a recommendation suggesting a number of sessions to help address any deficient skills. The tutor will communicate with the parent, teacher or school contact to ensure the student is on a path to successful learning and a progress report will be generated at the end of each week to help strategize improvement.
“We identify what the needs are, why the student is struggling and how much time to tutor, and then we develop the program of study,” Monnar said.
He explained it is available 24 hours a day at home and during regular hours for those at school, while sessions have been held twice a week or more.
“I think the key is it’s flexible to what the school’s need is. We still do face-to-face program, either one
on one or in a group, but the online program is also done one on one or in a group.
Local Connection
JCESC connected with One on One Learning in an effort to reach two types of people: families and school districts. Since the program is flexible, it works both at home and at school. Monnar said that is a major benefit.
“We’re excited with the possibility of being able to offer schools a 21st Century way of providing assistance. It’s more flexible to schools and for students, as well as low cost,” Monnar commented.
Seeing the Benefits
The Southern Local School District in Salineville, Columbiana County, works with JCESC and is one of two local sites utilizing the program. Superintendent John Wilson said the district has had it for three years and officials have seen much success.
“It’s been fantastic for us,” said Wilson. “We’ve been able to pull kids and give them the intervention they need to help them. We’ve helped 150 kids each year over the last two years and now it’s down to 40. I think it’s a great product.”
Wilson added that the tutoring has also benefitted students who take the Ohio Graduation Test.
Meanwhile, the company’s statistics support the level of improvement seen at Southern Local. A report on program gains showed jumps in online math and reading assessments between fall of 2013 and spring of 2014. Math assessment results for seventh graders went from 40 percent pre-test to 56 post-test; 31 percent to 47 percent in eighth grade; 23 percent to 40 percent in ninth grade; and from 21 percent to 33 percent in 10th grade within the same timeframe. Similar success was seen on reading assessments, with seventh grade students increasing from 21 percent pre-test to 34 percent post-test; eighth graders moving from 39 percent to 53 percent; freshmen going from 43 percent to 52 percent; and sophomores jumping from 32 percent to 45 percent.
Conclusion
Progress like this has JCESC leaders eager to help more students help themselves.
“We are excited to form this venture with One on One Learning. This is a valuable asset to the students and schools we serve,” said Teresa Silvestri, JCESC director of education and outreach. “One on One Learning is providing a pivotal tool to improve learning and help students reach their full potential.”
For more information, contact the JCESC at (740) 283-3347 or [email protected] or view the web site at www.jcesc.k12.oh.us/OnlineTutoring.aspx.
Technology has made it possible to receive help at our fingertips. The Jefferson County Educational Service Center (JCESC) is providing even greater access in a venture with an online tutoring program so students within the seven districts it serves could reach their full potential.
Individualized Attention
In partnership with One on One Learning, a company based in Miami, Fla., the JCESC offers a customized learning program to target the student’s specific needs. Each child is assigned a tutor to fit his or her needs and address specific learning styles. Goals are then set and continuously evaluated through the use of individualized benchmark assessments. Since the tutoring occurs online, it gives the student options to conduct sessions either in school or at home.
One on One Learning has worked to strengthen student learning since 2000. In 2010, the company expanded its services from face-to-face tutoring to online help, enabling it to assist more children across the country. To date, One on One works with some 9,500 students throughout the U.S. By joining with the JCESC, it is giving local students access to the program and a chance to increase their test scores and grades.
“We just formed a new partnership with (JCESC) in September,” said Marcel Monnar, Ed.S., founder and president of One on One Learning. “One on One has provided educational services to ESCs and schools throughout the nation. [Our services] are geared towards the needs of the schools and students.”
How It Works
The program is primarily geared towards students with learning deficiencies and those who are at risk, but it also works with high achievers and gifted students. Each student begins with a benchmark evaluation in order to provide an individualized program and examine his or her learning styles and habits. Additionally, it focuses on the student’s strengths to help build confidence. Following the evaluation, the student will receive a recommendation suggesting a number of sessions to help address any deficient skills. The tutor will communicate with the parent, teacher or school contact to ensure the student is on a path to successful learning and a progress report will be generated at the end of each week to help strategize improvement.
“We identify what the needs are, why the student is struggling and how much time to tutor, and then we develop the program of study,” Monnar said.
He explained it is available 24 hours a day at home and during regular hours for those at school, while sessions have been held twice a week or more.
“I think the key is it’s flexible to what the school’s need is. We still do face-to-face program, either one
on one or in a group, but the online program is also done one on one or in a group.
Local Connection
JCESC connected with One on One Learning in an effort to reach two types of people: families and school districts. Since the program is flexible, it works both at home and at school. Monnar said that is a major benefit.
“We’re excited with the possibility of being able to offer schools a 21st Century way of providing assistance. It’s more flexible to schools and for students, as well as low cost,” Monnar commented.
Seeing the Benefits
The Southern Local School District in Salineville, Columbiana County, works with JCESC and is one of two local sites utilizing the program. Superintendent John Wilson said the district has had it for three years and officials have seen much success.
“It’s been fantastic for us,” said Wilson. “We’ve been able to pull kids and give them the intervention they need to help them. We’ve helped 150 kids each year over the last two years and now it’s down to 40. I think it’s a great product.”
Wilson added that the tutoring has also benefitted students who take the Ohio Graduation Test.
Meanwhile, the company’s statistics support the level of improvement seen at Southern Local. A report on program gains showed jumps in online math and reading assessments between fall of 2013 and spring of 2014. Math assessment results for seventh graders went from 40 percent pre-test to 56 post-test; 31 percent to 47 percent in eighth grade; 23 percent to 40 percent in ninth grade; and from 21 percent to 33 percent in 10th grade within the same timeframe. Similar success was seen on reading assessments, with seventh grade students increasing from 21 percent pre-test to 34 percent post-test; eighth graders moving from 39 percent to 53 percent; freshmen going from 43 percent to 52 percent; and sophomores jumping from 32 percent to 45 percent.
Conclusion
Progress like this has JCESC leaders eager to help more students help themselves.
“We are excited to form this venture with One on One Learning. This is a valuable asset to the students and schools we serve,” said Teresa Silvestri, JCESC director of education and outreach. “One on One Learning is providing a pivotal tool to improve learning and help students reach their full potential.”
For more information, contact the JCESC at (740) 283-3347 or [email protected] or view the web site at www.jcesc.k12.oh.us/OnlineTutoring.aspx.
Ohio Cyber Academy
Ohio Cyber Academy takes learning to another level by providing a web-based curriculum for students statewide in grades K-12. OCA is ideal for those in need of college preparatory courses, enrichment, credit reclamation or who are home schooled, have special needs or are at risk or assigned to an alternative school. The curriculum is fully aligned with Ohio Academic Content Standards, which are rooted in the National Academic Content Standards, and access is available 24/7. It is adaptable to meet students’ needs and provides a user-friendly Learning Management System that can be navigated by students of all ages and abilities. Moreover, for those who qualify there is an option for free tuition and a computer to access their courses as long as they participate in the OCA program. Information can be found at (614) 438-4173 or ohiocyber.com.
Ohio Cyber Academy takes learning to another level by providing a web-based curriculum for students statewide in grades K-12. OCA is ideal for those in need of college preparatory courses, enrichment, credit reclamation or who are home schooled, have special needs or are at risk or assigned to an alternative school. The curriculum is fully aligned with Ohio Academic Content Standards, which are rooted in the National Academic Content Standards, and access is available 24/7. It is adaptable to meet students’ needs and provides a user-friendly Learning Management System that can be navigated by students of all ages and abilities. Moreover, for those who qualify there is an option for free tuition and a computer to access their courses as long as they participate in the OCA program. Information can be found at (614) 438-4173 or ohiocyber.com.
Utica Shale Academy
Another new course offering is coming down the pipeline with the start of the Utica Shale Academy. The conversion school, which is housed at Southern Local High School in Salineville and sponsored by the Jefferson County ESC, is free to students in grades 9-12 and has a customizable digital curriculum along with flexible scheduling. Gas and Oil courses are accredited by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) and graduates receive a high school diploma, certificates and college credit options offered through Eastern Gateway Community College and Stark State College. More information is available by contacting (330) 679-8162, i[email protected] or www.uticashaleschool.com.
Another new course offering is coming down the pipeline with the start of the Utica Shale Academy. The conversion school, which is housed at Southern Local High School in Salineville and sponsored by the Jefferson County ESC, is free to students in grades 9-12 and has a customizable digital curriculum along with flexible scheduling. Gas and Oil courses are accredited by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) and graduates receive a high school diploma, certificates and college credit options offered through Eastern Gateway Community College and Stark State College. More information is available by contacting (330) 679-8162, i[email protected] or www.uticashaleschool.com.
Professional Development and Community Education
PDCE is a key aspect in helping community and business professionals become more competitive in the workplace. By sharpening their skills through learning a second language or using computer software, participants can adapt to an ever-changing work environment. The program is flexible and coursework may be completed at the person’s own pace. Participants can communicate with instructors via email and threaded discussion. For more information, visit jcesc.k12.oh.us/PDCE.aspx or email [email protected].
PDCE is a key aspect in helping community and business professionals become more competitive in the workplace. By sharpening their skills through learning a second language or using computer software, participants can adapt to an ever-changing work environment. The program is flexible and coursework may be completed at the person’s own pace. Participants can communicate with instructors via email and threaded discussion. For more information, visit jcesc.k12.oh.us/PDCE.aspx or email [email protected].
Technology for Teachers
Teachers can learn how to bring technology skills into the classroom by choosing among the following sessions: “Beyond PowerPoint: Online Presentation Tools,” “Using QR Codes in Education,” “Getting Creative with Online Tools,” and “Incorporating 21st Century Learning with Web 2.0 Tools.” Teachers earn one CEU or obtain one graduate credit from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. The sessions require a minimum of 10 attendees, a computer lab and Internet access. Costs include a presenter fee of $250 per session,and $100 CEU fee per attendee or $225 per attendee for graduate credit. Full payment is due prior to the scheduled professional development day, and participants should check with their district State and Federal programs coordinator to see if their Title I, Title IIA and/or Title IVB funding will apply.
Teachers can learn how to bring technology skills into the classroom by choosing among the following sessions: “Beyond PowerPoint: Online Presentation Tools,” “Using QR Codes in Education,” “Getting Creative with Online Tools,” and “Incorporating 21st Century Learning with Web 2.0 Tools.” Teachers earn one CEU or obtain one graduate credit from the Franciscan University of Steubenville. The sessions require a minimum of 10 attendees, a computer lab and Internet access. Costs include a presenter fee of $250 per session,and $100 CEU fee per attendee or $225 per attendee for graduate credit. Full payment is due prior to the scheduled professional development day, and participants should check with their district State and Federal programs coordinator to see if their Title I, Title IIA and/or Title IVB funding will apply.
Entertainment Technology
In this rapidly evolving high-tech world, students can hone their creativity and find new careers by participating in the new Entertainment Technology course. It combines studies of science, technology, engineering and mathematics with the likes of Gaming, Modern Storytelling and Digital Art and provides online, project-based learning so pupils can develop their portfolios and their skills to be successful in today’s global workforce.
Game Design Bootcamp
Keeping with the theme of gaming, the Jefferson County ESC partnered with Zulama to form a Game Design Bootcamp - a mini-course created by faculty at Carnegie Mellon University's Entertainment Technology Center. For a cost of $325, students get five six-hour days full of hands-on activity to create their own games. The sessions, which are offered in July at the Pugliese Training Center at Eastern Gateway Community College, conclude with participants taking home their game, along with a special Game Design Bootcamp T-shirt and a certificate of completion.
Today’s professional game designers understand and implement dynamics from many different types of games. This Bootcamp takes students on a journey to explore ancient cultures, the games played, and how games were designed, using available technology and resources. They also learn about the benefits game playing has within a society. Students prototype and play games, as well as get hands-on experience creating their own original game, which they keep.
Bootcamp attendees learn the mechanics of game design, the creative process of designing a game, and practice what is learned when making a game. Attendees design, build and decorate a game that is tested and played. The Bootcamp was introduced as a supplement to the newly released Entertainment Technology Program through the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA). Through a partnership with Zulama, JCESC/VLA serves as an exclusive provider of Zulama courses within the State of Ohio offering a variety of courses in gaming, modern storytelling, digital art and mobile app and game design. The Bootcamp is a great introduction to gaming for those students who might be interested. Students interested in furthering their learning in Entertainment Technology can do so if their school district uses VLA.
More details are provided by emailing [email protected] or visiting jcesc.k12.oh.us/SummerPrograms.aspx.
In this rapidly evolving high-tech world, students can hone their creativity and find new careers by participating in the new Entertainment Technology course. It combines studies of science, technology, engineering and mathematics with the likes of Gaming, Modern Storytelling and Digital Art and provides online, project-based learning so pupils can develop their portfolios and their skills to be successful in today’s global workforce.
Game Design Bootcamp
Keeping with the theme of gaming, the Jefferson County ESC partnered with Zulama to form a Game Design Bootcamp - a mini-course created by faculty at Carnegie Mellon University's Entertainment Technology Center. For a cost of $325, students get five six-hour days full of hands-on activity to create their own games. The sessions, which are offered in July at the Pugliese Training Center at Eastern Gateway Community College, conclude with participants taking home their game, along with a special Game Design Bootcamp T-shirt and a certificate of completion.
Today’s professional game designers understand and implement dynamics from many different types of games. This Bootcamp takes students on a journey to explore ancient cultures, the games played, and how games were designed, using available technology and resources. They also learn about the benefits game playing has within a society. Students prototype and play games, as well as get hands-on experience creating their own original game, which they keep.
Bootcamp attendees learn the mechanics of game design, the creative process of designing a game, and practice what is learned when making a game. Attendees design, build and decorate a game that is tested and played. The Bootcamp was introduced as a supplement to the newly released Entertainment Technology Program through the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA). Through a partnership with Zulama, JCESC/VLA serves as an exclusive provider of Zulama courses within the State of Ohio offering a variety of courses in gaming, modern storytelling, digital art and mobile app and game design. The Bootcamp is a great introduction to gaming for those students who might be interested. Students interested in furthering their learning in Entertainment Technology can do so if their school district uses VLA.
More details are provided by emailing [email protected] or visiting jcesc.k12.oh.us/SummerPrograms.aspx.
Online Summer Enrichment Program
Schools may be out come June, but the Online Summer Enrichment Program ensures that children do not fall behind during the summer months. Certified, highly qualified teachers monitor coursework and answer any questions the students may have, and at the conclusion, each child will receive a “Certificate of Completion.” The program is available 24/7 anywhere Internet is available, and E-KIDS lessons can be accessed between mid-May and mid-August. The enrollment fee is $125 per student but $25 discounts are offered for siblings. Information is available by calling (740) 283-3347 or emailing [email protected].
E-Kids Summer Enrichment Program: The E-Kids Online Enrichment Program is offered to students entering grades K-8. This program is completely online, and can be completed any time of day. Students are provided with a username and password to gain access to our Learning Management System, where the Virtual Learning Academy is housed. Lessons included within the E-KIDS programs of Math, English/Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Spanish and a concluding Summer Enrichment Project.
Students have access to a full lesson covering material taught in the selected grade level, giving them a head-start on the coming year. Lessons include content and assessment, as well as enhancements like interactive games, worksheets, videos, podcasts, audio files and more! In addition to expanding their knowledge base in the core subjects and the Spanish Language, students culminate the experience with The Summer Enrichment Project. This project provides students with an opportunity to develop 21st Century Skills in an online learning environment. Students can explore their creativity and build confidence in their skills, while becoming more proficient in information, media and technology skills.
Schools may be out come June, but the Online Summer Enrichment Program ensures that children do not fall behind during the summer months. Certified, highly qualified teachers monitor coursework and answer any questions the students may have, and at the conclusion, each child will receive a “Certificate of Completion.” The program is available 24/7 anywhere Internet is available, and E-KIDS lessons can be accessed between mid-May and mid-August. The enrollment fee is $125 per student but $25 discounts are offered for siblings. Information is available by calling (740) 283-3347 or emailing [email protected].
E-Kids Summer Enrichment Program: The E-Kids Online Enrichment Program is offered to students entering grades K-8. This program is completely online, and can be completed any time of day. Students are provided with a username and password to gain access to our Learning Management System, where the Virtual Learning Academy is housed. Lessons included within the E-KIDS programs of Math, English/Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Spanish and a concluding Summer Enrichment Project.
Students have access to a full lesson covering material taught in the selected grade level, giving them a head-start on the coming year. Lessons include content and assessment, as well as enhancements like interactive games, worksheets, videos, podcasts, audio files and more! In addition to expanding their knowledge base in the core subjects and the Spanish Language, students culminate the experience with The Summer Enrichment Project. This project provides students with an opportunity to develop 21st Century Skills in an online learning environment. Students can explore their creativity and build confidence in their skills, while becoming more proficient in information, media and technology skills.