Get your own Free Home PageTen years ago, Ben L. Smith high school was stigmatized with one of the most degrading labels a school could receive, "low-performing." This designation was used to label high schools that had low End-of-Course test scores. Not only did Smith have a derogatory academic label, but it also have a reputation for being a school where violence reigned, illicit drugs were readily available and immigrants pre-dominated academically. All those who thought that of Smith can now eat their words.
Smith or should I say, The Institute of International Studies is ranked one of the best high schools in the South, the highest accolade a school could receive in this part of the nation. The school’s name was changed five years ago, when a group of students called the Council of Presidents thought their school should receive a more prestigious and more professional name. Since the school primarily focuses on international studies and has a majority of immigrant students, the name was best suited. Though the school still has the Golden Eagle as its mascot.
This same group of students saved the school from shutting down eight years ago. The Council of Presidents included student body leaders who were pooh-bahs of the various school clubs and organizations. After the redistricting procedures in 2000, Smith was a school of chaos. There were no disciplinary measures, teachers were unqualified to teach, run-down buildings needed major repairs, and trash covered the campus. "It was pure anarchy," said the media. As a result the Council of Presidents went out to the community and sought help to save the school. The local businesses were convinced that these group of students were determined to turn around their school. Thus, Smith began its reconstruction. The changes included structural, curricular and student population.
The most successful aspect of the school is its circular metal-clad structure which looms over the plaza from above the portico. A round window placed at its center gives the impression of an eye focused on the main street, Holden Road. With its metal facade and sleek, simple design, the main building stands in contrast to the rest of the granite-clad complex.
The classrooms are so advanced that it is unbelievable to be technology of 2009. Before you are allowed to enter the room, you must scan your ID card so that it will enable the computer to record your presence. At this time the cameras x-ray your bags for contrabands. It will also track down where you are during the day so that a student could not skip class. Every student is required to wear a chipin his shoe to monitor his whereabouts.
The institute has schools within a school. It is divided into three areas. These are college preparatory, vocational prep and creative arts. The college prep program prepares students to further their education in college. The vocational program will be for students gram will prepare them to work in the workforce with robots, hand-held computers and all the latest technological inventions. The creative program teaches how to create literature and art. Each student must accomplish an internship with the local businesses or artists throughout their four years. If the students do not, they will be unable to graduate. There will be no exceptions.
Admission to the institute is rigorous. The institute requires applicants to have a grade-point average of 3.5 and must demonstrate an interest in one of the programs. Once the student is accepted and decides to go into one of the three programs, then the student cannot break the contract.
The punishment policies also are very severe. If a student causes trouble no matter how minor or major it may be, he or she will be expelled without any exceptions. There is a small percentage of students who are expelled because the majority of the students are those interested in learning and achieving.
Students are very independent. The atmosphere is very similar to the college atmosphere of the 20th century, where students are allowed to do what they choose. Teachers do not hassle students about homework or behavior because they want to treat students like adults. With this type of leeway, it gives students the chance to build their maturity. When a student takes an exam, he does it wherever he pleases as long as he doesn’t share or read another’s work. He must turn it in on deadline.
School spirit has always been a problem in the past, but not for this group of students. If you walk through the halls, you will see that the students are happy and excited to be at school. They take pride in everything they do. Their clubs and organizations are basically ran by the students, the advisers are hands off. The institute has a club for each of the programs, they are responsible for lessons and activities that they want for their program. In terms of sports, the institute is very successful. The most popular sport on campus is soccer. They have won many trophies and championships.
What a reformation! A reformation of the new age that will keep the Golden Eagles to continue to soar to new heights.
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