Presentation of the Global Studies Diplomas:
Good afternoon! It is my great honor to present today the first ever Monomoy Regional High School Global Studies Diplomas. My name is John Dickson, and I am the Director of Global Studies and a Civics Teacher here at MRHS.
Two years ago, I attended a graduation for my niece in North Carolina, and learned more about a Global Studies Diploma program at her school, where my brother teaches history. The program encourages students to go beyond the standard curriculum to connect to the larger world and then rewards them with additional recognition at graduation.
It seemed like a timely idea to bring to Monomoy. With support from Mr. Burkhead and Dr. Blanchard, we formed a committee of students and teachers, prepared a proposal, and presented it to the superintendent and the school committee early last year. With their approval, we enrolled our first students last spring.
The program requires the completion of certain required courses, further study in an area of concentration, participation in outside activities such as our Global Service Trips, completion and presentation of a Senior Research Capstone, and maintenance of an 80 or better in all related coursework. We also established a Diploma with Distinction for those who meet higher requirements and maintain a 90 or better in all elements.
We included in the proposal the concept of a transitional program for the Class of 2018, where they could earn the Global Studies diploma through the completion of most of the program’s requirements and the Senior Capstone. Today we award these diplomas to five graduating seniors.
These students completed their research papers, and presented their Capstones at our first Global Studies Fair last week. Four of them participated in the program development committee, two of them went on our visit to Brimmer and May School last year to learn from their program, four of them have participated in STAND lobbying trips to Washington DC, and two of these students participated in the Global Service Trip to the Dominican Republic.
These students have pioneered the Capstone process, and set a great example for the students who will follow their lead. They leave here well prepared to take on the challenges of college research projects, and better attuned to the complexities of global issues. They are excellent students and wonderful people. They have earned this recognition.
The first Monomoy Regional High School Global Studies Diplomas are awarded to Livia Graham…. And to Elizabeth Pandiscio ….. And to Patrick Smeltzer.
The first Monomoy Regional High School Global Studies Diplomas with Distinction are awarded to Francesca Barr…. And To Grace Boyle
In closing I would like to thank the Monomoy Regional School Committee, Superintendent Carpenter, Director of Curriculum Dr. Blanchard, Principal Burkhead, the members of the Global Studies Development Committee, the teachers and administrators of MRHS, and all the students who have enrolled in the program. I look forward to the continued growth of the program.
