Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
LOL - you're mistaken it doesn't skip anything and goes much deeper into all these topics it's also known to require 3-4 hours of homework a night
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
LOL - you're mistaken it doesn't skip anything and goes much deeper into all these topics it's also known to require 3-4 hours of homework a night
You cannot reduce the material and go deeper especially when you are condensing a year class into a semester class.
My 2 kids who went to Blair, both took Alg 2 in 8th. Nothing was skipped. These kids need faster paced, more in depth math, and Blair is the place to get it. No one has the depth of Math, Science & Comp Sci Blair has. No one. The awards it wins, the NMSF it has, are head & shoulders above everyone else.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
For someone with no experience with the program, you sure seem to think you're an expert.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
No it’s not. There are three different magnet pathways. Take a look at the link that was shared. Functions kids take algebra 2 in 8th grade, then they take functions which combines three semesters of already intense magnet courses into two. It’s bizarre how little you seem to know. You can read all about it on the magnet website.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
No it’s not. There are three different magnet pathways. Take a look at the link that was shared. Functions kids take algebra 2 in 8th grade, then they take functions which combines three semesters of already intense magnet courses into two. It’s bizarre how little you seem to know. You can read all about it on the magnet website.
I dont know what is happe in MS math sequence now. When my kid attended TPMS magnet, less than 5 kids took Algebra 2 in 8th grade. Majority of DC’s took geometry in 8th grade. In Blair SMAC, 1/3 of 9th graders took Function. Skipping Algebra 2 was a common practice.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
No it’s not. There are three different magnet pathways. Take a look at the link that was shared. Functions kids take algebra 2 in 8th grade, then they take functions which combines three semesters of already intense magnet courses into two. It’s bizarre how little you seem to know. You can read all about it on the magnet website.
I dont know what is happe in MS math sequence now. When my kid attended TPMS magnet, less than 5 kids took Algebra 2 in 8th grade. Majority of DC’s took geometry in 8th grade. In Blair SMAC, 1/3 of 9th graders took Function. Skipping Algebra 2 was a common practice.
You understand there are other ms beyond tpms and sone offer that track, right! Skipping algebra 2 makes no sense.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
No it’s not. There are three different magnet pathways. Take a look at the link that was shared. Functions kids take algebra 2 in 8th grade, then they take functions which combines three semesters of already intense magnet courses into two. It’s bizarre how little you seem to know. You can read all about it on the magnet website.
I dont know what is happe in MS math sequence now. When my kid attended TPMS magnet, less than 5 kids took Algebra 2 in 8th grade. Majority of DC’s took geometry in 8th grade. In Blair SMAC, 1/3 of 9th graders took Function. Skipping Algebra 2 was a common practice.
Kind of except they're not skipping algebra 2 . These kids are able to move at a faster pace and manage to condense two years into one.
Go to magnet, don’t go to the magnet. Nobody cares which you choose, but don’t spread misinformation. It is true that the magnets do not help with the desire to get into only Elite schools. No one truly knows what colleges want anymore, to be honest. You go to the magnet schools to learn more and feed your kids desire for knowledge. Someone said earlier, it harder, more homework, more travel to get there, the list goes on. But for many, its the first time their kid is actually challenged and excited for school. The first time they find ‘their group’ of people like minded like them. Do not let the one poster who clearly has no idea of these programs try to explain them. The math IS more challenging. The Science is more challenging. The CompSci is more challenging.
Anonymous wrote:Go to magnet, don’t go to the magnet. Nobody cares which you choose, but don’t spread misinformation. It is true that the magnets do not help with the desire to get into only Elite schools. No one truly knows what colleges want anymore, to be honest. You go to the magnet schools to learn more and feed your kids desire for knowledge. Someone said earlier, it harder, more homework, more travel to get there, the list goes on. But for many, its the first time their kid is actually challenged and excited for school. The first time they find ‘their group’ of people like minded like them. Do not let the one poster who clearly has no idea of these programs try to explain them. The math IS more challenging. The Science is more challenging. The CompSci is more challenging.
+1 My kid found their people for four years. That is worth everything.
If your kid loves academic competitions, blair magnet provides many opportunities and peers.
However, no or very little improvement on their college admissions if the students can get same states and EC achievement.
Anonymous wrote:Yes. I think for our children magnets were absolutely worth it for college admissions.
The pathway for both of my kids -> PHS SMCS -> UMD. We are Asian-American first gen immigrants. Our kids chose STEM careers. Both had perfect stats in GPA and SAT, NMS, ECs, Internships and research papers etc. We knew that they would not get into top private schools based on the fact that many of their peers in PHS look and achieve like them.
Apart from that, they also did not apply extensively. They applied to 6 schools in all. Since UMD was in-state and great for CS, Physics and Math (both did double majors, both had Math in common), that was their lowest bar in terms of where they wanted to apply. This did not leave very many colleges for them that were ranked higher for these majors. This is not a drawback but a boon. Imagine having a college like UMD as your safety. To be honest, UMD was very much their dream school, target and safety all rolled in one.
Having done STEM research internships during PHS (It is a SMCS requirement) and having written a paper based on that - they also found it easy to get future internships @ UMD right from the get go. Having been through the rigor, pace, and curriculum of SMCS and having so many AP and post-AP credits transfer, allowed them to juggle two hard majors, internships, and socializing in college with ease. They watched many of their college classmates - either do very poorly in hard courses or study very hard to stay afloat or do well but without any outside interests. In other words, the training and exposure they got at PHS made college seem easy.
The kind of professional training that the SMCS teaches these students in terms of advocating for oneself, building a network of peers, acquiring skill sets, acquiring credentials, creating and seeking opportunities, time management and organization is invaluable for college and professional life. They also were hugely networked at UMD with other area students from DMV because they had either competed with them in other arenas or had crossed paths with them.
Last, but not the least - since they are already in-state in a public university and the cost is already low. Therefore, even a small merit aid usually covers a significant amount of tuition if not all. This merit $$$ was like a payday for the work that they did in magnet HS.
For us, magnet STEM schools was worth it for succeeding in college and professional life. It made the college admission process easy too.
Of course, I don't mean to be glib and say that it was all easy. To be in the magnet track meant that my kids were performing academically at very high levels from ES. They were acing all kinds of tests that was being administered by MCPS- Raven, TerraNova, MAPS - and tests like JHU-CTY outside of school.
They were consistent from K-12, and also worked hard to have a well rounded resume - ECs, volunteer work, competitions, honor societies, internships, research papers, no discipline issues, consistent performance, no absenteeism, juggling leadership responsibilities, self advocating etc.
This is my child's experience as well. Finishing up SMACs now with a UMd presidential scholarship and direct admit to CS. Will now be paying very low tuition for a top-ranked CS school.
I'd say the magnet helped a lot with UMd admissions. I am not sure helped elsewhere but will never know. I am sure my child does not stand out as much as they would at home HS. Also I do not think the school profile that gets sent to colleges does the magnet students any favors.
If you don’t mind, Could you elaborate on this further?
Sure. Still in the middle of college admissions since I have a current senior. I assume you are wondering about the shool profile comment. My understanding is that without a school ranking, some colleges will try to guess based on the GPA bands. For Poolesville, the top bands are 78% for unweighted GPA and 58% for weighted. So after 4 years of hard work and taking all the hardest math classes (functions etc), my 4.0 UW 4.7W GPA kid only appears to be in the top 58% of their class. UMd will understand this, but other schools may not.
Different poster. This might as well have been in a different language. What do you mean by “GPA bands”? Can you explain to me like I’m an idiot?
+1 Isn't it true that most T20 colleges tear apart the GPA calculation anyways, and re-calculate based on their own scale. But, I don't know what they might do with the SMCS's specialty classes like, Analysis 2, Quantum Physics, Organic Chemistry, etc.?? Do those get weighted more in the re-calculation??
I don't think they do. Also, some of the SMACs classes are not even listed properly on the transcripts.
They were on ours at least when we got a copy of it last year.
Well i thought so too at first. Example of this would be the SMACS 9th grade computer class listed on transcript as "Foundations of Computer Science". Unless someone is familiar with SMACS they would not not know that this is actually also AP Computer Science.
Magnet CS 9 is noted as Advanced Level class and part of a Special Program. Although there are a few honors classes that get this designation, it's mostly reserved for APs.
0.5 credit per semester
Functions begun in Algebra 1 are continued and expanded to include all forms of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and circular functions. The study of each includes a precise definition, a consideration of graphs and applications, an analysis of distinguishing and interesting features, and an identification of related tangents and slopes. Students study trigonometry, approached from circular functions, conics, limits, and derivatives.
Prerequisite: Magnet or Honors Geometry
Grade Level: 9 - 10 - 11 - 12
No repeats for credit
It’s algebra 2 and precalculus in a very condensed fast paced schedule.
That sounds like a bad idea. Better just to start algebra in 6th.
You should meet with Peter Ostrander at he Blair magnet. I am sure he would be very interested in your opinion.
I emailed the magnet folks and they did not return my email. So, we declined.
You emailed them what?
To discuss the math and other options.
I have heard the math is a Sh#t show at Blair and one really bad teacher.
But, back to the topic - is it worth it? Didn't seem worth it to us. You don't have any scheduling flexibility, math wouldn't be accelerated for my chid who is already accelerated and they'd have to take magnet classes they aren't interested in. Why rush Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal when they are important for progression?
The Blair program is the most accelerated available. Why would you think it’s not accelerated for your kid?!
My child takes Pre-Cal in 9th grade regardless of the school they are at.
He’s not taking functions or magnet pre-calc though, is he? (Or she). That’s the path at Blair and it’s certainly more accelerated.
Functions would not be more accelerated if those kids haven't done pre-algebra.
oops Algebra 2.
Yes it would, absolutely more accelerated. Functions includes not just magnet precalculus A/B but also magnet precalculus C/D in one year. Magnet pre-calc includes algebra 2 and magnet precalculus AB in one year. Magnet precalculus is more advanced/accelerated than honors precalculus. The non functions track is half a year slower, but however you look at it, it is more accelerated than anywhere else in MCPS.
Magnet is just a label. It doesn't sound more advanced it sounds like they are skimming over the material to compact it all. So, both sets of kids will end up in the same place in 10th - in Calculus. It sounds like a really bad idea to compress Algebra 2 into a half of year and precalculus into a half a year. It would have been far better to do it over two years starting in 8th.
So, back to the topic, how would this help with college admissions? Both are accelerated routes. Both have kids doing Calculus in 10th grade.
It’s not just a label. It signifies that it is a more in depth class. And they don’t end up in the exact same place as the same time. Functions kids start calculus Analysis AB at the beginning of 10th. The other kids start in the second half of 10th. You seem to not understand the pathway, so perhaps you should take a look: https://mbhs.edu/departments/magnet/courses_math.php
It's all the same except instead of kids skipping AIM, they are skipping Algebra 2. Maybe that's why the kids I know in it are struggling. They didn't get a good foundation.
LOL - you're mistaken it doesn't skip anything and goes much deeper into all these topics it's also known to require 3-4 hours of homework a night
You cannot reduce the material and go deeper especially when you are condensing a year class into a semester class.
No material is getting reduced. The magnet kids are invariably those who were already accelerated and enriched at home from the time they were in ES and they have great mastery over Math content beyond the curriculum. They go wide and deep in all kinds of Math subjects. The kids excelling are not the ones who are depending solely on what is being taught at school. The majority of magnet kids are banding together and going far beyond what is being taught. You know, just like the CS kids in magnet who are learning more than Python and Java and are also taking courses on Coursera, wring Apps for competitions, participating in hackathons etc.
The magnets are worth it because you have a cohort that is collaborating with you and you are learning more and at a faster pace than what the school is teaching you. The parents are also involved and coaching beyond what the curriculum covers. So these students are fine if school is accelerated. It is hard for the "other" magnet kids who did not have the academic scaffolding, network and support - at home from ES or MS. They are the ones who have to slog to catch up with the pace and compression of the magnet curriculum.
Anonymous wrote:Go to magnet, don’t go to the magnet. Nobody cares which you choose, but don’t spread misinformation. It is true that the magnets do not help with the desire to get into only Elite schools. No one truly knows what colleges want anymore, to be honest. You go to the magnet schools to learn more and feed your kids desire for knowledge. Someone said earlier, it harder, more homework, more travel to get there, the list goes on. But for many, its the first time their kid is actually challenged and excited for school. The first time they find ‘their group’ of people like minded like them. Do not let the one poster who clearly has no idea of these programs try to explain them. The math IS more challenging. The Science is more challenging. The CompSci is more challenging.
Blair sends more kids to elite schools than any other MCPS HS so I don't find your claim credible.
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No material is getting reduced. The magnet kids are invariably those who were already accelerated and enriched at home from the time they were in ES and they have great mastery over Math content beyond the curriculum. They go wide and deep in all kinds of Math subjects. The kids excelling are not the ones who are depending solely on what is being taught at school. The majority of magnet kids are banding together and going far beyond what is being taught. You know, just like the CS kids in magnet who are learning more than Python and Java and are also taking courses on Coursera, wring Apps for competitions, participating in hackathons etc.