Miami Connections
Miami Connections, named in the Presidential Service Award presented to Miami University, is an on-campus, half-day alternative school program that assists local ninth and tenth graders in their transition to high school. It provides a unique field placement for Miami education majors and meaningful volunteer opportunities for students in any major.
Talawanda High School students who are in Butler Tech, a county career and technical education program, take online courses guided by a veteran teacher.
The partnership with Butler Tech and Talawanda was launched in fall 2010. More than 30 Talawanda students are already involved and over 150 Miami students are providing tutoring and mentoring.
Miami Connections depends on students who want to make a difference.
Program
Miami Connections makes a difference in the lives of adolescents and in the lives of future teachers.
Some of the aspects of the program that make it special and different include:
Online Learning
Miami Connections students take online courses through Butler Tech, guided by a Master Teacher.
Daily Tutoring
Multiple tutors are assigned throughout the day. Tutors are encouraged to sign up to tutor in their academic area of interest. Some time is set aside each day for intervention, so students can stay caught up in work from other classes.
Mentoring
Miami student volunteers are matched one-on-one to Miami Connections students based on interest. Interested students should register for EDP 351, a one-credit hour class that meets once monthly. A criminal background check will be required.
On-Campus Activities
Every Wednesday time is set aside to introduce Miami Connections students to campus. Sample activities include a trip to the art museum, a challenge course and skating at the Goggin Ice Center.
How to get involved
Miami Connections has immediate needs. We appreciate feedback about any special talents or ways you can contribute to our program.
For example, we're looking for:
- Students who can suggest free, fun, educational activities, anywhere on campus
- Students who can coordinate activities
- Funds to support Miami Connections and to help pay for transportation and extras such as visits to the rec center, ice arena, Outdoor Pursuit Center, etc.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Miami Connections unique?
Miami Connections is unique because it is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) housed on a university campus. Few such school programs are housed on university campuses and those that do often charge tuition and/or do not provide transportation.
Who may tutor or mentor in Miami Connections?
Tutoring and mentoring
How do I sign up for mentoring?
The mentoring class is EDP 450G (1 credit). Contact Dr. Leah Wasburn-Moses at wasburlh@miamioh.edu for further information.
A criminal background check is required and a one-year commitment is preferred. However, there may be limited openings for
What if I miss my assigned tutoring time?
If necessary, you may make up your time another day in the week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday) at the same time.
Where can I learn more about Career and Technical Education (CTE) and/or Career-Based Intervention (CBI) programs?
Miami Connections is a CBI program, which is a type of CTE program.