As you read below, you’ll notice a reminder that all students taking Williamsburg courses through our schools are required to be on camera. I thought it might be helpful to start with the Why. At Williamsburg Academy / Leadership Academy of Utah, our focus is developing leadership skills. The only way we can ensure engagement in an online platform is by knowing our students are fully present and participating. Additionally, we feel that a leader must be willing to be seen and show that they are invested. After all, “to see and be seen” is one of the greatest gifts in life.

This also means being open and vulnerable with our insecurities and providing a safe space for students to be who they are. We have found that a student being off-camera is the equivalent of an empty desk in a live classroom and that it does not encourage the social interaction this age group craves. We are grateful for you discussing with your student the importance of showing up to class. 

Sincerely,

Pete Jensen

Executive Director, LAU

Action Items

Important reminder for all parents and students: This is a friendly reminder that all students must be on camera during live courses and use their given names. This is part of the “Rules of Engagement” required by our school and an agreement you make when you sign up for LAU courses. Students who will not comply may be removed from class by mentors. Thank you for your assistance with assuring your student understands this expectation.

Announcements

Upcoming state-required tests: LAU will be administering state-required tests this March and April, including the ACT, RISE, and UTAP. The full assessment schedule can be viewed here. It is suggested that students get used to taking practice timed tests. Students can access great content and practice tests through Shmoops. To set up your student’s account, you will need to use the magic word FLATTOP. Additional help for setting up a Shmoops account can be found here. If you have questions about state testing, contact Melanie Capener at 800-200-6869, extension 146. Please note: To opt-out your student from testing, a parent must complete the Utah State Parental Exclusion Form. Please print, sign, and email this form to Melanie Capener as soon as possible. 

New ACT prep class: LAU is offering the opportunity for all students to take a practice ACT and participate in an ACT boot camp. If your student is taking the ACT this year and would like to participate, please check your SIS email for more information and to sign up.

Sterling Scholar applications are now open: The 2021-22 Sterling Scholar applications are now available for eligible LAU students. Students will compete against other students throughout Utah for a significant scholarship in their area of expertise. Interested students should review the Sterling Scholar handbook to understand the process and requirements. Applications are due Friday, November 5, 2021. This application is extensive. Plan ahead to allow time to complete all parts before the submission deadline. If you have additional questions, refer to the handbook or email our school counselor Shauna Larson. 

Sign-ups are now open for LAU’s Winter Formal! All students and their friends are invited to this year’s Winter Formal on Friday, November 12, at the Talia Event Center in Clearfield, Utah, from 7:00 PM-10:00 PM MT. Desserts will be catered, and fresh fruit will be available. This event is $5 per person and must be paid in advance. Click here to sign up by Monday, November 1. No sign-ups will be permitted after the deadline. All non-LAU students must submit the LAU waiver in advance.

New Friday Activity: We are excited to announce our newest Friday activity: New Student Outreach! If your student is new to LAU, please encourage them to attend this fun activity designed especially for them. Returning students interested in helping new students learn to navigate our school and make new friends are welcome to attend. This activity is led by our student leaders on the fourth Friday of each month at 1:00 PM MT. All students are invited!

Upcoming Events

Today: New Student Outreach at 3:00 PM MT – More information is available in Homeroom

Today: Outdoor Adventure #7

October 25-29: Spirit Week

October 28: High School Thursday Night Live at 4:00 PM MT

October 29: Special Halloween Online Event at 1:00 PM MT – Student vs. Mentor Costume Contest, Scary Stories, Kahoot, and More!