MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew LaPlant
561-297-3022, alaplant@fau.edu or
Kristine M. McGrath
561-297-1168, kmcgrath@fau.edu

FAU High School Graduates Inaugural Class

BOCA RATON, FL (May 20, 2005) - Florida Atlantic University High School conferred diplomas today to its inaugural class. Graduates of the school have demonstrated advanced academic achievement, strong internal motivation and social maturity, and are uniquely prepared for college due to their access to dual enrollment and outstanding academic programs.

"The graduates of FAU's high school will soar in their academic endeavors and easily transition to the next step in their educational careers," said FAU President Frank T. Brogan. "What a wonderful opportunity this is to celebrate the accomplishments of these students, faculty, staff and the first year of this innovative program."

The FAU High School opened its doors in August 2004, making it the only public high school developed by a public research university in Florida to enable ninth grade students the opportunity to earn college credit through dual enrollment. Students who attend the school are able to earn more than 60 college credit hours when they graduate high school.

"A year ago, FAU High existed in concept only; today its reality is the faces of two graduating pioneers. The FAU community dreamed, collaborated, analyzed, problem-solved and refined the trail for our high school students," said Glenn Thomas, executive director of pre K-12 schools and programs. "FAU High provides an innovative, transportable model of secondary school acceleration via intensive university articulation. The model addresses national concerns about "senioritis"; students are academically challenged while tax payers get a more efficient return on their educational investment."

The FAU High School graduation highlighted the accomplishments of its two graduates, Michael Barash and Melissa Geary. "I chose FAU High because it offered the best education and there was nothing comparable," said Barash, who will pursue a degree at FAU's Honors College following graduation. "Working hard pays off well, but working smart pays off even more. The high school gave me the opportunity to reach the next level in academia."

"I am extremely proud of our seniors, Michael and Melissa, who took the risk to venture into a new program during their senior year in high school," said Dr. Marla Lee, principal of the A.D. Henderson University School. "They surpassed expectations and have demonstrated the ability to succeed in challenging environments and expand the possibilities of their own future success. They are extraordinary young adults."

In the coming academic year, FAU High School will serve 27 10 - 12 grade students. In addition to this, there are approximately 23 prospective students who will join the high school beginning Fall 2005, almost doubling the number of students currently enrolled.

For more information on the FAU High School, call Glenn Thomas at 561-297-3977 or A.D. Henderson University School at 561-297-3970.

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