Meets Growing Need for Public School Choice

Pittsburgh, PA—January 24, 2012— Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) has opened the new Pittsburgh Education Center to meet the needs of currently enrolled and prospective Pittsburgh-area students and families. Located in Oakmont, the Center houses educators who teach students online across the state and also offer onsite tutoring, direct instruction and socialization to their local grade 7-12 students. Mrs. Lynn Rodden, Senior Director of Communications and Director of the new Pittsburgh Center, recently joined AHCCS, bringing 11 years of cyber education experience, both professionally and personally as a parent of cyber-schooled children.

A free, public charter school, AHCCS is currently enrolling students in grades 7-12. Students receive free laptops, printers and Internet access. Highly-qualified, certified teachers work with mentors to meet the individual needs of each student. Unique aspects of the AHCCS curriculum include: Offering more live classes per course than any other cyber school, launching Microsoft IT Academy for students and parents, and being the first cyber school in the country to pilot the innovative Project Lead the Way math, technology, engineering and math program.

“Through safe, virtual classrooms, our focus is always on the student and the individual program that best fits him or her,” comments Achievement House CEO Dr. Tim Daniels. “There is no classroom overcrowding or threat of closures in our online environment. Parents can be assured that their children are receiving a reliable, high quality education in the safest environment on earth.”

An important goal for Mrs. Rodden is to help parents become more engaged in their children’s education. “Parent involvement is vital for a student’s success,” she said. “The Oakmont site offers various ways for families to be involved, including parent programs available virtually and onsite.” With previous experience as the Parent Liaison and Western Regional Director of another cyber school for seven years, Mrs. Rodden has extensive experience working with parents to enhance the educational experience of their children.

The Pittsburgh Center is the third Achievement House site statewide, joining the main office in Exton and the Westmoreland Center in New Florence. The Oakmont location is easily accessible from several major highways and conveniently located among popular restaurants and shops at Three Allegheny Plaza Building, 333 Allegheny Avenue, Suite 1-C, Oakmont, Pa. 15139.

Achievement House, where you child can Achieve at your House.

For more information about Achievement House Cyber Charter School or to enroll you child, visit www.achievementcharter.com or call 1-866-400-5366.

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Students can graduate with valuable Microsoft Certification

Exton, PA—January 31, 2012— Students at Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) are learning to compute with confidence. In response to the global need for people highly skilled in Microsoft technologies, AHCCS is now offering the Microsoft IT Academy to its students in grades 7-12, becoming the first cyber school in Pennsylvania to implement the program. Students enrolled in the Academy graduate from high school with one or more certifications in a variety of Microsoft technologies.

The Microsoft IT Academy provides students hands-on experience with the latest Microsoft software and hundreds of web-based E-Learning courses, books, and cutting-edge resources. The certifications are widely recognized by employers and can help students graduate with an edge in today’s competitive job market. In fact, 55 percent of hiring managers now require a Microsoft Certification.

“Achievement House is offering the program so that students gain valuable IT and business literacy skills that employers seek,” AHCCS CEO Dr. Tim Daniels said. “Whether students are career or college bound, Microsoft Certifications will build the foundation for a successful future.

The Microsoft IT Academy courses are offered as free electives; however, some programs may be cross-curricular so that subjects such as grammar are woven into Microsoft lessons. After completing a course and passing a practice test, students may take the certification test from Microsoft and AHCCS will pay the testing fee. Students receive their Microsoft Certification as they pass required exams. AHCCS also encourages parents to become involved in the Academy by taking the courses as an independent study to increase their digital literacy.

For more information or to enroll at Achievement House Cyber Charter School, visit www.achievementcharter.com or call toll free at 1-877-570-1657.

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Exton, PA – (April 2, 2012) – Dr. Tim Daniels, CEO of Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS), is pleased to announce that Mr. Heath West has been named Interim Director of the AHCCS New Florence Education Center.

An educator with over ten years of experience, Mr. West has taught elementary school and music in school districts in Virginia and Pennsylvania. He joined Achievement House at the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year as a music teacher in the New Florence Center.

Mr. West is delighted to return to western Pennsylvania because of his deep roots in the Ligonier/New Florence area and his loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mr. West believes the Center provides a unique opportunity for students who live within driving distance. “The New Florence Education Center houses many certified teachers who provide academic support by working with students one-on-one. Each day I marvel at the passion the teachers have in preparing our students for the future. The Center also offers field trips, clubs and various other student activities. For example, the Video Production Club produces announcements for the entire school. Good things are happening at the Center and we are here to stay.”

Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a tuition-free, public school that offers a blended online – onsite program at its Education Centers. While all students across the state learn virtually, they also have the opportunity to meet and work with teachers and each other at the Education Centers in New Florence, Pittsburgh, or Exton, PA. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, Achievement House offers innovative programs such as Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way (a national science, technology, engineering and math program). Although currently serving students in grades 7-12, AHCCS is expanding by adding an elementary and middle school in the coming school year; applications for the 2012-2013 school year are now being accepted for grades K-12.

Located in the heart of downtown New Florence in the old St. Mary’s Parish fellowship hall at 163 9th Street in New Florence, the Center is open school days from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Parents seeking information about Achievement House may visit the Center, call 724-371-1390, or go to the website: www.achievementcharter.com.

Achievement House, where your student can achieve at YOUR house!

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Exton, PA – (April 2, 2012) – Ms. Natalie Miller, a 12th grade Global Studies and psychology teacher at Achievement House Cyber Charter School, will study and travel in Japan for 17 days this summer as part of the Phila-Nippponica Project, a partnership between University of Pennsylvania and the US-Japan Foundation. The goal of the program is to prepare secondary English and history teachers to share knowledge and understanding of Japan with their students and colleagues.

After completing a comprehensive application and being accepted into the Phila-Nippponica Project, Ms. Miller began preparing for the trip by learning about Japanese history, culture, and language at a series of Saturday sessions taught by University of Pennsylvania faculty. During the summer she will travel to Japan to study the disasters of 2011 as well as the 1945 bombing of Hiroshima and the 1995 Kobe earthquake. In addition to visiting major cities and historical sites, various high schools, and foreign ministry offices, the teachers will stay with Japanese families and work in a tsunami relief shelter. To conclude the program, Ms. Miller will attend three full-day workshops this fall to learn how to integrate her experiences into her Global Studies course and broader school curriculum.

Ms. Miller understands the importance of sharing her new knowledge. “So often our students do not know anything about the world outside their own neighborhoods. These programs allow teachers to not only gain content knowledge about a foreign country, but allow them to bring back artifacts and memories that will personalize the experience and allow today’s students to make a personal connection.” Her Global Studies students will benefit from her experiences in Japan.

The Phila-Nippponica Project will enhance Ms. Miller’s strong interest in Asian history and cultures. In 2010 she traveled to South Korea for a two week summer fellowship program, and last summer she attended the 20th Century China Summer Institute at the University of Colorado. She will complete her Masters’ degree in History with a concentration in Asian history from Villanova this December.

Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a tuition-free, public school educating students online across the state. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, Achievement House offers innovative programs such as Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way (a national science, technology, engineering and math program). Achievement House Education Centers are located in Exton, New Florence, and Pittsburgh. Currently serving students in grades 7-12, AHCCS is expanding by adding an elementary and middle school program in the coming school year. Applications for the 2012-2013 school year are now being accepted for grades K-12.

Achievement House…where your student can Achieve at Your House.

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Exton, PA – (May 7, 2012) – Springdale resident Lynn Rodden recently joined Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) to lead the school’s new Pittsburgh Education Center in Oakmont. In addition to working as Pittsburgh Education Center Director, Rodden, age 54, was hired to be the school’s Director of Communications.

As director of the Pittsburgh Education Center, Rodden builds a team of teachers and support staff to teach virtually across the state, as well as tutor and hold activities for local students at the center.

“The Pittsburgh Education Center is the newest Achievement House site which provides students with a unique opportunity for blended online and onsite education,” Rodden said. “While the daily classes take place online, local students may opt to come to the Center in Oakmont to meet with teachers, work with each other, and attend club meetings and special programs. Parents are able to decide the best balance of academic and social needs for their child.”

In her role as Director of Communications, Rodden works to increase communication with students and families, with the community at large, and within the school itself. Rodden brings with her 11 years of cyber education experience, both professionally and personally as a parent of cyber-schooled children. Her most recent position was Western PA Regional Director and Parent Liaison of Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School for seven years. She has extensive experience working with parents to enhance the educational experience of their children.

“Although we don’t always see students face to face, it is important to build relationships with students and families so they know we are here to help them succeed,” Rodden said. “I want students to excel in the cyber school environment and let families throughout the state know that Achievement House is a high-quality public school option.”

As a cyber school director, Rodden enjoys working with families all over Pennsylvania who come from various cultural, economic, and academic backgrounds, rather than working with families from the same community who tend to share more similarities.

Rodden holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Geneva College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chatham University. Her other previous positions include Substitute School Nurse in the Allegheny Valley School District, Senior Staff Nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and Parent Coordinator at Einstein Academy Charter School. In addition to working at Achievement House, Rodden is a volunteer Sunday school teacher at Riverside Community Church’s Pittsburgh Mills location.

About Achievement House Cyber Charter School
Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a tuition-free, public school educating students online across the state. In addition to a comprehensive curriculum, Achievement House offers innovative programs such as Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way (a national science, technology, engineering and math program). Achievement House Education Centers are located in Exton, New Florence, and Pittsburgh. Currently serving students in grades 7-12, AHCCS is expanding by adding an elementary and middle school program in the coming school year. Applications for the 2012-2013 school year are now being accepted for grades K-12.

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114 Cyber Students of the Class of 2012 Graduate Statewide

Exton and Ligonier, PA – (June 14, 2012) – The Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) commencement on June 9th honored the 114 graduates of the Class of 2012.

A public online charter school, Achievement House educates students across Pennsylvania. To accommodate family travel, simultaneous graduation ceremonies took place at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Exton and Foxley Farms in Ligonier

Graduates and their families at both sites were honored to hear inspiring commencement addresses: State Representative Dan Truitt in Exton and Mrs. Rebecca Styles, President and General Manager of the Johnstown Lockheed Martin Aero parts, Inc., in Ligonier.

The Board of Trustees and CEO, Dr. Tim Daniels, congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments and their plans to continue their education, enter the workforce, enlist in the military, or pursue other interests.

The Valedictorian and Salutatorian flourished with their customized education programs.

Hattie Henderson of New Florence was Valedictorian. As an independent learner, Hattie’s flexible course schedule gave her time to complete a rigorous academic program while further developing her leadership in 4-H and interest in horses. The daughter of Randy and Carol Henderson, Hattie will attend The Pennsylvania State University for Animal Science.

Jessica Burr of Freedom, the daughter of Ron and Carla Capp, was Salutatorian. Her choice of creative elective classes suited her love of reading and writing and enabled her to begin writing a novel, which she plans to complete and submit for publication. Jessica also furthered her computer knowledge by earning valuable Certifications through Microsoft IT Academy courses.

Additional prestigious awards were presented to AHCCS students:

• Kayla Miller of Beaverdale and Nishera Potts of Chester won Outstanding Graduation Project awards
• Ashley Bacher of Oil City, Hattie Henderson of New Florence, Morgan Johnson of Orangeville, and Rhiannon Lutes of Charleroi were presented with National Honor Society Awards.

Additional Commencement participants included CEO Dr. Tim Daniels, AHCCS Board of Trustees Members Mrs. Marilou Strangarity and Mr. James R. Bowers, Mrs. Lynn Rodden (Senior Director of Communications and the Pittsburgh Education Center), Mrs. Lori Brlas (Principal), Mr. Heath West (Director of the Westmoreland Education Center), and Mrs. Sarah Minnick (Lead Teacher).

Registration for the 2012-2013 academic years is currently underway. Interested parents/students should visit www.achievementcharter.com or call 1-877-570-1657.

About Achievement House Cyber Charter School
Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a tuition-free, public online school with centers in Exton, New Florence and Pittsburgh. In addition to a comprehensive, individualized learning program, Achievement House offers innovative courses such as Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way (a national science, technology, engineering and math – STEM – program). Grade K-12 pre-registrations are currently being accepted for the 2012-2013 school year. Your child can achieve at your house! www.achievementcharter.com

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Achievement House Cyber Charter School Makes Changes, Eyes Expansion

Exton, PA – (May 30, 2012) – The situation looked bleak in 2009 for Achievement House Cyber Charter School.

Grown out of a tutoring service in 2004, the school headquarters was a crowded walk-up above a Mattress Giant in Bryn Mawr. Enrollment hit a low point at a little more than 200 students statewide, and the school seemed to be floundering after only five years.

The board decided it had two choices—either close or turn the school around from the ground up, all the while staying true to the mission of taking a smaller, individualized approach to cyber education, no matter how large the school could grow.

With plans to keep the cyber charter, which serves grades seven through 12, open, Dr. Timothy Daniels was brought in as CEO. An executive policy analyst who served with the Department of Education under Gov. Tom Ridge when the original charter legislation passed and a former director of the state’s coalition for charter schools, Daniels knew he had his work cut out for him.

“The mission of the board was to turn the model around to provide onsite teaching instead of all home-based teaching, to make our education technologically savvy, and to really help the achievement of individual students to affirm the school’s original mission, and that’s what we’ve done ever since,” Daniels said.

Though a third of the teaching staff had been laid off, some who remained still wanted to carry on with the status quo. That meant resistance to the change that was necessary to make Achievement House a success.

Daniels admits that there was a significant staff turnover after he came on board in January 2010. However, with the job market, he saw this as an opportunity to bring on top-notch teachers who really understand technology and were up to the challenges of cyber education.

“The staffing part of it has been fun. It really focused on what quality teaching is and the broader view of how education impacts students’ lives,” Daniels said. “It’s been very rewarding.”

Along with staffing changes came new ways of teaching. Now, live instruction occurs more frequently per course than at any other cyber school in the country. That means students interact face-to-face with teachers and can pick up on non-verbal cues, receive instant feedback and personalized attention.

“We are, in my estimation, the leader in live instruction,” Daniels said.

Daniels brought in a new Chief Information Officer, Don Asplen, who gutted the technology used by the school, bringing in state-of-the-art tools that are also pliable enough to be switched in or out as needs change. Technology can be the ingredient that makes or breaks a cyber education program, and Daniels says his faculty embraces technology and understands how to use it to energize students.

“They understand that technology for young people these days is very motivational, and the key to learning is motivation,” Daniels said.

With the addition of new cutting edge technology and a passionate teaching staff, one thing had to be subtracted—that walk-up headquarters.

“That mattress store is a memory that most people would rather forget,” Daniels said.

The board already decided a move was in order before Daniels was hired, and the school relocated to a high-tech building that the staff quickly outgrew as enrollment ballooned. In January, there was another relocation, this time to the Eagleview Corporate Center in Exton.

Along with other Achievement House live teaching facilities across the state, the new location boasts private digital teaching studios. The office speakers pump out pink noise so multiple conversations can be carried on at one time in the main rooms without being distracting. The staff, Daniels said, adapted nicely to the new setting.

Now, just two years after hitting that low point, Achievement House quadrupled the number of students served, hitting 847 this school year. Of that enrollment, one quarter are special education students, who Daniels said get the individual attention they need at Achievement House without the challenges a traditional public school environment may present.

“We’re selected because we can individualize,” Daniels said.

The turnaround isn’t fully realized yet, however, and while standardized test scores have risen, the graduation rate still proves a challenge, along with student turnover, though the latter is dropping.

“Our turnover rate is decreasing each year significantly, by 10 or 15 percent in the last two years,” Daniels said.

Improving the graduation rate is a challenge because some students migrate to a cyber charter school due to academic or other problems at traditional public schools. However, the staff has been working to individualize the program to meet each students’ unique learning style and adding value to the overall program to help keep students in school.

“We want to make it better every year,” Daniels said.

With the plethora of changes that already took place at Achievement House, there’s another challenge on tap—and it’s a tall order. Pending Pennsylvania Department of Education approval, the school plans to add a kindergarten through sixth-grade program for the 2012-2013 school year.

That means revamping and bringing in brand new curriculum, hiring and training staff and working to get students pre-enrolled, all while crossing fingers that PDE will get the approval done in time. Planning and organizing for this significant expansion have been underway since January. Right now, Daniels said a decision is expected in late June.

“Even with a late decision, we are prepared to open in September,” Daniels said.

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Cyber School Provides Positive Learning Experience for Mother and Daughter

York, PA— (January 16, 2013) — Alyssa Hoke’s Monday evenings are steeped in tradition. Each week, the 15-year-old from York joins her mother, Deb Wilt, and grandmother, Susan Heldibridle, for practice with the York Symphony Chorus. The family’s participation in the chorus goes back more than two decades. These days, the chorus provides a mix of artistic freedom and family therapy for the musical trio, specifically Hoke and Wilt.

Two years ago, an unexpected personal issue led Hoke to enroll in Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS).

“We needed an alternative at the time, but it ended up being something really positive,” Wilt explained.

“When I started at Achievement House, I really liked it and I still do,” Hoke said. “It’s easy to interact with other kids and my classes are really interesting.

Wilt became Hoke’s full-time home coordinator, overseeing her lessons and making sure her assignments were complete. It was a new role and an adjustment for mother and daughter.

“I became much more involved in her school work. Having mom around that much can be tough, for both of us!” Wilt laughed.

When the proctor/student role starts to hit a sour note, Hoke and Wilt say they are always able to get back in tune through the YSC.

“Music has been therapeutic. When we may have a tough school day, music helps me relax,” Wilt said.

Hoke agreed.

“My mom and I are always able to come together through singing,” she said.

Even with the adjustments in their relationship, the mother-daughter duo openly sings the praises of Achievement House. Hoke’s grades have improved and she thrives in the accelerated classes. When she first enrolled as a seventh grader, she was planning to return to her traditional public school within a year.

Now, Hoke is half way through her ninth-grade courses and looking forward to her sophomore year at AHCCS.

Cyber school has been a learning experience for Wilt as well, who encourages other parents to educate themselves.

“Adults do need to take more of a role when it comes to cyber schooling,” Wilt said. “But when it’s the right fit for your child and you see the results, it’s worth it.”

About Achievement House Cyber Charter School
Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) is a tuition-free, public PA cyber school serving grades 7-12 and chartered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students participate in a custom-designed, web-based platform and can accomplish their school work from home or anywhere an Internet connection is available. AHCCS meets the required charter school public education certifications and highly qualified teacher status. Additionally, the courses offered meet the requirements of Pennsylvania Academic Standards and, upon completion of the requirements, each AHCCS graduate receives a state-issued diploma.

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Achievement House Cyber Charter School Opens New Education Center in Bethlehem

Bethlehem, PA – (Jan. 10, 2013) –Students seeking a new choice in education will soon have the best of both worlds in the Lehigh Valley. Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) has announced the opening of the Lehigh Valley Education Center. The welcoming facility at 826 E. 4th Street in Bethlehem is the first of its kind in the Lehigh Valley and offers tuition-free, personalized and on-the-spot academic support for students enrolled in AHCCS cyber classes.

“Parents tell us that they love the concept of online learning, but are not sure how to best support their children to make sure they stay on track,” said Carlos Lopez, Educational Consultant for the Center. “The Lehigh Valley Education Center is in place to make sure AHCCS students in the Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton areas have a successful cyber school experience and ultimately graduate.”

The Lehigh Valley Learning Center provides a central location for Achievement House students to blend their online education experience with traditional teaching methods. Students can visit the Center to attend live virtual classes and complete online assignments. The bi-lingual staff also provides an added level of in-person and individualized support for students in need of English Language Learning (ELL), special education, mentorship, tutoring and Title I services. Additionally, the Education Center gives Achievement House students opportunities to participate in locally-based activities, including clubs, community service projects and internships.

“The Education Center is unique because it helps ensure students are staying on task and getting the support they need to earn their diploma,” Lopez explained. “We have also made sure the Education Center is culturally centered and competent to both reflect and help the growing ELL population of the school districts in the Lehigh Valley.”

The Lehigh Valley Education Center will hold an Open House on Monday, Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. Current and prospective AHCCS students and families of students in grades 7-12 are encouraged to attend as faculty and staff will be on hand to answer questions and offer tours of the facility. The media is also welcome to attend or preview this event. Carlos Lopez and local AHCCS families are available for interviews upon request.

About Achievement House Cyber Charter School
Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) is a tuition-free, public online school chartered by the state of Pennsylvania to serve students in grades 7-12. Students receive computers, printers, headsets, learning materials and Internet reimbursement. www.achievementcharter.com

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Exton, PA – (February 27, 2013) – Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) will launch its new website on Friday, March 1, 2013. The website, according to its creators, utilizes the latest technologies, provides a much better user experience, and features updated content. Also included are a variety of videos that help to explain exactly how AHCCS students are finding success in a cyber-environment.

To celebrate the occasion, visitors to the new website will have an opportunity to locate the school’s mascot, a USBee, and be entered into a drawing to win a Nook. Details for this contest will be shared as the reveal date draws nearer.

“While the old website served us well over the years and was state-of-the-art for its time,” Jennifer Vargas the school’s webmaster said, “the time had definitely come to create a site equipped to showcase and reflect all of the new and innovative things happening at Achievement House!”

For more information about Achievement House Cyber Charter School or to enroll you child, visit www.achievementcharter.com or call 1-877-570-1657

Achievement House, where your child can Achieve at YOUR House!

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Achievement House Cyber Charter School Opens New Resource Center in Reading

Reading, PA – (March 26, 2013) – Students in grades 7-12 seeking a unique personalized, tuition-free public education will soon have a new option in Reading. Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) is opening its Reading Resource Center at 501 Washington Street on Monday, April 8, 2013.

All interested parents and students are invited to attend an Open House on either Tuesday, April 2 at 6 p.m. or Thursday, April 4 at 6 p.m. at the Resource Center. AHCCS faculty and staff will be on hand to explain how the Center will offer on-the-spot academic support for the students enrolled in the AHCCS cyber classes and to answer questions and offer tours of the facility.

“Parents tell us they love the concept of online learning, but are not sure how to best support their children to make sure they stay on track,” said Carlos Lopez, Education Consultant for the Center. “The Reading Resource Center is a safe, welcoming place where AHCCS students can have a successful cyber school experience and ultimately graduate.”

The Reading Resource Center provides a central location for Achievement House students to blend their online education experience with traditional teaching methods. Students may visit the Center to attend their live virtual classes and complete online assignments. The bi-lingual, multicultural staff also provides an added level of one-on-one, individualized support for students in need of English Language Learning (ELL), special education, tutoring, and Title 1 services. The Center also provides opportunities for Achievement House students to participate in local activities, including clubs, community service projects, and apprenticeships.

“The Resource Center is unique because it helps ensure students are staying on task and getting the support they need to earn their diplomas,” Lopez explained. “We have also made sure the Resource Center is culturally centered and competent to both reflect and help the growing ELL population of the Reading area.”

The media is welcome to attend or preview the Open House. Carlos Lopez and local AHCCS families are available for interviews upon request.

About Achievement House Cyber Charter School
Achievement House Cyber Charter School is an independent, tuition-free, public online school chartered by the state of Pennsylvania to serve students in grades 7-12. Students receive computers, printers, headsets, learning materials and Internet reimbursement.

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Position:  Chief Information and Technical Officer

Location:  Exton

Mr. Asplen is the Chief Information and Technical Officer (CIO) at Achievement House.  His goals for the school include using technology to prepare students for the work place; insisting on cost effective solutions that ensure we are good stewards of taxpayers’ dollars; employing scalable administrative and educational platforms that allow the school to easily expand; and deploying technologies that enable learning.

Mr. Asplen’s background includes managing the Advanced Systems Group Global Division for Dell Computers; holding the position of CIO and Controller for New Dawn Assisted Living; acting as the CIO for a local mortgage company; and holding the position of Executive Director of the Lanchester Christian School.

This combination of technology, finance and business brings a well-rounded and forward-looking perspective to the IT Department and the school.

484-615-6227

dasplen@achievementcharter.com

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Department:  Social Studies

Location:  Pittsburgh

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Department:  Special Subjects, Career Studies

Location:  Exton

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Philadelphia, PA – (May 16, 2013) – Philadelphia parents have a new public education choice for their grade 7-12 students. OMART Community Cyber Center and its partner, Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS), are creating a safe, welcoming place where AHCCS students will have the opportunity to reach their academic potential, participate in enrichment activities, and prepare for success in a technology-driven world. The Center, located at 836 North 3rd Street, Philadelphia 19123, will open for the 2013-14 school year.

Information Sessions are scheduled at the OMART Center: May 30 at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and June 1 at 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a free, public online school for students in grades 7-12. Each student receives a computer, all-in-one printer, accessories and learning materials – all at no cost. Innovative technology enables Achievement House teachers to provide a comprehensive, student-centered curriculum through engaging, live virtual classes and interactive online assignments. The customized curriculum meets the needs of students at all levels. Leading-edge programs include Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way – two programs that enable students to earn valuable computer technology certifications and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) knowledge.

The OMART Community Cyber Center will provide students with a structured, safe environment. AHCCS students will attend their online classes, complete online coursework, and also receive ongoing support and supervision from OMART Center staff. Students will also have significant opportunities to participate in enriching activities, such as Entrepreneurship and Leadership Workshops, community service projects, PA Free Enterprise Week, and educational travel. Additional onsite options will include fitness classes, arts and crafts, and chess.

Obioma Martin, Director of the OMART Community Cyber Center, stated: “The Center will not only provide students a cutting-edge cyber education but also give students the tools to be successful leaders in a global marketplace.’

Dr. Tim Daniels, Achievement House CEO, agrees: “We are pleased to partner with OMART Community Cyber Center to provide students the opportunity to build a firm education foundation and acquire skills with real-world applications as they prepare for their lives as future leaders and responsible adults.”

Interested parents may contact Obioma Martin or Rudy Martin at the OMART Community Cyber Center at 215-279-7321 or visit the AHCCS website at www.achievementcharter.com.

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Position:  CEO

Location:  Exton

During the decade prior to becoming the CEO of AHCCS, Dr. Daniels was the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools (PCPCS).  During that time, Pennsylvania charter school enrollment grew from less than 30,000 students to more than 64,000 students with more than 21,000 students on waiting lists.  Starting with 21 member charter schools, Dr. Daniels grew PCCS to 130 member charter schools by the end of his tenure.  He was awarded the Coalition’s “Trail Blazer” award at the Spring 2003 annual Coalition Conference for his leadership and support of Pennsylvania charter schools since 1996.

Starting in 1995 and continuing to 2000, Dr. Daniels was the Director of the Office of Educational Initiatives in the Pennsylvania Department of Education.  Programs administered by his office were Charter Public Schools, School Performance Funding and School District Performance Measures.  Additionally, Dr. Daniels represented the Secretary of Education at official events including school dedications, government policy committees and professional educational association meetings.  An experienced field administrator, Dr. Daniels has been a junior high teacher, a junior high assistant principal, a middle school principal, a school district business manager, an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, and a superintendent of schools.

Dr. Daniels’ degrees include a Bachelor’s Degree from Bucknell University, a Master’s in Teaching from Harvard, and Doctorate of Education from the University of Pennslvania, where he was a Ford Fellow for 2 years.

484-615-6226

tdaniels@achievementcharter.com

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John Skwarecki to attend “Teaching American History and the Medal of Honor Legacy”

Exton, PA – (May 16, 2013) – Mr. John Skwarecki, a social studies teacher at Achievement House Cyber Charter School headquartered in Exton, will devote a week this summer to a dynamic education program that will enrich his classes. Mr. Skwarecki was recently honored with a full scholarship from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge to attend “Teaching American History and the Medal of Honor Legacy” at their Valley Forge campus.

Mr. Skwarecki will join teachers from across the country to study modern international conflicts including WW II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan and interact with Medal of Honor recipients who will share their personal wartime stories of valor and heroism. The teachers will explore the character traits exemplified by Medal of Honor winners – courage, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, patriotism, and citizenship – and develop classroom curricula that connect students to America’s past. Visits to Philadelphia-area historic sites will deepen their understanding of the founding American values and documents. The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge was founded in 1949 to educate and prepare students to be involved, responsible citizens.

Mr. Skwarecki commented: “This is an amazing opportunity, and I am extremely grateful to everyone involved. This program affords the chance to improve our students’ understanding of guiding U.S. principles by engaging them with the experiences and wisdom of those individuals who have earned the nation’s highest military honor. I look forward to participating in the program, and to passing on the lessons learned there to our students.”

Before joining Achievement House in December 2012, Mr. Skwarecki taught at Colonial Forge High School in Virginia. He holds a BA in History from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a MA in Teaching (Secondary Social Studies) from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Achievement House Western Graduation
Keynote Speaker: Mr. Robert Fayfich, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Coalition
of Public Charter School
Greensburg, PA
June 15, 2013

Good morning students, facility, administration, parents, and families of Achievement House Cyber Charter School. It is my pleasure and sincere honor to be with you this morning.

But I must start my remarks with an apology to everyone, other than the 27 young men and women who are graduating today. They are the reason why all the rest of us are here, and my sole purpose today is to have a conversation with them. So, if all of the rest of you will please excuse us.

Ladies and gentlemen: In 1965 I sat where you are sitting today. That was 48 years ago. And, not only were you not yet born, neither were most of your parents. That officially makes me an old fart, and I’m OK with that.

My graduating class was a little bigger – 954 to be exact – but we had the same hopes, dreams, fears, and uncertainties as you do today.

The only reason I am here this morning is to share some of my perceptions, borne from my experience during the last 48 years, that may help you get through the next 48 years.

Let’s start our conversation with two assumptions:

Why is self-understanding and alignment so important?

St. Augustine, who was even older me, stated this truth much more poetically long ago: “Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure. Where your treasure is, there is your heart. Where your heart is, there is your happiness.”

In more practical and contemporary terms, the key to a happy and fulfilling life is finding the overlap among what you love to do, what you’re good at doing, and what someone will pay you to do.

Achieving that is a lifetime of work, but I think three things are essential:

Listening to yourself is introspective.

In quiet times, ask yourself a few simple, but important, questions:

Honest answers to each of these questions provide you with insight as to who you truly are and are the beginning of living your life from the inside out, rather than from the outside in.

But whomever you think you are, based solely on introspection, is incomplete at best and grossly inaccurate at worst. You are human and, as such, completely blind to some of your greatest weaknesses and your most valuable assets.

You must add to your perception of yourself the perceptions of trusted teachers, friends, and family members to get a more true and holistic understanding of who you really are – with the knowledge that who you are changes over time and introspection and honest feedback are a constant.

Once you feel comfortable with an understanding of who you are, at this point in time, you need to decide what you want to do with this unique and talented person. And that means looking closely at your gifts, obstacles, advantages, and limitations.

Gifts are the skills and abilities that were given to you at birth.

Obstacles are situations or roadblocks that may stand in the way of achieving your goal.

Advantages are the opportunities that you create or are presented to you throughout your lifetime.

Limitations are the practical realities that restrict what you can be.

Gifts differ from advantages in that you have the power to only enhance gifts but create advantages.

Obstacles differ from limitations in that you can overcome obstacles but not limitations. But there is a danger in viewing situations as limitations when they are really only obstacles. Being female is less and less of an obstacle to being anything you want to be. But standing 5’2” and wanting to play center for the Miami Heat is a real limitation. Truly understand the difference and you’ll find that many things you initially think of as limitations are merely obstacles.

Finally, git r done.

George Bernard Shaw once said: “The people who get on in this world are those who get up and look for the circumstances they want and, if they can’t find them, they make them.”

And research tells us that the people who have the most success in achieving their purpose in life share four characteristics:

Ladies and gentlemen, your life is ahead of you and you have control over what it will be. It won’t be easy. But the trip will be worth it.

Let me end with a portion of a life philosophy titled Desiderata which has been a guide and comfort for me since I first discovered it in college. The word “desiderata” is Latin for something that is needed or wanted and is the origin of the English word “desire.”

Although the author of this statement is in dispute, its wisdom is not. It ends with these words.

“Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be and, whatever your labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.”

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Dr. Timothy Daniels, Ed.D., has been recognized for his many years of service and his devotion to improving the Commonwealth’s standard of education and the lives of Pennsylvania youth.

The CEO of Achievement House Cyber Charter School, Dr. Daniels has recently received awards from the PA Legislative Black Caucus, the City of Philadelphia, a South Philadelphia church, and Congressmen Robert Brady.

Dr. Daniels received the Award of Excellence for Leadership in Supervision and Curriculum Development as well as the Trailblazer Award and National Flag of Excellence from the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. He was commended by Caucus Chairwoman and state Representative Vanessa Lowery Brown for his “wisdom, experience and genuine concern for students and their education.”

Mayor Michael Nutter of Philadelphia awarded Dr. Daniels a citation for his “advocacy on behalf of the youth of our communities and for his support of new technology in furthering educational programs.” Mayor Nutter also referred to the recognition Dr. Daniels received at the New Temple Baptist Church of South Philadelphia for his “contributions, achievements, and support provided to the Philadelphia community.”

Lastly, U.S. Congressman Robert Brady presented Dr. Daniels with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for his outstanding and invaluable service to the community.

These awards honor Dr. Daniels’ rich experience in education that spans from teaching in the classroom to serving in the state Department of Education. His lifelong accomplishments have focused on meeting the educational needs of all students. Under Dr. Daniels’ leadership, Achievement House Cyber Charter School, a non-profit, self-managed, and state-authorized cyber charter school has become a leading innovator in integrating an engaging online learning program with cutting-edge technology to enable students to succeed in a technology-driven world. Most recently, Dr. Daniels has focused on opening Resource Centers across the state where students are welcome to attend their live virtual classes and complete assignments in a safe, supportive environment.

Dr. Daniels expressed gratitude for these awards: “It is an honor to serve the families and students of Pennsylvania and an equal honor to be recognized for my efforts. Children are the greatest assets for their families and the whole community. Preparing students to succeed in life continues to be a challenging and worthy goal. Thank you to Congressman Brady, the PA Legislative Black Caucus, Mayor Nutter, and the New Temple Baptist Church of South Philadelphia.”

Information about Achievement House is available at www.achievementcharter.com or at 1-877-570-1657 and also on Facebook and Twitter.

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Hazleton parents seeking a personalized, tuition-free public education for their grade 7-12 students have a new public education choice. Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS) is opening a Resource Center for the 2013-14 school year at the Hazleton One Community Center located at 225 East 4th Street in Hazleton 18201. Open Houses are scheduled for August 21, from 5 – 8 p.m., and August 22, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Center. For immediate information, please contact Mr. Carlos Lopez at 484-213-9591.

Achievement House Cyber Charter School is a free, public online school for students in grades 7-12. Each student receives a computer, printer, learning materials, and Internet reimbursement – all at no cost. Innovative technology enables Achievement House teachers to provide a student-centered curriculum through engaging live, virtual classes and interactive online assignments. Cutting-edge programs include Microsoft IT Academy and Project Lead the Way – two programs that enable students to earn valuable computer technology certifications and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) knowledge.

While many AHCCS students learn in their own homes, the AHCCS Resource Center will be a safe, structured place where students may go to attend their online classes, complete online coursework, and also receive ongoing support and supervision from AHCCS staff. Students may also work with teachers and other students, participate in AHCCS online clubs, and attend statewide field trips.

Dr. Tim Daniels, CEO of AHCCS, stated: “Achievement House is pleased to be part of the innovative Hazleton One Community Center that is creating opportunities for economically-challenged children to participate in a variety of educational, cultural and athletic activities. Achievement House will enhance the work of the Hazleton One Community Center by providing an outstanding, free public education that prepares students to succeed in a technology-driven world.”

Interested parents or students may learn more at www.achievementcharter.com or at Facebook and Twitter.

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