Bob Akin, instructor of marketing at TCU, and Jennifer Fuller, strategic initiatives, at PHS, will lead the partnership committee. Both educators are enthused about the prospects for students at both institutions and the greater Fort Worth community. TCU faculty and students interested in participating in the partnership’s activities should contact Akin at r.akin@tcu.edu.
Akin said, “I see this as an opportunity to show PHS students that there is something different they can consider – another track to take – that will help them make their community better. This is a way TCU can devote part of its human resource capital to help students at both institutions think critically and analytically. If we do that, we will set them up for the future – wherever that leads them.”
Fuller said “Paschal has always had a strong partnership with TCU due to our proximity and history. The formalization of the partnership only proves to solidify and grow what has already been happening, and opens the doors even wider to reach out to each other. Enhancing student performance, reducing the achievement gap, preparing the student for life as a successful global citizen and cultivating college/career readiness will be our guiding initiatives. However, we also will work together to build the whole student by strengthening participation in student organizations, cultural projects and community service.
Current projects are in in English, science and math, including the “Bridging the Gap” program with Sarah Fuentes and Loren Spice, both assistant professors of mathematics at TCU. Andrew Brinker, science teacher at PHS, is currently participating in science research with TCU professors and students along with several science team members.
Outside the classroom, PHS’s Student Council and TCU’s Student Government Association are working together, and the TCU School for Classical & Contemporary Dance recently worked with PHS’s newly formed dance company.
The partnership committee will brainstorm new initiatives, discuss potential research opportunities and submit challenges to both institutions to connect in as many ways possible.
PHS Principal Terri Mossige said, “Both institutions have a history of academic excellence in the community and state, and we are excited to explore mutually beneficial learning opportunities for our students and faculty. Margaret Mead once said, ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.’ The TCU/Paschal High School partnership will provide multiple opportunities to achieve this.”
In the coming months TCU and PHS will plant a tree to commemorate the partnership. Mossige said, “There are many connections between both of our learning institutions, and we are excited to begin a formal collaboration for continued development and sustainability. Through this new partnership, we can help create global learners, eliminate the achievement gap and build college- and career-ready students. Together, we can change the world!”