Discover Janesville at Janesville Academy for International Studies

For a while I have wanted to do an episode of Discover Janesville which would showcase the charter schools in Janesville. Designed to help students who either struggle at traditional schools or need something that public schools may not necessarily offer, Janesville charter schools have grown over the years and feature a number of dedicated educators. My goal for this particular program was as always to highlight the people involved, but also to provide some information for students and parents considering whether these would be helpful to their situation.

First interview is with Carrie Kulinski, ATODA and CRES Academy coordinator. CRES Academy was started for youth who completed alcohol and/or drug treatment programs but for whom returning back to regular classes is only likely to return them to behavior patterns that got them in to trouble in the first place.

Next interview is with Dr. David Parr, mentor and on-line teacher for the Virtual Academy. Besides his involvement with the Virtual Academy, Dr. Parr also serves as the president of the Janesville Education Assocation.

Next, please take a look at this interview with Jane Thompson, lead teacher at the Janesville Academy for International Studies. International Academy's goal is to provide extra educational opportunities for students who want to learn more about international relations. Students spend part of their day at regular high school - Parker or Craig - and spend the second part of their day at the Academy. Besides being a teacher, Jane Thompson also serves as Rock county Supervisor.

Next, please take a look at the interview with Jon Simon, at-risk teacher at TATE Center. TATE is a place for students who were expelled from the Janesville School District.

Next, take a look at this interview with Mary Hathaway. Mary is at-risk teacher and Dean of Students at Rock River Charter School, the original charter school of the Janesville School District.

Finally, here is my interview with the Superintendent of the Janesville School District and current principal of TAGOS Leadership Academy, Dr. Karen Schulte.