Academic Summer Camps

Avoid summer learning loss with Sylvan’s Summer Camps. Our camps will boost confidence and enhance academic skills to set your child up for success - in and out of the classroom.  Make Sylvan a small part of your summer schedule to build confidence for the fall!

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• Age and grade-appropriate
• Focused on targeted skill and subject areas
• Led by caring, qualified teachers that use our Sylvan motivational system to help build confidence
• Designed with engaging activities and games to make learning fun
• Made to fit your summer schedule  and other school breaks 

Sylvan Learning takes Teacher Appreciation to the next level with the “Andrés Bello” Award

 In conjunction with National Teacher Appreciation Week on May 7-12, 2012 Sylvan Learning is pleased to further its commitment with the 2^nd annual “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award.  The “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award honors Hispanic-American teachers for their commitment to improving education and their significant contributions towards enhancing students’ knowledge of Latin America and Spain.

For the second consecutive year Sylvan Learning invites all the schools in Broward and Miami-Dade County to nominate an excellent Hispanic-American educator. The award is presented annually to Pre-K to College teachers in five categories: Pre-School, Elementary School, Middle School, High School and College, and consists of a certificate of recognition, and a gift basket award.

Applicants for the “Andrés Bello” Appreciation Teacher Award do not have to be nominated to be considered. We are seeking to encourage the educators themselves to apply for the award, which is open to any Hispanic-American certified teacher (active or retired) with at least 3 years’ teaching experience in a public or non-public school or college in Broward County and/or Miami-Dade County, Florida, in any of the five award categories: Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School and College.

The award is named in honor of Andrés Bello for his commitment to education. The Castilian Grammar Intended for the use by Americans (Americans referring to Castilian- or Spanish-speaking inhabitants of the Americas, not just the United States), finished in 1847, was the first Spanish-American Grammar, with many original contributions, a product of long years of study. Republished over the years with many revisions, the most significant of which are by Rufino Jose Cuervo, this is still a valuable reference work. Bello was accepted in the Spanish Royal Academy of Language as Correspondent Member in 1861.

The “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award information is available online at https://www.facebook.com/AndresBelloTeacherAppreciationAward

“Being a part of the “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award celebration gives all of us at Sylvan Learning an enormous sense of pride. We look forward to another successful award this year and are honored to present for the second consecutive year the “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award in our communities at Broward County and Miami-Dade County in Florida.” said Elena Dolinski de Montilla, Executive Director for Sylvan Learning Weston.

The “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award

College Competition Means New Stress for Today’s Teens

February 6-10, 2012, is National Guidance Counselors Week. Celebrate by thanking your child’s high school guidance counselor for helping to prepare your child for the rigors of college success.

The pressure is on. To compete in today’s global economy, which includes international students attending North American colleges in record numbers, U.S. teenagers must obtain collegiate degrees now more than ever. The U.S. Department of Education released its Projections of Education Statistics to 2020; the report shows a significant increase in the number of students aged 25 and older expected to enroll in college by 2020. While enrollment among traditional-aged students is expected to increase by 9 percent between 2009 and 2020, enrollment among students 25-34 may see a 21 percent increase and students 35 and older a 16 percent increase.

What does this mean for students with college aspirations? Acing the college entrance exam is critical. Most students applying to competitive colleges now take the SAT*/ACT® more than once, and as early as sophomore year.

Our growing global economy has made it necessary for more students to attend college in order to obtain good paying jobs. New tools, such as the common application, encourage students to apply to more schools - which increases the competition. Thus, making it more difficult for students to gain acceptance into the top institutions and colleges that were once seen as “safeties.”

More students and parents today are learning the secret that top colleges have known for years - systematically preparing for the SAT*/ACT® gives students more confidence and more confidence can lead to higher SAT*/ACT® scores.

New college admissions rules now allow students to score their best by taking the SAT*/ACT® as many times as they like, but educators suggest taking the tests no more than two or three times. Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of in-center and live, online tutoring, offers the following advice to ensure students properly prepare for their college entrance exams.


To better assist parents in helping their children develop the skills, habits and attitudes needed for academic success, Sylvan Learning is offering free, local Students, Parent and Adult Learners workshops! These FREE, 90-minute workshops are part of the new Sylvan Seminar Series created to help parents become familiar with the latest educational trends in a fun and interactive setting. And, your friends are welcome too!

On February 23rd, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.,the College Test Prep & Financial Aid Programs FREE Seminar will be held in partnership with Ana G. Méndez University System in the SUAGM campus located at 3520 Enterprise Way, Miramar, FL 33025.

Join us and learn how parents and students can work together to navigate the college preparation process while learning tips to ensure your college planning is stress-free.

Visit www.SylvanWeston.com or call us (954) 349-1717 for more information!

Is Your Child Ready for Algebra?

Known as a "gateway course," algebra is the foundation for higher-level high school math and science classes and thus a critical stepping stone to student's success. Make sure your child is ready by having them take a FREE Algebra Readiness Check-Up!

Weak algebra skills can lead to:

• Lower ACT/SAT^® scores
• Limited access to colleges and universities
• Restricted careers

This 21-question Algebra Readiness Check-Up will help your student determine if they are ready for Algebra. Their personalized Algebra Fitness Breakdown will highlight their strengths, areas that require focus, and provide online resources to help them get in tip-top shape for algebra!

Register today: www.Fit4Algebra.org

Dramático crecimiento de estudiantes hispanos que presentan el examen de admisión a la Universidad!

Sylvan Learning Center @ Weston

Number of Hispanic College Entrance Exam Takers Show Improvement!

Sylvan Learning Center @ Weston

FACTS.org - Go Higher Florida, Education Pays!

FACTS.org – ¡Adelante Florida, Estudiar si cuenta!

Para mayor información por favor envia un email a Info@SylvanWeston.com 

How to Make the Most, Academically, of Your Child’s Summer Time!

Within 24 to 48 hours after learning new concepts, students often begin to forget information unless it is reinforced or applied immediately. That’s why, during school breaks, even the best students forget lessons they have learned during the school year.

While a break from school is great for recharging your children’s batteries, if students aren’t using the skills they acquired in the classroom, they could find themselves lagging behind once the school bell rings again. Sylvan Learning Weston center offers great ways to help your child continue to learn, in a fun way, when away from the classroom.

Writing - To help writing skills, encourage your child to start a diary or write letters to a grandparent or friend. If you are traveling on a vacation, ask your child to keep a travel journal recording where you stayed and what you did. At the end of every day, talk through the activities with your child and help him or her with a journal. It not only improves writing skills, but also creates great family memories.

Mathematics - Helping mom or dad with grocery shopping develops opportunities to use math skills, such as making change, weighing fruits and vegetables, etc. Providing assistance with cooking can also familiarize children with weights and measures, organization and planning and following a recipe. Perhaps you and your children could make a special dessert for the whole family. Help them pick a recipe, create an ingredients list and go shopping together.

Reading - You can’t start too early. You can’t read too much. Reading to young children nurtures an interest in language, words and communication. For older kids, reading together can be fun and interesting. Children also learn by example. If parents are setting time aside to read, it reinforces the fun and enjoyment of reading. Local libraries offer infinite resources for children. Librarians can recommend books appropriate for your child’s reading level and interests, and many libraries offer free children’s programs and clubs.

Research –There are an abundance of sites that provide reading lists for children. At www.bookadventure.com, children (K-8) create personalized books lists from more than 7,000 recommended titles, take quizzes on the books they’ve read at school or at home, and earn prizes for their reading comprehension. The program is designed to motivate students to read more often, for longer periods of time and with greater understanding.

Analysis and Logic - Many family games and puzzles are not only fun, but help children to develop and reinforce skills. A simple card game can involve mathematics, analysis and logical thinking. Be sure to select games appropriate for your child's age level.

Academic Camps - There are many enrichment activities available for children when school is out-of-session. Sylvan Learning Weston offers engaging programs that keep the interest and fun in learning alive through the summer and into the school year.

Avoid Report Card Anxiety - Tips for Parents

Parents will soon be receiving their children's report cards. The following tips, brought to you by the education professionals at Sylvan Learning Weston, are designed to help parents provide their children with positive and constructive responses during what is often a challenging time:

• Communicate with your child throughout the six or nine-week report period. Don't wait until the report cards are issued - it's too late then.
• Clearly communicate your expectations with your child. Also, determine if your expectations are realistic considering the student's ability level.
• Establish academic goals together with your child. These should be both short and long range and must be appropriate to the age of the child.
• Meet with your child's teachers. Explore what resources the school offers students such as tutors, homework centers, pre-school day classes or online subject support.
• Discuss problem areas with your child's teacher. Any skill deficiencies that are causing performance problems must be correctly identified and addressed.
• Establish a study plan with your child. He/she needs to develop regular study habits and to spend an adequate amount of time daily on homework and studying for tests.
• Recognize and praise your child's successes. For example, with an elementary school age child, you might talk about how pleased you are about better behavior in class.
• Get help immediately if you see a problem. Don't fall prey to your child's promise to do better. He may not be able to correct certain issues without help from the adults in his life.
• Stay in touch with your child's school counselor. The link between home and school is vital. The counselor can request periodic progress reports between grading periods and set up conferences with teachers, parents and students when necessary.
• Think about what motivates your child. Positive motivators include offering rewards, such as money, video games, CD's, a driver's license or driving privileges, for improved grades. Consequences include grounding your child, restricting phone or internet time and taking away other privileges such as use of the family car.
• Reward your child for a good report card. Rather than giving money, spend extra time with your child, go for a walk together, take a family excursion or go to a favorite restaurant.
• Be sure to keep report cards in perspective. Remember that this is just one measure at one particular time of how your child is doing.

Follow these simple STUDY rules:

S - Stay on top of your child's study schedule. Be aware of assignments and whether your student is using time effectively to tackle homework.

T - Team with your child, the teacher and counselor. Work together to develop a meaningful contract that clearly outlines expectations and sets desired goals.

U - Use a daily assignment planner and project calendar.

D - Define your child's deficiencies and identify the skills that are needed to address the performance problems.

Y - You are your child's greatest advocate. Be a partner to help your student achieve his/her highest academic potential.

Schedule your child's Sylvan Skills Assessment® now! (954) 349-1717

“Andrés Bello Award” Honors Broward’s Superintendent James F. Notter.

With Sylvan Learning Center as Co-Presenter, the occasion is considered as one of the featured educational activities of the Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce of the United States.

Andrés Bello Award 2011

Sylvan Learning takes Teacher Appreciation to the next level!

Andres Bello Teacher Appreciation Award 2011

Sylvan Learning exalta su aprecio a los maestros!

Andres Bello Teacher Appreciation Award 2011

National Teacher Appreciation Week 2011

In conjunction with National Teacher Appreciation Week on May 2-6, Sylvan Learning is pleased to further its commitment to the Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce of the United States (VACC) with their 1st annual “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award. Sylvan Learning of Weston is supporting VACC with its “Andrés Bello” Teacher Appreciation Award which honors Venezuelan-American teachers for their commitment to improving the education and their significant contribution to enhancing students’ knowledge of Venezuela.

Andres Bello Teacher Appreciation Award 2011(199 KB)

Importance of reforming our education system for the Latinos and for America to win the future.

Posted by Rosalinda Barrera on March 11, 2011 at 04:24 PM EDT

The President has made it clear that if America is to win the future, we have to out-educate our global competitors so that we can lead the global economy in the 21st century. The Hispanic community is critical to that vision, and to meeting the President's goal that America once again lead the world in college graduates. A key part of success in the Hispanic community is helping students who are learning English to reach their full potential. We recently held a National Conversation on English Learner Education with that in mind.

When U.S. Representative Judy Chu started talking about her mother’s challenges in moving from China to the U.S. without speaking English, we knew that our Los Angeles forum on English-learner education was going to be real and personal.

On March 7-8, this National Conversation on English Learner Education brought together nearly 160 local educators, community members and parents from California and 10 other states with me and other federal officials to voice diverse perspectives about the responsibility we all share in investing in the education of English learners.

Addressing the group by video, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncansaid nearly 4.7 million English Learners currently attend K-12 schools “in areas of the country with less experience serving these students.”

“Your work and collaboration is important and essential to reforms in the way we educate English Learner students,” he said.

Diverse policy implications revolving around many topics were identified and examined during the course of the two-day meeting. Topics included:

Alignment of English language proficiency standards and assessments with Common Core standards
Parent engagement research
Dual language immersion programs
Long-term English Learners
Integration of technology with English Learners and Online communities of practice
English Learners with special needs
Pre-service and in-service teacher preparation focused on English Learner education, among other matters.
ED’s Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) sponsored this event in collaboration with ED’s Offices of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) and Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), The White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics and The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. While 80 percent of U.S. schools’ English learners are Hispanic, OELA is committed to supporting all K-12 students whose first language is other than English.

How did the conference turn out? According to the participants, it was time well spent. Maria Quezada, CEO of the California Association for Bilingual Education, was surprised by the format.

“My thought was that we were only going to present testimony. But this conference goes far beyond that, giving us a chance to talk passionately about those things we care about, and to share information,” she said.

Daphne Kwock, chair of the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders said, “I was especially impressed with the diversity in the participants from so many states.”

Judy Elliott, Ph.D., chief academic officer for the Los Angeles Unified School District, praised the conference’s participant-driven structure.

“People I’ve talked with here are very appreciative of the rich dialogue, and are walking away with new ideas,” she said.

Detailed feedback for improving English Learners’ education generated by this conference will be posted at http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/meetings/2011elconversation/, alongside feedback from a simultaneous OELA conversation that took place in Seattle, and two earlier forums in Dallas and Chicago. Registration information for April 11-12 events in New York City and Charlotte, North Carolina is also at that site.

Rosalinda B. Barrera is the assistant deputy secretary and director of the Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA).

Importancia de reforma de la educación para los Hispanos y para que Estados Unidos gane el futuro.

Posted by Rosalinda Barrera on March 11, 2011 at 04:24 PM EDT


El Presidente dejó en claro que si Estados Unidos ha de tener éxito en el futuro, debemos educar más que nuestros competidores mundiales para que podamos ser líderes de la economía internacional en el siglo XXI. La comunidad hispana es crucial para lograr esta visión y alcanzar el objetivo del Presidente de que Estados Unidos vuelva a ser líder del mundo en términos de egresados universitarios. Un aspecto clave del éxito de la comunidad hispana es ayudar a los estudiantes a aprender inglés para que alcancen su pleno potencial. Con eso en mente, recientemente tuvimos una Conversación Nacional sobre la Enseñanza de Inglés.

Cuando la congresista federal Judy Chu comenzó a hablar sobre los desafíos que enfrentó su madre al mudarse de China a Estados Unidos sin hablar inglés, supimos que nuestro foro de Los Ángeles sobre la enseñanza de inglés iba a ser real y personal.

El 7 y 8 de marzo, esta Conversación Nacional sobre la Enseñanza de Alumnos de Inglés (National Conversation on English Learner Education) congregó a casi 160 educadores locales, miembros de la comunidad y padres de California y otros 10 estados con funcionarios del gobierno federal, entre los que me encontraba yo, para expresar perspectivas diversas sobre la responsabilidad que tenemos todos de invertir en la educación de quienes están aprendiendo inglés.

Al dirigirse a este grupo por video, el secretario de Educación de Estados Unidos Arne Duncan dijo que casi 4.7 millones de estudiantes de kindergarten al 12º grado están aprendiendo inglés “en regiones del país con menos experiencia con servicios a estos estudiantes”.

“Su trabajo y colaboración son importantes y esenciales para reformar la manera en que les enseñamos a los alumnos de inglés”, afirmó.

En el transcurso de la reunión de dos días se identificaron y examinaron las diversas implicancias para decisiones directivas de muchos temas. Entre aquellos tratados:

Correlación de estándares de dominio de inglés con evaluaciones de estándares de Common Core
Investigación sobre la participación de los padres
Programas de inmersión en dos idiomas
Alumnos de inglés de largo plazo
Integración de tecnología con estudiantes de inglés y comunidades para practicar en Internet
Alumnos de inglés con necesidades especiales
Capacitación previa de maestros y actualización durante su servicio, centrada en la enseñanza de inglés, entre otros asuntos.
La Oficina de Adquisición del Idioma Inglés (Office of English Language Acquisition u OELA) del Departamento de Educación auspició este evento en colaboración con sus Oficinas de

Educación Primaria y Secundaria (Offices of Elementary and Secondary Education u OESE) y Servicios de Educación Especial y de Rehabilitación (Special Education and Rehabilitative Services u OSERS), el Programa de la Casa Blanca sobre la Excelencia Educativa de los Hispanos (White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics) y el Programa de la Casa Blanca para Asiáticos Estadounidenses e Isleños del Pacífico (White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders). Aunque 80 por ciento de los estudiantes de inglés en las escuelas de Estados Unidos son hispanos, OELA se ha comprometido a apoyar a todos los estudiantes de K-12 cuya lengua materna no es inglés.

¿Cuáles fueron los resultados de la conferencia? Según los participantes, fue tiempo bien aprovechado.

A María Quezada, CEO de la Asociación de California para la Educación Bilingüe (California Association for Bilingual Education), le sorprendió el formato.

“Yo tenía la idea de que sólo íbamos a hacer declaraciones. Pero esta conferencia va más allá, al darnos la oportunidad de hablar con fervor sobre asuntos de importancia para nosotros y de intercambiar información”, afirmó.

Daphne Kwock, presidenta de la Comisión de Asesoría al Presidente sobreAsiáticos Estadounidenses e Isleños del Pacífico (President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders) comentó, “Me impresionó en particular la diversidad de participantes de tantos estados”.

Judy Elliott, Ph.D., funcionaria académica en jefe del Distrito Escolar Unificado de Los Ángeles, alabó la estructura de la conferencia en torno a los participantes.

“Las personas con las que he hablado aquí están muy agradecidas por el extenso diálogo y están sacando nuevas ideas de esto”, indicó.

Se publicarán comentarios detallados para mejorar la enseñanza de los alumnos de inglés que fueron generados por esta conferencia en http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/meetings/2011elconversation/.

La autora de este artículo, Rosalinda B. Barrera, es secretaria adjunta y directora de la Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA).

Florida Joins Education Leaders to Encourage College Completion

Press Release
Thursday, March 3, 2011
DOE Press Office
(850) 245-0413

Finish Up Florida initiative to help increase the number of Americans earning postsecondary degrees

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida College System (FCS), along with 23 other members of the Complete College America Alliance, will meet March 4 – 5, 2011, in Miami to discuss a renewed focus on helping students finish their college degrees. The Alliance aims to increase the number of students earning a postsecondary credential by facilitating state policies and best practices that remove barriers to college completion. One Florida initiative, Finish Up Florida, is being launched this week with the goal of reaching out to students who left the college system without completing their studies and encouraging them to re-enroll and finish their degree.

“Our students deserve an opportunity to finish their college education, and the Finish Up, Florida initiative will provide them with a tool to help achieve that success,” said FCS Chancellor Dr. Will Holcombe. “The Florida College System stands ready with our partners to assist in making postsecondary education a reality for any student that pursues this dream.”

Representing Florida at the Alliance meeting will be Chancellor Holcombe, Sen. Stephen Wise, FCS Executive Vice Chancellor Dr. Judith Bilsky, Indian River State College President Edwin Massey, North Florida Community College President John Grosskopf, and Barney Bishop, President and CEO of Associated Industries of Florida.

Using FACTS.org, former students can access their college records to see how many credits they need to earn to complete their degree. Finish Up, Florida contains five easy steps for students to learn what they need to do to re-enroll in a college in the FCS and complete their college experience. Each of the 28 institutions in the Florida College System has pledged support for students who need help with re-enrolling.

Over the past three years, more than 73,000 students left the FCS without completing their degree. Through Complete College America, Finish Up, Florida and other new initiatives, the FCS will work to increase the number of graduates in 2019-20 to 146,283, by more than doubling the number who graduated in 2007-08. Other efforts include improving the accuracy of student placement, streamlining curriculum delivery options, particularly in remedial courses, and working with K-12 to increase the percentage of students graduating from high school who are considered “college ready.”

According to Community College Week’s annual Top 10 report, the FCS produced the second highest number of associate degrees in the nation. They served nearly 900,000 students in 2009-10, and 61,699 associate degrees were awarded at the 28 colleges in the system. For more information about the FCS, visit www.fldoe.org/cc/.

For more information on Finish Up Florida, visit FACTS.org.

Teachers Get a Big Surprise During Teacher Talk Show

DOE Press Office
(850) 245-0413

100 Florida teachers attend professional development-themed show and leave with surprise gifts in hand.

Orlando – February 18, 2011. Nearly 100 Florida educators got a big surprise yesterday, thinking they were attending a professional development workshop only to end up with both the training and numerous free educational products from vendors throughout the country. Themed as an “Oprah-Style” give-away, the Florida Department of Education (DOE) coordinated with Walt Disney World and nearly 20 different education vendors to turn its monthly “Teacher Talk” television show into a teacher appreciation extravaganza. The show was taped at Walt Disney World Saratoga Springs Resort and featured Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith, DOE’s teacher liaison Kelly Seay, and Disney’s Imagineers who worked in concert to pull the surprise off.

“Florida is home to some of the hardest working teachers in the nation, and I am thrilled that we were able to honor some of them during this special edition of Teacher Talk,” said Commissioner Smith. “The smiles on their faces were priceless and we are going to continue to identify and create more opportunities like this to honor as many of them as possible.”

Last month, educators were asked to submit an online application on the Just for Teachers website to be considered for the special show. Of the initial 1,000 applicants, 100 teachers were randomly selected to attend. The teachers attended the show under the guise of a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Professional Development workshop along with a Disney Youth Education Services fieldtrip through one of the Disney theme parks. What they walked away with was more than $180,000 of free products that could be used in their classrooms. Nineteen companies donated their educational products to the Florida Education Foundation as a way to extend their appreciation to Florida educators and to support education in Florida.

“I am grateful to each of our business partners for making this wonderful event possible and for contributing so generously to these educators,” added Commissioner Smith. “I can’t wait to hear about all the positive things they are able to do with these products as they work to build brighter futures for their students.”

“Teacher Talk” is a television show produced by the Florida Knowledge Network that focuses on Florida teachers and their innovations both in and out of the classroom. Each show is made available to every school district in the state. The special Teacher Appreciation episode will air on March 8, 2011, at 4:00 p.m. through local channels and will be webcast on the DOE website at www.fldoe.org. For more information about “Teacher Talk,” please visit http://www.fldoe.org/justforteachers.

The following companies donated instructional materials and professional development products for the Teacher Talk: Teacher Appreciation Show:

1105 Media
ASC Direct, Inc.
AWARD Reading
Brainchild Corporation
Britannica Digital Learning
Disney Y.E.S. Program
Ellison
ExploreLearning
Follett Software
Frog Publications
GradeCam Corporation
Herff Jones/Nystrom
Kagan Publishing
Novachi, Inc.
PolyVision
Reading Plus
Renaissance Learning
RM Education
SP Controls
Tekboard Educational System

The crucial stage of sending your child to University or College.

Welcome to my second article, written especially with many of you in mind and especially for those who like me are now in the crucial stage of sending their children to University or College.

According to the latest labor statistics conducted in 2008 and the official figures from the Department of Education, men without a college degree receive an average salary of $30,000 a year, compare to those who complete a University or College degree earning $50,000 annually. For women, the results are $24,000 per year versus $41,000 per year for those who had completed university or College degree.
Based on my experience as a mother and as a recognized consultant with the expertise and experience of having helped many students in planning their way to college, I consider the following steps may be valuable for the success of your children in this stage of their lives:

Classes, Grades, GPA (Grade Point Average) and Test for Admission to the University or College. From ninth grade on it is important to follow the requirements for graduation, talk to their counselor and help your child choose their classes based on their goals and aspirations for college. Choosing the right classes can have a significant impact on the GPA, one of several factors crucial to enter a university, together with the score on the academic admission test. For more information visit: www.CollegeBoard.com and www.ActStudent.org

Explore together the options for college. Accompany your child through the process of analyzing their options for college, Ask about the resources available in your school and how they can help. Attend college fairs together for more information. Make sure your child completes their personal and academic profile for all applications that can delivered online. For more information visit: www.FACTS.org and www.nacacnet.org.

Apply to college. It’s recommended you apply to at least 6 universities, two in each category: "safe", "realistic" and "likely." Request the necessary documents for each application and deliver everything to each school in the time predicted. A good letter of recommendation along with extracurricular activities and community service hours are part of the required information. For more information visit: www.commonapp.org.

Pay for college. Every year billions of dollars are available to help pay for college: Financial Aid and Scholarships are available to eligible families. Also available are student loans. IMPORTANT: In December all seniors should complete the "Bright Futures Scholarships" www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ssfad/bf/ and in January, the Federal Application FAFSA www.fafsa.ed.gov . For further assistance please call 1-800-433-3243. Visit: www.fastWeb.com, www.FinAid.org and www.ThinkCollege.net

I will continue to insist that this is the land of opportunity and for that reason we must educate, inform and seize all opportunities that are waiting for us and for anyone who takes the time to go further and does not take NOT for an answer.

I want to leave you with a couple of things to think about:

1.- Some of our cultural heritage is the aspiration of generations, which we must ensure that lasts over time, so that our children and grandchildren aspire to be much better than us from every point of view, beginning with the academic.
2. - Behind successful people are bright people who support, guide and advise them on the most crucial moments of their lives. As parents, that is our role in the lives of our children no matter what age they are.

By Elena Dolinski de Montilla - Elena.Dolinski@SylvanWeston.com

La etapa crucial de enviar a nuestros hijos a la Universidad o “College”.

Bienvenidos a mi segundo artículo, especialmente escrito con muchos de ustedes en mi pensamiento y en particular todos aquellos que como yo, hoy están en la etapa crucial de enviar a sus hijos a la Universidad o “College”.

En la última estadística laboral realizada en el 2008 y según cifras oficiales del Departamento de Educación, los resultados mostraron que los hombres sin estudios universitarios reciben en promedio un salario de 30 mil dólares al año, a diferencia de los que terminan la Universidad o “College degree” que ganan 50 mil dólares anuales. En el caso de las mujeres, los resultados muestran 24 mil dólares anuales versus 41 mil dólares al año para aquellas que tenían estudios Universitarios o “College degree”.
Basada en mi propia experiencia como madre y como asesora con reconocida experiencia de haber ayudado a muchos estudiantes en la planificación de su camino a la universidad, considero que los siguientes pasos pueden ser valiosos para el éxito en esta etapa de sus hijos:

Clases, Calificaciones, GPA (Grade Pointe Average) y Pruebas de Admisión a la Universidad o “College”. Desde el noveno grado es importante realizar seguimiento de los requisitos para graduarse, lo cual ayudará a su hijo a crear una selección de clases basada en sus objetivos posteriores al colegio y con una incidencia importante en el promedio de calificaciones; uno de algunos de los factores decisivos para entrar a la Universidad junto con la calificación obtenida en la prueba académica de admisión. Visitar: www.CollegeBoard.com www.ActStudent.org

Explorar juntos las opciones para la universidad. Acompañe a su hijo en el momento en que analice sus opciones para la universidad, asesórense en qué recursos están disponibles en su colegio y como le podrían ayudar. Asistan juntos a las ferias universitarias para obtener mayor información. Asegúrese de que su hijo complete su perfil personal y académico en todas las aplicaciones que le permitan realizar esta búsqueda en línea. Visitar: www.FACTS.org www.nacacnet.org

Postularse a la universidad. Se recomienda aplicar al menos a 6 universidades, dos en cada categoría: "seguras", "realistas" o "probables". Solicite los documentos necesarios para aplicar y entréguelos en los tiempos previstos. Una buena carta de recomendación junto a las actividades extraacadémicas y las horas de servicio comunitario son parte de la información requerida. Visitar: www.commonapp.org

Pagar la universidad. Todos los años están disponible miles de millones de dólares para ayudar a pagar la universidad: Ayuda Financiera para familias que califiquen y Becas cuyo monto recibido no debe ser regresado. También se encuentran disponibles los Préstamos Estudiantiles, cuyo monto recibido debe ser reintegrado en los términos acordados. IMPORTANTE: Los estudiantes de doceavo grado deben aplicar en Diciembre a la beca “Bright Futures Scholarships” www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ssfad/bf/ y en Enero, deben realizar la Aplicación Federal “FAFSA” www.fafsa.ed.gov . Para ayuda adicional favor llamar al 1-800-433-3243. Visitar: www.fastWeb.com www.FinAid.org www.ThinkCollege.net

Seguiré insistiendo en que este es el país de las oportunidades y por esa razón debemos educarnos, informarnos y aprovechar todas las oportunidades que están esperando por nosotros y por cualquiera que se tome el tiempo de ir más allá al recibir como respuesta: “NO SE PUEDE”.

Si después de leer este articulo podemos coincidir en dos cosas, sería más que recompensado el tiempo invertido en dedicarle este artículo:

1.- Parte de nuestra herencia cultural es la aspiración generacional, la cual debemos procurar que perdure en el tiempo, para que nuestros hijos y nietos aspiren ser mucho mejores que nosotros desde todo punto de vista, comenzando por la parte académica.

2.- Detrás de personas exitosas existen personas brillantes que los apoyan, guían y aconsejan en los momentos más cruciales de sus vidas. Como padres ese es nuestro principal rol en la vida de nuestros hijos sin importar la edad que ellos tengan.

By Elena Dolinski de Montilla – Elena.Dolinski@SylvanWeston.com

“The sky is the limit”

When we arrived in this county we never imagined how many new, unknown, and fascinating things awaited us. This is the land of opportunity, especially for enterprising people with a desire to improve ourselves; for those of you who don’t know us: It’s a pleasure to meet you, we are Hispanics.

Hispanic communities are full of people who arrived in this county with many things in common: the same languages with diverse accents, an appreciation for the aroma of coffee and chocolate, a passion for the world of futbol, yes the same sport that this county calls soccer and not football. The list could go on and on forever but one thing is certain, we all have the same goal: “WE ARE ALL TRYING TO PROVIDE OUR CHILDREN WITH A BETTER FUTURE, ONE FULL OF OPPORTUNITIES AHEAD OF THEM.”

It is this theme I will be discussing with you in this section, because from now on, I have the immense pleasure of sharing with each and every one of you. I also want to ask you a favor: “IF YOU FIND THIS ARTICLE INTERESTING AND HELPFUL--USE IT “cut it out” AND PASS IT ON TO ANOTHER PERSON, SHARE THE VOICE, CIRCULATE IT.” Since Hispanics have so many things in common, there surly exist many more people who would find this information useful. So now you know: “IF YOU FOUND THIS INTERESTING, PASS IT ON.”

Today we will be discussing the distinct things that affect us, not just as Hispanics, but as immigrants of this county; and particularly the things that directly relate to the education of our children and our opportunities to get involved, to participate, and to collaborate with the schools where our children learn.

I invite you to become a part of this journey with the goal of illustrating for you how we as parents and advocates for our children, can use the educational system to our advantage so that our families can achieve the goals that brought us to this country. In other words, the more information available to us, the greater our achievements and those of our children are likely to be.

Let’s begin with the first day that we visit school to enroll our students. We are greeted in the main office, and as much as we try to understand and communicate with the little English we have, they must tell us that they, “Don’t speak Spanish” and it is OK, most of the Hispanic students mothers didn’t speak English either. However, it is important to know, from the moment your child is enrolled in school in Florida that it is a requirement that schools provide information to parents in Spanish, Portuguese, and Creole so that parents can communicate effectively and help their students. Without effective communication the academic and emotional development of our children will be adversely affected. For more information about this requirement you may communicate with Yvette Fernandez in the ESOL Department a (754) 321-2051. Additionally, the Department of Education offers a free English education program on the Web www.usalearns.org.

“The sky is the limit” is an expression that I learned when I was only 17 years old. If we decide that this country is where our children will have the best possible future, then it is our duty to learn English sooner rather than later. We are our children’s first teachers and the ones whose example they will follow. If they are learning English or have already done so, we must lead the way.

By Elena Dolinski de Montilla – Elena.Dolinski@SylvanWeston.com

"El cielo es el límite"

Nunca imaginamos al llegar a este país cuantas cosas nuevas, desconocidas y fascinantes nos esperarían. Este es el país de las oportunidades, en especial para las personas emprendedoras y con sentido de superación; para aquellos que no tienen el placer de conocernos: Mucho Gusto, así somos los Hispanos.

Nuestras comunidades hispanas están llenas de personas que llegamos a este país con muchas cosas en común: un mismo idioma con diversos acentos, apreciar el aroma del café y del cacao, la pasión por el mundial de Futbol, si el mismo deporte que en este país llamamos Soccer y no Football; y aunque la lista pudiera lucir interminable lo cierto es que a todos nos une un propósito en particular: “PROCURAR UN MEJOR FUTURO Y PORVENIR PARA NUESTROS HIJOS, CON UN UNIVERSO LLENO DE OPORTUNIDADES POR DELANTE"

Y es de este tema del cual estaré conversando con ustedes en esta sección, que a partir de esta edición tengo la gran dicha e inmenso placer de compartir con todos y cada uno de ustedes. A cambio quiero pedirles un favor: “SI ESTE ARTICULO FUE DE TU INTERES Y UTILIDAD ESTE ARTICULO "recórtalo" Y PASALO A OTRA PERSONA, CORRE LA VOZ, COLOCALO A CIRCULAR. Si tantas cosas tenemos en común como hispanos, deben existir muchas más personas a las cuales esta información les sea de utilidad. Así que ya lo sabes: "SI FUE DE TU INTERES, PASALO"

Hoy estaremos conversando sobre los distintos aspectos que nos afectan no solo como Hispanos, sino como inmigrantes en este país, los cuales están directamente relacionados con la educación de nuestros hijos y nuestra oportunidad de involucrarnos de manera activa al participar y colaborar en las escuelas donde estudian nuestros hijos.
Los invito a realizar este recorrido con la promesa de ilustrar cada aspecto a fin de que puedan visualizar todos y cada uno de los retos, que como padres y representantes, debemos superar en este sistema educativo a fin de lograr el particular propósito que nos trajo a este país. Con un mensaje final en positivo junto con mucha información de nos permita procurarles ese gran futuro a nuestros hijos.

Comencemos con el primer día de visita al colegio para inscribir al estudiante: Somos recibidos en la oficina principal y por más que tratemos de hacer mímica, la respuesta en muchos casos es algo parecido a: "yo no hablo espaniol" y no existe nada malo con eso, simplemente muchas de nuestras madres tampoco hablan inglés. Inclusive posteriormente al asistir a una conferencia de maestros no existe quien apoye con la traducción para lograr el propósito de la reunión: “Comunicarse Efectivamente y ayudar al estudiante”, por lo cual el desempeño académico y emocional de nuestros estudiantes se ve afectado de manera importante. Muchos inmigrantes hispanos no hablan inglés cuando llegan aquí, pero hay que hacerles participar de algún modo. Por eso no solo es importante destacar dos aspectos:
1.- Todos los colegios en el estado de la Florida deben facilitar la información en los siguientes idiomas: español, portugués y creole, para mayor información pueden comunicarse con Yvette Fernández en el Departamento ESOL al (754) 321-2951.
2.- El Departamento de Educación ofrece un programa gratuito para aprender inglés en la Web www.usalearns.org.

“El cielo es el límite”, eso es algo que aprendí cuando solo tenía 17 años. Si decidimos que este es el país con el mejor porvenir de nuestros hijos, no podemos colocar un límite a nuestras habilidades y destrezas, debemos aprender inglés y cuanto antes mejor. Está en nuestras manos y recuerden que somos el mejor ejemplo a seguir para nuestros hijos y ellos ya están aprendiendo inglés o en el mejor de los casos ya aprendieron inglés.

Por: Elena Dolinski de Montilla – Elena.Dolinski@SylvanWeston.com

www.SchoolMathPrep.com & www.SylvanMathPrep.com

www.SchoolMathPrep.com is a free math resource for teachers and students in grades 7-12 to use during school hours - for remediation, enrichment and test preparation, and www.SylvanMathPrep.com is available for on-the-spot math guidance during homework time at home.

The educator-created sites deliver more than 2,000 instructor-led videos, covering 750 lessons in Pre-algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. Each lesson includes sample problems demonstrating the work and answers, summary notes, a quiz, a worksheet, and a deep thought question. The resources also feature a powerful search function – by concept or keyword or textbook (for a majority of U.S. middle and high school textbooks).

Sylvan Learning is offering www.SchoolMathPrep.com free-of-charge to any middle or high school in the United States and Canada for use during the school day and www.SylvanMathPrep.com has a free two-day trial.

Educators interested in securing the free math resource for their schools are encouraged to visit www.SchoolMathPrep.com.

To obtain extra help with your math homework – when and where you want it – visit our 24/7 math resource at www.SylvanMathPrep.com

Free Guide Gives Parents Tips and Suggestions To Avoid Report Cards

Weston, Florida. June 2010 – Report card day is often one of the school year’s most stressful times for parents and students. Yet parents can take simple steps to eliminate report card surprises and set the stage for their child’s year-round academic success.

“You and Your Child’s Report Card,” a free parents’ guide available from Sylvan Learning at tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/report_card_guide.cfm,gives parents numerous tips and suggestions to turn report card day into a day of achievement and celebration.

“It’s common for children to feel anxious about bringing home their report cards,” says Elena Dolinski de Montilla, Executive Director of Sylvan Learning in Weston.“ However, by frequently talking about school and discussing how your child is doing in each subject, parents can help their child prepare for report cards and reduce any apprehension he has about sharing his grades with you.”

Report cards enable parents to assess their child’s academic progress and assess his or her strengths and weaknesses. They also provide parents with an opportunity for further insight into their child’s progress in school.

When report cards come home, parents should discuss their child’s progress and any changes from previous terms. A report card is a communication tool and a reminder for parents to stay involved in their child’s education.

Sylvan Learning’s free online report card guide offers parents seven key pieces of advice for communicating with their children to help them achieve academic success. Advice offered in “You and Your Child’s Report Card” includes:

• Maintain open lines of communication
• Set goals with your child
• Organize your child’s academics
• Regularly track progress
• Identify trouble spots
• Get to know your child’s teacher
• Celebrate successes

The free online report card communications guide, and a variety of booklets and journals for students to help build reading, math and writing skills, can be found on Sylvan Learning’s web site at www.SylvanLearning.com.


Getting your child personalized instruction now can make a big difference in your child’s confidence and performance for the remainder of the school year - and beyond. With Sylvan’s personalized instruction, your child will develop the skills and confidence to achieve academic success.

New Placement Test Designed to Help Florida Increase College Graduation Rates

~ Florida postsecondary readiness test to better measure college readiness skills and placement ~

TALLAHASSEE (Wednesday, May 5, 2010) – The Florida College System announced today that it will develop, deliver and score a dynamic new Florida Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) that will be used to better gauge a student’s readiness for college and accurately place students in classes to increase their progression rates and help them graduate sooner. McCann Associates, a company that develops assessments, certifications, and diagnostic learning tools for public and private organizations, has been selected through a competitive bid process to devise the new test for Florida.

The new test will provide placement and diagnostic capabilities, customized by Florida faculty to align with the Florida Common Core College and Career Readiness Standards. This tool, combined with the test’s diagnostic capability in math, reading and writing will provide targeted feedback to help educators better identify students’ specific strength areas, as well as areas where improvement is needed.
According to Dr. Judith Bilsky, Executive Vice Chancellor with the Division of Florida Colleges, “Due to extensive work by our faculty and input from business and industry, we are confident that this new test will accurately assess the knowledge and skills required for proper placement and college success.”

The assessment will be available to high school and college students in August 2010, and will be the primary placement assessment used by The Florida College System. To learn more about the assessment, visit www.fldoe.org/cc.

About the Florida College System:

Florida’s colleges remain the primary point of access to higher education in Florida, with 66 percent of the state’s high school graduates pursuing postsecondary education beginning at a Florida college, and 81 percent of freshman and sophomore minority students in public higher education attending one of Florida’s 28 colleges.

Manatee Bay Elementary School - Certificate of Appreciation

Sylvan Learning Weston is creating a real connection with the staff, students and parents of the MANATEE BAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.

Special thanks to Katie Dowe / PTA President, Mayra Hernandez / Proud Intern Principal & Donna McCann / Proud Principal of Manatee Bay Elementary School, for the Certification of Appreciation received today!

At Sylvan Learning Weston, we are very proud to start building a strong relationship with Manatee Bay Elementary School.

Enjoy the pictures: Manatee Bay Elementary

For more information please call
(954) 349-1717 or email: info@sylvanweston.com

Sylvan Learning Center is now in Weston

Sylvan Learning Center Coming to Weston
Elena Dolinski de Montilla, education enthusiast and community advocate, purchases Weston territory; Sylvan Learning center set to open January 5th

WESTON, FL and BALTIMORE, MD – January, 2009 – Sylvan Learning, Inc., the nation’s leading provider of private tutoring for students in grades pre-K through 12, today announced the sale of the Weston territory to local businesswoman Elena Dolinski de Montilla.

After spending twenty-three years working for the McDonald’s corporation in Venezuela, Elena Dolinski and her family moved to Weston, Florida five years ago. Elena Dolinski immediately became active in the Broward County community holding several volunteer positions including President of the Fundraising Committee for Manatee Bay Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Association, President of the English Speakers of Other Leadership (ESOL) Council, Chair of Communication for the District Advisory Council and Board Member at the YMCA Broward County location.

“After arriving in Weston, I began to research franchises in the area,” said Elena Dolinski. “I knew Sylvan was the best one — it has an outstanding reputation and offers some of the best services in supplemental education.”

While Elena Dolinski had the option to purchase an existing Sylvan franchise in a neighboring community, she opted instead to purchase the Weston territory, committing to start up her own new center. “I already had the location for the center, so purchasing the territory made the most sense for me,” said Elena Dolinski. “As I become more familiar with the types of programs in demand and the needs of the community, I also plan to start up other centers in the area.”

Elena Dolinski has already made a significant impact on the community and by opening a new Sylvan center, hopes to better serve the children and she is not afraid of hard work, as evidenced by the list of volunteer activities she has been involved with and excelled in over the past five years.

Elena Dolinski feels confident that the new center will adapt to the community needs. “The Weston area is very diverse and has a strong need for supplemental education,” said Elena Dolinski. “I believe the Sylvan center will be a positive addition as the community continues to grow.”

The center will be located at 2600 Glades Circle, Suite 1500 in Weston. Situated in a great location in town, the center will serve over ten community schools and more than 18,000 students.

To inform parents and schools about the new center’s offerings, Elena Dolinski plans to work collaboratively with the school districts in the area. To encourage parents to get involved she will send information to PTA members and plans to offer 100 free homework help hours that the PTA can raffle off at school functions. “I want to improve students’ study skills and offer strong homework help programs,” said Elena Dolinski. “Many of the parents in the area have limited English reading and speaking abilities, so homework help programs will be particularly helpful to them in making sure their children’s homework is getting done in a timely manner.”

Joining Elena Dolinski’s staff Paula Richards, Center Director, who is an ESOL teacher in the community. “By hiring local school teachers as tutors, the center will have a very familiar and comforting feel for the students,” said Elena Dolinski.

“We are pleased to sell the Weston territory to Elena, who has stellar credentials, is familiar with Sylvan’s supplemental education programs, and is passionate about education and helping children in the community,” said Jeff Cohen, president and CEO of Sylvan Learning, Inc. “With the continuing changes in the supplemental education market, we’ve found that local ownership that combines community involvement and partnerships with local school systems are key factors that ensure each Sylvan Learning center’s success.”

Did you know?

Did you know?

Florida is one of only 8 states that pays for its tenth graders to take the PSAT. Florida began this program in 2001 to encourage more students to consider going to college.

The number of tenth graders taking the PSAT increased from 90,000 in 2001 to almost 140,000 in 2007.

Gator Run Elementary School - Volunteer Breakfast

Sylvan Learning Center is creating a real connection with the students and parents of the GATOR RUN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.

Special thanks to Jamie Cohen / PTA President, Karen Toomey-Gibson / PTA Executive Vice President, Adele Holzbach and Erika True / VPs of Volunteers & Susan Sasse / Proud Principal of Gator Run Elementary School.

Enjoy pictures:
Gator Run Elementary


At Sylvan Learning Center, we are very excited to build a relationship with each school in our community.

For more information please call (954) 349-1717 or email: info@sylvanweston.com