Academic Curriculum
The Education Department is dedicated to improving the academic performance of each cadet. As an alternative school, the primary focus is on basic adult education. A strong secondary purpose is to establish a desire and appreciation for life-long learning. Academic classes are prepared and conducted around the subject areas tested on the General Educational Development (GED) test. The six classes are briefly described below:
1. Mathematics
2. Reading Literature
3. Science, Health & Hygiene
4. Writing Skills
5. Job Skills & Employability
6. Social Studies
1. Mathematics: This review class covers numbers, fractions, operations, measurement, data analysis, algebra and geometry. Comprehension and accuracy with all basic functions are necessary to attain this part of the GED exam.
2. Reading Literature: Course promotes skill development with speed, comprehension and timed test strategies. Knowledge of current events and vocabulary is expanded via discussion with the use of newspapers and magazines.
3. Science, Health & Hygiene: As preparation for the GED, cadets cover content in earth, life, space and physical science using comprehension skills, with application, evaluation and analysis of data. In Health and Hygiene, instruction and group discussions promote good mental, emotional, and physical health. Lessons include proper hygiene and nutrition, sexual responsibility, and knowledge of the effects of substance abuse.
4. Writing Skills, Grammar, Essay: The class reviews classic language arts fundamentals. It may not matter to your friends or family how, or what, or if, you write. It does matter, however, to the Oklahoma State Department of Education. This branch of state government evaluates all tests. The requirement is to legibly combine words into complete sentences, and then paragraphs, to create an essay. A skilled and organized expository essay is required for the GED.
5. Job Skills & Employability: Class is preparation for the world of work. Job search skills, goal setting, a cover letter, a resume, job applications, the interviewing process, career interest plus learning styles inventories, work ethics, and job shadowing experiences will enhance every cadet's marketability.
6. Social Studies: Class is GED preparation for economics, geography, history, civics and government. Activities related to the US Constitution, democratic process, citizenship rights and responsibilities are expanded. Practical personal finance is more than budgeting, credit awareness issues, or checking and savings accounts.
TABE Testing
TYA closely adheres to NGB standards. The education staff utilizes computer software to administer the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE). Cadets are tested to measure; 1) initial preparedness, and 2) exiting academic standing. The initial TABE test is conducted during the second week of the program during pre-challeNGe. The exit TABE post-test, given during week 19, is used to document a measurement of progress for each cadet. Satisfactory completion, or improvement, of the Academic Excellence Core Component is required for graduation from the program.
Reading Proficiency
Cadets who successfully read at an eighth grade level as required by Oklahoma law, will receive a reading proficiency document which is necessary to secure an Oklahoma Drivers License before the age of 18.
GED Testing Procedures
TABE testing occurs prior to a practice GED test is administered to each cadet. This score result will determine suitability to take the next scheduled GED exam. Three (3) opportunities are possible to qualify for taking the actual GED exam. Historically, approximately 30% of cadets successfully complete the entire residential program phase, without attaining a GED credential. Yet, they have been gratified from having shown dynamic progress with math and reading comprehension.
Computer Labs, Tutorials, Unisex Classes
Academic classes are taught by state certified instructors. State of the art, networked, computer labs provide realistic employability training lessons. Based on need, time and individual interest, supplemental academic training is available from peer tutors, school instructors or via the computer lab. The computer software lessons are self-paced, but closely monitored by the instructor. Most cadets enjoy the structured lab environment as they advance at their own pace and level of proficiency. Classes are conducted in a separate sex environment except the college courses. Internet access and email accounts are not available.
Class Routine
Cadets, following military protocol, are placed with a peer group on a rotating daily class schedule. All are required to attend each subject area. Morning class times are from 8:00 am to 11:50 am. Afternoon classes are 1:00 pm to 2:50 pm, each Monday through Thursday. Policy and current practice requires that assignments be performed and completed during actual classroom time. There is no homework.
Electives & Enrichment
Each Friday is dedicated to a variety of small group, post-residential type activities; CPR training, field trips, guest speakers, community projects, and electives. Electives may include yearbook, photography, newspaper, golf, art, meal preparation, honor guard, color guard, and various team sports. Cadets are placed in electives according to their personal interests. Also, cadets participate in an accredited defensive driving course and may take a hunting safety course.
College Classes & ACT Test
Cadets who qualify, and pass the initial round of GED testing, may choose to take a college course. Thunderbird Youth Academy, in conjunction with Oklahoma State University (OSU) Okmulgee, and/or Rogers State University (RSU), offer this choice. All tuition and fees for college credit is the responsibility of cadets and their parents. Cadets may attend only one of these institutions. Any interested cadet may register to take the ACT test. Participants in any college coursework must take the test plus follow entrance guidelines.
Job Shadowing
Cadets who take and pass the second round battery of GED testing may qualify to receive a valuable personal experience, with two (2) weeks on the job training, at local businesses. A large host of businesses and governmental agencies located in Pryor, Oklahoma, voluntarily participate in this popular job-shadowing program.