News

On Wednesday, February 28th, TRECA Digital Academy students visited COSI, the dynamic Center of Science and Industry, in Columbus, OH. Students began the day in the Giant Screen Theater watching the film Tornado Alley. Students watched researchers from the Vortex project chase tornadoes through tornado alley in the largest scientific mission on storms ever conducted. After the film, students had the opportunity to explore many of the COSI exhibits. To name just a few, students learned about our prehistoric past in the Dinosaur Gallery, they traveled through time and interacted with technology from 1898 and 1962 in the Progress exhibit, and they explored what makes us human in the Life exhibit. It was a great experience for all of our families! Thank you to COSI and all who attended!

On Thursday, February 22, TRECA Digital Academy students visited the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Nearly 50 students and parents attended the 2-hour guided tour, and families were moved by the powerful exhibits, displays, and presentations. Several previous attendees stated that they learn something new every time they visit!

The museum focuses on the Mid-19th Century when the United States was divided between free and slave states. Students learned why the historic route to freedom was called the Underground Railroad and why its organizers and participants were referred to as "Conductors." They also explored what it was like to be enslaved, what it was like to try to escape, and how the Ohio River Valley played a special role in the passage to freedom. Students witnessed personal journeys of courage, commitment, and trust, and they heard stories of freedom’s heroes!

The museum was very engaging, and students walked away with a newfound perspective on this vital time in our nation's history. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the trip!

Andrew Panik, twelfth grader at TRECA Digital Academy, continues to reach for the stars! In this case, a life dedicated to the prestigious stars and stripes of the United States Military.

After years of hard work, he is finally steps away from his goal of being accepted into the United States Naval Academy– and ultimately reaching his goal of becoming an officer of the United States Marine Corps. Coming from a military background, this has been a life-long goal of Andrew's. Even his dog is named Lieutenant! And while receiving acceptance into the US Naval Academy may be his ultimate goal, he has been honored with various military nominations. With additional nominations to the United States Military Academy of West Point and the United States Air Force Academy, he is a man with a plan! Or three!

It would be an understatement to say it's "challenging" to enter the US Naval Academy. Candidates must receive a nomination from sources such as congressmen, senators, or the Vice President. Recently, Andrew received two letters of nominations. One was from Ohio 4th District Congressman Jim Jordan, and one was from United States Senator Sherrod Brown. But Andrew's hard work can't stop there!

The US Naval Academy only accepts 9% of candidates, so many other components will play into their final decision. Andrew has stated that his academics and community involvement will be a major contributor! He has shared that this was all made possible by the flexibility offered by online schooling. "TRECA and its staff have been a tremendous help in getting me this far." said Andrew.
 
We are proud and honored to support him through this process! We have the highest hopes that Andrew will be accepted. Good luck, Andrew!

On Tuesday, December 12, TRECA Digital Academy students participated in STEM Day with the Columbus Blue Jackets! The afternoon kicked off with an open skate on the main ice. Students loved being able to skate on the same ice as the players! After the open skate, students and families gathered to watch a video on the Blue Jackets’ founder, John McConnell. Students learned how he started the team and the barriers he overcame to create an NHL team in Columbus. The later half of the afternoon was filled with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics! Students had a Q&A with a panel of professionals from various industries including:

• Columbus Blue Jackets PA Announcer, Greg Murray
• IT Solutions Delivery Director at IGS Energy, Matt Keller
• Application Development Manager at IGS Energy, Rick Kierner
• Assistant Program Director for OB/GYN Residency at Mount Carmel Health and OSU, Elsie Young.

Students enjoyed asking the panel questions and learning about each of their fields. We learned about their day-to-day job responsibilities, the steps they took to get to where they are today, and also the challenges they face in their field. Their common piece of advice for students was to follow your passion!

Aidan Rogers, 7th grader at TRECA Digital Academy, has been selected to audition at the International Presentation of Performers (iPOP!). It’s the largest single event where hundreds of scouts, agents, coaches, and managers are looking for talent! Aspiring performers from over 30 countries come together to train with industry experts and audition in front of professionals.

Aidan’s journey started two months ago when he saw an ad to audition for an acting and modeling workshop in Columbus. Aidan said he’s always been very shy, but always had a secret dream of acting. He said his mom was completely shocked that he wanted to audition!

There were 300 kids at the audition and 25 were selected to participate in the workshop. Aidan made the cut! He received coaching in auditioning techniques, monologues, improv, acting principles, and more. Much of the content was delivered from big Hollywood names including Robert Vito from Spy Kids and famous director and acting coach, Julian Georgeo.

After the workshop, Aidan was personally selected by Julian Georgeo to attend iPOP! in January 2018 in Las Vegas! He is beyond excited about the possibilities! He is hoping to be selected for a commercial, magazine, or even a TV show.

Aidan says he will always continue to meet his goals, maintain honor roll at school, and encourage others to reach for their dreams. We’re so excited that you found your path, Aidan! We will all be rooting for you. Break a leg!