These rankings, which encompass 348 public high schools, shed light on which Alabama high schools are doing the best job of preparing their students for college and careers in math- and science-related fields. Schools are measured on nine indicators, including average ACT scores, advanced math and science course offerings, and performance on the Alabama High School Exit Exam. The results present a diverse picture of math and science education across the state. As in Texas, some schools excel, while others struggle to provide their students with a challenging math and science education.

Through the Alabama Math and Science School Rankings, CHILDREN AT RISK aims to promote the transparent use of data and spark dialogue in Alabama’s public education community. The goal of these rankings is to shed light on which high schools are doing the best job of preparing their students for college and careers with a math and science focus.

Importance of Science and Mathematics Education

According to the latest Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), America’s eighth graders perform above the international average in mathematics. However, very few American students (6%) score at the advanced level, and a number of other nations significantly outperform the U.S. on this measure. It is essential for America’s students to be well-grounded in science and mathematics. According to a recent Georgetown University study, science- and mathematics-related jobs are projected to be the second-fastest growing workforce cluster over the next decade, with 2.4 million jobs opening up in this field [1].

RESULTS

Alabama’s Top 25 High Schools in Science and Mathematics are:

1. Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School, Montgomery County
2. Mountain Brook High School, Jefferson County
3. Bob Jones High School, Madison County
4. Shades Valley High School, Jefferson County
5. Hoover High School, Jefferson County
6 Auburn High School, Lee County
7. Vestavia Hills High School, Jefferson County
8. Spain Park High School, Shelby County
9. Homewood High School, Jefferson County
10. Huntsville High School, Madison County
11. Ramsay High School, Jefferson County
12. Oak Mountain High School, Shelby County
13. Virgil Grissom High School, Madison County
14. New Century Technology High School, Madison County
15. Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School, Montgomery County
16. Pisgah High School, Jackson County
17. Northview High School, Houston County
18. Oxford High School, Calhoun County
19. Linden High School, Marengo County
20. Murphy High School, Mobile County
21. Talladega County Central High School, Talladega County
22. Pleasant Home School, Covington County
23. Woodland High School, Randolph County
24. Northridge High School, Tuscaloosa County
25. Ranburne High School, Cleburne County

Three Gold Ribbon Schools, where over 90% of their students are considered economically disadvantaged, were recognized for their excellent performance in science and mathematics education:

1. Linden High School, Linden City Schools
2. Talladega County Central High School, Talladega County Schools
3. George Washington Carver High School, Birmingham City Schools

In the Greater Birmingham area, the Top 10 High Schools in Science and Mathematics are:

1. Mountain Brook High School, Mountain Brook City Schools
2. Shades Valley High School, Jefferson County Schools
3. Hoover High School, Hoover City Schools
4. Vestavia Hills High School, Vestavia Hills City Schools
5. Spain Park High School, Hoover City Schools
6. Homewood High School, Homewood City Schools
7. Ramsay High School, Birmingham City Schools
8. Oak Mountain High School, Shelby County Schools
9. George Washington Carver High School, Birmingham City Schools
10. Clay-Chalkville High School, Jefferson County Schools

PARTNERS

A huge thanks to our partners, El Paso Corporation’s Southern Natural Gas, for their sponsorship of this project and committment to excellent science and mathematics education.

RESOURCES

CHILDREN AT RISK 2012 Alabama High School Science and Mathematics Rankings

CHILDREN AT RISK 2012 Alabama High School Science and Mathematics Rankings – Excluded Schools

CHILDREN AT RISK 2012 Alabama High School Science and Mathematics Rankings – Methodology

SOURCES

Carnevale, Anthony P et.al. (2011). STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics. Center on Education and the Workforce. Georgetown University. Available at http://www9.georgetown.edu/grad/gppi/hpi/cew/pdfs/stem-execsum.pdf. Accessed Feb. 8, 2012.

These rankings, which encompass 348 public high schools, seek to shed light on which Alabama high schools are doing the best job of preparing their students for college and careers in math- and science-related fields. Schools are measured on nine indicators, including average ACT scores, advanced math and science course offerings, and performance on the Alabama High School Exit Exam. The results present a diverse picture of math and science education across the state. As in Texas, some schools excel, while others struggle to provide their students with a challenging math and science education.

As CHILDREN AT RISK seeks to encourage the use of data in public education in Texas, the Alabama School Rankings provide an opportunity to promote this important platform farther afield. Just as in Texas, Alabama’s state legislature is struggling with a tight budget, with serious consequences for the public education system. CHILDREN AT RISK relishes the opportunity to bring solid data and a fresh outlook to bear on Alabama’s public education conversation.

As an organization dedicated to driving change in the lives of children, CHILDREN AT RISK speaks out on many levels—public education, food insecurity, mental health and child abuse—but one issue that especially breaks our hearts is child sex trafficking. Shockingly, the annual percentage of trafficking and slavery cases solved is less than one percent. But, together we can make a difference and give our children hope.

This year, CHILDREN AT RISK was integral in the passage of legislation expanding the definition of human trafficking, enhancing penalties for traffickers and third parties, and providing funds for rehabilitation through mandatory restitution for child victims.

When you join us with dedicated co-chairs, Kathryn and Bob Baker of El Paso Corporation, Adrienne Publicover and Kyle Jennings of American General Life Companies, and Curtis Frasier of Shell Oil Company, you will support all of CHILDREN AT RISK’s efforts and provide a better future for our children by raising awareness, enacting change through legislation, educating law enforcement and service providers, and tackling the causes for both the supply and demand sides of the industry.

We hope that you will join us this year for an evening of laughter, divine dining, and an incredible mission, as we continue to give hope to children all across the state of Texas. After all, they are one third of our population and 100% of our future. To sponsor a table or buy an individual ticket, please call Laura Nelson, Director of Strategic Partnerships, at 713.869.7740 or lnelson@childrenatrisk.org.

At the 12 for 12 Campaign Launch Party, CHILDREN AT RISK volunteers and staff unveiled the official video of the Campaign. The video featured everyday people who describe what they were doing at the age of 12. Many recalled lazy afternoons outside with friends that brought a smile to everyone’s face as they remembered similar instances in their lives. Next, respondents said something they did not have to do when they were 12. At this moment, the audience became somber as they heard the respondents describe actions and fears that between 100,000 and 300,000 domestic child sex trafficking victims face daily. The end of the video provided an uplifting conclusion when the onlookers realized that each respondent is a member of the 12 for 12 Campaign. To view the video and learn how you can post your own, visit www.childrenatrisk.org/12-for-12-campaign!

Members of the 12 for 12 Campaign have made the commitment to give $12 because each 12 year old deserves a childhood! Each member will receive monthly emails notifying them of unique opportunities to combat domestic minor sex trafficking, informing them of local human trafficking events and volunteer opportunities, and inviting them to all CHILDREN AT RISK 12 for 12 Campaign events. The Campaign will also call each participant to be an advocate in the community by telling their friends, family, and business associates about the status of our children, as well as asking them to become a member by donating $12! Learn more at www.childrenatrisk.org/12-for-12-campaign!

Interested in doing something today? Join the CHILDREN AT RISK CETEC Volunteer Group.  For more information, call 713-869-7740 or email Steven Goff, Assistant Director of CETEC, at sgoff@childrenatrisk.org!

What originally interested you in becoming a member of the CHILDREN AT RISK family?

Truthfully, I have always been a volunteer at heart and always had a passion for helping kids.

Since joining Junior Acheivement and becoming a mom, there was just no denying that Katy always wanted to be a volunteer, working to better the lives of children. Once Katy retired in 2006, she approached a man at Rice University in hopes of receiving a career consultation. That man was Dr. Bob Sanborn.

I told him that I want to be a volunteer, help children, support education, use my business skills, and be an overall supporter for those working for children. Of course, there was no better fit than with CHILDREN AT RISK. Today I am proud to say that I work for, and fully support, the CHILDREN AT RISK family and the children of Texas.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How Katy Supports CHILDREN AT RISK:

Katy has been a generous supporter and donor of CHILDREN AT RISK since 2008. She is a strong advocate for the children of Texas and has been so inspiring that board members and constituents have joined our family in honor of her work. Katy has also volunteered with the CHILDREN AT RISK development team since 2006 and is now a vital pilar of support for the entire organization. More than a volunteer, an advocate, and a donor, Katy’s presence never fails to brighten your day or teach you something new. The CHILDREN AT RISK staff is very thankful to have her!

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What has been your favorite memory with CHILDREN AT RISK?

When I first learned about CHILDREN AT RISK, I couldn’t help but to think it should be a larger organization with a wider reach. I knew that its mission was necessary in Texas, the United States, and beyond!

After being here for the better part of 5 years, Katy is proud of the amazing progress, growth and development CHILDREN AT RISK has had.

Thinking back on my favorite memory, I would have to say that seeing the organization making strides in the direction I pictured my first day as a volunteer ranks pretty high.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What are your community activities or hobbies Katy?

Beyond being a volunteer, I enjoy cooking, sailing, and traveling. I thoroughly enjoy any activity that allows me to see the beauty around me!

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

When you grow up, what do you want to be?

Honestly… I wanted to do what every child wants to do… Save the World! My plan was to discover a way to turn trash into useable energy and eliminate waste. Today, I aspire to be a good role model to those around me whenever the opportunity presents itself. If I can do that, then I feel like I’m still doing my small part to make tomorrow better than today.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What is your favorite part of the CHILDREN AT RISK mission?

It’s not Democrat, it’s not Republican, it’s not religious… it’s something we can ALL get behind. We were all children, some of us have children, grandchildren, neices, and nephews, and all of us know that children are our future. This organization advocates for our children rather than a preference or opinion.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What is one reason someone should give their time, effort, and support to CHILDREN AT RISK?

Well, it depends on the person but… the one thing that drew me in was that this organization’s actions are data and evidenced-based. I am an economist by trade and I speak the language of proof and data. For someone out there like me, I would tell them that the policy recommendations and changes that CHILDREN AT RISK makes are based in truth and fact.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Tell us why you should be the NEXT Children’s Hero of the Month by sharing this post and writing on our Facebook page and Tweeting @childrenatrisk!

Where: The United Way of Greater Houston, 50 Waugh Drive, 77007
When: Wednesday, January 25th from 8:00am – 12:00pm
How: Register Here!

Opening Remarks
Karen Labat, Social Investment Manager, Education, Shell Oil Company
Representative Randy Weber, District 29

Status Update on Houston’s Children 
Dr. Bob Sanborn, President and CEO, CHILDREN AT RISK
Dawn Lew, Senior Staff Attorney, CHILDREN AT RISK

Parenting Panel: Engaging our Parents  
Jaime Castaneda, Principal, Jeff Davis High School
Anita Jackson, Director of Social Media and Blogging, MomsRising.org
Nancy Correa, Director, Center for Parenting and Family Well-Being, CHILDREN AT RISK
Moderator: Matthew Barnes, Executive Director, Families Empowered

The Virtual Classroom
Dr. Scott Van Beck, Executive Director, Houston A + Challenge

Keynote Presentation: Power of the Network
Marty Kearns, Executive Director of PreventObesity.net, a project of Netcentric Campaigns

Latino Children’s Panel: Reaching the New Majority
Martha Kattan, News Director, UNIVISION Houston
Father TJ Martinez, President, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School
Moderator: Gloria Luna Bounds, Community Affairs, Center Point

Building Your Network 101 
Rebecca Frank, Online Network Analyst and Coordinator of PreventObesity.net, a project of Netcentric Campaigns

Putting Your Network into Action
David Thompson, Founder, Ttweak
Dr. Ann Stiles, Executive Director, Project GRAD Houston

Closing Remarks
Dr. Bob Sanborn, President and CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK

Event registration is only $25 and includes breakfast. Register today!

Your generous DONATION of $12 will help to raise awareness of child sex trafficking, build unified community collaboration and action to help support local efforts, and advocate for decreased demand and increased protection of victims to ensure that every 12 year old has a childhood.

Join Today!

Official 12 for 12 Video

What is the 12 for 12 Campaign?

In 2012, CHILDREN AT RISK is asking anti-child trafficking supporters to give $12 for 12 year olds. The average age of entrance into prostitution is 12 years old, making it one of the most horrendous issues facing our youth today. Your $12 will go directly to the efforts of CHILDREN AT RISK’s Center to End the Trafficking and Exploitation of Children (CETEC) and is a commitment from the donor to join the 12 for 12 Campaign.

The 12 for 12 Campaign is meant to raise money and awareness to end child sex trafficking, support survivors, and educate and empower the community to become advocates. As a member of the 12 for 12 Campaign, supporters will receive monthly emails updating them on victories in the field, atrocities being committed, and solutions they can participate in. The Campaign will also offer several events throughout the year and volunteer opportunities. Overall, the 12 for 12 Campaign has the goal of empowering advocates to become experts on the issue of child sex trafficking so that they can be a part of the solution and inform others of an issue often overlooked.

What can I do in the fight against child sex trafficking?

CHILDREN AT RISK and the CETEC volunteers hosted the 12 for 12 Campaign launch party where the official Campaign video was launched on December 12, 2011. The video showcases the impact one person can have and is meant to encourage others to be a part of the movement! Join us in the 12 for 12 Campaign by making your own short YouTube video! By encouraging friends, coworkers, and family to join the Campaign as well, CHILDREN AT RISK hopes to make this chain a videos go viral.

Making your own video is simple! First, tell us what you were doing at the age of 12 -playing outside, fond memories with friends, sports, and so on. Then reflect on what you did not have to do when you were 12 – worry about where you were going to sleep, wonder if you were going to eat, fear being sold on the streets at night, etc. Finally, encourage your friends to join the 12 for 12 Campaign and tell them why you are passionate about being a part of the solution.

Click here to visit the CHILDREN AT RISK Channel!

The 12 for 12 Campaign is also dedicated to keeping a finger on the pulse of human trafficking and will be updating all Campaign members on volunteer opportunties, letter writing campaigns, any Human Trafficking Awareness Month activities, victories achieved by CETEC and other anti-human trafficking efforts, and more.

Finally, the best way to further the goal of preventing child sex trafficking is to tell your friends and family! Your passion as an advocate and the knowledge you gain can be shared with others to create a wildfire of information and a chain reaction that political leaders and community leaders cannot ignore.

Why Should I Support the 12 for 12 Campaign?

According to the Department of Justice, it is estimated that about 293,000 American youth are at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking. The majority of American victims of commercial sexual exploitation tend to be runaway and throw away youth who are introduced to a pimp/trafficker within 48 hours of leaving home.

Astoundingly, the average entrance age in to sex trafficking in the United States is 12 years old. The 12 for 12 Campaign is designed to bring this horrible statistic to the forefront of the community by encouraging individuals to raise awareness through interactive media and word-of-mouth.

Click here to learn more about CETEC!

powered by:
Easy Fundraising Ideas

Join CHILDREN AT RISK and their Board of Directors for the
6th Annual CHILDREN AT RISK Gala:

AN EVENING WITH JAY LENO
Standing Up for Our Youth

An Evening with Jay Leno benefits CHILDREN AT RISK and its Center to End the
Trafficking and Exploitation of Children. The spectacular event will feature comedian
Jay Leno, a VIP reception, and an exclusive live auction. We will also be announcing
our esteemed honoree who will receive the 2012 Founders Award. Benefactors from
the $5,000 level and upwards will be invited to a private reception and photo
opportunity with Jay Leno—A Night to Remember!

Location: Bayou City Event Center
9401 Knight Road
Houston TX 77045

Date:  March 24, 2012

Reserve Your Table Today!
Tables: $25,000, $15,000, $10,000, $5,000, $3,500
Individual Dinner Tickets: $1,000, $500, $350

Love Jay Leno? Click here to buy tickets to the show only!

To reserve your table or for more information, click here or please contact Laura Nelson at 713.869.7740 or lnelson@childrenatrisk.org.

Throughout the day, attendees and co-sponsors were encouraged to participate in the “Two Cents for Change” initiative, which allowed participants to put in their two cents and contribute ideas for education reform. At the end of the day, everyone’s ideas were compiled into a master list of “Things YOU Can Do to Advance Education Reform.” Sample ideas include:

#3: Read with your children every day.

#9: Join or organize a PTA at your local school.

#17: Help students discover career options by taking on summer interns at your place of work.

#21: Write a letter to a tenth grader, and ask them to write back.

#31: Offer to assist students with their college applications.

This list is tailored to various stakeholders in the education reform conversation and focuses on practical action steps. The full list of “Things YOU Can Do to Advance Education Reform“ contains 31 ideas…one for each day of the month!