September 2010 Newsletter
Dear Students, Parents, and Community Members,
Welcome back! The beginning of another school year brings anticipation for different classes and adventures with old and new friends. The months of July and August have been very busy in the building. Contractors have been completing the excel project. The buildings and grounds folks have worked diligently to prepare the building for our students. Many teachers worked collaboratively to write and update various curriculums so our students are provided with meaningful and rigorous courses.
We are implementing many new initiatives at the high school this year to provide our students and families with support and information so our educational programs are enhanced. Please note the following programs:
- We are implementing an anti-bullying program in the building. Students in 7th grade will be provided direct instruction about the dangers and hurtful outcomes of bullying. The counselors and social worker will meet with students to provide strategies for dealing with difficult situations in a productive manner. Boxes will be placed around the building so students are provided a confidential way to report instances of bullying and suggestions for improving the atmosphere at the high school.
- Students will be assigned to a teacher for an advisement period that has been scheduled for Fridays. There are two goals for the newly instituted advisement periods. First, advisement periods will provide students with an opportunity to go to their content teachers for help. Secondly, it is our hope that students will build a close relationship with their advisement teachers so that problems and solutions can be discussed. The advisement teacher will become a mentor to their assigned students.
- The District is continuing a new program this year called PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports.) The focus this year will be to help students understand the importance of being prepared to learn each and every day. It is the committee's goal to enhance the learning environment in the District to promote youth development and academic achievement. We will work to create and maintain a productive, safe environment in which all school community members have clear expectations and understandings of their role in the educational process.
- The high school Open House was scheduled for Wednesday, September 1st. We changed the format and date of our Open House to encourage more participation. I look forward to hearing your feedback and input about this change.
- Our students are already excited about Homecoming, which is scheduled for October 1st and 2nd. This is traditionally a weekend when our students and community members come together to enjoy many events, including a pep rally, soccer camp, carnival, community soccer game, parade, JV and varsity athletic events, and a Homecoming dance. We encourage you and your children to join us for this weekend full of festivities.
- Parents of children in grades 7 – 12 will be able to access their children's grades in Schooltool to enhance and improve our school/home communication. Shari Hardenbrook provided parents with an in-service about the Parent Portal at Open House. Parents received instructions about how to access their children's grades using the parent portal. If you were unable to attend Open House you can access the directions for logging onto the Parent Portal on the school website.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Carol D'Agostino
Kendall Junior/Senior High School Principal
If you have any questions or concerns please contact me at 659-2706 or send an email
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