large view Mr. Ivory, Principal

Greetings:

NCA INFORMATION

This semester the high school is scheduled for a Quality Assurance Review by North Central Association (NCA).  The review is part of the process for monitoring school accreditation by NCA.  Ferndale High School is and has always been a fully accredited institution.  The entire staff is involved in the accreditation process.   A team from the North Central Association will visit our school April 29-30 to carry out the Quality Assurance Review.

Accreditation is a voluntary method of quality method of quality assurance.  It engages the school community in meeting high quality standards and implementing a continuous improvement process.   Schools that are accredited demand rigor, makes informed decisions through data and approaches the documentation of results with order.

The purpose of the QAR is to:

1.                  Evaluate the school’s adherence to the standards.

2.                  Assess the effectiveness of the school’s improvement efforts.

3.                  Review performance results and how those results are used to inform improvement efforts.

4.                  Provide high-quality feedback with clear recommendations and actionable steps.

5.                  Make an accreditation recommendation.

Students benefit ultimately when the entire school is aligned and focused on a shared vision for student learning.   Additionally, the NCA seal provides an educational currency for a student that is recognized all over the world enabling access to special programs, scholarships and grants.

MICHIGAN MERIT EXAM INFORMATION

On March 11, 12 and 13, we will be administering the Michigan Merit Exam to all juniors.  This test is designed to measure a student’s proficiency in Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.   By taking this exam students may qualify for the Michigan Promise Scholarship and earn up to $4,000 for post-secondary education (i.e. college, trade or technical school).

In order to prepare our students for this exam, many of our teachers are including review problems into their lessons.  Next week, our counselors will be introducing our juniors to a free computerized MME review that they can do on line either at home or at school.  You may also wish to pay for review books*, workshops and private tutors.

We are requiring all juniors to take the MME.  You will receive a more detailed letter listing the exam dates.  If you have any questions, please contact your child’s counselor.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please call me at 248-586-8600 or email at hivory@ferndaleschools.org.

*Review books are also available to local libraries.

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