FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS, DR DEMPSEY

I thank everyone for your warm welcome to SHA.  It has been an interesting time getting to know new people, a new system and coming back to my private, Catholic school roots after a 33-year hiatus in public education. It has been enjoyable.

     My observations thus far have included a number of positive items, all of which lead to Sacred Heart already being a very good place for teaching and learning.  The trust factor is high, students and staff are on task all day, Regents exam results are very good, leadership activities abound, spiritual activities are prominent and students are respectful. Curriculum is in place and teachers give students these expectations in writing.  Students seem to be very serious about their total education. It is a safe and orderly place for students to learn.  SHA has much of which to be proud.

     I have and continue to meet with Department Chairpersons, students, parents, the School Planning Team and the Education and Student Life committee.  Based on my initial conversations with many of these shareholders, and the school’s mission and vision  statements, our academic direction is: In compliance with safety and order, to create a learning and teaching situation where trust and communication are prominent, and to promote a positive and rigorous learning situation the following is important:

1.  SHA is committed to providing a comprehensive, balanced & challenging Catholic education  rooted in the core values of the Franciscan  tradition.

2.  Excellence in education is a commitment to taking rigorous courses aiming for 85% or a “B” as a minimum grade, and to pursue a Regent Diploma with Distinction (or better) is expected.

3.  In conjunction with the nature of Catholicism, activities including service to others, positive ethics, integrity and the strong sense of self and community areare fostered through a wide range of curricular and co-curricular activities.

4.  Life skills and leadership activities will still be a way of life in promoting a well-rounded and rigorous education.    

     In the very near future I will be talking with many school groups and asking questions regarding student privileges, seniors leaving the building during study halls, course drop and add practices and the number of study halls scheduled for upper-class women. The responses will help guide our future practices. Any parent who wishes to discuss, clarify questions or give input to these issues may contact Dr. James Dempsey, Director of Academics at 834-2101 ext. 308.

     I look forward to meeting you and working with you to provide a situation where your daughter is prepared to advance to the next phase of her life after high school.  My best to everyone.

                                                                                                                                Sincerely,

                                                                                                                                James R. Dempsey

                                                                                                                                Director of Academics

                                                                                                                                834-2101, Ext. 308

Reminder: February 8th from 5:00-7:00 p.m., you can meet with your child’s teachers.  Please call 834-2101 ext.302 to make an appointment.

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