A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS: DR DEMPSEY

Dear Parents:

At this time of the year we hear the famous term “Senioritis.” It refers to a lackadaisical behavior on the part of high school seniors concerning their studies and behavior. The characteristics of this” national disease” include: skipping classes, not turning in homework, doing a shoddy job on academic assignments, dropping classes for which they registered, uncharacteristic disrespect toward adults, having too many absences for certain classes and a variety of other behaviors. The general theme is that I am at the end of my high school career and what can people do to me?  I have been accepted to college and high school is now a thing of the past. A general disrespect can exist. Sound familiar? This is not unusual behavior but has its ramifications and consequences.

This does not happen with all seniors! Many are conscientious until the end and are working toward preparing for college. But for those who are bitten by the bug, they put themselves in a situation whereby poor decisions can influence their future. Some ramifications can be:

                 -Colleges have been known to rescind acceptances and scholarships based on a poor senior year performance (this does not happen often, but why take  the chance?)

                -Students who previously had no problems with classes have been known to fail a course or courses which are needed for graduation. Years ago a senior (at a different school) was in the top 5 of his class. He failed a required course and caused some traumatic times for himself and his family.

                -A term called regressive effort is used in some schools. (Possibly at SHA in the future) What this means is that even though the student has the grades to pass, if she blows off the 2nd semester and/or 4th quarter, she could not pass the course, thus affecting graduation. This is especially significant in Religion. Failing that course, which is not a traditional summer school offering can cause some serious problems regarding the student’s future.

The general theme is why put ourselves in that situation? All  the situations listed above are avoidable. Here at Sacred Heart, we want the best for our young ladies as they prepare for the next phase of their lives. As a parent we ask you to talk with your senior so that no one falls into this type of predicament. Especially when it is avoidable. We want all 122 seniors to graduate on June 11 and celebrate as they go on with the next phase of their lives. Your help in promoting this with your senior is appreciated and onward to June.

                                                                                                                                                                Sincerely,

                                                                                                                                                                James R. Dempsey Ed.D

Director of Academics

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