A SEPTEMBER  2007 MESSAGE FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS: DR DEMPSEY

As we enter a new SCHOOL year, there is a new optimism to an already positive school atmosphere. From an academic point of view the message is simple: the world expects everyone to TRY, just as we expect students, teachers and administrators to do the same. The items included in the basic theme are to strive for 85% as a minimum grade on all work, take rigorous courses and seek advanced Regents diplomas.  While respecting the rights of others in the Franciscan tradition.

Items of note that we encourage students to pursue include: maintaining a positive attendance rate, be prompt and seek mastery (85% minimum) of the course content and skills. Work hard but also smart, pay attention to deadlines and get involved in your school. Enjoy the time you have with your friends as it is over all too soon and get involved in your school. To our seniors we ask them to be leaders in the school by being role models and guardians to the underclasswomen.

Of course there are a few don’ts of which we must remind students. Cell phones during the school day are not allowed, do not put yourself in a position where regressive effort causes course failure and don’t get lax in your academic effort. Privileges are just that and appropriate use of them will allow seniors to keep them. We have every confidence that the behavior will be appropriate and the traditions can continue.

The final bit of advice we offer is to ALWAYS give your best effort. Colleges, employers and people in other employing making positions will be making decisions about our students based on their transcript, recommendations from school personnel, leadership activities, service to others and other extra curricular activities. The better the record, the more likely SHA students will be accepted. Now is the time to build that resume in a positive fashion. Remember too that enrolling in the easier course, when students have the ability to take the more demanding course is not looked upon positively by colleges.

We wish everyone the best to have positive and interesting days at SHA.

Sincerely,

James R. Dempsey Ed.D

Director of Academics

P.S. -All of my previous articles can be seen on my website.

       -If anyone would like to hear my thoughts on specific topics, please let me know and       it can be included in future issues.

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