FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS DR. JAMES DEMPSEY

Several items as we approach the end of the first quarter:

-Positive attendance is extremely important. Research has shown that in most cases, the better the attendance, the better the grade point average.

-Chemistry and Physics are a focus this year. We have been doing well with regard to passing rates but want to improve upon the mastery rates (85% and above).

-55% of all Regents exams taken in June 2008 scored at the mastery level. That is an increase from 46% in 2007.

-When I promote the phrase “strive for 85”, it means 85 is the minimum grade we should seek. Doing 100% or “A” is always the goal.

-Our Regents exam results for June 2008 were:

-100% of the class of 2008 earned Regents diplomas while 74% earned Advanced Regents diplomas.

-We are getting better with constant room for improvement.

-Dropping Classes: Just a reminder of the practice of dropping
classes. The scheduling process is not taken lightly and
changes will not be easy. Once the school year begins, schedule changes
will be made for only programmatic reasons. Programmatic changes
include: class misplacement, not being enrolled in enough classes,
missing lunch, missing required classes, course failure. A course may be
added however at any time if space is available. All requests for changes must be approved through the Director of Academics.

Chemistry/Physics Focus: One of the primary goals this year is to
provide remediation for students in both Chemistry and Physics. Should a
student score below 75 on a major assessment, she and her teacher will
organize an action plan to help improve the grade. It can include
working with the specific teacher or working in TLC to help improve the
grade. Mr. Gallagher, Mr. Stepien and Sr. Mara are implementing this
plan. Any questions, please contact the individual teachers at 834-2101 for specifics regarding your child.

-Any questions, feel free to call me at 834-2101 ext 308.

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