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

The time of the year is fast approaching that will involve the planning for the 2009-2010 school year. I am presently working on the Curriculum Guide that will be available in February 2009 as your daughter chooses her courses for the next school year. In  early anticipation of that, I ask you to be aware of  information which we hope can be a guide for you.

#1. We take the scheduling process very seriously as both student futures and financial decisions are made based on class schedule tallies from the course selection process.

#2. We are a college prep institution. We are striving to provide the skills needed for college success.

#3. We push students to strive for 85 as a minimum on all tests and assignments, take the rigorous courses for which you qualify and to seek advanced diplomas. The new guide will have more information regarding advanced diplomas as an aspect of student expectations. 85 is the new 65.

#4. Next year we will offer college courses and in Spanish,  French and Math in which tuition is paid but college credit is offered through Niagara University or Daemen College.

#5. Latin will be offered to interested students.

#6. Seniors will be encouraged to take more rigorous courses in preparation for college.

#7. Once the school year starts, dropping courses will be very difficult and rare.

#8. If your daughter struggles with a course, this is not bad. Hard work can be a little stressful but is better in the long run for growth. Students will struggle with some courses both at SHA and in college.

#9. Science will be offering two semester courses in Physics and Chemistry that will be prerequisites for Science electives.

College competition is keen and acceptance is competitive. The better your child does academically, the better the chance of attending the college of her choice. More information regarding course selection will be available in February.

Merry Christmas to all and a Joyous New Year wish to you and your families.

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