August 2003
Dear Parent/Guardian of a GHS Student,
The school year has begun quite smoothly. We are still within the first week of school so some class leveling will be continuing through next week. We are sorry for any schedule changes which need to take place. We promise to have the changes completed as soon as possible.
Early Graduation - 18 Credit Option - See Enclosed Letter
Enclosed is a very important letter from Dr. Long, Pasco County Superintendent. The letter outlines credit options which are available for graduation from high school. Traditionally, students have had a 4 year 24 credit curriculum which led to a high school diploma. Beginning this year, there will be additional options which will lead to a high school diploma. It is important that parents and students carefully review the letter. If after reading the letter you are interested in learning more about these options, you are invited to attend one of the parent information sessions. Attached to the letter is a form which needs to be returned to the GHS Guidance Office.School Advisory Council (SAC)
Also enclosed is a pamphlet outlining the role of the School Advisory Council. This group meets monthly and usually has their meetings at 6:00 P.M. If you are interested in being a part of the the GHS School Advisory Council (SAC) please call Mrs. Lucy DeCubellis, my secretary, at 774-3302. If there are a number of interested parties it may be necessary to hold an election at the annual Open House (September 22). If the number of responses is small everyone will be asked to serve.
Academic Improvement Plans (AIP)
Some students, who have not performed well on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT), have been identified as not meeting minimum standards and, therefore, will be receiving additional academic assistance through the state mandated Academic Improvement Plan (AIP) program. If your child is to be a part of this effort, you will be notified through the mail. At our upcoming Open House (Monday, September 22), we will have a special meeting of all parents whose child(ren) has(have) been identified. We want to do all we can to involve parents in this special group of students' school life. Our efforts are a part of our Literacy Plan and our school theme - Linking Resources to Improve Student Achievement.
Additional Items Of Interest & Importance
Marchman Technical Education Center Open House - Tuesday, September 16 - 6:30P.M.
Progress Reports - Mid-Quarter Progress Reports for all students will be distributed on Wednesday, September 10.
Open House - Monday, September 22 - 6:00 P.M. Special AIP meeting (see above) with the general meeting at 7:00 P.M.
PSAT - Preliminary Scholastic Achievement Test - This is an optional test, but is recommended, for any student (Grades 9 -11) who will be seeking post-high school education. Based upon scores from the 11th grade test students may qualify for scholarship money. We encourage any 9th - 11th grade students who is college-bound to take this test. There is an $11.00 fee to take the test. Important PSAT Dates: September 17 - Selected students will receive information; September 25 - $11.00 is due; October 21 - the test will be administered.
Note: The SAT or ACT (students are encouraged to take both) are the tests used to qualify students for Florida Bright Futures and one (depending upon the university) or the other is also a part of the college admissions process)
PLAN Test - This evaluation will be given to all Sophomores (no fee) during the week of September 22. The results give a projection of how well the student might perform in college and there is also an interest inventory which relates to the 12 career clusters. There will be a separate mailing from guidance and the Career Specialist about the PLAN test.
Senior Graduation Plan - On Friday, September 5 the guidance department will be meeting with all Senior English classes to complete the Senior Graduation Plan. This document gives specific information about what the student needs to complete in order to participate in the May (2004) graduation. Parents are certainly welcome to attend this presentation. A copy of the completed plan will be mailed to the parent of each student who completes a plan.
Class Meetings - On August 25, 28, and 29 the administration along with others will meet with small groups of students to review policies and expectations. These meetings are held each period of the day. If parents wish to attend any one of these meetings they are welcome. Sign in through the main office.
Homecoming - Week of October 6 - There will be many events and the week will be very busy. The Homecoming Dance will be held on Saturday, October 11.
Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) - The next administration of the FCAT will be the week of October 6. This will be for any Seniors and Juniors who have not yet passed the test.
Adult Education - Our Adult and Community Education classes will begin on August 25. It is important that students who are behind in credits, are seeking grade improvement, or need a class not available during the regular school day take advantage of this opportunity. Please contact the student's guidance counselor or call 774-3309 for information. (Counselors: Last Names A-H Mrs. Catterson - Last Names I-Q Mrs. Lengell - Last Names R-Z Mrs. Kelley)A special public thank you is in order for our Guidance Department for all of the additional hours they have put in. Theirs is often a thankless job. Please know the counselors have a case load of approximately 475 students each. The guidance phone number is 774-3330. Parent conferences are scheduled through guidance.
I do hope your child is off to a good start. The high school years can be very challenging. Please remember your continued interest in your child's education will make all the difference in how well he/she does. My staff is here to assist. Please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Thomas E. Imerson
Principal
Enclosures: Dr. Long's letter, SAC Pamphlet
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