Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Sum...Sum...Summertime


Three weeks back from one of the best trips ever, it is good to get refocused on what is happening at Faith.  And a lot is happening.  The track looks brand new after a resurfacing. By the time school starts, our entire campus should be enclosed with fencing, which includes some security upgrades to the gates. Work has begun on the outdoor court areas to make them suitable for tennis practices.  The front office has new carpeting (which some people like and others think belongs in a casino). We are providing an outdoor set construction area for the drama department.  The art patio has been made more secure.  New lighting has been installed in the gym, library and cafeteria.


(At the forum in Pompeii)

We are working diligently on readying our roll-out of Apple Macs to the class of 2013.  Please check the school's website for details. Next week Mr. Orr and I will be traveling to Boston for the Building Learning Communities Conference sponsored by November Learning, one of the premier organizations in the country that supports transitioning to student centered, project-based schools that teacher higher order thinking skills.  Not surprisingly, technology plays a critical role in accomplishing that transition.

Hiring is complete.  We are excited to say hello to nine new teachers who bring a varied set of experiences to our school.

We have changed drug testing companies.  We are now working with American Toxicological Inc., a local company that will provide us with faster results at less expense.  That last point means we will be able to add 1-2 more rounds of random testing.


(At the entrance to the ancient Olympic Village)

Enrollment continues to look positive for the fall.  Currently over 1330 student are registered.  With the economy in the state it is in, that number is likely to go down.  While we have long waiting lists in grades 7 & 8.  Space may be available in other grades.  Contact Mrs. Carol Neal if you need specific information about enrolling a student.