In reviewing our students' actions, behaviors and especially academia over the past two weeks, things look quite positive and ask everyone to continue this momentum as we provide that quality education environment second to none.
Want to speak to a few points addressing our master scheduling process to date and how we will be moving forward:
a) Challenges that we were experiencing where class sizes are low and then spikes to the 30's the following period are simply the result in not being able to offer additional sections to help support an equanimity schedule;
b) Our current teacher staffing is well below the student ratio of 27 -1 (in fact all classes should reflect an average of low 20's) and yet we remain victims to an antiquated bell schedule which will continue to challenge us;
c) With the recent new requirements in effect...... Algebra I minimum course for Math and Biology minimum for Science, other less rigorous courses can no longer be offered as a core resulting in some courses/periods having high numbers; and
d) Per BOE Policy 4540, we have that obligation to provide that required 25th credit to all students and that freshmen class affected will coming on board shortly.
On a go forward basis, two immediate actions:
1st) Mike Neubig, consultant with strong national knowledge in working with secondary schools schedules will be meeting with our faculty on Wednesday, August 24th; and
2nd) Will ask for volunteers to serve on the Bell Schedule Work Group to gather input and bring forth a proposal for consideration. Targeted time-frame is around October/November as the SY 2012-13 staffing and other operational costs must be finalized by the end of December 2011.
Important that we are all part of the solution in addressing our future in how our school will look like and operate over the next few years. Know that at the end of the day, we will do what's best for the students.
We are fortunate to be able to host three students and their advisor from our sister school in Ishigaki, Japan. Guests will be visiting classrooms from August 18th - 25th. Lillian Wadahara is doing the coordination and please inform your students that we are confident that they will display that ALOHA spirit.
Congratulations to Col Roberto Levoit as he was recently accepted into the Leadership Kauai program. Leadership Kauai offers a wide venue in working with the various outstanding and respected community leaders. Know that Roberto will be sharing what he has learned to further support our school in our quest for excellence.
Reminders:
Mon. - Aug. 15th: Principal @Smaller Learning Community mtg - Oahu
Wed. - Aug. 17th: Professional Learning Communities Meeting (all staff) 1:45 p.m. @Chorus Room. Continuing discussions/sharing on the anchor standards;
Thurs. - Aug. 18th: Club Fair during lunch recess @Cafeteria Lanai
Fri. - Aug. 19th: Holiday (Statehood) - No School
Thanks and have a great week!
Daniel S. Hamada
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