At Sidney High School the main emphasis will always be quality classroom instruction and I feel confident that our teachers provide all students the opportunity to learn. I would like to mention a few of the new happenings at the High School that are being implemented at this time.
First, we have taken on the goal of improving scores on the ACT Test which has become the most recognized national test for gauging how ready students are for a college education. We are considering things like class schedule, graduation requirements, and teacher strengths so that we can effectively move toward achieving this goal. We have also started to offer an ACT course which will focus on the keys to being successful on the ACT test. Tyler Shaw and Kinley Hadden are the coordinators for this course which I feel will assist the students in achieving their goals on the ACT test. We are pleased with the initial results of our ACT improvement plans. The students at Sidney High School showed great improvement on last years ACT test results which were well above the state average.
Second, we are in the beginning stages of the induction of Personalized Learning Plans. P.L.S.'s will help the student take ownership in their own education by setting goals, focusing on their interests and looking at their strengths. Our first year was a moderate sucess and we will build from our experiences. Research shows that when we empower students with making good decisions on their own behalf positive things will happen. James McGown and Brandon Ross are in the process of setting up the formalized plan. This year our counseling staff will meet with every student individually during the school year to set up their P.L.P.
Third, we are beginning our second year in taking part in the "On-line Testing" procedure for the state standards that we must cover during your student's educational years. The teachers have received training and Arica Lococo will continue as our test coordinator. The students that have been tested thus far are doing very well. With our inaugural year over, one of our main goals will be to continue to focus on the academic standards required by the state. As the Principal, I know from past experience that this is not an easy process to administer. I am happy and thankful that we are progressing so well in this area.
Sincerely,
Jay Ehler
