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Written by Sean M. Martinson
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Thursday, 08 November 2007 |
Dear Parents:
We have had a great start to the 2007-2008 school year. Our sports teams have been very successful and there are many new initiatives in progress to allow all students to achieve academically. The purpose of my letters this year will be to inform you about school change and what the DRHS staff is doing to improve test scores, to challenge all students and to create a more welcoming school environment for students and families. The staff and administration at Deer River High School are committed to get more parents involved in their child’s education.
Parents have more opportunities than ever before to connect with teachers and to access student information. The electronic age allows parents and students to access information during the day, at night and on weekends through parent portal (Infinite Campus). Contact Jan Swanson in the District office to get your personal user name and password. There has been a big push this year to have students take more responsibility for tracking grades and missing assignments during advisory. Students are getting many opportunities to access parent portal and get help from teachers during advisory.
Attendance and parental involvement are two of the most important indicators that equates to student achievement and higher tests scores. Students need to be in school to learn and utilize every minute in the classroom. I would like to encourage parents to always consider other options before removing a student from school. I would also like to invite parents to visit school to see what is happening. Set expectations high for your child and expect them to set goals academically and professionally. Students need constant reminders about why school is important, to believe in themselves and to set their goals high.
I read an interesting article the other day that discussed how subtle changes in life style can make a huge difference on student achievement. Listed below are four suggestions the article put forth. Provides some good food for thought.
1. Turn off the TV/video games. How many times do we have the TV on just to have it on. Pick certain shows to watch (in moderation) then turn the TV off.
2. Eat with your children. Provides a great opportunity to build communication.
3. Read to your child, read with your child or read while your child is reading.
4. Talk to your child’s teacher and get involved.
In my next letter I want to let you know about the connections DRHS is making with technical and community colleges across Northeast Minnesota as well as on-line and ITV opportunities. There are tremendous opportunities at Deer River High School.
My door is always open and you are always invited,
Brent Colligan
Principal
Deer River High School
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Last Updated ( Monday, 12 November 2007 )
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