September 2009

Dear North Shore Students and Parents

For parents, students, and teachers, each September brings with it the anticipation of a new school year. While the perspectives are different – there is no doubt that for each of us “the first days” are ones full of questions, excitement, and anxiety. I have always been inspired by the optimism of new beginnings, the freshness of renewed energy, and the hope that the future will be better. With complete sincerity, I am so very excited to welcome you back to school. The summer at the High School was full of activity. Our grounds, custodial and secretarial crews have wonderfully prepared the building for the coming year. In fact, a majority of the high school now has new ceilings and lighting. Textbooks have been ordered, more Smartboards have been installed, and classrooms have been polished and cleaned in anticipation of the new year. Our school is brighter and cleaner than ever before. In addition to the improvements made to the spaces in our school, many curriculum projects were completed. Teachers and Directors have developed curriculum in an effort to ensure it challenges and inspires students. One exciting project has been the development and refinement of the Ninth Grade Experience (NGE) by a team of teachers under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent Rob Chlebicki and Director of Science Dr. Carol Smyth. The NGE begins its first year this fall. In addition to welcoming our students back to school, the High School is proud to welcome over 20 new and returning teachers and administrators to the building, including Assistant Principals Jennifer Imperiale and Kevin Kurrus. Collectively the entire faculty and staff are tremendously eager to get to know the community, welcome students, and create learning experiences that challenge students to think deeply, care passionately, and work to their own personal potential. Please feel encouraged to communicate with your High School. Only through honest dialog will we each be in the position to best support and meet the needs of the students. Refer to the directory located on the High School homepage to make a connection with your child’s teacher, counselor, school administrator, or curriculum Director. In turn, please know that I am personally dedicated to making myself open and available to hear directly from you and to share with you what is taking place at the school. Weekly emails containing student events and information will be sent each Friday. If you have not received any emails from the High School in the past month, please call our technology department at 277-7050. Also, you are invited and encouraged to attend the first meeting of the High School PTSA on Tuesday evening, September 15th at 8:00 p.m. in the HS Alumni Room. At this meeting, you will be able to meet me, Mr. Kurrus, Ms. Imperiale, and the class advisors. Our annual Back to School Night will take place the following Wednesday, September 23rd, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Enjoy the hope and optimism of a new school year, Albert Cousins Principal North Shore High School