October 21, 2008

 

Dear Parent,

 

I hope the enclosed first quarter report card indicates that your child had a successful start to the 2008-09 school year. As you review the report card keep in mind that quarter grades are not final grades. The first and second quarter grades will contribute to a first semester grade that will be recorded on you student’s transcript. It is a good time to discuss the first semester grades your student hopes to achieve and the steps needed to attain them.

 

With each quarter I will send a newsletter that will hopefully keep you updated. As you may recall, Amador High School was granted a three year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) at the end of the 2006-07 school year. Amador will again be evaluated for accreditation in the spring of the 2009-10 school year. While the WASC committee cited several strengths it also recommended the following general areas for improvement:

1.      Increase student achievement

2.      Create a positive learning environment

 

We are encouraged and proud of students’ significant increase in academic achievement, as evidenced on our Academic Performance Index (API). The Academic Performance Index is the most comprehensive measure of our schools academic performance. While Amador has improved its API score each of the last five years, we are particularly excited that we improved by 27 points last year. Our current score of 788 places Amador higher than any school in the Mother Lode League and amongst the highest in the region.

 

While our academic achievement is a growing source of pride, there is also progress in creating a more positive learning environment. Thanks to our students and maintenance staff, our campus is cleaner and more attractive.  We also have several landscaping and campus beautification projects planned for this year. The rise of school pride is also apparent in more spirited rallies and increased student attendance at athletic events, dances, and performances. We are especially pleased by the level of involvement of our current senior class.

 

Our goal at Amador High School is to provide the highest quality academic, technical/career, and extracurricular programs possible. It is our hope that your child takes advantage of these opportunities. As always, I welcome your input. You can reach me at avanvelzen@amadorcoe.k12.ca.us 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Al Van Velzen