last day

Usually, I'm super excited for the school year to end because it's a stressful time for everyone.  Students are checked-out, and it's a daily battle to get them to lift their heads off the table, turn their iPods off, and put their phones away.  I feel more like a cheerleader, "Ok, let's get this done!  Last chapter, whoohoo!" Each day my enthusiasm wanes, my patience and tolerance fade, and I watch both the clock and the calendar.

This year, I'm feeling more reflective about what it means to teach in an alternative school, and the meaningful work being done.

FCHS 2012 graduation

"Here are some interesting facts. Nine years ago, the graduation rate for then Mt. Cove High School was 28%. Over the next few years, staff and administrators worked with students and parents to improve the rate so more students would successfully enter the world after high school. In 2008, the rate was almost double that of 2003, at 54%. I am happy to report that, due to the efforts of staff, parents, and students at Frank Church High School, the graduation rate last year from FCHS was 74%, and that we expect it to be even higher for the class of 2012. Congratulations."  --- Dr. Don Coberly, superintendent, FCHS graduation 5/25/12

I am proud of my very small contribution to this effort.  To see kids, who really struggle with personal issues or who drove me crazy 4 years ago as freshmen, graduate is an awesome reward.