by Taylor Loving, Calin Ratlief and Abram Waller
The administration, led by new principal Ann Marie Seely, has five main goals for the school this year.
The goals include the use of 21st century teaching strategies, a decrease in out-of-school suspensions and increases in SOL pass rates, Advanced Placement test scores and AP class enrollment.
Overall, Mrs. Seely said she wants a stronger focus on academics and more structure.
“I think that you have an opportunity to get an outstanding public education here at this school, and it’s my job as a leader and our jobs as teachers and staff to make sure we send you out of here with a diploma that means something,” Mrs. Seely said.
Associate principal Robert Turpin III previously worked as an administrator at Hermitage High School. He said the administrative team works closely with teachers, parents and students.
“As a school community we pretty much come together to achieve our goals,” Mr. Turpin said.
The administration is also strictly enforcing the already existing dress code and the cell phone policy.
“They have been enforcing rules like crazy,” sophomore Erica Carroll said.
New administrative intern Domonique Butler, who formerly taught chemistry, said most people are adapting well to the change.
“The funny thing about it is, it’s only a few people who have a problem with the rules,” Ms. Butler said.
Senior Maria Alvarez said the new policies are getting students to focus more on schoolwork, and the administration is serious about getting things done.
“I think people really don’t have a choice. You either have to get with it or get over it,” Maria said.
School secretary Traci Evans has worked closely with the leadership team.
“They are trying to make this a better school overall,” Mrs. Evans said.
Coordinator of assessment and remediation Paige Lasky said school leadership has always been strong.
“I don’t see a difference other than new faces,” Ms. Lasky said.
Before accepting her position as principal, Mrs. Seely was an English teacher, the English specialist for the county and an associate middle school principal. She said her goal is to help students prepare for success in the future.
“I think high school has an amazing ability to shape who you are, if you let it,” Mrs. Seely said.
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