Ellenville Junior/Senior High School and P-TECH Academy students in Grades 7-12 officially kicked off the first of several Class Meetings they will have with teachers and administrators throughout the year. The first order of business was a big welcome and an introduction to new staff members: English as a New Language (ENL) teacher Ms. Costigan; Spanish teacher Ms. Galindo-Garcia; P-TECH counselor Mr. Paulsen, Grades 7 and 8 Assistant Principal Mr. Regan, and Director of Athletics Mr. Salamone. Formal introductions were also given for Main Office and Support Staff so students will know who they can reach out to for different kinds of help.
Teachers and administrators shared some tips on how to be successful throughout the school year and reviewed the new Positive Behavioral Incentive System (PBIS) in which students could earn rewards for demonstrating positive behavior. Students enjoyed watching their teachers and administrators acting out skits to demonstrate how someone could be "Caught Being Good" or for being "On Point," two ways to earn rewards. A motivational video titled “Perseverance and Grit: the Power of Your Mindset” allowed students to think about who in their lives is their "Go To," a person who is there for them when they need some motivation or help. Students were encouraged to utilize that person as much as possible in meeting the challenges of school life, including grade requirements, attendance expectations, and even proper conduct in and out of school.
Expectations were set high for a successful school year, but emphasis was also placed on the multitude of resources students have right at their fingertips—whether it be a teacher, coach, administrator, counselor, family member, or friend—to make it happen. Students heard directly from faculty about the academic expectations required to graduate on time. Teachers and administrators also discussed additional topics, such as how to get involved in extracurricular activities and clubs at the Junior/Senior High School.
Best of luck, everyone!
