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Joe Schwan, MS/HS Principal
•  The 2012-2013 school year is off to a rapid start and there is no sign that it will slow down in the weeks to come.  One of the many strengths of our school is the high level of involvement in activities from our students.  Numerous studies are available to show the strong positive correlation between involvement in co-curricular activities and student academic achievement, positive self-esteem, and expanded leadership skills.  The month of October will mark the end of the boys and girls soccer seasons as well as the football and volleyball regular seasons.  Our marching band will compete in two competitions and our All-State Chorus members will perform in Rapid City at the end of the month.  Please check the school calendar for specific dates and times of all school-related events.
•  We realize, however, that balancing school work, family commitments, church activities, and school activities can be challenging for students.  Communication between students, parents, teachers, and administrators can help students to stay caught up and on top of their studies.  I would encourage each parent to establish clear expectations with their children regarding school work and grades and have regular conversations about the progress towards meeting those expectations.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child's academic progress, be sure to contact your child's teachers without hesitation to help remedy the situation.  Academic achievement truly is a joint effort between the school, the students, and the parents.
•  I wish to wrap up this month's newsletter by sharing with everyone our most recent report on students' ACT scores.  From the graduating class of 2012, the average ACT score for English was 23.2 compared to the state average of 21.0; the average math score was 24.4 compared to the state average of 21.8; the average reading score was 24.0 compared to the state average of 22.1; the average science score was 23.7 compared to the state average of 22.0; and the average composite was 24.0 compared to the state average of 21.8.  This is truly an impressive set of data and clearly shows that our students graduated ready for college or their careers.  Congratulations to the students, teachers, and parents for your efforts.  The payoff is great!
•  If you have questions or concerns that arise throughout the year, please contact me.  Even though we may not always agree, our goal is ultimately the same and that is to empower our students to make the most of themselves.
•  Sincerely, Joe Schwan

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