As the school year comes to a close, I want to share a few thoughts about empowering our students. Throughout the year, we have worked diligently to provide young adults opportunities for reflection and growth. 

Most recently, a few dozen students attended a Young Women’s Leadership Conference where the keynote speaker was Dr. Tiffany Russell, an author and researcher whose focus is personal narratives. These narratives, she believes, are the foundation of any research and teaching enterprise that endeavor to make sense of the world and one’s place within it.

In March, we hosted photographer Eunique Jones, whose “Because of Them, We Can” movement inspires students to pursue their dreams while keeping in mind the work and sacrifice of others.

Earlier in the year, speaker, educator, and community builder Calvin Terrell spent time talking about tolerance and fortitude with students, parents, and staff. 

We planned each of these programs because we believe that empowering students is the key to our future, as empowered youth are more likely to be engaged in their communities. We look forward to offering more such programs next year.

Each of our students has a lot to offer. While they have all arrived at this point in high school in different ways – some with relative ease and others with a bit of a struggle — their potential is limitless. The pursuit of a better world — striving for equity, truth, and fairness – requires students who have strong critical thinking skills and are confident in their abilities.

As a school we have dedicated resources to providing opportunities for students to get support in various areas. Some of our most recent work has involved freshmen in Algebra I and Physical Science. Over the past three months members of the Math Department offered Saturday sessions to students who struggled with Algebra I during the first semester. Over 90 percent of the students enrolled in this program were successful in improving their first semester math grade. While all grades are important, student performance in Algebra I is critical, as it sets the foundation for Algebra II, the gateway to success in college mathematics. We are pleased to be able to offer targeted support based on needs determined by data and I want to commend the teachers and students involved in this program. 

We offered a similar opportunity for students struggling in Physical Science. During the month of May, students struggling in that course were invited to attend after school sessions in order to improve their skills and increase their class grades. Again, the participation rate was high and the participants were successful. 

As a school, our goal is to ensure that all graduates of MHS are college and career ready. College and career readiness requires a high level of skill, confidence, and engagement. We will continue to implement programs that support academic and social-emotional growth, as we believe strong public schools lead to strong vibrant communities.

Sincerely,

Matt Geary

Principal