Back-to-School Letters from District 300 Administrative Staff

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Dear Parents, Family and Community Members:

I want to take a moment to introduce myself to you. As you may be aware, I am the new Principal at Du Quoin High School. I am honored that this community/school district has chosen me to lead the high school during this exciting time. Although I only started a few weeks ago, it is already apparent to me that this is a caring and welcoming environment. I am looking forward to working with the students, faculty and staff in the upcoming weeks and months.

I want you to know what to expect from me as your new high school principal. I will come to school every day prepared to do my job. I will treat everyone with respect- teachers, staff, students, parents, and community members. I will take responsibility for my actions and choices. I will do my best to ensure that students receive a quality education within a safe, respectful environment. Please feel free to contact me at the school with any questions, concerns, or just to introduce yourself. Working together only enhances your child's educational experiences.

As a matter of business, I ask that you please be understanding as we continue to deal with issues that come with the construction of a new building and the transition that will take place later in October (Columbus Day weekend is when the move is planned). Currently, we have one phone line at the high school and, while we do have an answering machine for messages, there are currently no voice mailboxes for individual staff members. Our office staff will do their best to handle all incoming phone calls and relay messages to the appropriate people. We appreciate your patience.

One matter regarding a change in policy also deserves attention. The Student-Parent Handbook Committee proposed a change regarding the cell phone/MP3 player policy which has been adopted. The handbook now states that:"Cellular telephones, IPODS and other communication devices are prohibited from use during class time unless authorized and approved by the Administration or supervising faculty member. Students should shut off their phones prior to entering the classroom."

In other words, the appropriate use of cell phones and MP3 players is allowed outside of class time, such as during lunch or passing periods. This change provides an opportunity for Du Quoin High School students to demonstrate responsibility and respect by using these devices in an appropriate way and at an appropriate time. At no time should these devices interfere with the operation of the school day, the safety of the school, or the educational environment of the school. We ask that parents assist us in teaching the meaning of this policy. The inappropriate use of these devices will continue to result in the consequences set forth in the handbook.

The Extended Learning Time period will also continue to evolve at the high school as we look to provide additional instruction to students in the priority areas of reading, writing and math. These core areas continue to be vital to students who look to either earn additional education beyond high school or enter the work force right away. We also hope to offer additional opportunities for students during this time as the school year progress as well.

I am looking forward to the 2012-2013 school year! It will be our goal to make this school year the best that it can be and with teamwork from school employees, parents, community members and students, we will accomplish our goal.

If you have any questions, concerns or comments concerning Du Quoin High School, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Matthew Hickam, Principal

Du Quoin High School