Fresh Focus

Sap buckets in the maple trees on Mouse Lane are always a sure sign that Spring is here and so is “scheduling season”.  And with scheduling season come lots of very good questions.  What is the minimum number of credits I can take? (6)  What is the maximum number of credits I can take? (8)  Do I really need to take Phys. Ed. to graduate? (YES!)  Can I take Pottery 1? (Only if you have taken and passed Art Fundamentals first.)

However, by far, the most common question is, “What is “Honors?”   English, Science and Social Studies as well as upperclassmen Math classes all offer the choice of a college preparatory level or an Honors level.  So who should take an Honors level class?

Honors classes work at an advanced level.  Depending on what the subject matter is, that may look like a faster pace, more in depth inquiry, heavier reading level, or an advanced writing level, to name a few.

So, the successful Honors student is generally someone who enjoys learning and the challenges learning brings.  They want to be successful.  They are motivated and independent workers who can take on an assignment, manage it successfully and turn it in on time with little or no prodding from their teacher or parent/guardian.  If they don’t understand a concept, they seek help from their teacher.  They are responsible for their learning and accountable for its outcome.

Now, the reality is that not every successful Honors student exemplifies all of these traits, all of the time.  However, it is safe to say based on years of observation, that Honors students possess a combination of these traits most of the time and if they have a weakness in a particular area, they work on it.

What do you think?  Does that sound like you???