Believe, Become, Be More

“All human beings are born with unique gifts. The healthy functioning of our community depends on its capacity to develop each gift.” (Peter Senge)

Welcome to Springbank Community High School.  We are excited about the 2009-2010 School Year; a year sure to be filled with excellence in teaching and learning.   We are looking forward to working through this year as a community united in our goals.

At our first professional learning day, the staff took part in a three-year educational planning session.  The work was intense and a direction has been set for our school.  I am further proud to report that our School and Student Council have also set goals that align with school plans.  We will be sharing our journey with stakeholders throughout the year.

For our students, the next years will be where they truly become adults; ready to take on the next phase of their lives.  Our primary objective is to assist in the educational and social/emotional development of our young adults.  We are also committed to working with our most valuable partners; parents.  As parents, it is important to stay connected with your child even though they are exercising their independence.  It is also important to let your children make mistakes, giving them tools to fix them.  “It is in mistakes that we learn the most.”

High School can be the best years; they can be filled with exciting learning, memorable teachers, extra-curricular fun and meeting life-long friends.  It has been my experience that if you want the school year to be rewarding, the following things are worth pondering:

• Learning is what we are here for.  At Springbank we strive to make learning a rewarding experience.
• Goal setting is crucial for success in high school.  Learn how to set and monitor them.  You will be glad you did.
• Study hard.  This will help with reaching the goals you are looking to achieve. Remember the Greek Saying:

"Whatever is good to know is difficult to learn."

• Make good choices.  Remember you have the power to say no to things you don’t think are in your best interest.  Practice saying the word; it will help you to say it when you really need it.
• Ask lots of questions.  Otherwise, how will you know the answer?
• The staff at Springbank High is here for our students.  We are here to supervise their intellectual and social/emotional growth.   Using the various resources available can make the difference in the quality of the school experience.  These resources are available to all students when they are pondering the possibilities for their future or need assistance with other issues.  The guidance department is a valuable resource when our students are working through issues.
• Get involved in extra-curricular activities.  It helps young adults to be connected to school.  Research tells us that students who get involved do better in school and are happier.
• Make Friends.  Help someone who needs it.  Step out of comfort zones and invite new students to build a friendship.
• “We do not inherit the land, we borrow it from our children” (Native American saying).  Become civic and environmentally minded.
• Taking on leadership roles develops skills that benefit personally and professionally.

“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. “ (Ralph Waldo Emerson)