December Academic Update
We are reaching the midpoint of the quarter, it's time to reflect on the progress made so far and look ahead to the remainder of the semester which ends on January 17, 2024.
I want to commend each of our students for their hard work and dedication to their studies. Your efforts are truly appreciated, and we recognize the commitment you've shown to your education.
Midmarks are a snapshot of your academic journey, and they offer valuable insights into your strengths and areas for growth. We are
Whether your grades exceed expectations or there's room for improvement, remember that they don't define you. Instead, they provide an opportunity for reflection and a chance to make any necessary adjustments moving forward.
For those of you who are excelling, congratulations! Your diligence is paying off, and we encourage you to maintain the momentum. Continue to engage with your studies, ask questions, and make the most of the resources available to you.
If mid-mark grades aren't as high as you hoped, please know that you're not alone. We understand that everyone faces unique challenges, and we are here to support you. Reach out to your teachers, counselors, or any support services available. It's never too late to seek assistance and turn things around.
Families, your support is crucial during this time. Encourage open communication with your students about their academic experiences. Together, we can create a supportive environment that fosters success.
Remember, education is a journey filled with opportunities for growth and learning. Use this moment as a stepping stone toward achieving your goals. If there's anything you need or if you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help.
Pathways to Graduation
Communication of the Pathways and your child's status in this graduation expectation is a priority. We have communicated in multiple forums to help all stakeholders understand the importance of meeting both the Act 158 Credit Pathways and 23 Credits to be considered a Norristown Area School District Graduate.
Our Gear Up Program has worked with our current Juniors and Seniors to meet the Act 158 Expectations. Through individual counseling, academic support and exposure for college and career readiness experiences, students are moving through the pathways and towards graduation.
Instructional support teachers are preparing our student body for Keystone Exams. Keystone performance gives access to two of the five Act 158 pathways . Students are encouraged to work with their counselors as they navigate all the graduation expectations.
PA Keystone Exam Window (1 month away!)
Winter Schedule
Wednesday, January 3, 2024 Literature Keystone Exam Module 1
Thursday, January 4, 2024 Literature Keystone Exam Module 2
Friday, January 5, 2024 Algebra Keystone Exam Module 1
Monday, January 8, 2024 Algebra Keystone Exam Module 2
Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Biology Keystone Exam Module 1
Wednesday, January 10, 2024 Biology Keystone Exam Module 2
Thursday, January 11, 2024 Make-Ups
Friday, January 12, 2024 Make- Ups
PFC Recap
A huge thank you to our NAHS PFC. Recently the band of parents created multiple events that have enriched our school and community. Monday our PFC hosted a joint meeting of (Roosevelt and Main campus) at the Norristown Library. Once there, we shared videos highlighting the various ways that we use Title I funds to support parent engagement. We extended our conversation and shared the best ways to stay in communication within our respective buildings ( School Website, Infinite Campus App, e-mail and phone messages). Our goal is to have Quarterly meetings in-person at different locations easily accessible to our community. The next PFC Meeting will be virtual using Zoom ( NAHS Parent Faculty Club Zoom)
Our PFC provided the NAHS faculty an amazing meal to our teachers just prior to parent conferences which were scheduled from 3:30 PM to 7 PM on Tuesday 11/22/2023. We were so happy to be supported by not only the PFC, but the meal was created by our CMTHS program students. This made the considerate gesture even more meaningful.
Thank you Norristown Area High School PFC for being a great partner in supporting our school community!
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November Employees of the Month
Here's what people are saying about them:
- Janet makes me smile every day and I am so thankful to have her as a colleague and friend to talk to. Even when things might get crazy around here, we figure out a way to fix or laugh about it. Whenever I have a question about school, she is the first person I go to as she usually has the answer. Janet is always willing to help and tries to make sure everyone is doing well. NAHS is a better place with her here.
- Janet cares about the kids. She cares about the math department. She cares about the school. She deserves to be recognized for all the work she puts in to make this school an awesome place to work and learn.
- Ed is a pillar of the community here at NAHS. he goes above and beyond to help students that do not speak English. His ability to communicate fluently in Spanish makes him one of the most trusted staff members we have especially as a regular ed non EL teacher. A lot of our Spanish speaking students do not have trusted adults they can communicate with so having Mr Silva in the hallways or in their history class is a huge relief for them. His efforts to go above and beyond to make sure those students feel welcomed at NAHS is often overlooked.
- Ed goes above and beyond with his Spanish speaking students. He teaches his classes in both Spanish and English. This may seem easy, but it is actually very difficult and quite taxing. He is also teaching himself French to help our French speaking students
November Students of the Month
Congratulations to our November Students of the Month
Ninth Graders: Cora Carlin, Uriel Abreo-Trejo, Winnee Phan
Tenth Graders: Clarissa Rico Osorio, Fabian Rodriguez, Diana Espinosa
Eleventh Graders: Zahmere Payne, Marely Cruz, Taylor Trapp
Twelfth Graders: Eduardo Trejo-Jimenez, Madeline Alway, Juan Reynoso
Tutor.com A Tool for Academic Support
The Norristown Area School District has recently invested in the resource known as tutor.com. This service allows students 24/7 Access to an live tutor online to support their learning and academic growth. Tutor,com will be one of many TIER 1 (available for all students to access) Academic Interventions .
No Outdoor Masks In the School Building
As it gets colder, we understand that students may wear masks to stay warm. However, these masks (pictured) are NOT appropriate for indoors. We will ask students to remove these mask in the building. If students are concerned with protection from airborne germs, we permit wearing medical masks.
Flexible Instructional Days (FID)
Flexible Instruction Days are used in cases of inclement weather or situations in which the building is unable to support students. Parents and students will receive notification from the school or district. Mr. Dormer recently shared a message about (FID) Please use closed caption button for Spanish translations). See the schedule below.
Farewell to Mrs. Dunston
As I sit down to write this letter, a mix of emotions floods my thoughts. It's with both a heavy heart and immense gratitude that I bid Jodi farewell as she embarks on a new journey in her career. Her departure marks the end of an era at Norristown Area High School, and I want to take this moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for her dedicated service as our Assistant Principal.
For fourteen years, she has been an invaluable asset to our school community. Her unwavering commitment to the betterment of our students and the institution as a whole has left an indelible mark. Her leadership, vision, and the tireless efforts she put into her role have made a profound impact on the lives of countless students, teachers, and staff members.
Her ability to connect with students on a personal level and provide the support and guidance they needed has been nothing short of remarkable. Her passion for education, combined with her empathetic nature, has not only helped students grow academically but has also nurtured their character development.
Furthermore, her collaboration with the teaching staff has been instrumental in fostering an environment of innovation and academic excellence. Her support, mentorship, and encouragement have empowered us to strive for the best in our teaching practices, ultimately benefiting the students.
While it's difficult to imagine Norristown without her presence, I know that her new endeavor will be met with the same dedication and excellence that has been shown here. As she moves forward, please know that her legacy will continue to shape the future of this institution.
As a colleague, I feel privileged to have worked alongside her . Her wisdom, kindness, and dedication have inspired us all. We will miss her guidance, leadership, and her warm presence in the school's corridors.
I want to wish Jodi every success in her new role. Her talent and passion are bound to make a significant impact wherever she goes. We know her future endeavors will be as fulfilling and rewarding as your time at Norristown.
We thank her for exceptional service, and know that you leave behind a school community that deeply appreciates your contributions and will remember you with great fondness.
Sincerely,
Dr. McGriff
Principal
Norristown Area High School
Norristown Area High School
Email: dmcgriff@nasd.k12.pa.us
Website: https://www.nasd.k12.pa.us/NAHS
Phone: (610)630-5090