Back to School Special: What's New at Wakefield Memorial High School

As we head into the start of another school year, Wakefield Patch caught up with the principals of each school in town to ask about any changes implemented over the summer.

Principal Kim Smith of Wakefield High School shared what to expect when students walk in the door for the 2011-2012 school year.

Physical Improvements
Over the summer, the high school's lighting system received an upgrade, thanks to an energy conservation grant.

"We've replaced most lights in the building to a new type of light, so it casts a nice soft light instead of a yarsh yellow light," said Prinicpal Kim Smith. "I think the students will notice and appreciate the change."

Practical Information
Parents should return free and reduced lunch applications even if they think they may not qualify, the principal said in a newsletter to families.

"Wakefield may receive additional government funding for the percentage of qualifying families, even if students do not choose to use this option," she said.

WHS Agenda books ($10) and Warrior "Super Fan" T-shirts ($15) will be on sale in the cafeteria and in the school store during the first week of school.

First Day of School
The schedule for Tuesday, September 6, is as follows:  

• Freshmen ONLYwill report to homerooms at7:30a.m., followed by an abbreviated class schedule which will allow students to meet each of their teachers. Freshmen will eat lunch together on this day, then repeat the class schedule with the return of Grades 10-12 for the second half of the day.  
• Grades 10-12 will report to homeroom at 10:15 a.m. and will be served lunch. All students will follow an abbreviated class schedule to complete the day.

Get Involved
Parents have several options for involvement at the high school. The Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) supports special events such as Senior Class Night, Freshman Orientation, and Teacher Appreciation Week. The PTSA meets on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. in the conference room. . For more information about the PTSA, visit the table in the lobby at Back to School Night, or contact President Jeanne Leahy at jleahy3762@aol.com or 781-245-3969.

WHS is also currently seeking two parent representatives for the School Council, an advisory group to the principal that assists in the development of the school’s annual improvement plan. To get involved, email a short statement to Principal Smith at smith@wakefield.k12.ma.us.

Other avenues for parent involvement are the Music Boosters, Warrior Club, The WHS Alumni Foundation and the Wakefield Educational Foundation.

Upcoming Dates

• Back to School night has been scheduled for Thursday, September 22 at 6:30 p.m.
• Parent conference "open house" will be held on Thursday, November 17 from 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., a no school day for students.  

Communication
Finally, Principal Smith advised families to stay up-to-date on school news by using the school's website.

"Parents of Seniors should plan to visit the WHS website for information on important steps to complete early this fall for graduation, confirming diploma names, ordering cap & gowns, and completing yearbook profiles," she said in her newsletter. "We encourage all WHS families to visit our new school website regularly to learn about activities, events, and other updates."

Onward
"Administrators, faculty, and staff have been busy this summer preparing for the opening of school," said Principal Smith in her newsletter.  "We miss our students and look forward to September when they will bring our school to life with their excitement and enthusiasm!"