Dear Harden Community,

 

Our school year is off to a great start!  We are proud to announce excellent gains from last year:  10% more students enjoyed participating in the 8th grade promotion ceremony, 52% more students were redesignated as English fluent, and our data shows a 40% reduction of D and F grades.  Last year, more than 350 students demonstrated strong academics by making the Renaissance program.  Renaissance students enjoyed a number of rewards such as the Beijing acrobats and a trip to the bowling alley.  This year, help your student(s) be a part of this wonderful program!

 

Students become members of the Renaissance program by doing one or more of the following:  earning a grade point average (g.p.a.) of 3.0 or higher, improving their g.p.a. by .5, maintaining perfect attendance, or receiving all “outstanding” marks in citizenship.  Students are officially recognized during Renaissance event nights where certificates are awarded and parents are invited to attend.

 

Parents can help their student(s) be successful by checking their child’s agenda for homework and encouraging their child to do their best, every day.  Students are encouraged to talk to their teacher(s) and/or counselor if they are experiencing difficulties in their classes. 

 

Students that do not get all of their work done may be required to attend ZAP (zeroes aren’t permitted) during lunch time.  Counselors and teachers provide students an opportunity to make up essential homework or class work on specified days.  

 

This year, we have added Pre-Algebra and Algebra tutorial classes to help students that are struggling with math.  Students may opt out of the tutorial once they demonstrate math proficiency. 

 

Harden staff will continue to collaborate on Wednesday mornings.  We use this time to study our student data and determine best practices in the classroom.  Thank you, parents, for your support.  Students that arrive early on Wednesday mornings (before 9:45am) will be escorted to the library to work quietly before school starts.

 

In addition to working hard on academics, Harden has added a comprehensive music program and GATE classes to the curricula.  Harden offers GATE English, Art, Choir, Guitar, Band, and a music exploratory course. 

 

I look forward to working with everyone in our community this year.  Hope to see you and your student(s) at a Harden Renaissance Night!

Sincerely,

Jacqui Axtell