The second semester has begun at Shaker High School. Students, faculty and parents continue to work together to ensure the best possible instruction for students. I appreciate the support parents provide to the Shaker High School faculty and administration. Through our combined efforts students are achieving in the classroom and contributing positively to the overall school climate.

During the past year students have been involved in reciting poetry through our Poetry Out Loud competition. Over 700 students memorized poetry. Twelve students competed for placement at the regional level and, hopefully, state level. We also have a number of students who have been named National Merit Finalists. Seniors continue to be recognized by colleges through acceptance into colleges of their choice.
 

As students attend classes and participate in sports and clubs, our educators continue to hold high expectations for student development. While we all value strong grades, we understand the importance of good citizenship and positive communication among students and the adults they come in contact with each day.

A recent survey by 431 human resource professionals ranked their expectations for employees. The responses were not all related to academic achievement. The question posed was: “What do you believe are the five most important skills or qualities (in rank order) that high school graduates need?” The result was as follows:

• Professionalism—80.3%

• Teamwork—74.7%

• Oral Communication 70.3%

• Ethics and Social Responsibility—63.4%

• Reading Comprehension-62.5%

At Shaker High School we continue to set high expectations for academics and the methods we use to communicate and work with one another. It is important that students and adults interact in a way that exhibits tolerance for each other. An environment of respect, team work, and understanding will translate into a positive means of communication students will possess as they move into post secondary education, and eventually into careers.