Principal's Page
July 1st, 2008 I made a big change in my life and in the lives of my family. I moved to Cartersville with my husband and two dogs. As I settled in over the summer, I began working at Goochland High School. I have looked at much of the school information, researched the different groups of data, talked with many parents, listened to teachers’ input, and worked with the administrative staff in the central office and at the high school to develop a plan for this year.
Goochland has so much to be proud of. The SOL test score pass rates are phenomenal at above 90% in all for core subject areas. Goochland enjoys state-of-the-art technology and as important, supports the technology through staff development and expertly trained personnel.
Our school board has dictated that we work on several areas to increase student success. Targeted areas are rate of Advanced Studies Diplomas and Standard Diploma increase along with an SAT results increase. To this end, we have made some initial changes; we have added an SAT Prep class for 11th grade students. We know this will make a positive difference in the results for students in the Class of 2010. I encourage 12th grade studets to work on SAT preparation, knowing that the October 4th SAT date is fast approaching. The registration deadline for that testing session is September 9th. Work with your counselor for registration help.
Advanced Studies Diplomas require students to acquire four credits each in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies classes. In addition, students must take 9th and 10th grade PE, and at least 3 years of a world language. A total of 26 credits are required. An advanced studies diploma better prepares students for further education and / or training for the world of work. I encourage you as you make your plans for the future to include a world language in your schedule. This will allow more opportunities for your to further your knowledge and understanding of the different languages and cultures around the world and as close as next door. Having basic understanding of another language may make the difference in your ability to be hired in a future job.
It is an exciting time to be in high school. Our football, cross country, volleyball,and golf teams along with our cheering squads have been practicing for weeks. We have gone to camp, scrimmaged, and worked to be ready to be the best we can be this year. Golf has started scheduled play and we look forward to great outcomes from all. All other team begin competition this week. Please come out and support our athletes. Volleyball is participating in the Ukrops Tournament this weekend. Football opens with Benedictine this week. The JV team opens at home on Thursday and our Varsity team, the BIG event, also opens at home this Friday, Aug. 29th.
The Band held it’s annual summer band camp last week. On Thursday night after Business Day ended, I had the pleasure to watch them perform. I truly look forward to the halftime performances this year. We have a talented, hard-working group that will put on a good half-time show.
I have worked side-by-side with teachers this last week, preparing for students and setting goals to make it a great year. Teachers have agreed that communication is one of the keys to success in coursework. To that end, teachers will make contact with you if your child is not working at at least a C average. If you are difficult to contact, please let teachers know the best way to contact you. We need to know if you want an email, voice message, or direct contact. Work with your child’s teachers to help them know your contact preference.
You are aware by now that GCPS has an attendance policy. It is state law that you make sure that your child in school. If your child misses 6 days in a semester, the policy indicates that your child will fail the class. Let’s not get to this point. If there is a major incident or illness, please let us know right away so we can work with you. A pattern of tardies disrupt classes and your child’s chance for success. Please make sure your child is at school on time. If a student who drives has a pattern of tardies, the student will lose parking privileges. Let’s work together to make sure students are here and on time.
Dress code and cell phones continue to be the major issues early in the year on these warm days and while we transition from summer vacation. Inappropriate dress and cell phones disrupt the learning environment. Help us by reading the dress code section of the code of conduct and student handbook with your child. Your student may need your help to make good decisions. Phones used in school will be confiscated. Please don’t call or text your child during class. If you have an emergency and need to contact your child you should call the front office. We will get a message to your child.
It is shaping up to be a great year. Teachers are raising student expectations so that we can better educate your child. Over the next few years, we anticipate a reduction in the drop-out rate, a reduction in number of students earning a GED, an increase in Advanced Studies and Standard Diplomas, higher SAT scores and generally, better educated students.
Thank you for welcoming me into the Goochland community. I have enjoyed meeting many of you and look forward to working with you.
Goochland High School is accredited by the Virginia Department of Education and AdvancED. We educate students in grades 9-12 in central Goochland County, Virginia. Learn more about GHS through our profile & history page.
We're located at:
3250-A River Road West
Goochland, VA 23063
(804) 556-5322 | Fax (804) 556-6485