Heard it through the grapevine: a place for you to nip those rumors about the district in the bud...

HIGH SCHOOL

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What time should people arrive for the SAT on May 3 and what should they bring?

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Arrive by 8:00am and bring the SAT admission ticket, a picture ID, two #2 pencils and an acceptable calculator.

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I was wondering do we have to pass our Regents exams in order to pass for the year?

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Regents exams may be part of the final average of a course so the answer may be yes depending on the teacher. Check with your teacher or counselor to be sure.

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Were invitations mailed yet for the High School West award night?

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Yes, they were mailed out over the past several days.

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Were invitations mailed yet for the High School East award night?

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Yes, they were put in the mail last Friday, April 25.

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Are all parents being sent home invitations to the HS West Award ceremony or are they just being mailed home to the parents of the students that are going to receive the award?

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Invitations are mailed home only to students who will be receiving an award at this event.  Although the process is new for High School West, invitations were mailed in the same manner as the High School East event which has been held for many years.  Students will not know what award they are receiving until the actual night of the event.  Families and friends of the recipients are included in the invitation and welcome to attend. 

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During the time before school starts why are we not allowed to listen to ipods? I understand not being able to use a phone but there is nothing going on during that time considering a lot of kids get driven in. It's a way to relax without getting in  trouble!!

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The high school administration is exploring options for the use of these for next school year.  For now, however, the practice remains that they be put away as students enter the building.

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Why are spring sports and the senior prom, not featured in the high school yearbook of that year?

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The yearbook goes to print before the spring sports and proms have taken place.  Therefore they are not generally a part of the publication.  Is it time for us to consider a video yearbook so that the entire year's activities could be included?

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If a High school student fails the Earth Science regents but passes the class, can he/she retake the regents in August without attending summer school?

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Yes.

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How come all the bathrooms in the high school are locked in the morning besides the one near the main entrance? It is very inconvenient for people who need to use the restroom with the overcrowding in the only one that is open!

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The bathrooms are opened at 7:30 am.  The exceptions are those located at the main entrance.  This is due to an inability to supervise the other bathrooms until 7:30 am.

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I have heard some of the monitors send certain students to the CAPS office and then only warn other students for doing exactly the same thing. Shouldn't there be some form of consistency?

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The monitors and administration do their best to interact consistently with the student body as a whole and individually.  However, with the many adults who do work with students in our school, it is impossible to have complete consistency although that is what all of us strive for.  If you are aware of inconsistencies in the implementation of the Code of Conduct, please contact Mr. Flynt at flyndona@shenet.org.

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What are the dates of the Regents at the end of the school year? and what tests are on what days?

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The Regents exams are scheduled beginning on Tuesday, June 17 and continue through Wednesday, June 25th.  A newsletter will be sent home in May outlining the testing information.  The schedule is:

  • June 17 AM - Integrated Algebra PM - Chemistry

  • June 18 AM - English Part 1, RCT Science PM - Global History and Geography

  • June 19 AM - English Part 2 PM - Math A, Math B, RCT Reading

  • June 20 AM - US History and Government PM - Earth Science

  • June 23 AM - Second Language Proficiency French, Spanish, German, Latin PM - RCT Math, RCT Writing

  • June 24 AM - Living Environment PM - Regents exam French, Spanish, German, Latin, RCT Global Studies

  • June 25 AM - Physics, RCT US History and Government     

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I have heard rumors that there will be no Respectfest, Lotefest or Irishfest next year. Is this true?

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Special events days are planned by clubs and academic departments.  If these clubs and departments continue to plan and organize these events, they will continue to be held.  These traditions are a part of the Shenendehowa climate and culture that students, staff and faculty enjoy.

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The other day I received a letter from something like NHS. Do you know what it is, and if it's legit?

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The National Honors Society recently sent letters out to students eligible, by academic achievement, for consideration for induction into NHS. It is legit.

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When is the last day of classes for HS? Thanks

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The last day of classes for students in grades 9-12 is Friday, June 13th.

 

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Why is SADD Speaker Day in the Little Theater I thought High School East made a commitment to have it inth auditorium this year. WHAT GIVES!  

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After much discussion with advisors to clubs and activities, it was decided that when possible, presentations are much more effective when held in the more intimate setting provided by the Little Theatre.

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Since Shen will not be participating in the April 25th Day of Silence, what does Shen do to encourage tolerance and respect for its LGBT students?

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Shenendehowa, as a district entity, does not participate in Days of Silence.  However, procedures and regulations are in place to allow for individual student participation. Shenendehowa High School is proud of its commitment to promoting tolerance in school.  In addition to many activities such as Respect Day, the high school offers students and staff opportunities to participate in World of Difference and NCBI, two organizations whose mission is to end prejudice and to promote tolerance.

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I heard that one of the class vice principal's tore down signs in HSE that were put up by students to advertise a fundraising concert to help raise money for a HSE student to get an artificial hand - he lost his hand in an accident last summer. Is this true?

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All signs that are hung around East and West must be approved by Associate Principals, Mrs. Brown in East and Mrs. Donlon in West.  This practice allows the school to have some control of activities that are advertised and promoted in the school.

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Do you need working papers if you are planning to work over the summer?

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Yes, if you are under 18.

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When is the Spring Formal for the 9th graders?

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The 9th grade dance is scheduled for Friday May 9th at HS East from 7 to 10pm. All tickets are pre sale. The cost is $10 per ticket and will be sold during lunch periods a week before the dance. This is a Semi-Formal Dance, so no jeans or sneakers! If you are bringing a student from another high school, you must pick up a GUEST FORM sheet and return it to Mr. Beson in the CAP Office before you can purchase their ticket.

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Why did HSE abolish GLASS club?

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GLASS was not abolished but does not currently have an advisor.

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Why is Earth Day going to be celebrated in the Little Theatre this year? Isn't it a big priority to have the most people attend as possible?

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At the conclusion of each of our special days at the high school, we evaluate the effectiveness of the program and look for ways to improve.  After a recent event was held in the auditorium, it was determined that the audience participation and more positive effect could be attained by having many of these events in the smaller, more intimate Little Theatre.  As a result Earth Day activities in East will be held in the Little Theatre.

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Is it true that 9th graders have to share the bus with 10th, 11th, and 12th graders?

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Yes. Shenendehowa High School buses carry students to school each day in grades 9-12.

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Will Shenendehowa be a participating school in the April 25th Homosexual Day of Silence? This protest method could potentially interrupt classroom time of students who do not wish to participate.

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Shenendehowa, as a district entity, does not participate in Days of Silence.  However, procedures and regulations are in place to allow for individual student participation.  In accordance with Board approved Code of Conduct, and consistent with state and federal laws and regulations,  a student has a right to such expression. This is specifically enforced under the First Amendment which allows for the free exercise of religion, freedom of speech, the right of people to assemble peaceably, and the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

However, prior to the exercising of such rights on school premises, the building principal must be provided advanced notice of any potential acts or actions in order to appropriately allow said rights but yet preserving a positive learning environment.  Any such actions by students cannot jeopardize or substantially interfere with the educational process, nor shall it lend to the harassment or discrimination against another group, or create an unsafe or disorderly environment.  In exercising their rights, it can not be done in such a way that it violates the rights of others, particularly those with a different viewpoint. To view the policy click here.

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What is NHS?

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National Honor Society.

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This isn't really a rumor but I’m in math applied 2 and I honestly think I am ready for the math A Regents but my teacher says I have to take it in January can I opt to take it this summer?

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At the conclusion of Applied II, students are only 2/3 the way through the Math A curriculum. While it is possible that the student may pass the Regents exam after Applied II, it will be very difficult to score at a level that reflects their true mathematical ability.  The student will have the best possibility of obtaining their best score after the curriculum is completed and a professionally designed review of all math A has been delivered.  We do not recommended students take the state assessment until the entire course sequence is completed.

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What are the benefits of taking an AP (Advanced Placement) class?

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Besides being more challenging than most high school courses, there are colleges that either waive required courses or grant college credits (saving tuition money). This depends on the score achieved on the Advance Placement test. Students should challenge themselves by taking Advanced Placement courses if they are capable and should seek advice from their counselor if they have questions.

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When are working papers required (what age)? And how do kids get them?

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Working papers are required until a student is 18 years old.  Working paper applications are available in the HSE, HSW and middle school Counseling Centers.

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I was wondering what percentage of Shen students go to Ivy League Schools?

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We don't track that. Approximately 91% of Shenendehowa's graduating classes pursued higher education last year. Post high school choices are broken down by four and two-year colleges. Historically, approximately 60% of Shen's graduating classes attend four-year colleges and 30% attend two-year colleges.

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Why don't the Vending Machines in the High School East Auditorium provide refunds if they frequently eat money?

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Most of the vending at High School East belong to the Student Senate who contracts the services out to venders.  You should contact your student representative about their refund policy.

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Why is the hockey team allowed to chew tobacco in the bathroom during lunch periods?

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No one is "allowed" to chew tobacco on school grounds. If they get caught, they would be disciplined according the district's code of conduct.

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Is the school looking into adding smart boards to the high school classes any time soon?

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Yes. A District Instructional Technology Integration Committee is looking into cutting edge technology to improve critical thinking, as well as to better manage, analyze and use data and information.

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Has the district considered constructing additional exits from the student parking lot at HSE to reduce congestion before and after school?

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The district has incorporated a bypass lane in front of HSE.  This has greatly reduced the congestion in this area.  Adding more exits that would just end up on the same road would not really help.

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Have the HSE bathroom conditions been improved at all?  They are unsanitary and it has been brought to the attention of the administration and janitors in the beginning of the year.

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The restrooms are cleaned regularly. However, it is important to consider the need for personal responsibility on the part of those using the restrooms to be respectful and considerate by keeping them clean.

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Why do Journalism classes do a broadcast unit? My child is extremely apprehensive to work in front of the camera. On top of this, the broadcasts are being played for all classes in the little theater.

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This curriculum for that class covers content that includes print and electronic media.  If you need further clarification regarding this assignment, please contact the teacher.

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What are the hours of the HSE School store?

Are parents allowed to go to the Shen store in the HSE building to buy apparel?

Why is there a candy store in High School East? I don't think this is a healthy idea. Thanks

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The school store is open the last two periods of the school day for student use.  However, parents wishing to purchase items from the store may contact the advisor, Mrs. Kelly to make such purchases.  Candy is sold at the conclusion of the lunch periods.

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Why can’t students e-mail with out permission?

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Supervision is again at the heart of this issue.  It is important to monitor what sites and addresses students are accessing while under the supervision of the school.  Therefore email and website access is continuously monitored.  

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The halls at high school east are always so crowded, and it's hard to get from one building to another in five minutes, especially if your in gym, will you ever change that five minute time limit?

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High School East is crowded, but not over capacity.  While it is difficult at times to navigate the hallways, most students can get to their classes on time if they manage their time between classes efficiently.  Changing the five-minute passing time is not a consideration at this time. However, the administration is looking at scheduling patterns to help alleviate this concern.

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Why do the computers make so many errors on the students' schedules?

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More than likely it is human error that occurs when entering the information and setting the parameters in the scheduling program.  

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Has it ever been considered to get another library in HSE? Every morning, we get to school 30 minutes before homeroom. This is a perfect time to cram in some studying or finish an assignment.  However, once all of the seats are taken in the library, you have to go to the cafeteria which is also packed and 10x louder.  This isn't exactly the perfect study area. What's a kid to do?

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No, but your comment will be shared with the high school administration.  In addition, you should share your perspective with the principal as well.

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Why were all the Guidance Counselors changed in HSE this year? Now I'm supposed to get a college recommendation from woman I have never met?

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Any questions about guidance and recommendations should be addressed directly with either the counselor, or Mr. John Puccia- Academic Administrator for 6-12 Guidance Services.

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When will there be a steady staff of HS Counselors? I know people who have had their's changed at least 3 times since ninth grade, and they don't know anything about their current student now.

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Students change their counselor when they move from HSW to HSE.  They stay with that counselor for the remainder of their high school career.  However, sometimes counselors leave for other positions or take leaves of absence for childrearing purposes which necessitates a change in counselors.

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Is there a website for a career/personality evaluation, like the kinds where you answer the questions and it tells you what careers would be best for you?

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Students should visit the Guidance Department or talk to their counselor.  They will provide them with a variety of career and personality surveys and resources.

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I have noticed that the girls bathroom in the front of HSE is extremely unclean. Why don't the maintenance staff clean it during the day?

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The girls bathroom in the front of East is the most widely used.  Maintenance checks it regularly during the school day.  If students believe that it needs greater attention during any particular school day, they should report this to the front desk or to the principal's office.

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Please post at what times the high school offers extra help or tutoring and who you can contact about getting you child help.

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Teachers offer extra help at a variety of times during and after school.  Students should contact the teacher personally or touch base with the appropriate academic administrator with questions.

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How does Shen reward or recognize high school students who go above and beyond academically and in the community?

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Each year HSE has a special awards night that recognizes students for a variety of achievements including academic achievement and community service.  This year, HSW will also have a year end awards ceremony.  In addition, students in grades 11 and 12 are eligible for a variety of scholarships and as appropriate, students are recognized during the morning announcements.

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Who is the administrator/teacher in charge of Recycling Club?

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Recycling is the responsibility of S.C.A.R.C.E. (Schools Concerned About 'R  Crippled Environment) whose advisor is Mr. Klassen.

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I am a current student at HSE, and I was wondering if it is really necessary to have tables set up behind the main cafeteria for members of the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force? I think that there is enough propaganda with out them pushing flyers into my face. 

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 Yes, it is necessary. For the same reasons, both legally and otherwise, that the district allows colleges to visit the school and provide literature; the district also has an obligation to our military service branches.

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How come the cheerleading squad is called a team on some occasions and a club on others? Or is it about when it is convenient for Shen?

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Team and club are often used interchangeably by people for many different school-related activities.  For purposes of identifying the funding source, it is technically referred to as an extra-curricular club.

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Why do students in high school still need to be "supervised" since most of them are used to being unsupervised at home?

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The district has a legal responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all students. We trust and hope that positive behaviors that are learned at home are practiced in school making the "supervision" of high school students a mere technicality.

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With the ever increasing class sizes at the High School, is there any plan to expand the High School East? There is already a crowding problem.

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There are no plans to expand the high school. The administration continues to look for ways to maximize the spaces and ensure a high quality learning experience for students.

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Is it true the seniors who take physics this year will not be able to go to the Great Escape in June?

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That question needs to be directed to the appropriate teacher because, while it requires the approval of administration, the physics trip to Great Escape is a teacher-initiated trip. The high school has a standard practice of limiting field trips in June.  However, the trip has taken place in past years. 

 

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Is it true that the Irish Fest's educational value is being questioned for future fests? My student learned a lot from the process and we would hate to see it go.

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No. There have not been questions about the educational value of the Irish Fest.  However with most activities and all educational programs, it is crucial that the school community evaluates them periodically for continuous improvement and to plan more effectively for future events.

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If a student loses his or her School I.D, how do they go about getting a new one? Does it cost anything?

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Students who lose their IDs may get a replacement by contacting Mrs. Sherry Pufky in the Principal's Office.  There is a $5.00 replacement fee.

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How do students who need help in a subject get help if their teacher is not available during their free periods or before/after school?

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Teachers are available to work with students throughout the school day.  If however, a conflict prevents the student from accessing the teacher, the student should speak directly to the teacher about this.  If no resolution to this may be found during that conversation, the student/parent may contact the Academic Administrator for that content area.  If this is not a satisfactory resolution, the student/parent may contact the appropriate grade level administrator and then the principal.

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Why is there a ban on all card games in the high school cafeteria? What difference does it make if nobody is gambling on a non-face card game?

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It is difficult for staff members to determine whether or not the students are playing cards for the purpose of gambling.  Therefore, card playing is not allowed during the school day. In addition, the students' time might be better spent in other ways of socializing or completing school work. 

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My child reports that most student bathrooms are locked and not available for use by students in HS East during the school day.  How many student bathrooms are there in HS East and how many of them are open each day for use by students?

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There are five male bathrooms and six female bathrooms in HSE, in addition to restrooms in each locker room.  The bathrooms are open during the school day for student use.  However if there are instances of vandalism or the bathrooms malfunction in any way, they are locked until the problem may be corrected.   After school the bathrooms are locked due to issues of proper supervision.  However, the bathrooms in the locker rooms and those located in the main lobby area remain open after school.

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Why is my photography teacher no longer able to sell us photo paper and film for half of the price of paper and film sold at school?

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There is currently a plan being developed that art teachers will use to purchase these types of art supplies for students.  However, the plan must ensure proper accounting procedures with appropriate documentation of the sale of these items to meet State Education guidelines.

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What is school policy regarding food and drink in the classroom? P.S. can I use the response in my March 2008 article for the Shen Pen

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Food and drink are not generally allowed in the classroom.  However, there are certain lessons related to the cultures of other countries that are enhanced by food and therefore are permissible.  In addition, teachers occasionally use food as a source of motivation or prize for some students, which is also allowed. And yes, you can use it for the Shen Pen.

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Why is there limited trophy space in HSE? And why were some trophies taken away?

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With the great success of our athletic teams and performing groups, it is difficult to display all the trophies that students earn in their competition at Shen.  However, this should not diminish the hard work or effort of our students.  If your high school group has earned trophies or awards, please feel free to bring this to the attention of Mr. Flynt the high school principal so that he can appropriately recognize this accomplishment. 

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Is it true that the administration is looking into creating a "Senior Wing" at High School East? When would that come into effect if true?

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There have been preliminary conversations about the potential for such a wing for seniors because of the many different educational experiences that set them apart from students in grades 9-12.  In addition, there has been some discussion about the potential impact this would have on the sophomores and juniors, particularly in regard to the traveling they do throughout the building each day.

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Why does the high school have 40 minutes in the beginning of the day of free time? Wouldn't that time be more effectively spent in an elective class, study hall, or just plain starting school later, or ending it earlier?

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Buses drop students off at 7:10 a.m. and school starts at 7:40 a.m. This is so that the buses can drop at the high school and begin the next run for elementary schools. Currently, the district is conducting a transportation study looking at availability of buses and the impact on the start and dismissal times of all the schools. That being said, it is not a full 40 minutes by the time students get into the school, go to their lockers, etc. And, not all students take the bus. So, many arrive at school much closer to the start of school.

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The lockers in the old gym of High School East are disgusting and need a new paint job. Is the school going to clean up/remodel the old gym locker rooms?

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Those lockers are scheduled to be renovated as part of the track and field project.

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If the high school store sells "Shen" apparel, why isn't it on display on the website (or is it and I haven't found it yet)?

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It isn't...mainly because no one has taken on the responsibility of doing it.

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My daughter would like help finding out more information about colleges to make sure she makes the correct decisions. Where could she go to get help?

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She can talk to her guidance counselor.

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Why does the Shenendehowa FIRST Robotics Team have to follow the rules and guidelines created for sports teams when we are not treated as one in any other respect?

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Because as an extracurricular activity it is sponsored by the school district and you are entered into the contests representing Shenendehowa Central Schools. According to the code of conduct, all students are expected to:

"Represent Shenendehowa when participating or attending school sponsored events with the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship."

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I would like to see an additional honors English class for tenth-grade students. There should be more than just World Cult/Lit. How do we get this changed?

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The decision to offer additional honors-level classes is made each year around December/January. Discussions involve faculty, administration, guidance and student/parental input. In the past, there has not been a great deal of feedback from either parents or students to suggest the need for additional English honors for gr. 10 students. However, if you believe more should be offered, please contact Mary Ann Campe, academic administrator for English, or Don Flynt, high school principal.

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Where will next year's world culture/literature course be held for ninth grade students?

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Beginning next year (Sept. 2008) this course will be offered at High School West for ninth grade students. It will continue to be held there as long as there is enough enrollment in the course to offer it there.

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My child needs a certain amount of community service hours for National Honor Society and her PAF class? Is there a central location to obtain information about these hours?

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Your child can talk to the advisor or teacher or you can speak to your child's counselor or the high school principal, Don Flynt, can help facilitate the community service requirement.

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When will the class of 2009 take their senior picture?

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It will be scheduled for the first day of class in September 2008.

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Why were the posters for Liberty University and Roberts Wesleyan College taken down from the bulletin board but the poster for New York University was left up? Was this done because they are Christian institutions?

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Outdated information such as college open houses is removed on a regular basis. It has nothing to do with religious affiliations.

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Can seventh graders tryout for the Dance Team?

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No. The Shen Dance Team is for students in grades 9-12. Tryouts are held each year in May for the following year. So eighth graders would try out in May to participate in gr. 9.

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Can anyone join any club or are there tryouts for clubs just as there are for sports?

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It depends on the club. Some clubs (i.e. drama, colorguard) have tryouts. If you have a question about a particular club, contact the main office at the school you or your child attends.

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What is the TAP program that parents of 8th graders were invited to. My child is in 8th grade and I don't know anything about this program or the meeting?

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TAP stands for Transitional Academic Program.   The program is a special bridge program for students as they transition to the high school.   Students who are at risk for academic failure at the high school level are referred to the program by their middle school counselor.  Parents interested in more information can contact their child's middle school counselor.  

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Is it true that the board is hiring a consulting firm to help with the issue of productivity? Why are there so many administrators standing around the school? Why are there so many monitors in the halls on top of this?

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No. In an effort to make schools feel more personalized and ensure safety, we encourage the presence of administrators and staff in the hallways particularly during student transition periods.

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Does the district report thefts of student property to the police? If someone is caught stealing items are they arrested and is there any attempt to recover stolen items?

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It depends on the situation. All thefts should be reported to the building administration and should be investigated. The district is not responsible for items brought to school by students.

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Why can't we work in collaborative groups or listen to ipods during study hall?

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The Code of Conduct prohibits use of electronic devices during the school day.

Such devices include, but are not limited to: Walkmans, MP3 players (audio listening devices), cell phones, Palm Pilots, cameras or any other instrument that can be used to transmit images, sound or information from one source to another. Such devices shall not be used during the school day from the time a student enters the school building until dismissed; except when part of classroom instruction or other authorized activity.

If students need to complete a collaborative assignment during study hall, arrangements can be made by speaking with the study hall monitor, teacher or administrator.

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What is the typical dropout rate over the past few years? Are these students from both the general education and special education population?

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The drop out rate for general education students over the past few years has held steady at approximately 2%. The drop out rate for special education students has fluctuated between 3 and 4%.

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Why does the district require families to purchase scientific calculators that cost more than $100 when the NYS Education Department says the school district should be providing the calculators because they are required for the educational program?

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The district has purchased sets of these calculators to be used in the classroom. In addition, calculators are available for students to borrow in all math classes that have that program requirement.

 

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Are we allowed to schedule class in place of lunch if we want to?

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No. According to NYS Education Law, each school shall schedule a reasonable time for each full day pupil attending pre-kindergarten through grade 12 to consume lunch.

 

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Is the high school using Small Learning Communities? Some of the students seem to think that they are.

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The main principal of Smaller Learning Communities is the notion of personalizing a large school environment. There are many ways to do so this and the high school has made major efforts including a greater administrative presence throughout the building, an attempt to minimize the distance students need to travel between classes, and a new reception desk in the main entrance. There are specific programs that are being recommended for next year, such as the Math/Science/Technology initiative that will continue these efforts to further personalize the high school learning environment.

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Why does the high school start so early, especially in light of all the studies that have been done that indicate that teenagers need more sleep?

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The start of the high school day is based on the following factors:  it coordinates with other school districts for interscholastic athletic schedules;  it provides the time needed for after school for other activities such as extracurricular clubs, academic support, jobs, etc.; and it helps some families by ensuring that older students arrive home before younger siblings.

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Why wasn't everyone allowed in the student section at homecoming?

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It is a privilege provided for high school students and it is also a means of helping to manage the large number of fans.

 

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Why can't the track team run in the hallways before 4 p.m.?

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It is a safety issue. The building still has a significant number of people in the halls between 3 and 4 p.m.

 

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What is the difference between a sport and a club?

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Sports are regulated by the NYS Public High School Association. Clubs are often student driven and budgeted for on an annual basis.

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Why can't seniors walk alone to their locker to grab a textbook during a free period?

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Students walking in the hallways during class are a potential distraction to the instructional activities taking place. Monitors are in stationed throughout the building in order to maintain adequate supervision of our students. Seniors are allowed to walk alone but with the permission of an adult through the pass system.

 

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Why can't students print projects on color ink without a teacher's permission?

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Because students were printing a vast majority of their papers in color, even when it was not necessary. Since the new procedure was instituted, printing in color has been reduced from 3,00 sheets per month to 700 sheets per month. This represents a considerable savings on printing cost over a 10 month period.

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Why is the sophomore semi-formal not listed on the events calendar?

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Because the date was only finalized by the sophomore class on January 30, 2008. That calendar is printed in August. The sophomore dance is on May 30.

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Is it true that High School East has a candy store?

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High School East has a school store that sells student supplies and materials for class. To supplement its revenues, the store also sells candy after lunch and after school.

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What is the protocol regarding AIS (Academic Intervention Services)? How and when are parents notified as to their child being in the AIS program?

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Parents should receive a letter from their child's principal in advance of receiving AIS. The letter is standard procedure. Being below a level 3 in reading is one of the criteria for academic intervention services in first grade. If you were not notified, you should contact your child's principal to discuss.

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There are rumors flying around that the district is going to stop allowing field trips during the school day. Is that true?

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Field trips play a valuable role and there is no plan to stop allowing them during the school day. The district is looking at the cost concerns expressed from some parents as well as the policies and guidelines for field trips.

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Is it true that this year's senior class, the class of 2008, is experiencing a large number of drop outs?

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While it is too early to tell, we predict that we will not have more drop outs than in past years because we have been more proactive in working with our at-risk population at all grade levels. This includes a five-week monitoring system for attendance, achievement and behavior. Having said that, each year the class composite is different and minor increases or decreases are not unexpected.

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Is High School West for 9th-grade students only?

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High School West is for the 9th-grade program. That means that you could have older and/or younger students in the building.

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What and where is "The Fridge" in HSE? Is it a study hall, a hangout room? I am a junior and I still don't know what it is.

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The "Fridge" is a "cool" room in High School East, next to the South Office. Seniors can "chill out" during their unscheduled periods but it is also open to all East students during their lunch periods. The room was named and furnished by the Senate. Lost and Found is located there. Before and after school the room is used for club meetings and the Senate uses it for its caucus and meetings.

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I heard that at least two students who were suspended or expelled from Shen are now being tutored at the library? Is this true and/or is it being paid with taxpayers money? If so, why?

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Education Law 3214 provides that after suspending a student, the school district must take immediate steps to provide that student with alternative instruction is the student is of compulsory education age. We generally try to do so at mutually agreeable sights such as the library. However, sometimes the tutor goes to the home.

 

Senior Topics Privileges/Parking/Prom/Graduation

 

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Why is there a waiting list for senior prom tickets?

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The venue for the senior prom is the largest in the Capital Region. With 735 tickets being sold, the venue is at capacity. The class of 2008 happens to be the largest to go through Shen in quite some time. That being said, all of those who were put on the waiting list during the advertised sales dates will receive tickets. Questions about tickets should be directed to Mr. Gnat.

 

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My father works near Northern Lights and he says it closed because it filed for bankruptcy. How can the Jr./Sr. prom after parties be there if it's closed?

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The after prom parties are sponsored by CAPTAIN and are being held as planned at Northern Lights.

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How do you get early release and late arrival? Will our schedules automatically put our free periods 1st or 9th period?

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Seniors will be allowed late arrival and early release by meeting specific criteria as seniors.  Students are not, however, able to change their schedules simply to create a schedule that gives them a study hall at the beginning or end of the day.

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Do you know if there will be a Senior Trip scheduled this year for the Class 2008?

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As of today, no trip has been planned to take the place of the previously canceled Senior trip.

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Why are the after proms for seniors and juniors at the same place? I feel like the seniors should have it at Northern Lights and juniors should have it at the YMCA like we did last year.

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Both students and community members felt that the Northern Lights location for the after prom parties was a good choice since it allows the party to have more choice in music with either a DJ or live performances.

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Do seniors have to pay a dollar to send mid-year grades to a college?

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No.

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Will there be a new senior trip this year since our last trip was cancelled?

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At present there are no plans to reschedule a senior trip.

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Do you need tickets to HS graduation? If yes, is there a limit of tickets per family?

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There are no tickets needed for graduation.  However, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center has limited indoor seating with virtually unlimited outside lawn seating.

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What's the plan for the senior after prom? I keep hearing different things.

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After Prom, sponsored by Captain, for both the junior and senior proms will be held at Northern Lights in Clifton Park.

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Is the high school guidance office going to post the senior college choices on their website like the did in the past?

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The HSE Counseling Center will post senior college choices on our outer office window by May 1st. Senior college choices are not posted on our website.

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Can I bring a person from a different country to the prom?

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All guests of the prom from outside of Shenendehowa High School are subject to the approval of the administration. Contact your grade level associate principle.

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What are the minimum number of class periods a senior student must attend before going home for early release?

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Five credits (courses) plus physical education per Board of Education policy.

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Is it true that if a senior fails 2 classes they are not allowed to graduate even if they have the required number of credits and all required classes completed?

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No, this is not true. If a senior successfully satisfies the required courses for a diploma, s/he will graduate.

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Do they have a photographer are the senior prom and who is it this year?

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Yes, the PTSA contracts with a photographer each year.  This year the contract is through McGrath Studios.  Information about the packages will be in the ticket envelope.  Packages range from $26.00 - $89.00.  Students will need to bring checks to the prom. 

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The Senior prom has been held in Albany the last several years.  Students have continually complained that there is not enough room and they run out of food?  Does the District have a extended contract with the venue or can another site, possibly in Saratoga County be found?

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There is only one area venue that we are aware that will accommodate between 600-800 people for the Senior Prom.  The administration is not aware of any issues with the venue running out of food or space being a problem.

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I have heard that seniors will not have senior privileges next year. That they will not have late arrival or early release and that they must be in study halls. Is that true?

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No, it is not true.

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There are always a ton of parking spaces closer to the school but students are not allowed to park there because they are "staff spots". If there are no cars in the parking spots, don't you think students should be able to park there?

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Some parking spots are located near the building at East and appear not to be used.  However, they are reserved for teachers and administrators who work in both East and West or East and another district building and travel during the day between schools.

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When do seniors order their cap and gowns and are they allowed to keep their tassels?

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Orders for cap and gown took place months ago.  A student should see class assistant principal, Mr. Gnat in the North Office to get fitted.  They are allowed to keep their tassel

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What if seniors want to buy a Cap and Gown? How would we go about doing that?

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Cap and gowns are rentals.  They may contact Marlene at Herf Jones, the company that supplies the caps and gowns, should they have questions regarding a purchase.

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Are any provisions made for those students where paying the $17.75 rental fee for the cap and gown poses a financial burden?

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If the class assistant principal, Mr. Gnat, is made aware of the person in need of assistance he can work with the company supplying the caps and gowns, Herf Jones.