Principal’s greeting

 by Jay Conroy, Principal, Corvallis High School 

 Greetings to parents and students,

We’re already half way through the year and a couple of updates are in order along with a note of general concern and thanks.

Added class sections – Because CHS’ enrollment substantially exceeded projections, and because we know we will not have staff reductions for this academic year, we have added sections in Speech and Intro to Literature. We are also looking at a couple of ways to reduce student numbers in Global Studies classes for second semester.

Foundation donations – The Corvallis School District 509J Foundation has received more than $350,000 since July 1, 2002! The total amount received during last fiscal year (01-02) was $425,000. Those donations are either specifically earmarked by donors for certain schools or programs, or are given as general donations that can be used by schools throughout the district. Thank you very much to those of you who were able to support us through this program.

“New” CHS – “Final” plans will be completed and sent to the Corvallis Planning Commission for approval. Groundbreaking is set to begin in June. Parking for students and staff during construction, alternative football field during the interim, fine-tuning the classroom designs and where to put four tennis courts are items that are at the top of our list this month.

Breaking points – Finally, in my short tenure as principal I have grasped more clearly than ever the problem of inadequate school funding. Teacher load is simply too heavy. Too many students per teacher means – 1) not enough feedback from teachers to students in the form of graded essays, one-on-one conversation and class-time response; or, in the alternative, 2) teachers are literally forced to lower their expectations for students or work beyond what is reasonable. The result—my teaching colleagues are professionally very strained.

We realize that all segments of our society are stressed during hard economic times. Some of you have endured job loss or cutbacks. We aren’t asking for undue sympathy and are very appreciative of both your financial support and your kind words. Most importantly, we’re very grateful for your children and the attitudes and effort they continue to give each day, upholding their end of the responsibility for their own education. My hope for the new year—that our legislative leaders and we citizens can have the wisdom and the courage to do what’s right for our students. The education of those students is our key investment for the future.