At Old Rochester Regional High School in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, the upcoming school year promises to be a pivotal moment where the comfort of tradition meets the excitement of new academic and community initiatives. Principal Michael Devoll has outlined a vision that prioritizes a stable and familiar environment for students while strategically introducing programs designed to enhance their educational journey and civic responsibility. This dual approach seeks to ensure that students, whether entering as freshmen or returning as upperclassmen, find a supportive setting that prepares them for future challenges. The school’s direction reflects a thoughtful blend of maintaining what has long worked and embracing change where it can make a meaningful impact, setting a tone of optimism for the year ahead.
Academic Strategies for Student Success
Building Foundations with Freshman Seminars
A cornerstone of the academic enhancements at Old Rochester Regional High School is the introduction of a freshman seminar program, meticulously crafted over recent years to support incoming ninth-graders. This initiative focuses on equipping students with critical study and organizational skills necessary for navigating high school’s rigorous demands. Teachers across various subjects are collaborating to create a unified approach, ensuring that students not only strengthen their existing abilities but also develop a consistent framework for tackling challenging coursework. Devoll envisions this program becoming an essential component of the school’s curriculum within the next five years, with the goal of fostering long-term academic resilience. The seminar is seen as a proactive step to ease the often daunting transition into high school, providing a structured environment where students can build confidence and competence from day one.
Introducing Midterm Exams for Progress Tracking
Complementing the freshman seminar, the school is rolling out midterm exams for the first time, marking a significant shift in how student progress is assessed. This addition offers students an opportunity to apply the skills learned in seminars, preparing them for the intensity of final exams while allowing educators to evaluate comprehension midway through the year. The midterms are designed to provide valuable feedback, helping teachers identify areas where students may need additional support before the academic year progresses further. This initiative underscores the school’s commitment to academic preparedness, ensuring that students are not only tested on content but also given chances to refine their learning strategies. By integrating these exams into the curriculum, Old Rochester aims to create a more comprehensive evaluation system that benefits both students and staff in tracking growth and addressing challenges in real time.
Fostering Community and Continuity
Strengthening Ties Through Service Initiatives
Beyond academics, Old Rochester Regional High School is placing a renewed emphasis on community involvement, positioning the school as a central hub for the surrounding towns. Principal Devoll highlights the importance of students giving back through service, citing inspiring examples such as football team members volunteering during local events like Harbor Days. This act of service sets a powerful precedent, encouraging other student groups to engage in similar efforts and fostering a culture of civic responsibility. The school plans to expand these opportunities, aiming to integrate community service into the student experience as a way to build stronger connections with the local area. Such initiatives are expected to cultivate a sense of pride and ownership among students, reinforcing the idea that their contributions can make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Ensuring Stability with Staff and Student Support
Another key pillar of the school’s strategy is the stability provided by a returning, experienced teaching staff, with no new hires for the current year. This continuity ensures a predictable and reassuring environment for all grade levels, particularly for new students adjusting to high school life. Devoll emphasizes the role of the ambassador club, a group of 70 students who wear red shirts on the first day to assist freshmen with navigation and create a welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, returning students benefit from familiar faces among staff and mentors, reinforcing a sense of reliability throughout their academic journey. This focus on consistency is seen as vital for maintaining student confidence, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans feel supported as they navigate their respective challenges. The blend of established staff and peer support systems highlights the school’s dedication to creating a nurturing space where every student can thrive.
