Each of our secondary school communities continually meets the high standards and high academic achievement we place on our administration, staff and students. The high success rates for the Grade 9 EQAO Math test and the Grade 10 Literacy test are just prime examples of how well our students do. Celebrations of daily success is highlighted through internal awards, graduation awards, and many scholarships. While a majority of our students easily achieve academic success, some of our students require additional support and resources. There is a wide spectrum of students that are monitored by our Student Success Teacher and the Student Success Team. This allows for students to receive the support they need to be successful. Student support is available for all, but is necessary for some. As a school community we continuously support those that are in need, and celebrate the success of all of our students.

Every secondary school within the Halton Catholic DSB has an in-school Student Success Team that is comprised of the following:

· Administrator

· Student Success Teacher

· Representative from Special Education Dept.

· Representative from the Guidance Dept.

· Representative from the Literacy Team

· Representative from the Numeracy Team

· Representative from the Pathways Team

The Student Success Team meets regularly to work together to develop strategies to assist students with their individual needs.

The Student Success Team is responsible for two primary functions

1. To develop school procedures and models for the effective delivery of all student success initiatives.

2. To track, co-ordinate, and assume responsibility for at-risk students through the Student Success Teacher

Student Success students have the opportunity to . . .

· Benefit from individualized attention and support

· Choose from more options for learning, such as expanded co-operative education, Specialist High Skills Majors, dual credits and e-learning

· Seek help in solving problems they previously may have faced alone.

1. HOMEWORK

Homework, even if routine, should not be viewed as optional, any more than is an assignment or project at your place of work.

2. BE A CHEERLEADER

Some children do poorly in school because they see themselves as unworthy. For a child to feel good about learning, he/she must first feel good about himself/herself. Encourage your child by praising him for their efforts. Express interest in school work.

3. MAKE NO EXCUSES

Avoid giving your child a reason for making excuses. Even if you think your child will feel better if you do so, never say this sort of thing: "Some people just don't have a head for math." Your child may think that you think she/he isn't able to handle a task. Success in a future job will require your child to do the best she/he can. You will not help your child by encouraging her to make excuses whenever it is convenient.

4. LIGHT A FIRE

Be enthusiastic! It can be contagious. Don't give the message that homework is a boring chore. Children who do well enjoy learning. If your child does not seem motivated to do well in school, try to find ways to make the learning fun.

5. MAKE LEARNING "REAL"

The best learning is hands‑on. Show how school work skills are needed and used in day to day life. For example, a child who helps make a meal learns fractions, telling time, reading and multistep problem solving. Show your child what is under the hood when you work on the car. Ask for "help" when you balance the checkbook or write "thank you" notes and letters. Have your child jot down notes, reminders and shopping lists.

6. FIGHT THE FRUSTRATION

Listen carefully when your child talks about having difficulty with his homework.

Encourage him to break down problems into small steps. Get to know your child's teachers and what they expect.