Hello, I am very happy to return for my 34th year of teaching at Olivet High School.   This year, I will be teaching classes of Algebra 1  and Pre-Calculus with the goal of preparing students to work in effectively in an increasingly complicated world.     Students should graduate from OHS ready to pursue life goals in higher education, technical school, military service or self employment.

The plans may be different but the ability to develop number number sense, work effectively with number systems and measurement, and  develop logical thinking and problem solving skills will be critical for all.  Mathematics is key to success on many levels.  I am glad that you, student or parent, are on this journey with me.

I've worked my entire professional life at Olivet High School,  lived in Olivet for 30 years, and graduated 2 sons and 2 daughters from Olivet.  There may have been some problems and disappointments along the way but I believe in these teachers and this school and I believe in my neighbors,  this city and its surrounding community.   We care about your kid and will push them to do their best.  If you find any problems or are disappointed in any way as a parent, please email me at smithr@olivetschools.org.  If you see any problems as a student, please talk to me or send me an email.   Thank you.

Communication Plan-

Late Work Policy:   Daily benchmarks that tell exactly what your child should be doing each day are provided on the front page of the google classroom.  If they hit those daily benchmarks,  they will be on track.   The homework assignments are DUE at the end of the unit when we take our test.   A unit takes at least 2 weeks so this is enough time for anyone to catch up from confusion or illness.

Communication from me:

 Parents, I will keep you informed with group mailings from Skyward and individual messages from the school gmail.  Occasionally, I will also call directly.

Students, I will post daily benchmarks (the work of the day) and any announcements in a link to the daily agenda  found in the stream on the first page of our google classroom.  You are responsible for checking that stream every day if you are working from home for whatever reason.  I try to post ahead several days but plans change and you need to check each day to see the current plan.     

Communication to me:

Parents, email is the most efficient way to get ahold of me.  I am in class most of the day.    If you prefer a phone call, an email is the best way to arrange  a contact time that works for us both.    The OHS office number is 269-749-3671.    My email is smithr@olivetschools.org

Students:  TALK TO ME!  That is the fastest way to resolve most problems.  Feel free to email.