Final Exams?????

This evening, the subject of final exams was discussed by a group of people that were curious why we give them. There are any number of reasons for giving and not giving final exams at the high school level. There are those who feel that they prepare you for college. There are those who feel that finals are the true indicator of what you learned from a course. On the other hand, there are those who feel that the only purpose they serve is to lower grades at the end of the year. Other schools do not mandate finals. Why do we? Why can't seniors be excused? The list of questions and opinions that were shared tonight goes on and on. In February, we will create a small team of students, teachers, and administrators to discuss the topic of final exams at Athens High School. Until then, I would like to hear your feelings regarding final exams. Why should we continue mandating them or why should we modify or discontinue them? BTW - Good luck on your finals this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Winter Is Here!

We all know that winter driving conditions can be dangerous. The problem with winter driving is that we often feel rushed, just like during warmer weather, and we forget to give ourselves extra time. The weather in central Illinois is unpredictable! Today was the first real taste of winter conditions that we have experienced thus far, and there were several cars in the ditches by 8:30am. The blacktop, Route 29, the Post Road, and the numerous country roads that our students, parents, and employees drive everyday are prone to poor conditions. It is easy to say "remember to give yourselves extra time each morning." In reality, it is difficult to get everyone out the door on time every day. I have two grade school children and every morning is a different adventure. With this in mind, I plan to give my family a little extra time each morning to make it out the door. I hope you will all do the same. Drive safely and enjoy the upcoming holiday season.