Coalition for Glen Cove

Maria Reyes introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Edward Thomas, who is the new high school vice-principal.  He comes to the Glen Cove School District from Elmont Memorial High School where he held various positions such as social studies teacher, class advisor and Dean of Students.  He is presently pursuing a doctoral degree in Instructional Leadership at St. John’s University.

Mr. Thomas began by discussing the current ninth grade teaming.  At this time, there are three ninth grade teams, two of which have Academic Intervention Services (AIS).   Richard Tortorici inquired about the philosophy of teaming.  Thomas explained that teaming creates a small learning environment providing teachers with the opportunity to pre- and post- teach.  The intent of teaming is to have all students pass the regents exams, as well as, to improve truancy and cutting.  Leslie Whitely asked if 9^th grade cutting was an issue in Glen Cove in prior years.  Thomas stated that ninth grade is typically a very difficult year. Carol Sucharski asked if the ninth grade students who are on the same team are scheduled for the same academic classes.  Thomas clarified that students on the same team are not blocked for the same classes.

Helen Kotzky feels that people are not familiar with the Advanced Placement (AP) programs.  Leslie Whitely raised the concern of students doing well in the AP class, but perform less than adequately on the AP exam.  Thomas explained that the AP exam is curved which makes it very difficult to predict.  He said the advantage in taking an AP course lies in how the colleges will look favorably on the student who chooses such a rigorous course.  Glen Cove currently offers 11 AP courses.  Two proposed AP courses for the 2004/2005 school year are AP Music Theory and AP Studio Art.

Thomas is presently serving on the Glen Cove Curriculum Committee.  He has been assigned to the study skills sub-committee.  He is currently investigating other schools that have implemented study skills programs.  The sub-committee is searching for a program that is best suited for Glen Cove needs.

The issues surrounding the Math A and Math B courses were discussed.  Of particular concern is the length of each course, which is a year and a half each.

Donald Scarl asked Mr. Thomas if he had any budgetary concerns.  Mr. Thomas did request an electronic device for the media arts classes.  He doesn’t think it’ll be an issue.

Mr. Thomas thanked the Coalition for inviting him to speak.

Minutes submitted by Maria Reyes