By Jennifer Telecky, Hutchinson High School Principal
Even though it feels like school just started, we are just a couple of weeks away from the first grading period at Hutchinson High School. As we are finishing the trimester, I wanted to take a moment to highlight the importance of our partnership in shaping the education and growth of our students. At Hutchinson High School, we firmly believe that collaboration between parents and educators is the key to the success and full potential of our students. Education is a shared responsibility, and your role as parents is invaluable in supporting and reinforcing the learning experiences that take place at Hutchison High School
Communication is Key
As partners in education, we encourage open lines of communication. We value your insights, concerns, and feedback, and we are dedicated to working together to address any challenges that may arise. Sometimes the problem or struggle is noticeable and we reach out to parents to problem solve. Other times it is less noticeable and educators count on parents to reach out to us. Parent-teacher conferences used to be the main time for this communication; however, conferences at the high school are not well-attended. This makes email and phone communication even more important.
Engage in Academics
HHS encourages your active involvement in your child’s education. Ask your kids questions about classes, grades, and upcoming deadlines. By engaging in their academic journey, you not only demonstrate the importance of learning, but also provide invaluable support and encouragement. Whether it’s helping with homework, attending school events, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations about their day, your involvement sends a powerful message that education is a priority. Since we are close to the start of trimester 2, ask your child about their upcoming classes. Ask what they are excited about. If they are not looking forward to a class, encourage them to meet with their counselor and look for another option.
Supportive Environment
At Hutchinson High School, we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where every child can be successful. By working hand in hand, we can create a positive and supportive place for your kids, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Again, communication is key – when there is a problem or concern, we don’t always know. We want all students to feel safe and feel good about coming to school and we will work to make that happen.
One current area of concern that has had a negative impact on the educational environment is cell phone use. This is definitely an area where educators and parents need to work together. Teachers see first hand the negative effects on students’ learning environment and academic performance even with a school cell phone policy in place. Cell phones can be a significant source of distraction for students. This can result in incomplete assignments, poor time management, and a lack of focus on learning. At HHS, the goal is not to completely eliminate cell phone use but to establish a healthy balance and promote responsible usage. By setting clear boundaries and providing guidance, you can help kids develop a healthy relationship with their cell phones and ensure they can focus on learning at school.
We look forward to a successful educational partnership during the 2023-24 school year!
