Dr. Nelson’s Blog

As I have recently posted the long list of colleges and universities already accepting our graduating seniors (66 institutions and still counting) I expect to hear from some of you about sharing our secrets for such great levels of acceptances in the great schools in the U.S. and abroad.

There is no secret, really. From a recent study comes the following: “High schools that provide all students with high-level courses, qualified teachers, flexible teaching styles, and extra tutorial support are more successful in preparing their students for college and work, according to a new study by ACT and The Education Trust. The study defines, for the first time, the specific rigorous academic skills that need to be taught in English, math, and science courses for high school graduates to be ready for college and work.” from http://www.act.org/news/releases/2005/2-23-05.html

High-level, college-oriented content in core courses—All schools offered coherent sequences of courses focused on college-readiness content at a level beyond most state and district standards.

Qualified and experienced teachers—All of the teachers were certified in their subject area, and nearly all had a Master’s degree or higher with at least one degree in their subject area.

Teaching that is flexible and responsive to students—Most teachers frequently asked and answered questions and checked for student understanding. In classroom discussions and lectures, they helped students make meaningful connections to the content by using examples that had meaning to students, making reference to prior learning, current events and popular culture.

Out of classroom support for students—Students were provided with extra support outside the classroom through tutors, teachers, and other helpers, including peers and adults from the community. Teachers offered help outside of class and reminded students that they were available for assistance.

Of course, there are many other factors (e.g., excellent SAT scores, high grade point averages, a bevy of extra-curricular activities, true community service, etc.). But, for the most part, the excellent faculty combined with the relevant curriculum and student support forms a flexible, coherent program for success.
Today I asked a 13 year veteran faculty member (who will remain nameless) for a sound bite as to why it is worth the tuition dollars to send a child to St. John’s School. “We prepare everybody from the valedictorian to the last person in the class for entrance into university,” she replied. “Even the kids who are not academic stars come back and say ‘Don’t change anything – I feel really prepared’.” There – the secret is out – everyone is prepared to do well after high school.

Go Knights!