Paxon
School for Advanced Studies is an academic studies magnet with a
culturally diverse student body. School goals go beyond concern
for academic standards and include creating life-long learners who
are caring, committed to excellence and driven by integrity and
confidence. Staff at Paxon strive to foster in their students an
appreciation for the arts in addition to proficiency with technology.
They encourage students to become pragmatic dreamers. All stakeholders
support the rigors of the curriculum and high academic standards.
Instructional methods are fairly traditional. A careful review of
each student takes place prior to attending to make sure his or
her educational needs can be best met at Paxon.
Results: Paxon was identified by Newsweek
as one of the top performing high schools in the nation.
Practices that Promote High Performance:
- Balancing life skills and academic goals; fostering life-long
learning in students
- A shared sense of purpose by all stakeholders with regard to
high academic standards
- Attention given to matching student needs to opportunities at
Paxon
Parents play
a vital role in the success of students - beginning with admission.
Staff stresses to parents throughout the application process their
need to be conscientious in supporting the school, as well as their
own student's intellectual pursuits. Parents are encouraged to stay
involved in learning utilizing school and tutoring resources as
needed. An Open House and monthly newsletter outline expectations
and keep parents informed throughout the year. Parents welcome feedback
about their student's academic performance as an opportunity to
make sure they are on track and make adjustments as needed. An active
Parent Teacher Organization and School Improvement Team allow additional
opportunities for communication and input from parents who feel
fortunate to be part of the academic environment.
Results: School Grade: 2002 A; 2003 A.
Practices that Promote High
Performance:
- Expectations for parent involvement shared from day one
- Lines of communication open between teachers and parents to
include frequent feedback regarding student progress
- Parents afforded opportunities to stay informed and involved
in decision making
With academic standards high, staff at Paxon have taken the time
to make sure additional supports are in place. Staff are proactive
in screening for any skill areas that might make it more difficult
for students to be successful, with the school going to great lengths
to remediate students and move them forward. Particular attention
is given to students in grade nine, so they will move ahead with
a solid set of skills as they face the rigorous curriculum including
AP and IB coursework. Remedial programs are available on Saturdays.
Students are also given an opportunity to take two language arts
classes in their first year, if needed, with reading, comprehension,
and vocabulary being emphasized. CRISS strategies are incorporated
into the curriculum and note taking skills are taught as necessary.
Students help decide how they would like to be recognized for their
school achievement and recently chose a school carnival. Students
are also recognized through awards programs at the end of the school
year.
Results: Students who are prepared
and motivated to achieve at the highest levels.
Practices that Promote High Performance:
- Building in support for students facing high academic standards
- Strengthening skills, such as reading, that support student
success in rigorous courses
- Students involved in decisions involving recognition of their
achievements
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