A new approach to senior year at Massapequa High School

By Carolyn James A new approach to looking at senior year is being explored by the Massapequa School District. Educators said that instead of having the year driven by minimal requirements, they are hoping that students will use their final year as a time to become better prepared for college. “We want to work to change the thinking of parents and students about senior year,” said Sue Woodbury, assistant superintendent, elementary level. “We think our students should use this time to prepare themselves for the rigor of college.” Any new courses approved by the school board will mean some additional costs and School Board member Christine Perrino raised that point, saying that new programs mean new curriculum writing, new text books and a shift in personnel, all of which will add to the bottom line. “My concern is that this is going to be a difficult year and as much as I would like to offer more to students, I am being realistic about it.” Woodbury explained that some of the new courses would replace others that are not attracting many students, or that are not meeting the needs of college-bound students today. Superintendent of Schools Charles Sulc said administrators will come to the board for an approval, likely later this month, when they expect to have more information, including a report on what new programs might interest students and what additional costs they will incur, if any. Watch this week's edition of the Massapequa Post for more detailed story.