 August 17, 2009
Dear Ninth Grade Parents and Families: I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for helping us get off to a great start to the 2009 - 2010 school year. Even with a few challenges, the first week went extremely well and I am excited about what the future holds for LCHS. Speaking of what the future holds, I wanted to let you know about our "0 Block" program, which will begin on Monday, August 24th. The details in this letter outline our "0 Block" remediation and enrichment program. I discussed the program details with your child on the first day of school, and I wanted to follow that discussion up with a mailing to you regarding the details as well. "0 Block" is held from 8:07-8:40 each morning and is used as a time for students to receive additional assistance in their classes, to complete homework, to study for a test, or to engage in enrichment activities beyond the regular curriculum. This program, which was implemented last spring at LCHS, permits teachers to work with students who they feel need the extra help as well as with students who are interested in expanding their knowledge about a certain topic. The way "0 Block" works is very simple. Teachers will identify students who need additional assistance and sign those students up for one or more "0 Blocks" per week. Classes are typically smaller during "0 Block" than during a regular class, which permits teachers to provide more one-on-one help. If a teacher assigns a student "0 Block", that student will be required to attend that "0 Block" for at least 4 1/2 weeks. At the end of that time, the teacher will decide whether to release the student from "0 Block" or reenroll him/her for another 4 1/2 weeks. A teacher does not have to sign up a student for "0 Block" in order for a student to get additional help. If a student is having difficulty with his/her homework or needs to make up a quiz, that student can go to his/her teacher's "0 Block" for just that period to get the extra help needed. Also, during "0 Block" we offer programs such as test preparation for state and national licensure tests, SAT prep classes, and workshops on college and career choices. A student may not have a "0 Block" every day of the week. On the days when a student does not have a 0 Block, he/she may go to the annex gym, to the commons area, the library, or to a computer lab. If they have transportation, students can choose to come to school at 8:40 on the days they do not have a scheduled "0 Block". I would ask that you speak with your child about "0 Block". All students will be receiving a "0 Block" schedule on Friday, August 21
"0 Block" provides a great opportunity for your child to get the additional assistance they might need in order to be successful. I have placed some frequently asked questions on the back of this letter, but if you have additional questions about "0 Block", please do not hesitate to call me. I will be glad to talk with you about the program. Sincerely, J. Douglas Straley, Principal
FAQ'S ABOUT "0" BLOCK
1. When will "0" Block be held?
"0" Block will be held from 8:07 am-8:40 am each day. 2. Who assigns my child to a "0" Block? Teachers will assign students to "0" Block. If a student has a D or an F, he/she will be assigned to attend at least one "0" Block per week for that class. Other students may be assigned at the teacher's discretion. A student may also request to see a teacher during "0" Block if they have questions about an assignment or if they would like to make-up a test or other assignment . 3. What if my child is assigned to a "0" Block and does not attend?
If a student has been assigned to "0" Block, it is mandatory that they attend. If a student does not attend an assigned "0" Block and is at school, the student will be referred to the administration for skipping class. 4. What if my child is not assigned to a "0" Block on a certain day?Students not assigned to a "0" Block may go to the library, the annex gymnasium, the commons, use the computer labs, or do homework in one of the assigned areas. Also, a student who does not have a "0 Block" does not have to arrive to school until 8:40 am.
5. Other than remediation, what other programs will be offered during "0" Block?
We will be offering certification prep courses for classes such as Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, and Nursing. We will also offer an SAT Prep class four times per week. The guidance department will also offer scholarship application assistance during this time. Several teachers also offer enrichment classes during this period of time.
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