CHS Principal's Blog

CHS Ambassador Program

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:26:00 +0000

Parents, community members, and visitors entering the main foyer of the high school are greeted by a ten-foot tall school symbol under the word ‘Welcome’. This display was generously donated by the CHS Alumni Association, and exemplifies the philosophy that I believe our school should demonstrate to everyone walking through our doors.

Until now, once a visitor enters the building, they would enter the Main Office to sign in, drop off materials forgotten by their sons and daughters, or wait for their appointment with guidance, administration, or teachers. In the office are two secretaries that work hard to be the primary interface for the school, answering almost all of the phone calls to the school, giving directions, and greeting visitors. As they do this, students that are sent out of class are waiting to meet with Mr. McDeed, our sole assistant principal. Too frequently, the student must wait, as Mr. McDeed spends a significant amount of time out in the building speaking with students, assigning detentions, and supervising the building. Occasionally, these students are distraught or visibly angry as they struggle with what seems to be an every-increasing level of emotional, social, and academic needs. While counselors are often summoned to the main office by the secretaries to help the student, there is always a time when they wait.

In some instances, visitors are present as these students sitting in the main office, and can witness the raw emotion that all adolescents can demonstrate. For parents and visitors that only enter the building infrequently, even one observation of an upset student waiting can give a negative and inaccurate impression of what I know is an outstanding school. For the student, being observed by a visitor is embarrassing and can sometimes exacerbate the emotions he or she is experiencing.

I have been speaking with Mr. McDeed and the secretaries about this for a while, and while it might appear easy to relocate Mr. McDeed’s office to another location in the building, it would create logistical and staffing challenges. Instead, through conversations with Mrs. Bromfield, Mrs. Dickie, and Mrs. Sullivan, we began to examine ways to help resolve the problem described above that incorporates students as part of the solution. We quickly called together an initial group of staff to brainstorm ideas to these challenges, and I would like to recognize them:

Mr. Amico

Mrs. Bauman

Mrs. Bromfield

Mrs. Dickie

Mr. Dimitriou

Mr. McDeed

Mr. Rubin

Mr. Silva

Mr. Stich

Mrs. Sullivan

From this group, the Student Ambassador Program was created, planned, and is now beginning implementation.

Beginning in January, in each period, two students identified as Student Ambassadors will be located at a desk in the Main Foyer to greet visitors, oversee the sign-in process, and give directions.

While I have spent a significant amount of time explaining the technical details and rationale involved in the creation of the Ambassador Program, what I am particularly happy about is our belief that it will have a greater and more important impact on the school. Initially, the objective of this program may have been a method to better support visitors and parents, but we have come to realize that the real value is to allow students to increase and develop pride in their school by giving them the opportunity to demonstrate real responsibility. All CHS students with studies are eligible to participate in this program, and while some may be recommended by staff, students wishing to be an Ambassador should see stop by the main office and leave their name with one of the secretaries.

As details developed, more staff was enlisted, and I would like to recognize them as well, including:

Mrs. Blake
Mrs. Bolduc

Mrs. Mathews

Mr. Nelson

Mrs. Potter

Mrs. Stoltz

Mr. Turner

In addition, Mr. Crosbie enlisted the students and his CAD class, who interviewed the secretaries and myself before developing and reconfiguring moveable components inside the main office to help address the issue. Students in the wood shop cleaned an unused tool cabinet, and custodians found chairs and a table. Approval by the Canton Fire Chief and Building Inspector was obtained to make sure that the desks would not impact building safety, and we are now in the process of training and scheduling students.

I am very pleased and proud of those involved, and as this program becomes part of the CHS landscape, will assist office staff, increase school pride, appropriately demonstrate the quality of students we have at CHS, and accurately reinforce the sign donated by the Alumni: Welcome.

Please Give Blood

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:34:00 +0000

I just received a flyer (yes, principals work during school vacations) that I want to share, and while I don't believe that this Blog should be used for advertizing, thing this cause is worthy:

There is a American Red Cross Blood Drive sponsored by Dunkin' Brands, Inc, on Tuesday, January 5, 2012 from 10:00am-4:pn in the Training Room at 130 Royall Street in Canton.

The flyer states that all presenting donors will receive a coupon for a free pound of DD coffee.

Call 1-800=RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visisit www.redcrossblood.org (sponsor code 7276) and schedule an appointment today. You can also contact Stephanie Kenney at 781-737-3603 pr stephanie.kenney@dunkinbrands.com for more information.

The hours obviously will keep CHS students from participating in this specific drive, but please know that our Student Council sponsors a blood drive in May that allows any eligible students to give a pint.

Praise for the Winter Concert

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:35:00 +0000

Hi Folks,
It is 9:15pm, and I just left the Winter Performing Arts Concert, and heard an amazing amount of praise and joy from parents and alumni for the growth of our program. I asked two graduates their opinions, and they both admitted that this year was better than previous, and they were in the band; I see this as another fine example of our Continuous Improvement Core Value. Sarah Collmer and Brian Thomas are both to be commended for the work that they have put into the students- the professionalism and hard work they model was reflected on stage by the students.

Prior to the Concert, I was able to listen to the twelve students performing their solo 'auditions' for the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Their performance is a critical step in the acceptance process, and an authentic assessment of what they have learned. Each was impressive, and obviously worked very hard to prepare for this high-stress performance.

I want to also thank the faculty that attended the concert- students truly appreciate the support you demonstrate in coming to their night events. I realize that it is sometimes difficult after doing the most important work in the world: teaching, but having staff attend events strengthens the relationships between students, staff, and the school.

Finally, I want to thank MusicCounts for their support for the district performing arts programs. Solid high school programs sit on the shoulders of strong elementary and middle school curriculum, and in tough financial times, MusicCounts has helped us weather the storm.

Staff Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:02:00 +0000

Teachers and staff know this, but there are limits and rules set by the state regarding gifts to teachers. If parents are looking to find out the specifics, I suggest you go here:
http://www.mass.gov/ethics/gifts-to-public-school-teachers-and-staff.html

Simply stated, teachers and staff cannot accept any gifts from individuals worth over $50, and any gifts valued at less than that amount must be documented.

Defiant Kids Can Be More Than Angry or Insolent

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 23:43:00 +0000

This article appeared online today, and I feel compelled to share. While I have frequently defined an adolescent as a ball of emotions wrapped in skin, I also believe that the emotion that they are demonstrating are not always proof of what they are thinking. This article seems to support this:

Why

Grade 8 Parent/Student Orientation Night Dec. 14

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:54:00 +0000

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students of the Class of 2016,

We wish to extend your first official welcome to the Canton High School! As you near the mid-point of your eighth grade year, we are looking forward to your becoming a part of our high school community in September. Canton High School is a wonderful school designed to meet the needs of students of all abilities by providing a rigorous academic program, in addition to a broad range of elective offerings, and numerous extra-curricular opportunities. Please know that students are encouraged to attend this night with their parents.

So that you may learn about the high school, the CHS administration, staff, and students are presenting a program on Wednesday, December 14, 2010, beginning at 6:30 pm in our auditorium. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions about the high school and the many options that will soon become available to you. The administration, academic department heads, athletic director, and director of guidance will each give a brief overview of the ninth grade experience, and also talk about course expectations and the differences between levels at the high school. You will then break into smaller groups and have an opportunity to tour our facility and hear from faculty and students about our many exciting academic, elective, and extra-curricular programs. There will also be opportunities to talk informally with department heads and administrators. Please be aware that this event involves guided tours of the building. Our building is large, and I recommend that comfortable shoes be considered.

To access the entire CHS Program of Studies, please refer to the high school website. It can be found at http://www.cantonma.org/chs

If you are considering private school, we especially encourage you to join us on December 14, to see the rich learning opportunities offered by Canton High School so you can make an informed decision regarding your child’s education.

Students, of course, are welcome to join their parents on this night. We look forward to seeing you!

Sincerely,

Dr. Douglas Dias

Principal

Thank You for Conference Night

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 20:43:00 +0000

I sent this email to the teachers following conference night last night. A teacher, thoughtfully and appropriately, suggested that the same message be sent to parents. I completely agree, and rather than write a separate email, I realize that it perfectly captures what I want parents to know about last night, so here it is, in its original form:

Hi All,
I just want to acknowledge and thank you for your energy and fine work during parent-teacher conference night. While some of the conversations may have been difficult and all-too brief, the fact that over 1700 appointments for more than a half of our student body demonstrates the value that parents put in communication with teachers.

Parents and teachers want the same thing: for students to learn. Parents are incredible allies when we communicate frequently and involve them in the learning process.

One of our Core Values is Respectful and Responsible Relationships. This Value is not just for students and staff, but the entire school community. To establish and enforce this Core Value requires communication, and should not be left to conference nights, progress reports. and report cards. Successful and productive relationships between parents and teachers develop through frequent communication, and grows more easily when the conversations and email exchanges are on the successes of the students. If a parent-teacher relationship is already established, it is much easier for both parties to discuss problems with student progress.

Last night, in conversations with parents, several shared that teachers communicated regularly, and truly appreciated the caring and concern in such contact.

Again, thank you for making Parent-Teacher Conference Night a success.

Sincerely

Doug

ps- a lot of parents were unable to schedule appointments due to full schedules. I told those in that situation to contact teachers directly, but if there were any parents that you wish you had seen, but did not make it to conference night last night, please reach out to them.

Conference Night Parent Sign-Ups Are Open

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:24:00 +0000

Parent-Teacher Conference Night is Thursday, October 27th. Appointments can be scheduled between the hours of 3 and 5 pm as well as 6 to 8 pm.

To schedule a meeting, please go here:
http://chs.schoolappointments.com/

and click Register.

If you need help, you can click Help.

If you do not have access to the internet, you can call 781-821-5050 x2885 and leave a message. Please provide:
Your name
the name of your child
the name(s) of the teacher with whom you would like an appointment
your email address (if you have one- to send you your schedule)
your phone number (in case there are any questions).

Please realize that some teachers have full schedules, and it may not be possible to schedule an appointment on that night. You always have the option of contacting teachers directly if you have any question or concerns. A full list of contact information can be found here:
http://www.edline.net/pages/CantonHighSchool/AboutCHS/Faculty_Staff

Bus Pass Enforcement

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:27:00 +0000

Dear Canton High School Parents, Guardians and Students,

If your child takes the bus to school, please make sure that they have a valid 2011-2012 Bus Pass. The final distribution of bus passes took place today during a homeroom period.

This is the final reminder that all students that take a bus to school must have a valid 2011-2012 Bus Pass. If your child does not have a bus pass they will be denied access beginning on the morning of October 24, 2011.

Also, please remember that a valid bus pass is required for students to take the late bus home. Our late-bus procedure is posted on our web site, and can be easily accessed, by clicking HERE.

Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Community Presentation of Race to Nowhere Oct 25th.

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:58:00 +0000

Don't miss the opportunity to attend a public screening of the movie Race to Nowhere on Tuesday, October 25th at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Auditorium.

This film has been shown nationally in an effort to examine the pressures faced by students, teachers and parents in a world that focuses on high demands and successes. This documentary features stories of students across the country, who have felt the pressure to be successful while trying to balance school, homework, extracurricular activities, friends, family and work. The development and national screenings of Race to Nowhere provide an effort to raise awareness, create a dialogue and empower everyone to take action in homes, school, and communities. This film was screened by the public in many local communities in late spring and it continues on the circuit this fall and winter. We need to prepare our young people for the world. This film illustrates the extremes some go to in order for our children to be successful.

This Canton Community event is free, but we would appreciate you registering (so that we have a total count) by going to the link: http://rtncantonhsma.eventbrite.com/

We hope to see all of you next Tuesday, Oct. 25th!

Parent-Teacher Conference Night

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 11:17:00 +0000

Conference Night is Thursday, October 27. We will be using an online scheduling system again, after the very favorable feedback from parents last year. I will post details here by this Friday, so check back!

Dismissals

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:47:00 +0000

In school folklore, there are jokes about students calling to dismiss themselves, masking their voice in an attempt to pretend that they are a parent. In other instances, notes have stated "Please dismiss my son from school today. Signed, My Mom."

While such stories are humorous, and may even be based on truth, we never want a student to be dismissed without a parent's knowledge.

As the Canton community knows, we hold student safety as our first priority, and have procedures to help us ensure that everyone is protected from unsafe situations. One important procedure is for dismissals- if you wish your child to be dismissed, please send in a note in the morning, fax one prior to the dismissal time (followed by a phone call), or come into the office and sign them out of school. We want to make sure that your child is being dismissed with a parent's permission, as phone calls do not consistently provide us with proof that the caller is who they claim.

For the sake of safety, we sometimes call parents when there is a question on the legitimacy of a note. At some point in the school year in every school in America, a student could submit a note that appears to be signed by a parent when, in fact, it is a forgery. When we do call and check, in most situations the questioned note is legitimate, the result of a parent quickly writing a last-minute note (fyi- the dimpled dashboard of some cars is a terrible place to write- it makes all notes look like they were written by an eight-year-old in the dark).

All submitted notes are kept on file, and sometimes used for comparison with a quickly scrawled signature on a questionable note.

Please help us keep our children safe, and our front office sane, by sending in a note prior to dismissal or coming into the building to personally sign them out. Thank you.

Water's Okay to Drink- and Thank You!

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 01:31:00 +0000

The water is back on in Canton, and I want to thank the students, faculty, staff, and parents for their patience during this prolonged period of limited water usage. Several communities in the state have to deal with a 'boil water' alert from their respective boards of health, and Canton seemed to handle it better than most. Schools use a lot of water, and while the hallway fountains were covered, everyone seemed to do the best that they could. I want to commend our athletic director, Danny Erickson, for being proactive in seeking water for student athletes as well as Martha Lawless and her food-service department for quickly altering the lunch menus to maintain healthy (and safe) options.

CHS Open House a Success!

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 01:37:00 +0000

Click HERE for a copy of the slides I presented to parents tonight. I am soliciting parents to help us with our re- accreditation, and wanted to explain the process.

Turnout was high, based on teacher accounts.

I just want to thank Student Council students for helping lost parents find their classes, and the students from the music program supporting Music Counts. They kept the Main Foyer filled with song and laughter all night long.

Also, thanks to CAPE and the Athletic Booster Parents, who manned tables to support our school.

Finally, I want to thank the teachers and staff- the feedback by parents was outstanding, and demonstrated the core values of the school so very well.

3rd Party Communications Opt-Out

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 21:03:00 +0000

The Superintendent has asked that the following letter be distributed to all parents in the district:

To view the letter, click HERE , or cut and past the link below into your browser:

http://www.edline.net/pages/CantonHighSchool/Forms/Forms/CommunicationPermissionForm

The Day Without Email

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 02:27:00 +0000

I just filed away all of my emails from the 2010-2011 school year. By that I mean that all of the emails that I sent or received between 9/1/2010 and 8/31/2011 have been placed in electronic hibernation. On a whim, I counted them. 26,122. Yes, over twenty-six thousand emails. I wonder- 20 years ago, when email was (believe it or not) only used by an exclusive few, did high school principals receive 26,000 phone calls each year? Perhaps mail? I seriously doubt it. Now that emails can be forwarded automatically to my cell phone, I cannot escape. Well- that is not exactly true. In an attempt to save battery life and my sanity, after 4 pm, I only synchronize my emails every four hours. It is an intentional email black-out.

During this last school year, on July 1, I went almost the entire day without receiving an email. I was, at first, confused. Was there a problem with the email server? I checked- nope. Was it a holiday? Again no. The 31 emails on July 4 would remind me that emails observe neither religious nor secular holidays. On July 1, around 6 pm, I actually began to believe that there was a chance that I might go an entire 24 hours without an email. Dinner came and went sans email. As the hours passed, I became slightly obsessed, checking more frequently. Nine pm passed. 10 pm. I felt I was watching the Pat's approach the final minutes of a game with a 1-point lead. Would I experience 24 hours without an email?

Sadly, the answer was no. At 10:58 pm, my phone burped, indicating that an email had arrived. Muttering, I wondered who would violate the perfect 'no-email' day. Embarrassingly, it was a retired staff member, thanking me for all that I had done for them. I sighed, and thought, if I was going to get a singular email on my email-free day, I am glad it was that one.

Postscript:
I just had my 16-year-old son read the text, above. I asked him how many emails he gets. And, bewilderingly, he replied, "I don't know." My confusion turned to stunned silence when he explained that he had not checked his email since his grandparents called on the phone to tell him that they sent him an email. They called him in July.

Mandatory Athletic Parent Night Sept 22.

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:07:00 +0000

Just a reminder that if your student is either currently playing or planning on participating in athletics at CHS any time this year, at least one parent or guardian must attend the presentation in the high school auditorium at 7:00 pm on September 22. The presentation will conclude no later than 8:30 pm.

Please arrive early to check in.

College Testing Information Night Postponed

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:02:00 +0000

The College Testing Planning Night presentation scheduled for Wednesday, September 21, 2011, has been postponed. Once a new date is selected, we will pass it along.

CHS Open House is Sept. 26

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:47:00 +0000

Our Open House begins at 6:30 pm in the auditorium, followed by an abbreviated schedule. Please check with your child and get their course schedule. To help make it easier, have your child complete this handy form by clicking HERE.

Each period will be 10 minutes in length, and give you an opportunity to meet and hear from your child's teachers. Please realize that this is not a night for individual parent conferences. If you wish to speak with your child's teachers, please contact them directly.

We look forward to seeing you at our Open House.

ps. This is a big building, and there will be a lot of walking. In preparation for the night, please drink lots of water and wear comfortable shoes. Seriously- each year the two most common remarks that I hear are "I love this school" and "My feet are killing me."

Grades 9 & 12 Parent Information Nights Sept 14.

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:43:00 +0000

There are two separate meetings this evening for parents of students in grades 9 and 12.

Grade 9 Parent'Guardian Meeting at 6:00 pm in the CHS Auditorium

Grade 12 Parent/Guardian Meeting at 7:15 pm in the CHS Auditorium

This night is for parents to meet their child's guidance counselor, ask questions, and get answers.

Fire Alarm Issue- Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:56:00 +0000

Attention All Students, Faculty and Staff.

Today was our first planned short-term evacuation of the building, formerly known as a ‘fire drill’. As you may be aware, during the drill, several problems with the fire alarm system developed. We have been directed to leave the building immediately upon the close of school today, Friday, September 9. The alarm company is working on repairing the system, but no one will be allowed back into the building until all problems have been resolved and the system tested.

What this means is that any weekend activities that require equipment normally stored in the building necessitate your taking it with you. If you need to get sports equipment for games or practices this weekend, please take it with you as you leave today the building today.

Tonight’ s home football game is still on, and we have permission for players to enter the building beginning at 4:30pm, but players and coaches must enter through the door near the staircase between B and C building.

Band members were planning on performing at tonight’s game, but due to the lack of a fire alarm, the band will not be performing.

We anticipate this problem to be resolved over the weekend. If the system is repaired and tested, resulting in our ability to allow people to access the building, this information will be posted on the CHS web site.

September 11, 2011 Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:08:00 +0000

Good morning, this is Dr. Dias.

Sunday, September 11, marks the tenth anniversary of a tragedy that continues to impact every American every day. While we are not at school on that date this year, I would like to take a moment for us to recognize this infamous anniversary.

September 11, 2001, was a Tuesday. Schools were open and functioning when the news came. The horror that unfolded was difficult to process, and impossible to comprehend. Even today, it is painful to think about the terror that so many people experienced. In the months and years that followed, our country banded together in a manner that I had never experienced or thought possible. While ten years have passed, and the resolve of the country is challenged by multiple wars, political strife, and a fragile economy, I would like you to pause for a moment and listen to how things changed for a group of elementary students that attended school in New York City. I chose this poem because, when written, they were about the same age as you were.

List of “Don’t Forgets” and “Remembers”

We were eight.

Before September 11th, we would wake up with a list of “Don’t Forgets”

Don’t forget to wash your face

Don’t forget to brush your teeth

Don’t forget to do your homework

Don’t forget to wear your jacket

Don’t forget to clean your room

Don’t forget to take a bath

After September 11th, we wake up with a list of “Remembers”

Remember to greet the sun each morning

Remember to enjoy every meal

Remember to thank your parents for their hard work

Remember to honor those who keep you safe

Remember to value each person you meet

Remember to respect other’s beliefs

Now we are nine.

None of us know the challenges we will face in the future, both individually and collectively, but please remember that you were once nine years old, are a part of a community that cares, and live in the greatest country on earth.

Please stand and join me in reciting our pledge to our flag and country.

Pause

I pledge allegiance

to the flag

of the United States of America,

and to the republic

for which it stands,

one nation

under God,

indivisible,

with liberty,

and justice

for all.

Please remain standing for an extended period of silence, and think of those that you care for, and ways that you can help make our world a better place for all.

Pause

Thank you. You may now be seated.

Those Nasty Mosquitos

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 17:12:00 +0000

In case you did not get this by phone today:
Good afternoon, this is Superintendent of Schools, Jeffrey Granatino, with a message about pesticide spraying. We have received requests from community leagues and our Athletic Department to spray various playing fields in order to help control the mosquito population. As a result of these requests, we have arranged with the Norfolk County Mosquito Control Project to provide this service at the following playing fields: John F. Kennedy Elementary School, Galvin Middle School and the Canton High School. Applications will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011. Information on the Norfolk County Mosquito Control Board, as well as Canton's indoor and outdoor IPM plans for each school can be found online at massnrc.org. Should you have any further questions, please contact Mr. Brian Lynch at 781-821-5060 (x-1130). Thank you and have a great day.

Grade 9 Homerooms

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 13:41:00 +0000

At CHS, Homerooms do not happen every day. Instead, we use homerooms to only distribute or collect information. This means that homerooms only meet 6-8 times per year. We will all begin school on September 6 and 7 in homerooms to hand out and collect the ubiquitous start-of-the-school-year paperwork. Just in case incoming grade 9 students do not remember their homerooms, here is the list:
Last Name Begins With         Homeroom #       Teacher Name
A-Casa                                 142                     Mr. Eromin
Casi-Di                                143                     Mr. A. Turner
Do-Gre                                146                     Mrs. Morgan
Gro-J                                   148                     Mrs. Byrne
K-McDonn                           151                    Ms. O'Connor
McDono-N                           173                   Ms. Mendez
O-P                                       243                  Ms. Ruozzi
R-Swan                                246                    Ms. Handman
Swar-Z                                 253                    Mr. Devoid

If you have Mrs. Stoltz as a teacher, her homeroom is in Room 138

Room numbers starting with 1 are on the first floor of the main building. Rooms starting with 2 are on the second floor.

I apologize for the poor alignment of columns, but I did not have time to figure out how to get them to line up neatly- Dr. Dias.

School Starts September 6!

noreply@blogger.com (CHSprincipal) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 22:28:00 +0000

Here is the text of a message I just sent home:

This is Dr. Dias, Principal of Canton High School. Canton High School will open as scheduled on Tuesday, September 6. Please be aware that due to the recent storm and subsequent power outage for the past five days at Canton High School, the Guidance staff has not had computer or voicemail access until Friday morning, September 2nd. We are making every effort to respond to all inquiries regarding schedules for the upcoming school year. Students must follow the schedule that will be issued on the first day of school and make appointments with their guidance counselors during a study hall or lunch to make any adjustments. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prepare for a successful 2011-2012 school year!

Please have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend.