Page 7 - Priorities #36 2007-January Annual Report

What a banner year 2005 - 2006 was for Woodside Priory! All indicators say that the Priory as an educational institution is (to borrow a business management term) “up and to
the right.” In the first semester of 2006-2007, those indicators are still strong. Here are a few achievements over the past 18 months.
• In spring 2006, we achieved the maximum accreditation (6 years) from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, following a through self-examination and on-campus scrutiny by a visiting team of educators.
• In the Middle School, a concentrated effort to revitalize and consolidate the curriculum last year has paid off this year. “Core classes” –extended blocks of time to concentrate on language arts and academic skill-building—were created. Students’ standardized test scores this fall show very positive results, and faculty feedback is equally positive.
• High School students have a broader variety of elective classes to choose from. They are attaining a richer community service experience since
the program was integrated with classroom academics. Students now have more time for preparation, personal reflection and classroom discussions about issues of social justice.
Tim Molak
Head of School
From the Head of School
• Last year, the faculty took a hard look at homework assignments and scheduling during the school day in an effort to reduce student stress. We are watching this year to see if the changes are effective.
• We continue to be a first-choice, highly regarded college prep school on the mid- Peninsula. We continue to expand our international community and
maintain those ties. As we are able to build our endowment and scholarship funds, we look forward to sharing a Priory education with an increasingly diverse student body.
We are being guided this year by a new booklet, Being Benedictine, published by our parent abbey, Saint Anselm College and Abbey. It is an insightful look at how monastic and lay people live out the Rule of Saint Benedict and the meaning of its values. I see everyone in the Priory community—trustees, parents, students, faculty and staff—helping to support this goal. The vignettes throughout this annual report offer just a glimpse of the ubiquitous sharing of personal time, talents and treasures. With this foundation, we will be all we can be. I thank you for all that you do.
The vignettes throughout this annual report offer just a glimpse of the ubiquitous sharing of personal time, talents and treasures.
• We continue to work with B-E-NET, the international Benedictine educators’ association. See our story on Father Francis Shawa,
pages 4-5.
• The new Academic Resource Center, now in its second year, is a huge asset. A learning specialist and counselor provide one-on-one support for all students. This team also helps teachers and parents offer effective support.
Peace,
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