September 2008

Dear Student,

Welcome to the Allentown High School family for the 2008-2009 school year. Allentown is proud of the academic excellence and numerous after-school activities, many of which obtained national and state recognition. As an incoming freshman or upperclassman, you are encouraged to work hard to do your very best, get involved in school activities, and embrace the tenets of character education such as mutual respect, responsibility and accountability, honesty and leadership. The more you get involved, the more rewarding the school experience.

Each year we review the handbook and take proactive measures to address current student and school needs. Make sure that you become familiar with the grading policy, code of conduct, the attendance policy, substance abuse possession or distribution penalties, parking expectations, graduation requirements, dress code, academic integrity policy, and the demerit system. In addition, strict observance of the non-smoking policy is expected. Failure to follow the code of conduct will result in stiff penalties as indicated in the demerit system. You are encouraged to read the handbook and to ask questions of any administrator or teacher. Changes will be reviewed the first week of school.

Allentown High School is a dynamic learning community that focuses on providing you with lifelong skills. We follow an Intensive Block Schedule where each student has up to four 85-minute classes each day. The schedule is demanding and truly requires a student to be in school every day, on time to each class, and to be current with assignments, projects, tests and quizzes. In addition, students will have opportunities to participate in Senior Practicum experiences, take courses on line, and pursue course work at local colleges. Students are expected to be responsi-ble and respectful to themselves and others. These expectations will be emphasized within the theme of the school year which is Perseverance and Compassion.

This handbook outlines what is expected of you. In addition, you are expected to attend school regularly, participate in class, pay attention, complete assignments in a timely manner and take advantage of all that is offered to you at Allentown High School including curricular and co-curricular programs. The administration, faculty and staff want the best for you and want you to succeed. Success, in great measure, will depend upon you. We will be here to answer any questions you may have or to assist you along your journey at Allentown High School. The friends and experiences you have at Allentown High School will provide an everlasting imprint upon your life. Work hard and enjoy the benefits of an Allentown experience.

Dr. Christopher J. Nagy
Principal

Constance DeNicola Embley
Vice Principal

Brian Myslinski
Vice Principal