Date: Fri 19-Dec-1997

Publication: Bee

Author: MICHEL

Quick Words:

schools-high-Manfredonia

Full Text:

Newtown High School Nominated for Blue Ribbon

BY MICHELE HOGAN

The state of Connecticut recently nominated Newtown High School as one of six

secondary schools statewide to be considered for national recognition with the

Blue Ribbon Schools Secondary Program.

The application process was open to all middle schools and high schools in the

country and started last May.

The United States Department of Education asked teachers and administrators to

be reflective of their work (just as teachers are now asking their students to

be reflective of theirs) by responding to 40 pages of essay questions.

Questions ranged from curriculum standards to the more thought-provoking

issues of encouraging leadership, vitality, active teaching and learning,

community involvement, and providing student support.

Mr Manfredonia said that school evaluation is an on-going process. It doesn't

end with the application.

He said, "We are far from perfect, but we'll think, we'll ponder."

The United States Department of Education in Washington has received

nominations from across the country and will, with the aid of nationally

recognized experts on education, select the best schools for onsite visits in

February of 1998.

William Farr, associate education consultant with the state Department of

Education, wrote that he is "hopeful that Newtown High will be chosen for a

site visit."

The purpose of the Blue Ribbon program, wrote the state's Commissioner of

Education Theodore Sergi, is "to select exemplary schools to serve as

nationwide models."

Already, other Connecticut schools are turning to Newtown High School for

advice and suggestions. Since the news became public, Mr Manfredonia has

received calls from four high school administrators from across the state.

Mr Manfredonia said, "We are not a business. We are here for the kids, and if

we find something that works, I am happy to share it."