Harold Cohen, Chairman
David F. Lehto, Vice-Chairman
Peter H. Collins
John Gillis
Daniel J. Harrington
Edwin S. Little
Francis W. O’Brien

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Michael E. McFarland, Superintendent-Director
Suzanne M. Green, Principal
Richard D.Fitzpatrick, Business Manager
Jane M.Wiggin, Director of Student Services
Tammy T.Quinn, Academic Curriculum Coordinator
James Hathaway, Vocational Curriculum Coordinator
Joseph J.Huff, Dean of Students
Kevin J.Bell, Director of Community and Cooperative Education

The Norfolk County Agricultural High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap in its education activities or employment practices as required by Title IX of the 1972 Federal Education Amendments, by Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and by Chapter 622 of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

NEW ENGLANDASSOCIATION
OF SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
ACCREDITED MEMBER

INTRODUCTION

The Program of Studies describes the current course offerings, promotion and graduation requirements, and other information pertaining to the educational program at the Norfolk County Agricultural High School (NCAHS). Students and parents/guardians are urged to become thoroughly familiar with the information contained in this booklet. They should refer to the Program of Studies annually as they make decisions about programs and courses in preparation for transitioning to college or a career.

The educational program at NCAHS is structured to prepare every NCAHS student for attainment of a high school diploma, post-secondary education and future employment, preferably in an occupation related to agriculture. As state requirements for graduation and college entrance change, NCAHS will adjust the Program of Studies to meet these standards. NCAHS guarantees that students, as well as parents/guardians, will be informed and advised regarding educational changes that directly affect future aspirations.

NCAHS’s counselors and teachers encourage students to consider programs of study, courses, extracurricular activities and occupational opportunities on the basis of individual interests, abilities and skills. Limited-English-Proficient students are provided with the opportunity to receive guidance and counseling in a language they understand. Students in pursuit of educational and occupational opportunities that are non-traditional for their gender are supported and encouraged by the staff and faculty.

Preparation for career success is an essential component of the education offered at NCAHS. In addition to the new standards being applied to core academic course work and the core vocational work, NCAHS remains committed to the importance of work-experience and career-preparatory programs. NCAHS intends to support and expand educational opportunities that provide students work experience where they are allowed to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in their classrooms and labs.

NCAHS. PHILOSOPHY

The Norfolk County Agricultural High School believes agriculture and agribusiness are essential to regional, national, and global economies. We recognize that agricultural and environmental technologies are vital to global survival. Therefore, it is our mission to offer progressive agricultural education, a challenging academic curriculum, and work experiences that prepare our students for continued learning. We are committed to providing a quality educational environment that recognizes diversity in student backgrounds, individual learning styles, and varying abilities. It is the responsibility of the school community to provide a positive learning environment fostered through mutual respect and dignity.

NCAHS Goals

1. Develop student understanding and appreciation for agriculture, natural resources, and the environment. Involve students in environmental issues at the campus and community levels and create an awareness of career opportunities in agriculture and related fields.

2. Provide guidance to all students concerning their academic and agricultural advancement as well as services to address social and personal needs. Such services will recognize the individual needs of all students.

3. Recognize students’ achievements in all areas, thereby developing self-respect and pride by encouraging higher levels of performance.

4. Provide diverse clubs and activities designed to positively influence the students’ physical, social, and emotional well being.

5. Provide a positive, safe and orderly environment that promotes active learning and the development of strong communication skills.

6. Provide positive and challenging work-based learning experiences through strengthened relationships with business partners and community employers.

7. Integrate academic and vocational curricula to maximize learning by fostering collaboration and communication among and between departments.

8. Develop and maintain funding sources, both public and private, to provide the necessary resources used in educating students.

9. Encourage the Alumni Association to collect data from graduates regarding their personal and professional successes.

10. Ensure the school philosophy is represented in all communications to prospective and current students and their parents as well as the community at large. School Council should develop a process to review the school philosophy and goals annually.

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