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In addition to the affection I hold for the Class of 2012, I am inspired by the exceptional academic and artistic prowess exhibited by this talented cohort of artist-scholars. Nowhere can this be seen more clearly than in the quality of the post-secondary institutions our students are destined to attend. While there is no question that the exceptional qualities and achievements of the Class of 2012 are a tribute to the exceptional qualities and achievements of our students and their families, LACHSA should play an active role in promoting and amplifying the success of our students.
I remember all too well a USC associate dean remarking to me several years ago that the reputation of LACHSA students, was "excellent artistically, but academically ill prepared," adding he wished he could accept more LACHSA graduates, but the standards of USC were too high. There were few if any successful applicants to USC each year. This comment reflected a common sentiment; and although we certainly have more work to do, times have certainly changed.
My journey with the Class of 2012 highlights an intentional strengthening of our academic program to better promote the success of our amazing students. It has been a memorable four years!
In the Fall of 2008, LACHSA was at risk of losing its accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and College (WASC) after an unprecedented two deferrals to the required review process in preceding years, yet as our then-freshmen were preparing to mark the end of their first year in 2009, a six-year term of accreditation (the most allowable) was bestowed upon LACHSA after a year of institutional reflection and an on-the-ground WASC team visit.
The following year, the Class of 2012 returning as sophomores, were able to enjoy the option to study an additional world language, as Mandarin was added, and smaller class sizes in math as a fourth math teacher was added. Our Friday schedule was altered to provide a late start for students and dedicated time for weekly professional development for faculty. An academic dean, the first such position in LACHSA's history, was also added to support LACHSA's academic program.
After the loss of one of LACHSA's most memorable teachers, the 2010-11 school year began with a focus on technology. With a nod to strengthening the home-to-school connection, unprecedented investment in time and other resources was devoted to improving our technology infrastructure. While today's families enjoy unfettered online access to attendance, grades, and each teacher's gradebook and students consult LACHSA.net for homework, reference tools, and other resources, it is important to note that none of this previously existed. Our capacity for more effective communication has never been greater. It was during this year that we added a fourth-year option with earth science and a three-day orientation, our New Student Academy, was launched to ensure a strong start for our incoming students.
Our current school year saw the convergence of continued intensive professional development with faculty around curriculum and instruction, more intentional supports for our students to better manage their workload including calendar changes, and a more active and empowered role for our academic dean and assistant principal, Cara Livermore.
LACHSA's reputation as a leading arts institution is well established. Our arts programs are second-to-none in the nation and continue to receive a breathtaking multitude of honors and awards. It is my goal to aspire to this kind of achievement in our academic program. Future generations of graduates deserve this commitment.
I look forward to seeing you all at our upcoming graduation on Tuesday, June 5th at Walt Disney Concert Hall. We can all pay tribute to this amazing Class of 2012!
Tickets for Graduation 2012 are still available!
Sincerely,
George Simpson
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