MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

As the new Principal of North 13^th Street Vocational Technical School, I am extremely excited about working with an exceptional staff and student body.  Our goal for the 2008-2009 school year is to rebrand ourselves as not just a good school, but as a great school!

In keeping with the mission of the school, staff members at North 13^th Street Vocational Technical School serve as role models, encouraging and assisting all students to reach their potential as learners. Students have access to a number of support services such as Supplemental Educational Services (SES) which offers before and after school tutoring, and the TNT program which offers counseling and support services to students who are dealing with social, emotional, and other types of issues.  Additionally, students at North 13^th Street Vocational Technical School are highly encouraged to participate in extracurricular sports and academic activities where they have other means by which to excel.

Through our commitment to serve as lifelong learners who respect diversity and are actively involved in the life of the school, the staff at North 13^th Street Vocational Technical School will work collaboratively to become a professional learning community (PLC). As a PLC we will plan and share instructional techniques and activities that will sustain our professional growth and equip us with the most effective strategies for improving student achievement and ensuring a safe and orderly school environment.

With the support and assistance of parents, businesses, and community organizations our students not only have the opportunity to excel at school, but are also afforded the opportunity to excel in the workforce and in higher learning institutes. This year, North 13^th Street Vocational Technical School students will participate in a number of certificated vocational and technical career programs including: Accounting, Business Technology, Computer Repair, Cosmetology and Nail Technology, Culinary Arts, Engineering and Architectural Drafting, Law & Public Safety, Web Design, and Networking. Ninth graders will sample these courses through a number of exploratory classes and will decide by the end of the school year which career path they will follow over the next three years.

In our journey toward greatness, I would like to wish the staff and students of North 13 Street Vocational Technical School continued success during this school year and encourage all to work toward your greatest potential. Parents, please recognize that my door is always open to you. In addition, we are aware that a child's first teachers are their parents. I strongly encourage you all to play an active role in your child's education at North 13th Street by attending our many events and becoming involved in our Parent-Teacher Student Association. Please stay in touch by continually checking our school announcements. Thank you in advance for your support and assistance in making this a great school year!