Welcome to Tri-County Jr./Sr. High School
Welcome Back!
It has been so uplifting to see our students’ entire faces as they enter the building at the start of the day. All of their smiles and positive energy is something that has been refreshing to be around. I am not sure what “normal” really is supposed to be anymore, but I feel that things are getting closer in many ways to the pre-pandemic days. This has been a time that we will never forget and will be talking about for years to come. My thoughts continue to go out to those most affected by the last eighteen months. I am hoping that we can all look to better days ahead and return to educating students in the way we are accustomed to.
This summer, I really enjoyed watching and reading about our students being involved in activities that were altered or taken from them in 2020. Some of the activities included the county fairs, in-person FFA state convention, marching band activities and the return of a regular summer schedule for our student-athletes. I am confident from the number of students involved that a greater appreciation for non-classroom activities has taken place with both students and the community. I look forward to seeing everyone at events this fall with no restrictions.
As I reflect back, I remember writing my first letter at the beginning of last year and discussing the changes that were going to be made to help student learning. Terms like social distancing, proper mask usage and hand washing were all things that we focused on with students on the first day last August. Currently, I am hoping our students can go back to having normal procedures in place for the new school year. One of the changes to our schedule will include the return of Purple Days. Before last year, Purple Days fell each Wednesday and allowed students to go to each of their eight classes for a shorter time than our regular blocks. This year, our Purple Days will be on Mondays, which allows our students to see each of their teachers to prepare for the rest of the week. Teachers may use this shortened block to assess student learning on materials covered from the previous week. Another significant reason for returning Purple Days into the schedule will allow for Red Days to fall every Tuesday and Thursday, while Blue Days will be every Wednesday and Friday. I think this change will help many of our students get back into a regular routine each week. If you get a chance, talk to your student about the changes and how it will impact their learning.
Our entire staff is looking forward to an exciting year for our students. Please don’t hesitate to contact one of our counselors or myself if you have any questions in regards to your students’ schedule or graduation requirements. The lines of communication between our staff and parents must be kept open in order to meet the needs of all our students. Thanks for all that you do in promoting education at Tri-County. I look forward to seeing/meeting each of you this fall at one of the many activities at the school. Continue to stay safe and focus on the positives!
Yours in education,
J.R. Haskins
