Today was a historic day for our FLRSD!
Massachusetts Secretary of Education, Stephen Zrike, visited ARHS. Sec. Zrike’s visit was part of a kick-off event to promote the
state’s new recommended graduation requirements. ARHS was selected for a visit because we have a number of the recommended standards already in place and we are working toward incorporating components of other recommendations.
In terms of meeting recommendations, 100% ARHS graduates accomplish current
MA Mass Core Graduation requirements and have done so since 2022. Another recommendation already in full swing at ARHS is assisting families with college financial planning and providing support for completing requisite applications. In fact, as recently as September 22nd, ARHS held a Financial Aid Seminar for grade 12 families and there is a Scholarship Information Session, scheduled for January 27th.
While at ARHS, Sec. Zrike recognized ARHS’s work toward the implementation of Innovation Career Pathways (ICP), as well as our emerging Laker Pathways. A Pathway is a career focused course of study that culminates with a community-partner supported internship. ARHS currently has two ICPs - Business and Health Career - and is developing school-based Laker Pathways in other areas such as education. Sec Zrike also recognized ARHS’s developing MyCAP - Career and College Planning lessons. Sec. Zrike met with students engaged in ICP and MyCAP, as well as with educators and administrators who have been developing this program of studies.
We are grateful to Sec. Zrike for visiting ARHS. We are embracing the recommended graduation requirements and seizing the opportunities they present to reimagine high school for our Lakers. Our continued commitment to MassCore, emerging use of MyCAP, and installation of Pathways reflect our dedication to making sure every graduate leaves with a well-defined post high school plan.
Recognition for our progress belongs to our educators, counselors, families, and community partners who help our students explore their interests and prepare for what comes next. We are appreciative of the grant funding we have received to support this programming and we welcome a follow-up visit from Secretary Zrike, as there will be more to celebrate as these opportunities evolve and expand.
Sec. Zrike’s visit was a nod to everyone in FLRSD. His visit highlights our students, educators, and supportive community members across FLRSD whose work culminates in the successful graduation of our Lakers.
Have a wonderful weekend.
In Partnership with Teri Fleming, John Higgins, and Kelly Steele,
B. Starkie, Ed.D.
Superintendent
