Philosophy & Goals
O’Brien’s Six Point Blueprint for Success
To
build our foundation we rely on stakeholders that believe
in scholarship, teamwork, perseverance and enthusiasm - finding
pleasure in learning and instilling a zest for lifelong learning. When
students, staff, parents and the community
value these principles a positive school climate develops.
Learners receive instruction that
requires demonstration of understanding and application of basic
skills in reading, writing, arithmetic, mathematics, technology,
speaking and listening. Students must learn to think creatively,
make decisions, solve problems and understand how they learn. Personal
qualities such as self-esteem, self-management, consideration for
others, sociability and individual responsibility are valued and
encouraged.
1. High Expectations. Emmett
O’Brien Technical High School has defined
and observable high expectations for academic achievement and conduct. All
stakeholders create and reinforce a culture of achievement and
support through a range of formal and informal rewards and consequences
for academic performance and behavior.
2. Choice & Commitment.
Students, parents and the faculty and staff at Emmett O’Brien
Technical High School make a choice to be here. No one is assigned
or forced to attend the school. We make and uphold a commitment
to O’Brien and
to each other. Everyone will exercise the effort necessary
to achieve success.
3. Time. We understand that there are no
shortcuts to success. Every member of the school community is expected
to devote considerable time preparing in their respective technologies
and subject areas; working towards acquiring knowledge and strategic
skills, students are expected to participate in co-curricular experiences
that prepare them directly for work in their field of technical
study or for further education. The entire faculty is expected
to dedicate time to
life-long learning and share their experiences with peers.
4. Power to Lead. The school faculty is
comprised of organizational leaders who understand that there are
no great schools without great educators. The
school principal believes in distributive leadership and is a capable
leader.
Student leaders are mentored and are expected to mentor others.
O’Brien will challenge you, and you will share ideas with
student leaders from around the state and nation (Skills USA).
5. Focus on Results *. At O’Brien we focus determinedly
on results and publish assessment information in order to communicate
strong performance scores are hallmarks of skill and strength.
Student achievement on tests and other objective performance measures
including the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute
and the CAPT seek mastery of workplace skills. We examine
the demands of the workplace and post-secondary education. Learners
are expected to use strategies and skills to improve their performance
in order to meet those demands.
6. Respect.
Respectful behavior is a matter of common sense, doing what is
right and treating others as you expect to be treated. Mutual
respect is the cornerstone of each classroom.
Students will respect each tenet in order to be successful
and to reach their goals.
The intermediate goal is to help students carry this sense
of commitment and accomplishment through high school.
The long-term goal is to instill in our students the belief
that they are well prepared for immediate productive employment,
post-secondary education and a place within a competitive global
workforce.
* CTHSS Goals and Objectives affixed |
