“Talk
Back” is an opportunity for students to speak directly
with administration about issues pertaining to the climate
of Eli Whitney and make suggestions to improve the school. Dr.
Moran, Assistant Principal, began the process with the class
of 2008. "Talk Back" is based on the principles of the “Skip
Meetings” held by managers in industry (managers meet
with the subordinates of their subordinates to get the pulse
of the organization). During the first "talkback" sessions several members of the class of
2008 were invited to a series of lunches with Dr. Moran and
responded to questions that she posed to them.
Dr. Moran is continuing the process with the class of 2011. The
first “Talk
Back” session of the 2008-2009 school year took place on November 12. There
was plenty of lively discussion and everyone enjoyed pizza. Students
indicated that they came to Eli and stay at Eli because they
cannot get the high quality trade education in a regular high
school. They enjoy the regular transition between academics
and trades and feel that they learn more here because they
can apply information directly in shop. They voiced a
desire to start a Debate Team. Based on the animated
discourse in the meeting, a Debate Team may be highly successful! The
next “Talk Back” session will be held in December.
