From the Desk of Mr. Jeff Kuhns

As happens from time to time I waited too long to get a haircut. It was too late to make an appointment with my normal shop so I was on the look for someplace that I could get in to urgently. My daughter mentioned a new place in Newport, so I looked them up on the web. Once on the website I discovered that a West Perry student was one of the barbers there. The student was listed as an Apprentice Barber. I pondered this. Do you really want to get your haircut by an 18-year-old who is learning the craft? In the end I surmised that I wasn’t that handsome to start with and that even the worst haircut would grow back. It was also an opportunity to put my money where my mouth was. Besides, I got an amazing haircut and will return. Maybe next time I’ll get the shave too! (Hmmm…an 18-year-old with a straight razor at my neck.)

I tell that story because this is one of my passions. It is also why I say I put my money where my mouth is. One of my primary goals is to make sure that every student who walks out of our doors is prepared to take the next step. Is that step college? Is that step the military? Is that step the workforce? All those options need to be available for our students.

I believe that our interactions with students and the experiences that we provide must be so powerful that there is no better option. Let me say that again, powerful experiences and interactions are what we must provide if West Perry is to be the best option for students.

In that vein, we have hired a K-12 Career Coordinator. Her responsibility is to assure that students begin thinking about careers as early as kindergarten and that they are given the opportunity to explore different careers throughout their school careers. In a short time these types of opportunities have exploded under her guidance.

To go along with this initiative, a reduction in graduation credits required for graduation has been instituted. The purpose of this reduction has not been to make it easier for students to graduate. It also hasn’t been done to eliminate teaching staff. Its purpose is to give students increased opportunities. There is a myriad of opportunities for college level courses, internships, and apprenticeships. These opportunities can be stifled by requiring credits beyond what is necessary.

The intention is to transform the learning focus to one of career development and readiness.

1. The current system often emphasizes subjects that may not directly align with a student’s career interests or future job prospects. Reducing the number of required credits allows students to focus on core academic skills like math, literacy, and critical thinking, while using the additional time to pursue career-specific training. This streamlines their education and makes learning more relevant to their goals.

2. Many high-demand jobs do not necessarily require a four-year degree but rather specialized training, certifications, or an associate degree. By cutting down on unnecessary credit requirements, students can invest time in gaining industry-recognized credentials, participating in internships, or learning technical skills that align with the evolving job market. This not only prepares students better for the real world but also addresses skill gaps in industries facing workforce shortages.

3. Students become disengaged with school because they are required to take courses that they find irrelevant to their personal or career goals. Reducing credit requirements allows for a more personalized education, with students choosing courses and programs aligned with their interests. When students see a direct link between their education and future careers, they are more likely to remain engaged, motivated, and successful.

4. Not all students are on the traditional four-year college bound track, and the current credit-heavy system often forces all students into the same mold. Reducing credits could allow students who are interested in technical or career education to begin this training earlier, while still allowing college-bound students the flexibility to take advanced courses if they choose. This model recognizes the diversity of student goals and offers a more flexible approach to education.

Our intention is to reduce the number of credits required for high school graduation in order to transform and enhance the educational experience. By enabling students to focus on practical skills, vocational training, and real-world experiences, we hope that every Mustang graduate is prepared to strive in their chosen path .I think that's the least that we can do.