Acceleration East High School
Community Brief
Monday, October 12, 2020
   
I have to do a better job of leading our school. That's not me fishing for compliments. That's me not settling for good enough. The pandemic has affected us in many negative ways. But it has forced us to be resilient, stretch our creativity, and constantly problem solve.

I hit my low point a couple of weeks ago when I realized that I have not seen about 100 of our students since last March. Mainly, because I felt responsible. That, no matter how hard we tried, I couldn't save the kids from quarantine at home.

Those that know me know that I view the students as if they were my own. It makes me proud, excited, agitated and disappointed, but I still love them no matter what.

My low point meant that I had no where to go but up. Maybe the end of the quarter also means that we still have students struggling to find meaning in their work; meaning in their school, and, thereby, their motivation. And they, too, need to be reminded there is no where to go but up.

I have simple answer for any students struggling right now. . . Pick up the phone and call me. 407 992 0917 x 632 2222. I'll be there to listen to your angst and anxiety, your frustrations and your concerns. Because, guess what? I can empathize with you. I've been there.

And hey, if something good happens, call me, too! I'd love to hear good news and celebrate! We could all use a little celebration right now, couldn't we? 
 
Doug Loftus

Pictured at the very top and just below: Mathematics with Mr. Demarco. This past Friday students were studying polynomial equations of degree 2.

Referred to as "blended learning," Mr. Demarco (at desk) is able to work online and with his in class students simultaneously.
Classroom Feature
Digital Information Technology with Ms. Marshall


Pictured this past Friday afternoon, just before the 1st quarter of 2020-2021 came to a close, Ms. Marshall was checking in with her LaunchEd students while other students worked in class on their assignment.
No Early Dismissal Wednesday, October 14, 2020
In order for all students participating in SAT School Day (October 14, 2020) to complete their tests without concern for running out of time, all OCPS students will be scheduled for a full school day instead of the normal early dismissal, Wednesday, October 14, 2020.  

The other two 2020-21 school year exam dates that require a full Wednesday student days are March 3, 2021, and April 7, 2021.

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Special Events



This Week's Motivational Moment!
SUCCESS COMES ONE DAY AT A TIME
We have just finished the first nine-week quarter of the 2020-2021 school year; a year that has opened like none before it. The coronavirus (COVID-19) situation has created new challenges for our school system, our families, the business community, and our students. However, it is precisely when facing adverse situations that many, like our Acceleration East students and staff, rediscover the best in themselves: friendships, ethics, the capability to create new strategies based upon talent and experience, and how to employ new resources like OCPS' LaunchEd technology in order to still acquire a quality education.

The campus is pretty quiet today and hopefully all of our Phoenixes are enjoying their Monday off. Sometime today I ask that all students will take a moment of quiet and decisiveness to consider the upcoming second quarter. It is time reflect on personal goals keeping in mind that success for the entire 2020-2021 school year really comes one day at a time.

AEHS has a winning group of teachers like Ms. Marshall above. They all drew down on their training and experience this 1st quarter to deliver learning to their students whether they be at home or in the classroom. Either way, their students are #1 for them and we are very proud of our educators.

When the second quarter opens on Tuesday morning, we hope that all students will be energized, optimistic, and ready for the new educational challenges these next nine weeks will bring. Should any student have worries or uncertainties about any class, reach out now to your teachers or call me as I mentioned above in the opening. With determination and a little extra help, you can do it.  And remember Phoenixes, the secret of success is found in your daily routines.

Congratulations to all of our students, teachers, and staff for completing quarter 1. And thank you to all of our parents for their ongoing patience. Our parents should feel real pride today in knowing that they have worked very hard to overcome the obstacles brought forth by COVID-19 in support of their children's education.

Let's make this a terrific second quarter; one day at a time!

Florida flag
Mr. Doug Loftus, Principal
Acceleration East High School
Monday, October 12, 2020
 
 
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