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POLAHS Difference |
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Small School, Big Opportunities Studies have repeatedly shown that students do best in a small school setting. POLAHS is a small school with approximately 950 students. Our size allows us to provide a very personal approach to education. No student will "float" the halls unknown or unrecognized. Our size also enables the introduction of innovative services and programs that would be impossible in a larger environment. At POLAHS, our class sizes are limited to 25 students or less. This allows teachers to recognize the individuality of each student. Personalized attention gives students the means to achieve maximum success.
Technology as a Classroom Supplement Our computer lab and technology center hosts over 30 computers. Students learn graphic design, computer science and 3D animation. Each classroom is equipped with a minimum of six computers. Our teachers have access to the technology needed to supplement their lessons. They utilize classroom computers, iPads, ceiling-mounted LCD projectors, 'MOBI' real-time assessment hardware and software, and more to promote hands-on, interactive learning. Parents as Partners in Education
POLAHS places the utmost priority on family partnerships. We believe in this relationship to such an extent that we require parents and guardians to enter into a "contract" with the school at the time of student enrollment. This contract defines the kind of support, participation, and communication that we expect from families. One of these communication methods is an automated system called Aeries. Utilizing this tool, parents can instantly check on attendance, grades, homework, and much more from any computer. Well-Rounded Curriculum, Educating the Whole Student A well-rounded education is more than books and tests. That is why POLAHS students participate in a number of internships throughout the community. POLAHS also has a deep commitment to culture and the arts, rooted in our waterfront community's rich history. We believe a well-rounded education introduces all students to a variety of artistic mediums, performance art, and diverse cultural expressions. Students enrolled in our classes display work at local art galleries and curate their own exhibits at events and openings throughout the year. We participate in a matching grant program from the California Arts Council that allows professional painters, sculptors, and photographers from San Pedro's Angels Gate Cultural Center to teach weekly lessons in our classes. We expanded our art department in 2009 and built a specialized drama classroom where students experience theatre through class productions and professional shows.
WASC Accredited
POLAHS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). One purpose of school accreditation is to ensure colleges and universities that graduating high school students have mastered a particular body of knowledge upon entering their institution. As our seniors apply for college, the integrity of their student transcripts is validated by WASC. CA Distinguished SchoolPOLAHS was one of 27 middle and high schools in Los Angeles County invited to apply for the 2011 California Distinguished School Award, and was one of 6 award recipients. The Distinguished School Award highlights institutions that exemplify a clear narrowing of the achievement gap between the highest and lowest performing subgroups. Schools must also show a significant increase in their annual standardized testing scores.
Graduation and College Enrollment
Our first three graduating classes exemplify our program's success with nearly 100% graduation rates and 98% college/university acceptance. POLAHS is dedicated to ensuring that students succeed beyond their time with us. Over 40% of POLAHS' college-bound graduates have received scholarships raised by the school, ranging from $500 to $10,000. Each year, POLAHS has awarded over $50,000. These scholarships are based on academic merit and/or financial need, and are in addition to any scholarships, grants, or financial aid students receive outside of POLAHS. |
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