Mission Statement

The educational programs of Watertown High School are based on the philosophy that the school's primary purpose is to provide the environment and the learning experiences that will assist all students in physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth. It is the school's responsibility to join with parents, students, and the community in determining appropriate goals to meet the needs of individual students, while helping to build the foundations for a productive and satisfying life in our democratic society.

Believing that well-educated citizens--responsible, independent, and aware of basic values in a free and democratic society--are essential, the school should dedicate itself to developing these citizens by motivating students to reach goals that enables personal fulfillment and worthwhile contributions to society. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the school to teach the basic concepts of the role of democracy in a world community and to impress upon every student the responsibilities and privileges of the individual in the global society.

Objectives

1. Students will understand the relationship between responsibilities and privileges by (a) being accountable for their academic performance, (b) having the opportunity to participate in club activities and sports programs, and (c) representing the school in community projects and services.
   
    
2. Students will be given aid in setting realistic goals and forming positive attitudes through classroom guidance, counseling, and the opportunity to take part in vocational and creative programs.
   
    
3. Students will be given instruction and practice in effective study skills, self-expression, logical thinking, and creative endeavors through academic programs and extracurricular activities.
   
    
4. Students will be furnished information and guidance for making vocational and higher educational choices through consultation with teachers and counselors, career study workshops, appropriate aptitude testing, and guest speakers where appropriate, as well as the opportunity to explore careers through clubs and organizations.
   
    
5. Students will learn that a sound mind, a healthy body, and a strong character are of value and can be developed by the individual through cooperation of the various departments and school-related organizations in reinforcing respect and responsibility for work in all curriculums.
   
    
6. Students will develop an understanding of the unique characteristics of various groups of people by studying ethnic and social groups. Students will be encouraged to see positive relationships among groups of diverse backgrounds through observations of the heritage of cultures in times past and present.
   
    
7. The professional staff will be continuously encouraged to participate in educational improvement by being involved in subject area professional associations, sharing ideas within departments, attending workshops and related programs, conducting educational research, and being open to innovative ideas and practices.
   
    
8. Teachers will create a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning by establishing and enforcing rules, encouraging student involvement and exchange, addressing the special needs of each student, and relating subject area material to students in a meaningful way.
   
    
9. Avenues of communication among students, parents, faculty, and the administration will be established and kept open through conferences, letters, telephone calls, and meetings whenever appropriate and/or needed.
   
    
10. Watertown High School will continue to be a vital part of the community by encouraging community visitation.