Welcome to Cowboy country!   I am thrilled to welcome you back to the 2007 – 2008 school year.  As we prepare for the first day of school, we are excited about the educational opportunities we offer at Chaparral High School.  Our “8AB” block schedule provides students the opportunity to take eight classes each semester.  Students attend four of the eight classes each day, on an alternating basis.  Additionally, Chaparral will open its doors in August as a school recommitted to providing each student with a challenging, motivating, and personalized curriculum.    We have reorganized ourselves into four Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) to effectively engage students with the new “Three R’s of Education”: Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships.  All incoming ninth grade students have been assigned to a house within the new Ninth Grade Academy.  To benefit our students in grades 10-12 the faculty will create an interdisciplinary curriculum based on themes and student interests, such as Arts & Media, Business & Technologies, and International Leadership.  These last three SLC’s will recruit students throughout the year.  As a member of an SLC, you will have the opportunity to get to know your administrator, counselors, and teachers in a more meaningful and lasting manner.    While our block schedule and SLC’s creates new opportunities for students, you must accept responsibility for your role in the educational process.  It is vital that you attend school daily.  Our excellent faculty will be teaching bell-to-bell during each block class period, so it is imperative that you come to class on time and prepared to learn.   At Chaparral, we believe in the entire “high school” experience.  To get the most out of your Chaparral career, we encourage you to participate in athletics and join one of our numerous student clubs and organizations.    Finally, I would like to invite all parents and families to become our partners in our quest to ensure that each student receives the rigorous curriculum and necessary support to be successful in an increasingly global society.  In an effort to facilitate open communication within the Chaparral community, I host monthly Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meetings.  Please look for these dates and times in upcoming bulletins and newsletters.   Be Proud To Be A Cowboy!   Kevin McPartlin Principal