READING
         Course Evaluation
        Assignments
                Classwork
                Homework
          Vocabulary Links
          Author Links

FORMS
          Press Release

Grading Rubrics:

Fiction Bookmark Log grading rubric
Non Fiction Log grading rubric
Textbook Outline grading rubric

Syllabus

I have been a Salem High School teacher since 2001. However, as the mother of three Salem High graduates (1992, 1994, & 1999), my connection to Salem dates back to 1989, the year it opened. While my initial certification is in English, I have taught a variety of courses that were focused on helping students make better grades by working smarter instead of harder.  I am currently teaching one of the more unique high school programs offered by the Virginia Beach City Public School system:  Effective Reading Skills for High School Students.

Effective Reading Skills for High School Students has undergone some major changes this year as a result of Dr. Merrill’s strong commitment to providing K-12 reading support to all students whose course history (grades) and test history (SOL, SAT10, Holt Diagnostic Reading Assessment, etc.) indicate reading comprehension skills that are below current grade level. Starting this year, students placed in the high school reading program will be required to attend a 90 minutes reading class EVERY DAY instead of the previous every other A/B schedule. Students who complete the full year course will now earn two credits toward their diploma. Because of the rigorous records evaluation used to place these students into this program, students will be required to stay in the class for at least one entire semester. Student progress will be assessed every quarter to monitor their progress. Only those students who clearly demonstrate solid grade level reading skills may exit the program at the end of the semester; these students will receive one full elective credit toward their diploma for the semester.

MY WEBSITE: Please take the time to explore all of the features of this website. It was designed for parents and guardians who want to help their children improve their reading skills and do well in this course. There are many pages and links between pages. There is an entire section devoted to homework: descriptions, requirements, due dates, grading rubrics, etc. Other sections will link you to special websites for vocabulary development and to the home pages of some of my students’ favorite authors.