The BUZZ October Edition
Pemberton Township High School Newsletter
Principal's Message
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are off to a great start here at Pemberton Township High School. It doesn’t seem that long ago that we were welcoming back students to the building and now we are near the midway part of the first marking period. I am impressed with our students and their desire to achieve academically and in all activities. Students and teachers need to put in the commitment to education in order for us all to achieve at a high level. We appreciate the support that we receive from families to make our work with students productive.
It takes teamwork to make education a success and the support that we receive from our parents, students, teachers, and community is essential if the process is to work well. We urge all parents to stay active and involved with the education of their child. Ask questions of your child when something appears to be wrong or out of character. Consult with teachers, counselors, and administration if there are issues that may be difficult to solve on your own. We are here to support your efforts with your children.
Back To School Night was well attended this year with the earlier event. We really appreciate the parents that attended the evening. We want to be the best partners possible in educating your child. We remind all parents to take an active role in making communication with teachers regarding your student’s progress in school. The educational process cannot be a success unless we have the teamwork of students-teachers-parents.
If you feel that more time is needed to discuss matters relating to your student, please make arrangements with the teacher to meet during the school day or at another arranged time. We also encourage parents to actively follow your student’s progress on Genesis and also to be a frequent visitor on the PTHS website and like us on Facebook.
Eder Joseph, Principal
PSAT Administration Wednesday October 10
On Wednesday, October 10, our school will administer the PSAT/NMS to all 10th-grade,11th-grade and select 12th-grade students. The PSAT measures the skills and knowledge students have developed in reading, writing and language, and math. It measures reasoning and critical thinking skills, which will be important through high school, college, and beyond. Taking the PSAT is great practice for taking the SAT. The PSAT will also qualify as an assessment for NJ graduation requirements.
As a JUNIOR, taking the PSAT/NMSQT can enter students into the National Merit Scholarship Program, with a qualifying score. If students qualify for participation in the National Merit Scholarship Program, it can open up opportunities for college scholarships and other programs that may help them prepare for college.
We encourage students to take advantage of the many benefits the PSAT/NMSQT offers:
* Get connected to colleges and universities across the country - and to scholarship organizations - by opting into "Student Search Service" on the test.
* Get ready for the SAT. Taking the PSAT/NMSQT is great practice for the SAT and helps sharpen your skills for college. After you get your scores you can link them to Khan Academy to keep practicing where you need it most.
* Get matched with AP courses that make the most of your strengths. AP can give you an edge in the admission process, and the opportunity to earn college credit.
Feel free to ask your counselor for more information about the PSAT/NMSQT, and visit psat.org.
Delayed Opening October 10 PSAT Day
ex. Students normal pick up time 6:30 a.m.
October 10 delayed opening pick up time 9:30 a.m.
Students who are dropped off to school or student drivers should arrive at school no later than 10:30 a.m. Students who are not testing and arrive at school prior to the 10:30-time frame will be supervised in the building.
PTHS Friday Show
College Planning and Financial Aid Night
Attendance Matters
Daily attendance is an important factor for your child’s success in school. When students are not in school, they are not receiving high-quality instruction to help them succeed in class. A child is considered chronically absent if they miss 10 percent of the school year which equates to 18 days of school including unexcused and excused absences.
We realize some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances. However, when students miss too much school (regardless of the reason), it can cause them to fall behind academically.
4 Tips for improving School Attendance
1. Remember that good attendance benefits your child's education. Students who miss a day of school not only miss instruction, but they must make up work and catch up with the new material at the same time.
2. The bus is a consistent way to ensure your child arrives at school in a timely manner. Students are expected to be at the bus stop 5-10 minutes before "pick-up" time.
3. Try to schedule doctor and dentist appointments in the beginning or end of the day so that your child will only miss part of the day. When possible, try to schedule these on days when school is closed.
4. Remember that there are 180 school days of the 365 total days in the year. Families are encouraged to take vacations during summer vacations or during other extended school breaks.
INTEGRITY
During the first month of school, we have focused on discussing one of our core principles titled INTEGRITY.
At PTHS we define INTEGRITY as being strong enough to do what you know is right. INTEGRITY is also knowing the difference between right and wrong and choosing to do the right thing, even when it is difficult. We have focused on encouraging our students to make the right CHOICES, and making the decision to correct poor CHOICES to become better students.
September Students of the Month
Athletic Spotlight
Character Education Kickoff Celebration
AP Kickoff Celebration
Genesis Parent and Student Portal
The Genesis Parent Portal and Genesis Student Portal is currently open. The Genesis Parent Portal provides up to date information pertaining to student grades, attendance, and discipline information. Please reach out to the school if you can not access your Genesis Parent Portal.
All high school students have access to the Student Genesis Portal. Students can monitor their attendance, grades, discipline records, and missing work. Students can access this account by using the information below.
Student Username: Student ID#@pemb.org
Password: 8 digit birthdate (2 digit month, 2 digit day, 4 digit year)
College Accelerated Program (CAP Courses)
College Accelerated Program allows PTHS students who take designated high school courses to obtain credit for high school and college credits at the same time! The courses are taken at PTHS and taught by PTHS staff members. Students must earn a minimum of a “C” average in the course to receive college credit. Typically, a 3 credit course at the college costs over $400.00, however, PTHS CAP students will be given a reduced rate of $150.00 per three or four credit course.
By partnering with Rowan College at Burlington County, we are able to give our students a “jump start” on their college careers. Students will receive a Rowan College at Burlington County transcript, and courses are transferable to many four year institutions. Please contact your counselor for more information.
Dates to Remember
October 6: SAT's @ PTHS
October 10: PSAT's 10th and 11th Grade
October 18: Homecoming Dance 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
October 20: Homecoming Game @ 12:00 p.m.
October 22: Financial Aid Night @ 5:00 p.m.
October 26: College Fair @ PTHS