August 20, 2004

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Classifieds

Publication Date: Friday, August 20, 2004

Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District

By David Herbert

Students will return to a number of changes, including refurbished athletic fields and minor improvements to school facilities.

But, none will be more drastic than the implementation of the district-wide dress code. According to Mountain View High School Principal Pat Hyland, the dress code became necessary "because of the increased size of the student population and the fact that some of the current fashion has been distracting."

Among the changes, low-cut shirts must not dip below armpit level, skirts must reach the middle of the thigh, shoes are mandatory and apparel featuring inappropriate or gang-related words or images are prohibited.

Enrollment: 1,756

Construction. Improvements to the multi-use athletic fields that began during the summer will wrap up in November. Additionally, the music building was renovated over the summer, receiving new carpeting and a paint job.

New-student programs. "MV Ambassadors," a corps of older students will be trained to welcome incoming freshmen and help them make the transition to high school life. Potential ambassadors must be nominated by faculty members and then attend a training program during the summer.

The school is also increasing its offerings for at-risk ninth and tenth graders in a new two-period class called "The Bridge Program." Underclass students who have poor grades or attendance will meet with counselors to improve study skills and time management to help get them back on track.

New staff. Mountain View welcomes 15 new staff members this year.

Events. Pack a comb on Sept. 1 and 2 when the school will take student pictures. Back to School night will be Sept. 14 at 6 p.m., and the first parent-teacher conferences will be on Sept. 15.

Enrollment: 1,621

Construction: The school is getting bids from contractors for a set of new tennis courts.

Continuing successful programs. The Opportunity Program that began last year to help students who are behind on their graduation requirements catch up will continue this year. And the core ninth-grade program, which both prepares students for the academic rigors of high school and makes sure freshmen feel welcome, is better than ever, according to Satterwhite.

New staff. Former Assistant Principal Wynne Satterwhite replaces George Perez as principal, and Kathleen Meagher takes on the role of assistant principal. Nine new teachers have also been hired, and three student-teachers will also be on the staff.

Events. Freshman Orientation and New Parent Orientation, a program that shows parents what high school life will be like for their children, will take place on Aug. 23. The event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Back to School night is on Sept. 9 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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