Education system out of touch

[beachmouse]

Sounds more like overstated rumor than anything else. Both schools have their strengths and weaknesses. Niceville has a lot of good programs, but it's got about 2200 students and it's easy to get lost in the crowd there. (Also really really hard to make some of the sports teams there unless you've played travel team since you were ten) Different student populations as well- the SoWal kids tend to be long-times once the settle into the area. Niceville's got a fair number of military brats who come and go, as well as kids of civilian Defense Department researchers (ie. the rocket scientist crowds)

SoWal High has improved a lot in the last couple of years. If you're moving to the Destin area, I'd visit Ft. Walton Beach High, Niceville High, OWC Collegiate High, and South Walton High and see what the best fit's going to be for your child.

 

[bsmichie]

My name is Scott Michie and I am the vice principal at South Walton High School. I heard through the grapevine that some parents had some questions about scheduling at SWHS for the 08-09 school year.

Parents should have received information about our registration appointments that were scheduled during the week of April 21. If you missed these appointments, I will be happy to speak with you by phone (622-5020 ext 119) or feel free to come by and let's review what's available for your student for the 2008-2009 school.

Mr. Ewing, our principal, and I are always available for your questions and concerns.

Remember, we are better working together...

 

[Jdarg]

Mr. Michie!!

I think it is great that you are here!

 

[ShallowsNole]

Mr. Michie!!

I think it is great that you are here!

Ditto!

 

[ShallowsNole]

And about the rumored waivers...

It is my understanding that there are currently a number of students who live in Okaloosa County and should be attending Fort Walton Beach High School that have waivers to come to SWHS instead. As to who they are and how many there are, I do not know. That could possibly be a rumor as well. However, there is a drive in the city of Destin to establish a high school in Destin, and bringing those students back to Okaloosa County - albeit to Niceville and not FWBHS - might be the first step in that process.

I only know one student who has tranferred permanently to Niceville, and he is an exceptional athlete. His parents felt Niceville was a better fit in planning for a future as a student-athlete. We miss him greatly.

 

[Miss Critter]

Sorry, I did not mean to "stir the pot" with my post. Only trying to get answers from people that I figured would have the most accurate information. We leased a home in sowal this weekend and my son will attend SWHS in the fall. BTW, I am one of those moms who does attend meetings, and chaperones field trips, and meets teachers, and volunteers for committees, etc. I agree that those who do not participate in their kids' education have no right to complain. And I will take you up on your invitation, Mr. Michie, and thank you for your post. It's refreshing to see someone from admin take an active role in providing information for parents.