Academic Preparation

Academic Programs

English
Mathematics
Science
History
Electives

Smith Vocational offers students a complete academic program leading to a traditional high school diploma. The core curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, Technology Engineering, Health and Physical Education.

Classroom study is supplemented with library research. Students use the Smith Vocational library to work on individual reports and research for academic and shop classes. The library is a large facility with an extensive collection of reading materials including fiction, non-fiction, and trade journals for each of the vocational programs. The library also has computers to aid students in on-line research and writing projects.

Integration of technology in course work is encouraged. To that end, there is a computer-writing laboratory available to all students. In addition, there is a computer laboratory with access to the Internet. Expanding that Internet access throughout the school is a goal that is in the process of being completed.


"I like being in shop one week and academic classes the other week.
It really helps me apply what I've learned."

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English

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
English English Applied Communication Applied communication
Developmental English Developmental English Creative Writing Creative Writing
    Media Media
    College Prep College Prep
    Developmental English Developmental English

Grade 9 English
Grade 9 English will begin with an orientation unit that will introduce the student handbook, shop safety, and issues in the workplace. Writing will focus on writing skills, including essays, journal writing and creative writing. Literature will include using critical reading and appreciating literature. Skills learned will include listening, writing, speaking, presenting, and interpreting.

Grade 10 English
Students will be expected to produce longer pieces of writing including analytical essays, trade related, business, technical, and creative writing. Reading assignments will include trade-related materials, fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Skills learned will include listening, writing, speaking, presenting, and interpreting. MCAS preparation is incorporated into the curriculum.

Grade 11 Applied Communications
This course will help the student develop and practice communication skills that will be used on the job. The reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking activities that are done in this class will be job-related. The units that are studied may vary from "Starting a New Job" to "Planning for the Future". The course will be especially helpful to students who are planning to be on Co-op, are already on Co-op, or have part-time jobs.

Grade 11 Creative Writing
This class will cover eleventh grade texts and skills while incorporating aspects of creative writing used in short stories, plays, poetry, and the personal essay. Extensive emphasis will be placed on the use of words, imagination, creativity, and vocabulary.

Writing assignments will include the production of a portfolio including poems, short stories, personal essays, and a complete short play. Oral presentations will be assigned as well.

Grade 11 Media
This class will cover eleventh grade texts and skills while incorporating aspects of media, including print and electronic journalism. Students will be expected to contribute to the yearbook and school newspaper.

Writing assignments will include news writing and reporting, research papers, and creative writing. Debates and oral presentations will be assigned as well.

Reading assignments will include local newspapers and national news and trade magazines, fiction, poetry, and drama.

Grade 11 College Prep
This is a course designed to meet the needs of students who are considering higher education. Students will be expected to read extensively outside of class. Class time will be devoted to discussions, writing, and projects. Periodic papers, including a research paper, will be a requirement. Portfolios will be used in this course, and these portfolios may eventually be used to exempt students from remedial writing requirements at two-and-four year colleges. SAT verbal preparation will also be covered.

Grade 12 Applied Communications
This course will help the student develop and practice communication skills that will be used on the job. The reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking activities that are done in this class will be job-related. The units that are studied may vary from "Starting a New Job" to "Planning for the Future". The course will be especially helpful to students who are planning to be on Co-op, are already on Co-op, or have part-time jobs.

Grade 12 Creative Writing
This class will cover twelfth grade texts and skills while incorporating aspects of creative writing used in short stories, plays, poetry, and the personal essay. Extensive emphasis will be placed on the use of words, imagination, creativity, and vocabulary.

Writing assignments will include the production of a portfolio including poems, short stories, personal essays. Oral presentations will be assigned as well.

Reading assignments will include local newspapers, fiction, poetry, and drama.

Grade 12 Media
This class will cover twelfth grade texts and skills while incorporating aspects of media, including print and electronic journalism. Students will be expected to contribute to the senior video and school newspaper.

Writing assignments will include news writing and reporting, and creative writing. Debates and oral presentations will be assigned as well.

Reading assignments will include local newspapers and national news and trade magazines, fiction, poetry, and drama.

Grade 12 College Prep
This is a course designed to meet the needs of students who are considering post-secondary education. Students will be expected to read extensively outside of class. Class time will be devoted to discussions, writing, and projects. Periodic papers will be a requirement. Portfolios will be used, and may eventually be used to exempt students from remedial writing requirements at two-and-four year colleges. SAT verbal preparation will also be covered. Group or independent projects integrated with shops are required.

Developmental English (Grades 9-12)
The Reading/Writing Program emphasizes the academic and critical skills needed to be successful in the real world, addresses the different ability levels and learning styles of students, and complies with the Massachusetts English Language Arts Curriculum Frameworks. The course provides skills development in vocabulary, reading, and formal and workplace writing while focusing on multicultural and justice issues.

Online resources for the language arts:
On Line Thesaurus
On Line Dictionary
E Books

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Math

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Trigonometry
Integrated Math I Integrated Math II Algebra II Part A Algebra II Part B
Developmental Math Developmental Math Applied Math I Applied Math II
    Developmental Math Business Math
      Developmental Math

The goal of the Mathematics Department is to provide students with the necessary skills to graduate from high school and achieve success on a wide variety of tests, including standard placement exams for Community Colleges, exams in trade areas, civil service exams, military exams, etc.

The Mathematics Department aligns curriculum with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and works on updating and expanding our curriculum regularly.

Currently, students are required to take math for three years, although most of our students recognize the importance of mathematical skills and elect to take math for all four years.

Integrated Math I
This course is the first in a two course series. It is designed for students who are not ready to go into Algebra I in the ninth grade, but will be expected to pass the MCAS test in the tenth grade. Traditional Algebra I topics are covered in depth over a two year period. In addition, Basic Geometry topics (which will be tested on the MCAS) are studied.

Algebra I topics studied include the following: patterns and sequences; integers; rational numbers; adding and subtracting algebraic expressions; multiplying and dividing algebraic expressions; solving equations and inequalities; linear equations (graphing, slope intercept form, etc.); systems of equations; and if time allows, statistics and a preview of functions.

Geometry topics studied include the following: angles; triangles; perimeter; area; Pythagorean theorem; scale factors and similarity; circles; area; volume; prisms; cylinders; cones and spheres.

Algebra I
This is a traditional Algebra I course and will include all algebra topics from integers through quadratic equations. This course is recommended for highly motivated students who have excellent general math skills.

Geometry
This course will enable students to identify and work with angles, polygons, and circles. Students will learn altitudes and medians connected with these figures. Perimeter, area, and volume of geometric figures will be stressed. Students will study parallel lines, transversals, ratio and proportion, and similar figures. The Pythagorean theorem, theorems associated with plane geometric figures, right triangle properties, and working with radicals will be studied. This course is recommended for highly motivated students who have successfully completed Algebra I.

Integrated Math II
This course is the second in a two-course series. As in Integrated Math I, algebra topics are studied in conjunction with geometry topics. Students will be experiencing a rigorous Algebra I course while gaining some knowledge of basic geometry.

Algebra I topics studied include the following: functions, equations and inequalities, linear functions and systems, matrices, probability and statistics, exponents, polynomials and factoring, quadratic functions, and rational functions. Geometry topics studied include the following: transformations, radicals, and coordinate geometry.

Algebra II
This course will review all topics from Algebra I. New topics will include binomial theorem, quadratic equation, irrational and complex numbers, negative and fractional exponents, conic sections and logarithms. Students will use graphing calculators to graph equations and solve simultaneous equations using matrices.

Algebra II Part A
This course will review topics from Algebra I. New topics introduced will be radicals, negative and fractional exponents, quadratic equations, the quadratic and distance formulas and the binomial theorem. The emphasis of this course is to reinforce each studentīs algebra skills and prepare them for success in post secondary mathematics.

Applied Math I
This course is designed to develop and refine technical job-related mathematics skills. It uses materials developed by the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD), and includes video, text, and hands-on laboratory activities. Students use scientific calculators to solve problems from specific occupational areas.

Trigonometry
This course will review all topics covered in Algebra II. Trigonometric topics will include Trigonometric Functions and Graphs, including Trigonometric Functions of Special Angles, Values of Trigonometric Functions, Graphing and Laws of Sines and Cosines. Focus will also be placed on Trigonometric Identities and Equations, including Fundamental Identities, Sum and Difference Identities, and Double and Half angle formulas.

Applied Math II
This second year of Applied Math covers topics found in conventional algebra and trigonometry but is taught with vocational-technical applications. Again, students will use texts and videos developed by the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD). Students participate in hands-on laboratory activities to make the material they are studying come to life. Students use scientific calculators to solve problems from specific occupational areas. It is a challenging course, recommended for students who have successfully completed Applied Math I or Algebra I and who wish to pursue a technical career.

Business Math
This course will include business applications covering money records, gross and net pay, regular and overtime pay, fringe benefits, commission, budgeting, shopping, and borrowing and saving money. Calculators will be used throughout the course. This course is recommended for any student interested in the business applications of mathematics.

Algebra II Part B

This course will review topics from Algebra I and Algebra II Part A. New topics introduced will be complex rational expressions, solving literal equations, probability and statistics. The emphasis of this course is to reinforce the students algebra skills and prepare them for success in post secondary mathematics.

Developmental Math
This course will cover topics included in Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II. The class size will be small and the instructors will be mindful of student's individual needs.

Online resources for mathematics:
Math Resource
Math Assistant for Parents and Teachers

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Science

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Biology I Biology II Introductory Physical Science Environmental Science
Introduction to Engineering Design Introduction to Engineering Design Introduction to Engineering Design Anatomy & Physiology II
  Digital Electronic Anatomy & Physiology I Principles of Chemistry
    Principles of Technology Computer Integrated Manufacturing
    Principles of Engineering Engineering Design and Development

Biology I & II

Biology I and Biology II are full year courses offered to all ninth and tenth graders. Topics will focus on the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and will include scientific method, organic molecules, cell structure and function, cell division, genetics, evolution and ecology. Students will learn through a variety of activities including hands-on projects, laboratory experimentation, research, reading, writing, portfolios, presentations and inquiry.

Introductory Physical Science

Introductory Physical Science is designed for students who wish to learn about the physical world of matter and energy. Students will learn through a variety of individual and group activities, including hands-on projects, research, reading, writing, portfolios, presentations, and problem solving. Students will study motion, energy, work, power, and machines.

Anatomy & Physiology I

This is the first section of a two-year course on the anatomy and physiology of the human body with some anatomical comparisons to other living organisms including vertebrates and invertebrates. The beginning of the occurs will consider the relationship between cells, tissues, organs and organisms. The biological systems covered include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, cardiovascular, circulatory, lymphatic, immune, nervous, endocrine, digestive, urinary and reproductive. Each system will be taught at the introductory level and will also include the homeostatic mechanisms that maintain the organism as a whole. Throughout the two years, additional topics that will be covered include human diseases, biotechnology including stem cell research and cloning, pathogenic organisms found in the public workplace, and miscellaneous topics that exists in the current news. There will also be individual integration assignments for students in their respected shops with special emphasis on culinary arts, cosmetology, and health. Laboratory experiments, presentations, and other hands on activities will be offered throughout the year. Students will not be required but will have the opportunity to dissect preserved specimens of organisms that may include: mammals, amphibians, annelids, and fish for the purpose of viewing and comparing anatomical structures.

Principles of Technology

This course presents the fundamental principles of physics for students pursuing technical careers. Units include force, work, and rate taught in applied rather than theoretical settings. Hands-on laboratory activities use a systems approach covering topics from mechanical, electrical, fluid and thermal points of view. This is a challenging course and is recommended for students who have solid general math skills, and wish to pursue a technical career. It is a recommended Tech Prep course.

Anatomy & Physiology II

This course is a continuation of Anatomy & Physiology I. Please see the description of A&P I for more details.

Environmental Science

This course will examine human interaction with the environment. Topics will be drawn from current concerns and will include ecosystems, endangered species, population and energy resources. Students will gain a better understanding of human impact on the earth.

Principles of Chemistry

This course is designed to emphasize the chemical concepts of life and how these establish the foundation necessary for understanding life processes. Laboratory activities parallel class work to reinforce student understanding of these principles.

Project Lead The Way, a sequence of five courses in pre-engineering, is listed below. The first two courses are offered for the 2005-2006 school year. The other courses will be phased-in each year.
Students taking pre-engineering courses must also be enrolled in a college preparatory math course and must maintain above average grades in all their courses.

Introduction to Engineering Design

Introduction to Engineering Design is an introductory course, which develops student problem solving skills, with emphasis on the development of three-dimensional solid models. Students will work from sketching simple geometric shapes to applying a solid modeling computer software package. They will learn a problem solving design process and how it is used in industry to manufacture a product. The Computer Aided Design system (CAD) will also be used to analyze and evaluate the product design. The techniques learned, and equipment used, are state of the art and are currently being used by engineers throughout the United States.

Digital Electronics

Digital Electronics is the second Project Lead The Way course in pre-engineering. It introduces students to applied digital logic, a key element of careers in engineering and engineering technology. This course explores the smart circuits found in watches, calculators, video games and computers. Students use industry-standard software to test and analyze digital circuitry. They design circuits to solve problems, export their designs to a printed circuit program that generates printed circuit boards, and use appropriate components to actually build their designs. Students use mathematics and science in solving real-world problems.

Principles of Engineering

Principles of Engineering, the third Project Lead The Way course, provides an overview of engineering and engineering technology. Students develop problem solving skills by tackling real-world engineering problems. They explore four engineering systems and manufacturing processes: mechanical, fluid, electrical, and thermal. Students learn the properties of various materials, how materials are shaped and joined, and material testing. Through theory and practical hands-on experiences, students will address the emerging social and political consequences of technological change.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing

This course teaches the fundamentals of computerized manufacturing technology. It builds on the solid-modeling skills developed in the Introduction to Engineering Design course. Students use 3-D computer software to solve design problems. They assess their solutions through mass property analysis (the relationship of design, function and materials), modify their designs, and use prototyping equipment to produce 3-D models. Students program robots to handle materials in assembly-line operations.

Engineering Design and Development

This is the capstone course in the Project Lead The Way sequence. Students apply what they have learned in academic and pre-engineering courses as they complete challenging, self-directed projects. Students work in teams to design and build solutions to authentic engineering problems. An engineer from the school’s partnership team mentors each student team. Examples of projects may include a robotic mascot for the school, a remote-controlled hovercraft, or a solar-powered device. Each team must submit progress reports and a final research paper. The team members then defend the solution with an oral presentation before an outside review panel.


Online resources for the sciences:
Nova
Hands On Chemistry
Preserving Your Environment

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History

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
US History I US History II World Cultures
and Geography		 Psychology
      World History

The goal of the Social Studies Program is to have students learn how to become active, responsible participants of their communities, committed to the fundamental values of principles of democracy. Students will: United States History I

This is a survey course of American history presented as a chronological study of the events, issues and themes, from 1763 through the Reconstruction Period (1877). Connections between events of the past and American society today are emphasized. Current events are also discussed.

United States History II

This is a survey course of American History presented as a chronological study of the events, issues and themes from the post-Reconstruction period (1877) to modern times. Connections between events of the past and American society today are emphasized. Current events are also discussed.

World Cultures and Geography

This is a survey course in World Cultures and Geography presented using an area studies approach allowing the student to develop an appreciation for the interconnection among the five fields of social studies. Students will also appreciate how culture regions are grouped, how they change, how they evolve, and how there is a connection between geography and current events.

Psychology

The course is study of scientific psychology and the many diverse fields within psychology. It is based on scientific methodology which gets to the root of how we know what we know both about ourselves and others. Units include: the biological basis for behavior, sensation and perception, learning, development, theories of personality, psychological disorders, and therapies.

World History

This is a survey course of world history presented as a chronological study of the events, issues and themes from the early ages to the modern era. Connections between events of the past and society today are emphasized. Current events are also discussed.



Online resources for history:
History Stories
The History Channel
Democracy in Action

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Physical Education

Grade 9* Grade 10* Grade 11 Grade 12
Physical Education
(one semester)		 Physical Education
(one semester)		 Physical Education Elective
(full year)		 Physical Education Elective
(full year)
Health Education
(one semester)		 Health Education
(one semester)		    

*Note:  Some grade 9 and/or grade 10 students will be enrolled in a Developmental Language Arts course. These students may not be enrolled in Physical Education or Health Education in grades 9 or 10.

Physical Education

This course is designed to offer activities that will stimulate an interest in the value of physical education and instill an attitude toward physical fitness, that will carry over and be beneficial throughout life. Students will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of activities that include; health related fitness, such as walking; individual/dual activities, such as table tennis; and team activities, such as flag football and volleyball. Students are graded on a letter grade system, based on preparation for class, attendance, cooperation and participation.

Health Education

The Health Education course is designed to teach skill and practice in decision making, effective communication, stress management, goal setting and refusal skill. Lessons focus on current concepts of health promotion (the connection between healthy eating/exercise and academic learning), disease prevention and risk assessment (examples of ways to lower the risk for becoming a tobacco/drug user or a teen parent). The relationship between the adolescent as a "consumer" and media influences is also taught. Standard CPR and First Aid is included. Lessons may be integrated with the physical education classes. Students are graded on a letter grade system.


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Electives

Grade 11 Microsoft Office Multimedia I Landscaping Principles Horticulture I Small Business I
Grade 12 Microsoft Office I and II Multimedia I and II License Preparation Horticulture II Small Business I and II

Microsoft Office I
An advanced course of interest to students who would like to learn how to layout text in combination with various print styles, sizes, and graphics for business documents such as newsletters, advertisements, and sales presentations. The primary goal of this program is to learn how to use this powerful integrated software package in such a way as to support learning in other academic and vocational classes.

Multimedia I and II
This course provides students with an opportunity to prepare presentations using text, graphics, video, and audio clips, a digital camera, and scanners. Various kinds of presentations are explored using Microsoft PowerPoint. The course requires an independent project that is closely related to each student's vocational area.

Microsoft Office II
An advanced course of interest to students who would like to learn how to layout text in combination with various print styles, sizes, and graphics for business documents such as newsletters, advertisements, and sales presentations. The primary goal of this program is to learn how to use this powerful integrated software package in such a way as to support learning in other academic and vocational classes.

Landscaping Principles
This course is designed to acquaint the student with all aspects of the landscaping industry. Topics include the scope of the landscape business, principles of landscape design, selection of plants, using construction materials, lawn installation, developing cost estimates, maintaining the landscape, interior plant landscapes, etc.

Horticulture I
This course covers the following topics: plant science, plant propagation, tree and plant identification, using plants in the landscape, and vegetable gardening and math applications related to horticulture.

License Preparation
This course is designed to prepare students for the written portion of three Massachusetts license tests: Pesticide Applicator, Hoisters, and Commercial Drivers License. Students will study the rules and regulations published by the Commonwealth for each of the three licenses, as well as other literature designed to help potential applicants.

Horticulture II
This course will be an extension of the first year of Horticulture I and will cover science and math topics in the field of horticulture. The course will also include environmental science topics and issues related to forestry and agriculture with a focus on science and math.

Small Business Entrepreneurship
In this course, the students will set up a business as a project for the course, utilizing legally appropriate business practices. When the projects are all completed, they will form a significant part of a comprehensive plan, presented in Microsoft Office PowerPoint. Students will become eligible contestants in the Young Entrepreneurial Scholars (Y.E.S.) annual business plan competition. Other areas covered will be business principles and management and personal financial literacy. Underlying principles of technology and employability will be embedded throughout the course.

Additional Course Offerings


Developmental Language Arts

Content includes pre-writing strategies, reading comprehension strategies, vocabulary development and phonic awareness development. (Students are assigned per Special Education Individualized Plan.)

Applied Academic Learning

Classroom assignments and teacher-selected materials are used to support the development of compensation skills related to students Individual Education Plan goals. (Students are assigned per Special Education Individualized Plan.)

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Library Services

Reading comprehension and critical thinking skills are essential for students to succeed on the MCAS. The library is the place where students develop these skills and learn how to access, research, retrieve, process and evaluate information. Open to students during the school day, our library also provides the following media services:


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Guidance Services

Guidance services are available to all students and focus on helping the student attain his/her personal and educational goals. The ninth grade counselor meets with each student on a weekly basis during the Exploratory program to discuss shop selection. Personal and vocational counseling, Special Education and English as a Second Language Services are available throughout a studentīs career at Smith.

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Special Education

Students with special education plans are included in regular education classes in the general curriculum and in vocational shops. Instructional Assistants are available in many classes for student support. Students receive accommodations in regular education classes as listed on their Individualized Education Plans (IEPīs).
The Applied Academic Learning Program is a supplementary special education service, which provides accommodations and compensation instruction related to the Individualized Education Plan goals. Special education specialists provide these services in small groups.
The Developmental Language Arts program is a supplementary special education service for students with significant language skill weaknesses. The program is designed according to the studentīs Individualized Education Plan goals.
The Adjustment Counseling program provides services to help students manage school-related issues and develop connections to local social service agencies where needed.
Related services such as speech, physical and occupational therapy, are available where need is indicated in the Individualized Education Plan.
A transitional special education team meeting takes place at the sending school for all incoming students. A Smith school representative participates in the meeting to help plan services for students entering Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School.

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Peer Mediation

A Peer Mediation Program has been established at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School. Following a training program and under the supervision of a faculty peer mediation coordinator, trained and responsible students will work in teams to mediate conflict between other students. Peer mediators help students identify the core issues involved in their conflict, discuss these core issues in a productive manner, and find non-violent, win-win solutions to the conflict.

Health Services

Healthy students are better learners. To that end, a registered nurse is available during school hours. The School Nurse facilitates positive student responses to normal development, promotes health and safety, intervenes with actual and potential health problems, provides case management services, and actively collaborates with others to build student and family capacity for adaptation, self management, self-advocacy and learning. The School Nurse provides care for illness, injury, and emergency situations; health counseling; medication administration; and health screening tests; and serves as a health resource for the school community. The School Nurse will address specific health care issues with students/ families as needed. The School Nurse links the school health services program with community providers and services.

Advisor/Advisee Program

In the fall of 2000, Smith School initiated an Advisor/Advisee program called S.U.C.C.E.S.S. (Students Using Character and Career Education at Smith School) under the High Schools That Work educational reform initiative. Every student is assigned a faculty advisor with whom they meet monthly. The advisor keeps a portfolio of student work and information and follows the studentsī progress through their four years at the school.

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Earning While Learning . . .


Cooperative Work Employment Program


The Cooperative Work Employment program at Smith Vocational functions within the scheduled program of instruction at the school. Students who qualify can participate in the cooperative work program during their shop week, alternating a week of employment with a week in academic classes. Co-op students earn wages while gaining valuable work experience. Offered to juniors and seniors, the cooperative work experience can serve as a reward to students who excel in both shop and academics and demonstrate a positive attitude in attendance and behavior. Cooperative work experience can also serve as an incentive tool to initiate within the students a desire to achieve a good scholastic average, show the value of good attendance, and demonstrate the benefits of good citizenship in both school and industry. Employment experience is matched as closely as possible to the needs of each student.

The Cooperative Work program serves a variety of purposes:
  1. Augmenting the school curriculum in increasing the skill level of the student.
  2. Providing additional social advancement in a work-place atmosphere.
  3. Providing a wider variety of trade experiences than are available in the studentīs chosen shop.
  4. Providing a different instructional atmosphere than is available in the traditional school shop program.

The cooperative work opportunity originates in each department where the studentīs eligibility and suitability will be determined based on grades, attendance, and a recommendation from the instructor. The final decision for co-op will be based on a composite picture of the recommendation of the instructor, Guidance Counselor, Administrator, and the Cooperative Placement Coordinator. Employers evaluate students and file reports that result in grades earned by students in their technical specialty. During past years the majority of our seniors were placed in cooperative employment positions prior to graduation.

The Guidance Counselor and the Co-op Coordinator work with our cooperative employers to evaluate students. The evaluation uses Work-based Learning Plans to ensure that we are preparing students for the full range of skills needed in 21st century workplaces. "One of my favorite things about Smith School is the Co-op program because I can make money and get experience while earning credits toward graduation."


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Preparing for higher education . . .


Tech Prep


The job market of the future will demand individuals who can solve a wide range of challenging technical problems. Students must be better educated, both academically and technologically, to prepare for the rapidly changing job market which will confront them throughout the next decades. The Tech Prep program at Smith School has been developed in collaboration with three area community colleges to encourage students to prepare themselves for a college education.
By joining the Tech Prep Club students can learn more about specific college programs that will lead them to their career goal. Students can also learn about SATs and the financial aid process, visit area colleges, and meet with admissions officials.
Throughout this Program of Studies there are listed careers that require more than a high school education. Tech Prep students are encouraged to take the more challenging academic courses at Smith to better prepare them for post-secondary education.
In addition, through articulation agreements with area community colleges students can now earn college credit while they pursue their education at Smith School in Agriculture, Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, Graphic Communications and Printing Technology, Information Technology, Forestry/Horticulture, and Manufacturing Technologies programs. The Tech Prep Club meets monthly and is open to all Juniors and Seniors who are seeking a rewarding, high paying career and who may be interested in furthering their education. "Tech Prep is a great way to concentrate your studies so that you can go on to high-skilled, high-tech employment."

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Training for the body . . .


Athletics


BASEBALL
     Varsity
     Junior Varsity
BASKETBALL
     Varsity (boys)
     Varsity (girls)
     Junior Varsity (boys)
CHEERLEADING
     Varsity
FOOTBALL
     Cooperative with Northampton
      High School
ICE HOCKEY
     Cooperative with Easthampton
     High School
SOCCER
     Varsity (Co-ed)
     Junior Varsity (Co-ed)
SOFTBALL
     Varsity
     Junior Varsity
TRACK
     Cooperative with Northampton
     High School
WRESTLING
     Cooperative with Northampton
     High School
 Smith Vocational students participate in many athletic activities. These enrich school life, enhance personal development and increase leadership ability.

The Smith Vocational Vikings are members of the Pioneer Valley Interscholastic Athletic Conference and compete under guidelines set forth by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association.

Athletes are reminded that they are students first and, as such, must be in good academic standing in order to participate.

There are no user fees required for any sport, thus insuring that cost does not exclude any student.
  "I really like the sports teams at Smith Vocational. There are sports for both boys and girls every season and the coaches are really good."

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Becoming a well-rounded person . . .


Activities


Students are encouraged to pursue their interests through a variety of activities. These activities enrich school life, enhance personal development and increase leadership skills. Most students form stronger bonds with teachers who serve as advisors and coaches for these activities. Studies have shown that students who participate in school-sponsored extra-curricular activities tend to earn higher grades, become better at time management and are more successful at the workplace than those who do not participate in such offerings. While many of the programs offered take place after school, some meet during the school day. Students should not reject school activities due to transportation issues.

Intracurricular Activities


The Smith School community strongly supports two intracurricular activities that are woven throughout the school curriculum. They are FFA and SkillsUSA.

FFA
FFA is a dynamic youth organization within agricultural education. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success. Members have the opportunity to participate in career development events, competing for both individual and chapter awards. Members earn degrees which are based on participation and achievements. The Smith FFA Chapter enrollment is open to students of the Forestry/Horticulture and Agriculture Departments.
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Skills-USA
Skills-USA is a student run organization that promotes leadership and employability skills. Students have an opportunity to learn about workplace expectations, social etiquette and total quality management. Students also have the opportunity to compete in area-wide competition in their specific trade skill focus. This competition extends through the state and nation. Some national winners go on to compete on the international level.

Extracurricular Activities


Arts After School
"Creativity is the expression of an individualīs unique self" (Doris J. Shallcross). With this in mind, the Arts After School Group gathers weekly to express individual creativity in the Arts. Whether it be in drawing, painting, poetry, acting, or photography, the students work on group projects and, at the same time they work on self-expression. Some past projects include a mosaic medieval tile painting, depicting a school-wide trebuchet competition; a September 11, 2002 Evening of Remembrance and paintings; and currently a series of photography workshops.

JABOP
JABOP (Just a Bunch of People), is Smith Schoolīs gay/straight alliance. The organization tries to create a safe atmosphere for all students regardless of sexual orientation. This year the group has attended local Pride Marches, conferences, and plays. They also sponsored the 2nd annual Hat Day, brought a panel of gay speakers to address the students, and co-sponsored Mix-It Up Day.

Journalism Club
Students who join the Journalism Club will have the opportunity to participate in many different aspects of putting together a school newspaper; may write editorials, news or features; take photos, draw cartoons, lay out the newspaper, proof-read, or all of the above. Students interested in writing short stories or poetry may contribute to the literary journal. Meetings are held once a week, but students are not required to attend all meetings.

Multi-Cultural Club
The purpose of this group is to learn more about diversity issues to provide support for minority students. The group investigates ways to improve the atmosphere at the school and to offer suggestions for changing school policy. It is also involved with recruitment of minority students to our school community.

National Honor Society
The National Honor Society emphasizes high standards and goals in academics and vocational studies. Specifically, the school belongs to a national organization that recognizes students who reflect outstanding accomplishments in the areas of scholarship, character, leadership and service. The National Honor Society at Smith began in June 2002.

Sportsmanīs Club
The Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School Sportsmanīs Club is for any student who is interested in participating or learning about outdoor sporting activities such as hunting, fishing, archery, fly tying, ice fishing etc. The club is also involved with the stocking of trout in the spring through an agreement with Mass Wildlife TagsīnīTrout program and local businesses.

Student Government
The Student Government exists to aid students in solving problems that might arise in the daily life of the school. It serves as a channel to the administration and the school council. The Student Government has the responsibility to keep the student body informed of its rights and responsibilities. Meetings are held during the school day, but students may be asked to assist in projects outside of the school day. Members must attend all meetings and participate in the activities in order to earn the right to represent the school.

Tech Prep Club
The Tech Prep Club is open to all students in their junior and senior year who are interested in pursuing further education after graduation. The club meets once a month during the school day to share information about careers and colleges.

Women in Technology
Smith Vocational and Agricultural High Schoolīs Women in Technology Program helps young women understand that careers in Information Technology, Manufacturing Technologies, Electrical, Automotive, Auto Body, Agriculture, Forestry/Horticulture, and Plumbing can allow them more career choices and increased salaries. Non-traditional career opportunities can empower young women and give them choices they thought perhaps were "not for them." The group will continue field/site trips that break through these biases, and expose young women to women role models who are in career fields that very much involve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. There are regularly scheduled meetings during the school year to include the presentations of speakers, career decision-making lessons, and interactive technology activities/projects.

Yearbook
The Yearbook Club at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School is greatly involved in all aspects of the planning, gathering information and pictures, and production of the school yearbook. Members assist with photography, sales, layout, advertising, and other goals. All students involved play a major role in the completion of our outstanding and memorable product.

School Council
A school council is representative, school building-based committee composed of the principal, parents, teachers, community members and, at the secondary level, students. Every school is required to establish a school council pursuant to Mass. General Laws Chapter 71, Section 59C of Section 53. Teachers, parents, students and community members can become more committed to improving the school and more supportive of Smith School when they employ the opportunity to serve or be represented on a school council that has a role in shaping the policies and programs of our school. The school council assists the principal in reviewing the school building’s annual budget, in developing the School Improvement Plan, adopting educational goals for the school and identifying the educational needs of students attending the school. The school council at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School meets on first school Monday of the month at 6:00 pm in the Culinary Arts Dining Room at the school.

Animé Club
The Animé Club broadens the horizons and allows students to understand another culture through the Animé prophets. Many of the Japanese traits are deeply embedded in animation. Students will learn to understand a different culture through the hobby and pastime of animation.

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Promotion Requirements

  1. A passing grade in each subject is 60.
  2. Passing shop is required to advance to the next grade level. Grades 10, 11, and 12 shop will receive 20 credits per year. Grade 9 shop will receive 10 credits per year. The shop credits equal the total combined related and shop credits during shop week.
  3. Students who fail to meet promotion requirements in academic classes from year to year may be required to attend summer school before they are promoted to the next school year.
  4. If a student passes a subject through the make up process of summer school, the credits lost will be restored.
  5. Students who make up credits during the summer, and all others whose status is questionable because of credit deficiencies, must provide school officials with made up credit verifications.

Graduation Requirements

  1. A minimum of 141 credits over 4 years.
  2. Must pass shop every year.
  3. Must take and pass a minimum of 24 credits of English over 4 years.
  4. Must pass a minimum of 15 credits of Math.
  5. Must take U.S. History and pass a minimum of 9 credits of History/Social Studies.
  6. Must pass a minimum of 9 credits of Science.
  7. Must meet attendance standards as set in the Student Information Handbook.
  8. Students on Cooperative work agreements will be given shop credit (20).
Course requirements will be waived for those courses not carried by students whose needs necessitate individualized planning. All students must register for a full academic course schedule every year.

Senior Honors
Seniors who have participated in leadership roles at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School (examples - School Council, Student Council, Advisory Boards, Class Officer) will have the distinction of wearing a gold sash/cord during graduation ceremonies.

Senior Privileges
Any senior who has a minimum of an A- (90%) in Term 1, 2 and 3 in his/her senior year in a given course and has maintained an A- average in the fourth quarter, may be exempt from the final exam in such course.

Homework Policy
Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School recognizes regular, purposeful homework as an essential component of the instructional process. Homework is an integral factor in fostering the academic and vocational achievement of students. Regular homework provides opportunities for the development of independent study skills, enrichment activities, self-discipline, developmental practice, drill and the application of skills. Therefore: Back to Table of Contents
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