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Show Wednesday, September We have two entirely different schools, remarked John Elwell, principal of Marsac Elementary School, in response to the critical comments aimed at Park City schools. He described the term schools as being too vague when assessing the adverse remarks elicited by the National Training and Development Service survey. Citizen Comments The published results of the survey seem to corroborate Mr. Elwells contention that Marsac is a source of pride rather than a sore point. Of the 63 comments directed at Park Citys schools, only one reflected derogatorily on the elementary school in par- ticular and 6 persons volunteered complimentary replies. On the other hand, of the responses which specifically mentioned the high school, one was favorable and 12 were unfavorable. These statistics do not reflect com- made ments regarding inadequate facilities. COALITION 1374 spent seven years as an elementary school principal in this state. The head of Marsac has also served on California and Utah state curriculum committees and is presently the director of the North Central Region for Utah Principals Elementary Association. Commentary Mr. Elwells complete commentary on the NTDS survey is as follows: In the past two years, the Marsac School has been in continuous evaluation for upgrading the curriculum. The library is small, but of high quality. It has recently been improved with the purchase of many new books. Math, reading, and spelling programs have been renewed and are comparable to any of the best schools in Utah and the U.S. Test Evaluations Recent independent achievement test evaluations conducted by the Rocky tain Regional Resource Center at the University of Utah reported scores well above norm levels compared to the six neighboring districts. Data of the nationally Moun- Credentials Mr. Elwell recently started his third year as principal of Marsac. His credentials include a Bachelor of Science and Masters Degree in Curriculum and Educational Administration from Brigham Young University, and graduate study in curriculum , philosophy, and psychology at the University of California at Los Angeles and Stanford University. Mr. Elwell has professional education experience in elementary and secondary schools in California and Utah and has normed Metropolitan achievement tests showed Park City elementary students above average to excellent in all areas and especially high in primary reading and math programs. Several innovative programs have received national and state recognition. The Marsac School has been designated as a Phvsical Fitness Demonstration Pages xplaon Center for its i community would like its elementary school to be. We are striving to further the curriculum and instruction as material and human resources allow. As in the past, we hope to work with the school patronage and seek their support. exemplary program. It has recently been notified that it has won the Utah State Championship for the highest student fitness scores in the state for 1974. Funding The Utah State Board, has granted $8,000 to Marsac for an innovative instructional resource center. Last year we were funded by the State for unique approach for drug abuse prevention and other high risk behaviors. This particular approach, based on value clarification and Survey We Office 1 mile North of Heber on Hwy. 40. in Heber Valley; large trees, stream, and well permit included, $5,500 w $2,500 down. 1.6 acres Rancho with lovely 3 bedrm., 2 bath new home, custom decorated. New 45 x 60 bam, loafing shed, Snyderville area. 5 acre the NTDS survey. Some general negative remarks were difficult to interpret because of their vagueness. The term schools in the survey is too vague. We have two entirely different schools and many facets to our operation. The survey itself was probably a good sample and served its purpose. I would like to see a more complete survey which would include our total school community, such as Summit Park, Snyderville, etc. Most of the school criticisms have been heard before. I do think the school should be responsive to all the criticisms whether we agree with the comments or not. Better decision making, is now being given major emphasis in education. Curriculum Our students also enjoy Spanish, band, and a wide range of sport opportunities. Skiing, wrestling, tumbling, and soccer, along with the usual sport activities are very popular with our students. The last few years Marsac has had an expanded school day schedule that allows a three-hou- r teacher preparation, evaluation or inservice training period each week. Most of the children use this afternoon to take school sponsored ski lessons. Part of each afternoon is normally used for P.E. periods. Evidently, this program is misunderstood by a very few. Children still spend the same amount of time in school and the teachers do not get this time off. Data indicates the school achievement has been getting much better and the one afternoon contributes to better prepared teachers and a student body with high morale. This program has also been successful in other Utah districts and ski towns in other states. Parents, comrelations, public munications, and continuous evaluation should be a part of our business. Some school criticism is unfortunately heresy from uninformed people. I would urge all citizens to visit the schools, attend school board meetings, support school activities, and attempt to find out what is going on. Apathy and malicious gossip do not improve community schools. 1015 acres near Wanship overlooking dam only $325 per acre. Excellent terms. vf "many Mormons are in education. This state also has some excellent teachers colleges that provide many top candidates in a surplus market. Advisory Committee I understand that there has been a special citizen advisory committee formed to study local education. This is not a new approach in attempting to improve the schools. Many school districts have advisory committees for each schoolit has proven to be a good vehicle for improved communication and relations if properly used. SURVEY QUOTES Below is a sample of the responses recorded by NTDS participants which were made by Park City citizens concerning pur schools. "We have good schools. Schools not up to standard. The grammar school is getting better. The grade school is good. Some of the teachers in the high school are excellent. Terrible curriculum. school high like the creative programs, in the schools. I I was shocked at whats going on at the high school. LDS The NTDS also recorded a few negative remarks a about dominant L.D.S. influence in the schpols. This is a common criticism by non Mormons of Utahs schools and government. I can find no basis for these comments in the Marsac School. Our staff represents people from -- whelming support. P.T.A. varied We have benefited greatly from a strong P.T.A. that has helped many school projects. They have organized an outstanding volunteer teacher aide program and community resour- ce service. Community of the many positive remarks made about the elementary school in teachers, and students have given this program over- Uniting buyer and settee are appreciative i backgrounds PTA groups beginning to work only because of the outside people coming in. I like the small schools. High school needs upgrading of classes and subjects. and locations. I know of no survey or of anyone asking faculty members of what faith they might be at the time of hiring or after. We are only concerned with professional qualifications and proven competence in the field of education. The LDS majority of Utahs population is certainly a contributing factor of why so in- volvement has definitely improved communications of what the school is doing and what the Newer modem 3 bedrm., 3 story home on Vi acre in Timberlane Estates. Must see to appreciate. $35,500. 'T WASTE NATURE One acre lot near Rockport Lake. Water and power available, $5,500. 5 lush acres on Snyderville Rd. Excellent terms, $30,000. Large 2 story, 5 bedrm. home on one acre, only $20,000. Lovely 1 acre campsite on Duchesne River $3,950 $1000 down. ITALIAN CUISINE in an elegant but casual atmosphere - MINI-BOTTL- 900 recreation acres with streams, pines, roads. $275,000. AND WINE AVAILABLE ES 6:30-10:3- 0 6 Large older 4 bedrm. home in Heber (near Kamas) $13,750, Try $6,000 down. pm Tuesday thru Saturday pm-1- 0 pm Sunday Closed Monday 412 MAIN STREET - PARK CITY |