News and Notes

Phoenix Alternative

...rising

 

Principal’s Message

 

Principal’s Message

Welcome visitors. In the role of principal with Phoenix I have examined what it is that makes Phoenix work so effectively. Working with Phoenix's dedicated staff and drawing on my own observations the answer has taken shape and become crystal clear for me.

So what is it exactly? What is the secret that makes Phoenix so successful? What is the element that finally allows the possibility for things to flow academically? What are we doing that incites such attention from other schools both alternative and regular as well as the press?

Many applicants cite that our discipline and rigidity is what brought them to us. However, Phoenix simply has rules and these rules are found almost anywhere and everywhere. In addition, we operate on the premise of treating people fairly but not necessarily equally. Different situations require different considerations just as different abilities solicit different expectations. In some ways we are more rigid than students may be used to. In some respects we are more accommodating. Frankly, it is not our rules and regulations that make us successful. Rules only work when the choice is made to follow them.

Others cite the smaller class sizes and attention from teachers.  Here too there are a few misconceptions. There is no chasing done at Phoenix. The engine that powers students is individual and internal. Teachers and staff simply make themselves available. Responsibility  rests solely upon the student. For us, only decisions made by the students are of real value.                    ….continued on next page