Central High School - Helios Yearbook (Grand Rapids, MI)

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Counselors Smooth Path for Students Always available to solve the trying problems that often arise. Central ' s counselors are constantly combat- ing a variety of student problems: potential drop-outs, vocational training, college plans and entrance questions. Taking pride in their modern offices which were re- cently remodeled for privacy, the counselors worked in a light, cheerful atmosphere. Though often deluged with paperwork, the four counselors were always happy to do everything possible for the students and answer their questions. Problems were handled to the benefit of the student through their system of dividing the pupils into grades and then alphabetically. This system makes communication much more effective and each counselor performs his duties without confusion. Three of the counselors were newcomers to Central this year; Miss Feringa, Mr. Raterink, and head counselor. Mr. Galant. In the words of Mr. Galant, speaking for the entire staff, We are very impressed with the willingness to learn displayed by the students in Central High School, and it is our hope that this positive attitude will motivate our student body to develop their skills for future endeavors. Counseling aid from Mr. Raterinl helps student Charles Co decide on next year ' s courses. Margaret Feringa Counselor Bernard Raterink Counselor 22

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Wesley Perrin, Assistant Instructional Principal, feels Central has greatly improved within the past five years. In addition to a renewed student pride in Central, he has also found students to have an overall improved out- look on Education. Guiding programs for the student and faculty during the school year, he also acquainted the new teachers to the studies and surroundings of Central. Before becom- ing assistant principal Mr. Perrin spent five years as head counselor. He also supendsed the night school classes held in the building during the past several years. Both jobs have given him added experience in the field of student-administration relations. One of the few major difficulties Mr. Perrin believed should be given added attention here at Central is the lax attendance records of some of the students during the past year. This, he felt, leads to a possible lack of interest in studies and could even lead students to drop out of school. In the key position of assistant principal Mr. Perrin leads a hectic but satisfying pace. However, experiences at Central have been very rewarding ones for Mr. Per- rin. and he hopes to continue helping the school to his liest capacity. Mr. George Cleveland, in his second year as Admin- istrative Assistant Principal was again presented with challenging responsibilities. Long hours of work, how- ever, did not hamper his enthusiasm for accomplishing many tasks; improving student-faculty communication, disciplining student violators, and organizing Central ' s schedule of assemblies. Mr. Cleveland also played a major role in helping lower the rising rate of absen- teeism during the year. His main goal in assisting Principal Romani was to help keep Central ' s image high in the public eye by making certain school rules were observed and respect- ed. Always on the go, Mr. Cleveland spent much of his time speaking before interested groups of parents or contacting individuals concerning school policies. He felt that CentraFs staff of teachers, besides exe- cuting excellent curricula, worked well with the adminstration in solving many of Central ' s disciplinary ' problems. He also believed Central ' s staff was well qualified to work with student problems. When school hours are over, he finds relaxation in spending much of his spare time with his wife and four children. He also has great enthusiasm for hunt- ing and tries to make occasional trips to his favorite hunting grounds in Texas or Mexico during his vacation. Mr. Wesley Perrin, Instructional Assistont Principal, tant facets ' n school curriculum. Administrative Assistant Pri list of stucients appointmen :ipal George CleaveloncJ, goe

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Student Body Looks to Specialists for Aid Full time professionals giving manv hours of valuable service did not go unnoticed hy the 1.800 students and faculty members. Librarian. Mrs. Brower and her two assistants. Mrs. Barkin and Mrs. Cilenn maintained Cen- tral ' s well-equipped and quiet library. Aiding individuals as well as orientating entire classes to library resources, the three also worked closely with teachers in planning unit studies and providing specific materials. Mrs. ' alsh. the school ' s part-time speech correction- ist. worked with individual students in correcting their problems through advanced therapy. Students learned meticulously how to overcome their disadvantages and to communicate effectively. Giving minor medical aid and teaching good health habits both are part of Mrs. Johnson ' s job as school nurse. Twice a week students as well as faculty were able to consult her on medical and health problems. Margaret Brower Mrs. Brower, librarian, and student Linda Blackburn thumb ttirough the Index File to locate a book. Louree Walsh Speech Correctionist Vowel souncJs are stressed by Mrs. Walsh, Speech Correctionist, as she works with Linda Alexander. 23