Classical High School - Blue and White Yearbook (Springfield, MA)

Page 25 text:

Mr. David Meder — History . Ly ® : i z . B ® z : x 2 2 : ‘ s t = ee eee ee ee eee ee ee State Street on a quiet day. my — eo : ee mee Mrs. Elizabeth Simmons — Science Mrs. Andrea Tarczynski — Language Urban Advantages Springfield has a complex city environment that offers educational advantages to both Classical teachers and students. Many teachers choose to work in Springfield particularly because of such advantages. For instance, there are many places for excellent field trips for Classical’s various classes. This year, students from Miss McCarthy's journalism class were able to visit the Springfield Newspapers; students from Mr. Kokonowski’s English classes visited Stage West to view a play; the psychology classes went to Monson State Hospital, and the American Studies class visited Sturbridge Village. One teacher at Classical, Mrs. Erline Provost stated that “Springfield has provided for me the opportunity to be involved with fine young people, to share the wonders of the living world through the science of biology, and to enjoy the intellectual life and cultural diversity that can only be found in a city environment.” Although students find this city environment particularly useful in schooling, they also discover something else just as important; they find a future in the city for a variety of careers and educational opportunities after high school. When the time comes, many students will choose to work in this city. 21 [fe] FACULTY

Page 24 text:

Miss Mary Corcoran — Counselor Mrs. Audrey Desrochers — Gym Togetherness In 1977-'78 there were no longer separate girls’ and boys’ physical education classes at Classical. The two sexes joined together in gym classes having an equal number of boys and girls. Co-education made it a unique year in physical education for teachers and students alike. Even though classes were co-ed, the program included all of its usual activities: badminton, basketball, dancing (modern and square), floor hockey, gymnastics, volleyball, wrestling, and yoga. Techinques were also taught for tennis and golf. Students’ views on co-ed gym varied. Some seemed to find it great. Others took a few things into consideration saying such things as “It depends on the activity,” or “It depends on the kids in the group.” Many people just seemed to find it “O.K.” Teachers’ views also varied. Although co-ed classes are mandatory by state law, Mrs. Kelly, for one, didn’t feel that co-ed gym should be mandatory. She did feel however that it was a good idea for the boys and girls to be together. Mr. Stratton’s opinion was that “It is hard to group according to their (the students) skills, because of the fact that there were three different grade levels; ninth, tenth, and eleventh in each class.” 20 (ce) FACULTY Mrs. Jean Bogan — English Pe 7 rig Ray Hunter has his hands full. Joel Axler watches Tracy Hoffman. Mrs. Desrochers expressed somewhat greater dissatisfaction with the co-ed program. She felt that one should be able to choose between a multitude of activities whether the classes were co-ed or not. Mr. McLaughlin’s ideas differed from the others. He felt that co-ed gym added a positive social dimension to the gym classes. Co-ed gym certainly made it a unique year for every teacher and student involved.

Page 26 text:

Mrs. Shirley Harrington-Office Then... and Now Classical has changed a good deal since some of its present teachers attended school here themselves. Classical was known as the best college preparatory school in the area. The academic pressures here were very strong; most Classical students felt considerable pressure to make the honor roll. Years ago, Classical also had no general program. Today the academic situation at Classical is somewhat different. Although a student still receives a good education here, the academic atmosphere seems less severe, more relaxed. There is generally a younger faculty to relate with than there was years ago. Some of the teachers who received their high school educations here are: Mr. Dinnie, Ms. Keenan, Miss McCarthy, Mr. Macomber, Mrs. Mushok, Mr. Podworski, and Ms. Tammi. These teachers have generally agreed that they enjoy teaching the student body here. Miss McCarthy stated, “The kids are special, and it is a privilege and pleasure to work with them.” She still thinks that Classical is the great school it has always been. “Teachers learn from students,” Mr. Dinnie stated. The learning process at Classical is not just a one-way street; the student-teacher relationship aids in the Mr. Henry Brady-English Here’s the famous Dinnie smile. learning process. Many teachers expressed the view that a few years ago students feared their teachers, making it difficult for students to ask questions. Today, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and students recognize their teachers as being human. Mr. Robert Farr-Science eae ERE RR Ms. Camp relaxes like a typical artist. 22 |[e] FACULTY Mr. Arnold Matz-Language