Rome Free Academy - De O Wain Sta Yearbook (Rome, NY)

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PRECISION THRU THEORY Mathematics is a science of logic, despite what many students think. Under the leadership of Mr. Ernest Stockwell, Rome Free Academy’s team of logicians valiantly struggle to impart to the student body the basic principles of mathematics. An assortment of courses is offered. For the business-orientated such courses as bookkeeping and business arithmetic should have appeal. Along with the old standbys of Math 10 (a geometry course) and Math 11 (a combination of intermediate algebra and trigonometry) is the rel- atively new course of Math 12. This course consists of three parts: part A, advanced algebra; part B, solid geometry; and part C, introductory calculus. Students have a choice of B or C with a mandatory A. All seniors participating in these classes will agree that this is definitely one of the hardest courses at R.F.A. This only proves that mathematics is no “scrub” subject. It is an impor- tant part of the curriculum. In this age of rapid scientific developments, mathematics plays an extremely vital role. Also, mathematics as a science of numbers is displayed before us in every conceivable way as a conven- ient method of identification. Peek-a-boo Math student hard at work. “So that’s the Pythagorean theory!”

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FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS “I'm not going to type that!” Dear Abby. . . Even computers are not infallible. Rome Free Academy has taken great strides towards the future in its ever-expanding business program. The installation of such IBM data pro- cessing machines as the sorter, the reproducer, the printer, and the key punch machines repre- sents a milestone in business education, not only in Rome, but throughout our entire state. We are one of a few schools that have ventured to in- clude this as a scholastic rather than a vocational course in our curriculum.This course presents an opportunity for students to learn the operation of data processing machines and gain a broad background knowledge of the field. Initiating his first computer course this year with a select num- ber of seniors, Mr. Hickey is enthusiastic in mak- ing this IBM course a success. It is the ambition of the department to develop an interest within the student for his work in later life. Our school is proud of its farsighted leaders who initiated this unique program. Although other schools are using data processing machines in administra- tional work, RFA is one of a very few schools in the entire state which actually teaches data pro- cessing courses. Our business department, with its fourteen in- structors, offers a wide variety of subjects: typ- ing, shorthand, bookkeeping, transcription, sales- manship, business management, office practice, business law, and business and commercial math. It is the ambition of the business department that, through future expansion, they will be even better prepared to provide the college-bound student with courses which he will find beneficial in further studies and future life and to provide the business major with a well prepared back- ground for his future career. “Must I repeat it again?”

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Photo finish “Our group had twenty-three per cent fewer. . .” CARETAKERS OF Developed through the eloquence of the Normans, the brevity and terseness of the Saxons, and the pomp and majesty of the Romans, the English language represents the apex of grace and style. To further develop the stu- dent’s proficiency in mechanics, style, and vocabulary, the English department, under the competent guidance of Dorcas C. Watters, provides the students with selected novels, poems, and other materials of enlightenment. As sophomores, we became aware of the symbolic meanings in novels. Through further mastery of grammar and spelling, we developed a flawless background for the more difficult junior level of English. As juniors, we ex- plored the concepts of American literature and the forms, peculiarities, and uniqueness of poetry, inspired and con- ceived in “moments of tranquility.” As seniors, some of us have developed our talents in practical writing and speech; others have increased their knowledge of English Literature. The English department also plans enjoyable and edu- cational programs for the students. Through the audio- visual facilities the students are able to interpret in depth the significance of drama. Through the lectures in music and art, the students receive a glimpse of the general cur- riculum of life. Recordings of Shakespeare, plays, and poems develop a sensitivity and understanding of the lan- guage and its pronunciation. The department furnishes excellent magazines, such as Cavalcade, Practical English, and Letters from England. Book club participation is available to supplement one’s literary awareness. The students are indeed fortunate to be endowed with an experienced and distinguished staff. May the English department continue to supply the requirements for knowledge, ability, and maturity of the students. Only through the department’s guidance can a deep apprecia- tion of our language evolve.