Sayreville War Memorial High School - Quo Vadis Yearbook (Parlin, NJ)

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Super- intend- ent Each year presents new and different problems for the superin- tendent of schools and 1973-74 was no exception for our superin- tendent, Mr. Henry Counsman. With the Middle States evaluation visitation at the senior high, continuous curriculum revisions at the junior high school, the opening of the Truman School, and new cur- riculum thrusts in the elementary schools, this year particularly pre- sented a special challenge. The Middle States Evaluation takes place over a ten year period and, in the past, Sayreville War Memorial High School has always maintained accreditation. This year, however, Mr. Counsman feared heavy criticism of our school because of the library facility. The library lacks sufficient size for the growing student population. In an attempt to alleviate this problem and other facility problems throughout the system, such as gymnasium space in both the junior and senior high schools, a special referendum was presented to the voters in September by the Board of Education. Mr. Counsman voiced much disappointment because of the defeat of this proposal. Despite this setback, however, he has pledged himself to propose another referendum to improve the school facilities here in order to preserve the high standard of education which has become a Sayre- ville trademark. Several years ago, Rutgers University conducted a study of the ele- mentary schools in our area. Their findings were published in the Rutgers Report. Mr. Counsman has been using this report in the past two years as he meets regularly with the various principals to work out new curriculum revisions throughout the school system. Some of his projects include a complete revision of the elementary science, social studies and language arts areas. He was also responsible for the introduction of Beauty Culture as a vocational offering in the sen- ior high school. This year, he has been directing a revision of the ele- mentary health and mathematics curricula. The 1973-74 school year has found our superintendent faced with an increasing number of important educational problems. Yet, through careful thought, patience, and concern for the young people of Sayreville, Mr. Counsman tries to meet the challenge of our youth. 16

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Curriculum

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Principal “The relationship between student and teacher is education,” says Dr. Marie Parnell, also emphasizing that schools exist for the students. Without this vital student-teacher relationship, the most elaborate schools would be worthless. An active administrator, who is always seen throughout the school, Dr. Parnell is one of the few principals in the state who teaches classes. This added dimension enables her to personally observe areas that necessitate change. Through her understanding and foresight, Dr. Parnell has formulated continual improvements in the curriculum and the school com- munity. Dr. Parnell is proud of the curriculum improvements here at SWMHS and says that changes will always be made to upgrade the educational offerings. She takes great pride in the Middle Atlantic States Evaluation Committee’s recent report commending our school for excellence in its curriculum and its progressive attitudes. Dr. Parnell also credits the Board of Education’s progressive attitude in maintaining this ongoing standing. Our school offers strong programs for all students, regardless of their career ambitions. The offerings vary from honors courses to those with a vocational and avocational intent. Dr. Parnell feels that a school must attempt to bring all students together, since we are all members of the same society and must cooperate after we leave school. Many of our graduates remain in contact with our school, and Dr. Parnell relates this fact with much satisfaction. She is confident that our high school prepares its graduates for their future lives. 17