Each of our schools’ leadership teams analyzed the factors that impact their students’ ability to engage deeply and achieve academic success. They shared stories of their students and families, some of whom are facing serious challenges associated with physical wellness, social-emotional stability, unique learning needs, family security, mental health, violence, and food/housing uncertainties. They discussed the obstacles that their students face daily when preparing to come to school on time, ready to learn.

Below is the school’s story as seen through the eyes of school leaders. They discuss the culture of their school and the community.

As mentioned in our school story overview, “Southern is the heart of the community and has served multiple generations of families in South County. Our community has tremendous pride in the school and its traditions. School spirit is strong – not just for our current students, but for alumni as well.” While community pride is strong, there is also a culture that is focused on growth in academics, engaging instruction, and readiness for post-secondary success. In partnership with our parent groups, Business and Community Advisory Board, Signature Integrated Community Stakeholders Team, and AVID program, regular opportunities are provided for students that prepare them for their post-secondary interests.  Our staff members pride themselves in their ability to make connections and build quality relationships with our student body. The staff of Southern High School (from administration to teachers to support staff) works collaboratively to problem-solve and provide even greater opportunities for our students and community. The school collects formal and informal feedback frequently from stakeholders to reflect on our practices, and ultimately, to improve them.

We boast a strong Signature Program, Design: Preservation and Innovation; maintain our status as a Green School as well as a Wellness School of Distinction; and have an ever-growing athletics program in which approximately one quarter of our students participate. We are the only comprehensive high school in the county with the Agriculture Sciences high school completer – a program that is tied to the history and current economy of the area. For those students who are interested in the arts, we have award-winning Dance, Music, and Visual Arts programs. As a 2009 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, a rigorous academic program is a constant focus; and our students perform well on state and national assessments. At Southern High School, we promote access to rigorous instruction as a part of our academic program, and each of our students aim to be well-prepared for their postsecondary experience.

The leadership team in each AACPS school reviewed all of the factors that may influence their students’ engagement and achievement in school; these challenges include academic data elements, community history, and socio-economic aspects of each community. The school’s leadership team identified the following elements as impactful for their students.

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