by John Selby ‘15
As 2014 comes to a close Mr. Bradesca faces his fourth semester as the principal of Saint Ignatius High School. The leader of the school has made numerous changes, ranging from school policies, such as the legalization of wearing “boat” shoes, to academic issues, such as the implementation of a new summer reading program. 2014 promises to bring more reforms across the academic and social spheres of campus life.
The class of ’88 graduate will focus on the examination of two major themes going forward: student resiliency and wellness. The goal of the 2014 initiatives is to attempt to define what the “work” is in the established motto: “God bless the work.”
The focus on student resiliency will center on social, academic, and spiritual arenas.
“Issues such as grade inflation, weighted grades, and the grading scale warrant further research and discussion, as do other hot button topics, including homework, authentic assessments, standard-based grading, common assessments, and academic departmental structures” says Mr. Bradesca.
Also, while no specifics have been mentioned, Mr. Bradesca says that a campus-wide approach to wellness as a school initiative is coming soon.
“[It will] involve not only the physical and nutritional aspects of wellness, but also the social and mental components which are equally essential for a healthy Ignatius community,” he said.
Nothing is set in stone, but Bradesca aims to continue his legacy of reform when students return in 2014.
