Dr. Winters’ 12 Days of Greenwich High School Gifts

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At Thursday night’s Board of Education meeting, held in the media center at the high school, Headmaster Winters expressed thanks for multiple “gifts” he had received recently.

Before reading a list of a dozen thank you’s, Winters apologized to anyone who might be offended by his suggestion that the holidays are only about gifts:

Twelve nights ago I was reminded that participation in AP Classes at Greenwich is at a 10-year high, and that the average score has remained unchanged.

Eleven nights ago John Curtin informed me that roughly 57% of GHS seniors took and passed at least one AP exam during their four years at Greenwich High School.

Ten nights ago, I recalled that Greenwich High School was recently named for the second time to the AP honor roll for expanding opportunity and improving performance for AP students.

Nine nights ago our SAT scores exceeded DRG-B averages, and we had 15 National Merit Scholar semi-finalists (top .5%) and 34 commended scholars (the top 1.5%)

Eight nights ago, I was reminded that excellence at Greenwich High School is measurable beyond standardized measures. In Art, we currently have large numbers of students taking AP classes and high numbers of students winning awards on national competitions.

Seven nights ago, I was reminded that our music programs were named one of the 100 Best Communities for Music Education in the US for the seventh time by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation — a recognition fully confirmed by the wonderful choral, band and orchestra concerts we’ve recently had for the holidays.

Six nights ago, I attended our theater arts production of “Oliver,” and, from comedy improve to Shakespeare to musicals, our theater program is flourishing, providing a wonderful resource for the Town.

Five nights ago, I was reminded of the extensive community service activities at GHS, from food drives and blood drives, to campus cleanups and building homes for the needy, the spirit of community service is alive and well at GHS.

Four nights ago, Gus Lindine gave me some data on the fall athletic season. Our teams posted a combined win-loss record of 128 wins, 38 losses and 7 ties. And can we continue to show our sportsmanship as we expect?

Three nights ago, it was good news from our math team, which is poised to win another state championship, and our We the People team, who just narrowly lost to power house Trumbull,  but came in second in the state:  Not too shabby.

Two nights ago, it was excellent news from the Debate Team and science research students.

And, One night ago, I was reminded that our AVID program was named a Highly Certified Site. Innovation Lab is generating great excitement.  And our freshman mentoring and sophomore counselor advisories are meeting student needs.

Let me recap. Twelve Nights. I’ll stop there. My holiday gift to the Board and all the  principals who were required, I mean chose to attend tonight, I wish you all a good Board meeting and, to all, a good night.

Related Stories:

OPENING NIGHT PHOTOS: Oliver is On Stage at GHS Black Box

PHOTOS/VIDEO: GHS Band Holiday Concert Bursts with Talent!


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