SITE VISIT RECOMMENDATION COMMENTS

1. The atmosphere at Helix is warm, friendly, and inclusive. This was frequently noted by students, parents, and teachers alike.

2. The Helix Charter High School staff has shown creativity and leadership in developing programs that respond to student needs. "What will work for students" seemed to be the unifying theme of the Helix staff. Special recognition should be given to the weekly tutorial program and the ExL tutorial system.

3. The staff is to be commended for its collaborative "can do" attitude. Change has become a way of life at Helix and staff members pride themselves on their ability to "try new ideas," adapt, modify and change.

4. Student leadership at Helix impressed us as inclusive, supportive and enthusiastic. The ASB students are outstanding representatives of the school.

5. The principal's leadership style is collaborative. An emphasis is placed on teamwork. Many teachers spoke of the leadership team as "fellow teachers."

6. The Helix Charter High School faculty is to be commended for their commitment to provide an academic core curriculum to all students. Graduation criteria and exit standards are in place for all students.

7. The Helix faculty is to be commended for their development of unified standards and rubrics.