Health & Fitness
New Leadership Making Gains at MHS, Our Flagship School
Matt Geary, MHS Principal, appears on Manchester Review to discuss pool safety, school security, the improved climate at MHS and strategies for closing the Achievement Gap.
Matt Geary, Principal of Manchester High School, appears on Manchester Review in February to discuss the status of MHS and his vision for its future. Geary took over the high school principalship following several years of instability and NEASC reports critical of past school leadership, school climate and culture.
On top of all that, in his first year Geary has had to deal with the tragic pool drowning of student Malvreck Donkor and heightened concern for school security following the Newtown massacre. Geary says swimming is important and will be returned to the curriculum when new procedures are established to ensure student safety. He also discusses plans to enhance school safety. Although he approves the presence of School Resource Officers, he is opposed to arming the staff. That’s good.
Given several administrative retirements and more than 20 teacher vacancies, Geary had the opportunity to build his own team and reorganize the administrative staff to focus on better relationships with students and staff. Anecdotal reports from staff contacted by the writer indicate widespread support for Geary and that his initiatives have MHS heading in a positive direction.
Several years ago student arrests reached a disturbing high of 137 at MHS and Illing. This year as of the end of December there were only 21 arrests. This is largely due to the MAPS’ (Manchester Agencies, Police and Schools) focus on alternatives to arrests.
Geary shares his strategies for improving student behavior with new programs such as “Imagine” and the school’s sharpened focus on narrowing the Achievement Gap.
Geary credits talented staff and students for an overhaul of the school website that makes it one of the best in the State. He claims it’s more dynamic, student centered and interactive. Check it out at mhsredline.com. Watch the video of the flash mob dance in the cafeteria, which Geary states would not be possible without a change in school culture. There’s lots of information on the site for parents, students and the community.
The interview with Geary can be seen on channel 15 Mondays at 9 p.m. in February or on You Tube at any time. As always, viewer comments and suggestions are welcome at manchesterreview@gmail.com.
