Welcome to Cowboy Country! I am thrilled to welcome you back to the 2009 – 2010 school year.  As Principal, I am excited to open school this fall as Chaparral Empowerment High School.  As we prepare for the first day of school, we believe you will be astounded by the educational opportunities we offer at Chaparral.   Chaparral operates as a collection of four independent Small Learning Communities, called Academies, to effectively engage students with our own “four R’s of Education”: Rigor, Relevance, Relationships, and Responsibility.  All incoming ninth grade students have been assigned to a house within our Freshman Academy.  To benefit our students in grades 10-12 the faculty has created interdisciplinary lessons based on themes and student interests, such as the Academy of Arts & Media, the Business, Science & Technology Academy, and International Leadership Academy.  As a member of one of these communities, you will have the opportunity to get to know your administrator, counselors, and teachers in a more meaningful and lasting manner.   As an Empowerment School, we are happy to announce that we retained our “8AB” block schedule and lowered average class sizes by more than five students in each class.  Our creative scheduling provides students the opportunity to take eight classes each semester.  While our block schedule and academies create new opportunities for students, you must accept responsibility for your role in the educational process.  It is vital that you attend school daily.  Our excellent faculty will be teaching bell-to-bell during each period, so it is imperative that you come to class on time and prepared to learn.   At Chaparral, we believe in the entire “high school” experience.  To get the most out of your Chaparral career, I encourage you to participate in athletics and join one of our numerous student clubs and organizations.  Please view a list of our extra-curricular activities to help you find one that fits your interests and talents. Finally, I would like to invite all parents and families to become our partners in our quest to ensure that each student receives the rigorous curriculum and necessary support to be successful in an increasingly global society.  Chaparral High School is the only high school in southern Nevada to partner with an official Parent-Teacher-Student Association.  I encourage each of you to become involved with this unique organization.   Please look for more information in upcoming bulletins and newsletters. Be Proud To Be a Cowboy! Kevin McPartlin Principal