By Kevin Shannahan

Over 200 students, family members and staff at Fairview Alpha started the school year at their open house Thursday, Aug. 4. Fourth year Principal Brooke Williams introduced the faculty and went over events for the upcoming year. Parents registered their students for classes and picked up last year’s test scores for their children.

Principal Williams was especially excited about the upcoming school year. Fairview Alpha’s School Performance Score has risen considerably under her tenure and currently stands at 60.3-a six point increase from last year. That score is not final as potential bonus points have not been released yet. Williams attributed the school’s success to her faculty, staff and students

“We have some great, great teachers over here,” she said.

The principal and teachers also actively seek out students to be tested for the district’s Gifted and Talented program. While classroom instructional time is paramount, Fairview Alpha also offers its students opportunities to learn and grow outside of the classroom. The school sponsors an active 4-H Club and will be starting a student council this year.

Students also spent the last summer working and learning with project 212, a hands on learning program about nature funded by a Federal 21st Century grant, which has been renewed for the upcoming school year. The school also features a book club and has had an Art after School program for the past two years in which two NSU organizations, Alpha Omicron Pi and Kappa Pi help the future artists.