At first glance, a traditional secondary school might not look that different from any other highschool. Students show up in the morning, attend classes, struggle through exams, make friends, enjoy or don’t enjoy their day, participate in extracurricular events, etc…

There are, however, some very distinct differences that make ATSS stand out from other schools. Firstly, there’s UNIFORMS. Some like the convenience of knowing what they will wear to school each day and recognize the importance of dressing for success. Others don’t like the fact that everyone looks the same and are starved to express their individuality.

Secondly, you should find that there is a HIGHER EXPECTATION in terms of behaviour and LEVEL OF RESPECT between staff and students and students themselves. The overall school size is typically SMALLER THAN OTHER SCHOOLS (currently 380), so people get a chance to know eachother. For better or worse, no one should be anonymous at ATSS. You get MET IN THE MORNING at the front door with a handshake before you enter; teachers are waiting in the hallway for your arrival to class and everyone expects that they will be greeted with a handshake and/or friendly salutation.

It may seem that unimportant things get noticed at ATSS, but we believe it’s the “little things” that make a different. From paying attention to professional dress, to STANDING TO SPEAK your mind or greet a formal visit to class, to sharing space in the hallways or being expected to help out wherever and whenever you can, ATSS attempts to foster a family-like environment where the safety and well-being of all is cared for.

In the end, it’s the PEOPLE that MAKE A DIFFERENCE in our programs. Our teaching staff is inspired and dedicated. Indeed, when they aren’t engaging students in teaching they are dedicating their extra time to interacting with students through intramural activities or providing extra help with academics. One wonders, when they ever get a chance to rest!!Our students, as well, you will find are confident speaking with almost anyone, confident, polite and helpful. They are key in creating an atmosphere where people feel welcomed and respected. We hope ATSS is a place where they feel they belong.

To be sure, we have only just begun at our new facility. But what a great home we have! A new gym, artroom, foods lab, metal and woodwork shop, as well as, larger fields, courts and areas for meeting with friends make for the perfect learning environment.

Our 121 LAPTOP PROGRAM makes us unique in the district and in British Columbia. All students 9-12 are issued a laptop to assist in their studies. Teachers have tablert PC’s. Many offer their entire course on-line so that students can stay atop their studies virtually should they be away from class. Almost all rooms are now equipped with laser projectors to aid in the presentation of materials. Prices of laptop rental are modest, considering that they include a 100% spill/drop warranty. I haven’t even raved about our MUSICAL THEATRE PROGRAM that hosts first class stage performances involving students from across the entire school or our GROWING ATHLETICS PROGRAM.

We look forward to growing our programs to maximize their current strenghts, as well as, identifying areas that still require improvement. That is why, we would like you to answer the question, “How is Traditional School Different?”. What’s great about ATSS and where do you think we need to improve. Remember, we encourage everyone to express their views and trust that they will do so in a way that is respectful.

I look forward to reading your comments.

Warmest regards,

J. Parker