By Marie Mulvenna

The opening of the school year on August 30 brings numerous changes and additions to St. Joseph’s High School, which reports over 400 enrollment, an increase of 30 over last year’s figures. Father Richard Kieran, principal, announced the arrival of “modular” schedules at St. Joseph’s as well as revised and new courses in almost all departments.

During the summer months Father Kieran and a skeleton staff have prepared an innovative schedule which Father stated would “provide greater flexibility and more individually prescribed instruction.” The school is a member of the Georgia Association of Independent Schools, Inc.

The students returning to the desks this month at St. Joseph’s will find they have more responsibility in determining the use of their time and will experience greater opportunities to work with their teachers on a one-to-one basis or in small groups. They will, as well, be able to take advantage of the learning materials available in the new departmental resource centers and they will also have the assistance of a faculty advisor in planning the best use of their time.

For the first time a home economics course has been introduced and electives are being offered for boys and girls in food and clothing. A new kitchen has been installed at the school and Sister Nancy Marsh, CSJ, will join the faculty as home economist.

A guidance resource center has been set up to offer special assistance to students who are having difficulty functioning in the regular program of studies. This will be headed by Miss Lorraine Zak, former director of the archdiocesan agency for exceptional children. A work experience program is being established for seniors, providing one-the-job-experience for credit.

Father Kieran described St. Joseph’s “modular” schedule as one similar to a college schedule. “We will not be locked in by the traditional schedule,” Father said, “which makes it impossible to do anything else.” He added that the new concept, also in use at Pius, will open up more possibilities to make room for things that are important for the school’s population.

Discussing the new departmental resource centers, Father said they are available in each department and comprise a location where materials, over and above library materials, are available. Students will be able to work there in their free time and also communicate with their teachers. The materials themselves, he said, would comprise audio-visual aids, written material, learning games, “whatever is conducive to learning that subject.”

In the sport area, St. Joseph’s has obtained the services of Coach Bob Williams, a graduate of the University of Georgia, who will serve as athletic director, head football coach, head track coach and physical education instructor. Williams has served as a coach at Clarkston High School, Stockbridge High School and Buford High School. His initial prediction for the Fighting Hawks is that “they will be ready for St. Pius’ Lions on September 1.”

Fifteen of the 36 faculty members are new this year and two priests of the archdiocese will be added to the staff. Father Terry Young will serve as assistant principal and will teach religion while Father David Patterson, who has a master’s in guidance and counseling, will be available for counseling two days each week. Also joining the staff are Sister Mary John Dillard, CSJ who returns to the school teaching French; Sister Linda Carol, CSJ teaching social studies; Sister Jean Meier, CSJ teaching religion and Sister Barbara Wenzel, CSJ who will teach English. The entire faculty is composed of 20 lay teachers, 10 sisters and four priests. The student body is comprised of 65 percent white and 35 percent black pupils.

Additional data on possible enrollments can be obtained from the school office at 320 Courtland Street, N.E.