This page will answer questions commonly asked by students and parents. If you
have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
- What do I do if I miss something because of an absence?
- What do I do if I miss a test or quiz because of an absence?
- What if I cannot hand in my assignment/project on time?
- What is the best way to get in touch with you?
- What is your grading policy?
What do I do if I miss something because of an absence?
If you are absent, it is YOUR responsibility to find what you missed. You can
either ask myself or a classmate to get any notes/assignments/homework from
the class you missed. If you know you are going to be absent ahead of time,
for something like a field trip, it is a good idea to get any work BEFORE you
leave. That way you will stay on top of the work.
What do I do if I miss a test or quiz because of an absence?
I will follow all attendance procedures outlined in the Westford Academy
student handbook. If you have an excused absence on the day of a test or quiz,
you MUST take that assessment the day you return. According to the handbook:
"Scheduled tests, quizzes, and projects missed due to an EXCUSED
ABSENCE must be made up on the day of a student’s return to
school, as long as that course meets on that day. All other work
must be made up within three (3) days of the student’s return to
school."
What if I cannot hand in my assignment/project on time?
I understand that things happen that are out of our control. If you feel you
need more time on a project or assignment, you must come talk to me BEFORE the
due date. If you do, we can work something out that hopefully will be in the
best interest of all the parties involved. If you come and talk to me on the
DAY a project is due, I will not allow for any extension. This includes
excuses such as:
"My printer wasn't working."
"My computer wouldn't work."
"Oh did you not get my email. I emailed it to you." and
"I didn't have any staples."
What is the best way to get in touch with you?
The best way to get in touch with me is through email. My email address is:
scruikshank@westfordk12.us. I will always try to get back to you within 24-48
hours of receiving your email.
If email does not work, you can call my mailbox at Westford Academy. The phone
number is 978-692-5570 x 307. Again, I will try to get in touch with you
within 24-48 hours of receiving the call. However, email will get you a faster response
If you are looking to meet with me to discuss your child's progress/work,
please schedule a time to meet with me. I am always happy to discuss any
student's progress with a parent.
What is your grading policy?
For my classes, the weights for each term grade are usually as follows:
World History I
Tests/Projects 45%
Quizzes/Written Work 25%
Homework/Classwork 20%
Participation 10%
Honors/AP Courses
Tests/Projects 50%
Quizzes/Written Work 25%
Homework/Classwork 10%
Participation 15%
Please note that these percentages are subject to change for different classes.