Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions
of students and parents.
- When will we use this in real life?
- Why didn't I know my child was failing?
- Are you mean?
- Why isn't my child an A student for you when he/she was in middle school?
- Do you play favorites?
- Where can I get help?
- What do I need for class?
- How can mommy and daddy contact Mr. Swaboda?
- When is it to late to pass the class?
- Is the class hard?
- What's Up With All the Tests?
- How come your tests don't look like homework?
- Why do we get a textbook, we never use it?
When will we use this in real life?
This is real life. If it wasn't I wouldn't have to work so hard
and you wouldn't have to study so hard.
Why didn't I know my child was failing?
Good question. Progress reports are sent out at 4 1/2 weeks. For
those who are failing at this time I will send home a progress
report every week until report cards come out. If you didn't
receive one ask your child where it is. It's his or her's
responibility. Also, starting around October 2009 your child's
grade will be available on-line for you
to see.
Are you mean?
At times yes. Mainly I'm a loud talker. If your trying I'm not
mean.
Why isn't my child an A student for you when he/she was in middle school?
In middle school teachers are "encouraged" not to fail students.
At the high school level a child's grade is based on what they
earned. They pass or fail themselves. I do not pass or fail
anyone. I just record the grades.
Do you play favorites?
Yes all teachers do. I play favorites with those who come to
class and try. Give me an effort and you'll do fine. Come to
class and sleep and you won't be my favorite.
Where can I get help?
See me in the morning, ask questions in class or visit some of
the websites I have posted on this site. I will also be tutoring
after school on Wednesdays.
What do I need for class?
A notebook, pen and pencil. All test, quizzes and homework MUST
be done in PENCIL. You may take notes in pen and ink. The most
important thing you need is an open mind and the desire to
succeed.
How can mommy and daddy contact Mr. Swaboda?
Drop me a note, call the office or perhaps the best way is to
send me an email at swabodaw@wcschools.com. Look for the mailbox
on my homepage and click on it.
When is it to late to pass the class?
Anytime you are failing and have not tried to get any help.
Parents, if you call me the day before finals to see what your
child can do to pass it's probably to late. Miracles DO NOT
happen.
Is the class hard?
That depends on the individual. Some will find it difficult and
some will find it easy. I only ask that you give a honest effort
and try.
What's Up With All the Tests?
Good question. I do not have an answer you will like. In the
spring while your friends in other class will be watching movies,
going on field trips or having free days until final exams we
must get ready for 2 tests. As Algebra students you must take
the EOC Algerbra 1 test from the State. Don't complain, we no
longer have to take the local exit test.
How come your tests don't look like homework?
I teach you the process of Algebra that can be used on every
problem. It is up to you to learn to adjust and adapt. If I
wanted to test you on the homework only I would just count your
homework as a test grade.
Why do we get a textbook, we never use it?
By school board policy I am required to give every student a
textbook. I usually do not use them because I revise my teaching
every year. Just because I do not use the book does not mean you
are not allowed to use it on your own. It's a great aid but
remember it expects you to know the basics just like I do.
