On Thursday, October 27, we were fortunate as part of The Memory Project to have a Canadian Air Force veteran, Captain Mort Lightstone, visit our school and talk to our grades 7/8 students about his experience in the RCAF in Korea, Europe and Vietnam.  Mort was accompanied by a journalist and a photographer from Maclean’s magazine.  We have so much going on at our school for Remembrance Day, it was an added bonus to have a veteran speak to us.  Mort brought along a number of his personal items, including pieces of his uniform, photographs and maps (he was a navigator).

In addition, he brought along his report card from Ottawa Technical High School from the late 1940s.  On the inside cover, it read:

Report to Parents or Guardians

Every pupil has Homework to do especially when his report is unsatisfactory.

We would request the parents or the guardians or our pupils to cooperate with us:

First:  By securing the regular and punctual attendance of the pupil.

Second:  By insisting on the careful preparation of homework.  A student should average nightly:
Grade Nine, 1 hour.
Grade Ten, 1 ½ hours.
Grade Eleven, 1 ½ hours.
Grade Twelve, 2 hours.

Third:  By studying this report and commending the successful pupil, or encouraging the weaker pupil with constructive criticism.  Parents are invited to consult with the Form Master or Principal on any matter concerning the progress of the students.

E.D. Hendry, B.A., Principal

On the back of the report card, it read:

WORKING HABITS
The student should develop good working habits.  The following are important:  Neatness of work; promptness in preparation of work; care of personal and school equipment and property; attitude towards the teachers and fellow students; attitude towards his work.

ATTENDANCE
Irregular attendance is one of the greatest hindrances to progress.  No pupil should be absent for less reason than would be accepted by the business man if the student were in his employ.

With our school’s report cards going home later this month, it’s interesting to look at the differences (and similarities) between the two reporting systems.

Derek Logan
Head of School