PROGRAM CHANGES FOR
GIRLS P. E.

Dear Editor:
In response to the two letters written to the editor in previous issues concerning the inclusion of more dance classes in the girls' Physical Education classes, I would like to explain the philosophy of the girls' Physical Education Department. We believe in attempting to educate the "whole" girl in developing movement coordination patterns and in learning activities for present and future leisure time enjoyment. We attempt to look at the broad spectrum of activities and to meet the needs of all students.

We evaluate our curriculum often and make changes every year. In the past two years an elective program at the junior-senior level has been introduced allowing students more freedom of choice. These activities are somewhat limited by our facilities.

A well‑qualified dance specialist is a member of the department; and as a result of her efforts, jazz dance will be offered the third quarter for the second year. Ballet is contemplated for the future when a qualified teacher is available. Tentative plans have been approved for a dance studio for small classes in 1973‑74.

In the future it may be possible for a girl to concentrate on dance, gymnastics, swimming, or individual and dual sports or team sports. As facilities permit, this will be based on the desires of the students for the activity and the experience of the members of the girls' Physical Education Department.

Miss Karen Kenyon
Girls' Physical Education

POSSIBLE RESALE OF PAPERBACK BOOKS?

Dear Editor:
The bookstore's policy concerning the resale of paperback books fails to comply with changing economic and ecological standards. Since the Maine West curriculum committee continues to widen its use of softbound books, some facility should be provided for their resale.

Present objections by the bookstore to selling used paperbacks center around lack of storage space and the idea that softbound books are not durable enough to be used again.

The storage space should be easy enough to find. The idea that used books aren't durable enough to last several readings is unfounded and ridiculous! Colleges resell softbound books successfully and probably with a substantial profit.

If the administration maintains the bookstore in order to provide materials at minimum cost to the student, then the resale of paperbound books fits in quite easily.

Judy Branding, Roxanne Miller, Kim Norton, Janet Kossick, Kathy Sahs


WELDING MACHINES NEED ACCESSORIES

Dear Editor:
A news item appeared in the January 23 issue of the Westerner that stated that "welding machines and accessories" have been donated by the Chemetron Corporation.

It is true that one M.I.G. welding machine without the accessories was donated, but this machine is now being stored in the custodians' garage and cannot be used until about $700 is available for the accessories.

This type of machine would allow the students to learn to weld with the same type of welding machine that modern industry is using.

Due to the district's austerity program, the money needed to complete the machine is not available. So the machine may sit idle for three to five years before it can be put to use. Not only is this a waste of the machine, but I feel that it is unfair to our school. Maine North has one machine like this, and Maine South has two that are in operation.

Mr. Robert Twohill
Metals teacher