The English department believes that through the study of literature and informational texts, students develop lifelong skills in: reading, writing, speaking, listening, researching, thinking critically, and  analyzing digital media,which will sustain them throughout their formal education and foster growth in every aspect of their lives.  Thus, it is our desire that learners cultivate an appreciation for language arts and an understanding that honing these skills will increase their quality of life.  By interacting with text, students solidify and/or challenge prior belief systems and evolve.  Through the study of literature, students come to appreciate both the struggle and the evolutionary process of mankind.  Through analytic, argumentative, and narrative text-based writing, students will view reading and writing as valuable tools to expand knowledge, enhance comprehension, and augment enjoyment.