Embedded Files
EMPOWERING 21ST CENTURY GRADUATES
This week's Wildcat Way is Mr. Skiba! Who knew Mr. Skiba could whistle like a bird…or sing Christmas carols like Sinatra? He pops into the F-House office to use the printer now and then—always friendly, always kind. While I’ve been in my office trying to keep up with the pre-Christmas hustle, he keeps strolling by whistling or singing a beautiful Christmas tune. And every single time, it instantly lifts my spirits.
His melodies are such a wonderful reminder of the reason for the season. Thank you, Mr. Skiba, for bringing peace, joy, and a whole lot of festive flair into our rooms and our hearts!
On top of spreading joy throughout the F-House halls, Mr. Skiba is a phenomenal educator who demonstrates genuine passion for his subject matter and craft. Our students are lucky to have him!
The Wildcat Way...
The Wildcat Way...
AHS Upcoming Events
Due to the snow day today, Thursday, January 15, 2026, we are implementing the "Inclement Weather Scenario" for our Final Exam schedule. As referenced in our Weekly Updates since December 7th, and discussed by teachers in classrooms the entire month before break, please see the adjusted schedule below to ensure your student is prepared for the next few days.
Tomorrow: Friday, January 16, 2026
Schedule: Shortened Day Schedule (As originally planned).
Exams: Students will take their 5th and 6th Hour Exams.
7:35 – 9:00 AM: 5th Hour Exam
9:10 – 10:36 AM: 6th Hour Exam
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Morning Exams: Students will take the exams missed today.
7:35 – 9:00 AM: 3rd Hour Exam
9:10 – 10:36 AM: 4th Hour Exam
Semester Transition: Immediately following the 4th hour exam, students will officially transition to their 2nd Semester Schedule. They will attend all classes (Hours 1–6) on a shortened schedule.
Lunch Procedures for Tuesday
Lunch times on Tuesday will be determined by your student’s NEW 2nd Semester 1st Hour Teacher. The normal semester 2 lunch schedule will run Wednesday based on 4th hour class periods and can be found in the weekly.
Following the exams, students should check their SM2 schedule in Synergy as counselors continue to make necessary changes to student schedules.
They will either proceed directly to 1st Lunch, or report to their 1st Hour Class (with lunch to follow), depending on that teacher’s assignment.
Thank you for your flexibility and support in ensuring a smooth end to the semester despite the weather.
Sincerely,
AHS Administration
WELCOME TO SEMESTER TWO
As you begin this new semester, remember: every day is a fresh start and an opportunity to shape your future. Success isn't about perfection--> it's about progress and commitment. Stay engaged in your learning, participate in school activities, and build connections that make you feel part of our school community builidng Wildcat Pride. Celebrate every achievement, big or small, and take pride in the steps you take toward your goals. This is your time to grow, learn, and shine—make it count!
Our teachers had the wonderful opportunity to recognize up to three students each based on specific criteria: grades, perseverance, grit, and determination. They loved being able to spotlight students who exemplify these qualities. More importantly, students seemed to genuinely appreciate being recognized in front of their peers, as shown by their smiles in the pictures we proudly shared on Facebook.
We encourage you to talk to your student about this recognition program. If your student was not chosen this semester, it’s a great opportunity to discuss ways they can work toward being recognized in the future. Encourage them to focus on commitment, staying engaged in their learning, building connections with others, and contributing positively to our school community and culture.
Together, we can help every student feel empowered and motivated to succeed. Let’s make this semester a great one!
Report Cards ~ Grades
Report cards will be shared in ParentVue and StudentVue at the secondary level on January 23rd.
Secondary parents can request a printed copy.
You can also print from the "Document" tab in Synergy.
KAPUT Event Monday, Februray 9th
You don't want to do Dodgeball?
Come and join in these activites and/or watch and cheer on your friends throughout the event
Counseling
25- 26 SEM 2 LUNCH SCHEDULE - Sheet1 (1).pdf2nd Semester Student Schedules
Make sure to follow your SEMESTER 2 SCHEDULE on Synergy.
If you have an open hour, report to the Counseling Center that hour.
If you have an error in the schedule, report to the Counseling Center that hour.
Any student requesting a schedule change should use the Class change request form Please note that schedules will only be change in extenuating circumstances. Please see the Class Change Request Form for additional information regarding schedule changes.
Course change requests will not be accepted after this Friday (1/23/26).
Classes continue to be balanced and will result in changes in SM 2 Schedules.
Dear Parents and Students,
We are writing to inform you about an important update regarding the structure and supervision for students enrolled in APS Online classes during the second semester. To better support student success and ensure a supervised learning environment, we are establishing a dedicated APS Online Room.
Effective immediately, students who are enrolled in an APS Online class during their assigned hour between 2nd through 5th hour will report to the new APS Online Room located in G116 of Alpena High School.
We are delighted to welcome Mrs. Kris Copping back as the APS Online Teacher Mentor for the second semester, and she will be supervising this room.
This room is intended for all students taking an online class during these hours. Please note that if the room reaches capacity, Seniors will be assigned an alternate, supervised work location within the high school campus.
Expectations for Students:
During their time in the APS Online Room, students are expected to be diligently working on their online course material and completing the appropriate progress for each course. Furthermore, students will be required to sign in upon entering the room. Students that leave early or allowed to work in the Wildcat den with Mrs. Copping's permission will need to sign out when they exit. Students will also have the ability to meet with subject-specific teachers from Harris Digital Learning when their office hours are posted.
Please also be aware that Mrs. Bedford will be transitioning to focus her full attention on the ACES Academy Classroom. We want to thank Mrs. Bedford for all her work for APS Online and helping us to streamline our work.
We believe these changes are necessary to provide a structured and supportive environment to help your student be successful in their APS Online courses.
-----Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where is the new APS Online Room located?
The APS Online Room is located in G116 at Alpena High School.
2. Which students are required to use the APS Online Room?
The room is designated for all students enrolled in an APS Online class during their 2nd through 5th-hour assigned periods.
3. Who will supervise the students in the Online Room?
The room will be supervised by Mrs. Kris Copping, who is returning as the APS Online Teacher Mentor for the second semester.
4. What if the room becomes too crowded?
If the room capacity is exceeded, Seniors will be assigned an alternate, work location within the high school campus.
5. What are the expectations for student behavior and work completion?
Students are expected to actively work on their online course material and maintain the appropriate progress for each course during their assigned hour in the room.
6. Will students have access to additional academic help?
Yes, students will have the opportunity to meet with subject-specific teachers from Harris Digital Learning when their office hours are posted. Details regarding these office hours will be shared soon.
7. What is the sign-in/sign-out procedure?
Students are required to sign in upon entering the APS Online Room (G116) and sign out when they exit the room when they leave early or when given permission to work in the Wildcat Den.
Thank you for being part of APS online and we are looking forward to working with each of you for the success of our students. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mr. Studley at studleyj@alpenaschools.com phone 989-358-5174 or Mrs. Copping coppingc@alpenaschools.com or phone 989-358-5241
Sincerely,
Mr. Studley
AAACU 2026 Scholarship
AAACU 2026 Scholarship
Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union 2026 Scholarship is now live!
All AHS graduating Seniors and 13-year graduates are eligible for one of 10 guaranteed $1,000.00 Scholarships.
Deadline to apply is March 31, 2026, and for more information, visit:
Items To Review
Senior Recognition ADs
are DUE - February 1st
PURCHASE NOW WHILE SPACE IS AVAILABLE
Purchase a dedicated space in the yearbook to celebrate your senior.
ALL Senior Recognition designs will be created, paid for, and submitted through Jostens.
ORDER YOUR YEARBOOK!
The Deadline to Personalize your Yearbook with your Name and Icons is January 31st!
There is also a limited number of Yearbooks Still available at the current discounted price!
Order Now while Supplies Last!!
https://www.yearbooknerds.com/alpena-high-school
Athletics
PSAT/SAT Test Prep
Upcoming Events:
1/19/26 No School Martin Luther King Day
1/20/26 Start of Semester 2
1/23/26 Deadline to Enroll with APS Online
2/1/26 Senior Salutes Due to Yearbook
2/4/26 FASFA Computer Lab Time 5:15pm - 7:00pm
2/5/26 Early College Spring Informational Meeting for Sophomores & Families ACC Granum Theatre
2/13/26 Half Day for Students
2/16/26 No School Presidents Day
2/20/26 Winterfest Assembly
2/21/26 Winterfest Dance
3/2/26 Exam Experts Session #1
3/3/26 Exam Experts Session #2
3/16/26 Exam Experts Session #3
3/17/26 Exam Experts Session #4
3/26/26 1/2 Day for student PM Parent/Teacher Conferences
3/27/26 No School - Professional Development Day
3/30/26 No School - Spring Break Begins
OK2SAY is the student safety program which allows students to confidentially report tips on potential harm or criminal activities directed at students, school employees, and schools. It uses a comprehensive communication system to facilitate tip sharing among students, parents, school personnel, community mental health service programs, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and law enforcement officials about harmful behaviors that threaten to disrupt the learning environment.
Student Climate Team will be trained to conduct peer mediation for students who are in conflict with one another. The goal of having peer mediation at AHS is to help create a more positive culture in our school where both sides win and one party doesn't feel as if they are being treated unfairly. Please see Mr. Robarge in Restorative Center (School Success) if you need help resolving an issue. Peer mediators don't take sides or place blame on anyone!
Have you ever wondered how our school lunch menus are created? Curious about what goes into deciding a snow day? Or perhaps you’ve been puzzled by terms like "collective bargaining agreement" or wondered why the district can’t purchase gifts for staff?
If so, we invite you to participate in our "ASK APS" initiative. This is your chance to ask the questions that matter to you. Each month, we’ll select questions that are intriguing, timely, or widely relevant to answer in the Superintendent's Update, Central Office communications, school newsletters, or even at Board meetings.
While we may not be able to address every question, we’re committed to answering as many as we can.
Please note: This form is not intended for questions specific to individual students or situations. For those, please reach out directly to your child’s teacher or principal.
Rest assured, your submissions are completely anonymous—no contact information is collected
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