FRIDAY FALCON

October 21,2022

PRINCIPAL'S PARAGRAPH

Dear AHS families,

By now, you have heard me consistently referring to one our key levers for sustaining success at AHS: meeting the needs of every students so that they are consistently challenged and empowered to be self-directed, self regulated, and resilient as they live, learn, earn, and navigate their own pathway to success. Though we are always striving to be a high performing school, we do believe that success looks different for every child. We celebrate wins, both big and small, and we highlight actions that embody our goals and core beliefs.

In a prior edition, I shared a list of clubs and activities, and encouraged students to get involved. These extracurriculars can help with networking, building new connections, uncovering a lifelong passion, creating a career choice, or ultimately just defining identity. For some they can hone in on serious skills that may take them to the next level (as in the case of Blake Barrett who has the potential to qualify for the New England Interscholastic Golf Tournament- picture below.) Extracurriculars are also a way to build new skills such as cooperation, problem-solving, decision making and leadership. Additionally, an after school activity is a great way to unwind from the rigorous academic requirements that our students face. This week, auditions were held for the AHS Jazz Band which is currently seeking students who play guitar, drums, bass, piano, saxophone, trumpet and trombone. They had a decent showing of students who wished to display their talents. It is important to note, that not only do we offer a wide range of activities, the advisors and coaches for those extracurriculars are extraordinary individuals who are great at modeling dedication and passion. This week, our Field Hockey Coach Terri Ziemnicki achieved her 400th win. She has been a Field Hockey coach in Avon for the last 33 years. What a tremendous accomplishment!

Our goal is always to prepare students who are well rounded and balanced, who have both academic and personal interests. Along with clubs and activities, we also strive to create experiences throughout the school day to help students hone into their passions. Yesterday, our senior Wellness class ventured out on a field trip to Talcott Mountain for a beautiful Fall hike (pictures below). The students had a fantastic time. The purpose of the trip was to show students that Hiking is a lifetime fitness activity that is beneficial for mental, physical and social health. It is an inexpensive way to get exercise, enjoy time with friends and boost mood.

Our goals, commitments, and focus areas are all created to lead our students to the end goal of Graduation in June. As we work towards that end, I just wanted to let our Seniors and their families know that the Graduation Venue has been determined. Graduation will be held at the Bushnell. The date will be determined and voted on by our Board of Education next month and shared out shortly after. Yes, I know it is only October, but we all know how quickly time flies when you are having fun, and we certainly have fun here at AHS!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

There will be a parent meeting for any player interested in coming out for the Farmington Valley Generals Monday Oct 24 @ 6pm in rm w121. Please reach out to Mr. Percival for more information.
Tutoring in the City is back! Students interested in mentoring kindergarten and first grade students from Hartford, see Mrs. Mouning in the school counseling office or Ms. Crum in N102 to sign up for this rewarding activity. Training will be provided. Sessions begin Tuesday, Oct. 25^th.
Avon Voices for Equity is back! This club provides a safe environment for group discussions pertaining to race relations in America and in Avon, along with discussions on how to make our school and community a more equitable and inclusive environment. You are invited to our next meeting on Thursday, Oct. 27 at 7:00 p.m., virtually. Please see Mr. McDermott, Mr. Lukowicz or Mrs. Mouning if you are interested.
Avon Music Service Society will be having its first acoustic night of the year next Friday, October 28th! At 7:00, please come to the AHS gallery to see great performers sing and play instruments to celebrate Autumn and Halloween! The tickets are $5 and will be going towards the Souperbowl which gives the money to Gifts of Love! Buy tickets at the door or outside the cafeteria on Friday. See you there!
The World Language Department was just notified the Regional Education District (le Rectorat) has canceled all trips abroad due to the economic downturn in France. As of now hosting in March will not happen but we are still planning our trip to France in April 2024. Thanks to all of you who were considering hosting!
Are you interested in writing or photography? Do you enjoy collaborating with others to create works of art? If so, come join the Literary Arts Club as we help promote, and publish the work of aspiring artists. Meetings are every Monday at 2:25 in room N213. Reach out to Mr. Lombardo (jlombardo@avon.k12.ct.us), or Spriha Dharan (dharans25@avon.k12.ct.us) for more information.
This April, Mr. Kramek and the Close-up program will be taking a week-long field trip to Washington DC. They will be flying down to DC to meet with schools from across the nation to discuss and learn about the nation's capital and the current issues affecting America today. See Mr. Kramek in room w113 to get the sign-up information." Click the link to view the video
Avon Friends for Equity would like to invite you to the Second Annual Community Fest on Saturday, October 29th from 2pm-4pm at Elizabeth Park (across from the Pond House Cafe in West Hartford). There will be delicious Caribbean food, music, and fun to celebrate our diverse community at Avon Public Schools. All APS students, families, and staff are welcome! Last year’s event was a blast, and many new connections and friendships were formed. Let's keep coming together to strengthen our community! Folks can RSVP at AvonFFE.org/events.