THE FALCON
October 27, 2023
PRINCIPAL'S PARAGRAPH
Dear AHS Community,
We are days away from the end of the first quarter. Where does the time go? Our students wasted no time diving into their coursework. The first quarter was marked by academic rigor and impressive accomplishments. We saw excellent performances in mathematics, science, literature, and a wide range of elective courses. However, high school life is not just about books and exams; it's also about discovering passions and interests beyond the classroom. Our students have been eagerly participating in various clubs, sports, and activities. During these first 9 weeks of school we have seen the revival of the Debate Club and the Model UN, and the formation of several new clubs including the Interact Club, the Avon American Legion, and the SMILE club. From sports teams to drama productions to art exhibitions, the diversity of talent and interests among our students is truly remarkable.
Our school is more than just a collection of students and teachers; it's a community for learning and growing. The first quarter saw the emergence of meaningful connections amongst both students and staff. We have been focusing on our Portrait of a Graduate skill of collaboration. Teachers are charged with providing multiple opportunities each week for our students to effectively communicate their ideas, contribute to group efforts while being independently accountable, be flexible in their thinking, learn how to compromise, track and reflect on progress and solve problems together. Our hope is that by explicitly teaching these skills, and creating the conditions for our students to exercise them, we will help prepare them for the next phase of their life.
As we reflect on the first quarter of the school year, it's evident that our students have successfully embarked on being the best they can be for this school year. We couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments and look forward to witnessing their continued growth. Thank you for your unwavering support and involvement in our school community. The next quarter promises even more exciting events and activities. Be on the lookout for details on parent-teacher conferences, school-wide assemblies, and much more.
In Community,
Dr. Lockhart
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Winter Sports Registration is now open. https://students.arbitersports.com/avon-high-school-athletics/avon-high-school-winter-athletic-registration-23-24
The main office is hosting a “Be Our Guest Halloween Contest” on Monday Oct 30th. Students, Be Our Guest and come into the main office during your lunch on Monday and take a guess as to how many M&M’s are in our jar. The winner will be announced on Tuesday and receive a prize.
The Prom Committee is running a fundraising event at Puerto Vallarta on November 2nd to raise money for Prom. Come support the Junior and Senior Classes.
Attention Seniors - if you are interested in a post high school military pathway, such as Enlisting, Applying to an ROTC unit, or applying to an Academy, please email Mrs. Mascoli, so that you can be invited to have lunch with our veterans on Nov. 10th.
Cross Country 5k Turkey Trot Registration is now open. See the flyer for details.
INTERNSHIP OFFICE & OTHER STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES- Enrichment Opportunities provided by Junior Achievement & The Hartford.
Steps to Success: Think Like an Entrepreneur (for grades 9-12) Register ASAP. Over five weeks students will: learn & apply design thinking to brainstorm customer-centric ideas, formulate finances, gain experience conveying a business’s value, learn the LEAN business-plan model, and more!Dates: 11/13, 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, & 12/11 - Monday evenings from 5 – 6:30 PM. Sessions will be held on Zoom. Program costs $60, but Scholarships to cover program costs available! Applications
WHAT’S NEXT ON WEDNESDAYS? (In school field trip for seniors) NOVEMBER 8, 2023- 9:15-10:00 AM. This virtual session will focus on Four Year Colleges and Military options. Students will have the opportunity to virtually interact with our presenters and learn information that may guide them when looking to make a decision about what comes next. Email Mrs. Mascoli to register.
ENTREPRENEURIAL ACADEMY (for grades 10-12) This is a unique opportunity that brings high school students together from all communities in Connecticut to a corporate site to gain skills in entrepreneurism, leadership, teamwork, ethics and career development. The focus of the 15-week, 30-hour after school program will be the development and launching of an actual business, including securing investors to liquidation. Application is due by Friday, November 17. Programs will start the week of January 8, 2024. Final schedules will be provided upon acceptance.
CAREER CONNECTIONS for YOUNG WOMEN (grades 9-12) This program is aimed to provide young women with practical advice and wisdom about the world of work, from how to get hired to understanding your personal brand, and a network of support as they navigate what comes next. The lessons, conducted over 10 sessions, will be enhanced with experiential learning through industry specific panel discussions, soft skill training, and career exploration. Applications are due by Friday, December 1st. Program will start the week of January 8, 2024 and take place at the JA Office in Hartford. Final schedules will be provided upon acceptance.
The Hartford Power Skills Development Series (grades 9-12) (email Mrs. Mascoli to register) Professionally delivered virtual webinars/All sessions kick off @ 4:00 PM/45 min interactive and engaging sessions:
Professional Networking Thurs. November 16, 2023
Professional Communication Thurs. December 14, 2023
Time Management & Prioritization Thurs. January 18, 2024
How To Be Successful in an Internship Thurs. February 15, 2024 (grades 10-11)
AP Testing Fees
All students who have signed up for AP exams will receive an invoice for the AP Testing Fees. The invoice will encompass all fees based on the number of exams signed up for. The cost of each exam is $95.00. If you need financial assistance please contact your student's counselor. If there are any discrepancies in the amount invoiced please contact Jaclyn Lawlor – jlawlor@avon.k12.ct.us. Once generated, the invoice will appear in PowerSchool. Please ensure you are using an internet browser to view the invoices (mobile app will not work). Click on the invoice and PowerSchool will redirect the user to My School Bucks to complete the transaction via echeck or credit card.
*If you utilize My School Bucks, you can view and pay directly from their site/app*- Please note, this is the preferred method of payment. If payment needs to be made by check, please make check payable to: Avon Public Schools and make sure to reference AP exams and student name in the memo.
NEWS FROM NUTRITION SERVICES
Nutrition Services has transitioned back to a Free or Paid system this school year. Breakfast remains free for all students this school year. Students who qualify for free or reduced meals will receive one free lunch per day. Students whose accounts are in good standing with a zero or positive balance can purchase a la carte snacks if authorized by their parent/guardian on the account. Avon Public Schools will never refuse a student a meal or allow a student to go hungry. Any negative balance accrued by paid students charging a meal will be the responsibility of the parents or guardian of the student.
If your family is in need of financial assistance you may need to apply for free or reduced meals. Students may be directly certified for free or reduced meals through SNAP or the Husky program (please note, not all students receiving Husky qualify for free or reduced meals). If you do not participate in either of these programs or are unsure of your status, fill out an application. This is required annually. The application and other information regarding Free/Reduced Meals can be accessed by clicking on this link; Free and Reduced Meals information. Please contact Nutrition Services at 860 404-4734 with any additional questions or concerns.
PICTURES
Spirit week: Beach Day
Spirit week: Barbie Day
Spirit week: Western Wednesday
Spirit week: Pep Rally Thursday featuring the battle of the classes.
Homecoming Dance. The theme was Disco!
Supporting our Unified Soccer Team at their game vs. AHS Girls Soccer Team.
These amazing young men (Devin and Gilroy) were two of our representatives to the CASCIAC Men of Color in Leadership Conference held at Berlin High School.
Senior chemists measuring food dyes in sports drinks.
Collaboration in Geometry class.
Marine Science field trip for students to gather marine life for the tanks.
Senior wellness hike to the Heublein Tower.