THE FALCON
November 22, 2023
PRINCIPAL'S PARAGRAPH
Dear AHS Families,
Here we are, already on our Thanksgiving break. While the historical context and narratives continue to be scrutinized and reinterpreted, the common theme of the season is a celebration of gratitude, family, and unity. The holiday is an opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect on the blessings and positive aspects of their lives. It encourages people to express gratitude for the good things they have experienced throughout the year. It is a time when families traditionally come together to share a meal, strengthen bonds, and enjoy each other's company. It is a time for appreciation. Appreciation is the art of recognizing and valuing the efforts, contributions, and uniqueness of those around us. It is the acknowledgment that every individual, every accomplishment, and every moment plays a crucial role in the vibrant tapestry of our community.
As we embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving, let's cultivate a culture of gratitude and appreciation. Take a moment to express your thanks to a teacher, a classmate, a friend, or a family member. Small gestures of appreciation have the power to create a positive ripple effect within our community. In the coming weeks, let's actively seek opportunities to appreciate the strengths and efforts of those around us. Whether it's a simple thank-you note, a kind word, or a gesture of support, let's build a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and appreciated.
To you remarkable students, I appreciate your dedication to learning, your resilience in the face of challenges, and the diverse talents you bring to our classrooms. To the families who form the backbone of our community, we appreciate your unwavering support, involvement, encouragement, and commitment to the educational journey of your children. May this Thanksgiving be a time of gratitude, reflection, and appreciation for the bonds that unite us. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving filled with warmth, love, and the company of those who matter most.
With gratitude,
Dr. Lockhart
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Girls Basketball tryouts are November 27th, 28th and 29th. DV is 3:00 to 4:30, JV and Varsity, 4:30 to 6:30. In the main gym. Good luck.
The Boys Basketball tryouts will be Nov 30, Dec 1, and Dec 2nd, Nov 30 & Dec 1 : Freshman tryouts will be 2:30-4pm in the main gym. JV & varsity tryouts will be 4-6 in the main gym, Sat Dec 2nd : JV & Varsity will have tryouts/practice at 7am - 9am. Nov 30 & Dec 1 : Freshman tryouts will be 2:30-4pm in the main gym. JV & varsity tryouts will be 4-6 in the main gym
The AHS Business Club has meetings every Thursday after school in Room W213. Our School Store Committee and WIBN Committee meets every other week so stay tuned in Schoology! Contact chimades25@avon.k12.ct.us or vermanh25@avon.k12.ct.us for more info!
Do you want to show new students around the school and teach them all about AHS's clubs and activities and make them feel welcomed here? We are looking for you to help the Student Ambassador Club. Come to the meeting this morning at 7:20am in the Orchestra room. If you have any questions, please see Ms. Toyen in the School Counseling office.
Winter Sports Registration is now open. https://students.arbitersports.com/avon-high-school-athletics/avon-high-school-winter-athletic-registration-23-24
Enrichment Opportunities provided by Junior Achievement, The Hartford, and UCONN. Please contact Mrs. Mascoli if you are applying for any of these.
Interested in Nursing? Attend The Early Introduction to the Nursing Profession Program (EINP) Hosted by UConn’s Nursing Dept. (In school field trip for grades 10-12) Nov. 28, 10-11 AM Community Room - Students interested in the college nursing programs are encouraged to attend this information session to learn more about this summer program which gives high school students hands-on experience in the nursing field.
Interested in Business, Marketing, Sports Management, Hospitality? Attend Junior Achievement’s, “A Day at the Ballpark” Dec. 6, 9 AM -12:30 and join other CT. high school students and explore careers in Sports Management, Business, Marketing, and Community Engagement. Students will hear from Yard Goat team management and partake in an interactive career panel and stadium tour. Lunch will be provided.
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. 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)- If you would like to learn more about core professional development skills that apply to all walks of life, such as professional branding, real time management, networking, communicating like a professional, resume workshops, LinkedIn recognition, and more join The Hartford’s (free/virtual) Power Skills Development Series. The Hartford is a top performing insurance company, listed on Forbes top 150. These professionally delivered virtual, interactive and engaging webinars kick off @ 4:00 PM and run for 45 minutes. Learn directly from experienced professionals working in the field with a combined 22+years of corporate experience. Students who attend 4 or more Power Skills Sessions will earn a badge of honor and distinction showcasing to future employers their commitment to personal and professional development on their LinkedIn Profile. For more info. Click here to view a brief video of the program.
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)
5. Junior Achievement Small Business Entrepreneurs Dec. 4th 9:15- 10 AM (Click here for info. & to register) In school Field trip (must also register with Mrs. Mascoli
6. Junior Achievement Careers in Finance Dec. 18th 9:15-10:00 AM (Click here for info. & to register) In school Field trip (must also register with Mrs. Mascoli)
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
On Tuesday, we said farewell to Mrs. Sarah Parsons who embarked on her retirement after 33 years in the Avon School District... Mrs. Parsons was a ball of love and light and brought fun and positivity to every space she occupied (as evidenced by her Turkey hat :-)
She loved and cared for her students, and held high expectations for them all. Her dedication, passion, and advocacy were evident every single day. She will truly be missed. We wish her good Luck and good times on her retirement!
Interact Club’s first service project of the year - Operation Cares 2023 - Boxes to Boots - for deployed service members unable to be home for the holidays. Thank you to all who supported!
Last weekend the AHS Theater Club put on two amazing performances of the play "Triangle."
Never a dull moment in Mr. Tinker's Chemistry class.
Collaboration in Ninth grade English!
On November 12th, The UNICEF and Amnesty International clubs hosted a 'Walk Against Hate' at the AHS track. It was described as more than just a walk; but a movement toward a future free from antisemitism, racism, and all forms of hate.