THE FALCON

December 24, 2023

PRINCIPAL'S PARAGRAPH

Dear AHS Families:

One of our belief statements in Avon Public Schools is that public education is a responsibility shared by students, parents, school personnel, and community members. It is a collaborative effort that extends beyond the walls of our classrooms. The support and engagement of families and the wider community play a pivotal role in shaping the success and well-being of our students.

Throughout this semester, whether through volunteering, attending school events, or participating in parent-teacher conferences, the active involvement of parents has contributed to the vibrant tapestry of our school community. Some of our parents, like State Senator Lisa Seminara (pictured below) take the time out of their busy schedules to come and share their knowledge and expertise with our students. Others join the PTO, which has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that directly benefit our students and enhance their educational experience. From organizing engaging events and fundraisers to providing valuable resources, the PTO plays a pivotal role in creating a sense of community within our school. Most recently they provided grants to school staff to help support initiatives that went above and beyond to ensure our students have the best environment for teaching and learning. Specifically, they disbursed:

$1,900 to the AHS Engineering Department for new CNC Machine Accessories
$1,000 to the Theatre Department for materials to build the set for the Spring Musical.
$1,000 to the school for new gallery furniture.
$300 to the Literary Club to help fund the guest speaker for their upcoming open Mic night.
$250 to the AHS Climate committee for the "Falcon of the Week" initiative.

Their dedication and hard work exemplify the spirit of collaboration that defines AHS. Similarly, our Booster Club has been a dynamic force in supporting our extracurricular activities and athletic programs. Through their fundraising efforts and unwavering commitment, they have contributed significantly to our school spirit.

Even further, some of our parents, Like Nathalie Caso, take on advisor roles at the school. (She is the advisor of our Improv club, and is the Director and Producer for our plays and musicals.) As you can see, we stand firm on belief that learning does not just happen when teachers are up in front of students, it also takes place when our students have opportunities to engage in worthwhile experiences in and with the greater community.

During this holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your support and dedication . I know this is a sentiment that has been echoed many times over, but it is worth repeating every time. Your involvement in your child's education is a gift that continues to give throughout the year. However you celebrate, may this festive season bring you joy, warmth, and precious moments of togetherness with your loved ones. On behalf of the entire AHS staff, I wish you a joyous and restful holiday season.

In Community,

Dr. Lockhart

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Kids Court Academy.pdf

PICTURES

Anatomy & Physiology students performing a dissection of a sheep brain.

On December 1st and 2nd, students in our Model UN club participated in CT Model UN conference from December 1st and 2nd. The Model UN simulations engage hundreds of thousands of students each year, helping them to learn more about the principles of the UN and how it functions. Many of today’s leaders in law, government, business and the arts – including at the UN itself – participated in Model UN as students. The MUN program is exclusively student-run, offering students opportunities to take leadership positions and negotiate with peers.

Our Chamber, String and Concert Orchestras at their Winter Concert, and our in school concert on December 22.

Last week was our staff Winter themed spirit week.... even some students got involved to support.

Our AHS Singers (Treble Voices, Essential Harmony, Rhapsody, Camerata) blowing the audience away at their Winter Choral concert. The final numbers included a community choir with over 150 voices.

Last week the Camerata Singers sang Christmas Carols at the Avon VFW and were pleasantly surprised by the presentation of a new United States Flag by the chapter.

On Wednesday, December 20th our Mock Trial Teams, under the leadership of Ms. Danielle Phillips, participated in the Civics First Mock Trial Competition. Mock Trial provides an exciting opportunity for middle school and high school students to learn about the legal system and enjoy the thrills of acting as a lawyer in a trial. Our Avon White team won their morning trial, while the Blue team won both their morning and afternoon trials and will be moving on to the State playoffs!