Happy April!

We hope y’all were able to enjoy some relaxation and rejuvenation during Spring Break! We have a lot going on from here until graduation, so make sure you save these emails and stay tuned for additional messages and reminders. April is also usually when we have the culminating competitions taking place in our various sports, arts, and clubs - so try to keep up!  Also, make sure you check our Facebook page regularly - that will help keep you in the loop even more.  Below are the dates/times of some events to be aware of:

• April is the Month of the Military Child - let's remember the sacrifice that our military affiliated students make to allow our country to remain safe.  We are grateful to serve them here at MHHS!
• April (off and on for most of the month)-  ISAT Testing for 11th graders continues with the ELA and Math assessments (see attachment) 2025 ISAT Schedule.xlsx 

Again, remember that this ISAT test carries some weight and DO YOUR BEST!!!  Below is what I sent out last month:

As of this past legislative session, The ISAT test will now carry some weight, in terms of college acceptance.  Colleges are looking for new ways to get more students. They have set new standards for admissions - one of them being the ISAT test scores. Basically, the ISAT (taken in the 11th grade) will allow admission to any student who earns a score of “proficient” or “advanced” on the high school “Math” and “ELA” ISAT.

Here is a link to an article explaining this criteria: https://www.idahoednews.org/news/isat-scores-can-now-be-used-for-idaho-college-admission/#:~:text=In%20a%20return%20to%20pre,factors%3A%20test%20scores%20and%20GPA.

This is precisely the reason for me taking the time to explain the importance of students’ effort on these exams. The scores matter and will be looked at on college applications.  Students’ applications will look much more appealing with an ISAT score that reflects students’ best effort. Our math and English teachers are aware that the stakes are higher now. Our students’ best effort should be a reflection of not only their ability, but also the collective abilities of all of the staff here at MHHS. We know our students are capable, and simply ask that they do their best. Please have these conversations with your 11th grader(s) to partner with us in this quest. The ISAT testing schedule, which begins on March 11, can be found in the attachment.

April 9 - SAT/Sr. Project Day - This is the date for the SAT test (for 11th graders who elected to take the test) and the Senior Project (for all 12th Graders).  On this date (which is a Wednesday), 9th and 10th graders - as well as any 11th grader not signed up to take the SAT - will NOT COME TO SCHOOL (they have the day off).  Please plan accordingly.  Also, 11th graders will be released after they complete the SAT test (which is usually between noon and 1:00 PM).  12th graders will only come for the allotted hour they’re signed up for (to present their Senior Project). Buses will run as normal, so special transportation will need to be arranged. Senior Project link is https://www.mtnhomesd.org/domain/119

April 17 - “Purple Up” Day: As we continue to honor the “Month of the Military Child” throughout the month of April, this day has been set aside specifically to do so by wearing your purple to show your support! Please feel free to share photos with staff so we can share them with others!  We are grateful for our military and the opportunity we have to serve their children!!! 

April 17th - Spring Sports/Activities/College Signings Pep Rally (student body) - MHHS Gym - Assembly before lunch (exact time TBA); modified bell schedule. 

April 19 – 8:00 – 11:00 PM: PROM AT THE ELKS!!!  This dance will take place at the Elks Lodge here in town (325 S 3rd W St, Mountain Home, ID 83647). The theme is “A Night Under the Stars” Prices are as follows:

• single w/ASB card - $20
• single w/o ASB card - $23
• couple w/ASB card - $40
• couple w/o ASB card - $45

April 22 - 7:00 PM: Creative Art Awards Banquet – MHHS Gymnasium

April 23 - MHHS Career Fair: grade levels will be released at specific times to go down to the small gym/cafeteria and gym foyer area to talk with a variety of businesses, entrepreneurs, college representatives, military folks, and much more.  (12:35 PM - 2:45 PM). We will have our Tutorial period moved to the end of the day and will have a modified bell schedule, as well.

April 25 – Academic Assembly/Department Awards - MHHS Gym - We are looking at having this take place during the school day (we won’t have our Tutorial period, rather we’ll use those minutes for this assembly - exact times TBD).  There will be an adjusted bell schedule that day as well.  

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Counselors Corner:

Credit Recovery Changes: A message regarding credit recovery was sent out before the break.  If you are in need of credit recovery, consult with your counselor and refer to the attachment for the flowchart attached here: MHHS Credit Recovery Flowchart.pdf .  Also, if you have concerns or questions regarding credits or any of your student’s needs, feel free to reach out to these awesome ladies.

MHHS Counselors:

Mrs. Simons, simons_nm@mtnhomesd.org: Last Names A-G

Mrs. Riley, riley_bm@mtnhomesd.org: Last Names H-O

Mrs. Sanchez, sanchez_md@mtnhomesd.org: Last Names P-Z

“SCHOOL  PULSE”:

“School Pulse” is our positive mental health opt-in program that we launched last year, here at MHHS. If you're interested, and would like to subscribe to learn more, text "SchoolPulse" to 1-888-737-8089 or opt-in via email at schoolpulse.org/

“Idaho Launch” Application Closes 4/15/25:

The Idaho LAUNCH application window opened on 10/1/24. If you are at all interested in the trades, this route might be one for your postsecondary education! This program highlights the trades and offers quite an incentive (up to $8000) to get prospective students to join forces. See the attachment: IdahoLAUNCH-flyer.pdf  and/or visit: https://nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch

If you're interested in applying for this, please consult with your counselor as you come upon questions with the process.  We will be utilizing the "Next Steps Idaho Portfolio" option in the "Create a Career Pathway" section.    

What is LAUNCH?

Idaho LAUNCH is a grant program that provides students a one-time opportunity to have 80% of the tuition and fees at an eligible institution covered, up to a maximum amount of $8,000. With approximately 75 million dollars available for Idaho LAUNCH funding, it is possible for this program to offer between 9,000 and 10,000 awards per year!

How much is available for students each year?

Students can receive up to one-half of the initial grant award in the first year of a program. However, for programs that are less than 12 months in length, students can use the full awarded amount (80% of tuition and fees up to $8,000) in one year.

Important Dates

• Idaho LAUNCH application opens: October 1, 2024
• Initial applications due: November 30, 2024
• Idaho LAUNCH application closes: April 15, 2025
• Career Pathway Plans due: May 31, 2025

Website for Application: https://nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch 

Empowering Parents Grant Applications Open:

2024-25 Empowering Parents program grant applications are open. Applications will close when funding is exhausted, so we’re hoping families apply right away!

As a reminder, parents of Idaho students ages 5-18 who filed a 2023 Idaho tax return are eligible. Families with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of under 60k receive priority. Grants are $1,000 per student and up to $3,000 per family. The grant funds can be used for a huge range of items to support student learning – including laptops or technology, extracurricular classes, camps, and school athletic fees, driver’s education, tutoring or speech therapy – and more!

The application guide application guide is available in English and Spanish and phone customer service agents are also bilingual.

Homework Club/Math Tutoring is up and running!  Mr. McLean and Mrs. Dubois are in Room 31 from 3-4 PM, Mon-Thurs every week to help students get a little more support.  Please utilize this awesome program.  Note: transportation will not be provided.

CANVAS information:

Canvas continues to be our platform for student work, grades, checking missing assignments, etc.  If you are still not signed up under your child’s account, please feel free to do so.  The following link is a step-by-step slideshow that will guide you through the process (one is in English, the other in Spanish):  

Slide Deck Link

Slide Deck Translated to Spanish

SENIOR CELEBRATION INFO:
ATTENTION: Class of 2025 senior parents! The Senior Celebration Committee is actively planning our annual Senior Celebration Event for our class of 2025 students and we want to get you connected. Come be a part of this great opportunity to provide our seniors with a safe fun-filled graduation celebration! Follow the link to join our Facebook group HERE. We will be posting volunteer opportunities and fundraising throughout the year and every little bit helps!  If social media isn't your thing, you can also email us at mhseniorcelebration25@gmail.com to be added to an email group for info instead. We will meet once a month on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7pm in Mrs. Nordin's classroom (Room 5) at MHHS (thru main office doors and first hallway on the left). Donut sales on late start mornings in the foyer by the main gym are in full swing. We will also be at sporting events and other school activities to raise money so come say hi! This will be an exciting year for our kids and we would love to have you be a part, no matter how much you are able to contribute! We appreciate you! See attached flyer: Senior Celebration 25.pdf 

Breakfast/Lunch and Food Services Information:

Free and Reduced Meal Forms: Free and reduced meal applications are now available online. Breakfast and lunch meals are not free to everyone this year. To qualify for Free and Reduced Breakfast and Lunch, you must complete the Free and Reduced Meal application. You MUST APPLY (or reapply) for Free & Reduced Meals each year. Forms are available on Mealtime at the following link: https://www.mymealtime.com/  You can also use that link to pay for breakfasts/lunches on-line. You will need your student's 9 digit student number which can be found in your Parent Portal.  

MHAFB Announcement:

“High Fives and Good Vibes”

On December 2, 2024, we started and held our first “High Fives and Good Vibes” morning -  having military personnel from MHAFB meet and greet our MHHS students. Our first one in December was a huge success! They typically happen every 1st Monday of the month. (Note: the one in January will likely move to the 13th, since students aren’t back on the first Monday.)

Here is the message our MHAFB Liaison sent out to her military colleagues:

Please join me on the first Monday of each month, starting on December 2nd, as we give the students high fives as they enter the school. Simply give the student a high five, say something encouraging, and begin their day with positivity and happiness. A high-five can increase motivation and confidence to cultivate a positive outlook for the day. It is a simple gesture that can unite us all as we support the students!

 “One Town, One Team!” 

Also,  our MHAFB Liaison would like to announce the following nomination form:

We are excited to announce that nominations are now open for the prestigious Educator of the Year Award! This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the exceptional educators who go above and beyond to inspire and empower our students.

Do you know an outstanding educator who deserves to be recognized?

We are seeking nominations for educators who demonstrate:

• Exceptional dedication to student success: This includes fostering a love of learning, providing individualized support, and creating a positive and engaging learning environment.
• Innovative teaching practices: We value educators who embrace creativity, utilize effective teaching strategies, and constantly seek new ways to enhance the learning experience.
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills: This includes working effectively with colleagues, parents, and the community to support student growth and well-being.
• A commitment to lifelong learning: We admire educators who are passionate about their own professional development and continuously strive to improve their craft.

Nominations can be submitted by Friday, April 25th to my email 366FSS.FSYS.MHAFBSchoolLiaison@us.af.mil with a completed version of this nomination form: Educator of Year.pdf 

Please send this form to staff and families to complete. Everyone can nominate and we are excited to showcase our awesome educators!!!!

Please take a moment to nominate a deserving educator who has made a significant impact on the lives of their students. Your nomination will help us shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible work being done in our classrooms.

We appreciate your support in recognizing and celebrating the exceptional educators in our community!

Domineek Haag
School Liaison Program Manager
366th Force Support Squadron
Mountain Home AFB, Idaho
DSN: 728-6206
COMM: 208-828-6206
CELL: 208-599-0412

366FSS.FSYS.MHAFBSchoolLiaison@us.af.mil

Again, please always stay tuned to our other platforms below (particularly our MHHS Facebook page) for frequent posts that highlight all of the cool things that take place here at MHHS!

MHHS Website: https://www.mtnhomesd.org/mhhs

MHHS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MHHSOfficial/

MHSD (District) Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mountain-Home-School-District-193-688092921378593/

 Have a wonderful month of April and please know that we are here to serve you. It’s an honor to help guide our next generation to open their own doors that lead to happiness and self-reliance.  

Best,

Mr. Gunderson
Principal MHHS