Mustang Messenger December December 3 Communication Night (6:30-8:00 pm) December 7 Dear Santa Band Concert (7:30 pm) December 12 Winter Dance Tropical Theme (8:00-11:00 pm) December 14 Holiday Concert (6:30 pm or 8:30 pm) December 16 Band Fundraiser Pickup (2:15 pm) December 17 Jazz Band Concert (7:00 pm) December 21-January 1 Winter Break January 4 Students Return
December 2015
"Building an inclusive community of responsible, respectful and resourceful citizens who value learning."
MVHS - HOME OF THE MUSTANGS!
From the Principal…. Dear Mounds View Families, It is my hope that you and your family enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday. I know that both the students and staff appreciated the much deserved respite as they appear to have returned well-rested and ready for an exciting conclusion to the calendar year. The next three weeks are certain to be filled with energy and anticipation, but it’s also a very busy time here at Mounds View High School. We have several musical performances scheduled, as well as activities in each of our winter sports. We also have a Communication Night scheduled for Thursday of this week (12/3) and our teachers and staff would welcome your company. As we conclude any year and move toward the next, we tend to reminisce about the wonderful happenings of the past twelve months. While things are never perfect for any school or organization, I can say with great confidence that I am a blessed principal because I am granted the privilege to work with you and your children. I thank you for your support and also your willingness to engage in your student’s education. Enjoy what is remaining of 2015 and let’s make 2016 even better! Respectfully,
Dr. Jeffery P. Ridlehoover Principal
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Get to Know ‘Em Meet Ted Bennett My name is Ted Bennett. I teach English/Language Arts. I am close to reaching my 20th year here at MVHS. I specifically teach Regular English Ten, Creative Writing, Expressions and Advanced Elements of Literature. I graduated from St. Cloud State University and earned my Masters Degree from St. Mary’s University. I look forward to teaching at Mounds View High School for many years to come. When not teaching English I spend much of my time with my wife Emily (and an army of pets) in Minneapolis. I still play as many intramural sports (basketball, wallyball, softball) as I can. I love camping and kayaking, which means I really love having summers off. I am a die-hard Minnesota Gophers fan and go to many Twins and Timberwolves games as well.
Meet Justin Benolkin My name is Justin Benolkin and I teach social studies, specifically this year AP US History, Sociology, and Philosophy. This year will be the start of my 9th year at MVHS. I graduated with a B.A. in sociology (minor in philosophy) from the University of Minnesota. Additionally, I finished my M. Ed. at the UofM. While completing my degree in sociology, I focused on the sociology of race and religion. I completed research on religion and the meaning it has in young people’s lives as part of my honor’s thesis. This interest in religion in sociology carried over to my studies in philosophy, where my primary focus was on the philosophy of religion and ethics. When not teaching I spend my time doing as many geeky things I can possibly do. Usually that centers around playing the card game Magic: The Gathering and the role playing game Dungeons and Dragons. I have also been addicted to professional wrestling since I was a child. I am the king of useless wrestling trivia. Aside from these geeky endeavors you can often find me walking my dog, going on forced walks with my spouse (they are always her idea,) and watching cat videos online (there are so many!).
Meet Heather Ward I have been working at Mounds View High School for over 8 years as a Paraprofessional. I have been married to Richard for 22 years and we have 2 children. Taylor and Chase both attend the University of Minnesota at Duluth. One is a senior and one is a freshman. I am a proud graduate of North High School in Minneapolis and attended St. Thomas University in St. Paul. My hobbies include going on adventurous family trips like the cruise for my birthday to Belize this January. My favorite city in the world is New York. I adore the arts. Some of my favorite things are museums, the theater, bookstores and old books, libraries, trying out new restaurants and especially, the ballet. Brunch is my favorite meal and ice cold chocolate cake is my favorite dessert. Working for Mounds View has allowed me to meet so many tremendous kids that have really brightened my life. No matter the day I’m having, at least one student always finds a way to make me appreciate my position in the Student Services Office. I hope I spread a little calm and happiness each day as well.
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Senior Spotlight Henry Alexander What is your favorite food? Bruschetta What is your favorite TV show? Lie to Me What is your favorite movie? The Shawshank Redemption What is your favorite book? Desert Solitaire What is your favorite school lunch? Popcorn Chicken What is your favorite MVHS class? AP Government
Daniel Weinhagen
Who is your favorite MVHS teacher? Mrs. Nesset
What is your favorite food? BBQ Ribs What is your favorite TV show? Scorpion or Limitless What is your favorite movie? Pitch Perfect What is your favorite book? Brave New World What is your favorite school lunch? Popcorn Chicken What is your favorite MVHS class? Choir Who is your favorite MVHS teacher? Mr. Phelps or Senora Rivers
Lauren Wikstrom What is your favorite food? Chipotle Burrito What is your favorite TV show? Blacklist What is your favorite movie? Spy What is your favorite book? Divergent What is your favorite school lunch? Popcorn Chicken What is your favorite MVHS class? Psychology through Literature Who is your favorite MVHS teacher? Senora Rivers
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Athletics & Activities Happenings Athletics/Activities Schedules
Schedules are available online at gomvmustangs.com and /or suburbaneast.org under member schools, select Mounds View. Schedule changes are posted as they become available.
D1 Signing! Congratulations to Sydney Brodt! She signed her National Letter of Intent to play Women’s Hockey at the University of MN-Duluth!
Administration Sydney Brodt & Aaron Moberg, Girls Hockey Head Coach
Winter Sports
Bring your MV Spirit and cheer on your favorite winter sport! Wrestling & Girls Hockey – 12/3 Boys Basketball – 12/4 Dance at Forest Lake – 12/5 Boys Hockey – 12/5 Boys Swim & Alpine Ski – 12/17 Gymnastics – 12/19
Jeff Ridlehoover Principal............................................ 651.621.7103 jeff.ridlehoover@moundsviewschools.org Stephanie Bruggers Associate Principal........................... 651.621.7120 stephanie.bruggers@moundsviewschools.org Michael Schwartz Associate Principal........................... 651.621.7124 michael.schwartz@moundsviewschools.org Robert Madison Activities Director.............................. 651.621.7121 robert.madison@moundsviewschools.org
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Athletics & Activities Happenings (cont.) School Board Recognition
Many of our Fall Athletes participating at State were recognized at the recent School Board Meeting on November 10. Thanks to Emily & Rachel Boyer, Mariah Northrop, Alex Plasencia, Hans Adamsson, Ali Kopiecki, and Morgan Dahl for attending.
State Qualifier
Adapted PI Soccer qualified for State! Way to go!!
Girl’s Soccer
Girls Soccer finished in 4th place in the State Tournament. Congratulations to the team, coaches and managers for a terrific season! Very impressive conference record of 8-0-0 and overall record of 19-1-2.
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Athletics & Activities Happenings (cont.) Notable Finishes
Our Boys Cross Country team finished 9th in the state while Girls Cross Country runner, Morgan Dahl (8) qualified for individual competition and Ali Kopiecki (11) won the conference as an individual and was a state qualifier in tennis.
Ali Kop Morgan
Dahl
iecki
Congratulations to our Girls Swim and Dive Team for their 2nd place finish in Section 4AA and to diver, Jackie Gaworki for her 7th place finish in State!
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Athletics & Activities Happenings (cont.) Speech
Speech has started – weekly meetings are every Thursday after school in the Forum. Please consider joining – everyone is welcome! For more information, please visit http://moundsviewspeech.weebly.com/
Operation Joy Need help with holiday gifts for your children?
Registration for the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf’s annual Operation Joy program is open now. Families in need can register for the Operation Joy program during any daytime food shelf appointment until December 10. Walk-in registration is also available on November 25, December 2 and December 9 from 12:30-2 PM. Residents must bring identification for parent and child along with proof of residence. The Ralph Reeder Food Shelf is located at Pike Lake Education Center, 2101 NW 14th Street, New Brighton.
Looking for ways to help?
Donations are being received at the Food Shelf until December 18. To learn about volunteer opportunities, contact Sue Peake at sue.peake@moundsviewschools.org or call 651-621-7451.
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From the Deans Desk Mark Nelson A-Co (Grades 9-11) A-Da (Grade 12) 651--621-7133
mark.nelson@moundsviewschools.org
Kendra Eckman Cp-G (Grades 9-11) Db-Ho (Grade 12) 651--621-7130
kendra.eckman@moundsviewschools.org
Caleb Bjorklund H-La (Grades 9-11) Hp-Le (Grade 12) 651-621-7129
caleb.bjorklund@moundsviewschools.org
Brian Peloquin Lb-Ng (Grades 9-11) Lf-Os(Grade 12) 651-621-7127
brian.peloquin@moundsviewschools.org
Ryan Poepard Nh-So (Grades 9-11) Ot-So(Grade 12) 651-621-7126 ryan.poepard@moundsviewschools.org
Pictured left to right: Brian Peloquin, Mark Nelson, Ryan Poepard, Toni Vanyo, Kendra Eckman, Andra Storla, Caleb Bjorklund
End of Semester
As we enter the home stretch of the first semester, students are reminded to finish strong. Meet with teachers to prepare for finals and use the tutoring that is available in the Paddock after school Mondays through Thursdays. First semester ends on January 27.
10th Grade
Andra Storla Sp-Z (Grades 9-12) 651-621-7131
Deans will be meeting with 10th grade students on December 15 to discuss the results of the PLAN test that was taken in early November. The goal of this meeting is to understand individual student score reports and how the information can be used with test prep for the ACT during Junior year.
Antonia Vanyo Dean of Support Services 651-621-7128
12th Grade
andra.storla@moundsviewschools.org
antonia.vanyo@moundsviewschools.org
Please have your Transcript requests with a January 1 deadline to Mrs. Bergstrom by December 11.
Student Wellness Speaker Series
Student Services is sponsoring a Student Wellness Speaker Series this year. Students have the opportunity to sign up for one or more sessions that are designed to provide information, support and resources relating to mental health and wellness. The next session is December 9. CLICK HERE for details and to sign up. Session One of Student Wellness Speaker Series: “Recognizing and Overcoming Stress and Anxiety�
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College Corner University of Minnesota Priority Deadline – December 15
Scott Wiens Dean Post-Secondary Services 651-621-7143
The priority deadline for applying to the University of Minnesota is December 15. Do not miss this deadline as priority is given to those who apply by this date. Last year over 46,000 students applied to the U of MN. Student notification dates are on a rolling basis, with all students being notified by February 28.
scott.wiens@moundsviewschools.org
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be completed after January 1 and will be based on a family’s 2015 tax information. Jeff Olson, the Director of Financial Aid at Bethel University, will present a FAFSA informational meeting on January 5 at 6:30 PM in the Auditorium. This evening is open to all senior parents and will cover financial aid and directions for completing the FAFSA.
FAFSA Assistance
On February 23 from 6-8 PM, assistance for the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid will be available at Irondale High School in the computer lab. Professionals from local college financial aid offices will answer questions. Please bring your 2015 tax information to this event for assistance.
Junior Parent Evening There will be an informational meeting for junior parents at Mounds View High School on January 12 at 6:30 PM in the Auditorium. This meeting is open for juniors and junior parents and will cover information on college planning and where students should be in their college search process.
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College Corner (cont.) Scholarship Opportunities Gates Millennium Scholarship - Deadline: January 13, 2016 Minimum GPA: 3.3 Ethnicities: African American, American Indian - Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, Hispanic American Residency Status: U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident / Foreign National Academic Classification: High School Senior, GED, High School Graduate Scholarship website: http://www.gmsp.org American Legion Minnesota State Oratorical Contest - Deadline: January 15, 2016 $1500 1st place, $1000 2nd place, $700 3rd place, $500 4th place This is a speech contest based on Constitutional ideals. State winners proceed to the national contest and compete for scholarships worth up to $18,000. http://www.mnlegion.org/html/oratorical.html Mensa Scholarship - Deadline: January 15, 2016 Must be resident of a participating American Mensa Local Group’s area. Must be enrolled in a degree program in an accredited U.S. Institution of higher learning during the academic year following the application date. Must submit application and essay explaining career, academic and/or vocational goals. Application: http://www.mensafoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships/scholarship-application Washington Crossing Foundation Scholarship - Deadline: January 15, 2016 Scholarship available to students interested in a career in government service. Students must be US Citizens and must write a one page essay. Scholarship application: http://gwcf.org/AppDownload.html Alpha Kappa Psi – U of MN Carlson School of Management - Deadline: January 29, 2016 Scholarships include housing and tuition for Carlson students. Application at: http://www.akpsischolarships.com/apply/ Affinity Plus Foundation Scholarship - Deadline: January 29, 2016 $5000 scholarship to attend a four-year institution Must be a primary Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union member in good standing Scholarship application: https://www.affinityplus.org/foundation/scholarships Contact information: (651) 312-9252 or affinityplus@affinityplus.org AXA Achievement Community Scholarship - Deadline: February 1, 2016 $2000 scholarship for students who demonstrate ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family, and community, and the ability to succeed in college Application at: http://www.axa-equitable.com/axa-foundation/community-scholarships.html Wallin Education Scholarship Program - Deadline: February 1, 2016 Senior at partnering high school, unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, attend eligible college or university, and family taxable income of $75,000 or less with low to moderate assets (proof of income and assets is required). Consideration is given for special family circumstances in making financial eligibility determinations. Application website: http://wallinpartners.org/apply
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College Corner (cont.) Scholarship Opportunities - continued Epsilon Sigma Alpha Foundation Scholarships - Deadline: February 1, 2016 A wide variety of scholarships are available. Scholarships are based on service and leadership, scholastic ability, and financial need. Application at: http://www.epsilonsigmaalpha.org/scholarships-and-grants United Educators Credit Union Scholarships - Deadline: February 5, 2016 $1000 scholarships for graduating high school seniors who are UECU members or a child or grandchild of a UECU member Application at: http://www.uecu.coop/scholarship National Co-op Scholarship Program - Deadline: February 15, 2016 $6000 four-year renewable scholarships to study at a WACE partner institution Must have a 3.5 GPA and complete application and essay Application website: http://www.waceinc.org/scholarship/index.html Catholic United Financial Scholarships - Deadline: February 15, 2016 Available to high school seniors who are members of Catholic United Applications at: https://www.catholicunitedfinancial.org/page.php?ID=111 Minnesota Masonic Scholarships - Deadline: February 16, 2016 Available to high school seniors Renewable scholarships ranging from $1000-$5000 Applications at: https://www.mnmasoniccharities.org/what-we-do/scholarships Scholarship application must be turned in to Mr. Wiens in the Student Service Office.
A Public Service Announcement Click to watch video
“Her Life Is Basically Perfect� Public Service Announcement by Ellie Tsai
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Equity Promise Scholarships
Growth
All students deserve the chance to pursue their dreams after high school. That’s why Mounds View Public Schools created Equity Promise Scholarships — the local scholarship program available to all high school seniors.
Character
Funded in part by the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation, this unique award recognizes a broad range of students who have demonstrated success in their high school journey through a variety of ways. Recipients will have demonstrated academic growth and sustained participation in activities throughout high school. Some may aspire to be the first in their families to attend a technical college, two-year college or a four-year university. All will have overcome challenges, displayed perseverance and exhibited grit along the way.
Perseverance
Each year, all graduating seniors from the Area Learning Center, Irondale High School and Mounds View High School will have the opportunity to apply for an Equity Promise Scholarship. A majority of these one-time awards will be worth a minimum of $1,000 for a two-year college and $1,500 for a four-year college or university. To apply, all students can access the scholarship application online beginning December 15. • www.moundsviewschools.org/alc • www.moundsviewschools.org/irondale • www.moundsviewschools.org/moundsview The deadline to submit the completed application is February 8, 2016.
Achievement
Equity Promise Scholarships reinforce the District’s Equity Promise, “ensuring that all students are prepared for post-secondary success regardless of race, class or disability.” Equity Promise Scholarships are made possible by donors who share the District’s commitment to providing opportunities for post-secondary success. To support this effort, please visit www.moundsviewschoolsef.org or contact Mindy.Handberg@moundsviewschools.org. Applicants can learn more by visiting with their high school dean.
Participation
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Around MVHS WCCO - More Than Names On November 2, WCCO-TV was on campus to gather signatures for their More Than Names campaign. It was a larger-than-life ‘Thank You’ to our troops and veterans. Mounds View staff and students were part of the over 120 thousand signatures! More information can be seen here: YouTube Video Facebook Video
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Around MVHS Orchestra Trip to Laurentian
In October, orchestra students attended their annual retreat at Laurentian Environmental Center. It was filled with rehearsals, performances, games, and a costume dance party! This retreat has been a part of the orchestra program for over 40 years and has always been a great way to build the orchestra community, as well as prepare for their fall concerts.
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Around MVHS “Light It Up Green” - SkillsUSA SkillsUSA members showed their patriotism by encouraging others to join in the Light it Up Green campaign to show support for our Veterans. Place a green bulb on your front porch, in a bedroom, office or other place to show your continued support. Members of SkillsUSA also made signs of support and posted flags on the front school grounds for Veteran’s Day.
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Around MVHS AP European History
Interactive life size posters created by AP European History students to learn more about leaders who ruled Europe in the 1600 and 1700s.
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Around MVHS MV Choir - “Open Mic Night”
Mounds View Choirs hosted a New York themed “Open Mic Night” in November. Songs were performed by Mounds View Choir students with proceeds going to support the Choir trip to New York in March.