December 2015 - Westside High School

Warrior News
Westside High School
whs.westside66.org
Westside High
School Mission
Statement
In its quest to be the best high
school in the United States
and achieve unequaled excellence, Westside’s Mission is to
ensure that all students reach
for their potential, compete
successfully in a changing
world, and demonstrate
respect for themselves, others,
and their environment.
Attendance Calls...
24 hour attendance line:
402-343-2626
December 2015 Vol. 3
Dear Westside Families,
With us quickly approaching the end of our first semester, students have settled
into their routine of classes and social activities. The freshman class has gotten off
to a good start, quickly becoming productive members of the high school community. It’s wonderful as you walk through the hallways to see our students engaged
and learning in the classrooms and working with teachers in the IMC’s. As we develop the “whole child” and acknowledge the importance of student engagement, I
want to reinforce that student involvement in school makes for happier and higher
achieving students.
We are very fortunate to have almost seventy sponsored student clubs for students
to join. This means there is something for everyone! Student clubs enhance effective
social skills, and help students become leaders in the school. Our club sponsors,
coaches, and homeroom advisors understand that a comfortable niche for students
is crucial to a positive educational experience. As a result, these faculty members
go out of their way to make students feel like a valued member of a team, group,
or ensemble. Our school climate depends on all our students and staff providing a
supportive, nurturing place for everyone at the table.
Winter Break
As parents, you can help by encouraging your student to become involved in the
life of the school, even as a spectator. This can be a time when your student finds or
explores passions, develops strengths, and puts his/her energy towards an enriching
venture. High school only happens once, and we want to make the experience positive and rewarding.
Sincerely,
Maryanne Ricketts, Principal
Early Release Days
Listed below are the numerous clubs or activities available to our Westside students:
Dec. 21 - Jan. 1
Parent/Advisor Meetings:
January 19 & 20 - 1:10 p.m.
Sponsored Student Activities
Westside Way
Color Guard
Late Start
January 26 - 10:00 a.m.
Late Start
For Grades 9, 10 & 12
(State Writing Assessment for
Grade 11 - 8:00 a.m.)
No School
January 18
February 11, 12, 15
March 15
(Grades 9, 10 & 12)
(Grade 11 taking ACT)
Band
Class Officers
Welcome to Westside Newspaper
Mu Alpha Theta
FBLA
Medical
Circle of Friends
Warrior Football Club Intramurals
Debate
Cheerleaders
Amateur Radio Club
Fashion Club
Outdoor Ed.
Varsity Dance
Key Club
Interactive Games
Future Problem Solving SAB
Competitive Athletics Speech
Step Team
NHS
Westside Rugby Football Club
Warriors Assisting the Community National Art Honor Society
Louder than a Bomb Club
Project Unify
Club R.I.S.E.
Robotics
BETA Club
Cycling Club
DECA
Vocal Music
French Club
German Club
Italian Club
Renaissance Reenactors Magazine
Math Club Anime Club
Quiz Bowl
Orchestra
Skills USA
Red Shield
Congress Club
Quill & Scroll
GSA
Spanish Club
Jr. Classical League
Mock Trial
Science, Eng & Technology
International Thespian Society
Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica
Student Mentoring Program
Service Learning Council
Non-Sponsored Activities
Westside Lacrosse
Writers Coop
Campus Life
Ultimate Frisbee Club
Information on Activities is available in the Deans’ Office.
Academic Information
Semester Test Schedule
The last two days of the semester, Thursday and Friday, December 17 and 18, will be final examination days. Semester exams will be given to all students. Unit, quarterly or semester exams will be given to all ninth graders. All test
periods will be one hour in length.
Ninth grade English tests will be given prior to the 17 and 18 so that ninth graders will not be overburdened on
those two days. The test schedule will be as follows for both days:
Thursday, December 17 Friday, December 18
8:00 - 8:15 Homeroom
8:00 - 8:15 Homeroom
8:20 - 9:20 Period 1
8:20 - 9:20 Period 6
9:25 - 10:25 Period 2
9:25 - 10:25 Period 7
10:30 - 11:30 Period 3
10:30 - 11:30 Period 8
11:30 -12:30
**Lunch11:30 - 12:30
**Lunch
12:35 - 1:35 Period 4
12:35 - 1:35 Period 9
1:40 - 2:40 Period 5
1:40 - 2:40 Period 10
* 5-minute passing time between periods
** Lunch will be served in the cafeteria 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Cafe Express will also be open for limited hours.
Both locations will feature “Grab & Go Favorites”. The week prior, check the district website for details and menu
choices.
Students will not be required to stay at school during periods when they do not have tests. However, if they wish to
stay or have to stay because of inclement weather, they will be required to be in an IMC which will be a quiet study
area. NOTE: Parents of ninth graders who want their teenager to stay on campus during periods when they do not
have tests may call 402-343-2600 and make this request prior to Thursday, December 3. We will then schedule the
student into a supervised area.
NOTE: This will be a very important time for your student and we strongly encourage his/her attendance through
the Friday test periods. Vacations should be scheduled after the 18th if at all possible. It will be difficult to arrange
tests in advance for students; legitimate conflicts will exist that necessitate a few students being absent. In those
instances where students must leave early we ask that students bring a note from a parent or guardian stating the
date and reason for the absence. This note must be taken to your student’s dean for administrator approval. You are
encouraged to do this as soon as possible, but no later than Thursday, December 3. All students absent on test days
must make up work to receive credit.
Parent/Advisor Meetings
Registration conferences for grades 9-11 will be conducted on January 19 & 20 with homeroom advisors, students
and parents. Students will be dismissed at 1:10 p.m. both days to accommodate the meetings. These meetings are
important as students begin the registration process for the 2016-2017 school year. The Course Handbook is given
to students in homeroom one week prior to the meetings. Be sure to look through it before your conference. Homeroom advisors will contact parents to set up a time for you to meet.
National Honor Society
Westside’s Honor Society is a chapter of the national organization and is bound by its rules and
regulations. Juniors and seniors who have a mark point average of 6.40, have passed the reading
competency and Future Plan and have no incompletes or failures on their records are eligible
for induction into the Society. In addition, Juniors must have completed 60 hours and Seniors
must have completed 80 hours of Service Learning. These requirements must be completed by
January 22, 2016. No exceptions will be made for this deadline.
Selection further depends on consideration of character, leadership and service. Staff members
are given National Honor Society definitions of character and leadership and are asked to give
specific evidence of how any eligible student has not demonstrated these qualities. Students
are asked to complete a Student Activity/Service Information Form and complete an essay on
leadership. School activities/service and community service are recorded by the student and rated by the appropriate sponsor. A total of ten points on this form is required for induction. Seven of the ten points must come from
activities at Westside High School. A faculty committee then reviews each student’s qualifications and recommends
accordingly.
The induction ceremony is held on Monday, April 18, 2016.
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From the Counselor’s Office
Guidance News
As the end of first semester approaches, students tend to become stressed and anxious while attempting to finish projects, improve grades, and prepare for final exams, in addition to dealing with holiday concerns. Here are a
few suggestions to help your student relax and do his/her best to finish the semester on a positive note. Assist your
student in breaking down larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks, and prioritize what assignments
or projects need to be completed first. Suggest that they review notes frequently and study for the test over multiple
days rather than “cramming” the night before the test. During independent study mods, meet with teachers for individual help or form a study group with friends to discuss content and prepare for the test. As always, it is important
for adolescents to eat right, get eight hours of sleep a night, and have a little down time to recharge.
Seniors should be in the midst of completing college, as well as, scholarship applications in preparation to enter
college in the fall of 2016. It is very important to pay close attention to the upcoming college application deadlines,
which are toward the end of December or beginning of January. Check the guidance Google calendar on the Westside website. It is highly recommended that students turn in application materials and request transcripts at least
two weeks in advance of the deadlines. In addition, it will be necessary to plan ahead due to the limited hours the
Guidance Office will be open over Winter Break. To assist with this, the Guidance office will be open 5-8 p.m. on
Tuesday, December 16.
Since the financial aspect of college is a topic of interest for most parents, Vicki Londer and Cindy Kostek, college
counselors, have scheduled a Financial Aid Night on Thursday, January 7 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in room 220. All
interested parents are welcome to attend. A financial aid representative from Education Quest will present a FAFSA
(Federal Application for Student Aid) completion workshop.
Juniors are wrapping up Junior Group Guidance, a course that focuses primarily on post high school planning. As a
part of Guidance class, students will finish their Future Plan Competency. The future plan indicates a student’s plan
for the two to four years after he or she graduates from high school, the rationale for this plan, and the steps needed
in order to achieve that goal. The intent of this competency is to help students begin the transition from high school
and initiate a discussion with their parents/guardians on post high school plans. We will host a college planning
night for juniors on December 1st, more information to come.
Sophomores should take a few minutes to evaluate their progress in relation to graduation requirements. At this
time, they should be working to complete their 80 hours of service learning and to earn credits by passing their
classes. Now is also the time to verify that they have passed the Reading Competency.
Freshmen have finished group guidance and should be preparing for final exams by reviewing notes every night
rather than “cramming” at the last minute. The new
semester starting in January will bring a new schedule and most likely different teachers. This will give
the freshman, as well as upper classmen, a fresh start
and the opportunity to benefit from different teaching and learning styles.
Attention Class of 2020 – Future Westside 9th
graders and parents are strongly encouraged to
attend orientation on Monday, January 25 from
6:00-8:00 p.m. We will host an Open House where
families can attend a presentation on modular
scheduling, graduation requirements, and educational planning. In addition, staff from a variety of
departments will be available to discuss the class
options available and answer questions. There will
also be tours of the building. If you have questions,
please contact the Guidance Office at 402-3432616.
College Counselor Cindy Kostek is teaching a junior guidance
large group on college planning.
Page 3
Guidance Information
College Visits on WHS campus?
If a student has listed a particular college in Naviance as a potential school, an email will be sent to the student to let
him or her know when the college will be visiting Westside. Additionally, Dr. Londer and Mrs. Kostek send out an
electronic College Counseling email bimonthly to juniors and seniors. All college representatives meet with students
from all grade levels in the Guidance IMC. Students who will miss class need to get permission from the teacher
before meeting with a college representative.
College Possible
Westside entered into a partnership with College Possible last year. College
Possible is a non profit organization that makes college admission and success possible for low income students through an intensive curriculum of
coaching and support. They provide ACT test preparation, college application assistance, financial aid counseling, support in transition to college and
degree completion. The College Possible program is working with juniors
and seniors. If you or your student would like more information, please go to
[email protected].
Why Take Advanced Placement Classes?
Read On....
Elizabeth Dagle and
Claire Teichman from
College Possible.
With our upcoming registration conferences in January, we encourage all parents and students to consider including an Advanced Placement (AP) course to the student’s course selection for the next school year. Why participate
in AP? First, students taking an AP class get a head start on college level work by learning a subject in greater depth,
sharpening their reasoning skills, and developing study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work at the
college level. Second, studies find that students who complete AP courses perform better in college than students
who do not challenge themselves with these courses. Third, when students take AP classes, it helps them stand out
in the college admission process. It shows students’ willingness to push themselves and their commitment towards
academic excellence. Fourth, by taking AP classes and exams, students may gain advanced standing and/or credit in
college - even before entering college! This can save time and money in the long run.
Our Advanced Placement classes provide wonderful opportunities for all Westside students. It’s something that
should be considered!
Assistance League ACT Preparation Classes
Each year the Assistance League of Omaha provides excellent low cost preparation classes for the ACT. Though these
classes are open to all high school students, they are taught at Westside. Students planning to take the December
ACT should consider this class:
ACT Test Date: Saturday, December 12
Option 1:
ACT Review Class: Thu., Dec. 10, 5:30- 9:30 p.m.
ACT Review Class Cost: $30
Registration materials are available online at: www.omaha.assistanceleague.org or in the Guidance Center. Students
must be pre-registered with the Assistance League. All questions concerning the ACT Prep Classes should be directed to the Assistance League at 402-342-4288.
Page 4
A Word About Scholarships
Guidance Information
If you’ve read some of the material on the web about getting scholarships, then you’d believe that there is some sort
of “secret” or “method” to finding scholarships. The simple truth of the matter is that there is not a secret or method.
There are, however, a number of things that both parents and students can do to help find scholarships.
Scholarships are awarded for a number of different reasons, primarily in these categories:
1) Merit based - Given for academic performance (grades, test scores)
2) Need-Based - Given based on financial need of your family
3)Athletic
4) Religious Affiliation
5) Specific majors/career areas
6) National/family heritage
7) Community Service
Merit and need-based comprise the two largest categories of scholarships students tend to receive.
Where do students find these scholarships? Scholarships can come from a number of different sources. The largest
source of scholarships students receive is from the colleges. If you take the time to investigate any financial aid or
scholarships from any college or university, you will find a list of most of the scholarships they award, dollar amounts
for those scholarships, and deadlines. To apply for most scholarships, all students need to do is simply complete the
application for admission.
Beyond college sources, there are a number of scholarship databases that our guidance department endorses and
encourages students and parents to utilize. One of these databases is www.fastweb.com. Fastweb is a free national
scholarship database which has millions of different scholarships listed. The convenient feature of Fastweb is that
when a student registers for Fastweb that he/she will start receiving almost weekly updates on scholarships for which
he or she is eligible. Students from any grade level are encouraged to use Fastweb. The second outside database is
www.scholarshipquest.org. Scholarshipquest, which is part of Educationquest, is a database primarily for Nebraska
colleges, although not exclusively. Finally, we encourage students to use our scholarship page:
https://sites.google.com/a/westside66.net/whs-scholarship-page/
Some final tips for students and parents about finding scholarships that were recently shared with students in Junior
Group Guidance Class:
1) Apply for as many as possible
2) Watch the deadlines
3) Check frequently for updates
4) Lots of little $$$ add up to big $$$
5) Always, always, always keep looking
How do students find scholarships? First, you’ve got to start looking. Second, apply for as many scholarships as you
can, even if you think you may not get them. Don’t be scared off by little scholarships. Enough of those can add up
to a lot of money. Next, keep looking. Finding scholarships is a process and not simply a one-time effort. Finally,
make sure that you follow deadlines. If you adhere to these tips, you should be successful in tracking down those
scholarship dollars. Happy hunting!
Assessment Test/Late Start Schedule 2015-16
The following is the schedule for State Assessment testing:
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
8:00 a.m.
Writing Assessment (11th Grade)
10:00 a.m.
Late Start (9th, 10th & 12th Grade)
Thursday, March 24, 2016
8:00 a.m.
Math Assessment (11th Grade)
10:00 a.m.
Late Start (9th, 10th & 12th Grade)
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
8:00 a.m.
Reading Assessment (11th Grade)
10:00 a.m.
Late Start (9th, 10th & 12th Grade)
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
8:00 a.m.
Science Assessment (11th Grade)
10:00 a.m.
Late Start (9th, 10th & 12th Grade)
The Career Center test dates are the same as the main campus.
Writing - Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Math - Thursday, March 24, 2016
Reading - Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Science - Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Page 5
CAPS Corner
During the first semester, the students in the CAPS program have been engaged in a variety of opportunities that
included: (1) a team building field trip to North Star; (2) career exploration field trips to Lozier, Gallup, and UNO
Peter Kiewit Institute; (3) project-based learning such as “Air B-n-B Hotels” and website development for a small
business owner; (4) development of a professional profile; and (5) dual enrollment with Nebraska Methodist College
to become certified as a nursing assistant. Below is a brief highlight of just a few of the activities that have happened
within the three CAPS strands.
STEM: STEM 1 students designed constant-velocity toy cars out of acrylic and
VEX Robotics Motors. As part of the project, students determined the velocity of their vehicles using LoggerPro, an application that pairs motion detectors
with a laptop. Students wrote and tested mathematical models to predict where
and when their car would collide with another teams’ car. The project was a
success as one student commented, “I can’t believe I figured this all out on my
own.” Meanwhile, STEM 2 students created bridge truss designs using AutoCAD software, which where then built out of balsa wood. These trusses will be
entered into PKI’s Truss Busting Competition that will be held in February.
Health Sciences: Students have visited and learned about a wide variety of
healthcare opportunities that include Children’s Hospital, Ted E. Bear Hollow,
Brighton Gardens, Think Whole Person Health Care, UNMC, and Home Instead Senior Care. Additionally, the CNA students started their clinical experience in November and will sit for their state certification test in mid-December. In order to engage more students,
CAPS HS will host two “Lunch and Learns” in the Little Theater to share information about (1) the opportunities
and competitions available through HOSA, an organization for future health professionals; and (2) working with
babies, families, and healthcare providers in the NICU setting.
Emerging Tech: Students have been working on a variety of authentic projects for clients in the community as well
as an technology enrichment cluster series with Westgate Elementary. Additionally, the students have visited Gallup, Agape Red, Mutual of Omaha, and observed Straight Shot Demo Day. The students also worked on developing their professional profile, career readiness skills, and
leadership style from Dr. McCann and other industry
professionals such as CoSentry.
Remember: The Westside CAPS program is for all students. To participate in the CAPS program, students must
complete an application, which can be accessed through
the Westside High School Webpage. Simply, click on the
CAPS tab located on the left side of the website or contact
Dr. Melissa Hansen at (402) 343-2619 and/or via email at
[email protected].
Page 6
Service Learning Update
1st Semester Deadline: All service hours completed since September 4 are due by Friday, December 4. This is the
last day to submit service learning hours to ensure they will be in the computer for the semester report cards. This
deadline is for ALL hours, including ongoing service projects. If there are questions after you receive the grade report, please email [email protected]. We need to have deadlines so that we can call and verify the hours at
the agency. Some agencies do not keep volunteer records for an extensive amount of time and without deadlines, we
would be unable to verify hours. We do not want students to lose credit due to the inability to verify hours.
PowerSchool: Students and Parents may look up total service learning hours on PowerSchool anytime. Please note
that service hours are updated once a week on PowerSchool—every Monday afternoon.
Seniors: This is a crucial time when we continue to evaluate success and go through check-lists to ensure seniors are
on track for graduation. Seniors who have not yet met the requirement will not be eligible for a 2nd semester senior
pass. Please do not wait until the last minute to complete this requirement. Also-remember that no more than 20
hours will count towards the graduation requirement in the following 4 areas:
1) Family and Individual (this is one area/they are not separate)
a. Babysitting and household chores/responsibilities do not count
2) Political
3) Outdoor Education
4) Haunted Houses
Winter Break: We hope that students will take advantage of volunteer opportunities, especially over winter break. As
with anything, the support of parents is crucial. We advise parents to continually encourage your students to meet,
and exceed, the service learning requirement of 80 hours. Be sure to get your Service Learning form from your
homeroom teacher before winter break begins!
Spring FYI: “Honors Night” ~ Freshman who have 100 or more hours will receive a certificate of achievement.
Sophomores who have over 200 hours will also receive a certificate. Freshmen and Sophomores who would like to
receive this honor, should turn in all hours by April 8, 2016.
Common Questions About Service Learning:
Q: If I am planning on serving at the same place several times, do I need to get a form each time I go?
A: Not necessarily. Students may keep track of all hours on a log sheet and then put the grand total on the
form. The only time a new sheet must be obtained is when a deadline comes up. All hours completed at a service
site up until the deadline date must be turned in by the deadline. The student must then get a new form for hours
continued after the deadline date.
Q: Why does my service project have to be pre-approved?
A: To begin, students need to get their service form from their homeroom advisor. The advisor will preapprove the service project to ensure that the service qualifies for credit. Having the form on hand will aid you in
obtaining the appropriate verification signatures from the agency representative. Students should take the service
form with them to the project to receive verification.
For updated opportunities, please go to the Westside High School Website, whs.westside66.org, click on “Curriculum”, then “Service Learning”, then “Opportunities”. This webpage will be updated on a regular basis. Opportunities will no longer be listed in daily announcements.
Page 7
Important Information
Lighthouse Project Change
Due to the impending construction at the Career Center, the Lighthouse Project Presentations have been moved to
ESU #3 at 6949 S 110th St, La Vista, NE 68128, and the dates have changed to April 21-22.
If you are interested in volunteering to be a panel member to listen and judge speeches, please contact Molly HuntSpisak at [email protected] or (402) 343-2646.
Emergency Contact Information
Need to update emergency contacts for your student? Have you changed your email, phone number or address?
Please contact Melissa Thompson at 402-343-2603 or [email protected]. She will update your information in PowerSchool. It is important that we have the correct emergency contact information.
Text Messaging is Now Available
Westside Community Schools can now send text messages to families. At the District level, this will typically be for
snow days and school emergencies, although we may also send texts about activities and events happening in our
building. If you do not already receive text messages, and would like to, please text “yes” to 68453.
STANDARD DATA FEES AND TEXT MESSAGING RATES MAY APPLY.
Winter Break Office Hours
Westside High School will be closed on Dec. 24, 25, & 31 and Jan. 1 during winter break, Dec. 21 - Jan. 1. On
the remaining days, the main office normal hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. but we recommend calling ahead
before stopping by. Most staff members are not available in person during winter break.
The Flu Season Is Here!
Please consider having your student vaccinated against the flu. Here’s why.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Flu symptoms include: Fever and/or feeling
feverish, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (feeling tired).
The flu is extremely contagious. A student with the influenza virus is contagious beginning 1 day before symptoms
develop and up to 5-7 days after becoming sick. Complications of the flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent a person from getting the flu thus avoiding
any possible complications from this virus. Vaccines are available at your Primary
Care Physicians office by appointment, various local pharmacies and the Douglas
County Health Department.
The Center for Disease Control website is: www.cdc.gov.
If you have any questions, you may contact Deb Raven RN, Westside High School
nurse, 402-343-2624. The health assistant is Liz Grandizio.
Check-Out Procedures When Ill
All students who become ill during the school day must check out through the
nurse’s office. If your student contacts you by phone or text, please send them to the nurse’s office. This saves the
parents time. Our nurse will always call the parent for permission to allow a student to leave. If, for any reason, the
nurse cannot be reached, the student may also see a Dean who will call the parent. Students who leave on their own
and then have a parent call afterward will be marked unexcused.
Page 8
For Your Information
Parental Help Needed
Alcohol and Other Drug Use Resources
The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day
are seen as one of the most dangerous times of the year.
Along with the law enforcement agencies of Douglas
and Sarpy Counties, we are encouraging the adults in
our District 66 Community to be especially vigilant in
the effort to prevent underage drinking and access to
alcohol.
~ For Parents ~
School breaks usually mean a lot of free time and socializing with friends. The risk of auto accidents caused by
intoxicated drivers imperils everyone as evidenced by
recent events in Nebraska. This year it doesn’t have to
be that way, for yourself, and for your loved ones. If you
are suspecting an underage drinking party or an adult
providing alcohol to a minor, you are encouraged to call
1-866-MUST-BE-21 (1-866-687-8221).
To be apprised of the trends of substance abuse in the
Omaha/metro area, feel free to contact Susan Schlegel,
LADC at 402-343-2611 or schlegel.susan@westside66.
net
For any other questions or information on having a safe
holiday season, feel free to call Susan Schlegel, Westside’s LADC Prevention Counselor, at 402-343-2611.
Parents help Alanon: every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.,
New Cassel Retirement Center, 900 N. 90 St.
Alanon Information Service: 105 S. 49th St., Ste. G, 24
Hour Hotline, 402-553-5033,
http://www.al-anon.alateen.org
~ For Students ~
Westside in Recovery (Win’R): support group for
students who want to learn how to get...and stay...clean
and sober.
Contact Susan Schlegel, licensed addictions counselor,
for more information, 402-343-2611 or
[email protected]
Westside’s Food Pantry
A number of Westside High School students have put their heads and hands to the task of collecting food and cash
for the district food pantry. The combined efforts of DECA, a group called “Pending Cans”, as well as faculty members, have made it possible to respond to an average 25-30 requests for pantry assistance during the first quarter of
this school year.
Operating out of the Carriage House on the high school grounds, the Westside Community Schools food pantry has
been in existence for many years to provide support to district families in need. Non-perishable foods and household items are kept in stock and cash donations enable the purchase of commodities like milk, bread and eggs. The
contributions of students and staff are of critical importance for maintaining a supply of necessary items. Westside
students are making a significant difference in the lives of community members.
For more information about the Westside food pantry please contact School Social Worker Sarah Fehringer at 402709-8503.
Community Club News
The Westside High School Community Club sponsored the Back-to-School luncheon and the Fall Conference dinner for the teachers and staff. Both were a huge success thanks to parent volunteers and generous donations. Thank
you to all the parents who helped make these terrific.
Additionally, WHSCC is now partnering with Together A Greater Good! Every
time you TAGG your purchase using the free APP at more than 100 local
restaurants and businesses, 5% of the pre-tax amount will be donated to WHS
Community Club. Download the free APP on your smart phone and begin to
TAGG today! Proceeds support your student’s teachers. Visit the link for Community Club on our school website or contact Stacy Simon at [email protected] or 402-399-8757 for more information.
Stay tuned for a Community Club sponsored open house at the new Do Space
Technology Center in January 2016. It will be a free event for all interested
Westside families with demonstrations, tours and explanations about the
center. Everyone is welcome!
WHS Community Club
2015-16 Board
President: Stacy Simon
[email protected]
Advisor: Deb Selby
([email protected])
Secretary: Cathy Haney
Treasurer: Traci Hancock
Page 9
For Your Information
Yearbook Information
Hello, Parents!
The yearbook is an important high school tradition that is your only guarantee to store the year’s memories. Facebook, Twitter and today’s other social media sites might not even exist in a few years.
Yearbooks last forever!
The Shield yearbook is the one way you and your family can guarantee the special high school years are memorialized for your student student’s lifetime and beyond.
Now is a great time to purchase the book if you haven’t done so already. We have new options this year with the addition of two supplemental books. All the information you need is included on our exclusive website listed below.
We are also accepting orders for personal ads. These allow parents and families to include a special message in their
student’s yearbook. All the information is also included on the website below:
www.buytheyearbook.com/westsidehighschool
Parking Help
Extra curricular events sometime become chaotic.
When vehicles park anywhere despite regulations, personal and public safety may be jeopardized. We are especially concerned about illegal parking on 87th Street on
nights when school activities, which draw large crowds,
take place.
Battle of the Bands Competition 2014
Winter Formal/Battle of the Bands
This year’s Winter Formal and Battle of the Bands will
be held at Westside High School on Sunday, January
17, from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. All grade levels
are welcome. Students bringing an outside guest must
purchase tickets in advance. See the Warrior Bulletin for
the rules about bringing an outside guest.
Westside Store
The NEW Westside Store is now open!
Come see the new store and great merchandise. We are
open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on school days and all
home athletic events. The Westside Store is operated by
DECA students along with the Athletic Department.
On December 12 at 4:45 p.m., we will have a grand
opening ceremony. The new name of the store, Colosseum, will be dedicated.
Page 10
The Winter Sports season is just starting, and we will
be hosting a number of events which are likely to draw
large crowds. We want you to join us for these important events. But please do not park on 87th Street or
at Countryside Village Shopping Center during store
hours as your vehicle will be subject to ticketing and
towing. The East, South and West lots will be open for
parking whenever we have a school event. We appreciate
your cooperation in this matter.
Lost And Found
The Lost and Found is open every for parents and students. Lost items are kept in the staff lounge. Any staff
member can let a student in to check for his/her lost
items. You can also check anytime in the Deans’ Office for personal items such as jewelry, cell phones, etc.
No valuable items will be kept in the staff lounge. Any
clothing items left unclaimed after December 18 will be
donated to a charitable organization.
Service Learning Council
For Your Information
This spring the Service Learning Council (SLC) will again be participating in a trip to help Habitat for Humanity
build homes. This trip provides an opportunity for students to learn the value of hard work and service, explore other communities, and impact their world in a very tangible
way. If you would like information about the trip, a short
parent meeting will be taking place on Monday, December 7 at 5:00 p.m. in the WHS Little Theater.
It takes many hands to make a trip like this successful, and we can use your help! To raise money, we will
be holding our 12th Annual SLC Rummage Sale in the
WHS Courtyard next March (more information in the
next edition of the Warrior News).
In preparation for this sale, we are accepting saleable
donations of any sort! Items can be dropped off at Westside High School on the day prior to the Rummage sale
in early March, but you may also contact Jordan Klepfer
at 402-343-2663 or [email protected] to
arrange a pick up of items at any time in the upcoming
months. Let us help you clean out your garage, attic, or
shed for you! All proceeds will be used to help the stuDuring the 2014 Alternative Spring Break Trip to Pendents fund their trip. Thank you for your help.
sacola, FL, students were in one of Project GreenShores’
greenhouses planting native shore grasses that will eventuJordan Klepfer
ally be used to re-establish a stable beach dune environment
SLC Sponsor
that sustains the local ecosystem.
German Exchange Program
From band students playing the school song as our guests entered the school to our WHS students singing the
school song as our guests were going to their gate at the airport, the seventeen students and two teachers from Crimmitschau were very grateful for the wonderful experiences they had during their stay in Omaha. The many interactions our guests had with the WHS faculty and students made this a true school exchange, with both sides learning
about the culture of the other. Thank you to the administration, teachers and students for the strong support.
We would especially like to thank the following students and their families for providing our guests with the opportunity to “live another culture” each day they were here:
Callie Anderson, Lydia James, Sela Szejk, Abby Geise, Zach McCarty, Dan Thrash, Parker Gifford, Haley Petri, Alli
Vester, Isabel Gunderson, Hannah Petri, Ryan Vester, Isabel Henson, Hannah Stodolka, Georgia Wimmer, Madeleine Jacobitz, and Sam Sweeney.
Our Westside students are looking forward to experiencing life at the Julius-Motteler-Gymnasium when they travel
in June 2016.
Warrior News
Westside Community Fitness Center
The Warrior News is the Westside High School Newsletter containing important information for students
and parents. It is published 5 times a year. The first
issue is mailed to each student. The next 4 issues
(October, December, February and April) are emailed
to the parent(s) at the beginning of the month. If you
do not receive the Newsletter, please contact Melissa
Thompson at 402-343-2603 or thompson.melissa@
westside66.net. If you prefer to receive a paper copy,
please contact Melissa to let her know.
Membership to the Fitness Center is available to all
residents of District 66, families of District 66 staff and
parents of District 66 students.
Information regarding the hours and fees associated with
the fitness center can be found on the high school website:
http://whs.westside66.org. Go to Athletics and click the
fitness center. You can also contact Craig Secora @ 402343-2777.
Page 11
For Your Information
Treat Bags For Semester Exams!
• Contain items to help students study for exams: pens,
pencils, snacks, and treats.
• Delivered in homeroom the two days preceding exams.
• Parents may include a personal note to student in sealed
envelope.
• $5
• Fundraiser for Latin Club. To order: send $5 payable to
WHS to Carolyn Harvey, WHS, 8701 Pacific St. 68114
with: student name, homeroom teacher (if known), personal note (if desired).
Snow Day Information
Nebraska Winters can get pretty tough at times. When snow accumulates and the bitter wind blows, Westside Community Schools share with
parents a concern for the safety of their children. Here are a few guidelines
that should help us in working together to assure the safety of students, no
matter how bad the weather.
• If bad weather forces the closing of school, you will receive an automated phone message from the District the night before or the morning of
the closing. We will also ask local radio and television stations to make the
announcement. Information regarding school closings will also be available
on the Information Line, 402-390-2299. Certified and designated staff
should report to buildings unless notified otherwise.
• If schools are open during inclement weather, parents should decide
whether or not their children will attend school.
• When extreme weather conditions develop during school hours, it is our policy not to dismiss students. Many children do not have adult supervision at home during the day and are safer at school.
• Parents may pick their children up during the school day if they feel it is
necessary.
• Because of transportation requirements, there may be times when other
school districts close while District 66 Schools remain open.
• School personnel will remain in the buildings as long as children are
present.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION
Page 12
Student Messages/
Attendance Tips
• Make plans with your student
in advance ~ doctor appointments, after school pick-ups,
bad weather days pick-up, etc.
• Please call attendance hours or
even days in advance to advise
attendance of your student’s
dismissal time if earlier than
normal.
• Text your student the information.
Keep in mind:
• Messages are hand delivered
for emergencies only.
• No paging is allowed during
school hours or after school
until 4:15 p.m.
• Finding a student who is not
in class can be a challenge.
• Students must pick up a pass
from attendance during their
open time before leaving the
building early. They will not be
permitted to leave a class without this pass.
Non-Discrimination
Statement
Westside Community Schools
does not unlawfully discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual
orientation, religion, creed, disability, age, marital status, genetic information, military or
veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under law in
its educational programs and activities or in admission or access
to, or treatment in, hiring and
employment.
For inquiries or concerns regarding students or educational
programs/activities contact: Coordinator of Student Services
(402) 390-2100. For inquiries
or concerns regarding hiring or
employment contact: Assistant
Superintendent for Human Resources (402) 390-2100.
Warrior Merits
Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission
Bennett Hellman (11), Matthew Johnson (12), Bridget Mizener (12), Patrick Nieto (12), and Brett Robinson
(12) have been selected from Westside to serve on the the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission.
International Thespian Society
Congratulations to the following students who have been inducted into the International Thespian Society, the
honor society for secondary school theatre students. Each Thespian inductee has completed over one hundred hours
of excellent work in theatre arts and related disciplines.
Inducted for the 2014-15 school year are seniors Amy Conaway, Natalie Day, Madison Hoy, Emma Kemp, Adia
Matousek, and Savana Nawojski. 2015 graduates inducted are Chloe Fulbright, Madeline Hurley, Elisa Kroeger,
Kacey Rose, Jules Ross, Emma Sherman, Chandler Buschnell, Connor O’Doherty, and Max Tierney.
Jeremy Stoll is the Drama Instructor.
Debate Tournament Results
Lilli Marvin (11), Luke Gibbons (11), Kenhan Tekla (11), Hannah Heim (9), and Chloe Fowler (9) competed
in the Lincoln Southwest Debate Tournament in November.
Please congratulate Lilli and Luke for finishing 5th in Varsity Public Forum. They made it to quarterfinals. Lilli was
one point away from earning a speaker award.
Mikayla Baker is the Debate Coach.
All State Musicians
Congratulations to these Westside students who were selected to the 2015 NMEA All-State music ensembles:
Orchestra - Emily Hammans (11) and Beatrice Hammel (10); Concert Band - Ava Bowman (11), Elley Lawson
(10), and Jill Tucker (10); Jazz Band - Simon Bessmer (11), Grace Calderon (10), Tyler Douglass (11), Kathrine Hamann (10), and Zach McCarty; Chorus - Brenden Avery (11), Ben Battafarano (12), Reilly Christensen
(12), Olivia Coulter (12), Tyler Gregurich (12), Kate Hammitt (11), Isaac Henson (12), Jacob Hershiser (12),
Lillian Hoy (10), Thomas Schnell (11), Ethan Stark (12), Jacob Thomas (12), Ben Volberding (12), Nathan
Wallace (11), Zane Watanabe (11) Ian Wear (11) and Phoebe Yueill (11).
Music Instructors are: Vocal - Doran Johnson and Kyle Avery, Band - James Kordik and Tim Rischling and Orchestra - Lanny Stutheit.
Metro Conference All-Academic Awards
Congratulations to these Westside Cross Country Runners who earned the Metro Conference All-Academic Award
at the Metro Cross Country meet in October: Phoebe Placzek (12), Mariah Tessin (12), Kaya Miller (11), and
Megan Algya (11).
Theresa Gosnell is the Girls Cross Country coach.
Girls Golf Team Qualifies for State
Congratulations to Claire Nelson (12), Lindsay McCormick (12), Alexis Rose (10), Julia Nelson (10) and Lili
Fogland (9) for placing 2nd at Districts and qualified for the State Tournament. Alexis was also named second team
all Metro and Claire received Honorable Mention.
Cycling Team
Congratulations to the Westside Cycling Team for winning a second state championship in a row. Individual winners were Jonas Turman (10) - fifth place boys, Elise Choquette (9) - first place girls, Ella Vraspir (9) - 4th place
girls, and Grace Porter (12) - 5th place girls. More than 25 cyclists from Westside participated throughout the
course of the season to make another state championship possible.
Nathan Moseley and Nick Joslin are advisors for the Cycling team.
Staff
Doug Krecklow was inducted to the Nebraska Sports Hall of Fame on Sunday, Oct. 4. Doug is a retired teacher and
the current swim coach. This is a great honor for Coach and Westside High School.
To submit information for future Warrior Merits, contact Mrs. Trudi Nolin at 402-343-2787 or email Mrs. Nolin at
[email protected].
Page 13
WHS Phone List
2626ATTENDANCE
2780 AVARD, Rick
2805 AVERY, Kyle
2692 BABER, Ben
2669 BAHL, Deanna
2649 BAKER, Mikayla
2801 BATT, Lacey
2707 BELONGIA, Duane
2739 BERGMAN, Angela
2647 BLACK, Elizabeth
2686 BLESSEN, Annelise
2672 BLEVINS, Shawn
2703 BOMBAC, John
2782 BOYD, Marla
2753 BRAMBLETT, Linda
2749 BRAMLEY, Nathan
2814 BRAWNER, Jana
2625 BREDENKAMP, Aaron
2746 BRIAN, John
2750 BROUSEK, Bob
2667 BROWN, Alyssa
8993 BULIN, Dave (408)
2740 BUSINESS IMC
2782 BUSINESS OFFICE
2658 BYWATER, David
3328 CAFE EXPRESS
2724 CAFFEY, Patrick
2771 CAMPBELL, Shawn
2601 CAMPISI-BALLUE, Karen
3323 CANNON, Craig
2628 CARLSON, Jodi
2662 CASEY, Jennifer
2767 CLAUS, Katie
2728 CODINA, Erika
2668 CRNKOVICH, Todd
2795 CROSS, Paul
2614 CUNNINGHAM, Lauri
2740 DAVIS, Amy
2764 DAVIS, Christy
2622 DEANS’ OFFICE
2607 DE LA CRUZ, Kim
2671 DITTRICK, Liz
2615 DONDLINGER, Ted
2691 DONOHO, Teri
2704 DRECKMAN, Leah
2717 DUNN, Kevin
2656 EASTON, Andrew
2730 EHLERS, Tobin
2706 ENG. TECH IMC
2640 ENGLISH IMC
2857 ESCRITT, Elizabeth
2741 EYMANN, Kim
2648 FAST, Kara
2633 FAUSS, Jessica
2716 FAUSS, Mike
2608 FAX (WHS)
1263 FEEZELL, Katie (960)
2613 FEHRINGER, Sarah
2744 FEY, Derek
8788 FEY, Jim (408)
2697 FICK, Karl
2762 FILIPI, Krista
2777 FITNESS CENTER
2752 FJELL, Adam
2721 FOSTER, Tyler
2667 FRENCH, Jolene
2858 FRIETAG, Amanda
2632 FROENDT, Brett
2729 FRYDA, Mike
Page 14
2758 GEIGER, Rebecca
2710 GIRMUS, Laurie
2769 GOSNELL, Theresa
2725 GRADOVILLE, Kim
2624 GRANDIZIO, Liz
2606 GRECO, Bob
2712 GRINVALDS, Jeff
2773 GROGAN, Scott
2610/2616 GUIDANCE
2807 HABERMAN, Justin
2760 HAMILTON, Lori
2637 HARMON, Katie
2675 HARVEY, Carolyn
2748 HAUPTMAN, Paul
2681 HEITMANN, Stephanie
3790 HENION, Janet
2618 HENNINGSEN, Kirk
2620 HENSON, Theresa
2690 HINDE, Michelle
2678 HODGSON, Matt
2696 HOGAN, Kristen
2683 HOOVER, Pam
2653 HOUGH, Emily
2711 HUELLE, Lisa
2661 INMON, Melissa
2622 JANK, Jamie
2655 JERNIGAN, Mike
2793 JOHNSON, Doran
2172 JOHNSON-Romero, Lynn
2688 JOSLIN, Nick
2650 JOURNALISM ROOM
2772 JURGENS, Stephanie
2605 KERKMAN, Tom
3323 KITCHEN
2789 KIZER, Angie
2663 KLEPFER, Jordan
2638 KLEPPINGER, Jeanette
2740 KNUST, Kathy
2635 KOBZA, Sydney
2731 KOCH, Kevin
5127 KOEHLER, Julie (506)
2792 KORDIK, Jim
2775 KOSTEK, Cindy
2627 LANGSTON, Sharon
2806 LECUONA, Sally
2759 LONDER, Vicki
8989 LONG, Jeremy (408)
2673 LONGE, Emily
2665 LOSEN, Mary Jo
2808 LUMPKIN, Sherisa
2702 LUNSFORD, Erin
2747 LUPO, Katherine
2602 MACINNES, Cathy
2600 MAIN OFFICE
2756 MARSHALL, Susan
2690 MATH IMC
2616 MCCABE, Jeanne
2761 MCKEEVER, Rick
2693 MCMAHON, Shaun
2710 MEDIA IMC
2823 MEAD, Danion
2719 MENDICK, Marilynn
2634 METZLER, Brad
2790 MILLER, Anne
2645 MOSELEY, Nathan
2694 MOSIER, Angela
2790 MUSIC OFFICE
2736 NEMECEK, Brian
2788 NOLETTE, Mike
2787 NOLIN, Trudi
2624NURSE
2727 OLVERA, Maria
2630 PACKARD, Sharon
2676 PASKACH, Jennifer
2700 PEITZMEIER, Beth
2713 PERAZA, Nelson
2685 PERCIVAL, Sarah
7872 POKORNY, Mark (689)
2770POOL
2733 POWERS, Benjamin
2737 PREISTER, Jon
2754 PUEPPKA, Stephanie
2714 RASGORSHEK, Matt
2705 RATLIFF, Gregg
2689 RAU, Linda
2624 RAVEN, Deb
2718 RHODES, Jordan
2617 RICKETTS, Maryanne
2791 RISCHLING, Tim
8985 RODGERS, Monty(408)
2684 ROTH, Melissa
2765 RYAN, Kevin
2695 SALERNO, Gary
2708 SANCHEZ, Michael
2802 SAYRE, Eric
2804 SCHAU, Sarah
2636 SCHERGIN, Diana
2600 SCHIEBER, Connie
2677 SCHJODT, Chelsea
2611 SCHLEGEL, Susan
2629 SCHMECKPEPER, Chad
2723 SCOTT, Lindsay
2763 SEALS, Otis
2777 SECORA, Craig
2774 SHEPHERD, Sally
2810 SHIELDS, Julie
2766 SHYKEN, Liat
2751 SIMONS, Jim
2740 SOCIAL STUDIES IMC
2701 SOSALLA, Rebecca
2706 SOSNOWSKI, Adria
2646 SPISAK, Molly
2798 STEHLY, Sue
2654 STEJSKAL, Ryan
2779 STEVENS, Brian
2641 STOLL, Jeremy
2734 STRASIL-LARSON, Erin
2797 STUCKY, Judy
2742 STUDTS, Amy
2794 STUTHEIT, Lanny
2745 SWANSON, Amanda
2682 SZEJK, Brandy
2819 TECHNOLOGY
2603 THOMPSON, Melissa
2699 TIGANI, Jon
2666 TIGANI, Michaela
2612 TONER, Kathy
2715 TURNER, Carrie
2610 VACINEK, Susan
2604 WAGNER, Jeff
2651 WEGENER, Denise
2679 WELCH, Megan
2778 WEST, Krystal
2783 WESTSIDE STORE
2657 WEYLER, Charlotte
2764 WILLIAMS, Melissa
2757 WILSON, Kari
2640 WORLD LANG. IMC
2732 ZABEL, Brenda
2650 ZEGELIS, Jerred
2640 ZUERLEIN, Tiffany
All phone numbers for the high
school are area code “402” and
begin with the prefix “343”
unless otherwise noted by a
different number in parenthesis
after the staff name.
Staff e-mail addresses consist of
their: lastname.fullfirstname@
westside66.net. For example,
if someone goes by the name
Mike, their full first name may
be Michael. It’s best to use the email link through PowerSchool
or the HS website.
Other helpful numbers:
ABC BUILDING
402-390-2100
CAREER CENTER
402-390-8214
CHIEF SCHOOL BUS
402-392-2144
LIFETOUCH (pictures)
402-498-0206
MIDDLE SCHOOL
402-390-6464
WILLSIE (graduation)
402-699-1471
POST PROM 2016
Attention All Junior and Senior Parents
Date:
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Time:
After Prom from Midnight to 3 a.m.
Where:
The Mark Bowling and Entertainment
20902 Cumberland Rd Elkhorn, NE 68022
(402) 289-4614
Chairs:
Charlie and Julie Liakos
J - 402-490-8428 ~ [email protected]
C - 402-689-5547 ~ [email protected]
Post Prom is a fun, safe and memorable time for the Juniors and Seniors as they celebrate their school year at Westside High School. The Mark offers bowling, laser tag, arcade games, go-karts and food. The evening includes
a performance by hypnotist and WHS grad, Matt Markey.
There are a variety of opportunities for parents to become involved. Please consider offering a monetary donation
and/or your time. Monetary donations will help keep ticket prices down, allowing all students to attend.
Checks can be made out to: WHS Post Prom
You can help by filling out and returning this volunteer form and/or your donation to:
Julie Liakos
1303 South 91 Ave.
Omaha, NE 68124
POST PROM VOLUNTEER FORM
Parent/Guardian Name_______________________________________________________
Student Name______________________________________
Address_____________________________________________________Zip__________
Phone_________________________
E-Mail______________________________________________________
THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS A SUCCESSFUL EVENT!
Westside Community Schools
Westside High School
8701 Pacific St.
Omaha, NE 68114
NON-PROFIT
ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 861
OMAHA, NE
68114
WHS Upcoming Events
12/1
6:30-8:30 p.m.
12/3-4
10:30-1:00 p.m.
12/4
12/5
7:30 a.m.
12/10
5:30-9:30 p.m.
12/12
8:00 a.m.
12/17-18
12/18
12/21-1/1
1/4
1/7
6:30-8:30 p.m.
1/8
1/17
7:00-10:00 p.m.
1/18
1/19-20 1:10 p.m.
1/25
6:30- 8:30 p.m.
1/26
8:00-10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
1/28-29 10:30-1:00 p.m.
2/4
6:30-9:30 p.m.
2/6
8:00 a.m.
2/9 & 10 5:00-9:00 p.m.
2/11
2/12
2/15
2/19
10:30-1:00 p.m.
3/3
9:00-10:00 a.m.
3/5
7:30 a.m.
3/15
8:00 a.m.
3/15
3/17
8:00 a.m.
3/17-18, 22 10:30-1:00
3/24
8:00-10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
3/28-4/1
Junior College Planning Night - Room 220
Willsie Cap/Gown/Graduation Sales
Service Learning Deadline - 1st Semester
SAT
ACT Review
ACT
Semester Exams
End of Semester
Winter Break
School Resumes
College Financial Aid Night
Report Cards Mailed Home - Sem. 1
Winter Formal/Battle of the Bands @ WHS
No School - Martin Luther King Day (Staff Development Day)
Early Dismissal - Parent/Advisor Meetings
8th Grade Orientation - Auditorium
State Writing Assessments - Grade 11
Late Start, Grades 9, 10 & 12
Willsie Cap/Gown/Graduation Sales
ACT Review
ACT Test
Conferences
No School - Intersession
No School
No School - President’s Day (Staff Development Day)
Willsie Cap/Gown/Graduation Sales
Principal’s Parent Coffee
SAT
ACT - All Juniors
No School - Grades 9-10-12
Report Cards Distributed in Homeroom
Willsie Cap/Gown/Graduation Sales
State Math Assessments - Grade 11
Late Start, Grades 9, 10, & 12
Spring Break