A Special Note about Homecoming Week | |
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As we enter into the week of Homecoming 2022, it’s a good moment to address some of the behavioral expectations into the week.
Homecoming week in High School can be a great community building experience for all involved. School spirit can be built in a positive way, multiple activities can get positive exposure, and fond high school memories can be shared by community members.
However, a pattern of risky and dangerous behavior has been experienced at Monona Grove through past homecoming weeks. This behavior usually stems between class rivalries, primarily between juniors and seniors. As the week progresses, these risky & dangerous behaviors can escalate. This includes, but is not limited to, students piling into vehicles and driving in a rushed state, fleeing houses that have been toilet papered or worse in some instances.
Please take a few moments to address these behaviors with you students as we enter Homecoming Week 2022. This should be a time to celebrate the MG community. Actions should demonstrate a desire to create unity amongst each other, and the week should be about coming together. We look forward to a great Homecoming Week Silver Eagles!
Dress Up Days:
Monday - tie-dye
Tuesday - bikers vs. surfers
Wednesday - class color (seniors black, juniors red, sophomores green, freshmen blue)
Thursday - dress like your favorite movie star
Friday- MG spirit
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Dear Monona Grove families,
Now that the school year has started, we’d like to provide some reminders and updates regarding school nutrition.
What are the high school meal prices for 2022-23?
Breakfast: $1.75
Breakfast (reduced): free
Lunch: $3.75
Lunch (reduced): $0.40
Where to find menus
Meal menus are found on the high school website under "Resources".
How to apply for free / reduced-price meals
Eligibility for free and reduced-price meals is based on household size and income level or participation in other programs (FoodShare, W-2 Cash Benefits, Food Distribution on Indian Reservations, some Medicaid programs).
Applications for free or reduced-price meals are available:
- Online via the Infinite Campus parent portal
Once logged in, click on “More,” then “Meal Benefits.” Click the link to start an application
Or, view step-by-step instructions
Link to application to print is under “Resources and Forms”
- In-person at any school or the main District office
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Requesting a copy be e-mailed to you by contacting school.nutrition@mgschools.net
- Requesting a copy be mailed to you by calling Terri O’Neil at 608-316-1894
How to check balances, add money, or set reminders and/or recurring payments
Families can check balances, add money, set reminders and set up recurring payments all through Infinite Campus.
Notifications for School Nutrition & Student Balances
On Monday, September 26th our method of notifying families of low or negative school nutrition balances changed. Families were previously notified via phone calls. In an effort to minimize the number of phone calls, we moved to sending email notifications through Infinite Campus when an account has a low or negative balance.
Sincerely,
Maggie Sanna
School Nutrition Director
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This is Monona Grove's first year hosting an AmeriCorps Farm to School Program! Click the Farm to School (F2S) Program tab on the MG School Nutrition Page to learn more about F2S and to see our monthly newsletter. Check out the Harvest of the Month and find out why our students should plan on school lunch Thursdays in October!
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The phone number for attendance is 608-316-1393. If you call the main office number, you do not have the option to "press 1 for attendance", so please add the attendance number to your phonebook.
Thank you in advance to all of our parents for sending your students into school after medical/dental appointments with doctor's notes! Please note that doctor's notes are required in order for students to participate in sports and extra curricular activities.
An Anticipated Absence Form is required for all absences of 3+ days. It must be signed by each teacher plus a parent/guardian and then turned in to the attendance office at least 3 days prior to the anticipated absence. The form can be picked up from the attendance office.
Students cannot call themselves out of school unless they are 18 and have completed an 18 year old adult form. These are available for pick up in the Attendance Office.
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News from the Athletic Department | |
Winter Sports Registration
Registration for winter sports is just around the corner! The registration process is new this year, but will still be completed through Infinite Campus, in both the Parent Portal and the Student Portal. Please keep an eye on your Infinite Campus messages in the next couple of weeks, for instructions on how to register.
For the 2022-23 school year, the WIAA requires athletes to have had a physical on/after April 1, 2021. If your athlete needs a physical, please be sure to get that scheduled prior to the start of their sport season. Physical forms can be scanned and emailed to joseph.schneider@mgschools.net, dropped off at the MGHS Main Office, or mailed to MGHS.
WIAA/Badger Conference
On September 21, the 16 schools of the Badger Conference gathered together with some student leaders from each school, to discuss current topics revolving around sportsmanship. The “Badger Conference Sportsmanship Summit” is held every other year as an effort to help enhance the athletic experience of all, and help guide student section behavior. The day was filled with discussion topics revolving around social media, chants & cheers, being positive to one another, current trends in athletics, and others. The work continues throughout the school year.
As many are aware, the WIAA is in dire need of licensed officials as the total number of registered officials has declined by 39% since 2010 and is down by 1,400 in just the past year. That number goes up to over 3,000 less officials since the 2018-2019 school year. Adult behavior and poor sportsmanship is considered one of the main factors in this reduction. In the spring of 2021, the WIAA passed a ban for fans who are removed from an athletic contest for one additional game due to “flagrant harassment or unsporting conduct.” Lets all do our part, represent MG well, and provide a positive environment for our athletes, coaches, spectators, and officials!
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Work Permit Requirements
Work permits are required for anyone under the age of 16. To obtain a work permit, the minor must bring the following to the MGHS or GDS main office:
- employer letter
- parent/guardian letter
- birth certificate, passport or WI license
- social security card
- $10
Please visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website for more information.
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News from Student Services
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PSAT/NMSQT
Registration for the PSAT/NMSQT is closed. For those that are registered, a reminder that the PSAT/NMSQT will be held at the MG21 Building in the Gymnasium on Wednesday, October 12 from 7:30 am until approximately 11:45 a.m. Students may begin checking in at 7:40 a.m. at door number 2 of the Gymnasium. Please bring your student ID, #2 pencils, and an approved calculator. When you registered for the PSAT/NMSQT, you received a PSAT /NMSQT Student Guide. Please review this carefully before taking the test. It includes information about the test and materials (i.e. calculators, no cell phones, etc), a sample of a complete exam which you can self score, as well as additional information about the National Merit Scholarship Program for juniors. Additional information and practice can be found at CollegeBoard, Kaplan, and Googling “Free PSAT Practice and Tests”.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) EXAM REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are designed to be introductory, college level courses taught at our high school, by our teachers. They are rigorous courses that offer students the opportunity to prepare themselves for their post high school academic plans. A student enrolled in an AP course has the option to take the AP Exam(s) at the end of the year.
AP Exams are standardized exams designed to measure how well the student mastered the content and skills of a specific AP course. Most AP courses have an end-of-the-year paper-and-pencil exam, but a few courses have different ways to assess what a student learned - for example, AP Art and Design students submit a portfolio of work for scoring. This year all AP 2-D Art and Design and all AP Drawing portfolios will be required to be submitted digitally through the AP Digital Portfolio. Regardless of the exam format, based on a student’s score as well as the college or university a student attends, college credit may be awarded which is another benefit of taking an AP class and exam. The cost for each AP Exam is $97, with an additional Monona Grove administration fee of $5.00 per exam for a total of $102 per AP exam. If there is a financial hardship that would prevent a student from choosing to take an AP exam, please contact Matthew McLaughlin at matthew.mclaughlin@mgschools.net prior to the registration deadline.
AP Exam Registration: Students will need to commit to and pay for any AP Exams that they will take in May by November 3, 2022. More information will be provided directly to students in their AP classes. There will be no late registrations nor will refunds be issued for students who choose to not take any exams after the registration deadline.
SENIOR NEWS
Postsecondary Planning - There are MANY resources for seniors posted on our Postsecondary Planning page; encourage students to review the site for the following pieces of information:
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Senior Presentation: This slideshow contains information for all seniors. Whether you plan to apply to a 4-year or 2-year college, apply to an apprenticeship or job opportunity, or join the military, this is helpful information for all of you.
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Senior Checklist: This is a list of essential steps as you prepare to complete your college applications. It contains helpful tips and links to essential information.
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Senior Application Procedures: This is a two-page document that provides step-by-step instructions for completing applications for 4-year and 2-year colleges (page one) and for completing the Common Application (page two).
Senior Meetings - All seniors are asked to schedule a Senior Meeting with their school counselor. We will discuss your post high school plans and answer your questions. You will also turn in a copy of your senior information form.
Letters of Recommendation - Many students plan to ask a teacher, employer, or coach for a letter of recommendation. Quality recommendations take some time to write! Please remind your student to request their letters at least two weeks - preferably more - prior to their deadline. A senior information form should be provided to anyone asked to write a letter and a copy given to the student's school counselor.
Scholarship Information
Scholarship information can be found on the MG website in the student services tab under "Post-Secondary Planning". Students are responsible for checking this site regularly for updates. Most colleges/universities also offer their own scholarship opportunities for incoming freshmen. Students are highly encouraged to explore these by contacting their future school(s) of choice or by visiting school websites.
Financial Aid Night - this Wednesday, October 5, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Juniors and seniors and their parents/guardians are invited to join us on Wednesday, October 5, at 6:30 pm for Financial Aid Night in the MGHS Auditorium. Kari Temkin, Outreach Coordinator for the UW-Madison Office of Student Financial Aid, will provide families with a general overview of the financial aid process as well as to share information about important financial aid updates. The information applies to all colleges and is NOT specific to UW-Madison. The window to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened on October 1, 2022 - join us to learn the most current financial aid information from an expert in the field!
** Please note that Financial Aid Night is primarily for current seniors and their parents/guardians; juniors and parents/guardians may also be interested in attending for a preview of the financial aid process.
College Goal Wisconsin 2022
Do you have questions on how to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)? The FAFSA is the form a student needs to complete to apply for financial aid, such as grants and loans. Plan to attend College Goal Wisconsin virtually to receive free information and assistance on completing the FAFSA. Register at Register - College Goal Wisconsin to sign up or visit College Goal Wisconsin's website for more information.
GOODMAN COMMUNITY CENTER THANKSGIVING BASKETS - SIGN UP NOW THROUGH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14TH!
The Goodman Community Center Thanksgiving Basket program is now accepting registrations from MGSD families! This program provides a FREE Thanksgiving meal basket to families in need. If you would like to sign up for a Goodman Center Thanksgiving basket, use this ordering link and register by October 14th for early registration! Call or text Maggie Danielson at 608-316-1394 with questions or to register over the phone.
¡El programa Canasta de Acción de Gracias del Centro Comunitario Goodman ahora está aceptando inscripciones de familias de MGSD! Este programa ofrece una canasta de comida GRATUITA para el Día de Acción de Gracias a las familias que tienen necesidades. Si desea inscribirse para una canasta de Acción de Gracias del Goodman Center, use este enlace y inscríbase antes 14 de octubre para la inscripción anticipada. Llame o envíe un mensaje de texto a Maggie Danielson al 608-316-1394 si tiene preguntas o para registrarse por teléfono.
RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
MG Virtual Calming Room
The calming room is a tool for families and students that offers an array of options to help manage emotions in a very stressful and strange time. Check it out!
Grief Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Resources for supporting the kids in your life who are grieving and support for yourself
Helping Your Loved One Who is Suicidal: A Guide for Family and Friends
SAMHSA's new resource guide provides information on understanding suicide, warning signs and action steps to take, and how to prevent future attempts and keep your loved one safe.
Mental Health America of Wisconsin - PRISM Program
A new pilot program to connect LGBTQ+ youth in Wisconsin with trained peer-specialists who can provide mental and emotional support and mentorship. Young LGBTQ+ people around the ages of 16-26 years old may now access this free service by calling 414-336-7974 and leaving a voicemail to get connected with a trained peer-specialist.
Housing, Homeless and Doubled-Up Family Resources
If you are staying temporarily with someone else because you lost your housing, or staying in a motel/hotel, campground, shelter, or in an outside or inadequate place, you and your children have special rights at school.
MGSD Homeless Liaison: Andrea Fresen, andrea.fresen@mgschools.net, 608-316-1922
Student Services Department: 608-316-1373
School Counselors:
School Psychologist: Melissa Smith
School Social Worker: Maggie Danielson
Engagement Specialist: Toren Young
School Resource Officer: Luke Wunch
Administrative Assistant: Michelle Boyde
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Registered Trades Apprenticeships
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Students who are interested in a career in a Registered Trades Apprenticeship post-high school, should consider attending this event that is hosted by WRTP/BIG STEP on November 15th from 9 AM to 3 PM at 2102 E Spring Drive in Madison. All of the union trades will be represented. Registration is strongly encouraged for those who wish to attend this event. Click here for the registration link.
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Model UN is off and running. We are excited for the year and the conference lineup we have. Over 80 students at MGHS have shown interest in Model UN and we have 45 signed up for our first conference SIMUN, down in Chicago. If your student is interested, there is still time to get involved! We meet weekly on Wednesdays at 3:45 in room 252, the Large Group Study Hall. If that meeting time does not work, we have alternatives. Have your student talk with Mr. Wallace or Mr. Jefferson to discuss those.
Model United Nations simulates the actual United Nations. We in Model UN are much more effective. 😄 This year at SIMUN we will have delegates representing Brazil, Japan, Gabon, members of the College Football Playoff Committee, and so much more. Students follow the rule of parliamentary procedure and collaborate to address issues both large and small. While the majority of Model United Nations is geared towards the working of the UN, students are also given the opportunity to participate in non-traditional committees as well. As a club, we emphasize community, skill work, and having fun.
We currently have 3 conferences schedule at this time:
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SIMUN - hosted by St. Ignatius in Chicago on Saturday, November 5th
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MADMUN - hosted by Monona Grove on Saturday, December 10th
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CIMUN - hosted in Chicago on Thursday, February 2nd through Sunday, February 5th
If you have any questions, or are interested in supporting these students, please feel free to reach out to Mr. Wallace or Mr. Jefferson!
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If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (listed below), please follow up with a Clinically administered rapid antigen test and/or a PCR test. Clinically administered tests are required for students. A PCR test is no longer a requirement but you are welcome and encouraged to follow up with a PCR test.
COVID-19 Symptom Checker:
- Fever* (100° or higher), chills, or shaking chills
- Vomiting*
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- New loss of taste or smell
- Muscle or body aches
- Cough (not due to other known cause, such as chronic cough)
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Sore throat, when in combination with other symptoms
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Nausea, when in combination with other symptoms
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Headache, when in combination with other symptoms
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Fatigue, when in combination with other symptoms
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Nasal congestion or runny nose (not due to other known causes, such as allergies), when in combination with other symptoms
*Vomiting and fever may or may not be associated with COVID-19. If your student is experiencing only one of these symptoms, they may return to school once the symptom has resolved after 24 hours without the use of medications.
District testing sites for staff and students: Free Rapid Antigen testing!
Mondays & Thursdays: District Office, 5301 Monona Drive, Monona, from 7:30 am to 2 pm. Please use Door 2.
Tuesdays & Fridays: Glacial Drumlin School, 801 Damascus Trail, Cottage Grove, from 7:30 am to 2 pm. Please use the upper parking lot (facing the soccer fields) and enter at Door 3.
*Use the link below to create an account before you arrive for testing. https://covidconnect2.wi.gov/#/login
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Attention parents and guardians of MGHS students:
The 2022-2023 yearbook fee is now available to be selected and paid for through Infinite Campus. The yearbook fee is not automatically assigned to any students and not all students/families will choose to purchase a yearbook. If you would like to purchase a yearbook, please log into your Campus Parent portal account and follow these steps:
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Select Fees
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Choose My Accounts
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Select Optional Payments
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Pick MGHS *Yearbook and Add to Cart
You will need to repeat this process for each high schooler for whom you wish to purchase a yearbook.
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Please visit the Walsworth website to submit an "ad for grad" for your Class of 2023 senior!
This letter went in the mail mid-August about senior pictures and ads for grads. Here is the ad for grad paper order form if you don't place your order directly with Walsworth. Senior pictures and ads for grads are due November 30th.
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Monona Grove Education Foundation | |
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A fun twist on a traditional raffle! We’re dropping 500 golf balls from a Monona
Fire ladder truck, with the 19 balls closest – and one furthest – to the hole
winning cash prizes! With only 500 tickets available and 20 prizes, your chances
of winning are sky high!
- When: Saturday, October 8, 2022, 10 a.m.
- Where: Monona Dream Park; live streamed on Facebook
- Ticket price: $25 each
- Prizes: 20 prizes, ranging from $100-$1,000
All funds will benefit the Pay It Forward program, Weekend Snack Pack Program
and Monona Grove Education Foundation Teacher Innovation Grants. Pay It Forward
is a program to provide extra support to Monona Grove students struggling with
basic necessities or clothing; and those needing additional tutoring programs and/or
assistance with virtual learning and mental health programs. The Weekend Snack
Pack Program provides 2 meals & 2 snacks per weekend day to students struggling
with food insecurities. The MGEF Teacher Innovation Grants support teachers’
efforts to bring innovative new ideas and programs into the district that fall outside
of traditional funding.
To learn more, see a complete list of prizes, or purchase tickets, please visit www.supportmgef.org/golfballdrop
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Travel Opportunity
If you and/or your son or daughter are interested in travelling to Germany, Czech, and Switzerland next summer, July 2023, you should contact Stephanie Rossing in the English department at stephanie.rossing@mgschools.net.
There are still spots available. With signing up now, you have the opportunity to make payments instead of paying in a lump sum. We travel with EF Tours travel company.
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5301 Monona Drive, Monona, WI 53716 Phone: (608) 221-7660 Fax: (608) 221-7688 | | | | |
