Scarlet News and Notes
January 20, 2020
Assuring Learning Excellence and Readiness for a Changing World
We must see that the time is always right to do right.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
November 12 1961
Mankato High School
Happy MLK Day!
Tonight, two of our students, Bobbi Hampton and Nijae Carter, will receive the Youth Pathfinder Award. They are receiving this award for their courage in sharing their stories of race and equity with our staff.
Finals week is here! You can find important information about finals and grading on our Staff Website.
As we end semester one, I want to thank you for your engagement in our Life Journey work and the dedication you have to supporting all students to be successful. I know we ask a lot of our staff; that is because the work is important, and you were chosen to do the work because of your strengths and talents. Stick together, take advantage of your days off (like today, or any snow days), and take pride in the work you do.
Let's Get to Know...
Cathy Neve from our Math department. Cathy is teaching Geometry and Algebra II A. This is her 31st year teaching, and her 1st year at West. She started her teaching career at Holy Trinity in Winsted, MN and then came to Mankato and taught at Mankato East; she took a leave to become the Director of Religious Ed at Holy Rosary Church for the past 4 years. Cathy grew up in North Mankato and graduated from Loyola High School. She went on to Duluth and graduated with a math & science teaching degree from The College of St. Scholastica. She also earned her Master's Degree in Education Technology and has a K-12 Principals License. She has been married to her husband, Dave, for 12 years, and in her free time she enjoys driving the pontoon, reading, sewing/quilting. This year, Cathy is excited to work with kids every day and working with other professionals in the realm of education.
Mike Sipe from our Social Studies department. Mike is teaching U.S. History, Psychology and AP Psychology. He has been teaching for 28 years, all at West HS. Mike grew up in Hanover, MN and is a MSU alum. Mike is married to Janell and they have two daughters, Hallie and Taylor. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and reading. Each year, meeting and working with a new group of students is what excites Mike about the school year.
Kevin Haggerty is our school psychologist. Kevin has been working in our district for 20 years, and at West for the past 3 years. Kevin grew up in Iowa and South Dakota. He completed his undergrad at Augustana, Doctorate at University of South Dakota, and Post-Doctorate at Penn State. Kevin is married and has 5 West side students. In his free time, he likes to read and garden. When asked about what excites him about the school year, his answer is, "everything!"
Staff News
You may have seen a number of overloads in the board report. Kim Hermer is taking a leave second semester to care for her brother. Please respect Kim's privacy during this time, and know that she has everything she needs. Thank you to our English department and AVID team for stepping up and covering classes and duties.
Staff Meeting
Reminders
Student Surveys
Be sure to have your students complete feedback surveys before the end of the semester. Here is one you can use google form survey (Be sure to make a copy to use as your own.)
Grading - End of Semester
A failing grade should not be a surprise to parents. If a student is failing your class, be sure to communicate that with the parents before the end of the semester.
Shining Scarlets
It is time to think of second quarter nominations for Shining Scarlets. Nominations are due to Jodi by Wednesday, January 29 and essays are due Monday, February 3rd. Shining Scarlet Breakfast will be Friday, February 7th.
AVID Summer Institute
The Week at a Glance
Tuesday
Link Crew Cookies and Cram 3:15pm Cafeteria
Events
Boys Basketball 7:30pm Gym
Thursday
Friday
High Five Friday
Events
Wrestling 5:00pm gym
Alpine Ski 5:00pm Mt. Kato
Girls Hockey 7:30pm ASA
Out of the Office
Coming Soon
Teacher Work Day January 27
Snow Week Pep Fest January 31
Registration for 2020-21 School year January 30 - February 14
Conference Night February 10
Snow Week February 10 - 14
Birthdays This Week
Happy Birthday To
Ashley Hawker January 20