Wildcat Growl
January 1, 2023
Our Vision:
De Soto High School ensures all students learn at a high level and have a positive sense of belonging, developing each student to be ready for their future.
Principal's Message
Wildcat Family,
Happy New Year! We hope everyone is having a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Winter Break. We look forward to seeing our students back for the start of the second semester with a Green Day on Thursday, January 5th. The building opens at 7:30 AM, with students reporting directly to their G1 class at 7:50 AM. The Main Office will reopen from Winter Break on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023.
Our DHS Debate Team went 7-1, winning the KSHSAA 5A Regional Championship at Emporia High School! This qualifies the team for the state tournament at Washburn-Rural High School on January 13th & 14th. Members included: Brooklynne Clark, Tyler Gillespie, Kate Hileman, Dylan Handley, and Henry Walawender. Way to go, Wildcats!
Congratulations to Abbey Heller, Counselor at DHS, for being recognized as a USD 232 Making a Difference Award winner for November 2022! New nominations are reviewed monthly so you can submit a form on a monthly basis for any deserving nominee. Making a Difference Nomination Form
During the months of January, February, and March students will complete the process of course selection for the 2023-2024 school year. Directions and information will be shared via our website/Canvas. Students and parents will review the course guide and select courses through Skyward - with students then meeting individually with their school counselor to discuss how their course selection fits into their Individual Plans of Study (IPS).
On Tuesday, February 28, 2023, Junior students will take the ACT at DHS. More information will be coming as the date nears.
Seniors qualifying for ‘Shortened Day’ during the spring semester are reminded of a few key points:
1) During the school day (7:50 am - 2:55 pm), you must enter and exit the building through the attendance office doors,
2) If you do not have Seminar – you will need to sign in through the attendance office to meet with a teacher, and
3) Having a shortened schedule is contingent on your regular attendance and passing all of your courses.
Thanks, and welcome back!
Sam Ruff
Principal, DHS
Kansas Teacher of the Year
Attendance Information
We want to share some important information and reminders for parents. During the summer, we added a new Attendance Office to the north student entrance (door #21). This new student-only entrance/exit will be where students should be dropped off or picked up during the school day (7:50 am - 2:55 pm). Visitors will continue to use the Main Entrance on the south side of the building.
School Meals
Homework Request Information
When your student is absent from school, please encourage your student to reach out to teachers requesting assignments missed due to the absence. Certainly, parents can also reach out to teachers, but part of becoming a self-directed independent learner is communication, being organized, and advocating for yourself. If your student is experiencing a longer-term absence (a week or more), our counselors are available to assist in this process.
Need to contact the Counselors?
DHS Counselors and Social Worker
Crissy Johns (A-G): CJohns@usd232.org
Abbey Heller (H-N): aheller@usd232.org
Kaitlin Britt (O-Z): KBritt@usd232.org
Joe Kordalski (Social Worker): Rkordalski@usd232.org
Kansas ScholarShop
In partnership with Sallie Mae, Kansas State Treasurer’s office has launched the Kansas ScholarShop initiative. ScholarShop aims to restore hope and excitement for students seeking educational and career advancement after high school. With access to 6 million scholarships worth up to $30 billion; students can search and find scholarships, grants and awards tailored specifically to their deepest passions. For more information visit: https://kansascash.ks.gov/scholarshop.html
Cat Booster Club
Securly App
Parents can have peace of mind in knowing your student’s search history and time on their device. See your student’s online activity in real-time and catch up with weekly email snapshots by signing up with the Securly app. Follow the link for more information and directions.