The Blue & Gold
October 19, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 9
Buckhorn High School
Athletic Director, Mr. David Carroll
Assistant Principal, Mr. Frankie Davidson
Assistant Principal, Ms. April McCutcheon
Curriculum Specialist, Mrs. Sarah Fanning
Email: ssullins@madison.k12.al.us
Website: https://www.madison.k12.al.us/Schools/bhs
Location: 4123 Winchester Road, New Market, AL, United States
Phone: 256-851-3300
Facebook: facebook.com/buckhornhighschool
Twitter: @buckhorn_high
Online Newsletter Navigation Tips
Note: External webpages and websites are provided as a courtesy, and are not controlled by Buckhorn High School or the Madison County School System. If you find inaccurate or inappropriate information, please contact Ms. Suzanne Sullins immediately. Our full disclaimer can be found at the end of this newsletter. Thank you!
Buckhorn High School is committed to keeping our teens safe on the road, and that’s why we’re participating in Celebrate My Drive, a program that’s all about celebrating the fun of getting a driver’s license & helping you stay safe behind the wheel. First, the not-so-good news: More teens die from car crashes than any other cause. And the first year of driving is the most dangerous.
The good news: There’s something we can do about it. And it involves a celebration!
That’s what Celebrate My Drive is about – celebrating the new life of freedom that comes with getting a driver’s license. Part of that life means making smart choices behind the wheel, which is why we’re spreading the message of 2N2® – 2 eyes on the road, 2 hands on the wheel. It’s a simple habit that can reduce distracted driving and help new drivers build confidence and be safer on the road.
BHS has a chance at some pretty nice prizes - like a $100,000 or $25,000 Grant for our school, and maybe even one of two Grand Prize concerts featuring GRAMMY® Nominated The Band Perry.
In order to have a chance to win, we need your help!
It’s simple:
- Starting, Wednesday, October 15th log onto www.celebratemydrive.com
- Enter your e-mail address and birth date
- Indicate you want to support Buckhorn High School (after selected the first day, it will automatically populate Buckhorn for you on the following days.)
- You will be asked 2 safe driving questions (it will not matter if you answer correctly or not). These serve as your purpose for Making the Commitment.
- Click the box that says “I commit to following these safe driving tips.
- Then click “Submit”
Anyone over the age of 14 can make a safe driving commitment once a day, every day, between October 15th and 24th. The more safe driving commitments we make, the better chance we have to win! Tell your friends who are age 14 and older to get involved too!
Thanks for supporting BHS!
The Week Ahead...
20 (M) Vote at www.celebratemydrive.com
20 (M) Sharon Johnston Community Meeting, BHS Cafeteria, 6:30PM
20 (M) BHS/BMS Mountain Biking Team Meeting, BHS - Room 307, 6:30PM
20 (M) V Volleyball Area Tournament (1A, 2A, 3A, & 7A)
20-24 National School Bus Safety Week
21 (T) Vote at www.celebratemydrive.com
21 (T) Prom Theme Voting, Juniors and Seniors Only
21 (T) Special Olympics, Milton Frank Stadium, 9:30AM-1:30PM
21 (T) Swimming @ Scottsboro Invitational, 5PM
22 (W) Vote at www.celebratemydrive.com
22 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
22 (W) Troy University, MPR, Break
22 (W) Art Club Meeting
23 (TH) Vote at www.celebratemydrive.com
23-25 Volleyball Super Regional, VBC
23 (TH) Special Olympics Rain Date, Milton Frank Stadium, 9:30AM-1:30PM
23 (TH) Fall Picture Make-Up Day, 9th-11th Make-Up/Re-Take, Blue Gym, 8AM-8:30AM
*Senior Portraits, Library, by appointment only; *Clubs/Sports, Blue Gym, TBA
23 (TH) Track Interest Meeting, MPR, Break
23 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
23 (TH) Swimming @ Alabama A&M vs. PJPII / MCHS, 6:30PM
23 (TH) University of Montevallo Student Interest Reception, Hsv Museum of Art, 6PM
24 (F) Vote at www.celebratemydrive.com
24 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
24 (F) Bucks vs. Gadsden, Home, 7PM
25 (S) ACT Test
National School Bus Safety Week is an active and evolving public education program is an excellent way for everyone - parents, students, teachers, motorists, school bus operators, school administrators, and other interested parties - to join forces and address the importance of school bus safety. Designed to promote school bus safety, school districts throughout the country have been observing a School Bus Safety Week - held during the third week in October each year.
Make-Up Picture Day - Senior Portraits, Underclassmen Yearbook Photos, Clubs, Fall Sports this Thursday, October 23rd
The sitting fee for seniors is $15. Checks should be made out to Prestige Portraits.
If you have any questions please contact Mrs. Krentel: ckrentel@madison.k12.al.us.
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION
Audree Sisk - Female 2014 Madison County Honor Choir Outstanding Choral Student
Congratulations to Audree Sisk for being chosen as the female 2014 Madison County Honor Choir Outstanding Choral Student! Audree sang a beautiful solo at the Honor Choir concert on Tuesday, October 14th and is well deserving of this honor!
Congrats again, Audree!
Pictured below: Ms. Meg Jones (L) and Audree Sisk (R)
NWS & BHS AMS Storm Spotter Class
The National Weather Service offers to train people on what to look for during severe weather, similar to what came through our area last week. The two hour class was offered at Buckhorn High School last Tuesday and many community members attended the 2-hour training session. Our very own, BHS AMS President, Aaron Ayers spoke to the community members, alongside National Weather Service's Stephen Latimer.
These trained spotters can be essential in saving lives. And Monday night's storms were a perfect example. That EF-1 that went through Muscle Shoals was reported by a trained storm spotter (Megan Wielbold, WAAY-TV).
Photo Credits: Aaron Ayers via Twitter @BHS_AMS
FCCLA Hosted the First Annual Breast Cancer Walk - October 18, 2014
BHS Band Earns All Superior Ratings!
Photo Credit: Cathy Schier Barnes
JOOI Club Volunteers at Manna House
BUCK NATION NEWS
Enjoy the City Coupon Books - $20
Preview the entire coupon book HERE and see how you can save hundreds of dollars instantly! *Note: Publix WILL accept the Star Market coupons, for a total of $60.00 in savings! Purchase one book and you've already made $40.00!
To purchase a coupon book, please email Ms. Suzanne Sullins: ssullins@madison.k12.al.us
Thank you for your support! Go Bucks!
22nd Annual Veterans' Day Assembly
Buckhorn High School will host the 22nd annual Veterans' Day Assembly in Gold Gym on Monday, November 10th 2014. If you have any relatives or friends who are veterans and you think they may like to attend, please contact:
Mrs. Connie Mask: cmask@madison.k12.al.us
Ms. Denise Allen: aallen@madison.k12.al.us
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hartley: rhartley@madison.k12.al.us
FREE! Online Chemical Engineering Course
Chemical Engineering: Review of Enabling Sciences through Problem Solving
The course is a non-credit, free online course intended for high school juniors and seniors, and will cover key concepts that impact chemical engineering education: chemistry, mathematics, physics, and biology.
Any questions?
Contact Dr. Chittur at chitturk@uah.edu.
Stay Connected with Buckhorn High!
Make sure you get all of Buckhorn High School's Facebook updates! Go to our page, move your cursor to hover over the "Like" button until you see a drop down menu. Select "Get Notifications". You should also click on the "Follow" button beside the "Like" button.
Buckhorn High School Facebook Page
FOLLOW US ON OUR OTHER SOCIAL MEDIA SITES:
Buckhorn High School Instagram
Buckhorn High School YouTube Channel
Sign up for ListServ and have our daily announcements delivered to your inbox!
Click HERE for information about School Messenger text message notifications.
Check your child's grades and attendance through the INOW Parent Portal.
A parent/guardian must come to BHS and show a photo id to receive a new pin number. Please Note: Internet Explorer 10 (IE10) users should use compatibility view.
BHS JROTC MEMORIAL PROJECT
As a result of the many generous donations, we have begun construction of the Veterans Memorial Wall. The Memorial Wall will honor all veterans, especially those from the New Market community and Madison County area.
We have received donations totaling over $15,000.00 in cash or material from Buckhorn HighSchool, the Buckhorn High School Class of 2013, Buckhorn JROTC, District 1 Commissioner, Mr. Roger Jones, the Madison County Schools System, Jenkins Brick, Sequatchie Concrete, Alabama Flag & Banner, Clark Memorials & the First Baptist Church of New Market.
We still need your help:
We need an additional $10,000 in short term funding to complete the wall. What’s left to complete is 50% payment ($3,411.00) for the bronze Branch/Service Seals and bronze lettering for the wall & labor to mount them. We will also need $4,915.00 for the labor and materials needed for the beige and red brick pavers that will surround the base of the memorial.
You can help:
Please click the link to access the Veterans Memorial (VM) Donor Form. Please print the form and mail your contribution to Buckhorn H.S. JROTC. With donations of $100.00 or more, we will engrave a red brick paver with your veteran loved one's name and other information you choose to put on the brick paver. These pavers will surround the base of the memorial.
Your donation is tax deductible & we will mail you a receipt. Thank you again for your continued support.
Please address questions/comments to:
LTC (Ret) Robert Hartley, Senior Army Instructor
Buckhorn High School
4123 Winchester Road
New Market, AL 35761
Office Phone: (256) 851-3303 | Cell phone: (256) 508-5067
Email: rhartley@madison.k12.al.us
Upcoming Events & Activities
2014-15 MADISON COUNTY SCHOOLS' CALENDAR
20 (M) Sharon Johnston Community Meeting, BHS Cafeteria, 6:30PM
20 (M) BHS/BMS Mountain Biking Team Meeting, BHS - Room 307, 6:30PM
20 (M) V Volleyball Area Tournament (1A, 2A, 3A, & 7A)
20-24 National School Bus Safety Week
21 (T) Prom Theme Voting, Juniors and Seniors Only
21 (T) Special Olympics, Milton Frank Stadium, 9AM-2PM
21 (T) Swimming @ Scottsboro Invitational, 5PM
22 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
22 (W) Troy University, MPR, Break
22 (W) Art Club Meeting
23-25 Volleyball Super Regional, VBC
23 (TH) Special Olympics Rain Date, Milton Frank Stadium, 9:30AM-1:30PM
23 (TH) Fall Picture Make-Up Day, 9th-11th Make-Up/Re-Take, Blue Gym, 8AM-8:30AM
*Senior Portraits, Library, by appointment only; *Clubs/Sports - Blue Gym, TBA
23 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
23 (TH) Track Interest Meeting, MPR, Break
23 (TH) Swimming @ Alabama A&M vs. PJPII / MCHS, 6:30PM
23 (TH) University of Montevallo Student Interest Reception, Hsv Museum of Art, 6PM
24 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
24 (F) Bucks vs. Gadsden, Home, 7PM
25 (S) ACT Test
27-31 Red Ribbon Week - All outfits must follow the MCBOE dress code.
- Monday: Mismatch Monday - "Drugs are Tacky"
Dress tacky in mismatched clothes - Tuesday: Character Day - "Your Character is Your Super Power"
Dress as your favorite character from comic books, TV, movies, or novels. - Wednesday: Red Shirt Day - "Love Yourself, Be Drug Free"
Wear a red shirt to be included in the annual Red Ribbon picture with Bucky - Thursday: Generation Day - "Live Life to the Fullest"
Dress as a baby, toddler, teen, adult, or grandparent - Friday: Costume Day - "Scare Off Drugs"
Wear your Halloween costume (no masks)
28 (T) Safety Club / Red Cross Blood Drive, BHS Library
28 (T) Dance Team "Trunk or Treat", BHS Gold Gym Parking Lot, 6PM-8PM
29 (W) MCBOE Employee Flu Shots, BHS, 8AM-10AM
29 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
29-30 State Volleyball Tournament, Cross Plex, Birmingham, Alabama
30 (TH) 3-Week Progress Reports
30 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
30 (TH) Swimming @ Alabama A&M, County Swim/Dive Meet, 6PM
30 (TH) Bucks @ Muscle Shoals, 7PM
30 - Nov. 1 Cross Country Sectional Meet, Palmer Park, Madison, Alabama
31 (F) Softball Annual Fruit Sale Begins
31 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
31 (F) Teacher Professional Development (1/2 Day for Students)
NOVEMBER
1(S) Band, Southern States Championship, Chattanooga, TN, hosted by USBands
1 (S) Drama Club presents The One Act Play, BHS Blue Gym Stage, 7PM-9PM, $5.00
2 (SU) Daylight Saving Time Ends (Move clocks back one hour)
5 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
6 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
7 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
7 (F) High School Football, First Round Playoffs
8 (S) State Cross Country Meet, Oakville Indian Museum, Moulton, Alabama
8 (S) SAT Test
8 (S) Swimming @ HSV Natatorium, NAHSSL Swimmers, 3PM
10 (M) FBLA & JROTC Veterans' Day Breakfast/Assembly, Library & Gold Gym, TBA
11 (T) Veteran's Day Holiday
12 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
12 (W) BHS Football Fundraiser, El Monte, All Day & Chill Factory, 5PM-9PM
13 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
14 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
14 (F) High School Football, Second Round Playoffs
15 (S) State Cheerleading Championships, Hanceville, Alabama
14-16 Youth Leadership Retreat, US Space & Rocket Center, $239, 1-800-637-7223
17-21 American Education Week
18-Dec. 18 ACT End of Course Tests (English 10 & Algebra I)
19 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
20 (TH) 6-Week Progress Reports
20 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
21 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
21 (F) High School Football, Third Round Playoffs
21-22 Swimming @ HSV Natatorium, NAHSSL Qualifiers, TBA
26-28 Thanksgiving Break
DECEMBER
1 (M) STAR Testing Begins
3 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
3 (W) High School Football, Super 7, 7A - 3:00PM, Auburn, Alabama
4 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
5 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
10 (W) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
10 (W) BHS Football Fundraiser, El Monte, All Day & Chill Factory, 5PM-9PM
11 (TH) JOOI Club Meeting, 8:05AM or 3:35PM
12 (F) FCA Huddle, BHS Choir Room, 7:45AM
12-13 Swimming @ Auburn University, AHSAA State Qualifiers, TBA
13 (S) ACT Test
16 (T) FCCLA Meeting, Room 139, 8AM
17 (W) Exams (1/2 Day)
18 (TH) Exams (1/2 Day)
18 (TH) STAR Testing Ends
18 (TH) End of Grading Period / End of Semester
19 (F) Teacher Work Day
19-Jan. 4 Winter Break
JANUARY - 2015
2 (F) Teacher Work Day
5 (M) Students Return to School
6 (T) Report Cards
19 (M) Martin Luther King Holiday
27 (T) 3-Week Progress Report
FEBRUARY
2-6 National School Counseling Week
7 (SA) ACT Test
13 (F) Teacher Professional Development (1/2 Day for Students)
16 (M) Presidents' Day Holiday
19 (TH) 6-Week Progress Report
MARCH
7 (S) Military Ball
8 (Su) Daylight Saving Time Begins (Move clocks forward one hour)
13 (F) End of Grading Period
14 (S) Pi Day
19 (TH) Report Cards
23-27 Spring Break
APRIL
9 (TH) 3-Week Progress Reports
11 (S) Prom, VBC, 8PM-12AM
17 (F) Teacher Professional Development (1/2 Day for Students)
18 (SA) ACT Test
22 (W) Administrative Professionals' Day
23 (TH) Take Your Child to Work Day
28 (T) ACT Plus Writing (11th Grade)
30 (TH) 6-Week Progress Report
MAY
2 (SU) Read Across America
3-9 Teacher Appreciation Week
4-8 School Nutrition Employee Week
6 (W) School Nurse Day
12 (T) ACT Plus Writing Makeup (11th Grade)
19 (T) Graduation Practice, VBC, 10AM (Mandatory)
19 (T) Graduation, VBC, 7PM
20 (W) Exams (1/2 Day)
21 (TH) Exams / Last Student Day (1/2 Day)
22 (F) Teacher Workday / End of School Year
25 (M) Memorial Day
28 (TH) Report Cards Mailed (Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope)
Senior Announcements
NEW! Class of 2015 - Senior Website!
Thanks to Mrs. Christina Krentel - Seniors and Senior Parents now have a website just for them! If you are looking for any information about senior activities, fees, pictures, or college info please visit the website: www.buckhornseniors.weebly.com
RECRUITERS WILL BE AT BHS ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:
Troy University - 10/22/14 - Multi-Purpose Room- during break
LAST CHANCE FOR SENIOR PORTRAITS
The last chance for seniors to be photographed will be on fall picture make-up day, which will be October 23, 2014. Please be aware that if you do not get your portrait made with Prestige Portraits, you will not have a picture in the yearbook. Thank you!
SENIOR ACTIVITY FEES
Please see Mrs. Christina Phipps Krentel to pay your senior activity fees, $40 (cash only). These fees include the senior breakfast and the senior picnic.
Yearbook Sponsor - Mrs. Christina Phipps Krentel
Senior Sponsor - Mrs. Carrie Bates
Senior Counselor - Mr. Dan Schwanke
ACT/SAT Announcements
ACT Results - Seniors (last year's juniors) who participated in the state ACT testing and received college-reportable scores will be able to view their scores and score report on a free ACT Web account they create. Students can create an account at www.actstudent.org. If a student has an existing account, he/she can log in to the account to check the state ACT testing scores. If you have questions, please e-mail ACT-WebAccount@act.org.
2014-15 ACT Test Dates & Deadlines
Test Date: October 25, 2014
Good Luck to everyone testing!
Test Date: December 13, 2014
Registration Deadline: November 7, 2014 | Late Fee Required: November 8–21, 2014
Test Date: February 7, 2015
Registration Deadline: January 9, 2015 | Late Fee Required: January 10–16, 2015
Test Date: April 18, 2015
Registration Deadline: March 13, 2015 | Late Fee Required: March 14–27, 2015
Test Date: June 13, 2015
Registration Deadline: May 8, 2015 | Late Fee Required: May 9–22, 2015
Please Note: All current eleventh graders (Class of 2016) will take the ACT Plus Writing at BHS (free of charge) on Tuesday, April 28, 2015. The make-up date for the ACT Plus Writing assessment is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2015. A username and password for online ACT test prep will be provided to all current eleventh graders prior to the ACT test in April. Date TBA. ACT study packets can be picked up in the guidance office.
Counselor Contacts: Mrs. Dee Gordon, Mr. Dan Schwanke, Mrs. Stephanie Wheeler
SAT Test Dates & Deadlines
Test Date: November 8, 2014
Late Registration (Phone/Online): October 28, 2014
* Deadlines expire at midnight, EDT (U.S.).
Register Now for the 11/8 SAT test date.
2014-15 Madison County Schools' Testing Schedule, All Grade Levels.
A Few Reminders: Rules & Regulations
Parents, or individuals acting in that capacity, are responsible for seeing that each student under his/her care and control follows school system policy and local school rules and regulations. It is also the responsibility of parents to know such policies, rules and regulations.
Car Riders
Students are NOT allowed to walk to Winchester Road to get in a car after school. ALL cars must pull onto campus to safely pick up car riders. Students who do not follow this rule will be suspended, per Mr. Markham. Thank you for helping us keep our students safe.
Outside Food
Please remember that it is Buckhorn High School's Policy to NOT allow any outside food to be delivered to the school during regular school hours. (This policy does not apply to a 'brown bag' lunch that is prepared at home and brought to school by the student).
Checking Student Out of School
It is Buckhorn High School's policy to NOT allow student check-outs after 3:15 p.m.
Only custodial parent(s) will be allowed to check a student out of school, unless the custodial parent(s) has specifically designated someone else to check the student out of school. School officials will keep accurate records as to whom, what time, and for what reason students are checked out of school. [MCBOE 2014-2015 Code of Conduct, page 21 of 32, Approved July 10, 2014]
Student Publications
The Board of Education authorizes school officials to allow students to have student sponsored publications within the school, and expects the administration to monitor such publications to the extent that disruptions do not result from the contents. Student publications are subject to and will be expected to meet standards associated with responsible journalism. The principal and student publication sponsor are responsible for the content of such publications.
Student publications not approved by the Principal are not allowed, and the Principal shall not allow distribution of publications without prior approval. A certified person shall be appointed to be responsible for supervising student publications, and shall report directly to the Principal in the production of such publications. [Madison County Board of Education 2014-2015 Code of Conduct, page 5 of 32, Approved July 10, 2014]
Media Coverage of School Events
Occasionally local news media visit schools in Madison County to do special reports or follow up on certain news events. As a part of their coverage they often film certain aspects of the school.
It is the principal’s decision whether to allow news media to come into the schools and cover certain events. Extra precautions are taken when the media is covering a sensitive topic or event that might have a negative impact on the school, staff and students.
Parents who have concerns about their child possibly being filmed or photographed by the media should contact the principal. Principals will make every effort to accommodate the wishes of the parent, but it should be understood that it is very difficult to foresee every possible situation that might occur from media coverage of the schools and school events. [Madison County Board of Education 2014-2015 Code of Conduct, page 5 of 32, Approved July 10, 2014]
You may access the complete 2014-15 Code of Conduct through this link:
Daily Schedule
BHS Bell Schedule
8:00 a.m. - 8:25 a.m. The cafeteria is open for breakfast to all students
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. First Block
8:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Breakfast (Ninth Grade Academy Only, First Term Only)
10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Break (10th - 12th Grade Only)
10:20 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Second Block
11:55 a.m. - 1:55 p.m. Third Block
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Fourth Block
3:15 p.m. - The latest time a student may be checked out.
The building will close at 4:00 p.m.
The building will be open on regularly scheduled school days from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Students arriving on campus before the first bell should be dropped off in the back of the building (near the big buck, 'Bucky') and report directly to the cafeteria. Students are not allowed to roam the building before the first bell. If a student needs to go to a teacher's room before the the first bell, arrangements must be made for a teacher to escort a student to his or her room. If a student is staying with a teacher after school, he/she must remain with the teacher until a parent or guardian picks him/her up. The building will close at 4:00 p.m. each day, so please make arrangements to have your child picked up before this time. *This does not include athletic practices/conditioning that require the use of the facilities.
Helpful People & Links
- Mrs. Royce Balch, CNP Manager
- Mrs. Beth Countess, Administrative Assistant
- Mrs. Paige Craig Library Media Specialist / Technology Integration Mentor
- Mrs. Dee Gordon, Counselor, 11th grade & 9th grade, A through G
- Mrs. Angie Gothard, Registrar
- Ms. Tina Hill, Attendance
- Deputy Kenneth Hooper, SRO
- Ms. Laura McFarlen, Nurse
- Mrs. Margaret Norman, Registrar
- Mrs. Sherry Ricketts, Attendance
- Mr. Dan Schwanke, Counselor, 12th grade & 9th grade, H through M
- Mrs. Kelley Waldon, Bookkeeper
- Mrs. Stephanie Wheeler, Counselor, 10th grade & 9th grade, N through Z
- Madison County Schools' High School Academic Guide and Course Catalog.
- Get instant access to final exam schedules, rehearsal/graduation schedules, and other general information for high school students at the Madison County Schools' Secondary Education Website.
- Visit the Madison County Schools' Website for district news and announcements.
- Visit the Alabama State Department of Education Website for state news and announcements.
Scholarships & Special Programs
GREAT NEWS! For the first time, access to the Tuition Funding Sources (TFS) scholarship website is available to BHS students. TFS has millions of scholarships and grants. Wells Fargo Bank is sponsoring the scholarship matching website that also includes a career personality test along with college and career planning tips and tools. Please visit TuitionFundingSources.com for more information.
U.S. Space and Rocket Center - Youth Leadership Retreat
Cost: $239 per student
Retreat Overview:
Attention Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. The Space and Rocket Center is hosting a Youth Leadership Retreat where students develop critical life skills and valuable scholarship and college admission points. They'll work in teams to navigate rope elements, ascend 35 foot poles and 50 foot climbing walls and exercise critical thinking and problem solving skills with the crew trainers in their Area 51 Challenge Course. The program is November 14-16, cost is $239 per student. Call 800-637-7223 or contact Mr. Livermore for more information.
VFW’s Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition
Topic: Why Veterans are Important to our Nation’s History and Future
Deadline: November 1, 2014
Amount of Award: First Place - $30,000.00
Competition Overview:
All students in grades 9-12 can apply. We want to reach as many patriotic students as possible to compete for the grand prize: $30,000 paid directly to the American college, university or vocational/technical school of their choice! Download the application
New! The Prudential Spirit Community Award
Deadline: November 4, 2014
Amount of Award: Certificate - $5000.00
Award Overview:
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program is the United States' largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. The program was created in 1995 by Prudential in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) to honor middle level and high school students for outstanding service to others at the local, state, and national level.
The program's goals are to applaud young people who already are making a positive difference in their towns and neighborhoods, and to inspire others to think about how they might contribute to their communities. Over the past 19 years, more than 370,000 young Americans have participated in the program, and more than 100,000 of them have been officially recognized for their volunteer efforts.
If you would like to find out more about us, please contact us.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
Deadline: Opens Late August - Ends Early November
Amount of Award: Up to $30,000.00 per year
Scholarship Overview:
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program is a new undergraduate scholarship program available to high-performing high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. College Scholars receive up to $30,000 per year, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to network with the larger JKCF Scholar community. The application period is open from late August to early November. Up to 40 College Scholars are selected for this program each year. Final notification is in late February. Visit the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship Program Website for an application and more information.
Christopher Columbus Essay Contest
Deadline: December 1, 2014
Amount of Award: Up to $1200.00
Contest Overview:
The Twickenham Town Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, has extended an invitation to students in grades 9-12 to participate in their annual Christopher Columbus Essay Contest. This year’s topic is entitled “Joining Christopher Columbus on His Voyage to the New World.” Students that choose to participate in the contest must mail their essays to Ms. Linda Provost, no later than December 1, 2014. For more information contact Linda C. Provost at lcprovost@aol.com or by phone (770)778-7392.
P.E.O.’s Alabama Chapter Z Scholarship
Deadline: December 1, 2014
Amount of Award: $500.00+
Scholarship Overview:
Graduating female senior entering the Fall 2015 semester as a first time student in a two or four year institution in which the minimum of an Associate’s Degree can be earned.
3.0 minimum GPA on a 4.0 scale. Actively involved in community, extracurricular and/or work activities.
Mail completed Application Packet by December 1, 2014 to:
Alabama Chapter Z Scholarship Fund
PO Box 24, Creekside at Collier’s End
Mooresville, Al 35649
Awards will be announced after May 1, 2015. The awardee(s) will be notified by mail. All information gathered will remain confidential and the sole property of P.E.O. Alabama Chapter Z. Please send any questions to alzscholarship@gmail.com.
Deadline: December 3, 2014
Amount of Award: $1000.00
Scholarship Overview:
Are you a student who loves to help animals? P.L.A.Y. wants to hear your story!
To qualify: The contest is open to U.S. residents. No purchase necessary. All participants must be enrolled as full-time high school juniors or seniors. Entries are limited to one submission per person. Immediate family members of P.L.A.Y. employees are excluded from this contest. All essay submissions must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, December 3, 2014.
How to enter: To apply, students will submit an essay with 2-3 photos of their volunteer efforts to help animals in need and how that involvement has changed their lives or shaped their perceptions on the importance of animal welfare.
- The essay should be between 500-1000 words.
- Send a Word doc attachment to scholarship@petplay.com with your essay submission
- The file name should be your full name, state, and date of birth. For example, Chipper-Jones-GA-4-24-1972
- All submission emails must contain the student’s full name, date of birth, email address, postal address, high school they are currently enrolled in, and a phone number to contact.
NEW! Elks National Foundation - Most Valuable Student
Application Deadline: December 5, 2014
Amount of Award: Up to $50,000.00
Award Overview:
The Elks National Foundation will award 500 four-year scholarships to the highest-rated applicants in the 2015 competition.
- Any high school senior who is a citizen of the United States is eligible to apply.
- Applicants need not be related to a member of the Elks.
- College students are not eligible to apply.
- Applicants must be citizens of the United States on the date their applications are signed; permanent legal resident status does not qualify.
- Male and female students compete separately.
2015 Most Valuable Student applications are due to the Elks Lodge closest to the applicant's home by December 5, 2014. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
Application can be mailed to Huntsville Lodge No. 1648, P.O. Box 352, Huntsville, AL 35804.
AQHF Swayze Woodruff Memorial Mid-South Scholarship
Deadline: December 2014
Amount of Award: Varies
Scholarship Overview:
Ideal candidates have been a member of AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association) or AQHYA (American Quarter Horse Youth Association) for at least one year who is from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi or Tennessee, and who competes in AQHA-approved shows. Member must apply during their senior year of high school or while enrolled at an accredited college or university. Recipient must maintain a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade point average. Current or previous AQHF scholarship recipients are not eligible to receive this scholarship. Funding for this scholarship will be applied to a four-year undergraduate degree program of the student's choice. For more information, please visit their website.
Deadline: January 9, 2015
Amount of Award: $3000.00
Scholarship Overview:
The Linly Heflin Scholarship Committee grants four year scholarships in the amount of $3,000 per year to a limited number of Alabama women who have both significant economic need and a sound academic record. Scholarship instructions and applications can be downloaded at www.linlyheflin.org
American Red Cross BloodStock Scholarship Challenge
Deadline: January 15
Amount of Award: $1000.00 - $2000.00
Scholarship Overview:
-Blood Drive must be held between December 15 and January 15.
-Attend face-to-face planning meeting(s)and stay in close contact with your American Red Cross Representative.
-Find a blood drive location with the help of your American Red Cross Representative.
-Recruit and schedule at least 46 blood donors from friends, family and potential past donor lists supplied by the American Red Cross.
-Help recruit volunteers to assist at the blood drive (greeters, canteen).
-Be at the blood drive for the entire drive to better ensure the success of your BloodStock Drive.
-Collect a minimum of 35 units of blood from volunteer blood donors to enter the drawing for a $1000 scholarship.
*Scholarship check will be made payable to the College/University the student is or will be attending, not to the individual.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program
Deadline: Opens Mid-January - Ends Mid-March 2015
Amount of Award: Financial Support from the 8th grade through high school
Program Overview:
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program offers the most personalized, generous scholarship and educational support to exceptionally promising students from families across the nation who have financial need. Young Scholars receive comprehensive educational advising and financial support from the 8th grade through high school to pursue their unique academic and talent goals. The application period is open from mid-January to mid-March. Up to 60 Young Scholars are selected for this program each year. Final notification is in the early fall. Visit the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program Website for an application and more information.
American Red Cross Youth Volunteer
Ongoing
Program Overview:
The American Red Cross Youth Services is a multi-faceted program for youth (15-17), offering many activities and courses for every age level. Youth programs build character and provide the tools and experience youth need for leadership, strong communication skills, and service. By interacting with those in need, Red Cross youth volunteers establish a sense of awareness and personal achievement while developing these skills. Online Application
SunTrust's 'Off to College' Sweepstakes
Deadline: Ongoing, September 15th through Mid-May
Amount of Award: $1000.00
Sweepstakes Overview:
The 2014-15 'Off to College Sweepstakes' will begin on September 15, 2014. High school seniors and current college students can win a $1,000 scholarship.
ACHE Junior & Community College Performing Arts Scholarship Program
Deadline: Varies
Amount of Award: Varies
Scholarship Overview:
An award not to exceed in-state tuition only for attendance at public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Awards are based on demonstrated talent determined through competitive auditions. Awards are not based on financial needs.
This award is for full-time students attending public junior and community colleges in Alabama. Contact the financial aid office at any public junior or community college in Alabama to apply. Competitive auditions will also be scheduled as part of the application process. For more information, please visit their website.
Alabama Student Grant Program
Deadline: Varies
Amount of Award: Up to $1200.00 per year
Program Overview:
The Alabama Student Grant Program is an award of grant assistance at an eligible independent Alabama college or university and is not based on need. Up to $1200 per academic year with maximum amount available only when sufficient funds are available.
Who may apply?
Undergraduate students--both half-time and full-time--who are Alabama residents attending Birmingham-Southern College, Concordia College, Faulkner University, Huntingdon College, Judson College, Miles College, Oakwood College, Samford University, Selma University, Southeastern Bible College, Southern Vocational College, Spring Hill College, Stillman College, and the University of Mobile.
How to apply?
Applications are available from the financial aid office at the institution you plan to attend. Application deadline dates are printed on the application form.
The largest source of academic scholarships is from the specific colleges. Most colleges have scholarship funds for students with particular skills and abilities as well as demonstrated academic evidence. Contact the financial aid office of your college or university to schedule an appointment. Be sure to ask for any lists of scholarships or other aid available to students.
$11 billion in merit scholarships is available for college. The problem is, these academic scholarships have never been easy to find. Until now. Introducing MeritAid.com, a comprehensive directory of merit scholarships and academic scholarships from colleges across the country. Let the colleges come to you! Visit http://www.meritaid.com/ and type in the name of a college to access their scholarship list.
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will be available January 1. If you need assistance in filling out the form, call Mrs. Irene Steele at the NACEE (North Alabama Center for Educational Excellence) 256-372-4600 to request a free consultation.
If you are planning to play sports in college, make sure you sign up on the NCAA or NAIA website.
2014-15 Madison County Schools' Calendar
Please be aware of the revisions that were made to this year’s calendar. This year's school calendar includes four half-days for professional development on September 26th, October 31st, February 13th, and April 17th. Students will attend the first half of the school day on each of these dates. Fall Break has returned this year and will be October 6th - 10th. We will also observe President’s Day on Monday, February 16, 2015. All other holidays/breaks remain the same as previous years.
Important Media Release Notification
Click HERE if you do NOT want your child's picture/name published online.
If you have difficulty accessing/filling out the online form, please email Suzanne Sullins for assistance. Please include BHS Media Release as the subject of your email.
Previous Editions of The Blue & Gold
September 28, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 8
September 21, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 7 (Homecoming Special Edition)
September 14, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 6
September 7, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 5
August 31, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 4
August 24, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 3
August 17, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 2
August 10, 2014 - Volume 2, Issue 1
Special Edition, Summer IssueDisclaimer
The Madison County School District does not discriminate in admission, treatment, or access to programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religious preference, disability, age, gender, citizenship, non-English speaking ability, or homeless status. Students with disabilities will be provided with the same needed supports and services for extra-curricular programs and activities that are provided during the school day, unless doing so would fundamentally alter the nature of the program and activity.
Contact for Title IX and Section 504
Mrs. Anna S. Watts
Telephone: 256.852.2557 Fax: 256.851.2127
Email Address: awatts@madison.k12.al.us
Some links will let you leave the school online newsletter. Some of the linked sites are not under the control of the school/district, and the school/district is not responsible for the contents of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site, or any changes or updates to such sites. The school/district is providing these external links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement of the site by the school/district.
Madison County Board of Education
1275 Jordan Road, Huntsville, Alabama 35811
Mailing Address P.O. Box 226
Huntsville, Alabama 35804
(256) 852-2557
4123 Winchester Road, New Market, Alabama 35761
(256) 851-3300
If you find inaccurate or inappropriate information on any of the external links, please contact Ms. Suzanne Sullins immediately. Thank you.