Wildcat Spotlight
October District Newsletter
In New Mexico, the annual Film Prize Junior student film festival is bringing life to the film-making aspirations of rural and Native American middle and high school students.
The competition provides students with tools to become filmmakers and storytellers in a state that, while under-resourced, has a booming film industry. Even more, winning the top titles means earning equipment grants for your school and media scholarships.
The latest round of the Film Junior competition launched September 14th at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque.
Joaquin Kriegel and Santana Valentine pulled inspiration from their hometown of Deming for their award-winning film "Holy Cross." The film was recognized as the best High School Thriller for the paranormal.
Holy Cross is the name of a tuberculosis sanitarium in Deming. The spooky lore of the allegedly-haunted space is a mythos everyone in town is familiar with. So the teens reimagined the old story into a parable about respecting the dead.
"We really wanted to make it unique to our town, to our folklore," said Kriegel.
"I've been making movies for quite a while now," Kriegel added "I started when I was 10 or 11 years old, and it's a cool way for me to be able to express myself."
Joaquin and Santana are both currently studying film, journalism, animation and visual arts with the hopes of making their passion a future career.
Deming Public Schools has launched a new website. Please go to the website and check it out. We have a district calendar, registration information, links to parent portal, and resources for parents and student. The website can be viewed in multiple languages. Please let us know what you think of the website and/or if you run into any problems, please email Mrs. Etcheverry at jessica.etcheverry@demingps.org.
PNM Day of Service
Thank you to PNM for volunteering their time to set the posts for the JROTC obstacle course.
Spirit Day at Bell Elementary
Bell Elementary's Ride Your Bike to School Day
Pre-K Corn Maze field trip
“Ride Your Bike To School Day”, was a huge success . Thank you to all the Parents and students who participated and to the following people: Mayor Benny Jasso, Deming Police Department ,Sylvia Garcia from the DPS safety department and especially Ami Evans from the NM DOT for the free Bike Helmets . A big shout out to John Haynes for the Bike repair.
2023-2024 Columbus Elementary School Student Council
Congratulations to our 5th grade students who are the new student council officers. From left to right: President Sebastian Renteria, Vice-President Arlette Rubio, Secretary Brandon Hernandez, and Historian Jose Luis Vazquez.
September is Attendance Awareness Month. Mrs. Diaz 1st grade and Ms.Loya 5th grade had 10+ days of perfect attendance for the whole month of Sptember!! Students were rewarded with a pizza party.
2023 Snacks for Heros
Memorial Elementary celebrated local law enforcement agencies in their annual Snacks for Heroes event on September 11, 2023. Students hosted heroes in the gym by singing patriotic songs, reading letters of appreciation, and ultimately giving away boxes of snacks and goodies donated by the students and their families. Heroes shared with the students their motivation to serve their community and students all personally thanked them for their service and sacrifices.
Memorial Pre-K students participate in "Another Era" Day during Spirit Week.
Mrs. Fix and Mrs. Kartchner kicking off their next literacy unit with a visit to the pumpkin patch.
3rd and a 4th grade class working together to identify text structure with articles about how different candies are made and where they come from.
RST's September "Word and Color of the Month" was RESPECT and the color GREEN.
RST Students who exemplified being respectful at RST. Thank you for being respectful champions.
Our cafeteria ladies and janitor Robert Branham for "RESPECT" day. Thank you for being great examples of respect and champions at RST.
Pictures from Homecoming Spirit Week.
DIS Student Council hosted a fun filled Spirit Week for staff and students. Thank you to our amazing sponsors and officers for their hard work.
DIS custodians are the heart of our school. We appreciate their hard work and dedication to staff and students.
World Teacher Day
DIS recognizes Science Teacher, Chelsea Lucas. Over the next five years, she will be part of a group of 16 educators across New Mexico who have been accepted into the New Mexico Master Science Teacher Fellowship (MTFs). During this time, she will be mentored into leadership roles in New Mexico Science Teacher Association (NMSTA), the University of New Mexico, and join a national community of NSF Robert Noyce Master Teaching Fellows (MTFs). The goal is to foster a stronger community of science education within New Mexico. Additionally, she will participate in networking with parents, colleagues, and other STEM professionals in New Mexico; field trips; annual 5-day summer institute at UNM, sharing of lessons, and online micro-course. Ms. Lucas continually seeks out Professional Development opportunities that enhance her teaching and student learning. DIS greatly appreciates Ms. Lucas' dedication to student success.
RMMS PowderPuff Game MVPS
On Sept. 21, Thursday, 7th graders won against 8th graders in the annual homecoming Powder Puff game. The girls played their hearts out and 7th grade girls walked away the MVPs and with the champion belt.
The students on the field, on the side cheerleading, and in the bleachers had a blast!
DHS Culinary Art Students Make Fresh Breakfast for Legislators
Deming High School Culinary Art students made a beautiful breakfast for the Economics and Rural Development Legislative Committee when they met in Deming at D.H. Lescombes Winery. Genevieve Wertz, Culinary Arts Teacher, was selected to be on the presentation panel for the Restaurant Association of NM. The panel talked with legislators from around the state about the difficulties in the restaurant industry and how the industry is still trying to recover after the pandemic. Funding for an extension of the education foundation was discussed and suggested the foundation should receive more funding than originally requested. It was a great meeting for culinary arts education.
From Left to Right: Genevieve Wertz, Senator Crystal Diamond Brantley, Ydali Valladolid, Aidan Villescas, Sarah Grange, Sebastian Lescombes
The DPS Mariachi Program has been working hard and performing around the community. Most recently they put on a performance featuring DHS Folklorico at Rockhound State Park. For more information about the DPS Mariachi Program contact Gerard Flores at Gerard.flores@demingps.org
Edgenuity Information
Dear Students and Parents of Deming High School,
New Procedure on Grading for Edgenuity Courses
In accordance with the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) guidelines, all courses—online or traditional—must receive grades each grading period, and these will be reflected on a student's transcript. To foster accountability in student progress, we've updated our documentation procedures for Edgenuity courses.
Required Completion Rates by Grading Period:
- Grading Period 1: 20% course completion required
- Grading Period 2: 40% course completion required
- Grading Period 3: 60% course completion required
- Grading Period 4: 80% course completion required
Report Card Grades:
- If the required percentage of completion is met, the actual "in-progress" grade from Edgenuity will be reported.
- If the required percentage is NOT met, an “F” will be reported, indicating unsatisfactory progress.
Year-End Transcript Grades:
- Completion of 80% or more: The final Edgenuity grade will be entered.
- Less than 80%: An "F" will be recorded on the transcript, requiring the student to repeat the course.
Important Dates for Edgenuity Courses:
- Grading period 1: September 29
- Grading period 2: December 21
- Grading period 3: March 8
- Grading period 4: April 30 (12th graders), May 30 (9th-11th graders)
Additional Points to Consider:
- Self-Pacing: Edgenuity remains a self-paced platform, allowing flexibility in learning.
- Course Recovery: Even if a student earns an "F" in earlier grading periods, they can still pass if 80% or more is completed by the end of the year.
- Failure Risk: A student may be passing in early grading periods but still fail if less than 80% is completed by the final grading period.
Contact Information
For any queries related to Edgenuity courses, eligibility for activities/athletics, or graduation requirements, please reach out to your grade-level counselor at (575) 546-2678:
- 12th grade: Joli Shannon, ext. 3142
- 11th grade: Yvonne Perales, ext. 3146
- 10th grade: Edith Sanchez, ext. 3148
- 9th grade: Heather Tharp, ext. 3144
PSAT INFORMATION
Dear Students and Parents of Deming High School,
We are pleased to announce that Deming High School will be administering the PSAT to all 10th graders and selected 11th graders on October 18th, 2023.
Key Points for PSAT Day:
Who Will Attend:
Only sophomores and selected juniors are to attend school at Deming High School on October 18th for the PSAT.
Time and Location:
Arrival Time:
· Please be on time (8:15 am). Late arrivals may not be admitted to the test.
Location:
· Upon arrival, report to the DHS gym where you will receive your designated room number.
What to Bring:
· Device (laptop): Make sure to bring your device fully charged, along with the charger.
Identification:
· A school ID or other identification may be required.
Cellphone Policy:
· All cellphones must be turned off and handed to the test proctor before the start of the exam.
Food and Drink:
· You will not be able to access snacks or water from your backpack during the test.
For any questions or concerns you may have regarding the PSAT, please feel free to reach out to your grade-level counselor.
We wish you the best of luck on the PSAT!
Attention: Parents of Deming High School Wildcats
On the upcoming PSAT Testing day, Wednesday, October 18, students who are not taking tests will not be required to attend school in person, they will attend school virtually. This is an excellent opportunity for your child to:
1. Review their current grades.
2. Complete any makeup assignments.
3. Email teachers with questions about grades or coursework.
We strongly encourage students to use this day productively to improve their academic standing.
Congrats Homecoming Court 2023!
1st Place Homecoming Float 2023!
ECHS Powderpuff 2023
Department of School Achievement and Success
Deming Public Schools will be asking for the renewal of the Public School Capital Improvement Act Two Mill Levy during the upcoming election on November 7, 2023. Please go out and vote. The funds from the two mill levy are imperative to maintain all of our schools.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Will the two mill levy raise my taxes?
a. The two mill levy will not raise your property tax rate, this is a tax renewal that happens every six years. The two mill levy tax has been in place for over 35 years helping to maintain your schools.
2. How do our schools’ benefit from the two mill levy funds?
a. Our schools’ benefit from the two mill levy with improvements to school safety and security, replacement of worn-out equipment, such as boilers, heaters, air conditioners, water heaters, student furniture, computers and copiers. The two mill also assists with school building upkeep by replacing doors, windows, carpets, floor tile, painting, and roof repair.
3. Are these funds used for staff salaries?
a. This funding cannot be used for salaries.
4. What are the priorities for the two mill funding?
- Fire Alarm Upgrades
- Card Access Control
- LED Lighting Memorial Stadium
- Parking Lot Improvements
- Technology Upgrades and Equipment
- Playground Shade Structures and Playground Improvements
- Security Upgrades
- ADA Parking
- Restroom Access
- Classroom Improvements
- Music Equipment
- Softball Field Upgrades
Voter Information:
1. Absentee voting and early voting start Tuesday, October 10, 2023, through November 4, 2023, at the Luna County Clerk’s office during regular working hours.
2. Early Voting at Mimbres Valley Learning Center starts Saturday, October 21, 2023, through November 4, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays.
3. Election Day is Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Voting hours are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Building for the future, Go Vote!
Daniels Fund Scholarship Program
The Daniels Fund Scholarship Program application is now open. All graduating seniors in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming can check out this fantastic opportunity. There are several scholarships available.
The deadline to apply is October 15th.
https://danielsfund.org/Scholarships/Daniels-Scholarship-Program/Overview
This scholarship is geared towards students with a household income that is below $100,000.
https://danielsfund.org/scholarships/boundless/overview
There is also the Boundless Opportunity Scholarship for adults entering/returning to college, GED recipients, former foster care youth/juvenile justice youth, students participating in ROTC on campus.
Attention: Deming Public School Families
Pursuant to the federal Every Student Succeeds Act and Section 22-10A-16 NMSA 1978, Deming Public Schools is hereby notifying parents of their right to request information regarding the qualifications of their child’s teachers or administrators. This request will include information on teaching degree, major, and license. If you would like to receive this information for your child, please follow the directions below. If you have any questions regarding your right to this information, you may call Human Resources at (575) 546-8841.
Option 1:
1. Parents contact their child’s school to request the Right to Know form.
2. The front office secretary will assign the form in Infinite Campus to the parent. Parent can sign via e-signature.
3. The school will notify Human Resources of the request.
4. Human Resources will send the parent the information between 15 – 30 days.
Option 2:
1. Parents report to child’s school and request the Right to Know form.
2. The front office secretary prints out the form from Infinite Campus.
3. Parent returns the signed form to Human Resources at Central Office, 400 Cody Road, Deming, NM
4. Human Resources will send the parent the information between 15 – 30 days.
Study Abroad Scholarships Available
The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) provides more than 1,000 scholarships for U.S. high school students to study abroad for a few weeks, summer or an academic year in more than 25 countries.
- Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX): Live with a host family and attend high school in Germany.
- Application Deadline: Nov. 1, 2023
- Length: Academic Year
- Future Leaders Exchange Abroad (FLEX Abroad): Live with a host family and attend high school in Georgia, Kazakhstan, or Poland
- Application Deadline: Dec. 6, 2023
- Length: Academic Year
- Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Abroad (YES Abroad): Live with a host family and attend high school in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, or Europe
- Application Deadline: Dec. 6, 2023
- Length: Academic Year
- National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y): Immerse yourself in Arabic, Indonesian, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, Persian, Russian, or Turkish language learning
- Application Deadline: Nov. 2, 2023
- Length: Six-seven weeks in summer or Academic Year
- Youth Ambassadors: Learn about civic education and develop leadership skills in the Caribbean and South or Central America
- Application Deadline: Nov. 13, 2023
- Length: Two-three weeks in summer
Programs cover international airfare, tuition, program costs, meals, and living accommodations (often with a host family), among other things. There are no language prerequisites, except for select Youth Ambassadors programs. Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 18.5 when the program starts. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs strives to represent the diversity of the U.S. and societies abroad in its programs.
Another way to bring the world to your home or classroom is by hosting an international exchange student. Almost 2,000 high school students representing over 50 countries participate in highly competitive U.S. State Department programs to study in the United States each academic year on the CBYX, FLEX, and YES programs.
For more information and outreach materials, please visit https://exchanges.state.gov/highschool and hosting.state.gov.
Questions? Youthprograms@state.gov.
Affordable Connectivity Program
Eligible families are welcome to apply for the federally funded Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which can lower home internet cost. This could include a $30 per month discount on home internet. For more information click here for English and click here for Spanish.
Updated COVID-19 Vaccine for Fall/Winter Virus Season
On Sept. 12, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control announced approval of a new COVID-19 vaccine booster. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against COVID-19-related hospitalization, death and the lingering effects of Long COVID. If you have not received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past two months, consider getting an updated dose to safeguard yourself this fall and winter.
The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 illness this fall and winter. Updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna will be available as shipments start arriving in New Mexico the week of Sept. 11. Everyone is eligible for and should get the flu vaccine, especially adults 65 and older and pregnant people in their first and second trimesters, according to the CDC. Co-infections of COVID-19 and the flu can be severe. Vaccination is your best protection from respiratory viruses, and it’s important to get the flu vaccine before the height of flu season. Getting your vaccine in September or October is highly recommended. Flu and RSV vaccines are readily available at healthcare providers and pharmacies throughout the state. If you need assistance with scheduling, contact the DOH Call Center at 1-855-600-3453; its hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about DOH’s Immunization Program, visit the website.
Deming Public Schools Annual Update
To update student information and collect necessary yearly information, Deming Public Schools utilizes its online registration system to update contact information for students, parents, and emergency contacts. This will also give parents the opportunity to sign FERPA forms, media release information and digital device information for each student in the household.