North Notes
Blue Valley North's Parent Newsletter - October 23, 2020
In this Newsletter …
A Letter from North Administrators
November Schedule
BVN Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences
BVN Blood Drive - new location
Winter Sports Participation Packets due Nov. 13
Course Fee Payment Info
New Aux Gym Construction Begins Next Week
Tips for Students
Schedule for October & November
Yearbook Order info
Counseling Updates
BVN Assistance for Families
Senior Class of 2021
Student Announcements
Mark Your Calendar
Kudos and Celebrations
Mustang Medical Messages
Bus Rider Message from Durham
New Parent Booster Club Spiritwear
A Letter from North Administrators
Dear Mustang Community,
If there is ever a year that has made us adapt and test our flexibility, it is this one. I want to thank our students, teachers, and parent community for working together as we navigate all of these changes. I know this school year has not been without its share of challenges and I appreciate all of the hard work everyone has gone through on a daily basis. As you learned last week, the district has decided to continue the hybrid learning mode for the month of November. Please reference the November calendar below for ODD/EVEN/Traditional days. Please note the following:
- Thursday, October 29th is now a B EVEN DAY
- November 3rd is an asynchronous day for hours 1-7. NO ONE ATTENDS SCHOOL IN-PERSON ON THAT DAY.
We know that keeping all of these days straight is a challenge. Thank you for your patience and grace as we communicate changes as they come to us.
Blue Valley North Administration
Blue Valley North High School
(913) 239-3000
Parent/Teacher Conferences - Fall 2020
This year, Parent-Teacher Conferences have gone virtual. Conferences started on October 19 and run through Tuesday, November 3. Teachers will be available at varying times over these two weeks to meet with families. The teachers look forward to speaking with as many parents as possible.
Given the virtual nature of these conferences and the time available, we encourage you to talk to your child, check grades on Canvas, and decide if a Parent-Teacher conference is necessary. If you and your child are happy with how things are going and with their progress in class, a conference is not necessary at this time. Feel free to drop the teacher an email with any extra questions that you might have.
To sign up for a conference please follow these directions. IMPORTANT: After submitting your signup request, an email confirmation will be sent. Make sure your EMAIL CONFIRMATION shows your selected time. If you do not see a filled-in radio button next to your selected time, this means the time was selected by someone else before you clicked submit. You will need to return to the sign-up form and select a new time. If you encounter any problems with the Conference Sign-up, please contact the teacher
Conferences will be conducted via Zoom.
- If you have never used Zoom on your device—Please use one of these 3 options
- Prior to the conference time, download the Zoom Client
- Consider sitting with your student and using his/her MacBook where Zoom is already set up.
- When joining the meeting use this link https://zoom.us/join and enter the meeting code. The meeting code is in the Zoom link found in your Confirmation email. This option does not require a download.
When Attending your Conferences, the Zoom link and password can be found in your email confirmation and here. Please do not share. When you arrive to the conference, you will be in a Zoom waiting room until the teacher finishes with the previous parent. Please try to be a minute or so early as our clocks vary and teachers will need to stay on schedule.
We look forward to the opportunity to visit with you in our “virtual” conference setting.
BVN Blood Drive at New Location - 11/11/20, 1:00-7:00 p.m.
Winter Sports Athletic Participation Packets Due Nov. 13
Winter sports begin on November 16th and include Boys’ Basketball, Girls’ Basketball, Girls’ Bowling, Boys’ Swimming & Diving, and Wrestling. All required paperwork must be in by Friday, November 13, if your student wants to tryout or begin practicing on November 16th. If your student played a fall sport, their physical will already be on file. Forms are available in the main office by the receptionist desk, can be downloaded from the BVN website > Students/Athletics>Useful Links>Participation Packet or here is a link: Participation Packet .
The physical and participation packet has been updated for the 2020-21 season. Every student needs a new physical, every year, completed, signed and dated (May 1, 2020, or after) by a physician (Note: There are TWO places where the doctor has to sign and date the physical. Check this BEFORE you leave the doctor’s office!).
All forms need to be printed, read, signed by a parent and student, and returned to BVN. Completed forms can also be scanned together (no photographs accepted) and emailed to Teresa Anderson, BVN Athletics, tanderson@bluevalleyk12.org , dropped off to the main office by your student or mailed to: Teresa Anderson, Blue Valley North High School, 12200 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66209. (Please remember that visitors, including parents, are not allowed in the school building this year.)
If you have questions, please call Teresa Anderson at (913) 239-3011.
Course Fee Payment is Now Open
High school in-person/VirtualED course fee payment for the 2020-21 school year is open and online now. Your ParentVUE login and password are required to pay course fees.
Course fees are assigned based on your student’s enrollment.
Course fees are assigned for the first semester only.
Questions regarding fee payment should be directed to our BVN Bookkeeper, Linda Kaphingst, email: lkaphingst@bluevalleyk12.org .
New Auxiliary Gym Construction Begins Next Week
Tips for Students and Parents
Does your student need to leave early for an appointment?
Please write a note and send it with your student. Since we are not running passes to students this year, they can show it to their teacher when it's time for them to leave class. Please include your cell phone number, print your full name and sign the note.
Report Student Absences via ParentVue (new)
Did you know you can report your student's absence in ParentVue? This is an easy, efficient way! Once you sign into ParentVue, you will see your student's name and a blue button titled "Report Absence." It takes you to a screen where you can select the start date and end date and the reason code. There is also a box titled "Note" for additional information. Don't forget to hit the "Save" button. If you have questions, please call Rita Mouber, BVN Attendance Manager, 913-239-3001, or call the BVN main number, 913-239-3000.
Put your student's cell phone number in ParentVue and StudentVue!
This year, more than ever, we'll be utilizing our mass communication tool to send text reminders to students as well as parents.
Students! Check Your Student Email Daily
Students, it is important that you get in the habit of checking your school email frequently. We recommend checking it three times a day (morning, lunch, and the end of day). Thank you!
Report Student Absences
Please prepare in advance for your student's absences if at all possible. We cannot get kids out of class easily. If you know your student will need to leave early during a school day, there are multiple ways to expedite the process:
- Send a note in with your student--they should drop it at the Attendance window on their way in.
- Email the Attendance office, attendancebvn@bluevalleyk12.org , preferably a day in advance of the absence.
- Use ParentVue: As noted above, this is an easy, efficient way to report your student's absence. Once you sign into ParentVue, you will see your student’s name and a blue button titled “Report Absence.” It takes you to a screen when you can select the start date and end date, and reason code. There is also a box titled “Note” where you can put additional information. Don’t forget to hit the “Save” button.
Also, if arriving late or leaving early, your student will need to check in/out at the attendance window using a cell phone. If you have questions, please contact Rita Mouber, BVN Attendance Manager, 913-239-3001.
News from the BVN Library
The library website is now accessible from all Canvas pages. In the navigation list on the left side you should see Library. Or: Click here to visit the BVN Library website . From the library website, students and staff can now chat with the librarians during school hours. Look in the upper right corner. No question is too big or small!
Hybrid Schedule for October (Oct. 29 schedule changed)
For the month of October, we are in a hybrid schedule. The schedule is below with the daily bell schedule. Please note these reminders:
- On odd days, students will be let in the building at 7:30 a.m.
- On even days, students will be let in the building at 8:15 a.m.
- Bus riders will be directed to the gym where they will be supervised and socially distanced until going to class.
- Students will need to leave the building immediately after school.
- Attendance needs a minimum of two hours notice to get your student out of class for an appointment. You will be unable to pull up to the school, call the main office and ask for your student to be released. Email AttendanceBVN@bluevalleyk12.org.
- No visitors will be allowed in the building including parents or vendors. This is for the protection of our students and staff.
- Parents will be unable to drop-off forgotten items including laptops, sports equipment, lunch, etc. Please work with your student the night before school to assure they have everything they need for their school day at BVN.
- Thank you for teaming with BVN to keep your students safe!
October 29 - Adjusted Schedule (changed to B Day EVEN)
B Students (alpha M-Z) will attend In-Person for a B Day EVEN Block schedule.
A Students (alpha A-L) will engage in asynchronous or synchronous activities all day from home. This format will help maintain consistency with MS and VirtualED schedules.
Purchase Your Student's Yearbook on ParentVue!
Counseling, Academics & Testing
- Schedule Changes - Level Changes and Drops
- JCCC and Baker Concurrent Credit Information and Deadlines
- Senior College Application Information
- AP Test Information and Deadlines
- New middle school WL credit information
Virtual College Visits on Naviance
News from North – New Video Posted!
Questions? Contact Theresa Gonzalez @ (913)239-3016 or tgonzalez@bluevalleyk12.org
BVN Assistance for Families
My name is Lisa Summers and I am the Social Worker for Blue Valley North. I know it has been a difficult several months, both financially & emotionally, for families. I wanted to let families know we are here to help. BVN has a limited amount of funds to assist families. I am also available to assist families with resources in our area.
Please give me a call (913)239-3116 or email lsummers02@bluevalleyk12.org
Programs that BVN offers include:
· BVN has school supplies
· Back Snack Program. Snacks will be distributed to students on a weekly basis.
· Give the Basics Program: Shampoo, Conditioner, lotion, deodorant, toothbrush, and toothpaste, etc.
You can also contact BVNCommunityCares@gmail.com with your needs.
Senior Info for Class of 2021
We have a new Canvas page for all Senior information!
Check here regularly through the year:
Click here for: SENIOR INFO
This canvas page currently has links to and info about:
- Ordering your senior shirt--due by October 29
- Final Deadline info for senior tribute ad in the yearbook
(no materials accepted after Nov. 12!) - An info video from Balfour about how to order your cap & gown and announcements
- A link to let us know how you want your senior's name printed on the diploma, along with authorizing the release of your student's transcript
- Info about your last chance to take your senior portrait
We will update this Canvas page as new info becomes available--you no longer have to wait for Friday to get updates from this parent newsletter--you can check the Canvas page any time.
Student Announcements
Fall Play Auditions! (new)
Auditions for Bad Auditions by Bad Actors will be held Monday, October 26th and Tuesday, October 27th from 3:00-4:30 in Room 617. Students will sign up for a time slot via a Google form (https://forms.gle/ZStsQYMtwtdJKSLD6) and will be audition with 2 other students reading scenes from the show. If you are interested in auditioning, please fill out the Google form and the SignUpGenius Link for your time slot. If there are any questions, please reach out to Ms. Ham (tlham@bluevalleyk12.org).
Boys' Swimming and Diving (new)
There will be a team/parent meeting via zoom on Tuesday November 3 at 6:30 p.m. Mark your calendars and more details will be in next week's North Notes.
One Crew One Day Mustang Coat Drive
Attention Mustangs! NHS is sponsoring the One Crew One Day Mustang Coat Drive in partnership with the Maze Foundation and their annual Kid's Coat Drive. The Foundation is looking for new or very slightly used boys' and girls' coats, ages 5-17. The Foundation's Goal this year is 500 coats for the winter season. Recipients include the Salvation Army Children's Center, Restart, Cornerstones of Care, KVC, the Hope Center and the Halo Foundation. Donations may be made at BVN from Monday, October 19th through Friday, November 6th. Please bring your donations to the office area; there will be a donation box. Time spent soliciting donations may be used for service hours. Any questions, please contact Theodore Kupper (takupper@bluevalleyk12.net). We appreciate your support!
School Photo Orders
Picture Days were Oct. 6 & 8 at North! If you placed a pre-order for photos, the picture packets will be delivered to your student at school soon. If you did not pre-purchase, your student will be given a proof sheet with an order form, which you can mail with payment to Rolland or purchase from their website. Proofs are online now--Go to www.rollandkc.com and click on either "Seniors" or "K-11", then "View Images". The next screen will ask you to input a code--this is your student's ID number. You'll enter your email and then you can see your student's proofs. Prints can be purchased directly from their website.
Student Photo Retakes & Senior Last Chance
If your student was not able to get their yearbook photo taken or would like a re-take, Rolland Studios will be available in November -- date, time, and location TBA. Rolland will also have the senior portrait option. Questions? Contact BVN Activities: Lisa Miller @ lkmiller@bluevalleyk12.org .
Freshmen Class of 2024--Yard Signs
The PBC has purchased and distributed signs to welcome our new class of Mustangs! If you did not receive a yard sign (due to gated communities or address not in directory) please call 239-3000 and arrange to pick one up. Mustang Proud!
MS/HS World Language Credit Info
9th grade students and families only - This information is only for students who have completed 3 years of middle school world language and will seek to have high school world language credit awarded. In July 2020, the Board of Education revised the policy on high school credit for world language courses successfully completed. Students will have the option of receiving 2 credits for successful completion of the middle school world language series. More detailed information and directions will be sent in a separate email. This process is now automated through ParentVue and the email will be sent from that system.
Student Technology Help
On the Canvas Course card titled BVN Student Hub 2020-2021 there is student support information. After looking at the information in the BVN Student Hub, if you are struggling with technology, there is help.
- If your computer is broken please submit a BVCARE ticket and someone from I.T. will reach out to you. A link to BVCARE can be found on the BVN Student Hub or at www.bluevalleyk12.org / I would like to… / BVCARE- Technology help
- If you are having problems with a specific assignment or course in Canvas, always reach out to your teacher first.
- If you have questions about instructional tools (Canvas, Google Drive, Zoom…) or something is not working the way it should, there is a daily Student Help Zoom from 12:30-1:15pm. To access this Zoom, open Canvas / Click on the BVN Student Hub 2020-2021 Course Card / Click on Zoom / Join anytime between 12:30-1:15pm.
USDA extends free meals for students through 2020
As a result of extended USDA funding opportunities, all students enrolled in Blue Valley will be able to eat for FREE as of Sept. 9, 2020, regardless of eligibility status, until further notice. This includes complete breakfast and lunch meals for students who are dining in-person/hybrid at the elementary level, middle and high school students currently in the Distance Learning model, and all students enrolled in the all-virtual model, VirtualED. Please help out the Food and Nutrition Department and consider eating a complete breakfast and lunch meal at school for free. A la carte items will be charged at the set price and are not free.
Mark Your Calendar
October - Hybrid Mode
Oct. 30 - No School
November - Hybrid Mode continues
Nov. 3 - Election Day/All Students at Home Distance Learning
Nov. 6 - No School/End of 1st Quarter
Nov. 25-27 - Thanksgiving Break
Dec. 23-Jan. 1 - Winter Break
Jan. 4 - School Resumes
Jan. 13-15 - Final Exams
Jan. 15 - End of 1st Semester
Jan. 18 - No School/Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Upcoming All School Events
All BVN events, activities, sporting events and additional calendar adjustments are found on the EKL calendar: www.easternkansasleague.org
Click here for the revised 2020-21 Blue Valley School District Calendar.
Kudos
Girls' Tennis Team
Congratulations to Callie Flanagan on her win at the 6A tennis state championship!
Math League Club
Congratulations to the BVN Math League Team for their 2020 MathLeague Qualifying round results! BVN was the top school in Kansas! These outstanding students also were recognized individually:
Luke Chen was the 10th grade state champion (3rd in 45-state competition)
Kevin Fan was the 11th grade state champion (2nd in 45-state competition)
Richard Koulen was the 12th grade runner-up (3rd in 45-state competition)
In addition, all of the above students qualified for the Kansas State Competition in April.
Science Olympiad Team
Congratulations to the BVN Science Olympiad Team! The team competed on October 10 at the Bay Area Science Olympiad Tournament (BEARSO), a national invitational tournament with 203 teams. The BVN team placed in the top half overall, and several members will receive medals for their high accomplishments in these events:
Experimental Design: 1st place by Ella Chiu and Luke Chen
Chemistry Lab: 6th place by Luke Chen
Anatomy and Physiology: 18th place by Mayah Haug and Luke Chen
Forensics: 19th place by Ella Chiu and Luke Chen
Mustang Proud!
Mustang Medical Messages
COVID Communication (new)
The safety of Blue Valley North students and staff continues to be a top priority. In an effort to keep our school community informed when we have a positive case, families can expect the following:
- Families will be contacted directly if through the contact tracing process conducted by the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) and the district's health professionals' team:
1. your child was identified as a low-risk exposure of a student or staff member
who tested positive for COVID-19.
2. your child was identified as a high-risk exposure/close contact of a student
or staff member who tested positive for COVID-19.
- If your child’s proximity to or nature of the interaction with the positive individual did not indicate a low or high-risk exposure, then you will not be contacted.
NOTE: Positive cases by school are reflected on the BV COVID Dashboard. The dashboard is updated every Friday with information from the prior week (Wednesday to Wednesday).
Is it COVID or is it Allergies?
Watch this Johnson County, KS, Government Public Service Announcement to help you know if your sickness Is COVID or allergies: https://youtu.be/0KN6QEcjnzU
Student Immunizations
Thank you all for keeping your student's immunizations up to date. If you received an Immunization Final Notice please fax or e-mail in your updated immunization record to 913-239-3038 or ajcollichio@bluevalleyk12.org. I greatly appreciate your time and kindness in working with Sandra and I in getting these records up to date. Kansas Immunization Requirements are shown below.Protect yourself from COVID-19
Wash or sanitize your hands regularly, Avoid touching your face and mask, maintain 6 feet distance from others when possible, wear a CDC recommended mask in public settings. Cover your cough with your elbow, enjoy the great outdoors, keep social contacts limited, if you're sick, stay home and consider getting a test.
Planning any travel for the Holidays?
Consider looking over Kansas Travel Exposure Related Isolation & Quarantine Guidelines:
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to e-mail Amanda Collichio, BVN Nurse, at ajcollichio@bluevalleyk12.org. or call at 913-239-3013.
Durham Bus Riders
Durham has decided to not use the Hybrid stop times and instead only use the All in School stop times regardless of what learning mode the District is in. If you have questions, please call Durham at 913-681-2492.
Note that it is best to call outside of route times, between 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. or email admin6700@durhamschoolservices.com.
We are Mustang Proud!
North Notes is a newsletter for the parents and students of Blue Valley North High School. If you have questions, please contact Janet Roush, Assistant to the Principal, at JRoush@bluevalleyk12.org . Thank you!
Blue Valley North High School
BVN Twitter:
@MustangsBvn
@BVNOstroski
@TheKurle
@BVNCounseling
@MustangsOfBVN
@bvnnews
@BVNMustangsPBC
BVN Instagram:
@bvnmustangs
Email: Jroush@bluevalleyk12.org
Website: www.bluevalleyk12.org/BVN/
Location: 12200 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, KS, 66209
Phone: (913) 239-3000
Facebook: facebook.com/BVNMustangs/
Twitter: @bvnnews