SVS News
Susitna Valley Junior/Senior High School: "Home of the Rams"
SVS Vision:
We aim to provide students with the necessary tools to achieve their full potential.
SVS Mission:
In collaboration with family and community, we will build strong relationships and share challenging, innovative instruction to inspire student passions, potential, and the ability to think critically and creatively
PRINCIPAL'S PIECE
Dear Families,
As we find ourselves on the brink of the end of the third quarter, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for all the hard work and dedication that has brought us to this point. With spring in the air and a renewed sense of energy, let's embrace the opportunities that lie ahead as we push towards the conclusion of the academic year.
The arrival of spring signifies a time of growth, renewal, and transformation. This is the perfect moment to reflect on our achievements thus far and to set new goals for the remainder of the year.
As we enter the final stretch, I encourage each and every one of you to stay focused, motivated, and engaged. Let's continue to support one another, both inside and outside the classroom, as we work towards our collective success. Whether it's finishing strong on assignments, preparing for exams, or participating in extracurricular activities, let's approach each day with enthusiasm and determination.
Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to Su Valley. Together, we can make this spring a time of growth, achievement, and endless possibilities.
If you missed the principal interview on KTNA here is a link to listen to it.
Please do not hesitate to contact the school if you have any questions or require assistance.
Partners in Education,
Bryan Kirby, SVS Principal
907-733-9300
UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER FOR JANUARY
March 1
HS BB at Nenana
March 6
HS BB at Conference (Nenana)
March 7
HS BB at Conference (Nenana)
Spring Break
March 8
HS BB at Conference (Nenana)
March 13
HS BB at State (Alaska Airlines Arena Anchorage)
March 14
HS BB at State (Alaska Airlines Arena Anchorage)
March 15
HS BB at State (Alaska Airlines Arena Anchorage)
March 16
HS BB at State (Alaska Airlines Arena Anchorage)
March 19
HS Track Starts
HS Cheer State (Alaska Airlines Arena Anchorage)
March 20
ASVAB (Military entrance exam / Career exploration)
March 23
NYO at Houston
March 26
State Testing Science 8 & 10
COUNSELOR'S CORNER
Scholarships
New scholarships are being advertised daily at Su Valley. Students can find hard copies on the scholarship bulletin board and from Mrs. Harrison.. There are thousands of scholarships available through sites such as: www.fastweb.com, www.scholarship.com, www.akcis.org, www.wiche.edu, www.cappex.com, www.myscholly.com, www.raiseme.com, www.healthymatsu.org.
Seniors
Seniors intending to apply for loans and scholarships need to file the FAFSA! Federal Student Aid (FSA) is making sweeping changes to the FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year. These changes include updated application questions, financial need calculations, as well as the FAFSA platform itself. The new FAFSA will not be launched until December 2023, instead of October 1st.
Remember, you should file the FAFSA as early as possible after it is released – some institutions have very early FAFSA deadlines – check with your school's Financial Aid Office to find out. Some programs may have later deadlines. The priority deadline to file the FAFSA for the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) and the Alaska Education Grant (AEG) is June 30. Tamra Harrison will be planning a FAFSA completion night for those families who need assistance with filing.
Juniors/Seniors
Students in 11th & 12th grade will be given the opportunity to take the digital School Day SAT in April, 2024. It is recommended that 11th graders take the SAT in the spring. The test consists of three parts in the areas of reading, language, and math. The test takes approximately 3 hours to complete. Students who would like to take the SAT must sign up at the office by February 8th. Su Valley will be covering the cost of the school day SAT exam in April.
Fast Facts about the SAT
- Most students take the SAT for the first time in spring of their junior year; some take it again in fall of senior year. Learn more about when to take the SAT.
- Students can take the SAT as many times as they like; College Board recommends taking it at least twice..
- Different colleges evaluate SAT scores differently. In general, test scores aren’t the most important part of a student’s application—their high school transcript is, and some colleges have adopted test optional policies.
- The SAT connects your child to scholarship opportunities as well as to colleges that are looking for students like them.
SAT Practice
- Your child can practice for the SAT for free by using Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy, where they can get a personalized study plan by taking short quizzes or providing their scores on the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10.
- They'll also find interactive problems, video lessons, and full-length practice tests. Official SAT Practice shows your child which specific skills they need to work on most and customizes their practice plan to help them turn areas of weakness into areas of strength.
- A recent study showed that 20 hours of practice on Khan Academy is linked to an average 115-point increase from the PSAT/NMSQT to the SAT.
- Other free ways to practice include the Daily Practice for the SAT app, full-length practice tests, and online practice questions.
Tamra Harrison
School Counselor and Test Coordinator
Susitna Valley High School
School Code 0201126
(907)733-9305
SCHOOL SPORTS
HS Basketball:
Girls'
The Crowley Classic was a rousing success! The girls narrowly lost the championship game and the boys battled through illness to put up a great effort. We had teams visiting from Unalakleet, Hooper Bay, Prince of Wales Island, Healy, and Nenana. The food that Fernando prepared for the kids was amazing and the hospitality room for the coaches, officials, and volunteers received rave reviews.
The following Friday and Saturday we hosted a smaller event which was the SV JV tournament. There were 4 teams total and the JV kids got lots of playing time and some fun recognition. ~Coach Sickler
Boys'
The boys basketball team won the home JV tournament. Then the varsity ended the regular season well with a winning record (12-11) and third in our conference. They head off to the conference tournament this week to try and make it to state. ~coach Sandifer
MS Volleyball:
MS Volleyball wrapped up last week by hosting the Tri Valley Warriors. As always these young athletes made huge improvements over the season, despite having a record number of “weather” days.
Susitna Valley Volleyball is making plans for their summer camp which will happen the last week of June on the 24th, 25th, and 26th. Watch for announcements and registration information coming out soon. There will be sessions for both MS and HS. ~Coach Valentine
HS Cheer:
The High School Cheerleaders have been excited to cheer on the basketball teams throughout the season. They are now gearing up for their own competition. On March 19th, they will be competing against other cheer teams from all over the state at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage. Go team! ~Coach Crosby
MS Wrestling
We had an amazing middle school wrestling season. Our athletes learned the foundational moves and brought them onto the mat week after week. They always brought their energy and attention to practice and continually put their best effort into the competitions. ~Coach Kenny
Su Valley RAMcast
We're excited to share that we've started a new podcast focused on all things Su Valley. We're just getting started, and like any new journey, things might seem a bit rough at the beginning. But trust us, we're committed to improving with each episode.
Stick with us as we grow and refine our content. We're dedicated to providing valuable insights and engaging conversations as we are navigating the school year. Thanks for joining us on this journey!
Tutoring Help
http://sled.alaska.edu/homework
Tutor.com is a private company that provides free online tutoring help to all MSBSD students.
Students who are military dependents have access 24/7 through tutor.com/military. Military dependents need a valid email address to register and will need to select the appropriate military branch and follow the prompts on the screen.
All other students can access the site through sled.alaska.edu/homework. Students will need to click on “LIVE HOMEWORK HELP”, “STUDENT CENTER”, and then select a content area. It is available between the hours of 1:00 PM and 12:00 AM.
INFORMATION FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE
Mat-Su Pocket Resource Guide
Attached is a resource guide that is very helpful for families that are in need of something but not sure where to look. Some examples are heating assistance, shelters, food banks.
Keeping Your Teen Safe: Preventing Drug Use
As a parent, one of your biggest concerns is your teenager's well-being. Drugs and counterfeit pills are a growing threat, and it's crucial to be informed about the dangers they pose.
The Threat is Real:
- Counterfeit Pills: These dangerous fakes, often laced with fentanyl, can be mistaken for real prescription drugs, leading to accidental overdoses and death.
- Early Use, Lasting Damage: Experimenting with drugs at a young age can have a lasting impact on your child's developing brain, increasing risks for addiction, mental health issues, and learning problems.
Prevention Starts at Home:
- Open Communication: Talk openly and honestly with your teen about the dangers of drugs and addiction. Encourage them to ask questions without fear of judgment.
- Be a Role Model: Your own behaviors and attitudes towards substances influence your teen. Avoid excessive alcohol use and emphasize healthy coping mechanisms for stress.
- Know Their Friends: Get to know your child's friends and their families. Positive peer influences can make a big difference.
- Set Clear Expectations: Establish clear rules regarding drug use and what constitutes acceptable behavior. Be consistent and enforce consequences.
- Monitor Social Media: Be aware of your teen's online activity. Drug dealers often target teens through social media platforms.
Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/museum/education/newsletter/2022/july/index.html#print
https://songforcharlie.org/the-new-drug-talk/
https://songforcharlie.org/the-new-drug-talk/
Romy Byrd RN - School Nurse
Matanuska Susitna Borough School District
Susitna Valley Junior/Senior High School (907) 733-9304
Talkeetna Elementary (907) 733-9415
Trapper Creek Elementary (907) 733-9460
FREE AND REDUCED MEALS APPLICATION
We highly encourage families to fill out the Free and Reduced Meals application, even if you think you may not qualify. These dollars and this designation, is what gives our school it's Title I status, and helps provide additional dollars to put towards educating your child(ren).
This application does need to be filled out each school year, for all families who qualify, or would like to qualify.
FREE & REDUCED MEAL PROGRAM
Free & Reduced Meals Parents can submit applications to enroll their student(s) in the free and reduced meal program. Applications should be submitted annually and may be completed online through SchoolCafe (LINK here) or via a printable application (LINK here). Paper applications can also be picked up at SVS if you do not have the ability to print at home.
Paper applications cannot be submitted via email or fax, but must be submitted to the student's school or directly to Nutrition Services (690 E Cope Industrial Way, Palmer, AK 99645).
The application process will require the following information be provided:
- Total household size
- Income for all household members
- Student name(s)
- Additional information that is helpful, though not required, includes the student's birth date, enrolled school, and MSBSD ID number
Questions regarding the application process can be directed to (907) 861-5100.
HUNGRY? MULTIPLE OPTIONS FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
Here at Su Valley we know that hungry, growing teenagers need to eat! Here are option for both in school, and families at home:
- we have free almond butter and jelly sandwiches & free fresh fruit available every day at the Snack Station - students can help themselves
- we provide free shelf-stable portable snacks as available through the Snack Station - students can help themselves
- we have a free School Food Pantry - available every Friday during lunch, or by request. This is food for any family who needs additional food at home. The items in the pantry are shelf-stable and range from snacks to ingredients for full meals. We also have toiletry items (toothpaste, deodorant, etc) available. Students may help themselves. This is provided in partnership with the Upper Susitna Food Pantry.
SVS PTSA
SVS PTSA has Su Valley spirt gear for sale. Please contact them at svptsa@gmail.com or call the school to leave a message for them. (907)-733-9300
PTSA Monthly Meeting
Thursday, Feb 22, 2024, 03:15 AM
Susitna Valley High School, South Parks Highway, Talkeetna, AK, USA
Late Start Monday
Every Monday we will be starting school at 9:30 am. The rest of the week we will be starting at the normal time of 8:30 am. Another change this year is that we will be in school everyday of the week until 3:00. See Bell Schedule link above.
What are PLC Mondays, click on the link to go to an informative webpage to learn more.
NEED TO TALK TO OUR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COUNSELOR?
PUBLIC INFORMATION FLYERS
The Public Information Office and Office of Instruction encourages schools to share this MSBSD website with their families to share what's happening for kids in the Mat-Su Valley. Schools, parents and other community stakeholders may download, read, or print informational flyers distributed for sharing to all schools each week.
Flyer approval requests may be sent to Laura Richardson, Family & Partnership Coordinator for review and approval for distribution to schools.
Susitna Valley Jr/Sr High School Contact Info
Email: Bryan.Kirby@matsuk12.us
Website: http://www.matsuk12.us/svs
Location: S. Parks Highway, Talkeetna, AK
Phone: 907-733-9300
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Susitna-Valley-JrSr-High-School-314999352167336/?ref=settings