News and events - April 6, 2023
April 7, 2023
Important Upcoming Dates
- April 20- Parent-Teacher Conferences (2:50pm-6:50pm)
- April 24- MCA Testing for 10th & 11th graders (remote learning day 9 &12)
*Please note April 24th is now a remote learning day for 9th & 12th graders- April 29 - CRHS Prom (International Market Square)
- May 2 - National Honor Society Induction & Senior Recognition @ 7pm
- May 29 - No School- Memorial Day
- June 2 - Seniors’ Last Day
- June 4 - CRHS Graduation (Maturi Pavilion, Univ of MN campus)
- June 8 - Last Day of School (9th-11th graders)
- June 9 - No School- Staff Grading Day
Late Start Mondays- Update for Trimester 3
The dates of the Late Start Monday mornings in Trimester 3 are the following: 4/10, 4/17, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22
**Reminder to CRHS students that on late start days students arriving before the 8:20am need to do homework or connect with friends in either the Cafeteria or Auditorium (no food allowed in auditorium). Movement between these spaces stops at 7:35am.
MCA Testing for 10th & 11th Graders- Monday April 24
The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment Test (MCA) will be given to 10th and 11th graders on Monday, April 24. Please review the expectations for students on this day.
- 10th and 11th grade students- MCA testing: 11th graders will take the MCA math test, 10th graders will be taking the MCA reading test.
- Report to CRHS by 7:40am and check for their testing room by looking at the lists on the wall in the hallways.
- Students may leave school once completed.
- Students who are eligible for transportation home will remain at school in a supervised area until 2:20 pm if they do not have a ride once the test is completed.
- A bag lunch will be available for students who remain at school following the test.
- 9th and 12th grade students- optional remote learning day
- CRHS students in 9th & 12th grade have the option to work remotely and complete learning activities through Google Classroom.
- 9th and 12th graders who choose to come to school will work in a supervised study hall in the cafeteria.
- Transportation
- Morning and afternoon buses will run at their normal times.
CRHS Robotics Team Succeeds at Regional Competition
As it says on the backs of their shirts, “Success is in the C.A.R.D.S.!” was definitely true at this year’s Competition. Coon Rapids High School is proud to celebrate the outstanding performance of FRC Team 7850 - C.A.R.D.S. at the recent Minnesota 10,000 Lakes Regional presented by Medtronic. From March 29 to April 1, 2023, the team competed against 61 other teams and came out on top, placing 6th overall with a record of 8 wins and 1 loss.
But that's not all. The C.A.R.D.S. then went on to select their alliance partners and became the captain of the 5th place alliance, joined by Team 4664 - Butler Bots and Team 6709 - SPUDInc. Together, they fought hard and made it all the way to Match 5 Round 2, displaying their exceptional teamwork and strategy.
This impressive performance is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the C.A.R.D.S. team members, who have been tirelessly preparing for this competition. They have demonstrated their skills in engineering, programming, and strategy, all while embodying the FIRST Robotics Competition values of gracious professionalism and cooperation.
If you want to learn more about this talented team, visit their website at team7850.org or follow them on social media @frcteam7850. We look forward to seeing more great things from FRC Team 7850 - C.A.R.D.S. in the future and congratulate them on their outstanding performance at the Minnesota 10,000 Lakes Regional presented by Medtronic.
DECA Donates Teddy Bears to Mercy Hospital
On March 31st, Coon Rapids DECA traveled to the Mall of America to complete a community service project by volunteering at Build-A-Bear workshop. These DECA students made and purchased sixteen bears to be donated to Mercy Hospital for children in need of comfort before a procedure or surgery. Our DECA members were very excited about the opportunity to give back to the community, while also having fun with peers.
Senior Edward Tabla said, “It was cool to do something for people who are in need, and it was fun to spend time with other DECA members.” Freshmen, Elizabeth Becker personalized the following note to go along with her military themed bear.
“I hope you love this little Army bear! I wish you luck in whatever you are dealing with, and I hope this bear means something special to you.”
After Build-A-Bear, DECA contacted Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, and arranged a drop off time to donate their teddy bears.
DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for future careers in Marketing, Finance, Hospitality, and Management. For more information on DECA, contact CRHS DECA advisor Blake Bodenburg at Blake.Bodenburg@ahschools.us
CRHS DECA students rubbing the heart on their head so their bear will be intelligent.
Elizabeth Becker and her Military Themed Bear.
Freshmen Lilyanna Gagnon and Elizabeth Becker at Build a Bear.
Nurse's Office Reminder for Families of 11th Grade Students
The state of Minnesota requires all students to have a meningococcal booster by the beginning of senior year. Now is a great time to schedule this vaccination! For most, the first dose was given with a tetanus booster back in 7th grade. For those who have not received the first dose, only one dose will be required if your student is at least 16 years old. For those who do not want to complete the vaccination, please complete the exemption portion of the MDH Immunization Form, sections 1A and 1B. Please send completed exemptions or updated vaccination records to julie.swanson@ahschools.us or have your student bring their form to the health office. Thanks!
Coon Rapids HS Girls Lacrosse Fundraiser- Chipotle night, April 11
President's Volunteer Service Award 2022
If you are eligible to receive the President's Volunteer Service Award, you will receive a certificate, pin, and a congratulatory letter from the President.
If you have any questions about the hours you have reported, please reach out to Ms. Johnson at liz.johnson@ahschools.us.
Coon Rapids High School Student Volunteer Opportunities
All individual volunteer opportunities will be posted in this list. The list will be updated and shared weekly with students.
If you are unable to find volunteer opportunities, please feel free to contact Ms. Johnson at liz.johnson@ahschools.us. She is happy to work with you and find other opportunities that may be of more interest to you or work better with your schedule.
Volunteer Opportunities
Booster Club, Nonprofit and PTO Resources
It’s not too late (or too early) to register for our last free workshop of the season. We will focus on volunteer recruitment, board transition and retention as well as best practices for closing out the year. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn something new, refresh your knowledge and connect with other non-profit folk!
The workshop will be held in person at the Educational Service Center (ESC) in Anoka as well as virtually. Check out https://www.ahschools.us/ptoboosterworkshops for more information and registration.
Volunteers are an incredible asset to the students here at CRHS. Let’s make sure your impact is recorded and recognized. By filling out your volunteer application you are doing your part to keep our students safe while enriching their lives through extracurricular activities. You can access this year’s volunteer application here:
CRHS Volunteer Application and Criminal Record History Release Form or email your Volunteer Services Coordinator, Danielle Callahan at danielle.callahan@ahschools.us (or call (763) 506-7130)
CRHS Volleyball Tournament, April 6th
Student Council is hosting a CRHS volleyball tournament on April 6th @ 3:00pm-6:30pm, located in the CRHS Field House. Come watch students and staff battle it out in a bracket style tournament & witness which team earns the title of CRHS Volleyball Champions! Ticket price will be $3 (Sold at the door). Concessions will be available in the Field House.
CRHS Got Talent Show, May 25
CRHS Got Talent is back! We will be hosting our Talent Show on May 25th during 3rd hour. So teachers, make sure you sign up your classroom for this event because you will definitely not want to miss it!
We will also be opening up auditions back up to students and staff! If you want a second chance to showcase your talent come on down to the CRHS Auditorium on April 6th to audition!
CRHS 2022-2023 Yearbook
CRHS yearbooks are on sale now! Order your 2023 yearbook today through Jostens.com. Supplies are limited and once they sell out online, they are GONE.
Questions? Email Kari Berg at karilee.berg@ahschools.us
Senior "Ads for Grads" for the 2022-2023 Yearbook
Senior Parents-
Senior Year is an important milestone in many student's lives and it’s important to find creative ways to commemorate your student’s senior year, celebrate all of their hard work and accomplishments throughout their school career, and let them know that you love and are proud of them. A fun and easy way to do this is to place a recognition ad, or an “Ad for Grads”, in the 2022-2023 Yearbook.This is something that your student can look back on for years to come.
It is very simple to create an “Ad for Grad.” Just visit www.jostensadservice.com and you can begin creating your ad today using your favorite photos of your son or daughter and a personal message. You can choose any photos you like: a baby photo, a grade school photo, or just a photo of your student that you love--you can even take a picture of the photo you want to use and upload that image from your phone.
- Photos may be in color or black and white, and you pick the fonts and background.
- Ads are available in two different sizes, 1/4 page for $60 or 1/8 page for $40.
- The Ads for Grads deadline is February 17, 2023.
If you have any questions or need tips on how to upload the pictures you want to use, please email Kari Berg at karilee.berg@ahschools.us or check out this sheet from Jostens with FAQs.
HELP: Need 9th-11th grade parents/guardians for the Sr. All Night Party Com.
HELP: Need 9th-11th grade parents/guardians for the Senior All Night Party Committees. We are in need of several people to help plan the SANP. This is an event that is done at the end of Graduation and takes place at the Mermaid with entertainment and a safe place to be with friends for one more high school event. the major work is done before this thou and the time commitment is small.
Interested please contact Susie at susiek@usfamily.net for more information.
Coon Rapids High School Food Shelf and Compassion Fund
The School Social Work Department maintains a small food shelf to assist families in crisis. Food is organized in small care packages and sent home in backpacks and cinch sacks. We are particularly in need of nonperishable ready serve meals. Some examples include Canned Raviolios, Packaged Pasta Meals, Stew, Chili, Ramen Cups, Soup Cups, Mac and Cheese Cups, Compleats. Snacks such as granola bars, breakfast bars, and snack crackers would also be appreciated. The list of all our current needs can be found at this link: CRHS Food Shelf and Compassion Fund Needs.
The Cardinal Compassion Fund is used to help students and families facing crises. Checks can be written to AHEF with Carinal Compassion Fund identified as the recipient in the memo line. Checks can either be dropped off in the main office or mailed to CRHS, Attn: Lana Matthews, 2340 Northdale Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433.
If you have questions or if you and your family need assistance, please contact Emily Gustafson at 763-506-7153 emily.gustafson@ahschools.us
Universal School Meals Program to Begin in Fall 2023
On March 17, the Minnesota Legislature approved and the Governor signed a bill providing “Universal School Meals,” which means every student may receive free breakfast and lunch beginning in the fall of 2023. The program will cover one breakfast and one lunch for every student, however ala carte and other meal choices will not be covered.
Families will need to continue purchasing meals for their students for the remainder of this school year, as the new bill will not forgive or pay for any meal debt accrued before Sept. 2023.
If your family needs immediate assistance with free or reduced-priced meals, or access to other educational benefits (such as high school athletics and activity fees; ACT, SAT and AP fees; Comcast internet and SNAP membership discounts; Xcel Energy account assistance and more), please visit ahschools.us/childnutrition to complete an application.
The district’s child nutrition program is working to provide details for all families in preparation for the 2023-24 school year. Stay tuned to your back-to-school communications for specific details about this benefit for your family in the summer of 2023.
Cardinal Career and College Corner
Cardinal Career and College Corner
College and Military Rep visits during lunches in the Cafeteria (11:10-1:15)
- No visits this week
Scholarships for our Seniors!
1. Career Center Website for advice and scholarships - here
2. Complete FAFSA application - here
3. Page Grant Scholarship - here (Deadline April 1st)
4. Wallin 2 year pathway scholarship ($6,000) - here
5. Seniors - check your emails from me (Brenda Mitshulis)!
CRHS Senior Job Fair
What: Coon Rapids High School - Senior Job Fair
Where: CRHS Atrium - In Front of the Career Center
When: Tuesday, April 11th
Time: 8 - 10am (1st and 2nd hour)
Who: Senior Job Fair Companies
Note: Continuous working document - adding companies everyday
Scoir Webinar
We would like to encourage students and parents/guardians to join Scoir and Coalition member colleges on April 12th @ 8pm ET for a look behind the curtain into how various colleges read and evaluate applications.
The Anoka-Hennepin Career and College Specialists are excited to be hosting our first annual Spring Spectacular on Saturday, April 22 from 8:30-11:00 a.m. This event will highlight a variety of career and college planning options for students and families. The format will include a mix of scheduled sessions and open fair times. Click here for information on the schedule and session descriptions.
Anoka-Hennepin FAFSA and MN Dream Act Help Session
Now that you’ve submitted college applications, your next step is to apply for financial aid. You may be eligible to complete the FAFSA or the MN Dream Act. These applications can be completed online using your 2021 income taxes.
Attend our Financial Aid help event to get free, on-site professional assistance completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the MN Dream Act. Families will hear a brief presentation outlining eligibility, steps, and tips to complete their financial aid before having time to work and ask questions from expert volunteers. Registration is not required for this event.
Click here for:
* For FAFSA: Apply for your FSA ID number at least 3 days prior to attending at https://fsaid.ed.gov
ASVAB Career Exploration Program
Learn About Yourself Explore Careers Plan Your Future What is the ASVAB test? The ASVAB is a FREE career exploration program measuring your strengths, weaknesses, and potential for future success whether you choose to go to a 2-year college, 4-year college, technical school, or into a military career. When is the ASVAB test? Saturday, April 22 from 8 -11:00 a.m. at Blaine High School. What does it cost? Nothing! This is a free program and you will get your results the following week! How do I register? This is for current Anoka-Hennepin students only. Please sign up in the College and Career Center at your school by Thursday, April 13.
Girls in Aviation
Girls in Aviation, that provides an excellent introduction to aviation. This year’s event is on Saturday, September 23, 2023. Life Link III has an exhibit there, as well as one of our helicopters.
CRHS College and Career Center Website - There are a lot of students asking about college, military, trades and workforce. Check out my website! There are a lot of instructions on "how to"....send/request transcripts, letters of recs, write essays, scholarship opportunities, resumes, etc! Go to the CRHS homepage, hover over Support, click on Career Center - here
This e-newsletter is published by Coon Rapids High School. Questions, comments or concerns about the school e-newsletter? Contact us.