It is already December and this is a very busy time of year. This means Hockey, Cross-Country Skiing and Wrestling are going full swing while Basketball and Basketball Cheerleading are just getting started. Support all the HHS students in the Nutcracker, our DDF fundraiser, and the Choir and Band performances and fundraisers. Other events that are happening in our building include Share the Spirit and the Paul Banks, HMS and West Homer holiday performances.

Since it is December, it also means we have about 3 weeks left of the first semester. Make sure your student is staying up with their work so they can get credit at the semester. It also means semester exams are coming. I have provided an exam schedule below.

With all of these exciting events, sports, and activities, it is easy for students to get distracted. As a parent, make sure you are keeping track of your child's grades through PowerSchool so they don't lose sight of the bigger picture. We want every student to be able to enjoy these events and activities, but academics are a priority. We want your child to learn, grow and graduate on time.

As always, I would love to hear from you. If you have ideas or suggestions, please drop by. If you can't make it in you can call me at 907-235-4600 or e-mail me at dwaclawski@kpbsd.k12.ak.us.

Sincerely,

Douglas Waclawski

Principal

Semester II Schedules

When we return from Winter Break January 8th, we will begin a new semester. Students may view their spring term “S2” schedules now on PowerSchool by going to Scheduling/My Schedule/Matrix View. Contact the counseling office with questions (Lin Hampson 11th and 12th grades; Paul Story 9th and 10th). (See picture above.)

Sophomore Counseling

2nd semester of 10th grade is an excellent time to review high school progress and begin post-secondary planning in earnest. Sophomores and their parents are invited to make 20-minute appointments with Paul Story in January or February to discuss how to start preparing for graduation and for their career pathway. Call 235-4685 or email pstory@kpbsd.org to schedule a time.

PSAT 10

The PSAT 10 assessment (https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10) is designed for university-bound sophomores and is the best tool to prepare for the National Merit Scholarship competition in 11th grade and, subsequently, the real SAT. The test will be held at the Kachemak Bay Campus Wednesday, February 28, 2018. Students miss 2nd and 3rd periods. To sign up, bring $20 to the counseling office. Assistance is available if the fee is a hardship.

AVTEC Maritime Training in Homer

The Maritime Transportation Industry in Alaska has some excellent career opportunities for young people who want to make a living on the water. Interested high school students 16 or older can earn their initial certifications in Homer, tuition-free! AVTEC will be offering their Basic Training course at Homer High February 7, 8 and 9. Students must be able to swim and must have a sincere interest in attaining employment in the field after graduation. Come to the counseling office for more information and to pay the $35 registration fee.

High School Basic Training (BT)
Students will earn 4 USCG Coast Guard Certifications upon successful completion of this training and the USCG BT Endorsement that is a required and HIGHLY valued credential for entry level maritime industry employment. This course also satisfies part 1 of the three part AMAP** Tier 1* training requirements for students whom might be interested in applying for this apprenticeship after they graduate from HS and turn 18.
https://avtec.edu/HSBT

ACT Test Date

· Dec. 9

· Regular registration deadline Nov. 3

· Late registration for additional fee Nov. 4-17

SAT Test Date

· Dec. 2

· Regular registration deadline Nov. 3

· Late registration for additional fee Nov. 3-21

The FAFSA is open for the 2018-19 school year. Some money is first come, first serve. www.fafsa.ed.gov