GRIZZ-O-GRAM
June 5th, 2020 SUMMER IS HERE Edition
Ashland High School-- Oregon
Instagram: @ashlandhighschool
Facebook: Ashland High School - Ashland, OR
Past Grizz-O-Grams https://www.smore.com/u/ahs
Email: AHSOffice@ashland.k12.or.us
Website: http://ashland.k12.or.us
Location: 201 South Mountain Avenue, Ashland, OR 97520, USA
Phone: 541 482 8771
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AHS.Ashland.OR/
This week's Grizz...
- Principal's Update
- Student Body Election Results
- Class of 2020 Graduation Parade Photos
- Class of 2020 Mural
- Fresh Start Update
- Class of 2020 Scholarship Awards!
- Yearbook Information
- Zoom Play from AHS Theatre Class
- And More!
Principal's Update
Grizzly Parents, Guardians Students, Future Students and Community Members –
My goodness, what an unusual year to say the least. That said, I cannot think of a better place to be than with AHS staff, students and families during these times. It has been an honor and a joy to join you as interim principal this year.
This is the last Grizz-O-Gram of the 2019-2020 school year. A few remaining items to share before you head into summer and what I hope for each of us is a time to rest, reflect and cherish that which you hold dear.
Members of the Class of 2020
Thank you all for coming out and making our graduation parade celebration such a big success! We’ve heard lots of great feedback from students, parents, staff, and the community. For photos of the parade, click here.
Although it certainly was a unique way to have a commencement, we have decided that this event provided appropriate closure and that our Seniors are now ready to launch into post-high school life.
We had previously asked you to “save the date” of July 10th for another potential commencement ceremony but are no longer planning on that for a variety of reasons.
We are still waiting for our yearbooks to arrive because the publishers are backed up due to COVID-19. Once we receive them, we will designate dates and times for our graduates to come to school for a drive through opportunity near the end of June to pick up their diploma, yearbook, and any other items they may have left behind. We will keep you posted on further information related to that event.
We are so proud of each member of the class of 2020. We wish you joy in all of your future pursuits.
And stay connected. Once a Grizzly, always and forever a Grizzly.
Yearbooks
Yearbooks for students in grades 9, 10 and 11 will be distributed in the fall.
Students in Grades 9, 10 and 11: Incomplete Grades and Credit Retrieval
Many of you have worked very hard to complete courses through distance learning this spring and received a Pass (P) grade in most or all of your classes.
For some of you, distance learning was a struggle. You will still have an opportunity to complete missing work and earn credits to stay on-track for graduation.
In the next coming weeks, we will send you via email and regular mail a Credit Earning Assurance Plan (CEAP), which details how to earn any credits you were not able to complete.
Microsoft Teams will remain available over the summer and any work you submit will be graded when teachers return in the fall.
Summer Communications and Next Fall
The district committee on Schooling Through COVID (STC) is hard at work through June to develop contingencies on what school may look like in the fall including options for:
- Reopening campus
- A hybrid of distance-learning and campus learning
- Improved distance learning and supports
You will receive regular email communications as we learn more from our work and from the state. One thing is certain – AHS will be here for you and with you as we navigate the pandemic moving forward.
Three Gifts of Unity and Action
I recently received three gifts.
The first gift was an email from a recent graduate that shared her experience of race in Ashland and at Ashland High School. The gift is to know that we must double down on our efforts to end racism and shape a better world. We must begin this work first in our hearts and homes, then in our school and community. To that student and others that have shared their experiences, I say thank you. We must be better, we must do better.
My heart aches for the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the countless precious lives that have been taken due to the injustices of systemic racism.
AHS condemns racism in every form. As an educational institution, we must take steps to eradicate bias and hate. Our greatest tools are education and each other.
Black lives matter.
But our systems and our country have shown and continue to follow a narrative contrary. We have failed to uplift, protect and celebrate our Black, Indigenous, and communities of color. As a nation and world, it is time to join in our shared humanity in order to change and heal. We must do better.
Real education begins with asking questions. At Ashland High School, we remain committed to honest dialog, open hearts, listening, learning and acting to serve each of our students and families. Together, we can make a better world. To our families that experience racism, we see you, we hear you and we stand with you.
The second gift was from another recent graduate and her friends. They shared their experiences with sexual assault and harassment while attending high school. They shared the impact it had, and continues to have on their lives learning, their sense of self, and community. Their hope was to gather data from peers to inform continued dialogue on how to continue to build a safe, caring community in Ashland and at Ashland High School. Unfortunately their work was cut short due to the closure. The knowledge of the continued need and importance of this work is a great gift, and one we are obligated to act upon.
A third gift was communication from a transgender student sharing his experiences in our school and some impacts in the LGBTQ+ community. He reminded me of the work we need to do as individuals and as a system on celebrating and protecting diversity, and eliminating bias.
To each of these brave students that shared these gifts, thank you.
A Few Final Notes
I offer a profound and heartfelt thanks to our retirees this year. Each has made an incredible impact on our school community and the lives of generations of students. Our hearts have no rank order for these exceptional educators, so I list them alphabetically:
- Laura Davidson, Health and Fiber Arts
- Jim Hartman, Science
- Kate Kennedy, Science
- Laura Marshall, Education Support
- Doug Shipley, Special Education
I also wish to congratulate Jay Preskenis. Jay has accepted the position of Principal at Oak Grove Elementary for next year. While we grieve the diminishing sails of a great ship moving towards the horizon, we take heart in knowing those sails are coming into view in a new land.
As we head into summer, stay healthy, stay happy and stick together. Thank you for being a part of the Grizzly community.
Samuel
Samuel Bogdanove
Interim Principal
Ashland High School
Pronouns: He, Him, His
Student Body Election Results!!!
Dear Ashland High School Community,
Our student body elections were held online this week. We have been so impressed with all of our candidates’ ideas for our schools running great positive campaigning. We were also happy that over 200 students voted on the first day of our all online election. In these challenging times we can be proud to have these students representing us next year:
Your 2020-2021 Student Body Officers:
Ashland Student Body (ASB) Co-Presidents: Michael Holden and Noah Aguilar
ASB Vice President: Abigail McCleary
ASB Secretary: McKenzie Haden
ASB Treasurer: Anya Moore
Your 2020-2021 Class Officers:
Sophomore Class Co-Presidents: Asia Lieberman and Zahara Palma Brown
Junior Class Co-Presidents: Scarlet Poague and Willow Williams
Senior Class President: Chase Hamik
We are excited to have such a great team of dedicated students joining us in our Student Leadership class for 2020-2021. We would like to take this opportunity to also welcome Peregrin Streeper as a new addition to our Leadership team!
Class of 2020 Graduation Parade Photos!
You can find photos from the graduation parade here:
2020 Ashland High School Graduation
Thanks so all who participated, cheered along the sidewalks, and made this possible!
Big Thank You to:
City of Ashland
Ashland Police Department
Cari Baker Photography
Lithia Motors for donating car decals
AHS Senior Grad Committee
Library Books & Textbook Drop Box
Class of 2020 Mural!
Class of 2020 Mural completed by National Art Honors Society senior members! Thanks to our artists, Sierrah Kelly (NAHS President), Reuben Fellman Charlotte Julian, Aubrey Reynolds, Zea M.W. and Logan Knouse! It is hanging up in the quad! Take a walk and check it out! One of the best ones yet. See if you can pick out the easter eggs hidden in the image. Winner gets a chocolate bar!
Fresh Start Update
Due to COVID-19 and the state's restrictions on large gatherings, Fresh Start will be looking different this year. Jake and Nora are working with the school district and other AHS teachers to come up with a plan that will allow us to hold Fresh Start in some capacity this summer. We do not currently know what that may look like, but please know we are working hard to make something happen. Communication will be sent out via email to incoming 9th grade families and rising juniors and seniors who applied to be counselors in the coming weeks. We hope to utilize August 13th-24th for some sort of Fresh Start activities. Thank you for your patience!
Class of 2020 Scholarship Awards!
YEARBOOKS INFORMATION
When can 9th-11th Graders pick up their 2019-2020 Yearbook?
9th-11th Graders will receive their Yearbooks when school returns in the Fall.
When can seniors pick up their 2019-2020 Yearbooks?
Senior Grad Committee is planning a drive through pick up for Yearbooks in late June. More info to come soon!
Want to order a yearbook?
Login to PowerSchool and click on the InTouch button. Pay the Yearbook fee. Email Kris.Prusko@ashland.k12.or.us and let him know you want one.
Can’t afford the cost? Let Kris know.
Can help purchase a yearbook for another? Please email Kris.
The Show Must Go On! AHS Theater does Zoom Play
AHS Senior College and Career Pathways Survey and Final Transcript Request
If they haven’t already, all seniors should complete the AHS Senior College & Career Pathways Survey and Final Transcript Request. This is how we determine where to send their final transcript if they are planning to attend a college or professional training program. The survey will take less than two minutes! If a student’s plans change after completing the survey, they can contact Jennifer.Marsden@ashland.k12.or.us with an update. Final transcripts will be sent out in early June.
Summer Lunch Program for ASD
We will be continuing meal service through June, July and August this year. We will not have home deliveries or park drop points at this time.
Meals can be picked up at Ashland Middle School cafeteria window or Helman Elementary school each week from 11:00am to 1:00pm. All meals will be free for any children age 0-18. Adults may purchase a meal for $3.00 each. Families may also pick up a free produce box from Fry Family Farm and Rogue Valley Farm to School each Thursday, same time and locations.
Any changes to our pick up sites or meal deliveries will be posted on our school district web page or Ashland Schools Facebook Page.
Questions or concerns, please email:
nutritionservices@ashland.k12.or.us
or call 541-482-2811 x1116
Counseling Office
Counselors Are Here To Help
Counselors are here to help your students succeed. (See message below for updated contact information due to COVID-19).
Keri Phipps (All Freshmen) Keri.Phipps@ashland.k12.or.us
Diane Berry (Last Names A-He) Diane.Berry@ashland.k12.or.us
Kalli Walker (Last Names Hi-Me) Kalli.Walker@ashland.k12.or.us
Jeff Roscher (Last Names Mi-Z) Jeffrey.Roscher@ashland.k12.or.us
Counseling Department Staff Contact Information:
Keri Phipps
9th Grade
541-631-8271
Diane Berry
10th - 12th, A-He
541- 625-9397
Kalli Walker
10th - 12th, Hi-Me
Kalli.walker@ashland.k12.or.us
541- 292--0390
Jeff Roscher
10th-12th, Mi-Z
jeffrey.roscher@ashland.k12.or.us
541-625-3763
Jen Marsden
Career and College Specialist
Jennifer.marsden@ashland.k12.or.us
541-631-8327
Karyn Barats
Scholarship Coordinator
karyn.barats@ashland.k12.or.us
Counselors are available for video or phone appointments during Counseling Department through Teams.
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:00-12:00 & 1:00-3:00
Please be aware that School Counselors, Jen Marsden, and Karyn Barats do not have access to their office phones and are unable to return missed calls at this time.
AHS Counseling Department
The AHS Counseling Department is committed to providing you with the same kind of support and guidance that we would if we were meeting on campus. We are new to this online format and are working hard to make sure that you receive quality school counseling services in this virtual environment.
We will hold office hours for appointments Monday-Friday 10:00-12:00 and 1:00-3:00. You can make appointments by contacting us through email or by phone. We will ask you to choose a phone or video meeting. Once we have agreed on a time and day, we will send you an invitation to our appointment through our Teams Calendar.
We want to emphasize that appointments are available for routine concerns, and should not be used for mental health emergencies. If you need immediate mental health support or crisis counseling, DO NOT wait to schedule an appointment with one of us. Instead, contact:
- Jackson County Mental Health: 541-774-8201
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
- staffed with trained professionals 24/7
- provides support for people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis
We want you to visit the AHS Counseling, Career and College Support Team page regularly. We will be posting important new guidelines and decisions regarding academic credits, graduation criteria, and college admissions. We will also keep a running list of your questions and concerns and do our best to provide answers or refer you to the appropriate information sites.
Although we will make every effort to protect your privacy, we cannot guarantee confidentiality in an online environment. If we are meeting through video, we encourage you to be thoughtful about your surroundings.
We will respond to questions, concerns, emails, as soon as we are able. Thank you in advance for your patience as we move through this together. As we all work to stay connected, we also encourage you to reach out to your teachers and classmates for support.
AHS College and Career Support
As always, Jen Marsden, our College and Career Specialist, is available to help you navigate the college admissions and financial aid process. We know many of you have questions about how to proceed, especially in light of the many uncertainties we are all facing. Rest assured that colleges are adjusting their expectations and deadlines along with the rest of the world. We are here to support you through your planning and decision-making process, so please reach out with your questions and concerns.
College & Career Center Updates for Seniors
AHS Senior College and Career Pathways Survey and Final Transcript Request
If they haven’t already, all seniors should complete the AHS Senior College & Career Pathways Survey and Final Transcript Request. This is how we determine where to send their final transcript if they are planning to attend a college or professional training program. The survey will take less than two minutes! If a student’s plans change after completing the survey, they can contact Jennifer.Marsden@ashland.k12.or.us with an update. Final transcripts will be sent out after May 29th.
College & Career Center Updates for Juniors
The College Application Essay Writing Workshops
Reassurance for Juniors: An Open Letter from a College Dean of Admissions
This article highlights a letter from a Dean of Admissions to juniors, offering them (and their families) a thoughtful and compassionate perspective on the college admissions process in the time of Covid-19.
AHS College Handbook
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Attention Seniors: You can find a complete listing of Local, OSAC and Current Scholarships & Opportunities on the AHS website: www.ashland.k12.or.us/scholarships.
Volunteer Opportunities - Earn Community Service Hours
Ashland Parks and Recreation
The Ashland Parks and Recreation WinterSpring PlayGuide is out and have many opportunities for kids and families, all of which are listed here: ashland.or.us/ASDkids.
Check it out!
School Websites
Ashland School District Website
Parent and Student PowerSchool Portal
Check schedules, grades and pay fees via the PowerSchool website and app:
Ashland High School Website
Sports Physicals
Physicals may be scheduled at the on-campus health center or provided by your personal physician. 541 482 8771 x2247 Lori.Vieu@ashland.k12.or.us
Athletic Registration
Athletics Website
Attendance Policy
2019-2020 Course Guide
Application for Free Lunch Program
https://family.titank12.com/HV4XN5
If you do not know your student's ID number you can leave it blank.
Bus Schedule
ASD Transportation 541 482 3174
Stacey.Delgado@ashland.k12.or.us
Click here to see bus routes and times:
https://www.ashland.k12.or.us/SIB/files/2019-2020%20WEB%20ROUTES.pdf
Students riding a bus to any location other than their designated bus stop must have parental permission and obtain a BUS PASS from the front office.
Student Parking
Informational Links
Ashland High School Campus Map
All school facilities are closed until further notice.
By Executive Order of Governor Kate Brown: “Public schools shall limit school facility operations only to essential functions through June 30, 2020, unless that period is extended or terminated earlier by the Governor.”
Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) Current Policy: “During this moratorium-like cancellation period, there shall be no high school facility usage.”
We are very sorry and look forward to a time in the future when we can re-open our campus to our community.
STAY HOME/SAVE LIVES!