ARCHIVED JAUARY 2024
Small School...Big Family
January 26, 2024
Upcoming Events
1/26 - Quarter Two Report Cards Issued through PowerSchool
2/2 - Class of 2025 Movie Night fundraiser 6-8pm
2/3 - Class of 2025 Chipotle fundraiser 5-9pm
2/8 - College Planning & Admissions Panel Night 6pm (Millis Public Library)
2/9 - Millis Music "Cabaret" Night - 7pm (MHS Cafe)
2/12 - Samaritans Presentations for Sophomores and Juniors
2/19-23 - February Vacation Week
3/1 - Comedy Cancels Cancer Fundraiser for Aedan Wetherbee 8pm (MHS Auditorium)
3/11 - No School (Teacher Professional Development Day)
Report Cards are Live in PowerSchool
On Friday, January 26, second quarter report cards were issued through PowerSchool. Both students and parents should access PowerSchool to view report cards. If for some reason you require a paper copy of the report card, please contact the main office and we will be happy to get a copy to you. Here are instructions on how to access your student's report card. There are two different ways for you to access:
(1) You should have received an email on Friday January 26, that contained a link to access the report card.
- Check your spam if you don't see it.
- If you have not updated your contact information with the school, there is a possibility the email may have been sent to an old email.
(2) To view reports in the parent portal on Powerschool, please sign in to PowerSchool.
- Here is the link https://millisschools.powerschool.com/public/
- Navigate to "student reports" located on the left sidebar
- You will be able to view and print all published reports - just click the report name to open
If you are unable to access your students Report Card using these steps, please reach out to Chad Liberty cliberty@millisschools.org.
College Planning & Admissions Panel Night for Junior Students and Parents- February 8th
The School Counseling Office is excited to announce that our College Planning & Admissions Panel Night for junior students and parents will be held on Thursday, February 8th, starting at 6:00 pm at the Millis Public Library in the Roche Bros Room.
The school counselors will begin the night with a brief presentation on the college planning process followed by a college admissions panel presentation. Representatives from Boston College, Suffolk University, UMass Amherst, and Massachusetts Bay Community College are expected to be on hand to discuss the college admissions process and take questions from parents and students.
For those of you unable to make it, we will provide a recording of the night in the School Counseling area of the Millis High School website following the event: (hs.millisps.org/for_students/counseling).
This promises to be a great night you don’t want to miss, where both parents and students will take away a host of useful information as our juniors begin the college process. Please contact the School Counseling Office at 508-376-7010 with any questions. We look forward to seeing you all on February 8th!
Sincerely,
Riley Dunn & Nicole Moore
Millis High School Counseling Department
STEAM Scholars Field Trip
The STEAM Scholars group visited the Natick Soldier Systems Center on Monday. The students got to see the Textile Equipment Prototyping Shop where parachutes and other soldier equipment is designed. Students learned about the math that goes into designing a parachute along with some history. They then went to the Warfighter Cafe and learned how the packaging for Soldier food is made. They got to see how an injection molding machine works and about the variety of majors that exist for specific research and development aspects. They then got to see how cold equipment is designed for soldiers. This included thermo boots and a sleeping bag for a soldier with hypothermia. They got to see how 3D printers are used for prototypes and got to hold a bunch of prototypes that the Army has designed. Lastly, they got to see how load bearing equipment is made and the many inventions that have been made in that department. It was an excellent trip, and one we hope becomes a yearly tradition.
Cornhole Tournament to Raise Money for Sophomore Aedan Wetherbee
This morning, before everyone headed out for the weekend following our half day, we held a charity corn hole tournament to benefit sophomore Aedan Wetherbee. Students came down from study halls, or with permission from their teachers, to compete in two separate brackets - one started at 8:15 and the other started at 9:05. Staff came down to take part in the event as well - some playing with their own children who attend MHS. The winners from each bracket played at 10:10 for the championship, bragging rights, and the opportunity to take home a set of custom corn hole boards. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, the Millis Police and Fire Departments, Medway Lumber, and a host of other donors, the tournament raised nearly $3000 to support Aedan and his family in his battle with cancer. Thank you to everyone who made the tournament today an incredible success, and especially to Mr. Kendrick for all his hard work in organizing and putting this entire tournament together. This was one of those days that reminds you again what a special place Millis High School is, and how our school community always comes together to support one another when needed the most. We're looking forward to having Aedan as a part of our tournament next year, after he defeats cancer!
STEAM Scholar applications are open
The STEAM Scholar Application for members of the Class of 2026 is now open. The STEAM Scholars program is designed to provide Millis students with programming that allows them to focus their studies on the STEAM Disciplines. Review this presentation for more information including the mission of the program and program requirements. Interested students should enroll in the STEAM Scholar Application Google Classroom and complete the application materials by Friday, February 16, at 4:00pm. Questions can be directed to Ms. Stephanie Copice at scopice@millisschools.org, subject line “STEAM Scholars”.
Global Scholars 21st Century Program apps now open
The application is now open for members of the Class of 2026 to apply to the Global Scholars 21st Century Program (GS21) at Millis High School. The goal of the Global Scholars Program is to help promote global competence, a key twenty-first century skill. Through interdisciplinary academic study, community service and international travel, participants will increase their global awareness, heighten their appreciation of diversity, and enlarge their capacity to work and contribute in an increasingly interconnected world. Review this presentation for more information including the mission of the program and program requirements. Interested students should enroll in the Global Scholars Google Classroom, and compete the application materials by Friday, February 16, at 4:00pm. Questions can be directed to either Mr. Fallon at dfallon@millisschools.org, Mrs. Ames at sames@millisschools.org, or Ms. Ziemba at mziemba@millisschools.org.
Creative Writing - Graphic Novels
The Creative Writing elective students created graphic novels as a final project for Quarter 2. They were tasked to create their own storyline or adapt another plot. Emelia Leussis, a member of the class, is an extremely talented artist and writer. This project below encapsulates her skills.
Metrowest Youth in Philanthropy Program (YIP)
Senior, Wilson Copice, graduated from the MetroWest Youth in Philanthropy Program (YIP) on Thursday January 25. The program serves to immerse grade 9-12 students in the philanthropic process through an intensive 20-week program which includes the role of nonprofits, the grant writing and reading process, site visits, and the actual awarding of grants. Participants work in regional teams to determine their granting priorities and then award two grants of $5,000.00 each to worthy non profits.
Wilson was part of the Natick Cohort who ultimately chose to award their grants to the Children's Room in Acton , an organization that helps families with the grieving process, and Dignity Matters which supports women by providing free menstrual care products, underwear and bras to over 170 Massachusetts nonprofits. Wilson learned of this program from Millis resident Caroline Murphy who is the Director of Programs and Donor Services for the YIP parent program, Community Foundation of MetroWest. For folks wishing to get involved you can reach out via their website: https://www.communityfoundationmw.org/.
Class of 2025 Fundraiser
Please help support the Millis High School Class of 2025 by eating at Chipotle on February 3rd from 5:00-9:00 PM in Medway! Show the cashier a digital or paper flyer prior to paying OR order online and pick up Chipotle by using the Promo Code LE3RGD2 on the Chipotle app or website.
Class of 2025 Movie Night Fundraiser
The Millis Class of 2025 is excited to host a movie night on Friday, February 2nd! This night will be hosted by the Class of 2025 student council in the Clyde Brown cafeteria from 6-8 PM for children in kindergarten to 5th grade. Concessions will be sold ($1-$2 each) and adult supervision will be provided. Cash and venmo will be accepted, and please email Rachel Hayden (rhayden@millisschools.org) with any questions! Sign up here.
2023-24 MCAS Schedule & Tutoring
As we move into the second half of the school year, we continue to prepare our students for this year's MCAS Exams, and want to update you on the upcoming schedule. Students in the Class of 2026 (sophomores) will be taking MCAS exams in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math this year, while students in the Class of 2027 (freshmen) will be taking the MCAS Biology Exam. These exams, sponsored by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), are part of the competency determination required for students to graduate from Millis High School. All exams will be computer-based this year.
In addition to preparing our students in the classroom, we have been identifying students in need of extra tutoring support, and recently mailed home letters containing contracts for tutoring. MCAS English Language Arts tutoring will began in Flex Block this past week, and MCAS Math tutoring will be starting at the beginning of February. If you receive one of these letters and would like your child to take part in the tutoring support (which we strongly encourage), please return the contract to the main high school office as soon as possible. The schedule for MCAS Exams at MHS is as follows:
English Language Arts (Grade 10) - March 26 & 27
Math (Grade 10) - May 21 & 22
Biology (Grade 9) - June 4 & 5
Samaritans Presentations
The teen years are marked by a roller coaster of emotions-difficult for teens, their parents and educators. It is easy to misread depression as normal adolescent turmoil; however, depression (among the most common forms of mental illnesses) appears to be occurring at a much earlier age, and the past decade has seen teen suicide rates double. The pandemic certainly complicated things even more. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people, ages 10-24. Youth can feel immense pressure from harassment on social media, difficult coursework, unhealthy friendships and relationships, bullying, and many other stressors. Unfortunately, many young people struggle to reach out for help, in part because of the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness.
To proactively address this issue, Millis High School is offering a youth workshop during the school day delivered by the Samaritans on February 12th, for sophomores and juniors. Samaritans has provided lifesaving suicide prevention services in Massachusetts for 48 years. Their vision is to have a world without suicide. The core values of the Samaritans, in which they base their programming are courage, hope, integrity, belonging, befriending, equity, and inclusion. Their youth workshops aim to help students understand their emotions and feel less alone. Students discuss suicide myths, prevention strategies, self-care and coping, identifying trusted adults, and what to do when they or a friend needs help.
Our goals in participating in this program are straightforward:
To help our students understand that depression is a treatable illness, and help them assess whether or not they may have symptoms consistent with depression
To explain that suicide is a preventable tragedy that often occurs as a result of untreated depression
To provide students training in how to identify serious depression and potential suicidality in a friend
To impress upon teens that they can help themselves or a friend by taking the simple step of talking to a responsible adult about their concerns
At the end of the workshop, all students will be asked by Millis High School counseling staff to complete a brief screener where they indicate whether or not they are currently struggling with depressed feelings and if they would like to talk with a counselor about a concern they have for either themselves or a friend.
If you DO NOT wish to have your child participate in either the presentation, the screener, or both, please email either Erin Sullivan, esullivan@millisschools.org, Riley Dunn rdunn@millisschools.org, or Nicole Moore nmoore@millisschools.org. If we do not hear from you, we will assume that your child has your permission to participate.
Say Something Anonymous Reporting System
Dear Millis Community Members,
As a school district, we are committed to creating and sustaining a comprehensive, coordinated effort to improve the overall safety and well-being of our students, educators, administrators, and the community at large.
To do this, we believe this must involve community-wide programs and initiatives involving parents, teachers, administrators, local law enforcement, mental health and wellness professionals, and elected officials to take meaningful action to protect our students.
I am happy to announce the upcoming district-wide launch of the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System (SS-ARS). We are expecting to go live with this program on February 2, when our students will be trained on how to use the system. This program teaches students, teachers, and administrators how to recognize warning signals and threats, on social media, in school, or in their community, of individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and Say Something to a trusted adult OR use its anonymous reporting system. Specifically, the program educates students and adult participants to:
- Recognize the signs and threats of at-risk behaviors
- Take every sign and signal seriously and act quickly to get help by talking to a trusted adult, OR
- Report it anonymously to the SS-ARS 24/7/365 Crisis Center via a mobile app, website, or telephone hotline
- Respond to and manage the submitted tips using a tip management system overseen by a designated school team
- Sustain the curriculum and awareness via student clubs, in-school activities and call-to-action weeks
Our students are often aware of the problems their peers are facing, so we must empower them to recognize the danger signs and give them the tools to help each other with the assistance of trained and caring adults. As you know, most conversations are taking place on social media, therefore it is critical that we teach our students to look out for one another as these digital conversations are taking place. SS-ARS teaches them what to look for in text, video and photos while empowering them to act quickly to help a fellow student. The program also teaches students to recognize at-risk behaviors in friends and classmates at school and in their local community.
The SS-ARS program is provided by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a nation-wide non-profit organization. SHP’s programs are in 50 states – with 14,000+ schools and over 12 million students and adults trained. They have a track record, reputation, and knowledge of how to work effectively with kids, parents, and teachers to improve school safety and culture. The program is age-appropriate and research-based. To date, SS-ARS and other SHP prevention programs have helped stop multiple school shootings, suicides, and gun threats, The program has reduced bullying and cyberbullying, intervened upon cutting, drug use, and other violent acts. We know this program will do the same for our district.
To learn more about the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System click here. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call, or email me directly at mawdycki@millisschools.org.
Sincerely,
Mark Awdycki
Principal
MPY Announces New Parenting Solutions Library
Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth (MPY) is pleased to announce its new, free MPY Parenting Solutions Library. To date, over 2,200 videos have been borrowed. MPY is offering the MPY Parenting Solutions Library in partnership with Peace At Home Parenting Solutions, a non-profit located in Mansfield, Connecticut. Peace At Home Parenting Solutions is a dynamic hub of trusted knowledge and compassionate support that inspires parents to create positive change for their children, their families and themselves. Through this new partnership, MPY is pleased to offer proven resources to help students’ families thrive.
Peace At Home Parenting Solutions specializes in empowering parents with evidence-based strategies to foster nurturing connections that safeguard their children's mental well-being. When parents grasp the interconnection between the brain, body, and behavior, they experience reduced stress levels, resulting in less stress for their children.
The Peace At Home Parenting Solutions team, comprised of experts with advanced degrees, stays abreast of the latest advancements in child development. With more than 30 specialists focused on child and adolescent development, including specific issues such as difficulties in school, mental health challenges, neurodiversity, LGBTQ+ identity formation, handling racism, navigating grief, and other matters parents and our partners identify. These experts present easy-to-use strategies for long-lasting change.
Parents can watch or just listen to experts who get right to the point solving big and small challenges. The 24 library presentations focus on the topics below. Each presentation includes a 10-minute videos and handouts.
· Inspire School Success for Elementary, Middle and High School Students
· Parenting Principles for Progress Not Perfection
· Mental Health Knowledge and Skills
· Support Your Anxious Child Library
· ADHD and Autism: How to Help Your Child Thrive
The Home Parenting Library may easily be accessed using the link on MPY’s home page (www.mpyinc.org). No log in or passcode is needed. Please contact MPY Executive Director Margie Daniels at margie@mpyinc.org with questions.
Medfield Offers Parent Connection Groups
The Medfield SEPAC is offering Parent Connection Groups in response to feedback in meetings and after-meeting surveys that parents and caregivers would like to connect with others whose loved ones share a diagnosis. A SEPAC parent volunteer will coordinate each, focusing on a different diagnosis. Our parent volunteers are not professional facilitators or therapists so it’s important to note that these are not facilitated support groups, simply a gathering of parents sharing their own experiences. These informal groups will connect parents and caregivers of children of all ages with the specific diagnosis to share experiences and resources.
Our Parent Connection Group, focusing on Down Syndrome, will hold its meetings from the third Thursday of the month until May 2024 (1/18, 2/15, 3/21, 4/18, 5/16). These meetings are in person from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Medfield Public Library. If you want to join this group, please get in touch with Michelle, this group's parent volunteer, at mebrien@gmail.com.
We are forming groups for the following diagnoses: ADHD (met 1/8 will meet monthly), Dyslexia + LBLD, Autism Spectrum (1st meeting planning underway), and Mental Health. But we need YOU! There are no groups without your participation. If you want to join one of these groups, please email sepac@email.medfield.net to connect with our parent volunteers for more information.
Host a Spanish Classroom Assistant
Would you enjoy sharing your home with our incoming Spanish Consular Classroom Assistant beginning in late August?
Each year, the Spanish government makes it possible for Millis to host a language and cultural assistant through their international exchange program.
The consular assistant arrives in late August and stays until the end of the school year, sharing the Spanish language and culture with students in our immersion and non-immersion classes on the elementary and secondary level while also learning about the culture of the United States through both the classroom and homestay experiences. Please let us know if you are interested! If you have a preference of gender, we may be able to accommodate that.
A number of Millis families have shared their homes with consular assistants over the past decade; all that is required is a private bedroom for the student, breakfast and dinner, and wireless access. The family would also be responsible for picking up the student at Logan Airport in late August.The homestay is designed as a cultural exchange experience and does not include childcare or household responsibilities.
The district provides bus transportation to school each day and lunch in one of our cafeterias. Students hold medical insurance and have had a full series of vaccinations. All assistants are non-smoking. They are eager to share their language and culture with a family!
Please contact the district's main office at 508-376-7000 X 619 if you would be interested in hosting this coming school year.
Robert Mullaney, Superintendent
SAVE THE DATE
They say laughter is the best medicine.
Join us as the Millis community comes together to support Aedan Wetherbee in his ongoing fight against Cancer. This professionally planned, three-person comedy show offers 90 minutes of laughs and fun. All funds raised through the event will be used for the following:
1. To assist with Aedan’s medical bills;
2. To assist with the costs of keeping Aedan engaged and entertained during his upcoming bone marrow transplant and yearlong quarantine.
Aedan’s Story: Aedan Wetherbee is a courageous 15-year-old from Millis, MA who is battling CNS primary, ALK+ Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL). ALCL is a rare form of brain cancer - rare due to Aedan’s young age and the cancer’s location in his brain. Since June 2023 Aedan has been receiving treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital’s Pediatric Oncology Department. Despite the scary and emotional rollercoaster of treatment which has included intense chemotherapy, stem cell retrieval, and cancer spreading in his body Aedan has continued to impress his medical team, family, and friends with his unbelievably positive attitude. In November Aedan received the wonderful news that he is in full remission. He continues receiving chemotherapy as his medical team searches for a bone marrow donor. Once he receives his bone marrow transplant Aedan will spend 8-10 weeks inpatient at Boston Children’s Hospital and 1 year in quarantine at home. Secure donations can be made through Aedan’s GoFundMe page which can be found here:
~ Happening Around Millis ~
January 19, 2024
Scavenger Hunt
During Advisory period today, students took part in a fun Scavenger Hunt. Everyone seemed to have a great time roaming the school searching for answers to questions about school life, the building, its functions, and in finding the solutions to some fun riddles. Advisory groups from different grades teamed up for what turned out to be a great team building exercise for our students and staff! Thanks to Mrs. Graham, Ms. Copice and Mr. Carter for putting together this great activity. Enjoy some pictures from the hunt below.
MHS Senior in Emerging Young Artists and Designers Juried Exhibition
Congratulations to senior, Lucian Hastings, for being selected to the highly competitive Emerging Young Artists and Designers Juried Exhibition hosted by the College of Visual and Performing Arts at UMass Dartmouth.
Over 800 high school students from across New England submitted artwork for consideration. Lucian’s piece was one of 199 selected for the show.
The exhibition goes live on Friday, January 26 at
www.umassd.edu/cvpa/explore/emerging-young-artists
There is a virtual opening reception next Friday, January 26, at 4:30pm.
The Zoom link will be posted on the exhibit site next week.
Congratulations to the MHS Mock Trial Program
Congratulations to MHS Mock Trial Program for competing in their first ever trial this past Wednesday, January 17th.
The team argued as the prosecution against Franklin High School. It was a great experience and everyone is preparing to go on the defense for next week’s trial against Hopedale.
Members include: Macy Cyr, Lindzey Murillo, Izzy Doherty, Nora Molloy, Mauricio Olivares, Maggie Doherty, Annie Rollag, and Kevin Brynczka.
They were accompanied by their advisor, Ms. Ziemba.
~ Happening Around Millis ~
January 12, 2024
Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
As students entered school this morning, the sounds of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s, "I Have a Dream" speech were playing throughout the hallways on the school intercom. That speech was given on August 28, 1963, at the "March on Washington", and still resonates today, as we strive to fulfill the promise of that dream - a country of all people, of all races, colors and backgrounds, united by freedom and democracy. As we head into this long weekend, it's important to take a moment to remember the reason for this coming Monday's holiday, which marks the birthday and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A Baptist minister, inspired by advocates of nonviolence, Dr. King helped bring an end to legal segregation and played a huge role in the passage of both the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Dr. King's efforts in the face of adversity helped to change America in profound and lasting ways.
Lockdown Drill Completed Today
This morning, in conjunction with Millis Middle School, we completed a “Lockdown” drill. After the drill, the Administrative team met with Millis Police, who were on hand for the drill, to debrief.
The safety of our students and school is always a top priority. While we hope to never activate any of these protocols, trainings such as these help prepare our staff and students in the event we experience an emergency situation. Thank you for your help and support as we work to ensure the safety of your children.
December 2023 Students of the Month Announced
Grade 9 Nominees: Owen Caulfield, Juniper Zammarchi, and Flavio Ferrera
Winner: Owen Caulfield
"Owen always has great enthusiasm in class. His effort and participation is amazing and he brings a lot of laughter to the class."
Grade 10 Nominees: Elijah Roman and Aliya Chajon Navas
Winner: Aliyah Chajon Navas
"It has been so nice to see her grow as a student and become more and more comfortable in class."
Grade 11 Nominees: David Silva, Thaynara Lopes, Emilia Leach, and Mauricio Olivares
Winner: Mauricio Olivares
"Mauricio always has a positive attitude for class. He always comes into class and asks me "how I am doing" right away. He does all of his work and makes up work immediately when absent. He has been passionate about learning about compound interest. He has been involved in each person's presentation by helping students learn to apply interest rates."
Grade 12 Nominee: Raysssa Oliveira
Winner: Rayssa Oliviera
"Rayssa is always such a great overall person. Her positive outlook is present each and every class. She is willing to work with anyone and is willing and ready to work each and every class."
Mandatory Contact Update Sent
All high school families have been sent an email to update their emergency contact information. A student specific link is included in the email (please note that the snapcode is included in the link and may need to be copied for access). It is important that each student's contact information is kept up to date to ensure you receive important information.
Please take the time to verify and update this information as soon as possible. The emails and phone numbers provided are used for all emergency contact, correspondence, attendance, deadlines for events, tests, and graduation and other important information that is sent throughout the school year.
- If you have not created an account, you will be prompted to do so.
- Please note that if you have multiple students attending Millis Public Schools you will need to update for each student.
If you have any questions or log in issues please reach out to cliberty@millisschools.org
Vote for Artist of the Week
Senior Annika Whooten has been selected as a Finalist for the "Artist of the Week" contest for grades 10-12 on the virtual gallery platform, Artsonia.
Please vote by end of day January 13. Limit one vote per computer per day for each grade group.
Winners will receive commemorative plaques and be featured on the Artsonia homepage. In addition, Blick Art Materials has generously donated $100 gift certificates to the winning schools and $50 to the winning artists.
Eastern District Music Festival
Sophomore Mia Young attended the Eastern District Music Festival last weekend at Milton High School as a member of the chorus. Mia was one of only 150 students accepted to the festival from the entire Eastern District. Congratulations Mia!
Staff Meeting Presentations
Juniors Mauricio Olivares and Hedia Louati ran an activity and presented to staff on behalf of our Culutre Club at this past Monday's faculty meeting.
Environmental Impact of Water Bottles
Lindzey Murillo presented her senior project at the same meeting, informing staff about the impact of plastic water bottles on the environment, and usage of them around Millis High.
Rostow Cup Challenge
Mr Bigelow’s AP Human Geography classes competed in the 6th annual Rostow Cup this week. Students studied Rostow’s Theory of Economic Development as part of the class, then drafted teams made up of 5 different countries from different regions of the world. They researched 7 different development indicators for each of these countries and then competed against their classmates, putting their countries head to head with one another in a bracket-style competition. Congratulations to period 3 winner, Rylee Silvia (pictured left), period 1 winner, Mia Ferguson (pictured right), and the overall champion: Rylee Silvia.
Materials Science
Materials Science is exploring the casting of metals. Using materials donated by ASM, Kent State and Foundry in a Bucket, students are conducting die and sand casting. Additionally students are exploring the use of lost wax and slush casting.
Lost Wax Casting - create wax mold, place it in plaster of paris, melt wax out, fill void with molten metal.
Die Casting - melt the metal (tin) and pour it into a heat resistant mold:
Natick Labs Field Trip
STEAM Scholar Students are going on a Field Trip to the Natick Labs on 1/22. This is a soldier center where equipment for the US Army is created by civilian scientists and engineers. Students will tour the facility and learn how US Army equipment is made. They will see how prototypes are created with a 3D printer and how experiments are conducted using the “Climate Control Room”. This will be a day of hands-on education in which the students will learn what goes into manufacturing products for the US Army.
ChemClub's Winter Solar Car Challenge
Peer Leaders Thrift Store
The thrift store run by the Peer Leaders Club this past Thursday, January 11, was a resounding success. Students and teachers were able to pick up some amazing bargains, as everything was priced at just $1. Thanks to everyone who cleaned out their closets to donate to this year's thrift shop fundraiser. We expect to see lots of "new" outfits around the high school next week!
Another Published Author In The Millis High School Community
Freshman Liam Termini, recently published a science fiction novel, The Red Orb, which can be found on Amazon.
Here is the story description from the back of the book:
"One night in Springville could change it forever, as an unknown orb heads towards Earth. Mysteriously impossible to find after its crash, fifteen-year-old Cole figures he should take things into his own hands, but it's not as simple as he thought it would be. The orb has powers, dangerous powers that could infect the entire Earth if not handled fast enough. Cole will have to learn who to trust, find a way to eliminate the threat and get over his annoying friend's dares.
The Red Orb is a sci-fi, adventure book that'll keep you wanting more."
Liam tells us this is the first of a three-part series. We eagerly anticipate the release of his next book. Congratulations Liam!
New Magazines Now Available Via SORA App.
Over 250 magazines (many with back-issues up to 3 years) and a handful of others in other languages (mostly Spanish) are now available on the SORA app. The audiences range from juvenile (e.g., Bluey the magazine) to general adult (New Yorker, Car and Driver, National Geographic) and they have a wide range of subjects. They are always available and they will be updated periodically.
You can access your SORA account through the ClassLink LaunchPad. There is also a mobile app for phones and tablets.
Students can use your school gmail account and follow the screenshots below. If you need help please ask Mr. Carter in the Library.
Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)
Hello Families and Guardians,
As a crucial part of our commitment to fostering open communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and the school community, we want to remind you about the existence and importance of our Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC).
Our SEPAC continues to be led by Mary Calo and Scott Humphries, who are both parents within the district. A SEPAC is an important part of any school district and town. A SEPAC provides direct input to school district leaders about policies, programs, practices, and services that have an impact on students with disabilities and their families. Its purpose is to advise, advocate, and offer guidance, not to decide policy. An effective SEPAC can increase the proactive, productive involvement of families by inviting their input in ways that can be used to shape local special education policy. Mary, Scott and I are dedicated to working together to create a solid bridge between the school district and families. In addition, each school has a parent liaison. If you have questions for the SEPAC members or are interested in attending meetings, please contact Mary and Scott at: millissepaccc1@gmail.com and millissepaccc2@gmail.com
Thank you,
Nealy
Nealy Koumanelis-Urquhart
Director of Student Support Services
Millis Public Schools
P: (508) 906- 3521 E: nurquhart@millischools.org
7 Park Road, Millis, MA 02054
Mass Partnership for Youth
Mass Partnership for Youth (MPY) is an organization that supports schools and other youth programs in the state. They also have an extensive library of resources for parents. MPY is pleased to offer proven resources to help students' families thrive. Parents can watch or just listen to experts who get right to the point solving big and small challenges. Each Library includes 10-minute videos and handouts, The science behind child development and parenting is abundant. Peace At Home Parenting experts translate it into easy-to-use, strategies for long-lasting change. Tap into the power of the brain-body-behavior connection to gain clarity and confidence to help your family thrive.
Winter Coat Drive and School Supply Drive
Please support Grady Polimeno’s Winter Coat drive and Nick Hill’s School Supply drive. They will be collecting before the boy’s basketball game on 1/12 and the girl’s basketball game on 1/19. They will be set up at the ticket table from 6:00-6:30 accepting donations. The jackets will be donated to the Jordan’s Furniture Coats for Kids and Families program and the school supplies will be donated to the Develop Africa program. Thank you for your support!
Environmental Action Collection
On Sunday, January 14th, the Environmental Action Club at Millis High School will be picking up any redeemable bottles and cans from residents in the Town of Millis. This money will go towards supporting the club and future donations that will be made to environmental non-profits, or other activities, to ensure climate education and awareness. Please put your name and address on the form linked to below (or scan the QR code) if you would be willing to donate. You can leave the bottles and cans out the morning of January 14th, by your front door, garage, or in the driveway. Environmental Action volunteers will come by and pick them up for you between 10AM-12PM! If you have any questions, please email: isabri25@millisschools.org. Happy New Year!
Got Talent????
We are planning a student talent show in April and want YOU to perform! Go to your Google Classroom and complete the Google Form. The grade that has the most acts participating will be rewarded with 1/4 of the night's profits.
Some ideas for potential performances:
Musical acts
Skits imitating your favorite teachers!
Dance performances
Lip-syncing
Comedy stand-up routines
Hula-hooping contest
Poetry slams
Rap battles
Magic tricks
... pretty much anything else you can think of!
~ Happening Around Millis ~
Community Workshops
Some new community workshops are now available at Chris' Corner:
January 5, 2024
Continue scrolling for previous newsletters
1st DECA Competition a Big Success!
Congratulations to our Millis High School DECA team, which competed on Thursday and Friday in their first ever DECA competition at the evVision Hotel In Mansfield. 25 students from MHS competed with over 450 peers from from high schools all over the region, presenting business plans and ideas on a variety of different topics. Impressively, the nine MHS students below placed in the top 5 in their topics, and will be moving on to the state competition in March. Congratulations to all involved, and to our DECA advisor, Mrs. FitzGerald! Check out some great photos from the event below as well!
Aidan Ludwig
Arijus Johnson
Declan Ryan
Ryan Johnston
Dhyey Patel
Jack Ryan
Xander Petrush
Taryn Streck
Ryan FitzGerald
Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is a high school and college program for students interested in business. The organization prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.
Congrats Mrs. Zitoli...Welcome Back Ms. Flynn
We welcomed a new addition to the Millis family when our adjustment counselor and Bridge Program director, Olivia Zitoli, gave birth to a baby boy, William Peter, on December 22. Congratulations to Mrs. Zitoli and her family! Until Mrs. Zitoli returns, Ms. Kelsey Flynn will be coming in to work alongside Mrs. Graham in our Bridge Room. Ms. Flynn was with us last year filling Mrs. Sullivan's maternity leave, and we are happy to welcome her back to our counseling team. Ms. Flynn previously worked as a clinician at the ACCEPT Education Collaborative, and upon leaving us last year, worked the rest of the school year as an adjustment counselor at Holliston Middle School. She's working in private practice now, and has been able to find time in her schedule to help us out here while Mrs. Zitoli is on leave. You can reach Ms. Flynn by email at kflynn@millisschools.org.
Have you checked out the new, improved library web page?
Find our latest book requests on our Amazon Wish List linked from the top of the page.
The recent Scholastic Book Fair in October raised over $1,400 in Scholastic Dollars, which allowed us to purchase 40 books for the library, both replacing some of the more popular books which had become lost, and buying new ones. Thank you to everyone who supported our book fair!
New winter programs from Millis Recreation Department
Faculty Variety Show
The Faculty Variety Show will be on January 11, at 7:00 PM in the High School auditorium.
Come and see your teachers as you have never seen them before as they showcase a whole host of skills!
Tickets are $5.00 per attendee, all of which will be donated to the G.R.I.T. Scholarship.
Peer Leaders Thrift Shop Donations Needed
Did you get gifted a sweater from your Grandma that you know you will never wear? Donate it to the Peer Leaders thrift shop! How about those clothes in your closet that you are just done with but are still in good shape? Donate them to the thrift shop! The Peer Leaders are accepting new and gently used clothing for their upcoming thrift shop (January 11). Donation boxes are set up in Mrs. Dunn’s office and Mr. Alconada’s room. Please bring in your donations when you return from break!
ATTENDANCE POLICIES
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Tardies
If your student is going to be late to school, a parent/guardian must contact the office, by or before 8AM. The office can be reached one of the following ways:
Attendance line: 508-906-3713
Attendance email: hsattendance@millisschools.org
or you may send your student in with a note
If we don’t hear from a parent/guardian, the tardy will be unexcused. Upon arrival at school, the student should go directly to the office and sign in.
Dismissals
If your student needs to be dismissed, a parent/guardian must send their student in with a note or email the office at hsattendance@millisschools.org, listing the dismissal time and reason. Just a reminder that driving hours should not be scheduled during the school day, and do not constitute excused time away from school.
Phone calls for dismissals are not permitted.
Students are expected to check in with the office to confirm their dismissal and receive a pass. If we do not receive a note, a parent or guardian must come into the office to sign their student out at the time of dismissal. Please make every effort to adhere to this dismissal policy to minimize disruptions to class time. Please also be mindful of how a dismissal may impact your student’s eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities.
- Activities Eligibility Dismissal: If your student is involved in extracurricular activities and needs to be dismissed during the school day, they will need to provide a note from the place of their appointment (not a parental note) so they remain eligible to play or practice.
- Medical Dismissal: Any student requesting to leave for any kind of medical reason must go through the nurse’s office.
- Emergency Dismissal: In the event of a true emergency, a parent/guardian should contact the office. Every attempt will be made to expedite the dismissal. Please note, driving hours scheduled during the school day are not considered an emergency nor excusable under any circumstance. Every effort should be made to complete these hours outside of school hours.
Absence
If your student needs to be absent from school, a parent/guardian must notify the office via the attendance line at 508-906-3713 or by emailing hsattendance@millisschools.org as close to 8:00 AM as possible. If we don’t hear from a parent/guardian, the absence is unexcused and the student will be marked as truant. Attendance at school is incredibly important, and every effort possible should be made to maintain regular attendance at the high school.
SCHOOL COUNSELING
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School Counselor Assignments
Mrs. Riley Dunn (rdunn@millisschools.org)
Grade 9 (2027): Abreu - Kitchens
Grade 10 (2026): Arian - Lauria
Grade 11 (2025): Adams - Joseph
Grade 12 (2024): Athanasi - Keomorokot
Ms. Nicole Moore (nmoore@millisschools.org)
Grade 9 (2027): Kraby - Zammarchi
Grade 10 (2026): Lebak - Young
Grade 11 (2025): Kaslosky - Zangari
Grade 12 (2024): Legere - Zarnofsky
Millis High School
Small School.. Big Family
MHS Vision of a Graduate
Communication * Collaboration * Critical Thinking * Character
The Millis Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, gender identity, religion, national origins, sexual orientation, disability or homelessness.
Website: https://hs.millisps.org/
Location: Millis High School, 245 Plain Street, Millis, MA, USA
Phone: 508-376-7010
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Millis-High-School-1743691028988870/
Twitter: @millishigh
Instagram: @millishigh