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Wildcat Growl
December 3, 2023
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Our Vision:
De Soto High School ensures all students learn at a high level and have a positive sense of belonging, developing each student to be ready for their future.
Principal's Message
Wildcats and Families,
Congratulations to the following students for being recognized as the Wildcats of the Month for November. Each department is recognizing the following students:
- English – Brooke Mermis
- Science – Stella Showalter
- Math – Mia Lowry
- Fine/Performing Arts – Austin Chase
- Social Studies - Reaghan Sabo
- World Language – Dane Newland
- Physical Education – Kamdyn Wedel
- Career and Technical Education - Lauren Owens.
Congratulations to the following students who made this year's Kansas John Philip Sousa Band: Eric Lange - Bari Saxophone, Thomas Mlodzik - Trumpet, Addison Easter - French Horn, and Maxton Branstetter - Contra Bass Clarinet. Way to represent DHS!
Several students have inquired about schedule changes for second semester. Second semester schedule change forms will be available in Student Services on Tuesday, December 5th. Forms are due no later than 3 pm on Friday, December 8th. This will be the only time frame in which students can request a change to their second semester schedule. A list of elective class openings by block will be posted outside Student Services. As a reminder, requests that involve a change or flip-flop of blocks (e.g. G1 needs to move to G4) and/or a change in teacher are not eligible for a schedule change request.
Just a reminder, the Cedar Trails Exploration Center (CTEC) Open House will take place Wednesday, December 6th from 6:00-7:30pm.
Starting next week, December 11th-14th, we are offering after-school support for students to prepare for final exams - called 'Cocoa and Cram'. Peer and adult tutors, hot cocoa, and holiday treats will be provided for students. The specifics are outlined below.
We have two full weeks of school before first semester final exams begin on Monday, December 18th, and end Thursday, December 21st. Winter Break begins on December 22nd. The schedule can be viewed on our website. If students must leave town prior to or during finals week, they will need to work with the teacher to make up the final within two weeks of their return (not before).
As we approach the end of first semester, we should all be proud of the numerous achievements of our students and staff. Their successes serve as a constant testament to the notion that goals can be realized by being committed, accountable, and thoughtful.
With the academic term coming to a close, it is worth noting that, starting Monday, December 4th, each class will meet only six more times this semester. Many of our courses are wrapping up content in preparation for the upcoming final exams. We cannot stress enough the significance of finishing the semester on a strong note.
Regular attendance at school plays a pivotal role in shaping student success. To further support our students academically, we offer various resources, including the opportunity to meet with teachers during seminars (with eight opportunities before final exams), participation in the Breakfast Club, and engaging in Cocoa & Cram sessions.
Let's collectively ensure a positive and productive conclusion to this semester by encouraging our students to make the most of the remaining class meetings and take advantage of the academic support available to them.
Thanks, and have a great week.
Sam Ruff
Principal
De Soto High School
De Soto Hardwood Classic Hospitality Room Donations - Thank you!
Thank you to everyone that signed up to donate something to the De Soto Hardwood Classic Hospitality Room. Please remember to drop those donations off on Monday in the main office. We are still in need of a few more items if you didn’t get signed up and would like to help. You can see the remaining items needed by clicking on this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054CACAC28A3FF2-46405817-2023.
Thank you so much and we hope to see you here at DHS enjoying lots of great basketball this week.
A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SUPPORT STUDENTS WHILE EARNING A LITTLE EXTRA INCOME
USD 232 is looking for one or more individuals to split a bus route that have either their LPN or RN licensure. We have some wonderful students with medical needs who are in need of either an LPN or RN to assist them while riding the bus to and from school. The hours are listed below and days to work flexible. If interested, please contact Sara Hoepner, Special Services Coordinator at shoepner@usd232.org, or Lee Hanson, Director of Special Services at lhanson@usd232.org, or Tara Harmon-Moore, Coordinator of Nursing Services at THarmonMoore@usd232.org for additional information. The job is also posted on our district website at https://www.applitrack.com/usd232/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Health+Services.
Bullying and Online Harassment
Cat Booster Club
Note from the Counselors:
DHS Counselors and Social Worker
Crissy Johns (A-G): CJohns@usd232.org
Abbey Heller (H-N): aheller@usd232.org
Kaitlin Britt (O-Z): KBritt@usd232.org
Joe Kordalski (Social Worker): Rkordalski@usd232.org
Securly App
Parents can have peace of mind in knowing your student’s search history and time on their device. See your student’s online activity in real-time and catch up with weekly email snapshots by signing up with the Securly app. Follow the link for more information and directions.