West Side Story 2.0

Although we are just getting into 2nd semester, it's time to look forward to the exciting possibilities that the next academic year holds. It is time to register for classes for the upcoming school year.

Choosing your courses is a crucial step in shaping your high school experience and preparing for your future endeavors. We have a diverse range of classes that cater to various interests, learning styles, and aspirations.

Here are a few key points to keep in mind as you begin the registration process:

1. Explore Your Options: Take the time to explore the different courses available. Consider your interests, future goals, and any academic requirements you need to fulfill. Our Registration Guide is full of valuable information.

2. Seek Guidance: Our staff is here to assist you in making informed decisions. Feel free to reach out to them for advice, clarification, or any questions you may have about the registration process.

3. Plan for Success: Think strategically about your course load. Balance your schedule to challenge yourself while ensuring a healthy workload that allows you to excel academically.

4. Embrace New Challenges: Consider stepping out of your comfort zone by exploring courses that pique your curiosity. High school is an excellent time to discover new interests and talents.

5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for communication from the school regarding registration deadlines, information sessions, and any additional resources that may aid you in the process.

We look forward to partnering with you in creating a fulfilling and enriching academic experience for the upcoming school year. Your education is the foundation of your future success, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Next week our counselors will be meeting with each grade level to give an overview of the registration process. Monday they will be with 11th grade, Tuesday 10th grade, and Wednesday 9th grade.

On Thursday and Friday (February 8th and 9th) we will be running an extended Scarlet Time schedule. During Scarlet Time, students will be watching videos about the variety of elective courses available to them.

On Thursday and Friday, classroom teachers will be taking just a few minutes in each class period to share with students what classes would be available to them through their department and will answer questions students have about courses in the Registration Guide.

Monday, February 12, we will hold a registration open house from 3:45pm - 7:45pm. Teachers will be available in their departments to share information about the courses they teach and to answer questions. Each department will have an information table in their hallway with information about the classes they offer and information about clubs and activities.

We will also be holding mini-sessions on dual enrollment courses, work based learning, and AVID. Details will be coming soon in regard to time and location of each session.

At 6:00pm, in the auditorium, we will be having a registration meeting for our DMMS families who will have freshmen next year. Anyone who is interested in hearing more about the registration process is welcome to attend.

The registration window will open in Infinite Campus on Monday, February 5th and will close on Friday, February 19th. We want to give students and families ample time to make informed decisions around course registration. Once the window closes, students are not able to make changes to their requests. Student registration requests drive our staffing process and determines which courses will run the following year.

In an effort to make sure our doors are secured and supervised, please make sure to drop students off at Door 1 (in the front of the building where you would enter to the auditorium) during the school day. All other doors are locked at 8:45am and will remain locked until the end of the day. Any student that comes to school after 8:45am must be prepared to show their student ID. Visitors should also be prepared to present identification to our security desk upon entry to the school. Visitor parking is available along the sidewalk by the tennis courts. Thank you in advance for your attention to this.

Daily attendance is so important in high school. When students are absent, they can make up assignments, but nothing can replace the authentic learning experiences that are created with their peers in the classroom. Consistent school attendance, defined as having an attendance rate of 90% or higher, is a key factor in student achievement. Chronic absenteeism occurs when a student misses 10% or more of the days school is in session. This equates to missing as few as two days a month. Research shows that students who consistently miss school are at risk of lower academic achievement, failure and even dropping out of school altogether. When students attend school regularly, they are more likely to keep up with their learning, actively participate in class, and build positive relationships with peers and teachers. Additionally, regular attendance fosters a sense of routine and responsibility that contributes to long-term success.

Check out this link to see what is happening in the Counseling Center.

Please use this link to learn more about the parent sponsored grad party for all seniors.

Graduation is June 6th at 8:00pm at the Mayo Event Center.

The Mankato West Yearbook is on sale! Don't miss out on the memories. Buy your yearbook today by clicking the link. www.mankatowestyearbook.com

If you purchase the yearbook before Friday Feb. 9th you will get the early bird price of $45 so don't miss out! Thank you for supporting our school!

February 2

9th graders participate in the Career Navigator

February 5

11th grade registration meetings with counselors

February 6

East/West Hockey 7:30pm All Seasons Arena

February 8 and 9

Extended Scarlet Time Schedule

February 12

Registration Open House