
Highlander Happenings
January 24, 2025
Thomas McKean High School
Principal's Corner
McKean School Community,
As the winter chill settles in, we are reminded of the resilience and perseverance that colder months often require. Just as the seasons test our resolve, they also provide opportunities for growth, teamwork, and reflection. Whether navigating icy sidewalks or braving early mornings for practice, each challenge presents a chance to build character and determination.
In this spirit, I want to highlight the incredible efforts of our students and staff during this season. From academic work to extracurricular activities, they exemplify perseverance daily. Whether they are preparing for class, tackling projects, or going for the win on the court, their dedication inspires us all.
Cold Weather Precautions
As temperatures drop, please remind your students to dress warmly and be mindful of their health. Hats, gloves, scarves, and layers go a long way in ensuring comfort and safety during outdoor activities. Our school remains committed to fostering a safe and warm environment for all.
Celebrating Our Sports Teams
Winter sports are in full swing, and our Highlanders have demonstrated remarkable teamwork and perseverance on and off the field. From thrilling basketball games to intense wrestling matches and beyond, our teams demonstrate the values of hard work, dedication, and community spirit. Let’s continue to show our support by attending games and cheering them on — they thrive on our encouragement! Let’s go McKean!
Important Dates
Highlander Counselors Updates
PSAT9, PSAT10 & SAT Testing Day
March 11th for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders.
2025 Governor’s School of Excellence:
The following students have been nominated to represent McKean for the 2025 Governor’s School of Excellence:
Peyton Yaich – Academic
Jalena Apa – Art
Jacob Rutter – Choral
Red Clay Updates
Teacher of the Year
It's that time of year!
We are seeking nominations for the 2025/26 Red Clay Teacher of the Year. Being selected as a Teacher of the Year is one of the highest honors the district bestows on Red Clay teachers.
The nomination window closes on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
PTO Updates
Class Advisor Information
Class of 2025
Senior Dues $50
Dues need to be paid for students to attend prom, their senior class trip, and/or participate in graduation. Dues can be paid to Ms. Bianco in the main office.
Class of 2026
Junior Dues $30
Dues need to be paid for students to attend prom, their senior class trip, and/or participate in graduation. Dues can be paid to Ms. Bianco in the main office.
Class of 2027
Welcome to Sophomore Year
See Ms. E Carroll for Class of 2027 Information
Fill out this survey for interest in your Senior Trip!
(Must have a redclay email to fill out the form)
Yearbook
Academic Updates
AVID Corner!
AVID 9 & 10 Team Building Obstacle Courses
Work Based Learning and Career Pathways at McKean
Plant Science
Horticulture students learning to create triangle floral designs and planting our first plants for the 50th Annual Plant Sale here at McKean! (April 26-May 3)
4rd Annual Job Fair for High School Students in New Castle County.
Jobs for Delaware Graduates (JDG) is excited to announce our 4rd Annual Job Fair for High School Students in New Castle County.
JDG Career Expo for High School Students in New Castle County
Wednesday, February 19, 2024 | 5:30PM-7:30PM
Wilmington University - New Castle Campus
320 N Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720
Artesian Maintenance Mechanic Partnership
Artesian: "It was a pleasure for Jill DiFebo (Brownmiller) class of ’96 and Pierre Anderson to host you today. We also found out that Rick Davis of the Meter shop, who gave a demonstration today, worked two summers at Artesian prior to graduating from McKean in 1976 and proceeded to work here for 48 years.
The students were able to engage with seven departments and be exposed to our work, its purpose, and job outcomes that would be applicable to them. We look forward to establishing a partnership with you moving forward!"
Highlander Athletics
Congratulations Junior Justin Scott for placing 3rd in the boy's long jump and representing McKean at the Ursinus Invitational 1/17
🚨❕🔔 ATTENTION SPORTS FANS 🔔❕🚨
All Tickets for McKean Boys Basketball games must be purchased online using the link below. No tickets will be sold at the gate and all tickets will be $5 for General Admission (This includes JV/Varsity). There will be no entry after halftime. No hats, hoods, or facial coverings - No re-entry - Ticket sales close at 2:45 on gameday. Failure to comply with the DIAA spectator code of conduct will result in removal from the game and campus.
DIAA Spectator Code of Conduct
- Be informed of the playing rules of the sport.
- Appreciate a good play regardless of who makes it.
- Cooperate with the cheerleaders and do not interfere with their cheers.
- Show concern for an injured athlete regardless of team affiliation.
- Do not taunt, jeer or attempt to distract the members of the opposing team.
- Avoid the use of profanity and derogatory or disrespectful yells, chants, songs or gestures.
- Refrain from offensive or unruly behavior which reflects poorly on the school you are supporting.
- Respect school property and the authority of school officials. Remember you are a guest of the host school.
- Do not publicly criticize the coaches or athletes for the loss of a contest.
- Respect the contest official and accept their decisions with out public protest. Recognize that without them we do not have a game.
Failure to comply with McKean's Procedures and Policies along witht the DIAA Code of Conduct may result in your removal from the athletic contest.
Climate and Culture
Highlander Family,
It’s hard to believe that the end of this month also brings us to the close of the second marking period– time truly flies!
I’d like to remind everyone that hats, hoods, and ski masks are not permitted inside the building. Parents, please take a moment this weekend to speak with your students about following this policy while at school. We will continue to enforce this rule daily and begin giving students consequences if they do not comply.
I hope everyone is feeling healthy, happy, and motivated as we continue the school year on a strong note. Our climate and culture team is here to support every student daily. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact Mr. Quig at the school or via email.
Warm regards,
Mr. Quig
Assistant Principal
Highlander Highlights
National Honor Society x Boys Soccer Team
The John Dickinson School and McKean HS are committed to making 300-400 sandwiches for The Sunday Breakfast Mission as our MLK Community Service Project . We had students and staff participated in this activity on Tuesday 01/14 9:00 am-10:00 am in our cafeteria. Afterwards, we got an overview of the Sunday Breakfast Mission and Facilities.
NHS Students:
- Olivia Barnes
- Holden Bickford
- Vaughn Brooks
- Jesus Lopez Rico
- Haydn Orr
- Grace Starrett
- Joseph Szczesiak
- Lizbeth Tovar-Lemus
- Lloana Montes-Diaz
Boys Soccer Students:
- Jahaziel Trevizo
- Jahir Eumana
- Brian Salazar
- Adrian De La Rosa
- Cristian Padovani
- Cristian Rojas
- Dominic Rugerio
Special Olympics and Best Buddies at McKean
Special Olympics Leadership Conference
Congratulations to the following students for attending the Special Olympics leadership Conference 1/23
- Jesus Lopez Rico
- Lizbeth Tovar-Lemus
- Jonarielys Rodriguez Vega
- Angel Obregon Banda
- Michael Hernandez
- TJ Perkins
- Josh Page-Bennett
- Kevyn Skinner
Polar Bear Plunge on February 2nd!
The courage of the athletes of Special Olympics Delaware inspires us all, and it moves us to take the Polar Bear Plunge!
Events like the Plunge fuel the mission of Special Olympics Delaware to provide year-round sports training, competition, leadership opportunities, and health screenings to thousands of athletes - all at no cost.
Want to help?
Support our team by making a donation.
Or, come join the team! Can you bear it?
We know it will be cold, but we don't do it because it's easy; we do it to make a difference.
Together we will raise more money for Special Olympics Delaware than we ever could alone.
Thanks so much for your support... and please don't forget to send this page to any friends you think might be interested in donating or joining!
Phelan Lucky at McKean!
Spread the Word Shirts
The McKean Special Olympics and Best Buddies Club will be selling the Spread the Word t-shirts for $7.00. The shirts are for the first week of March when we celebrate Spread the Word-Inclusion Day. This is where we will have a banner signing to pledge to show respect and kindness to all. This year we will host events throughout the week and wear the new shirt on Wednesday, March 5th.
We have Youth Sizes Small, Medium, and Large and Adults sizes Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, and 5XL.
If you would like to order one, please click the link and fill out the form below. You can pay by cash or check written out to McKean High School. You do not have to pay now, just let me know what size you would like.