Owls Nest Newsletter

Hello Owls!

We are thrilled to share that our testing season was a resounding success! A huge thank you to all of our students for coming so well-prepared and giving their best efforts. Your dedication and hard work is commendable.

We hope everyone has had a chance to review the progress reports posted last week. As we enter the final five weeks of the semester, we encourage all students to keep up the momentum and finish strong!

We're also excited to announce the upcoming Student Voice Summit, hosted by Principal Daniels. This event is a fantastic opportunity for students to share their ideas and feedback directly. The summit aims to shape future initiatives based on your valuable input. Don’t miss out on making your voice heard! Sign up here. https://forms.gle/ZQzeWAkyWungvm1U7

Additionally, we are eagerly anticipating the Senior Social on Thursday, May 2nd, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the old gym. This event marks the beginning of our senior celebrations. Seniors, please come dressed in your caps and gowns. It will be a wonderful occasion to take memorable photos with classmates, teachers, and staff, and enjoy some delicious food and refreshments. Let’s make this an unforgettable gathering!

Thank you all for your ongoing support and enthusiasm. Let's make the most of the remaining weeks and end this semester on a high note!

Dear Families and Caregivers,

You are cordially invited to participate in our upcoming Caregiver Workshop Day, where we are dedicated to providing you with valuable support, resources, and opportunities for connection. This event is tailored specifically for caregivers like you, and we are thrilled to extend this invitation to you and your family. This is a districtwide event, and we invite you to register first. Attendance is limited to the first 200 people to register.

Date: 5/4

Time: 8:30am-1:30pm

Location: Agua Fria High School

Highlights of the event include:

• Free Admission: There is no cost to attend this event. Your presence is our priority, and we want to ensure that access to support and resources is readily available to all caregivers.

• Complimentary Breakfast and Lunch: Enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch on us! We want to make sure you're fueled and ready to engage in the day's activities.

• Free Childcare: We understand that arranging childcare can be challenging. That's why we're pleased to offer free childcare services during the event, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the workshops and activities.

• Expert-led Workshops: Gain valuable insights and practical tips from experts in various fields related to caregiving. Our workshops cover a wide range of topics to address your unique needs and challenges. Full descriptions here.

• Resource Fair: Explore the resource fair, where you'll have access to information, services, and support networks tailored to caregivers. Connect with organizations and professionals who are dedicated to assisting you on your caregiving journey.

• Opportunity to Connect: Meet and connect with other caregivers who understand and share similar experiences. This event is an excellent opportunity to build relationships, share stories, and find a sense of community.

We believe that caregivers/parents play a crucial role in our community, and it is our privilege to offer this day of support and empowerment to you. Whether you're caring for a family member, a loved one, or a friend, we want you to know that you're not alone.

Please RSVP to confirm your attendance and let us know if you require childcare services. If you have any questions or special accommodations, feel free to reach out to us. Arai@aguafria.org

We look forward to welcoming you to our Caregiver Workshop Day and supporting you on your caregiving journey.

We are excited to share the progress on how the 2023 bond funds are being utilized to improve our schools and enhance educational opportunities for all students. These projects are vital in ensuring that our facilities meet the growing needs of our community and provide a conducive learning environment. For a timeline and to view updates on specific site projects within our district, please visit aguafria.org/bond

**ACT Gameday Success: A Morning of Encouragement and Excellence**

This year’s ACT Gameday kicked off with an inspiring display of community and support at our school, setting a new standard for student encouragement. By 7 AM, staff dressed impressively in their finest attire—full suits, ties, bowties, heels, and fancy collars—gathered in the courtyard, ready to motivate our students. The message was clear: "I am serious, I believe in you, this is IT!"

Our diligent staff made sure that all students knew where to head for their tests, with clear directions to the posted lists at the cafeteria windows. Speaking of the cafeteria, a huge shoutout to Barb Duncan, Aida Maciel, and the entire cafeteria team who prepared an amazing free breakfast, ensuring our students started their day right with hearty, nutritious options.

Post-breakfast, students enjoyed treats donated by local favorites like Krispy Kreme, Chick Fil-A, New Penny Cafe, and Black Rock, picked up from the Old Gym. Energized by the food and treats, students returned to the courtyard where they were met with music, high fives, and encouraging words from our fantastic staff.

The highlight of the morning was Principal Daniels' motivational speech at 7:30 AM, which perfectly set the tone for the day. The energy in the courtyard was palpable as students made their way to their testing rooms, uplifted and ready to tackle the ACT.

The day was not just about testing; it was a celebration of our students’ potential and a testament to our community's commitment to their success. Let’s carry this momentum forward, continuing to support and believe in our students every day!

CALLING ALL SENIOR FAMILIES! If you and your senior students have not completed your FAFSA Application, FAFSA Night on Tuesday will be a great asset to you and your senior students! Come in the front doors of campus and go upstairs to the Reading Room! The event begins at 5:30p on Tuesday Night, and will have representatives from EMCC, ASU, and more, who will be able to provide support in completing the application! Please see the checklist of what you should have done ahead of time, below! This is a very important step in unlocking some scholarships and financial aid!CALLING ALL SENIOR FAMILIES! If you and your senior students have not completed your FAFSA Application, FAFSA Night on Tuesday will be a great asset to you and your senior students! Come in the front doors of campus and go upstairs to the Reading Room! The event begins at 5:30p on Tuesday Night, and will have representatives from EMCC, ASU, and more, who will be able to provide support in completing the application! Please see the checklist of what you should have done ahead of time, below! This is a very important step in unlocking some scholarships and financial aid!

Kindly spare a few moments to participate in our 2024 Family Survey! Your valuable feedback is crucial as we strive for continuous enhancement in our family engagement efforts. We truly appreciate your input and contribution to our ongoing commitment to improvement. https://forms.gle/egUAGf6PdStfms8y7

🌍 Save the Date: Earth Day Activities Fair - 4/27!

Get ready for a day of eco-friendly fun and learning at the Earth Day Activities Fair on April 27th! Join us to support Agua Fria students as they showcase their academic and environmental projects.

🌱 Highlights:

-🌏 Earth Day Projects: Explore innovative solutions for a greener future.

- 🎨 Arts & Crafts: Unleash your creativity with earth-inspired crafts.

- 🍔 Food Trucks: Delight your taste buds with delicious bites from local food trucks.

- 🎶 Live Music: Groove to the beats of live music while enjoying the festivities.

- 🎁 Raffle Giveaways: Exciting prizes up for grabs in our Earth Day raffle!

- 🌈 Family Fun Activities: Engage in entertaining activities for all ages.

Mark your calendar and join us for a day filled with projects, activities, and community spirit. Together, let's celebrate our planet and support the next generation of environmental leaders!

As we make our way to the end of the year, student attendance is more important than ever. Please make sure your student(s) is coming to school every day and on time.

We are excited to announce that today marked the grand opening of our Owl Closet and Pantry. If you or your students are in need of clothing items, shoes, prom dresses or a suit for prom or graduation please reach out to us so we can get you into the owl closet.

Make an appointment here

Senior Information: Class of 2024 just a reminder of some important info and dates. Please check these out and if you have any questions, please reach out to Assistant Principal, Kristen Tiffany ktiffany@aguafria.org

Cap and Gown purchases are made through Jostens at jostens.com. Please buy your cap and gown no later than February for a March delivery on campus.

Graduation is Saturday May 18 at 4:30pm at State Farm Stadium. More details regarding arrival time, parking and dress code coming soon.

5/2 Senior Social 3pm-5pm *Mandatory event for Seniors *Wear cap & gown

5/6 Practice for Senior Honors Night 2:20pm-3:20pm

5/7 Senior Honors & Awards Night 6pm-7:30pm *Seniors report at 5:15pm *Wear gown, no cap

5/13 & 5/14 Half Days for Seniors (5/14 is last day for seniors)

5/15 Senior Checkout-Specific info to follow

5/16 Graduation Practice (New Gym) 8am-10:30am *Mandatory event for seniors

5/18 Graduation (State Farm Stadium) 4:30pm

*Seniors report 3:15pm

*Please take a look at the above dates and be sure to note all Mandatory dates for seniors.

*Information regarding directions to the stadium, student and family parking, graduate and family entrance gates, and where to meet graduates during the ceremony will be provided at practice, will be emailed to seniors and family, and will be posted on the website.

*Diplomas may be picked up May 20-May 23 in the Counseling Office.

**Seniors who were awarded athletic and/or academic scholarships, academic awards and/or joining the military will be invited to the Honors and Awards Night on May 7. Invitations will go out at the beginning of April. Students must self-report their scholarships (documentation may be required). A survey will be sent out to all seniors the week of 3/4.

***Dress Code for Graduation is formal. Clothes worn with the gown must be: dress pants & dress shirt with tie, dress pants or skirt with blouse, or a dress. Shoes must be: dress shoes-no sneakers or slippers. All attire will be checked upon entrance to the stadium. During the ceremony students will have their gowns fully zipped. All academic adornments can be worn at the graduation ceremony (stoles/cords). Cultural stoles may also be worn with the approval of administration (admin must see the stole for approval). No other adornments may be worn. Caps MAY be decorated, please read the attached guidelines for decorations. If you have questions about senior events, please contact Assistant Principal, Kristen Tiffany ktiffany@aguafria.org

Congratulations to our March Athletes of the Month, Lilianna Gomez, Sebastian Heredia, and A'mi Wells!

Senior, Lilianna Gomez, works hard on the court and always hustles regardless of the drill or person she is playing. She is consistently helping out the program by setting an amazing role model for newer players and is always willing to demonstrate skills and drills. "I couldn't ask for a more coachable and open player to take feedback. She contributes so much to the team and even helps come up with the drills and games that we play in practice which has been SO helpful. I really appreciate her creativity and dedication to tennis and her team!" says Head Coach Sarah Ramsbacher. Congrats Lilianna!

Junior, Sebastian Heredia, has been a leader of the Baseball program. He is hitting .333 while playing solid defense and helping out the program on the mound in games. He's part of the National Honor Society and a strong AP Student at Agua Fria. He plays the game as mentally and physically. He was one of the student-athletes who represented Agua Fria at the AIA’s Student Leadership Advisory Committee. He has gone above and beyond for this team! Congrats Sebastian!

Junior, A'mi Wells, has stepped it up in every way this season! With personal bests in the 100m dash, 200m dash, and Long Jump this season, she finds herself currently ranked for the state meet in THREE different events. And each meet she keeps getting better! In addition to being a phenomenal athlete, A'mi Wells keeps modeling good sportsmanship with her friendly demeanor and constant encouragement of her teammates. No matter what A'mi is facing, she remains a kind and compassionate individual. A'mi exemplifies the heart of a teammate who is focused on being the best version of herself while bringing out the best in others. Congrats A'mi!

If you have a question or want to speak to an administrator at any time during the year, please reference the alphabetical breakdown below. A specific administrator is assigned to students based on their last name.

A-C-Mr. Jovanelly jjovanelly@aguafria.org

D-J-Ms. Tiffany ktiffany@aguafria.org

K-P-Mr. Gardner agardner@aguafria.org

Q-Z-Ms. Alickovic aalickovic@aguafria.org

Principal Autumn Daniels adaniels@aguafria.org

Regular Communication

Email and the Remind App will be our primary source of communication with parents and students this year. The email address used will be the primary email given at registration. Parents are also automatically added to Remind through the contact information provided in your enrollment paperwork. Students’ Remind accounts are automatically created for students using their student email account.

Join us on the Remind App @aguafriahi

Here are directions to join Remind

Social Media

Click here for all of our Social Media accounts

Website: www.aguafria.org/afhs

Facebook: Agua Fria High School

Twitter: Agua Fria High School @aguafriaowls

Instagram: @aguafriaowls

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