Soaring Eagle

Dear Mendenhall River Community School Family,

Welcome to another wonderful week at MRCS! February is already off to an exciting start, and we’re grateful to see the energy and dedication from our students, families, and staff as we continue to learn and grow together.

I’d like to take a moment to recognize that February is Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of Black leaders, inventors, artists, and pioneers who have helped shape our nation. Across our school, we’ll be incorporating meaningful lessons and activities to celebrate this important month.

We are also thrilled to announce that Leah Heiman has joined our team as MRCS’s new .5 TED teacher! Leah will be collaborating with Missy McMillan, the districtwide TED teacher, to provide targeted services and enrichment for our students. We’re so excited to have her on board!

Here are some important upcoming events and reminders:

• Monday, February 10th:

  • MRCS PTO Meeting at 5:15 pm, followed by the MRCS Site Council Meeting at 6:00 pm in the MRCS Conference Room.

• Tuesday, February 11th:
  The Juneau School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly Work Session and Board Meeting at Thunder Mountain Middle School Library.

  • Work Session (Topic: Budget) begins at 4:30 pm. Zoom link here.
  • Regular Meeting begins at 6:00 pm. Zoom link here.
  • You can access all meeting documents through this link.

• Stay Informed:
  The 34th Alaska Legislature is in session. You can review all proposed bills here and education-specific bills here.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support of our school community. The partnership between families and MRCS creates a strong foundation for our students, and I am always inspired by what we can achieve together.

Here’s to another fantastic week ahead!

Kindest,

Eric Filardi

Principal

Mendenhall River Community School

Last Wednesday, MRCS had the incredible honor of hosting a live jazz concert featuring the headliners of the Juneau Jazz Festival: Kyle Athayde, Bob Athayde, Eddie Barbash, and Philip Kuehn. These world-class musicians brought their energy and talent to our gym, and our students were absolutely captivated by the performance!

A big thank you to these musicians for flying into town early to share their love of music with our school. We also want to acknowledge our amazing music teacher for preparing students with engaging jazz activities leading up to the concert. Events like this truly enrich our students’ education and remind us of the power of music to inspire and connect.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this event such a memorable success! 🎵

This week's word of the week is the noun "plastic."

Welcome back to Questions for Clem, the column where our favorite furry friend tackles tough questions with wisdom and heart. This week, Clem addresses a heartfelt concern about helping a struggling friend and explores how reaching out to the 988 Lifeline can make a difference. If you’ve ever wondered how to support someone in crisis or what happens when you call for help, this one’s for you!

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Dear Clem,

One of my buddies on my adult basketball team hasn't been showing up to practice and the last time I spoke to him, he was really angry. I asked him what was wrong but he brushed me off by saying he was just tired. I’m worried about him but I’m afraid that I might say or do the wrong thing. If I call 988 what will happen?

B-Ball Coach

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Dear B-Ball Coach,

Woof, woof! Asking for help and being the help can both be difficult. It’s great that you are seeking out available support for your friend. The 988 Lifeline is a valuable free resource available 24/7, 365 days a year for when you are concerned about someone else, are personally in crisis, or just in need of someone to listen without judgement.

If you call or text 988 from an Alaska registered phone line, you will reach The Alaska Careline - 988’s regional call center manned by residents of Alaska to support fellow Alaskans. You can also reach the Careline with their regional toll-free number (877) 266-4357. The Careline is for everyone, including young people, and provides a safe space to talk.

When you contact the Careline, you’ll be connected to a counselor who will listen, and work to understand the problem. The Careline staff can help you brainstorm ways you might want to approach a conversation with your friend and how to provide continued support as they are struggling. During the call, you don’t have to say where you’re from, share your name, or provide any personal details unless you want to. Confidentiality is key, but there is one exception: if someone is in immediate danger, the Careline may contact emergency responders as a last resort.

Your friend can call the Careline directly as well or you can phone together. Calling the Careline is not the same as therapy. But, talking about distress, challenging thoughts or life situations can be a relief and incredibly helpful. Careline staff are trained to help callers discover their own solutions. While on the call, the counselor can share with your friend local resources and services that can offer further support along the way. The counselor may check in later to see how things are going, and will always ask if your friend feels safe.

Some people call once, some call regularly. There are no rules, no time limits, no expectations. You and your friend can even call just to see what it’s like! Give it a try. The Careline has over 30 trained staff from all walks of life. No judgment, no cost, just a compassionate person on the other end of the line.

Remember there are many resources and people ready to support you and your friend through tough times!

Many tail wags to you,

Clem

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Clem reminds us that even small acts of care and kindness can make a big impact. Supporting a friend doesn’t mean having all the answers—it’s about being there and connecting them to the right resources, like the Careline at 988. Do you have a question for Clem? Submit it here: https://forms.gle/dzpmTL8GmfAt6mjm8, and Clem just might answer it in an upcoming column!

Game: “Storybuilding Stroll”

Objective: Encourage creative storytelling while incorporating movement and fresh air.

How to Play:

1. Choose a Route: Go on a family walk around your neighborhood, a park, or even inside your home if the weather isn’t cooperating.
2. Start with a Sentence: The first person starts the game by creating the opening line of a story, e.g., “Once upon a time, a curious penguin found a glowing key in the snow.”
3. Story Stops: At every predetermined point along the walk (e.g., a street corner, tree, or room), the next person adds a sentence to the story. Encourage creativity and build off what others say!
4. Incorporate Surroundings: Use your environment for inspiration. For example, if you pass a squirrel, you might add, “And then, a squirrel appeared and offered the penguin a map!”
5. Add Movement Prompts: To keep energy up, assign fun movements during stops, like jumping three times or spinning in a circle before continuing the story.
6. Wrap It Up: Once you’ve completed your route, end the story together. If time allows, go home and write it down or illustrate it as a family project!

Why It Works:

• Enhances storytelling and sequencing skills.
• Builds vocabulary and creativity.
• Combines physical activity with literacy, making it engaging for active kids.
• Encourages collaboration and listening.

This game makes storytelling an adventure, and kids will love seeing their surroundings come alive in a shared tale!

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history. This month provides an opportunity for students, families, and educators to celebrate the triumphs and recognize the struggles of Black individuals and communities. It is also a time to honor the legacies of those who fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and freedom.

The origins of Black History Month date back to 1926, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson, often referred to as the “Father of Black History,” established Negro History Week. He chose February because it marks the birthdays of both President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two pivotal figures in the fight against slavery. In 1976, during the U.S. Bicentennial, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, urging Americans to honor the often-overlooked achievements of Black individuals throughout history.

Here are a few ways families can join in the celebration:

• Read Together: Explore books by Black authors or stories that highlight African American history and culture. Consider titles like Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly, The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander, or Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine.
• Discuss Key Figures: Talk about trailblazers like Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Ruby Bridges, Rosa Parks, and Barack Obama. Share their stories of perseverance and how they changed history.
• Celebrate Art and Music: Explore the vibrant contributions of Black artists and musicians, from the jazz of Louis Armstrong to the poetry of Maya Angelou.
• Visit Virtual Exhibits: Take advantage of online resources from institutions like the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture to explore exhibits and learn as a family.

At MRCS, we’re committed to providing a curriculum and environment that celebrates diversity and teaches students about the vital role African Americans have played in shaping our nation. Throughout the month, teachers will be incorporating lessons, stories, and activities that highlight Black leaders, artists, inventors, athletes, and activists. From the Harlem Renaissance to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, we aim to inspire students with stories of resilience, creativity, and courage.

By engaging with the stories and experiences of Black Americans, we not only honor their legacies but also foster empathy, understanding, and a sense of shared humanity in our students. Let’s continue to celebrate, educate, and embrace the diversity that strengthens our community this Black History Month and beyond.

The 2025 scholarship and grant period is now open and currently accepting applications.

JUNEAU, ALASKA (January 30, 2025) — The Juneau Arts and Humanities Council (JAHC) is now

accepting applications for the 2025 scholarship and grants. This funding is awarded to artists and

applicants to Juneau residents, though we are accepting applications from the greater southeast

Alaska region. The JAHC program offers student scholarships and awards, individual artist grants,

grants for creative projects, and oversees the re-granting of City & Borough of Juneau arts funding to organizations in the community. Applications are due on May 1, 2025 before 5 PM.

● Fine Arts Scholarships range from $250-500 and are awarded to students entering grades

7–12 who are interested in an area of writing, dance, drama, music, theatre, and visual arts.

Payments will be made directly to the students, with an exception to awards to attend Sitka

Fine Arts Camp.

● Advanced Arts Achievement Awards are awarded between $500 to $1000. Students

graduating from high school, GED recipients, students completing their homeschool

curriculum, and full time students up to 25 years of age are eligible and encouraged to apply.

All applicants must have lived in Juneau for at least one year. This award is intended to assist

passionate and dedicated students and young artists to continue their creative studies.

● Individual Artist Grants are awarded for up to $1000. These grants are intended to assist

emerging and experienced artists in the production of original works of art or the advancement

of their careers. Artists in any creative discipline may apply.

● Catalyst Grants are awarded for up to $500. Catalyst Grants are designed to support

individuals and organizations working on new or emerging projects and opportunities that are

not funded by other grants from the JAHC.

Applications for Catalyst Grants are accepted on a quarterly basis on day 15 of each month

in January, April, July, and October. Awards are made until the budget is depleted for the

fiscal year (July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026).

● Major Grants are awarded as a variable amount. The JAHC administers the City & Borough of

Juneau’s funding for the arts. These funds are intended to provide operating support for local

arts, culture, and humanities non-profit organizations whose work helps to cultivate vital

opportunities in our communities. Funding may be used for a specific project or for season

support.

Once the application period closes on May 1, 2025, the Juneau Arts & Humanities Council Board of

Trustees reviews and approves the recommendations from the independent panels before making the awards. If you are interested in being considered for the independent interview panel, please contact the Juneau Arts & Humanities Council at (907) 586-2787.

Further information on application guidelines, eligibility, and requirements for each opportunity is

available on the JAHC website at: www.jahc.org/scholarships-and-grants/. For assistance or

questions about these opportunities please contact (907) 586-2787 or email info@jahc.org. To inquire about paper applications, please visit our offices at 350 Whittier Street in Juneau, Alaska.

About the Juneau Arts & Humanities Council The Juneau Arts & Humanities Council (the Council)

incorporated in 1973. It is the formal arts agency for the Capital City of Juneau, Alaska and operates the Juneau Arts and Culture Center (JACC), a vibrant community center; providing a location for concerts and events, rotating gallery, and a lobby gift shop. The Council also operates Centennial Hall Convention Center under a management contract with the City and Borough of Juneau. The Council offers programming in performance, visual, literary, and arts education as well as grants, scholarships, and helpful resources for local artists.

The Juneau Arts & Humanities Council cultivates vibrant arts and cultural opportunities in our community and fosters a strong, prosperous, and inclusive environment where creativity and innovation thrive.

District Juneau Borough School District

Enrollment 294

Lowest Grade PK

Highest Grade 6

Accredited No

Title I Yes

This School Report Card presents information about the school’s performance for the 2023-2024 school year. During this first administration of The Alaska System of Academic Readiness (AK STAR) assessment students in grades 3-9 were assessed in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Students in grades 5, 8, and 10 took the Alaska Science Assessment.

As part of the ongoing implementation of Alaska’s Education Challenge, DEED is working with school districts to support success in every school. Utilizing Alaska’s plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) as a strategy for closing our achievement gaps, the accountability system is implemented to help celebrate success and identify areas where additional support is needed, with the goal of increasing achievement for all students. The Overall School Index Value is an important piece of the System for School Success, which provides information about how each school is supporting its students.

As part of the ongoing implementation of Alaska’s Education Challenge, DEED is working with school districts to support success in every school. Utilizing Alaska’s plan for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) as a strategy for closing our achievement gaps, the accountability system is implemented to help celebrate success and identify areas where additional support is needed, with the goal of increasing achievement for all students. The Overall School Index Value is an important piece of the System for School Success, which provides information about how each school is supporting its students. Please see the Guide to the System for School Success for a more complete description.

For 2023-2024, schools received a System for School Success Report. The one-page System for School Success Report contains:

• General information and school demographics
• Full Academic Year (FAY) participation rate
• Indicators
• Overall school index value
• The school’s designation for level of support
• The school index values for the nine different student groups.

You may view the full report card here: https://education.alaska.gov/compass/Report/2023-2024/22/220140#overview

JUNEAU, ALASKA (January 30, 2025) — The Juneau Arts and Humanities Council (JAHC) is

midway through season 51, and has already produced live musical performances from in-state and

out-of-state musicians, favorite seasonal markets, gallery openings, art nights, workshops, and more.

The JAHC will continue this work throughout this next month with more opportunities to participate in and enjoy live performances.

Throughout the week of Feb. 10 through Feb. 13, Juneauites are encouraged and invited to participate in a Gospel Choir Workshop, led by Reverend Bobby Lewis and Eustace Johnson of New York. This program is a partnership between the JAHC and the Black Awareness Association, Juneau, AK. Rev. Bobby Lewis is the Senior Pastor at the New Light Baptist Church in Harlem, New York. Some of his greatest achievements include seeing his choir sing with Barbara Streisand at Madison Square Gardens and writing the opening song for one of Oprah Winfrey’s birthday celebrations. Eustace Johnson is currently the Minister of Music at the Baptist House of Prayer and the Morningside Pentecostal Church in Harlem, New York City. He is also the Music Director of the Bobby Lewis Ensemble. Eustace has played in every major concert hall in New York City and continues to perform as a pianist, keyboardist and organist, accompanying many soloists and vocal groups around the tri-state area and abroad.

Participants can register for the Gospel Choir Workshop as an alto, tenor, soprano, or bass. Workshops will take place Monday, Feb. 10 through Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a dress rehearsal on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Juneau Arts and Culture Center (JACC), located at 350 Whittier Street in downtown Juneau. The Gospel Celebration concerts will be held at the JACC on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. To learn more, purchase tickets to the live concert, or

participate in the community choir workshop, go to www.jahc.org/gospel or call (907) 586-2787.

That same week, we have the pleasure of hosting Motown, a night of soulful music, dancing, and

timeless Motown hits. This event is made possible in partnership with the Juneau Black Awareness

Association. This event is geared towards ages 21+, with beer and wine on the premises available for purchase. Motown will take place at the JACC on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the performance beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets and details are available at www.jahc.org or by calling (907) 586-2787.

The Juneau community can experience more music in February through the Juneau Piano Series

winter concerts. The 2024-2025 season of the Juneau Piano Series is sponsored by AARP Alaska and coordinated by Artistic Director Jon Hays. All Juneau Piano Series concerts are performed on the grand piano at the JACC. The first performance is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. featuring pianist Eduard Zilberkant. Russian born Eduard Zilberkant is recognized as one of today’s most gifted artists and has an active career as conductor and pianist. A Yamaha performing artist, he has been enthusiastically received by audiences and press alike throughout Europe, Asia, and the United States.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025 at 3 p.m., the Juneau Piano Series will feature the Cynosure Piano Trio.

This trio is composed of three musicians: pianist Eduard Zilberkant, violinist Yue Sun, and cellist

Charles Akert. For further details on the Juneau Piano Series and to purchase tickets, please visit

www.jahc.org/juneau-piano-series or call (907) 586-2787.

For further information on future JAHC events or performances, go to www.jahc.org, visit us at the

JACC at 350 Whittier Street, or call (907) 586-ARTS.

The Alaska State Museum is hosting a Forever Plant workshop recommended for students ages 10-19 on Saturday, February 8th from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Multimedia artist Tamara Wilson from Fairbanks will be leading the workshop and help students bring their imagined plants to life. Here’s the little blurb about the workshop:

Forever Plants

Saturday, February 8th, 1:00pm-3:00pm

Plants are a wonderful way to bring joy into our homes during the dark months of winter. A Forever Plant can withstand the challenges of a dry cabin and or those that lack the green thumb to keep traditional house plants alive. From cactus to monstera: with the use of felt fabric, sewing, a little hot glue, a repurposed container, and your imagination, if you can cut it out we can grow your Forever Plant.

Registration is encouraged - reserve your spot by filling out the registration form.

Did you know you can help MRCS PTO earn donations just by using your Fred Meyer Rewards Card? It’s easy! Sign up for the Community Rewards program and link your Rewards Card to Mendenhall River Community School PTO (organization #HS191) at fredmeyer.com/communityrewards.

Every time you shop with your Rewards Card, you’ll still earn your regular rewards and fuel points, but MRCS will also receive a donation! It’s a simple way to support our school while doing your everyday shopping. Thank you for helping us make a difference!

Backpacks

Did you know that MRCS has backpacks for students who need them? Please contact Mrs. Berkey at 796-5600 or tristan.berkey@juneauschools.org and she will send one home with your child!

Weekend Food Bags

We want to remind you about the Alaska Reads Act, which is now in effect and plays an important role in supporting early literacy for our K-3 students. The act emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all students are proficient readers by the end of third grade, as strong reading skills are crucial for success in all academic areas.

What Does This Mean for Your Child?

• Regular Assessments: Students in grades K-3 will participate in regular literacy assessments to monitor their reading progress. These assessments help us identify areas where students may need additional support.
• Targeted Instruction: Based on assessment results, teachers will provide targeted instruction to meet the individual needs of each student. This personalized approach helps ensure that all students are on track to meet reading milestones.
• Parental Involvement: Families play a crucial role in supporting their child's literacy development. We encourage you to read with your child at home, engage in literacy-based activities, and communicate regularly with your child’s teacher about their progress.

At MRCS, we are dedicated to providing high-quality literacy instruction and resources to help every student succeed. The Alaska Reads Act aligns with our commitment to fostering a strong foundation in reading for all of our students.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the Alaska Reads Act and how it impacts your child, please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher or visit our school office.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students' success!