Trojan Times Parent Newsletter

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I am thrilled to share an exciting update on the ongoing renovations at McDowell High School. This spring and summer, the construction crews been hard at work transforming various parts of our school to enhance the learning environment for our students. One of the most significant projects is the overhaul of our auditorium, which will soon house a state-of-the-art research lab, a makers' space, a virtual reality lab, new classrooms for autistic support and life skills students, and much more. These new facilities are designed to provide our students with cutting-edge resources and opportunities for hands-on learning, fostering both their academic and personal growth.

In addition to the improvements in the auditorium, we are also upgrading our cafeteria with a new kitchen and updated lunch lines. These changes will allow us to offer a wider variety of dining options to cater to the diverse tastes and dietary needs of our students and staff. Our goal is to create a welcoming and nourishing environment that supports the overall well-being of our school community.

Furthermore, we are excited to announce that the entire basement of our school is being transformed into a hub for technical education. These state-of-the-art classrooms will offer courses in computer science, building trades, welding, metal tech, and manufacturing. This initiative is part of our commitment to providing students with practical skills and knowledge that will prepare them for successful careers in various industries.

While renovations are occurring this summer, our administrative team, secretaries, and guidance department staff will be temporarily relocated to Walnut Creek Middle School. This move ensures that all administrative and student support services remain available without interruption. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility during this period and are here to assist you with any needs or concerns.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. We are confident that these renovations will greatly benefit our students, providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive. We look forward to unveiling these new spaces and seeing their positive impact on our students' educational experiences.

Sincerely,

Sandra Means, M.Ed.

Principal

Congratulations to the top 10 students of McDowell High School's Class of 2024!

Your exceptional hard work and unwavering dedication to rigorous coursework have truly set you apart. Through countless hours of studying, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, you have achieved remarkable academic success. Your accomplishments reflect not only your intellectual prowess but also your resilience and determination. As you step forward into new challenges and opportunities, know that you have already proven yourselves to be outstanding scholars and future leaders. Well done!

The following summer hours will be observed throughout the Millcreek Township School District from June 17, 2024, through August 16, 2024.

• Monday through Thursday: 7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
• Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Thank you for your attention to these adjusted hours.

Dear Seniors,

Congratulations on a beautiful graduation ceremony! It was a joy to celebrate this significant milestone with all of you. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have culminated in this moment, marking the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. We are incredibly proud of each of you and the unique contributions you have made to our school community. As you step forward into new adventures, remember the lessons you have learned and the friendships you have made here at McDowell High School. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and look forward to seeing the remarkable achievements you will undoubtedly accomplish. Congratulations, Class of 2024!

~McDowell Administration and Staff

McDowell High School will be closed from June 10 to August 12 for renovations. During this period, the high school administration and secretarial staff will be temporarily relocated to Walnut Creek Middle School. Staff members can still be reached via email or by calling 814-835-5402. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve our facilities.

Senior pictures will be taken from August 19 to August 23 at the McDowell Senior High School building between 8 AM and 4 PM. Seniors will receive a postcard in the mail with their specific date and time, and an email with the picture schedule will also be sent.

For 11th graders, picture days are scheduled for August 22 and August 23, 2024. Make-up days for 12th graders will be on October 14 and October 15, 2024, while 11th-grade make-up and retake day is October 14, 2024.

Seniors are required to have a booster of MCV4, Meningococcal, and may be excluded from attending school if this is not completed. Once your student receives the vaccine, please send updated shot record to the nurse.

If you have any questions, please contact McDowell Nurse, Mrs. Linda DeHart (dehart@mtsd.org).

As we head into the summer break, the Student Assistance Program encourages all 11th and 12th graders to take time for relaxation and self-care. Summer is a perfect opportunity to recharge and de-stress before the new school year begins. Consider exploring outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying a book under the shade of a tree. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also be incredibly beneficial in reducing stress and enhancing your overall well-being. Additionally, connecting with friends and family, engaging in hobbies you love, or even taking some quiet time for yourself can help you return to school feeling refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as your academic achievements!