The Panther Press
Official Newsletter of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School
Welcome!
September 15, 2019 - Volume 2 - ISSUE 4
Welcome to the Whitman-Hanson Regional High School Newsletter! It is designed to keep everyone (parents, students, staff, and community members) informed of the many events that are happening in and around the school. It contains links, pictures, and videos so that you have a more interactive experience and the ability to learn more about various topics.
Communication is incredibly important to understanding so we ask that you share our news as much as possible. We also welcome feedback! It is the only way to continuously improve. So, please interact, get involved, and let us know what you think by contacting us and sharing our news!
Important Dates to Plan
September 20 - Senior Parent Breakfast 7:15 Student Dining & PAC
September 26 - Delayed Opening
September 27 - Coffee with Counselors – Grade 9 Parents 7:30 Courtyard Café
September 28 - Miles for Meals
October 5 - SAT at WHRHS
October 10 - Delayed Opening
October 14 - No School – Columbus Day
October 15 - Lifetouch Picture Retakes – Grade 9-11 PAC
October 16 - Credit for Life – Grade 12, PSAT – Grades 10 & 11, Freshman Elections & Presentation – Grade 9
October 18 - Early Release – District Professional Development
Courtney Woodward Helps Us Remember September 11, 2001
DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS TO HOLD ELECTRONIC RECYCLING DAY
Whitman & Hanson Dollars for Scholars begins their fundraising season with a Fall Electronic Recycling Day at the former Maquan School in Hanson on Saturday, September 21, from 9AM to 1PM. Residents and non-residents can dispose of their unwanted electrical items which they may not be able to do away with by conventional trash methods. A fee will be assessed which will support DFS’ scholarship awards program.
Televisions 24” and below can be discarded for $25. Televisions over 24” can be discarded for $30. Wood console and projection TVs can be discarded for $35. Computers, VCRs/DVDs, window air conditioners, printers/copiers, fax machines, humidifiers, flat screen computer monitors, and microwaves can be disposed of for $10. CRT Tube monitors can be disposed of for $20. Cellphones ($1) and keyboards ($2) cost a lesser amount. Most items not listed will be accepted. Please ask for pricing. Additionally, discounts will be available for multiple donations.
In the interest of information, transparency, and concern for our youth...
Please talk openly to students about vaping and the associated dangers. I have put multiple news articles out concerning the multiple deaths from this epidemic. We have spoken to students in class meetings at the beginning of the year and yet there have still been 7 instances of students being involved (in the act, in possession of paraphernalia, etc.) in vaping in school. We have been in school for only 11 days! Think about that for a moment.
We can never turn back the clock, but instead focus on good decisions and actions for the future. Please help us by communicating with your students about the very real dangers.
Dr. Christopher Jones
What Did You Hear?
We don't understand what we have said until we know and understand what the other person heard. It's often difficulty for us to realize or act on, but ultimately, communication is the responsibility of the person who is either delivering the message or asking the question.
Three steps that are important to ensure what we are saying is being understood are:
Simplicity
Be direct with what you are saying or asking. The more clear the message; the better chance it has of being understood.
Responsibility
If someone isn't clear (or not answering your question) it is up to you to make sure the conversation stays on track and that your message is heard or your questions are answered.
Follow up
Make sure people understand by simply asking the question. I always thought that it would be tedious to communicate with people who spoke a different language because I am always asking; "do you understand?" When I reflect though, I take the perspective of it being the most important part of the conversation. I helps us not assume, but instead know if our message has gotten across.
I quickly address the importance of each in the video below. Check it out!
Our Story...
Take a look and feel free to comment...this is our story...and everyone is part of it.
Mr. David Floeck
Be a "Panther"
The school year has gotten off to a great start and the energy in the building is infectious. So many great things are going on inside and outside of the classroom and I encourage all parents to talk with their student about their daily experiences at school. Many of our clubs and activities are holding their first meetings of the year and I encourage all students to get involved. Step outside your comfort zone and experience something new. The clubs and activities are looking for new members and this is your opportunity to get involved, meet new friends, and experience new things. Experience what it means to be a “Panther”.
Mrs. Ruth Carrigan
Construction Career Day Field Trip - The School Counseling Office will be running a field trip to the 3rd Annual Brockton Area Construction Career Day on Wednesday, October 2nd for juniors and seniors. Students will explore careers in Building/Remodeling, Engineering, Paving/Sealcoating, Electrical, Plumbing/HVAC, Architecture, Welding, Mechanical, Solar & Energy, Smart Technologies, Landscaping, Utilities Management and MORE! See your counselor for more information and permissions slips.
After School Enrichment - Afterschool Enrichment will begin on Monday, September 9th. Join us in the Courtyard Cafe, at 1:40pm, for a snack and sign up for enrichment classes and homework support. Late bus is available Monday through Thursday @ 4:00pm. If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Leonard (Maureen.Leonard@whrsd.org) in room 271.
Senior Parent Breakfast – On Friday, September 20th, parents of seniors are invited to our annual Senior Parent Breakfast. We invite you to use this opportunity to meet your child's school counselor and to find out more about the college search process, the college application process, financial aid, and how to help your teen during the last year of high school. The program starts at 7:30 AM.
Financial Aid/College Financing Workshop – Please join us in the PAC from 6:30 – 8:30 PM on Wednesday, September 25 to learn more about the financial aid process. A representative from the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA) will be presenting.
Freshmen Parent Coffee with the Counselors - Grade 9 parents/guardians are invited to attend our "Freshmen Parent Coffee with Counselors" on the morning of Friday, September 27, from 7:30 am – 8:30 am. In an informal setting, we will be discussing the transition to high school and will share tips for keeping your child on track for a successful high school experience. Please follow this link to register for the program: https://forms.gle/C1DieY7ai6nTxft38
College Fair – Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, October 1 for a regional college fair from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. This year the fair will be held at Silver Lake Regional HS, Route 27, Kingston, MA. Approximately 100 admissions officers representing colleges, universities, post-secondary schools, and military branches will be in attendance. Bring a bag to take home college admissions materials.
PSAT Administration – The PSAT will be administered to all students in grade 10 and 11 during the school day on Wednesday, October 16th. The PSAT/NMSQT assesses the critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills students need for college and beyond. The PSAT is a great practice for the SAT and will help determine college and career readiness of students.
Credit for Life Fair - - The Credit for Life Reality Fair will be held for members of the senior class on October 16 during the school day. The Credit for Life Fair is a nationally recognized program designed to help high school students develop personal financial management skills that they will use throughout their lives.
Prudential Spirit of Community Award - Students in grades 5 - 12 who have made a difference through volunteering over the past year may want to apply for the Prudential Spirit of Community Award program. This prestigious award program has honored nearly 100,000 middle and high school students at the local, state and national level over the past 24 years for volunteer work. Applications are available at http://spirit.prudential.com/ or http://www.nassp.org/spirit. The deadline to apply on-line is November 5, 2019.
If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s school counselor. We are looking forward to a great 2019/2020 school year!
Mrs. Amy Floeck
A Chance to be Heard!
Any student in grades 9-12 are welcome to participate in the annual VFW Voice of Democracy competition. This year’s topic is “What makes America great?” “Student entries should be submitted (along with a completed entry form and audio recording) to our local VFW Post 697. The deadline for both contests is October 31, 2019. A complete entry form along with the rules may be found here!
The Veterans of Foreign Wars address is:
VFW Post 697
95 Essex Street
Whitman, MA 02382
Ms. Tanis
Miles for Meals
The National Honor Society is sponsoring the 10th annual Miles for Meals 5K and One Mile Walk on Saturday, September 28 at 10:00am at the high school. Use this link to register!
If you can’t join us on the day of the race, donations (via Racewire) are also greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to the Whitman and Hanson Food Pantries, to help your neighbors in need. We hope to see you there!
Mrs. Leonard
After School Programming is Starting!
21st CENTURY COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
AFTERSCHOOL ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
September 9, 2019 – June 4, 2020
“Let’s Find Success” ~~ Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 2:00 - 4:00pm
We are here to assist you….on the road to HS success. The afterschool team offers support prioritizing your to-do list, organizational skills, Infinite Campus check-in’s, encouraging self-advocating, strategies to effectively utilize your agenda, as well as academic support. Join us as you work towards academic success!!
Mindful Makers ~~ Mrs. Robichaud/Ms. Seldomridge ~~ Monday 2:00 - 3:00pm
Incorporating ideas from Our Minds Matter, our group will work to promote a school community that encourages social connections. We will work to reduce mental health stigma and create a welcoming environment by making art and crafts, and encouraging healthy habits and coping skills.
Co-Op: Building Relationships through Video Games ~~ Mr. Casey ~~ Tuesday 2:00 - 3:00pm
Do you enjoy video games such as MarioKart, Smash, or Overcooked? Join us for some fun and meet new friends on the way! Increase communication and team cohesion by playing Cooperative Video Games and exploring Game Design. Teams have become increasingly important within an organization and can only be affective to the extent that team members work cooperatively with each other.
Healthy Cooking ~~ Mr. Ryan ~~ Tuesday/Thursday 2:00 - 3:00pm
Join us for culinary class where you will learn to cook simple healthy foods to prepare in your kitchen at home. Come with your menu ideas and we will learn together how to peel, chop, measure, dice and slice.
World Cultures Club ~~ Ms. Ferrara/Ms. Seldomridge ~~ Thursday 2:00 - 3:00pm
The cultural club aims to promote awareness, acceptance, and appreciation of the many diverse cultures at WHRHS. Students will participate in a variety of activities including language learning, cooking, music, dance, guest speakers, and community service. Learn about other cultures, have fun, and make new friends!
Afterschool Enrichment Schedule
Monday - Thursday 1:40pm - 2:00pm Snack & Check-In/Courtyard Café
Monday-Thursday 4:00pm late bus
Students who participate in two activities are eligible for 2 elective credits.
To enroll, contact Mrs. Leonard at 781-618-8020, visit room 271 or email maureen.leonard@whrsd.org
Mrs. Margaret Baker & Mrs. Kathleen Joyce
Welcome back.... Stop by the clinic and say HI!
We are looking forward to a safe and healthy school year.
A few things:
- Reminders for all parents/guardians/students to please return your Student Health Update forms.
- ANY and ALL medication must be kept in the nurses office with proper documentation from students physician and parent/guardian . Emergency medication may be kept with the student after the nurse has reviewed documentation. Medication forms can be found on the website.
- EEE is on the rise in Massachusetts. Please take appropriate precautions . Avoid being outdoors at dusk, wear long sleeves/pants, use bug repellent, lemon oil, mint. Check out this EEE fact sheet for additional information.
Athletics - Coach Bob Rodgers
Also, while we do not see mosquitos at our fields it still makes sense to take those common sense precautions we have been promoting even during those afternoon practices. Parents are advised to pack some of the repellent wipes in your child’s backpack and have them apply it daily.
Here are some highlights from the week in Panther Nation:
The boys and girls cross country teams started the season with victories at home over Plymouth South.
On the girls side, Sophomore Myah Kamperides' first place finish downed visiting Plymouth South 23-34 Wednesday afternoon. Kamperides covered the 5K course in 21:31. Other Panthers scoring included Senior Captain Tori Boss (3rd, 22:47), Senior Niki Kamperides (5th, 22:57), Junior Bryn Miller (6th, 23:10) and Sophomore Anna Flynn (8th, 23:19.)
In the boys race, Theo Kamperides powered past Plymouth South's Strickland Davis to lead WH to the 25-34 win. Kamperides covered the 5K course in 16:42 with Davis taking second in 16:43. Also scoring in the victory for Whitman-Hanson (1-0) were Senior Captain Brandon Hager (4th, 17:42), Sophomore Nathan Tassey (5th, 17:56), Junior Chris MacDonald (7th, 18:11) and Junior Liam Cafferty (8th, 18:39.)
The girls soccer team has come just as advertised with their biggest win of the young season coming against Patriot league rival Hingham, 4-0. Four different players scored for the Panthers. In the first half Ava Melia scored off a 25yd blast and the 1-0 score held through the half. WH doubled the lead when Nora Manning headed home an Anika Floeck cross. Kelsee Wozniak took a Olivia Borgen pass and beat a Hingham defender for the third goal and Alexis Billing struck a low shot to the corner for the 4-0 score. The Whitman Hanson defense of Ava Melia, Sam Perkins, Erin Wood, Courtney Woodward and Abby Carew were outstanding in helping goal keepers Kylee Colclough and Reese Codero earn the shutout. The Panthers will face league opponent Plymouth North on Monday at the new time of 5pm.
The boys team looks much improved from a year ago but the wins have been tough to come by so far despite playing well. The team lost a heartbreaker at Hingham in the final minute on Wednesday but did come back in thrilling fashion to earn a 1-1 tie at Cohasset on Friday. In the 79th minute, Peyton Collins fed fellow junior Brendan Nehiley for the equalizer. The boys return to action tomorrow (Monday) at Plymouth North.
One of the most exciting teams of the fall so far has been our volleyball team which is off to a 3-1 start. The highlight of the week, was a 3-0 home win over Scituate. Senior Marissa Connell led the team in kills with 5. Junior Delaney Rowell and sophomore Lily Welch were not far behind with 4 kills each. The panther's defense was unstoppable with a total of 19 solo blocks, Connell and sophomore Abby Martin contributing 5 each. Junior Sophia Berardinelli was another crucial player, tallying 8 assists. Berardinelli also tallied a kill for the team, something not usually seen from a setter.
The Field Hockey team made some history earning their first ever point against Duxbury playing to. 1-1 tie. The Panthers scored first about half way through the first. Junior forward Robin Goyette got her first goal of the year. The Dragons scored in the first half as well to tie the game up at one at half time and thanks to a solid effort from the defense that is how the game finished.
The young Panther football team has struggled with turnovers through the first two games and as a result WH sits at 0-2 after failing at home to Hanover Friday night, 20-10. Junior Jason Murphy hit Senior Jonathan Zeidan on a 13 yard td pass early in the game but that was the only touchdown of the night for the Panthers. Sophomore Will Stanford led the offense with 103 yards.
The golf team has a lot of young talent and while the wins have been scarce in the early going there have been many strong performances. The highlight of the young season was a 272-297 win over North Quincy. Junior Aidan Miller was the top player in the match with a 4 over 40.
Sports Short Wrap Up 9/3/19 - 9/8/19
There is so much going on with all our athletic teams, but you can catch up on all of it by reading Athletic Director Bob Rodgers' update and watching this weekly round up of the Whitman-Hanson Regional High School Panthers' athletic teams in action!
Hit subscribe and follow to catch them all!
Contact Us
Email: christopher.jones@whrsd.org
Website: https://www.whrsd.org/our-schools/whrhs
Location: 600 Franklin Street, Whitman, MA, USA
Phone: (781) 618-7020
Twitter: @DrCSJones