MHS Newsletter

December:

23 - Jan 1 - Winter Break (NO SCHOOL)

January:

13 - Professional Development - NO SCHOOL

21, 22, 23 - Semester 1 Final Exams

24 - Semester Break - NO SCHOOL

27 - Start of Semester 2 - 8 Period Day Schedule

29 - Course Information Night - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Prom: May 17

Last Day of School for Seniors: June 4

Last Day of School for 9th-11th Grade: June 11

Graduation: June 8

MHS Improves Scores in 2023-2024

Last year at Mukwonago High School, students and staff set goals to improve scores on the ACT. Staff re-evaluated how to approach this test that factors greatly into annual academic goals and the Department of Public Instruction school report card.

Some key gains that were made in 2023-2024 include:

• The English test had the single greatest year-to-year growth since the start of required state testing (2015).

• The English and Reading tests received the highest cumulative scores since 2018.

• Students with IEPs had a 0.9 point improvement in Math from the previous year.

• Scores on ALL five of the tested areas (English, Reading, Math, Science, Writing) improved.

• 21.4 is the highest cumulative ACT score for MHS since 2018.

Please remind your student that these scores have impacts far beyond their individual scores. Encourage them to set manageable goals and find time to practice using Methodize, MyACT.org, and other resources their teachers provide.

Attention SENIORS!!

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened on December 1st, all students going on to future schooling should complete this application to have any chance at student aid. Deadlines to submit the form vary by institution, but it is generally advisable to complete it as soon as possible. If you want to learn more about the FAFSA, please see this presentation from Financial Aid Night.

School Counselors have many roles at Mukwonago High School, one of the most important being a support and resource for all students and their families. High school counselors are more than just academic advisors—below are six key areas where school counselors are available to help:

1. Academic Support and Planning - Counselors work with students to help them select courses that align with their strengths, interests, and future goals. They ensure that students meet graduation requirements and help them stay on track with their academic performance.

2. College and Career Preparation - Whether your child is planning to attend a four-year college, pursue a technical degree , or enter the workforce, a counselor can help guide them through the decision-making process.

3. Emotional and Social Well-being - Counselors are trained to support students through times of stress, anxiety, or social challenges. Counselors can also support in providing outside therapy referrals when and if needed.

4. Extracurricular Involvement - Counselors can help students explore extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, or volunteer work that are available to them based on their interests.

5. Life Skills Development - Counselors can provide support and guidance in helping students with goal setting, study skills, time management, communication skills and conflict management - all which are necessary for success in students being college, career and life ready.

6. Crisis Support - High School Counselors are trained to intervene when and if difficult situations arise to ensure students have access to the appropriate help and services, whether inside or outside of the school.

How Can You Support Your Child’s Relationship with Their Counselor?

As parents, it’s important to encourage your child to build a positive relationship with their counselor. Here are some ways you can support this process:

1. Promote Open Communication: Encourage your child to view their counselor as a resource for both academic and personal support. Let them know it’s perfectly normal and helpful to ask for help when needed.

2. Stay Informed: If you have concerns about your child’s academic or emotional well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out.

3. Support Self-Advocacy: Whether it’s a class concern or a personal challenge, empowering your child to reach out to their counselor will help them develop confidence and problem-solving skills.

Students and parents can book an appointment with their school counselor by visiting the MHS School Counseling page HERE.

MHS students who elect to take our ACT Prep Course either in lieu of a study hall or after school have historically scored 2-3 points higher on the ACT. Last year, we had a record number of students taking the course and it resulted in record cumulative growth as a building. Although all students receive ACT instruction and resources through their everyday classes, this option gives them extended practice with a trained professional.

Juniors who would like to register for our ACT prep class that can be taken instead of a 3rd quarter study hall can contact their guidance counselor as soon as possible to have their schedule adjusted. The class will begin at the start of the second semester and will end on March 11th with the conclusion of the statewide test. Students electing the class will then return to study hall for the remainder of the semester.

We will also offer an prep class on Wednesdays or Saturdays in January and February. Please see the graphic below to register for one of these classes.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Come cheer on any of the following MHS Varsity games, meets & invitationals, or simply just wish them luck! Go Muk!!!! 👏

Wrestling Meet: ~ Away @ East Troy

Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament: ~Away - @ Waterford