![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/_fr/8.72e42688.jpg)
![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/_fr/8.7b5f91a1.jpg)
Scorpion Scoop
January 14, 2024
A Message from Principal Hann
Dear DEHS Parents and Students,
I hope you are enjoying a well-deserved break on this Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Today provides us with a valuable opportunity to reflect on the profound impact he had on our nation and the insightful words he shared about education.
Dr. King understood the crucial role played by teachers, administrators, and all members of the education system in motivating the students we serve. He urged educators to persevere in their efforts despite the obstacles that often hinder the teaching and learning process.
"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education." ~MLK, Jr
At DEHS, we are committed to fulfilling this goal by not only enhancing academic performance but also fostering good character in various aspects of our students' lives. Whether in the classroom, lunchroom, at games, or community events, our aim is to prepare students to become productive citizens in our community. I commend the outstanding work we have accomplished in making a positive impact, and I am excited about the future ahead.
Recently, we received remarkable data reflecting the fruits of our collective efforts. We are proud of the significant decrease in failing grades from Q1 to Semester grades by nearly 41%. This positive change directly correlates with the dedicated work being done to challenge our students, provide additional support when needed, and demand nothing less than their best. We are making progress, moving the needle, and effectively preparing our students for success.
Today is undoubtedly a great day to be a Scorpion, and I look forward to the continued growth and success of our school community.
We Are DE!
Gretchen Hann
DEHS Academies- Coming Soon!!
Our school will be transitioning to an Academy Model where all students will have the opportunity to explore career pathways, earn industry credentials, and network with local industries and leaders while they complete their requirements for graduation. The Career and Technical Education & Arts courses have been organized into Academies and we want your feedback.
For more information on the Academies of Desert Edge High School please see the slides that were presented in December linked HERE.
Please take a moment to review the information below. We kindly ask that you submit your responses no later than Friday, January 19. Thank you!
Staff & Student of the Month
December
Save the Date!
Varsity Tutors
We are excited to share that our students now have Platform Access to Varsity Tutors through May of 2025. Students will access Varsity Tutors via Clever. Thanks to a grant, the company is able to provide the resource at no cost!
Here is a quick overview video of what Platform Access includes.
Students have learned more about this program this week in their Advisory class and during our 2nd Semester Class Meetings.
Scorpion Showcase for Future Freshman is on January 23
AFUHSD STEMCon 2024 is coming soon!
Library News
Check out DETV!
Volunteer Information
Community Partnerships
🙌 Huge shoutout to Raising Canes for their generous donation to Desert Edge High School! 📚🍗 Your support means the world to us and will make a big difference in our school community. Thank you for investing in our students! 🧡🦂🖤
A Message from AFHSD Food Services Department
Since July 1, 2014, the US Department of Agriculture's Smart Snacks in School rules have required all foods and beverages sold/offered meet new nutrition standards.
Under Smart Snacks in Schools, all foods must:
- Be a "whole grain-rich" grain product; or
- Have as the first ingredient a fruit, a vegetable, a dairy product, or a protein food; or
- Be a combination food that contains at least 1/4 cup of fruit and/or vegetable; or
- Contain 10% of the Daily Value (DV) of one of the nutrients of public health concern in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (calcium, potassium vitamin D or dietary fiber)
Foods must also meet several nutrient requirements:
< 200 Calories
Total fat: <35% of calories
Saturated fat: <10% of calories
Trans fat: zero grams
< 200mg Sodium
Sugar <35% of weight from total sugars in foods"
In 2022, the Federal Department of Agriculture (FDA) requires a certified Food Protection Manager be present from start to finish when open food/beverage is being sold/offered on school campus. Along with a certified Food Protection Manager, any person(s) serving/providing open food/beverage must have a Food Handler's Card.
Crosswalk Reminder
Please see the attached communication from DEHS Administration regarding Crosswalk Safety.
Thank you!
Helpful Links
About DEHS
Located near the Estrella Mountains, Desert Edge High School is the third high school in Agua Fria Union High School District, opening in the Fall of 2002. Desert Edge was the first "Green" Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certificate high school in Arizona, and the fourth in the nation.
Desert Edge is an A+ School of Excellence! (2016 and 2020). The A+ School of Excellence™ Program is a comprehensive school assessment program that celebrates outstanding schools and brings to light the positive stories and successes happening in public schools every day.
Desert Edge has consistently been awarded the Washington Post's America's Most Challenging High School and US News and World Report Best High School in America. Desert Edge is the only high school in Arizona to earn gold medal status in the Beat the Odds program for the 2018-2019 school year. Additionally, Desert Edge was recognized in 2019 for building "a college-going community" with The Most Innovative Player Award from the Governor’s Office of Education and The Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education.
Desert Edge is located on Estrella Parkway and Yuma Road near the Goodyear Ballpark, Spring Training home of the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians.
Website: www.aguafria.org/dehs
Location: 15778 West Yuma Road, Goodyear, AZ, USA
Phone: 623-932-7500