Sunday, October 29, 2023

Kickapoo announcements Oct. 30 - Nov. 3, 2023

Hello Kickapoo families,
A rainy weekend is leading to a freeze this week. . . make sure to bundle up students!
Week two of second quarter is upon us and we need you in school every day for optimum success.

As always, I send these announcements via Connect 5 text & email and Canvas inbox each weekend during the course of the school year. These announcements include several important items. However, they are not all inclusive. Please remember to check our social media and website for the most up to date information about clubs, athletics, and other important announcements.

Stay connected with Kickapoo in the following ways:
Facebook - Kickapoo High School
Twitter - @KickapooChiefs
Instagram - @KickapooHighSchool
Website - kickapoochiefs.org
Daily Announcements on our website and linked HERE. LOTS of info included for students & parents. Please check these frequently as they are updated daily.

* KHS 23 - 24 Bell Schedule
* KHS 23 - 24 Lunch Schedule
* Counseling Corner - Check this link for all things from the Counselors.
* District Scholarship Bulletin - This scholarship list is updated weekly. Questions - Connect with your KHS counselor.
* 2023-2024 School Calendar:
* Class of 2024 Kickapoo Graduation will be Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 7 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena
* Senior Cap & Gown orders - Jostens visited with Seniors on 
Thursday to provide a packet of information. The easiest way to order is online through their website and we have included a direct link below to the $18 Cap and Gown package (includes tassel). If you go directly through their site the $33 package with fancy tassel is at the top and it is difficult to find the basic package. You are free to order whatever else you would like, including announcements, we just wanted to make sure you know all that is needed is the basic package for $18. Link is HERE!

You can also place orders in person on Thursday, Nov. 9th during lunch.

* FREE ACT Prep Resources: 
Naviance provides a library of free ACT test resources and prep materials for SPS students. Watch how to access these materials to help your student be prepared.
* SPS High School Attendance Requirement for Dances. In order to attend a SPS dance students must meet the following requirements:
  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) by a determined date prior to the dance set by the high school site administration. Kickapoo's next dance is Friday, Feb. 9th, 2024. Students must have 90% or better attendance in order to purchase a ticket.
  • Must be in attendance the entire school day the day of the dance
  • Must not be serving ISS or OSS on the day of the dance
  • Major discipline infractions may result in non-admittance to the school dance
  • Pay ALL fines & fees in Financial office
* SPS High School Final Exam Exemption Requirements. Students are eligible for finals exemption by meeting the following criteria:
  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) per semester
  • Received no ISS or OSS for the semester
  • Passing the class with an 80% or greater prior to the final exam
  • Exempt students may take the final to improve their grade in a class; in this case, the final grade cannot hurt the student’s overall grade
  • Required to attend class during the final exam block and complete optional enrichment tasks provided
  • Dual credit, AP, and virtual classes are not eligible for final exemptions.
* Student Attendance - Thank you to everyone for being in school everyday. A reminder our goal is for all students to be in attendance 95% or more for the year.
Here is where we are as a school and by grade level for Week 10 and overall year-to-date as a school.
* Attendance - When should students not attend school? Check out this guidance from our school nurses.

When it comes to attendance, 90% is not an A.
When you do the math, 90% attendance is 20 school days missed. That’s 20 days of critically important lessons, support from teachers and memories with classmates.
And days add up -- students who are chronically absent are more likely to be suspended, struggle with learning and not graduate from high school. And tardiness counts, too. Those 5-10 minutes late each day adds up to almost 4 days per school year.
If you need support getting your child to school, we’re here to help. Make it a goal for your child to Attend Daily. On Time. All Day.
Every minute missed is a missed opportunity for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Make it a priority for students to be at school, on time, every day. Even one missed day a month can knock students off track.
Families should aim for 95% attendance or more for their child. That’s 9 missed days a year, or no more than one day a month. Any more can knock students off track and keep them from reaching their full potential.
* NO School for students - Monday, Nov. 6th & Tuesday, Nov. 7th for teacher Professional Learning.
* Thanksgiving Break - Monday, Nov. 20 - Friday, Nov. 24.
* KHS Student Expectations Matrix - Matrix
* Grading Scale for 9th graders ONLY - New this year for the Class of 2027 = no more + or - for letter grades. The following grade scale is in place for 9th grade ONLY.
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
59 or lower = F
* Students earn Credits EVERY 9 weeks. Please make sure you are monitoring grades via eSchool Home Access Center under the Classes Tab - login here.
* 1st Quarter Grades - Will be posted to eSchool Home Access this week. I will send a text & email when they are available. Login at the link above and click on Grades & then Report Card.
* Grades in Canvas are NOT the official grades for students. Teachers do grade items in Canvas. However, all grades are transferred to eSchool and these are the official grades.
* FREE Tutoring for all Kickapoo students, seated or online, is available in our library from 3:25 - 4:25 any day we are in session.
* PTA Reflections Contest - Are you an aspiring artist, author, choreographer, composer, filmmaker, or photographer? Would you like to be recognized for your talents? If so, then the PTA Reflections Competition may be for you! Students may submit entries to the KHS Reflections Competition until Nov. 10. School winners will be recognized and move on to the Springfield Council and state competitions. For more information and to enter online visit www.khsreflections.com.
* Financial Information: You may pay fines and fees at the financial office with Mrs. Liston. You may also view financial information and make payments online at https://www.sps.org/spsmyschoolbucks. Fines & fees shown in eSchool are not correct. You MUST go to My School Bucks.
* YEARBOOKS are on sale for $50 now through Jostens.com
* Student Parking - All students are to park in their assigned parking spot. If someone parks in your spot – DO NOT park in another numbered spot, (that becomes a domino effect) but park in a visitor spot. Students will then report the issue by filling out the sheet in the attendance office (door 18). Students must have an SPS parking decal and KHS hang tag to park on campus.
No decal or hang tag? Park on Jefferson Street in front of the baseball/practice field.
Do NOT park in STAFF, VISITOR, or HANDICAPPED SPOTS at KHS. Also, do NOT park at Gillenwater tennis courts, Birch Pointe across the street OR any of our local businesses parking lots. You may be fined, ticketed, or towed at your own expense.
* Have NOT purchased a Parking Permit yet? - We have 40 spots available. Students must have a valid driver’s license to purchase a parking permit – no permit drivers are allowed to purchase. Complete this Google form first. After completing the form you may go to the Financial office and see Mrs. Liston before school, during lunch, or after school to pay your $35 and pick your parking spot.
Once we are sold out we will start a waiting list as we will have more spots open up when students graduate early.
* Chromebook repair process - We have created a form for students to request a Chromebook so they can get theirs repaired. It is located in the Tribe Talk course in Canvas.
Please direct students to the link and have them complete the form. We will contact the students to come to the library to pick up or exchange their Chromebook. If they are unable to complete the form, please have a classmate or teacher complete the form for the student.
Let us know if you have any questions.
* Chromebooks - Students should bring a charged Chromebook to school each day. We are limited on the number of loaners we have and first priority goes to students needing repairs. Thank you.
* CANVAS HELP - Need help accessing and checking online learning with your student? Click here for a list of resources from SPS. You can also click here for a guide for “how-to” items for parents. Please be sure to reach out with questions as we navigate online learning.

*Reminders:
  • Any students needing WiFi can request a Kajeet hotspot through our library. 
  • Kickapoo will open our doors at 7:40 a.m. and first block begins at 8:10 a.m. every day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday.
  • Wednesday is late start for students so staff may participate in professional learning. Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. ALL BUSSES WILL RUN AT NORMAL TIMES.
  • Classes end at 3:10 p.m. every day.
  • All students should leave school/campus by 3:45 p.m. unless directly supervised by a teacher, coach, or sponsor.
  • Students should take home Chromebooks every day & Charge them each night.
  • Deliveries to school - Parents/guardians may deliver food and other items to school. We ask that you label and leave them on the table. Please communicate with your student to let them know items have been dropped off for them as we do not contact them.
  • NO food deliveries from outside vendors.
  • ID badges and dress code - ALL students must have an ID every day. Follow all dress code expectations. Cover ALL B's!
  • ALL students should have now received a NEW ID & Lanyard. IF they did not please have your student request one from a teacher or go to the ID badge room before school, during their lunch period, or immediately after school.
Again, the items I have listed above are NOT all inclusive.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to me and I will respond as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your patience, grace, and flexibility.
Take care and as always #GoChiefs!

Dr. Bill Powers
Principal
Kickapoo High School

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Kickapoo announcements Oct. 23 - 27, 2023

Hello Kickapoo families,

We hope our students enjoyed the three day weekend! 

Second quarter starts Monday, Oct. 23rd. If you have any quarter classes remember to check eSchool for your new quarter class schedule prior to Monday.

As always, I send these announcements via Connect 5 text & email and Canvas inbox each weekend during the course of the school year. These announcements include several important items. However, they are not all inclusive. Please remember to check our social media and website for the most up to date information about clubs, athletics, and other important announcements.

Stay connected with Kickapoo in the following ways:

Facebook - Kickapoo High School

Twitter - @KickapooChiefs

Instagram - @KickapooHighSchool

Website - kickapoochiefs.org

You can find our Daily Announcements on our website and linked HERE. LOTS of info included for students & parents. Please check these frequently as they are updated daily.

KHS 23 - 24 Bell Schedule 

KHS 23 - 24 Lunch Schedule

Counseling Corner - Check this link for all things from the Counselors. 

District Scholarship Bulletin - This scholarship list is updated weekly. Questions - Connect with your KHS counselor.

2023-2024 School Calendar: 

* Class of 2024 Kickapoo Graduation will be Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 7 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena

* SPS High School Attendance Requirement for Dances. In order to attend a SPS dance students must meet the following requirements: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) by a determined date prior to the dance set by the high school site administration. Kickapoo's next dance is Friday, Feb. 9th, 2024. Students must have 90% or better attendance in order to purchase a ticket.

  • Must be in attendance the entire school day the day of the dance

  • Must not be serving ISS or OSS on the day of the dance

  • Major discipline infractions may result in non-admittance to the school dance

  • Pay ALL fines & fees in Financial office 

* SPS High School Final Exam Exemption Requirements. Students are eligible for finals exemption by meeting the following criteria: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) per semester

  • Received no ISS or OSS for the semester

  • Passing the class with an 80% or greater prior to the final exam

    • Exempt students may take the final to improve their grade in a class; in this case, the final grade cannot hurt the student’s overall grade

  • Required to attend class during the final exam block and complete optional enrichment tasks provided 

Dual credit, AP, and virtual classes are not eligible for final exemptions.

* Student Attendance - Thank you to everyone for being in school everyday. A reminder our goal is for all students to be in attendance 95% or more for the year.
Here is where we are as a school and by grade level for Week 9 and overall year-to-date as a school.
* Attendance - When should students not attend school? Check out this guidance from our school nurses
When it comes to attendance, 90% is not an A.
When you do the math, 90% attendance is 20 school days missed. That’s 20 days of critically important lessons, support from teachers and memories with classmates.
And days add up -- students who are chronically absent are more likely to be suspended, struggle with learning and not graduate from high school. And tardiness counts, too. Those 5-10 minutes late each day adds up to almost 4 days per school year.
If you need support getting your child to school, we’re here to help. Make it a goal for your child to Attend Daily. On Time. All Day.
Every minute missed is a missed opportunity for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Make it a priority for students to be at school, on time, every day. Even one missed day a month can knock students off track.
Families should aim for 95% attendance or more for their child. That’s 9 missed days a year, or no more than one day a month. Any more can knock students off track and keep them from reaching their full potential.

* KHS Student Expectations Matrix - Matrix
* Grading Scale for 9th graders ONLY - New this year for the Class of 2027 = no more + or - for letter grades. The following grade scale is in place for 9th grade ONLY.
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
59 or lower = F

* Students earn Credits EVERY 9 weeks. Please make sure you are monitoring grades via eSchool Home Access Center under the Classes Tab - login here.
* Grades in Canvas are NOT the official grades for students. Teachers do grade items in Canvas. However, all grades are transferred to eSchool and these are the official grades.
* FREE Tutoring for all Kickapoo students, seated or online, is available in our library from 3:25 - 4:25 any day we are in session.
* Second Quarter - Begins Monday, Oct. 23rd.
* Picture retakes - Didn't take your picture or need retakes? Picture retake day is Thursday, Oct. 26th. Reminder these pictures are in the Yearbook without having to purchase. So, if you want to be in the yearbook you must have a picture taken.  
* PTA Reflections Contest - Are you an aspiring artist, author, choreographer, composer, filmmaker, or photographer? Would you like to be recognized for your talents? If so, then the PTA Reflections Competition may be for you! Students may submit entries to the KHS Reflections Competition until Nov. 10. School winners will be recognized and move on to the Springfield Council and state competitions. For more information and to enter online visit www.khsreflections.com.

* Financial Information: You may pay fines and fees at the financial office with Mrs. Liston. You may also view financial information and make payments online at https://www.sps.org/spsmyschoolbucks. Fines & fees shown in eSchool are not correct. You MUST go to My School Bucks.
* YEARBOOKS are on sale for $50 now through Jostens.com
* Support our Special Education Students - Pick-a-Project, “Grow Through Community Outings”, by donating here. https://www.supportsps.org/pick-a-project/growth-through-community-outings/
These outings provide our students real world opportunities to put their learning to work. Thank you for supporting them by donating today.
Juniors will be taking a full length Practice ACT test through Naviance on Thursday, October 26th! Please remind your student to charge their Chromebook the night before. This practice ACT will give them a projected ACT score and is NOT reported to colleges. Free Naviance ACT prep is open to all high school SPS students to access at any time.  
Michelle Rabinowitz, Kickapoo’s College and Career Access Specialist
* Student Parking - All students are to park in their assigned parking spot. If someone parks in your spot – DO NOT park in another numbered spot, (that becomes a domino effect) but park in a visitor spot. Students will then report the issue by filling out the sheet in the attendance office (door 18). Students must have an SPS parking decal and KHS hang tag to park on campus.
No decal or hang tag? Park on Jefferson Street in front of the baseball/practice field.
Do NOT park in STAFF, VISITOR, or HANDICAPPED SPOTS at KHS. Also, do NOT park at Gillenwater tennis courts, Birch Pointe across the street OR any of our local businesses parking lots. You may be fined, ticketed, or towed at your own expense.
* Have NOT purchased a Parking Permit yet - We have 40 spots available. Students must have a valid driver’s license to purchase a parking permit – no permit drivers are allowed to purchase. Complete this Google form first. After completing the form you may go to the Financial office and see Mrs. Liston before school, during lunch, or after school to pay your $35 and pick your parking spot.
Once we are sold out we will start a waiting list as we will have more spots open up when students graduate early.
* Chromebook repair process - We have created a form for students to request a Chromebook so they can get theirs repaired. It is located in the Tribe Talk course in Canvas.
Please direct students to the link and have them complete the form. We will contact the students to come to the library to pick up or exchange their Chromebook. If they are unable to complete the form, please have a classmate or teacher complete the form for the student.
Let us know if you have any questions.
* Chromebooks - Students should bring a charged Chromebook to school each day. We are limited on the number of loaners we have and first priority goes to students needing repairs. Thank you.
* CANVAS HELP - Need help accessing and checking online learning with your student? Click here for a list of resources from SPS. You can also click here for a guide for “how-to” items for parents. Please be sure to reach out with questions as we navigate online learning.
*Reminders:
  • Any students needing WiFi can request a Kajeet hotspot through our library.Kickapoo will open our doors at 7:40 a.m. and first block begins at 8:10 a.m. every day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday.
  • Wednesday is late start for students so staff may participate in professional learning. Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. ALL BUSSES WILL RUN AT NORMAL TIMES.
  • Classes end at 3:10 p.m. every day.
  • All students should leave school/campus by 3:45 p.m. unless directly supervised by a teacher, coach, or sponsor.
  • Students should take home Chromebooks every day & Charge them each night.
  • Deliveries to school - Parents/guardians may deliver food and other items to school. We ask that you label and leave them on the table. Please communicate with your student to let them know items have been dropped off for them as we do not contact them.
  • NO food deliveries from outside vendors.
  • ID badges and dress code - ALL students must have an ID every day. Follow all dress code expectations. Cover ALL B's!
  • ALL students should have now received a NEW ID & Lanyard. IF they did not please have your student request one from a teacher or go to the ID badge room before school, during their lunch period, or immediately after school.
Again, the items I have listed above are NOT all inclusive.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to me and I will respond as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your patience, grace, and flexibility.
Take care and as always #GoChiefs!

Dr. Bill Powers
Principal
Kickapoo High School

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Kickapoo announcements Oct. 16 - 20, 2023

Hello Kickapoo families,

We have made it to the final week of 1st quarter! First quarter ends Thursday, Oct. 19th and we have no school for students on Friday, Oct. 20th. As a reminder students DO earn credits each quarter. Being in school everyday makes a difference in learning as well. Thank you for doing your best to be in school and engaged each and every day!

Reminder, I will send these announcements via Connect 5 text & email and Canvas inbox each weekend during the course of the school year. These announcements include several important items. However, they are not all inclusive. Please remember to check our social media and website for the most up to date information about clubs, athletics, and other important announcements.

Stay connected with Kickapoo in the following ways:

Facebook - Kickapoo High School

Twitter - @KickapooChiefs

Instagram - @KickapooHighSchool

Website - kickapoochiefs.org

You can find our Daily Announcements on our website and linked HERE. LOTS of info included for students & parents. Please check these frequently as they are updated daily.

KHS 23 - 24 Bell Schedule 

KHS 23 - 24 Lunch Schedule

Counseling Corner - Check this link for all things from the Counselors. 

District Scholarship Bulletin - This scholarship list is updated weekly. Questions - Connect with your KHS counselor.

* Senior Quotes - Attention Seniors! All senior quotes are due by THIS FRIDAY, October 20th. Here's the link for the google form.

https://forms.gle/nekiDgPQ1ZaRwgvC9

Make sure this is school appropriate and doesn't exceed the 140 character limit.

Thank you! -Yearbook Staff

* Senior Headshots - Due THIS FRIDAY, Oct. 20th. Please read this closely for details. 

2023-2024 School Calendar: 

* Class of 2023 Kickapoo Graduation will be Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 7 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena

* SPS High School Attendance Requirement for Dances. In order to attend a SPS dance students must meet the following requirements: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) by a determined date prior to the dance set by the high school site administration. Kickapoo's next dance is Friday, Feb. 9th, 2024. Students must have 90% or better attendance in order to purchase a ticket.

  • Must be in attendance the entire school day the day of the dance

  • Must not be serving ISS or OSS on the day of the dance

  • Major discipline infractions may result in non-admittance to the school dance

  • Pay ALL fines & fees in Financial office 

* SPS High School Final Exam Exemption Requirements. Students are eligible for finals exemption by meeting the following criteria: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) per semester

  • Received no ISS or OSS for the semester

  • Passing the class with an 80% or greater prior to the final exam

    • Exempt students may take the final to improve their grade in a class; in this case, the final grade cannot hurt the student’s overall grade

  • Required to attend class during the final exam block and complete optional enrichment tasks provided 

Dual credit, AP, and virtual classes are not eligible for final exemptions.

* Student Attendance - Thank you to everyone for being in school everyday. A reminder our goal is for all students to be in attendance 95% or more for the year.
Here is where we are as a school and by grade level for Week 8 and overall year-to-date as a school.
* Attendance - When should students not attend school? Check out this guidance from our school nurses
When it comes to attendance, 90% is not an A.
When you do the math, 90% attendance is 20 school days missed. That’s 20 days of critically important lessons, support from teachers and memories with classmates.
And days add up -- students who are chronically absent are more likely to be suspended, struggle with learning and not graduate from high school. And tardiness counts, too. Those 5-10 minutes late each day adds up to almost 4 days per school year.
If you need support getting your child to school, we’re here to help. Make it a goal for your child to Attend Daily. On Time. All Day.
Every minute missed is a missed opportunity for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Make it a priority for students to be at school, on time, every day. Even one missed day a month can knock students off track.
Families should aim for 95% attendance or more for their child. That’s 9 missed days a year, or no more than one day a month. Any more can knock students off track and keep them from reaching their full potential.

* KHS Student Expectations Matrix - Matrix
Student IDs (High School Students) & Sporting Events for students in K through 12th grade - All five SPS high schools require students attending high school athletic events to follow the below expectations. These went into effect during the Fall of 2022 due to an increase in unsupervised students attending games and the district's desire to maintain orderly conduct. We want to ensure our students represent their school and SPS in the best possible manner.
  • All high school students must wear their school ID badges at home & away games.
  • All students, K-12, must remain in the STANDS during the game except to go to the restroom or concession stand.
  • All K-8 students must be accompanied by an adult.

High School Students who need a new ID badge can order one with their first block teacher or go to the ID badge room before school or during their lunch period to get one at any point during the school year.

* Grading Scale for 9th graders ONLY - New this year for the Class of 2027 = no more + or - for letter grades. The following grade scale is in place for 9th grade ONLY.
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
59 or lower = F

* Students earn Credits EVERY 9 weeks. Please make sure you are monitoring grades via eSchool Home Access Center under the Classes Tab - login here.
* Grades in Canvas are NOT the official grades for students. Teachers do grade items in Canvas. However, all grades are transferred to eSchool and these are the official grades.
* Progress Report - Our second progress report is available via eSchool Home Access Center as of Friday, Sept. 28th. You can login here and click on Grades Tab and then IPR.
* FREE Tutoring for all Kickapoo students, seated or online, is available in our library from 3:25 - 4:25 any day we are in session.
* AP Testing Fee - Students who are in an AP class and want to take the AP test this spring, please sign up with your teacher and pay $98 to Mrs. Liston in the financial office by THIS Thursday, Oct. 19. See Mrs. Helfrecht in the main office with questions.
* End of 1st Quarter - The last day of 1st quarter is Thursday, Oct. 19th. 
* NO School for Students - Friday, Oct. 20th is a professional work day for teachers and staff.
* Second Quarter - Begins Monday, Oct. 23rd.
* School Pictures - IF you ordered pictures they were delivered to students last week. If you have questions or concerns please contact Lifetouch directly at 417-883-2332. Thank you.
* Picture retakes - Didn't take your picture or need retakes? Picture retake day is Thursday, Oct. 26th. Reminder these pictures are in the Yearbook without having to purchase. So, if you want to be in the yearbook you must have a picture taken.  
* PTA Reflections Contest - Are you an aspiring artist, author, choreographer, composer, filmmaker, or photographer? Would you like to be recognized for your talents? If so, then the PTA Reflections Competition may be for you! Students may submit entries to the KHS Reflections Competition until Nov. 10. School winners will be recognized and move on to the Springfield Council and state competitions. For more information and to enter online visit www.khsreflections.com.

* Financial Information: You may pay fines and fees at the financial office with Mrs. Liston. You may also view financial information and make payments online at https://www.sps.org/spsmyschoolbucks. Fines & fees shown in eSchool are not correct. You MUST go to My School Bucks.
* YEARBOOKS are on sale for $50 now through Jostens.com
* Support our Special Education Students - Pick-a-Project, “Grow Through Community Outings”, by donating here. https://www.supportsps.org/pick-a-project/growth-through-community-outings/
These outings provide our students real world opportunities to put their learning to work. Thank you for supporting them by donating today.
Juniors will be taking a full length Practice ACT test through Naviance on Thursday, October 26th! Please remind your student to charge their Chromebook the night before. This practice ACT will give them a projected ACT score and is NOT reported to colleges. Free Naviance ACT prep is open to all high school SPS students to access at any time.  
Michelle Rabinowitz, Kickapoo’s College and Career Access Specialist
* Wednesday Late Start - Students MUST REMAIN ON CAMPUS. We have noticed some students being dropped off or riding the bus and then attempting to leave campus. Once a student is on school property they may NOT leave. Parents must pick up students or call the office to check their students out of school. Thank you.
* Wednesday Late Start - Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. on Wednesday's as our teachers engage in professional learning those mornings. Wednesday bell schedule is at the link above.
Please note BUSSES RUN AT NORMAL TIMES on Wednesday.
* Student Parking - All students are to park in their assigned parking spot. If someone parks in your spot – DO NOT park in another numbered spot, (that becomes a domino effect) but park in a visitor spot. Students will then report the issue by filling out the sheet in the attendance office (door 18). Students must have an SPS parking decal and KHS hang tag to park on campus.
No decal or hang tag? Park on Jefferson Street in front of the baseball/practice field.
Do NOT park in STAFF, VISITOR, or HANDICAPPED SPOTS at KHS. Also, do NOT park at Gillenwater tennis courts, Birch Pointe across the street OR any of our local businesses parking lots. You may be fined, ticketed, or towed at your own expense.
* Have NOT purchased a Parking Permit yet - We have 40 spots available. Students must have a valid driver’s license to purchase a parking permit – no permit drivers are allowed to purchase. Complete this Google form first. After completing the form you may go to the Financial office and see Mrs. Liston before school, during lunch, or after school to pay your $35 and pick your parking spot.
Once we are sold out we will start a waiting list as we will have more spots open up when students graduate early.
* Chromebook repair process - We have created a form for students to request a Chromebook so they can get theirs repaired. It is located in the Tribe Talk course in Canvas.
Please direct students to the link and have them complete the form. We will contact the students to come to the library to pick up or exchange their Chromebook. If they are unable to complete the form, please have a classmate or teacher complete the form for the student.
Let us know if you have any questions.
* Chromebooks - Students should bring a charged Chromebook to school each day. We are limited on the number of loaners we have and first priority goes to students needing repairs. Thank you.
* CANVAS HELP - Need help accessing and checking online learning with your student? Click here for a list of resources from SPS. You can also click here for a guide for “how-to” items for parents. Please be sure to reach out with questions as we navigate online learning.
*Reminders:
  • Any students needing WiFi can request a Kajeet hotspot through our library.Kickapoo will open our doors at 7:40 a.m. and first block begins at 8:10 a.m. every day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday.
  • Wednesday is late start for students so staff may participate in professional learning. Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. ALL BUSSES WILL RUN AT NORMAL TIMES.
  • Classes end at 3:10 p.m. every day.
  • All students should leave school/campus by 3:45 p.m. unless directly supervised by a teacher, coach, or sponsor.
  • Students should take home Chromebooks every day & Charge them each night.
  • Deliveries to school - Parents/guardians may deliver food and other items to school. We ask that you label and leave them on the table. Please communicate with your student to let them know items have been dropped off for them as we do not contact them.
  • NO food deliveries from outside vendors.
  • ID badges and dress code - ALL students must have an ID every day. Follow all dress code expectations. Cover ALL B's!
  • ALL students should have now received a NEW ID & Lanyard. IF they did not please have your student request one from a teacher or go to the ID badge room before school, during their lunch period, or immediately after school.
Again, the items I have listed above are NOT all inclusive.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to me and I will respond as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your patience, grace, and flexibility.
Take care and as always #GoChiefs!

Dr. Bill Powers
Principal
Kickapoo High School

Sunday, October 8, 2023

Kickapoo announcements Oct. 9 - 13, 2023

Hello Kickapoo families,

We have made it to the final nine days of 1st quarter! As a reminder students DO earn credits each quarter. Being in school everyday makes a difference in learning as well. Thank you for doing your best to be in school and engaged each and every day!

Reminder, I will send these announcements via Connect 5 text & email and Canvas inbox each weekend during the course of the school year. These announcements include several important items. However, they are not all inclusive. Please remember to check our social media and website for the most up to date information about clubs, athletics, and other important announcements.

Stay connected with Kickapoo in the following ways:

Facebook - Kickapoo High School

Twitter - @KickapooChiefs

Instagram - @KickapooHighSchool

Website - kickapoochiefs.org

You can find our Daily Announcements on our website and linked HERE. LOTS of info included for students & parents. Please check these frequently as they are updated daily.

KHS 23 - 24 Bell Schedule 

KHS 23 - 24 Lunch Schedule

Counseling Corner - Check this link for all things from the Counselors. 

* Senior Meeting - miss the Senior meeting? You can review the presentation here --> 23-24 Fall Senior Parent Meeting Presentation

District Scholarship Bulletin - This scholarship list is updated weekly. Questions - Connect with your KHS counselor.

* Senior Quotes - Attention Seniors! All senior quotes are due by October 20th. Here's the UPDATED link for the google form.

https://forms.gle/nekiDgPQ1ZaRwgvC9

Make sure this is school appropriate and doesn't exceed the 140 character limit.

Thank you! -Yearbook Staff

* Senior Headshots - Due Oct. 20th. Please read this closely for details. 

2023-2024 School Calendar: 

* Class of 2023 Kickapoo Graduation will be Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 7 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena

* SPS High School Attendance Requirement for Dances. In order to attend a SPS dance students must meet the following requirements: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) by a determined date prior to the dance set by the high school site administration. Kickapoo's next dance is Friday, Feb. 9th, 2024. Students must have 90% or better attendance in order to purchase a ticket.

  • Must be in attendance the entire school day the day of the dance

  • Must not be serving ISS or OSS on the day of the dance

  • Major discipline infractions may result in non-admittance to the school dance

  • Pay ALL fines & fees in Financial office 

* SPS High School Final Exam Exemption Requirements. Students are eligible for finals exemption by meeting the following criteria: 

  • 90% overall attendance (school-sponsored activities do not count as absences) per semester

  • Received no ISS or OSS for the semester

  • Passing the class with an 80% or greater prior to the final exam

    • Exempt students may take the final to improve their grade in a class; in this case, the final grade cannot hurt the student’s overall grade

  • Required to attend class during the final exam block and complete optional enrichment tasks provided 

Dual credit, AP, and virtual classes are not eligible for final exemptions.

* Student Attendance - Thank you to everyone for being in school everyday. A reminder our goal is for all students to be in attendance 95% or more for the year.
Here is where we are as a school and by grade level for Week 7 and overall year-to-date as a school.
* Attendance - When should students not attend school? Check out this guidance from our school nurses
When it comes to attendance, 90% is not an A.
When you do the math, 90% attendance is 20 school days missed. That’s 20 days of critically important lessons, support from teachers and memories with classmates.
And days add up -- students who are chronically absent are more likely to be suspended, struggle with learning and not graduate from high school. And tardiness counts, too. Those 5-10 minutes late each day adds up to almost 4 days per school year.
If you need support getting your child to school, we’re here to help. Make it a goal for your child to Attend Daily. On Time. All Day.
Every minute missed is a missed opportunity for students to learn, grow and achieve.
Make it a priority for students to be at school, on time, every day. Even one missed day a month can knock students off track.
Families should aim for 95% attendance or more for their child. That’s 9 missed days a year, or no more than one day a month. Any more can knock students off track and keep them from reaching their full potential.
* FREE Seasonal Flu Vaccine - We are hosting a free seasonal flu vaccine clinic on Monday, October 16, 2023 starting at 8 a.m. Permission forms and vaccine information sheets are posted on the school website. If you would like for your child to participate, please complete the permission form and return it to the school nurse with your student by Friday, Oct. 13th. Written parental consent is required for your child to participate.  There is no need to call to schedule an appointment.
* Parent Teacher Conferences -
Will be held Thursday, Oct. 12th from 3:30 - 7 p.m. Please call 417-523-8501 between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 9th - Thursday, Oct. 12th to schedule.

* Senior Parents: The Counselors will be available from 5:30 - 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 12th in the Commons to help you and your student request your FSA ID for the FAFSA. The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA is required by Post Secondary institutions to determine eligibility for financial student aid to include grants, loans, and work-study funds. The FSA ID (account username and password) is required and allows students and parents to identify themselves electronically to access Federal Student Aid websites. Requesting the FSA ID now will allow families to be ready to complete the FAFSA during the shortened FAFSA window this year. The FAFSA Completion window is scheduled to open December 31st. The FAFSA Priority Deadline will be February 1, 2024 for Missouri.

* KHS Student Expectations Matrix - Matrix
Student IDs (High School Students) & Sporting Events for students in K through 12th grade - All five SPS high schools require students attending high school athletic events to follow the below expectations. These went into effect during the Fall of 2022 due to an increase in unsupervised students attending games and the district's desire to maintain orderly conduct. We want to ensure our students represent their school and SPS in the best possible manner.
  • All high school students must wear their school ID badges at home & away games.
  • All students, K-12, must remain in the STANDS during the game except to go to the restroom or concession stand.
  • All K-8 students must be accompanied by an adult.

High School Students who need a new ID badge can order one with their first block teacher or go to the ID badge room before school or during their lunch period to get one at any point during the school year.

* Grading Scale for 9th graders ONLY - New this year for the Class of 2027 = no more + or - for letter grades. The following grade scale is in place for 9th grade ONLY.
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
59 or lower = F

* Students earn Credits EVERY 9 weeks. Please make sure you are monitoring grades via eSchool Home Access Center under the Classes Tab - login here.
* Grades in Canvas are NOT the official grades for students. Teachers do grade items in Canvas. However, all grades are transferred to eSchool and these are the official grades.
* Progress Report - Our second progress report is available via eSchool Home Access Center as of Friday, Sept. 28th. You can login here and click on Grades Tab and then IPR.
* FREE Tutoring for all Kickapoo students, seated or online, is available in our library from 3:25 - 4:25 any day we are in session.
* AP Testing Fee - Students who are in an AP class and want to take the AP test this spring, please sign up with your teacher and pay $98 to Mrs. Liston in the financial office by Friday, Oct. 20. See Mrs. Helfrecht in the main office with questions.
* End of 1st Quarter - The last day of 1st quarter is Thursday, Oct. 19th. 
* NO School for Students - Friday, Oct. 20th is a professional work day for teachers and staff.
* School Pictures - IF you ordered pictures they are being delivered to students this week. If you have questions or concerns please contact Lifetouch directly at 417-883-2332. Thank you.
* Picture retakes - Didn't take your picture or need retakes? Picture retake day is Thursday, Oct. 26th. 
* PTA Reflections Contest - Are you an aspiring artist, author, choreographer, composer, filmmaker, or photographer? Would you like to be recognized for your talents? If so, then the PTA Reflections Competition may be for you! Students may submit entries to the KHS Reflections Competition between October 2 - November 10. School winners will be recognized and move on to the Springfield Council and state competitions. For more information and to enter online visit www.khsreflections.com.

* Financial Information: You may pay fines and fees at the financial office with Mrs. Liston. You may also view financial information and make payments online at https://www.sps.org/spsmyschoolbucks. Fines & fees shown in eSchool are not correct. You MUST go to My School Bucks.
* YEARBOOKS are on sale for $50 now through Jostens.com
* Support our Special Education Students - Pick-a-Project, “Grow Through Community Outings”, by donating here. https://www.supportsps.org/pick-a-project/growth-through-community-outings/
These outings provide our students real world opportunities to put their learning to work. Thank you for supporting them by donating today.
* Naviance Update
KHS students have been working hard this semester in Naviance, our college and career platform!!

  • Freshmen in US History this semester have been making SMART Goals, exploring careers, and learning about themselves by taking the Gallup Strengths Explorer assessment and a Learning Styles assessment!   
  • Sophomores in World History this semester have been learning about themselves by taking a Skills assessment, a Personality assessment, making SMART goals, and exploring the college search tool.  
  • Juniors will be taking a full length Practice ACT test through Naviance on October 26th! Please remind your student to charge their Chromebook the night before. This will give them a projected ACT score and is not reported to colleges. Free Naviance ACT prep is open to all high school SPS students to access at any time.  

Ask your student to show you what they have been doing in Naviance!

Michelle Rabinowitz, Kickapoo’s College and Career Access Specialist
* Wednesday Late Start - Students MUST REMAIN ON CAMPUS. We have noticed some students being dropped off or riding the bus and then attempting to leave campus. Once a student is on school property they may NOT leave. Parents must pick up students or call the office to check their students out of school. Thank you.
* Wednesday Late Start - Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. on Wednesday's as our teachers engage in professional learning those mornings. Wednesday bell schedule is at the link above.
Please note BUSSES RUN AT NORMAL TIMES on Wednesday.
* Student Parking - All students are to park in their assigned parking spot. If someone parks in your spot – DO NOT park in another numbered spot, (that becomes a domino effect) but park in a visitor spot. Students will then report the issue by filling out the sheet in the attendance office (door 18). Students must have an SPS parking decal and KHS hang tag to park on campus.
No decal or hang tag? Park on Jefferson Street in front of the baseball/practice field.
Do NOT park in STAFF, VISITOR, or HANDICAPPED SPOTS at KHS. Also, do NOT park at Gillenwater tennis courts, Birch Pointe across the street OR any of our local businesses parking lots. You may be fined, ticketed, or towed at your own expense.
* Have NOT purchased a Parking Permit yet - We have 40 spots available. Students must have a valid driver’s license to purchase a parking permit – no permit drivers are allowed to purchase. Complete this Google form first. After completing the form you may go to the Financial office and see Mrs. Liston before school, during lunch, or after school to pay your $35 and pick your parking spot.
Once we are sold out we will start a waiting list as we will have more spots open up when students graduate early.
* Chromebook repair process - We have created a form for students to request a Chromebook so they can get theirs repaired. It is located in the Tribe Talk course in Canvas.
Please direct students to the link and have them complete the form. We will contact the students to come to the library to pick up or exchange their Chromebook. If they are unable to complete the form, please have a classmate or teacher complete the form for the student.
Let us know if you have any questions.
* Chromebooks - Students should bring a charged Chromebook to school each day. We are limited on the number of loaners we have and first priority goes to students needing repairs. Thank you.
* CANVAS HELP - Need help accessing and checking online learning with your student? Click here for a list of resources from SPS. You can also click here for a guide for “how-to” items for parents. Please be sure to reach out with questions as we navigate online learning.
*Reminders:
  • Any students needing WiFi can request a Kajeet hotspot through our library.Kickapoo will open our doors at 7:40 a.m. and first block begins at 8:10 a.m. every day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday.
  • Wednesday is late start for students so staff may participate in professional learning. Classes begin at 8:40 a.m. ALL BUSSES WILL RUN AT NORMAL TIMES.
  • Classes end at 3:10 p.m. every day.
  • All students should leave school/campus by 3:45 p.m. unless directly supervised by a teacher, coach, or sponsor.
  • Students should take home Chromebooks every day & Charge them each night.
  • Deliveries to school - Parents/guardians may deliver food and other items to school. We ask that you label and leave them on the table. Please communicate with your student to let them know items have been dropped off for them as we do not contact them.
  • NO food deliveries from outside vendors.
  • ID badges and dress code - ALL students must have an ID every day. Follow all dress code expectations. Cover ALL B's!
  • ALL students should have now received a NEW ID & Lanyard. IF they did not please have your student request one from a teacher or go to the ID badge room before school, during their lunch period, or immediately after school.
Again, the items I have listed above are NOT all inclusive.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to me and I will respond as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your patience, grace, and flexibility.
Take care and as always #GoChiefs!

Dr. Bill Powers
Principal
Kickapoo High School