KENNEBUNK HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER

89 Fletcher Street February/March 2014 Kennebunk, ME 04043 Telephone: 207-985-1110 Web address: http://www.rsu21.net/khs/ A Note from the Principal We look forward to seeing you at parent teacher conferences on March 12 (3:00 – 5:30 PM) and March 13 (3:00 – 8:00 PM). These conferences will provide you with an opportunity to meet with your son’s or daughter’s current teachers prior to course registration for next year. They can give you guidance in terms of the courses and/or levels that will benefit your student during the 2014-2015 school year. Once again, we will use the on-line sign-up procedure which has worked so well in the past. The process for signing up for these conferences is explained later in this newsletter.

Although we are in the midst of a cold and snowy winter, spring is on the horizon. And with spring will come events to celebrate student and teacher achievements. From “The Drowsy Chaperone” to the Art Exhibit, Winter Sports’ Awards, and Spirit Week, the KHS community will once again gather together for valued traditions. The exact dates and times of these events can be found on the school’s calendar at http://www.rsu21.net/khs-events.

The Kennebunk High School faculty and staff has maintained high academic standards for all students and supported those students by providing extra help before, during, and after school, as well as monitoring guided study halls. The learning center for all students thrives under the direction of Mrs. Kimball and Mrs. Mooney, and KHS PM under the direction of the special education staff and regular education teachers who offers another option for extra help. We are especially grateful for the academic support offered by coaches during this year under the leadership of our Athletic Director, Joseph Schwartzman. The efforts of Mr. Lewia and Mr. Suttie to help students find appropriate pathways to graduation has not gone unnoticed.

We are pleased to announce that we will offer two York County Community College classes on the KHS campus during the fall semester. Interested juniors and seniors will be able to enroll in sociology, and seniors will have the option of enrolling in English 101. These courses will be offered after school at a minimal cost to students and will provide dual credit meaning that the courses will count at KHS and will be transferrable to many colleges. We will also be adding a calculus-based physics class and an AP Biology class. These courses will enhance our Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Scholar Program which is highlighted later in this newsletter. Multiple sections of the semester class in financial literacy will be available for juniors and seniors next year to meet increased demands for the course.

Although the renovation referendum failed, we hope to go back to the voters in November to get a facility to support our programs. In the interim, I would like to thank the KHS faculty and staff for all of their efforts on behalf of students in spite of the facility. We also appreciate the support that we receive from parents and the greater community. Please continue to stay involved as you help us to provide the best possible educational experience for each of our students.

Sincerely,

Susan Cressey, Principal

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2014-2015 Course Registration We have begun the process of registering for courses for the upcoming academic year 2014-2015. On Monday and Tuesday after February vacation, February 24th and 25th, guidance counselors will visit Social Studies classes to present an overview of course selections and registration. Counselors will stress to students the importance of their being actively involved in this process which takes place throughout the month of March. All students will receive a “future planning” sheet to outline their high school plan. To assist students in grades 10 and 11 with their course selections, counselors will distribute copies of transcripts to students. Students should review these documents to assess their current status, in regard to credit earned and/or needed for graduation. Over a period of several weeks, students will receive academic counseling from advisors, classroom teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators. Each department has created an on-line video to describe the various courses of study that they offer. These videos will be posted on the KHS website. For course descriptions and pre-requisites, students should review the Program of Studies which will also be posted online on the KHS website after February vacation. Students must make careful and thoughtfully planned decisions so we can provide them with a master schedule that reflects the true needs of our students. On March 3rd and 4th, the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology will present its offerings to sophomores and juniors. During the week of March 3rd -7th, classroom teachers will discuss the courses that their particular department offers. This is a great time for students to ask clarifying questions about the various courses available to them. The following week, March 10th-14th, students will complete the course registration worksheet and obtain teacher recommendations and signatures. The PowerSchool registration portal will be open March 17th-21st and all 9th, 10th and 11th grade students will input their course selections during Advisory. Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent-teacher conferences will be held the afternoon of Wednesday, March 12 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and on Thursday, March 13 from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM. We are again using our online scheduling system where you, as parents or guardians, will be able to schedule your own conference times. We are suggesting that you schedule appointments with up to four teachers. The easy to follow, step-by-step instructions are below. If you have any questions or are in need of assistance in scheduling your conferences, please do not hesitate to call Mary Emmons in the main office, 985-1110, ext. 213. The Parent Scheduling Portal will open on Thursday, February 13, and close on Tuesday, March 11. 1. Go to https://sites.google.com/a/rsu21.net/khsptc/ 2. It is important to know who your student’s teachers are. You can refer to PowerSchool for current grades and

instructors’ names. 3. Carefully read the notice on the opening page. 4. Scroll down the page to find the teacher with whom you would like to schedule a conference. Click on the teacher

name to start the scheduler. 5. On the page, available times are indicated in blue. Unavailable times are marked with an X. Click on the available

time you would like to schedule keeping at least 10 minutes between appointments for travel time as well as part-time teacher availability. (See below.)

Bonnie Bushnell: Thursday 4:20–8:00 John DeSimone: Thursday 4:20–8:00 Lisa Farrell: Wednesday 3:00-6:30 Martha Foley: Thursday 4:20-8:00 Jill Lamontagne: Thursday 4:20-8:00 Melissa Luetje: Thursday 4:20–8:00 Linda Ruskoski: Thursday 4:20–8:00 Valerie Reid: Thursday 4:20–8:00 Anne Rodier: Thursday 4:20–8:00 Ginny Vatcher: Thursday 4:20-8:00

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6. Please fill out fields labeled, Your Name, Students’ Name, and Your Email. Enter the confirmation code in the Enter

Text field. Choose Confirm Booking when you are finished. You will repeat this process for each teacher you wish to schedule.

7. You will see a confirmation page of your appointment. You will also receive an email notification of the appointment (as well as a reminder email one day prior to the event). If you would like to schedule another event, click the here link on this page. If you have completed scheduling your appointments, you are all set.

8. Refer to your email account for sent confirmations. 9. Below is a graphic organizer to help you schedule your conferences. Again, please remember to allow ten minutes

between conferences to travel to your next appointment.

DATE TIME TEACHER

2014 Principal’s Award Kennebunk High School Principal Susan Cressey is proud to recognize Austin Weigle as the recipient of the 2014 Principal’s Award. Austin has been an integral member of the class of 2014. Elected to the Executive Council for the Class of 2014, Austin leads by example. He strives for excellence in everything he undertakes, and, as a scholar athlete, class leader, accomplished artist, and involved community citizen, Austin Weigle has been selected as Kennebunk High School’s 2014 Principal’s Award recipient. As such, he will be honored at a luncheon at the Bangor Spectacular Event Center on Saturday, April 5, 2014, along with a Principal’s Award recipient from every other public and private high school in the State of Maine. A scholar who will graduate in the top five percent of his class, Austin has chosen the most rigorous curriculum offered at KHS. He has taken a total of twelve college-level classes in his high school career. Last year, he traveled to the Bay of Fundy where he spent three days performing field research alongside marine biologists at the Huntsman Marine Science Center with his International Baccalaureate Environmental Systems class. Austin’s interests are varied and include creative writing, poetry, acting, chess, music, track, movies, and nature and sustainability. He plans to study plant science, either botany or agronomy. As president of the National Honor Society, Austin is a stand-out in the Class of 2014. He was the recipient of the Yale Book Award as a junior for his intellect, determination, motivation, and achievement and for being a visible member of his school and community. As a sophomore, Austin finished in the top 20 (out of 9,000) in the Maine “Poetry Out Loud” competition. Last summer, he performed original poems at a local Poetry Slam, competing with experienced adults from throughout Southern Maine. An accomplished athlete, Austin is a three-time Track and Field State Championship Medal Winner. Ranked number one in the state high jump, he has set a goal this year to jump 6’8”. Although Kennebunk does not sponsor an indoor track team, Austin traveled to a neighboring school for training. He spent last summer as a volunteer track coach at the Kennebunk Parks and Recreation Summer Youth Track and Field Program. Austin Weigle’s work ethic, skills, and enthusiasm, as well as his strong character and sense of humor, make him a well-respected leader and deserving recipient of the 2014 Principal’s Award. News from the Guidance Department 9th Grade Students Early this spring, ninth grade students will be introduced to Naviance, a web-based comprehensive college and career planning system. Students will use the program to complete a personality inventory. Please encourage your student to make an appointment with his/her counselor prior to the end of the school year. We are looking forward to getting to know them.

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10th Grade Students Students in grade ten continue to work with the Naviance program to complete a career interest survey in their English classes. This information will help guide them to possible career areas for further exploration. On Monday, March 3rd, representatives from Biddeford Regional Center of Technology will come to KHS to present information on programs available to all incoming juniors. Interested students can pick up application materials that day. 11th Grade Students On Tuesday, March 4th, representatives from Biddeford Regional Center of Technology will come to KHS to present information on programs available to incoming seniors. Any interested juniors should attend this presentation in the auditorium during advisory. Application materials will be available at this session. All third year students will take the SATs at Kennebunk High School on Saturday, May 3rd, 2014. Students should NOT register for this May test as registration will be completed electronically through the school. Students must be at school by 7:30 am. The testing will run approximately four hours. We encourage students to use their PSAT score reports and booklets to help prepare for the upcoming testing. www.collegeboard.com offers students free test preparation. Counselors have been meeting with juniors and their parents to begin the process of post- secondary planning. If you would like to schedule a meeting, please contact the Guidance Office. On Thursday, April 17th we will be attending a NEACAC College Fair at Thornton Academy allowing students to meet with college admission representatives. Students will be given an opportunity to sign up for this event through the Guidance Department. 12th Grade Students Please continue discussions with your guidance counselor regarding post-secondary planning and continue to notify your counselor of your responses from colleges. The local scholarship packet will be distributed to all seniors during advisory the first week of April. Completed applications will be due in Guidance on Wednesday, April 23rd. Please refer to the senior memos on the RSU 21 website for additional scholarship opportunities. Maine Science Augmentation Test The MHSA Science Augmentation is the first of two assessments required by the state of Maine for all third year students. The second portion of the required assessment is the SAT which will be administered on Saturday morning, May 3rd. This year the MHSA Science Augmentation test for all third year students will take place on Wednesday, March 26th during blocks 1 and 2. Freshmen, sophomores and seniors will attend their regularly scheduled classes. This is a Late Start Wednesday and testing will begin promptly at 9 AM. Students should be well rested, eat breakfast, and arrive on time with two #2 pencils. Students will have been advised of their testing location in advance. Third year students will report directly to their testing rooms. Several lists of student names and test locations will also be posted around the school. U. S. Presidential Scholars Program Margaret J. Carroll, a graduating senior at Kennebunk High School, has been named one of more than 3,000 candidates in the 2014 U. S. Presidential Scholars Program. The Candidates were selected from nearly 3.4 million students expected to graduate from U. S. high schools in the year 2014. Inclusion in the U. S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 50th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities. Over 3,000 candidates were selected for their exceptional performance on either the College Board SAT or the ACT Assessment. In addition, each Chief State School Officer (CSSO) was invited to nominate three male and three female candidates, based on their outstanding scholarship, residing in the CSSO’s jurisdiction. Further consideration is based on students’ essays, self-assessments, descriptions of activities, school recommendations, and school transcripts. A distinguished panel of educators will review these submissions and select 560 semifinalists in early April. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will make final selection of the Scholars. They will select one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U. S. students living abroad; 15 students at-large; and up to 20 students from the creative and performing arts. The U. S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

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Scholars will be invited to Washington, D. C., for several days in June to receive the Presidential Scholars Medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in events and activities with their elected representatives, educators, and other leading individuals in public life. Margaret Carroll is the daughter of Michael and Anita Carroll of Kennebunkport. For more information about the U. S. Presidential Scholars Program, parents and students can call the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office at (319) 688-4345, or send an e-mail to PSP@act.org. Class of 2014 Slideshow The before and after picture deadline for the senior slideshow is Friday, March 28. This could include a current picture of your student or a reenacted photo from the past. Friend pictures are also welcomed along with any group photos. Please have those pictures in to the slideshow staff before the deadline. Make sure they are at least 300 dpi. You can send your pictures to: khssideshow2014@gmail.com Senior Auction The Project Graduation Committee met throughout the summer to plan an action- packed, engaging and safe night of celebration for the Class of 2014. Our class has been actively and successfully, raising money for three years, but there is still work to do. As you might imagine, plans being formulated for Project Graduation require a significant financial commitment. To that end, there will be a number of fundraising events held over the next few months. The Senior Auction, the Senior Class’ largest fundraising event of the year, is going to be held on March 6 at 6:30 pm. Those of you who have “been through this before” may recognize that this event is being held earlier in the school year than it was in years past. We would like to offer more student auction experiences (babysitting, tutoring, snow shoveling, etc.) that may require students to be available during the school year. Also, the earlier we hold the event, the sooner we will know the financial result. Our goal would be to complete our fundraising efforts well before the end of the school year. Our first task is to collect items and we need your help! In the past, *Business owners have donated gift certificates, services, tickets to sporting events and merchandise. We are looking for volunteers who are willing to approach businesses to request donations *Artists and crafters have donated jewelry, paintings and crafts *Parents have teamed up to create gift baskets *Parents have donated gift cards, time-share or vacation homes, tickets to sports events and made cash contributions *Parents have volunteered on the afternoon and night of the event Thank you to those of you who have contacted us and donated items to the auction. We are looking for strong support from each parent of the Class of 2014. Our deadline for collection is February 14th. Please consider your contribution to the Senior Auction today. Call or email with any questions. Thank you in advance, Class of 2014 Senior Auction Committee jenikingston@mac.com 207-590-1453 theprices@gwi.net 207-468-0877

STEM Scholar Program Kennebunk High School is pleased to announce the creation of its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Program. Under the leadership of Alan Carp, KHS’s STEM coordinator, three pathways have been developed which will provide students the opportunity to earn a STEM certificate upon graduation, should they complete courses as described in the chart below.

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KHS STEM Scholar Program Pathways

The KHS STEM Scholar Program will provide high school students the opportunity to earn a STEM Certificate upon graduation, should they successfully complete the requirements. A STEM Certificate will be awarded based on the following guidelines:

• Minimum of 10 credits listed in progression, with four coming from both math and science, and two from the STEM Electives • Maximum of 2 credits for courses taken under the Pass/Fail option

A STEM Certificate with Honors will be awarded based on the following guidelines: • Minimum of 16 credits listed in progression, with a minimum of four coming from both the math and science columns and the remainder from STEM Electives.

• No classes taken Pass/Fail • Minimum weighted GPA of 3.0 in STEM Scholar classes

A STEM Certificate with Distinction will be awarded based on the following guidelines: • Minimum of 16 credits listed in progression, with four coming from both math and science, and the remainder from STEM Electives

• No classes taken pass/fail • Minimum weighted GPA of 3.0 in STEM Scholar classes • Participation for at least one year on math team, robotics club, entrance to approved science fair, or other approved project outside of school hours

The pass/fail option is administered as follows:

• Pass/Fail requirement maximum of one class per semester for a total of two credits • Pass/Fail would not count toward a math or science graduation requirement

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• Grade of Pass awarded based on demonstrated proficiency Courses that may be taken as Pass/Fail:

AP Calculus AB and BC AP Chemistry AP Computer Science AP Biology AP Statistics Calculus-Based Physics

Multivariable Calculus—Directed Study

A student may enroll in courses offered by other accredited educational institutions with prior approval by the high school principal. KHS will continue to consult with colleges regarding the STEM Scholar Program Certificate to ensure that our graduates are given consideration for their focus and advanced studies in the STEM disciplines. Support for the KHS STEM Scholar Program has already been realized from collaborations with UNE and the University of Maine, Brunswick campus. The Kennebunk High School Visual Arts Department We would like to invite everyone to our annual student art exhibit, “Untitled” An All-Inclusive Show. Each art student in grades 9-12 will select from their portfolio of works at least one piece to prepare for display. A range of media, techniques and styles from 2D drawings and paintings to 3D clay sculptures and jewelry will be on view. Please join us in celebrating the creativity and talent of our students on Thursday February 27 from 5:00-7:00 pm in the KHS Art Wing in Building C. Light refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there! KHS Student Art Calendar The KHS Art Department has created a 2014-2015 calendar highlighting KHS student work. The price has been lowered for a quick sale: 1 for $10 or 2 for $18. 100% of the proceeds go directly to the VPA Boosters to support the Visual and Performing Arts at KHS. Stop by the main office and buy your copy today! Thank you for supporting the Arts in our school! Scholastic Art and Writing Awards 2014 The results are in, and nine KHS art students earned recognition for their artwork at the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Regional Competition! The awards fall into three categories: Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mention. In all, our students earned 2 Gold, 4 Silver and 4 Honorable Mentions. Artworks are photographed and then submitted digitally to the Northeast Region-at-Large which includes all of the New England states plus New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania. Works are then juried by a panel of professionals in the visual arts on originality, technical skill and emergence of personal vision or voice. Gold Key artworks are automatically entered into the national competition. Winners at this event will be announced on March 17, 2014. Congratulations to all those who earned awards and a word of appreciation to every single student who put forth the effort to get their work “out there” and seen. We are proud of all of you! Mrs. Mooney (IB, Advanced Art): Gabrielle Brown, Gold Key- Painting Kaitlin Thibeau, Honorable Mention-Mixed Media Mrs. Robinson (Metalsmithing): Zanna Spinney, Silver Key-Jewelry Gabrielle White, Honorable Mention-Jewelry Ms. Rollerson (Art Foundations, Art Foundations Honors, AP Studio Art): Kylee Solari, Gold Key-Painting Kylee Solari, Silver Key-Drawing Chloe Burrows-Brown, Silver Key-Ceramics Morgan Campbell, Silver Key-Portfolio Hannah Richelieu, Honorable Mention-Ceramics Crystal Sandmire, Honorable Mention-Drawing

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Shaelan Donovan Alexander Vesenka Chloe Burrows-Brown, Samantha Morin & Alec Barry K.H.S. Students Win the York County Coast Star’s News Box Contest It all started way back in October when Art Teacher Katie Mooney was contacted by Dennis Thompson, the Circulation Director For Seacoast Media Group and the York County Coast Star, about the contest. Mrs. Mooney thought it was a great idea and shared it with the Art Department and our students. The high school was invited to participate in a contest to decorate and paint a newspaper box. Artists were asked to bring beauty and fun to an ordinary, overlooked, functional object. Two of Mrs. Mooney’s IB Studio Art students were interested in the competition, and each asked for one box each to paint. Three of Mrs. Robinson’s Advanced Art students were interested and chose to work as a team designing and painting one box. Two other artists from the community also entered the news box design contest. Readers of The York County Coast Star and the Seacoast Media Group did all the voting on-line choosing their favorite. The readers voted, and our KHS students were the big winners! First place with the most votes went to Shaelan Donovan (the box on the left with the delicate green trees). She won top prize of $500! In second place was the news box painted by Alexander Vesenka (the box in the center with bumble bees). He won a $300 prize! Third place was the news box painted by the team of Chloe Burrows-Brown, Samantha Morin, and Alec Barry (the box on the right representing the seasons in Maine). They will share $200 in prize winnings. A very special thank you to the York County Coast Star and the Seacoast Media Group and especially Mr. Dennis Thompson for opening this opportunity to our Art Students. Also, thank you for all the voters who supported the work of our KHS Art students. P lay Poster Design Contest Louise Holway's poster design was selected as the winner in the play poster design contest that was presented to both the Art Foundations Digital Media classes by Mr. Potvin. Her design will be used as the poster for the upcoming KHS Musical "The Drowsy Chaperone". All-State Acoustic Festival Kyle Ryan auditioned and was selected to the Maine All-State Acoustic Music Festival on accordion. He will be joining other talented Maine musicians to form the 2014 Celtic/Irish Ensemble in a two day workshop with a master teacher, followed by a final concert. The final showcase will be on March 29 at Hannaford Hall in Portland.

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KHS Spring Musical

Mix-ups, mayhem, and four crazy weddings make up the plot of this 2006 Tony Award-winning musical. Drowsy Chaperone does include adult humor and situations; parental guidance is recommended. Prepare to laugh heartily while you enjoy dazzling choreography, fantastic 1920's costumes, and big smiles from an enthusiastic high school cast! Feb. 28, March 1, 7, 8 @ 7:00 PM March 2 & 9 @ 2 PM Matinee Alexander Economos Auditorium - Kennebunk High School All Tickets are $9.00 Please call 985.1110 ext. 3141 to reserve tickets www.musicatkhs.com/musical.html

The Muse The Muse, Kennebunk High School’s Literary Arts publication, has recently received national recognition as an outstanding student literary publication. The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and its Program to Recognize Excellence in Student Literary Magazines (PRESLM), recently identified the 2013 edition of The Muse as an “Excellent”, the second highest award it gives. It is the highest level the magazine has been granted to date.

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Model United Nations Team The K.H.S. Model United Nations team travelled to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to participate in the Model United Nations Conference (MITMUNC) February 7-9. This conference was attended by approximately 700 students from 12 different countries and provided students with a chance to work on building resolutions for some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Although each of the 18 K.H.S. students performed well, the following K.H.S. delegates were recognized at the closing ceremonies for individual excellence.

Caleb Eickman Most Outstanding Delegate Meggie Carroll Most Honorable Delegate Kaitlyn Anderson Most Honorable Delegate Josh Kuun Best Position Paper, Verbal Commendation Shaelan Donovan Best Position Paper Jansen Manahan Verbal Commendation Sarah O’Connell Verbal Commendation Biddeford Regional Center of Technology Dual Enrollment Program On Thursday evening, January 30, Andrew Doyle and Tessa Johnson were honored by The Business Academy of the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology for earning transferable college credits while enrolled in classes at BRCOT. Governor LePage spoke about the benefits of the dual enrollment program. Andrew Doyle received Thomas College credit for Accounting 111 and Business Management/Entrepreneurship 224. Tessa Johnson received Thomas College credit for Accounting111 and Northern Maine Community College credit for Personal Finance which will count as BUS 114 at Northern Maine Community College. Andrew Doyle was also nominated for Student of the Month from Business & Financial Management. The Biddeford Regional Center of Technology will be at KHS on March 3 and 4 to give an overview of its programs to interested sophomores and juniors. Students should see their guidance counselors for more information. Marijuana Research, Data, and Related Issues The district’s Prevention Activities Team will be hosting an evening for parents on March 25th at 6:30 PM at Kennebunk Elementary School. This seminar will be open to district parents K-12. The focus will be on educating parents about marijuana research, data and other related issues. Functional Life Skills Program (FLS) This KHS program of studies helps students attain knowledge and develop skills which will enable them to be individuals who can live and contribute successfully within their communities. Students participating in these classes have the opportunity to be life-long learners and creative individuals. FLS students have organized "Incredible Edibles," through which they sell their own "home-baked" treats. The profits have allowed them to contribute to the Ethan Houle Fundraiser and the memorial to Jacob Gould. The Science class offers Robotics and in English class, at the end of the individual reading challenge, more than 2,000 pages were read within a month. Using technology, students Skyped with a Pakistani citizen. Each of them asked questions about everyday life in that country and shared the cultural similarities and differences of people in the U.S.A and Pakistan. FLS programs keep students intellectually active, and they also support each other as friends in social gatherings. In December, some of the "Incredible Edible" profits went toward a bowling trip and, during one of the A lunches, they had a pizza party together. If you would like to know more about FLS projects, you can read their bi-monthly newsletter - Teen Talk- 42. The next publication is in March. Copies will available in room 42.

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News from the Alternative Education Program On January 24th, two of the Alternative Education Program’s students earned their diplomas. Principal Susan Cressey was there to hand out the diplomas and was accompanied by Assistant Principal Bruce Lewia who gave the commencement address. Cody Boudreau and Curtis Cole graduated surrounded by their classmates, friends, family, and KHS staff. Both students were at-risk of dropping out of school, but they were able to graduate after completing two semesters and the summer program. They are both planning on working locally. January marked the one-year anniversary of the program. Students have completed a driver education course and earned their open water diving certifications. They also researched, designed, and built a learning trail that is open to the public. This project was a cross-curriculum collaboration with Melissa Luetje’s science classes and the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (KPCT). The alternative program has participated in a multitude of other off-campus, community-related projects including the new KBIA playground at Mothers’ Beach. The program has been thriving with 12 students since its inception. It offers students a hands-on experiential learning program with an adaptive curriculum that is being developed and designed with common core standards in mind. During the fall semester, students designed, constructed, and delivered an 8’x’8‘x16’ shed to Kennebunk Elementary School. Students also cut out, predrilled and packaged for assembly 32 bird feeders that will be put together by Consolidated School Children participating in the ‘Trust in Our Children’s program run by Education Director Leia Lowry of the KPCT.

The students are now finishing the metal roof on a post and beam barn in Acton. Students have had a chance to climb up on the post and beam barn in harnesses to install the roofing. They also just ordered the materials to construct an 18‘x18’ roof for the town of Acton’s salt shed. The program provides an alternative method for at-risk youth to attain their high school diplomas so they may actively continue on as contributing members of the community. It exposes them to a variety of career pathways and learning platforms that will lead to them to meaningful and successful lives. The program owes its success to the support of the community and the vision of the administration. The alternative education students and teachers look forward to participating in future projects within RSU21 and surrounding communities. News from the Athletic Department

• Winter Sports Awards are March 11, 6:30 PM in Gym A • Baseball/Softball Pitchers and Catchers Start on March 24 • All Spring Sports start on March 31

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KHS Debate Team The Debate Team, under the direction of Mr. Paul Bibeau, finished 5th at the State Championships. They had a 3rd place result in the House from Joe Beaudoin, with Julie Ludwig 7th and Caroline Hoch 8th. Caleb Eickmann was 7th in the Senate, and Kyle Ryan was 8th. These were great results for a first year team. Physical Education New s Our P.E. Department received a grant from the Mount Abrams Ski Club in the amount of $2,500. The primary goal is to get our students out and active during the winter. The club will pay for lift tickets, lessons, and equipment rentals for skiing or snowboarding. We can take 80 students over two trips. Students are expected to provide their own lunch. This was offered to all P.E. students in our Lifetime and Outdoor Ed classes. Our first trip is Thursday, February 13 and then again on March 7. In addition, our P.E. classes have benefited from a grant from the Education Foundation of the Kennebunks and Arundel for 24 pairs of L.L. Bean snowshoes. The goal is to keep outdoor activities for years to come for our classes. News from Mrs. Ryan’s Advisory As part of an ongoing discussion in advisory about random acts of kindness, students decided it would be nice to make holiday cards for residents at Huntington Common who may not have family. Thirty-seven cards were made and delivered just before Christmas. Students enjoyed the card making process so much that it was decided they would make Valentine’s cards for the same residents. News of the card project spread, and Mrs. Garnett’s advisory joined in the fun helping to make Valentine’s cards as well.

Katherine Richard & Sienna Roberge Opportunities to Host

The Maine Irish Children’s Program (MICP) is looking for families to host students for the month of July 2014. If you are interested in hosting a student from Northern Ireland or would like more information on this program, please contact Robin Vaughan at robinvaughan@hotmail.com or call 207-985-7596 and leave a voice mail. These students range from 13 – 17 years of age. Kennebunk High School has a unique opportunity to host three students from the CCIEE Program for this upcoming school year. There will be two boys and one girl needing host families from Kennebunk. The boys are from Finland and the Czech Republic and want to learn more about the United States as well as teach us about their country and culture. They are both looking forward to playing ice hockey here since they have been playing in their countries since their youth. They are also interested in soccer and football as well as other extra –curricular activities we have to offer. The girl is from Germany and would love to come here to learn about us, teach us about Germany, possibly play volleyball and be involved in other extra-curricular activities. If you are interested in hosting and /or would like more information, please contact Robin Vaughan by emailing rvaughan@rsu21.net or call 207-985-7596 and leave a message.

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News From RSU21 Adult Education Consider some of these upcoming classes; the snow won’t last forever! Call the Adult Education office at 985-1116 to register or for more information. The full Winter-Spring 2014 schedule is available on www.rsu21.net, click on the “Departments” tab and then click on “Adult Education”. Old English Poetry – Thursday, February 13, 6:00-7:30. BOKWA – a new fun way to exercise. A six-class session start Monday, February 24, 6:15-7:15. (Drop-ins: please call 985-1116 to let us know you are coming.) Looking for Work – a three-class session to help you prepare your resume, cover letter and job search skills. Wednesdays, February 26, March 5, March 12, 6:30-8:30. PowerPoint – Learn to prepare, create and deliver a presentation. A five class-session begins February 27, 6:00-8:00 Art of Soulful Writing – a three-class session starting Thursday, February 27, 6:00-8:00. Falun Gong – Monday, March 3, 6:30-8:30. Wired Jewelry – a three-class session beginning March 4, 6:30-9:00. Beginning Drawing – a five-class session beginning Wednesday, March 5, 6:30-8:30. Tax Night for Students – Wednesday, March 5, 6:30-8:30. Holistic Energy Healing – Wednesday, March 5, 6:00-8:30. Beginning Leatherworking – a five-class session beginning Thursday, March 6, 6:00-9:00. Affordable Health Care – Monday, March 10, 6:00-7:30. Bike Tune-up – Monday, March 10, 5:30-7:00. Beaded Ladder Bracelet – Tuesday, March 11, 6:00-8:30. Intro to Genealogical Research – Tuesday, March 11, 6:00-8:15. Maine Driving Dynamics – Tuesday, March 11, AND Thursday, March 13, 6:00-8:30. First-Time Home Buyers – Wednesday, March 12, 6:00-8:00. Hearty Soups – Monday, March 17, 6:00-8:00. Writing for Publication – a five-class session beginning Tuesday, March 18, 6:00-7:30. Start a New Business – Wednesday, March 19, 6:00-8:30. Retirement Income Planning – a four-class session starting Wednesday, March 19, 6:00-7:00. Chickens for You – Learn about the advantages of raising your own chickens… Thursday, March 20, 6:30-8:00. Past Life Experiences – a six-class session beginning Tuesday, March 25, 7:00-9:00. Intro to Crystals – Wednesday, March 26, 6:00-8:30. How Not to Look Old – with the Right Colors – Wednesday, March 26, 6:00-9:00. Beaded Leather Wrap Bracelet – Thursday, March 27, 6:00-8:30. Intro to Beekeeping-Tuesday, March 5, 6:30-8:30, 1 class. Beekeeping for Beginners-a 6-class session beginning Thursday, March 20, 6:30-8:30

Where Are They Now? Please send news of KHS graduates to Susan Cressey at scressey@rsu21.net or mail the info to her at KHS, 89 Fletcher Street, Kennebunk, ME. Diana Campbell, an exercise science major, was recognized for outstanding academic achievement during the 2013 fall semester at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, NH. Timothy Bath graduated from Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI. Kyle Hall and Korey Pow were name to the dean’s list at Saint Joseph’s College in Standish, ME.

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Nick Cabral was recognized at the annual Celebration of Achievement at Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, ME, as an American Bureau of Shipping Scholar. Erin McCluskey was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. Chris Hoch was selected to the Tau Gamma Chapter of the national honor society, Pi Sigma Alpha, at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY. Victoria Leach graduated cum laude from Union College in Schenectady, NY. Kaitlyn Lang graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, PA. William Foley earned highest honors from the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH. Mariah Cummings, Martha Dempsey, Mary Dempsey, Sean Oddy, and Belle Stewart earned high honors at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH. Kimberlee Meserve earned honors at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH. Caitrin Smith earned high honors for the fall 2013 semester at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana. Matthew Mason graduated magna cum laude from the University of Vermont in Burlington, VT. Colby Harrison and Nina Tupper were named to the dean’s list at Bates College in Lewiston, ME. Eliza Dollard was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT. Katherine Cotton was named to the dean’s list at Nichols College in Dudley, MA for the fall semester. She achieved high honors. Kathryn Campbell was named to the president’s list at Western New England University for the fall semester. Erik Leslie, a chemical engineering major at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan, was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester. Robert Eckland has been named to the dean’s list in the University of Notre Dame’s College of Arts and Letters for the fall semester. Students who achieve dean’s honors at Notre Dame represent the top 30 percent of students in their college. John Burns was named to the dean's list at American University for the fall semester.