DGSD Focuses on Improved Attendance

A special section of Delta Wind August 10, 2017 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Thursday, August 17 FIRST DAY OF KINDERGARTEN Tuesday, August 22 DGSD focuses on improved attendance Based on attendance 631 students who were other students and amongst rates are very good, but we provide families and staff records for the 2016-17 enrolled for the full year students. Completing the can do even better by ad- opportunities to take care of school-year, 28 percent of met the state target of 95 written course work does justing how we do business. business without having to the students attending our percent attendance. These not complete the picture. It The district will work miss school or work time. schools missed more than students and their parents is only one part of the full toward reducing classroom Clearly, if children are ten percent of the days they are to be commended for classroom experience. disruptions and minimizing to receive the maximum were enrolled. By defini- their commitment to edu- In addition to student staff absences for coach- benefit from their education, tion, this means they were cation. attendance, DGSD is ing, meetings, and optional there must be a commit- “chronically” absent. The Absence from school focusing on maximizing staff trainings that can be sched- ment to prioritizing school “chronic” absence level is results in students missing attendance. The important uled outside of the instruc- where research indicates the direct instruction from role that a good teacher tional time. attendance. This commit- absences are likely to sig- a professional teacher. plays in the education of a The calendar this year ment needs to come from nificantly impede a child’s Students do not reap the student has been well docu- also includes three non- staff, parents, and students. education. benefit of learning from the mented in research. DGSD school days that are scat- Let’s make this a year for Twenty percent of Del- questions and discussions teachers are very commit- tered throughout the calen- great education in Delta/ ta/Greely School District’s between the teacher and ted, and overall attendance dar. These are intended to Greely. Attendance Every Day

WHY SHOULD WHAT CAN WE FOCUS ON PARENTS DO? ATTENDANCE? • Help your child get into the habit and learn the value of regular routines. • Children can’t learn if they aren’t present in school, so attendance • Teach your child that attending school is is a must. nonnegotiable unless they are truly sick. • We can influence attendance, • Build relationships with other families and and poor attendance can be discuss how you can help each other out prevented. (e.g., drop off or pick up children, babysit, translation assistance) in times of need or • Parents – especially in the early emergencies. years – are best positioned to ensure children attend school and • Identify non-academic activities (drama, to build the expectation around art, music, etc.) that can help motivate your attendance. child’s interest in school.

Bus company receives perfect inspection scores First Student bus service has made a surprise visit to Delta to passed its bi-annual DOT inspec- SCHOOL BUS ROUTES ON PAGE 5 oversee the inspection for himself. tion with a 100 percent rating, and Inspections from DOT are thor- that is not the first perfect score for ough, Hanson said. They check inte- the Delta Junction branch. The stan- rior and exterior lighting, break pads, dards are held high when it comes to a complete check on the engine, student safety. security of interior items (seats, bins, Delta Area Manager Christie everything has to be bolted securely Hanson credits the hard-working to the floor), doors, windows – from staff of drivers and monitors for the top to bottom, nothing is left out of high score. A perfect score couldn’t the inspection. be achieved, she says, without their “And the alarms,” added driver diligence to maintenance and aware- Rena Case, referencing the alarms ness of the needs of the vehicles. for fire evacuation, exterior doors, “Inspections can be stressful,” and steering wheel horn. “If the she said after the scores came out. alarms don’t work, the bus doesn’t David Chapfield, First Student’s go.” regional head of maintenance and The buses are scheduled to be mechanic for Alaska, Washington, inspected again midway through the Oregon, Montana, and Canada, school year. Page 2 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind DELTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Husky Pups Kindergarten is exciting time Ready to educate By Stephanie Lehner, strong foundational skills for must be present during the Kindergarten Teacher reading and mathematics. screening. Screenings will The most exciting time If your child is eligible to take place August 16, 17, our future leaders enter kindergarten, please and 18. The official first day of the year is drawing near; By Bill Johnson, DES Principal Everyone will miss Mrs. Po- it’s almost the first day of bring the following items to of kindergarten will be Au- School begins for our 1st spisil, but we are very excited school! This will be a very the Elementary School Of- gust 22. Please call the office through 5th grade students to have Mrs. Hooton in that exciting time for most and fice: a recent physical, proof at 895-4696 to schedule a on August 17. The entire staff capacity. may be a bit scary for a few, of up-to-date immuniza- screening time. Your child at Delta Elementary School The DES staff is plan- especially if this is their first tions, and a birth certificate. must be screened prior to is looking forward to getting ning for a very enriching year time coming to our wonder- If your child has had a name entering kindergarten. started with another exciting educating the young minds ful school. change since birth, you will In Alaska, kindergarten year. We will be welcoming a of the Delta Greely commu- If your child will be five need to bring proof that this is not required. It is up to par- few new teachers and classi- nity, and collaboration is in years old by September 1, has been a legal change. If ents to decide if their child is fied personnel in our building, place to move forward with then he or she is eligible to there are custody concerns, ready for the program. Some but for the most part, the the effective partnership with attend kindergarten at Del- legal verification of who has parents feel that while kin- names and faces will remain the Fort Greely Garrison to ta Elementary School! Kin- custody should also be pre- dergarten is very beneficial, familiar to our Delta Ele- promote healthy lifestyles dergarten is such a fun and sented. their child is not ready to at- mentary families. The list of among the students while exciting place to be! We prac- The three kindergarten tend a full day of classes. For certified teachers on staff this participating in the weekly tice language skills, physical teachers will be conducting those parents, Delta/Greely year is as follows: mileage club program. You motor skills, social skills, screenings with each kinder- School District offers the Preschool: Bonny Over- will also see soldiers once and thinking skills. Our gartener during the first week flexibility of being able to pick turf again taking part in the “Jour- school utilizes developmen- of school. The screening usu- your child up from school at 1 Kindergarten: Janet neys with Troops” program. tally appropriate materials ally takes an hour, and during p.m. We only ask that you be Reiter, Allison Smith, and Soldiers will be scheduled to and strategies to help make this time, your child will talk consistent about this pick-up Stephanie Lehner visit the elementary class- learning fun! with each of the teachers. time so that the classroom First Grade: Eileen rooms, while using technol- While at school, we learn These screenings are very can maintain a schedule for Mock, Tamie Webb, and ogy to build reading fluency through music, physical ac- important and will help the the sake of the other chil- Milt Hooton and comprehension. Another tivity, art, literature, tech- teachers provide for your dren. Second Grade: Sheryl successful part of the part- nology, and lots of hands- child’s individual needs. We look forward to see- Mills, Jennifer Brant, and nership has been the 4th on materials. We also gain A parent or guardian ing you soon! Cheryl Hanson grade swimming program. Third Grade: Georgia Of course, you can Lansing and Janine Todd expect regular monthly Preschool program for students with disabilities Third/Fourth Multiage: assemblies, fundraisers, and special events such as the The annual preschool of communication, physi- be sure to bring the docu- Brettney Tomasch DES Science Fair and the screening for three- and four- cal development, cognitive mentation that verifies this Fourth Grade: Heather annual visit from the UAF year-olds will take place Au- thinking development, social/ to the attention of the school Stossmeister and Mike Geophysical Institute and gust 16-18 at Delta Elemen- emotional development, and staff at the time of screening. Gerhart the Planetarium. The En- tary School. The screening is self-help skills. The screening In this case, your child does Fifth Grade: Todd Han- richment program and iDida only for students who would provides parents with good not need to go through this son and Nicole Pugh movie activities will also be be new to the Delta Preschool information about how their screening process. P.E.: Shannon Morley in full swing with K-5 student program, which is designed child is developing in com- Those students for whom Special Education: Dawn participation. to serve three- and four-year- parison to expected normal the screening indicates there Fagenstrom and Victoria Please join us on August olds with disabilities. development. All parents of may be areas of delay will be Anthony 24, from 5-6:30 p.m. for Entrance into the pro- three- and four-year-olds are invited to participate in the Music: Amanda Gray our Open House. We are gram includes a two-step welcome to bring their chil- second step of the enrollment Librarian: Tiki Levinson always excited to have our process. First students will dren to this screening, even if process, which is the evalu- Title One and ELL: active parent and commu- be screened. Screening is a a disability is not suspected. ation. This is a more com- Jenny Burr quick look at developmen- If your child already has We are currently looking nity volunteers assisting us See PRESCHOOL, page 3 tal milestones in the areas an identified disability, please for someone to temporarily with activities in and out of fill in as school counselor for the building throughout the Lindsay Pinkelman while she school year. There will be a is rehabilitating from a trau- table available in the hallway matic injury she suffered over for volunteers to sign up for the summer. Our thoughts events throughout the year. and prayers are with her, and Thank you all in advance we wish her a full and speedy for your participation in our recovery. Husky Pup Family events. Nichole Hooton has The entire DES staff is moved from her position as looking forward to making an instructional aide to filling every student’s academic the vacant secretary position experience meaningful and created as a result of Eileen rewarding throughout the Pospisil’s move to Virginia. 2017-2018 school year!

August 16-18 9 am to 3 pm Published by Delta Wind 2017-18 Back to School Special Section – Page 3 2017-18 Student

Student Days 11 Student Days 19 Student Days 20 Calendar PD Days 2 PD Days 0 PD Days 2 Total Days in Session 13 Total Days in Session 19 Total Days in Session 22

Student Days 19 Student Days 15 Student Days 16 Student Days 19 PD Days 1 PD Days 0 PD Days 1 PD Days 1 Total Days in Session 20 Total Days in Session 15 Total Days in Session 17 Total Days in Session 20

Student Days 15 Student Days 20 Student Days 17 PD Days 2 PD Days 0 PD Days 0 Total Days in Session 17 Total Days in Session 20 Total Days in Session 17

Days Off Professional Development Days 9 Semester Sept. 1 - Fall Break Dec 21: 84 student days Jan. 19 - Basketball Tourney May 23: 87 student days April 23 - Available for PD if Graduation May 17 needed for cold weather makeup

PRESCHOOL, to bring in specialists to eval- likely the child will either be school after Labor Day. screen and evaluate new from page 2 uate those students having able overcome the disability Parents with questions preschool students who may difficulties in specific areas. or, at the very least, the gaps about the program should be enrolled in the Delta Pre- plete look at students who Parents may need to provide in learning will be minimized. contact the school at 895- school Program. As this pro- have demonstrated concerns transportation for their child Parents of four-year-olds 4696. cess is completed, students during the screening pro- during this evaluation period. who do not qualify for the pro- Delta/Greely School who were already in the Delta cess. At such a young age, it After completing the gram based on having a dis- District is please to introduce Preschool Program last year is sometimes difficult to get evaluation, the parents of ability may enter their child’s Bonny Hamm Overturf to will begin classes on August a good feel for what a stu- students having significant name into a lottery drawing the Preschool program. She 28. Returning parents will dent can do during the quick developmental concerns and by calling the Delta Elemen- is an experienced teacher of be contacted regarding their screening. Students are often meeting the state definition of tary School office. Between 2 preschool children with dis- child’s schedule and bus shy and don’t necessarily re- disabled will be encouraged and 4 non-disabled students abilities. She is coming to route after we have complet- spond well to the new situa- to enroll their child in the will be chosen to participate us from the Denali Borough ed assessment of any new tion. For this reason, a more Delta Preschool program for in the program. This drawing School District, and we are students who will be attend- complete evaluation will allow the remainder of the school will be made during the week very excited to include her in ing. For the first week, some staff to see the child’s true ca- year. For these students, ear- of August 28, and parents our Delta Elementary School parents may need to trans- pabilities in a more comfort- ly entrance into school will be will be notified that week. staff. port their own students as we able setting. During this eval- very important. The sooner Students chosen through the The first two week of give the bus company time to uation time, it is also possible education begins, the more lottery process will begin preschool are time for staff to establish routes.

The Delta High School Booster Club congratulates the Class of 2017 and welcomes the Class of 2021 Show the world what you’re made of, but never forget where you came from.

We would like to thank the following sponsors for another successful year of supporting DHS student activities: Platinum: Timbercrest Dental, Wentz Orthodontics, The Delta Dentist, Pogo Mine, Delta Building Supply, IGA Food Cache, Morley Electric Gold: Delta Meat and Sausage, Alaska Flour Company, Debbie Joslin Realty, Buffalo Service Center Silver: Dennis Green and Sons, Delta Power Sports, Mt. Hayes Realtors, CSG Inc. Attorney at Law Bronze: Kelly’s Alaska Country Inn, Frances Salon, Recess at 20 Below, Si and Sandy Hill, Lions Club

With the support of our sponsors, this year we: - sponsored Community Calendar and Christmas Bazaar - purchased new pretzel machine, new refrigerator, and - sent 3 students to student council conference larger, faster coffee maker for concessions room - purchased easy-to-read menu poster - helped host 3 tournaments: volleyball, Dean Cummings, - provided snacks for Senior Interview Night basketball regionals - gave 2 scholarships to graduating seniors - purchased a senior countdown clock and - sponsored the concessions room wall painting water bottle filler fountain outside gym - fundraiser for the wrestling team

If you would like to sponsor or become a member of DHS Booster Club, contact us at [email protected]. And LIKE us on Facebook! Page 4 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind DELTA JUNIOR HIGH Grizzlies Ruminations of a House System fosters belonging Entering the small gym at Delta Junior Our Houses are Gold, Green, Purple, principal/parent High, you might be overwhelmed with thump- Pink, White, and Orange. Staff members ing music and the student body’s celebratory come up with competitions that allow for a By Jeff Lansing, DJH Principal over and over that success- spirit. You might even wonder if there is some wide variety of talents to emerge. We’ve had sort of championship event about to occur. math and geography relays, lip synch and This summer I read an ful schools have engaged Indeed, there is a yearly championship event dance off battles, door decorating, reading excellent book – “The Smart- parents. The author reframes occurring, and it is the race for the Delta challenges, wolf howl competitions, half-court est Kids in the World and the term “engaged,” and I’ll Junior High House Championship! shot competitions, minute-to-win-it games, How They Got That Way” by try to review that for you now. What in the world is the house system? and a wide variety of spirit-oriented contests. Amanda Ripley. I was sur- According to Ripley, the Predating Harry Potter, Principal Jeff Lan- Last year, our students’ fathers partic- prised by her trait analysis of parenting efforts that yielded sing worked at the American-British Acad- ipate with their children, moms shooting the most successful schools big returns on a student’s ac- emy in Muscat, Oman, which had a house three-point shots, and our new 5th graders around the world. She shared ademic performance includ- system in place. The main goal of the house participating during our grand finale. interesting results from the ed these: system was to create small teams of mixed The overarching goal is that everyone PISA exam. PISA tests criti- Parents who read to their grade students to facilitate camaraderie and participates, and hopefully promoting pos- cal thinking in math, science, young children every day had school spirit. itive, supportive feelings for everyone. In and reading in 15-year-olds. kids who performed much The staff at Delta Junior High embraced addition, we have a lot of fun! The test questions do not better in reading, all around the concept of creating houses where stu- This year our staff wants to spend more measure memorization of the world. Parents who read dents could feel connected to a smaller group time within the house groups. Our goal is to facts, but rather demand that to their children every day of students. get to know all the kids on a personal level students draw on knowledge also teach children about the Throughout the year, DJH Houses have while creating a true team spirit outside of the and real-world problem world – sharing stories about competitions where they earn points for first competitive events. Each house also has a solving skills. One trait Ms. faraway places, asking ques- or second place. Points are cumulative with personal goal, which is to dethrone the winner Ripley looked at focused on tions about the book that en- an eventual champion. of the past two years – Purple House! parental involvement. courage the children to them In the United States, to think for themselves. we constantly push for more As kids get older, par- and more parental involve- ents who discussed movies, books, and current affairs What you need to know about ment in our schools. Even as a principal, I sometimes with their kids had better feel guilty that I don’t attend readers at age 15 than those every event in which my son who did not. Parents who junior high activities program gets an award, or I feel bad if engage their kids in conversa- I don’t attend this “night” or tion about things larger than By Rick Johnson, into locker rooms. season starts the first week the other. The reality is that themselves were essentially DJH Activities Director Truly a multipurpose back with cross-country and teaching their kids to become we all lead busy lives, but I The 2017/18 DJH room, the small gym is the track & field. Announce- thinking adults. was somewhat comforted Activities Program promises single-most utilized room in ments for student/parent Fifteen-year-olds whose with Amanda Ripley’s obser- another exciting school year the Delta Junior/Senior High meetings will be sent home parents talked about com- vations on parental involve- for students, family mem- Complex, and this remodel the first day or two of school. plicated social issues with ment in the top countries. bers, and community alike. benefits all secondary stu- The purpose of these meet- them not only scored better Her contention was that Of special interest this year is dents and their activities ings is for coaches to present on international rankings, in educational superpowers the remodel of the junior high programs. schedules, school policies/ but also reported enjoying such as Finland, South Ko- multipurpose room widely Extra special thanks rules, and expectations for reading more. rea, and Poland (yes, Poland), known as the small gym. for this project goes to the the season. Math is the language of parents were not necessarily Sporting a new floor, painted folks at Pogo Mine for their This year’s coaching and logic. It is a disciplined, orga- more involved in their chil- end walls, and new projection financial support, our district activities staff is excited and nized way of thinking. There dren’s education, just differ- system, the room’s new look administration, the mainte- looking forward to getting is a right answer; there are ently. Parent involvement in is impressive. nance, custodial, and tech- their seasons started. rules that must be followed. those schools just mentioned Additionally, the re- nology staffs, and the volun- DJH athletic events and Parents who instill a sense was about zero. What?! How strooms closest to the small teer time spent painting. coaches include track & can that be?! We’ve been told See PRINCIPAL, page 6 gym have been remodeled The DJH sports practice See ACTIVITIES, page 6

Dr. Wentz and Team wish you all the best for a school year full of smiles. New patient consultations now being scheduled in Delta in partnership with Timbercrest Dental.

Fairbanks, Alaska (907) 452-7223 www.wentzortho.com Published by Delta Wind 2017-18 Back to School Special Section – Page 5 SCHOOL BUS ROUTES Page 6 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind Walls to separate junior high, high school When Fort Greely however, at times it has made The students, staff, and ed due to classes being held tion classes. School closed two years ago, supervision more challenging. community will need to get there. The small gym got a the junior high students were When students and staff used to having to exit one The small gym will con- major makeover during the moved into the Delta School, return this fall, they will find door and enter another if tinue to serve as the lunch- summer months, thanks in where they have shared that the building space is they want to move from room for both schools. part to a donation by Pogo space with Delta High significantly different from the junior high to the senior In addition to closing School. Staff and students years past. Walls have been high school. The only access off the hallways, junior high Mine. There is fresh paint on have gotten used to moving built to separate the junior between the two buildings restrooms have been recon- the walls and a new gym floor across imaginary boundaries high school from the senior would be through the small figured to create changing sports the new DJH Grizzly between the two programs; high school. gym, which will be very limit- rooms for the physical educa- logo.

PRINCIPAL, ACTIVITIES, from page 4 from page 4 of logic in their children and field/cross-country coached CLUBS • ACTIVITIES • SPORTS work with them on math at by Jason Smith, girls bas- Art Club First Lego League Robotics Com- an early age enable them to ketball by Norm Cosgrove, petition do better than their peers boys basketball by Rex Beck, Homework Club whose parents do not. cheerleading by Angie Pugh, Flight Club Outdoor School at Lost Lake Parents who are coach- and volleyball by Holly Stew- Million Word Club House Competitions es of education spend less art. time attending school events Samantha Kiser will Monthly Award Assemblies and more time training their coach the Math Counts Cross Country/Track Wednesday Meeting children at home: reading to program, Norm Cosgrove them, quizzing them on their the Flight Club, Samantha Basketball Rock Your Brain Enrichment multiplication tables while Bopp Student Council, Tiki Volleyball Courses cooking dinner, and pushing Levinson Battle of the Books, Wrestling Intervention Lessons them to try harder. and Joy Staats will sponsor Parents who read at the National Junior Honor Cheerleading Positive Behavioral Interventions home for pleasure were more Society. likely to have children who and Supports All DJH students are like to enjoy reading as well. encouraged to participate National Junior Honor Society 5th and 8th grade transition activi- Of course, all schools in one or more after-school ties love to have parents attend Student Council programs. events and volunteer. We Battle of the Books Donuts for Dads As a whole, students want you to feel welcome and participating in extra-curric- Math Counts Lunch it Up! an integral part of your child’s school. At the end of the day, ular activities perform better Spelling Bee Muffins for Moms than students who do not. however, a parent has the Geography Bee Holiday Cultural Celebration opportunity to be their child’s Delta Junior High is commit- best teacher. Every day, try ted to helping each student to engage your child in their athlete find a responsible sporting activities, students begin. file, and students must also learning. Spend quality time balance between academics must complete the following: In order to compete, the be academically eligible each and extracurricular activities away from electronics, and Students need a sports student activity fee must Monday at noon. encourage them to work hard and to develop and maintain physical on file in the DJH be paid, a coach’s contract To participate in any DJH and to try their best each day. a healthy, positive attitude office and must have com- signed and turned in, the Be the coach, not the cheer- about school life. pleted a Concussion Base- DJH Athletic Code and activity, students must be in leader. To participate in DJH line Test before practice can ASSA forms signed and on good standing academically. Lunch from home doesn’t have to be boring By Dawn Brown, Delta Wind time. shapes, small squares or use able. Likewise, veggies such side can make a nice change On top of the hectic I’m not saying it’s fool- a rolling pin and flatten be- as carrots, cucumbers, olives, of pace for a mid-day meal. pace of school, heaven help proof or that it works consis- fore adding a filling. Besides pickles, and bell peppers are On the same note, leftovers those of us with more than tently. But I still do it. plain bread, you can use easy to prepare in mass and can also be great for lunch at one in the system. Besides Of course, I can say this crackers, bagels, soft torti- keep on hand for a quick school, so don’t count them the hustle and bustle of with optimism and enthu- llas, or even pretzels to hold and healthy addition to any out! Leftover pastas or soups keeping track of paperwork, siasm at the beginning of things together. lunch. Cut small, they’re also packed in a thermos to keep homework, deadlines, sports, the school year, before the Not into sandwiches? a great add to your choice of hot can bring the comfort of projects, activities, and winter months of rejected lunches – Try a lunch of finger foods. lettuce for a nice salad that home with a hot, filling meal. gear, packing school lunches with food crushed, soggy, and Small cuts of meats and will come together easily. Pinterest is a good venue forgotten in their lunch boxes cheeses will please even the For those who don’t mind can add a whole lot more to find more of these quick – have deflated my passion pickiest eaters, and are easy pre-packaged, I must give stress to your day. ideas, as well as options that for injecting fun and variety enough to prep and pack. a shout out to individually If your kids are like mine, are a little more intricate. it’s a daily struggle to get into eating and I fall back on Pepperoni, ham, salami, deli packaged string cheese, fruit There are also blogs on this them to eat what’s packed. the staple of peanut butter meats, and even hard boiled snacks, granola bars, nuts, subject, showing that it’s not What they like at the mo- and jelly sandwiches for the eggs can all be packed into a and the like for being a great a struggle for just you and ment can clash with what rest of the year. sandwich-less, portable lunch grab-and-go option to throw they don’t like, and it can So, lets start with the with a variety of cheeses and in a lunch box. your kids to find the right make creating daily meals a basics, shall we? crackers on the side. Just like breakfast for balance of food and fun for struggle. You don’t have to be Most fruits and veggies dinner, lunches don’t need to school lunch – it’s a great When it comes to pack- stuck with the same basic, are handy and extremely be restricted to typical lunch effort for us all. Check out ing lunches, I try to use a boring sandwich items. easy to prep. Melons, orang- items. Get creative. How what’s on the web, and don’t variety of what they like while Switch it up a bit. If you es, grapes, and berries are about a breakfast sandwich forget to share good sites introducing something new prefer to use plain bread, always a great sweet side to for lunch? A couple of waffles and ideas with your friends and interesting at the same you can cut it into interesting send and are easily transport- with egg, cheese, and ham in- with school age children. Your School Board members send greetings and wishes for an amazing year of learning. Richard Mauer, President Dana Mock, Vice President Eileen Herman, Treasurer Barbara Parker, Clerk Rebecca Wilburn Flower Cole Eileen Williams Kirstin Porter, Student Representative Board of Education Lt. Col. Michael Foote, Military Representative 907-895-5442 Insanity Acres Facebook - insanityacres www.insanityacres.com Feeding your furry friends - call us for barley, oats, hay & straw The crazy folks at Insanity Acres hope you have a fun filled school year! Published by Delta Wind 2017-18 Back to School Special Section – Page 7 DELTA HIGH SCHOOL Huskies Important dates at DHS From the principal By Brett Stirling, change is that advisory is New student registra- available Wednesday-Fri- questions about the upcom- DHS Principal now only one day a week – tion began Monday, August day, August 9-11 from 8:30 ing school year. Welcome back to anoth- Wednesday at 2 p.m. There 7. Stop by the high school a.m.-3:20 p.m. to visit with Monday, August er great year at Delta High is a scheduled activity period office and pick up a regis- students and parents regard- 14: DHS Open House at the School. I am excited to start each Friday afternoon at 2 tration packet and set up an ing any questions or changes high school from 3-4:30 p.m. my second year at DHS. We p.m. Also, students will have appointment with the coun- to the schedule. Monday, August have a lot of changes in store a full five minutes between selor. Please call the high 14: DHS Freshman Orienta- for this year, and the staff classes, so there will be no Student schedules were school office at 895-4460 to tion at 4 p.m. and I are enthusiastic about excuse to be late for class. mailed home August 2. DHS set up an appointment with Tuesday, August the opportunities. We are also pleased to Counselor Alex Ting will be the counselor or with any 29: DHS Picture Day First, the junior high and introduce two new members high school have been phys- to our staff this year. ically separated by walls, so Jackie Becker will join when students leave the bus- us and help run our New Homework and correspondence classes es, all high school students Horizons program as well as HOMEWORK look over their homework students who are struggling. will need to enter through the oversee our new online and Delta High School assignments and make sure Grades get checked fre- senior lobby doors – oth- correspondence course offer- students may not have much they are staying current. The quently, and any students erwise they are going to be ings. In addition, we welcome homework this year, thanks 20 minutes will give a little who have Ds or Fs get im- stuck in junior high! Amanda Turnbull. She will be to a change in the weekly homework time as well. mediate attention. The goal Second, if students are teaching our language arts schedule and staff making a Friday’s class schedule is to help struggling students driving their own vehicles, classes and brings with her a concerted effort to give op- has been adjusted to be the before they get behind. they must register their number of years’ experience portunities through the week same as Wednesday, minus The Wednesday after- vehicles and park on the teaching in Alaska. to complete assignments, the early release. Instead, noon check-in allows teacher high school office side of The staff and I have a lot said DHS Principal Brett students will take the last 90 to assist students in staying the building. We have new of other great ideas planned Stirling. minutes of the day to finish on track. Some students registration tags this year, so for this year. But more im- Every Wednesday during up their homework for the who need more time, and students who have the old portantly, we are looking for the last class of the day, week. That time will also be maybe some assistance, with tags will need to hand them your ideas. We want to make teachers will wrap up instruc- used to do things that would homework will go to certain in and get the new ones. this your best year at DHS, tion a little early and give interrupt instruction – as- locations in the school on The high school bell so come ready to work hard, students an opportunity to semblies, student council Fridays depending on what schedule has also changed. play harder, and participate in meetings, assemblies, class assignments they are doing. It is published here for you to your education. meetings, etc. – but course Stirling explained that see (see below). The biggest See you all on the 17th. work is the priority. there should be little or no “We’ve taken the time weekend homework under DHS Bell Schedule Breakfast that used to be Advisory and this system, other than Delta High School stu- moved it to Friday,” Stirling long-term projects such as dents who get to school early explained. research papers. enough can take advantage Teachers use an early See CLASSES, page 8 of an option to keep away warning system to identify the morning empty stom- ach blues. The food service will offer some grab-and-go breakfast items for purchase. DHS activities These offerings will not Activities: BPA, National cheerleading, softball, base- be part of the regular school Honor Society, Radio Flyers, ball, track and field. meal program, so there will student council, Academ- Fees: $150 per student not be any reduced price ic Decathlon (if we have per season, $300 max per offering. enough students) family. Participation fees Check in with the high Sports: coed soccer, for non-DGSD students is school office for more infor- cross country, volleyball, rifle, $300/season, and there is mation. wrestling, basketball, hockey, no discount for families. Wishing all the students and families a successful school year

Food Cache BEER * WINE * SPIRITS * GROWLER BAR Page 8 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind Delta High School Sports Schedules 2017 VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE 2017 XC RUNNING SCHEDULE DATE DAY TIME GAME LEVEL DATE DAY TIME EVENT LOCATION/HOST Aug. 18-19 Fri/Sat. TBA Monroe JV Tournament JV Aug. 12 Sat. 10G/10:30B West Valley Invite West Ridge-UAF/W.V. Aug. 25 Friday 4:30 pm Lathrop @ Delta JV/V 10 am freshman race, boys and girls combined. Aug. 26 Saturday 2:30 pm Delta @ North Pole JV/V (No official results will be kept) Sept. 8-9 Fri./Sat. TBA West Valley Tournament V 10:30 am Girls Official race (Unattached runners allowed, but no times recorded) Sept. 14 Thursday 5 pm Galena @ Delta V 11 am Boys Official race (Unattached runners allowed, Sept. 15-16 Fri/Sat. TBA Valdez Tournament JV/V but no times recorded) Sept. 22 Friday 4:30 pm Eielson @ Delta JV/V Aug. 12 Sat. TBA Valdez Invitational Valdez Sept. 23 Saturday 1 pm Delta @ Hutchison JV/V Aug. 18 Fri. 4 pm All Schools JV Chena Lakes /N.P. Sept. 28 Thursday 5 pm Galena @ Delta V 4:45/5:30pm All Schools Varsity Sept. 29 Friday 4:30 pm Delta @ Valdez JV/V Aug. 26 Sat. 11G/11:45B Interior Invitational Birch Hill/Lathrop Sept. 30 Saturday 10 am Delta @ Valdez JV/V Sept. 2 Sat. TBA Palmer Invite Palmer Oct. 5 Thursday 4:30 pm Hutchison@ Delta JV/V Sept. 9 Sat. 12/1pm Delta Invitational Delta/Delta Oct. 6 Friday 4:30 pm Delta @ Eielson JV/V Sept. 12 Tue 4:30/5:15 3200m Postal WVHS/West Valley Oct. 12 Thursday 4:30 pm Delta @ Monroe JV/V Sept. 15 Fri. 5:30 pm All Schools JV Salcha/Eielson Oct. 20-21 Fri/Sat. TBA Barrow Invitational V 6:15 pm All Schools Varsity Oct. 20-21 Fri/Sat. TBA Delta Invitational JV REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS HOST: North Pole @ Birch Hill Oct. 26 Thursday 4:30 pm Monroe @ Delta JV/V Sept. 23 Sat. 1 pm JV Boys Oct. 27-28 Fri/Sat. TBA Hutchison JV Tournament JV 1:45 pm JV Girls Nov. 2-4 Thurs-Sat. TBA Regional Tournament @ Hutchison 2:30 pm 3A/4A Boys 3:15 pm 3A/4A Girls Nov. 9-11 Thur-Sat TBA 3A Alaska State Tournament V @ Alaska Airlines Center (Anch.) Sept. 30 Sat ASAA/FIRST NATIONAL BANK STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS @ Bartlett in Anchorage 2017 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE DATE DAY TIME GAME LEVEL Nov. 29 Weds Practice Begins 2017 HOCKEY SCHEDULE Dec. 16 Sat 3 pm North Pole @ Delta JV/V DATE DAY TIME GAME LOCATION Dec. 22 Friday 3 pm Delta @ Lathrop JV/V Oct. 11 Weds Practice Begins Jan. 4-6 Thurs-Sat TBA ACS Tournament V Oct. 28 Sat TBA Monroe Jamboree Big Dipper Jan. 11 Thurs 3 pm Delta @ Eielson JV/V Nov. 4 Sat TBA Delta @ North Pole Polar Ice Jan. 12 Fri 6 pm Galena @ Delta V Nov. 9-11 Thurs TBA Hutchison Tournament TBA Jan. 13 Sat 6 pm Galena @ Delta V Nov. 18 Sat 10 am Palmer Delta Jan. 19-21 Thurs-Sat TBA Dean Cummings Sr. Inv. V Dec. 8 Fri 6 pm Tri-Valley @ Delta Tok Feb. 2 Fri 3 pm Delta @ Valdez JV/V Dec. 9 Sat 10 am Tri-Valley @ Delta Tok Feb. 3 Sat 3 pm Delta @ Valdez JV/V Dec. 15 Fri 7 pm Delta @ Houston Big Lake Feb. 8-10 Thurs-Sat TBA Chugiak Tournament V (B) Dec. 16 Sat 10 am Delta @ Houston Big Lake Feb. 8-10 Thurs-Sat TBA Valdez Elks Tournament V (G) Jan. 5 Fri 6 pm Glennallen Delta Feb. 13 Tues 3 pm Delta @ Monroe JV/V Jan. 6 Sat 10 am Glennallen Delta Feb. 17 Sat 3 pm Delta @ West Valley (Boys E) JV/V Jan. 11 Thur TBA Delta @ Monroe Big Dipper Feb. 20 Tues 3 pm Monroe @ Delta JV/V Jan. 12 Fri 6 pm Hutchison Delta Feb. 23 Fri 3 pm Eielson @ Delta JV/V Jan. 20 Sat TBA Delta @ Hutchison Patty Center Feb. 24 Sat 3 pm Delta @ North Pole JV/V Jan. 23 Tue 6 pm Monroe Delta Mar. 2 Fri 3 pm Hutchison @ Delta JV/V Feb. 1-3 Thurs-Sat TBA Hockey Playoffs/State Houston Mar. 3 Sat 3 pm Delta @ Hutchison JV/V Mar. 8-10 Thurs-Sat TBA Regional Tournament @ Monroe Mar. 22-24 Thurs-Sat TBA 3A Alaska State Tournament V 2017 SOCCER SCHEDULE @ American Airlines Center (Anch.) DATE DAY TIME OPPONENT LOCATION Aug. 10 Thurs TBA Lumen Away 2017 WRESTLING SCHEDULE Aug. 11 Fri 10 am CIA Away DATE DAY TIME MATCH LOCATION Aug. 12 Sat TBA Birchwood Away Sept 27 Wed First Day of Practice Aug. 17 Thur 6 pm Lumen Home Oct 13-14 Fri/Sat TBA Houston Invitational Houston Aug. 18 Fri 6 pm Holy Rosary Home Oct 20-21 Fri/Sat TBA Valdez Invitational Valdez Aug. 19 Sat 1 pm Birchwood Home Oct 24 Tues 5 pm Eielson/Hutch Delta Aug. 25 Fri TBA Su-Valley Away Nov 3-4 Fri/Sat TBA ACS Invitational ACS Aug. 26 Sat TBA Su-Valley Away Nov 10-11 Fri/Sat TBA Hutchison Meltdown Hutchison Sept. 1 Fri 6 pm Wasilla Home Nov 17-18 Fri/Sat TBA Lancer Smith Invitational Wasilla Sept. 2 Sat TBA CIA Home TBA Colony JV Invite Wasilla Sept. 7-9 Thur-Sat Tri-Valley Tournament Away Nov 21 Tues 6 pm Delta/Hutch/Eielson Eielson Sept. 15 Fri 6 pm Tri-Valley Home Dec 1-2 Fri/Sat TBA Glennallen Invitational Glennallen Sept. 16 Sat 10 am Tri- Valley Home Dec 8-9 Fri/Sat TBA Denali Conference Tournament Delta Sept. 22 Fri TBA Nenana Away Dec 15-16 Fri-Sat TBA ASAA State Tournament Anchorage Sept. 23 Sat TBA Nenana Away @ Alaska Airlines Center Oct. 4-7 Wed-Sat Tournament @ Palmer

CLASSES, a DHS staff member will or career pathway for which from page 7 oversee the student. When the course is appropriate. CORRESPONDENCE possible, students will have DHS does not support COURSES a class period to work on correspondence courses for Open Juniors and seniors are el- the correspondence course freshmen and sophomores, igible to take correspondence material. though parents may pur- courses at DHS as part of Students must meet chase correspondence class- their coursework when a stu- the following criteria to be es for their students. Howev- dent’s needs can best be met eligible for correspondence er, credits might not transfer House outside the regular classroom course options: to DHS, and students might and an educational plan for Be a junior or senior and not be given time during such study is agreed upon have parent permission and school to work on such a Delta Elementary and approved by the parents. either have completed all class. It is best to check with Thursday, Aug. 24, 5-6:30 pm Grades on those courses will courses offered at DHS in the high school counselor count toward weekly grade a particular subject area or regarding correspondence Delta Junior High checks for eligibility, and have identified a clear college courses for underclassmen. Monday, Aug. 14, 3-4:30 pm Delta High School Monday, Aug. 14, 3-4:30 pm DeltaWindOnline.com Freshman Orientation, 4 pm Published by Delta Wind 2017-18 Back to School Special Section – Page 9 SCHOOL BOARD School board meetings are held the first and third Thursdays of each month except July at 5:30 p.m. in the district office board room. Meetings are also broadcast live on KDHS 95.5. The first meeting of the month is a work session, and the second is a business meeting. Delta/Greely School District Board of Education Members President: Richard Mauer • Vice President: Dana Mock • Treasurer: Eileen Herman • Clerk: Barbara Parker Flower Cole • Rebecca Wilburn • Eileen Williams Student Representative: Kirstin Porter • Military Representative: Lt. Col. Michael Foote Public members invited DGSD Board Annual Goals to serve on committees 1. Facilitate the planning, programming, budgeting, execution and reporting of a short and long term maintenance program. Delta/Greely School committees are current- District values parent and ly looking for volunteers. 2. The board will adopt key indicators of success and implement an community input on the Committees generally meet annual review of those indicators. many committees that make about four times a year, with decisions for the district each some meeting once a month year. If you would like to be 3. The board will facilitate the ongoing implementation and review of or more. involved in the decision-mak- the strategic plan. ing processes of the district, Please contact Sharon please volunteer to partici- Waldo at the district office, 4. The board will continue to analyze budget data to identify (907) 895-4657 ext. 21 to pate. efficiencies and priorities. The Facilities and Policy learn more or to volunteer.

Key Indicators of Success

• Academic Achievement o o Proficiency in reading at the end of third grade Proficiency in English Language Arts, Math, and Science at the o end of sixth grade (readiness for junior high) Students earning at least six credits at the end of ninth grade o (readiness for high school) o Graduation rate Students meeting APS Scholarship guidelines • Social Skills

o § Student engagement: § Student Attendance o Extracurricular activity in grades 6-12 § Work Ethic § Tardy rates § Attendance rate o Courses passed in grades 6-12 § Appropriate Social Interactions Discipline referrals for inappropriate social interaction (insubordination, defiance, bullying, fighting, etc)- Grades

6-12

Adopted May 4, 2017 GREAT THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU

Wishes all the students a successful year Page 10 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind Science career pathways: One step at a time Highlights of year two DoDEA Science Grant By Sandy Hill, strategies completed during leaders to promote student digital projectors, and books to Aviation Day at UAF. Grant Coordinator the 2016-2017 school year. interest in science and pro- for classrooms. Year three funding allows Delta/Greely School Elementary staff partic- vide connections to science Other activities support- for an after-school program ipated in multiple trainings research. Elementary staff ed through the grant include District has completed the at Delta Elementary and using Discovery Education, began the process of aligning allowing elementary students second year of a five-year more engaging science fairs. an interactive digital science their science lessons to the to participate in a science-fo- Science and Career Path- Flight Club will continue to software program, while appropriate Next Gener- cused after-school program soar, and staff will continue ways grant awarded through secondary teachers were ation Science Standards. and science fairs at the training in Discovery Educa- the Department of Defense trained in Canvas, a learning The grant supported hiring a elementary and junior high Education Activity. The first management system. Pro- science coach, Cheryl Coo- schools. At the high school tion and Canvas. Elementary year of the grant was devoted fessional development days per, who provided invaluable level, Flight Club took off staff will continue their work to planning, with implemen- focused on an array of sci- expertise and guidance to the with new remote-controlled with the science coach, while tation of strategies happen- ence topics from science by staff. The grant also support- airplanes and robotics. Grant the secondary schools will ing in the second year. Here incorporating local military, ed the purchase of science funds also assisted in sending explore implementing science are a few highlights of those university, and community support equipment, iPads, members of the Flight Club career pathways. Gerstle River School supports isolated community Most Delta-area resi- kids to Gerstle River School you would hardly know they While the district as a ty’s holidays and subsistence dents have heard of Gerstle try to maintain their unique are there. whole did not move to a lifestyle, students at GRS will River School, but very few cultural identity as much Gerstle River School is a four-day school week, the attend 159 eight-hour days have visited or even know as possible within the con- K-12 public school within our school board and State of rather than the traditional where the school is located. straints of a modern world. district. There are approx- Alaska approved an alter- 180 days. The community As you head towards Tok The students who attend imately 25 students who native calendar for Gerstle was polled and felt that this on the Alaska Highway and GRS are some of the bright- attend the two-room school. River School. Students will change would allow for better take a left down Cummings est and most talented stu- K-5 students attend school be attending fewer days, but attendance by their students Road, a community of people dents we have in the Delta/ on one side, while 6-12 grade they will be longer days. and staff. live a mostly subsistence life- Greely School District, yet students are on the other In order to accommodate In addition to the change style. Parents who send their due to their relative isolation, side. the Gerstle River communi- in calendar, GRS welcomes a new teacher this year after long-time staff member Mark Curran retired. Mr. Curran had become the stable back- bone to the school, serving as the elementary school teacher for more than ten years. William Voelkerding will step in as the new teacher for grades K-5. He is moving to Alaska from New Mexi- co, where he taught on the Navajo reservation. He is familiar with traveling long distances to school and is comfortable working with students whose culture varies from the mainstream. We anticipate he will do very well at Gerstle River School. Kurt Schmidt continues with the school’s junior and senior high students. He works exceptionally well with the GRS students as he ties life experiences as a scientist, trapper, falconer, and hunter into the daily life at GRS. SCHOOL Lunch priceS Elementary $4.50 Junior High $4.75 High SchooL $5.00

Wishes all the students a safe and productive year

Mt. Hayes Realtors is sending prayers for a successful school Mt. Hayes, Inc.- year to all of the Delta staff, Realtors students & parents! Published by Delta Wind 2017-18 Back to School Special Section – Page 11 Parents have right to know teacher qualifications Parents of students in the give this information in clear Early Development (EED) cial circumstances. qualifications. Delta/Greely School District language and in a timely has issued an Alaska Teach- • The teacher’s college To request this informa- have the right to know the manner. ers Certificate to their child’s major, whether the teacher tion, please contact: professional qualifications Parents have the right to teacher for the grade(s) and has any advanced degrees, Sharon Waldo of their students’ classroom ask for the following specific subject(s) he or she teaches. and if so, the subject area of Administrative Assistant teachers. Federal law allows information about each of • Whether the EED has the degree. to the Superintendent parents to ask for certain in- their children’s classroom decided that their child’s Whether any teachers’ PO Box 527 formation about their child’s teachers: teacher can teach without aides or instructional para- Delta Junction, AK classroom teachers and • Whether the Alaska being certified under state professionals provide services 99737 requires school districts to Department of Education & regulations because of spe- to their child, and if so, their (907) 895-4657 ext 21 Students must be immunized before entering school SCHOOL CLOSURES If school must be closed for any reason, there are several ways for Prior to first entry into not show evidence of re- school, a child must be fully quired immunization or who parents to find out. Information is released by 6 a.m. in the follow- immunized as required by law does not present a letter or ing ways: against diphtheria, pertus- affidavit from the parent/ • Alert Now telephone call. Please be sure your contact informa- sis, tetanus, polio, measles, guardian or physician, physi- tion is updated as needed! rubella, mumps, hepatitis cian assistant, or advanced A, hepatitis B, and varicella. nurse practitioner stating rea- • Notices will be sent for online posting to Delta Wind (www. Children over the age of six sons for exemption based on deltawindonline.com), Delta News Web (www.deltanewsweb.com), shall not be required to be immunized against pertussis, medical reasons or religious and DGSD’s website (www.dgsd.us). beliefs, shall be excluded and children over the age of • Notices will be sent for broadcast to KDHS 95.5 FM and Magic 12 shall not be required to be from school until the immuni- immunized against rubella, (4 zation is obtained or affidavit 101.1 FM radio stations. AAC 06.055) of exemption has been filed • Notice is sent to Fort Greely for dissemination on post. Any student who does with the school. Page 12 – 2017-18 Back to School Special Section Published by Delta Wind The Homeschool Option Delta/Greely Homeschool ready to assist families Delta/ street from the Greely Home- Delta High A SERVICE OF YUKON-KOYUKUK SCHOOL DISTRICT school is excit- School and ed for another next to the year to help District Office) Raven Homeschool families wish- is open 8 a.m.- ing to educate 4 p.m.; please their children at feel free to home! stop in and ask enrollment is open We have questions or several fun, Raven Homeschool is a public school through Yukon/ educational ac- pick up enroll- Kuskokwim School District, so its support is available at no tivities planned ment forms. cost to families. Raven staff also provide the following allot- and are starting Your Hometown Homeschool Or you can ments to purchase curriculum, supplies, tutoring, and enrich- two new clubs monthly and give students a always e-mail ment activities for Raven students. this year: Science Club and great chance to stretch their Holly Stewart at hstewart@ Kindergarten-8th grade (minimum of 4 courses) – $2000 Chess Club. minds. dgsd.us with any questions 9th-12th Grade (minimum of 4 credits) – $2400 Both clubs will meet Our office (across the you have. Computer and internet options are available for full time students. Raven provides academic support through individualized learning plans, certified advisory teachers, and certified advisory academic counselors. Raven also offers workshops, field trips, reading club and incentive programs, Battle of the Books, art workshops, group activities, and more. Staff invites parents to give their input, expertise, and advice at Parent Advisory Committee meetings. Rika’s Roadhouse: Community Service, Build Your Own Crystal Radio Class: Raven Homeschool honors those who are committed to Picnic, & Treasure Hunt Build and take home a crystal radio homeschooling as the best educational choice for their family. Join the Raven staff and families for food, fun, and games Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks First-Aid Basics Class: on Tuesday, August 29, at 6 p.m. for Raven’s Back to Home- Sullivan Roadhouse: Community Service Learn the basics and take home your own kit school party. Meet other homeschooling families and learn more about Raven Homeschool. Chena Hot Springs Trip: Wilderness Debris Shelter Building: Swim plus tour For more information, contact Heidi or Julie at 895-2280 Class & Contest Mushing School: for rookies & sourdoughs or stop by the office upstairs in Room 2A in the Jarvis West Building. Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday Disney Nature Movie in Fairbanks Holiday Baking Class: Community Service through Friday. for Sullivan Roadhouse Chess Tournament

Map & Compass/Orienteering Homemade Natural Skin & Lip Care Class: : Class & Contest Make your own holiday gifts Homeschool Garden Club

Students Welcome Back! Delta Wind Supporting Schools

Sports, classroom activities, awards, tournaments, science fairs, field trips, and more - we want to be there! Teachers and principals, please let us know what is happening so we can share it with the whole community. Email [email protected] or call 895-5115