Desert Vista Storm Report

Tempe Union High School District

16440 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85048 Phone 480-706-7900 From Principal Mrs. Christine Barela... Hello Thunder Family, Summer 2015

Thank you for another amazing year at Desert Vista High School! It has been such an honor, Volume 21, Issue 5 privilege and blessing to serve as your principal this school year, and I can’t thank all of you enough for the support and respect you’ve given me during my first year as principal. My heart, like yours, is for our students to reach their highest levels of learning and for our staff Inside this issue: to provide the tools our young people need to prepare them for their future. This task is taken very seriously by all staff members at Desert Vista and we work tirelessly to plan, prepare, deliver, reflect and collaborate in order to do all that we can to serve our students. ACT/SAT/PSAT 2-3 Our teaching staff continues to work on our goals of Professional Learning Communities, Testing Learning Targets and implementing College and Career Ready Standards. Next year, we Summer Office 4 will maintain our focus on analyzing daily learning, self reflection and continuous improve- Hours ment in teaching and learning. We will intentionally give our attention to educating students on how to implement the productive and meaningful feedback that our teachers provide them Registrar’s Office 6 to enhance and improve their knowledge. We will work with students to assist them in setting goals to make learning more significant and personal for each individual student. In future Bell Schedule 6 letters, I will share more information on how you can partner with us to support your child at home in order to make learning more meaningful and purposeful for your child. Many schol- Schedule Changes 7 arships are based upon student grades, but if our students do not learn, we have missed the mark. Parent Info. 8 Session I would like to extend a warm welcome to the families of the Class of 2019 and to those who First Day for Fresh- 9 are transferring to Desert Vista. We are committed to providing a successful transition to our school and look forward to seeing our freshman and new families on Friday, July 31st, for men ‘Thunder Day’. More details are within the pages of this newsletter. Book Distribution 10

The Desert Vista Campus will be busy with a variety of terrific activities from academics, to Bookstore Pay Slip 11 extra-curricular, to preparing for high school for elementary up to high school level students th beginning Wednesday, May 27 , through Thursday, July 2nd. We believe in fostering the Course Fee 12 love for learning in all of our students and look forward to such an experience this summer. Schedule In continuing with ‘Excellence Through Performance’, I ask that you encourage your child to participate in activities that keep both the brain and body active and involved over the sum- Activity Fees 13 mer. Physical health, including good diet and exercise, plays an important role in our ability Rio/Dual 14 to learn and manage the stress that comes along with being a teenager, and in our overall mental well being. It can be as simple as a daily walk, hike, swimming, tennis or golf lessons. Enrollment I also ask that you take some time to have thought provoking and stimulating discussions with your child about the world around them while on vacation or in a more formal setting of Attendance 16 learning, such as academic camps or schools. Wherever the summer finds you, keeping the brain and body engaged and involved will enhance learning when school begins in August. Open House 17

I look forward to continuing to serve the Desert Vista community with passion and commit- Activities Office 18 ment. Athletic Office 22

Have a wonderful and safe summer! Counseling Office 26 Go Thunder! English and Math 28 Christine Barela, Principal Summer Work College Application and SAT/ACT Information

In-State College Applications Seniors planning to apply to ASU, NAU or U of A should submit their applications by the beginning of October. The universities will review applications for admittance and forward scholarship offers starting in October. The application process requires the following documentation: 1. On-line application available at: • www.asu.edu • www.arizona.edu • www.nau.edu 2. High school transcript, sent electronically through Parchment.com. Students are to register through Parchment.com. 3. SAT/ACT scores sent directly from the testing source. Students choose which schools to send the scores to at the time of registration for the test, otherwise they will need to contact College Board or ACT to request that the scores be sent. Desert Vista’s school code is: 030328 4. Rio transcript: sent directly from www.maricopa.edu Redesigned SAT …… Class of 2017 and Beyond

Students taking the SAT in the spring of 2016 will experience a new test. The updated SAT will also be reflected in the National Merit Qualifying PSAT starting the fall of 2015. We recommend that take the PSAT in October of their sophomore year, to best prepare for the junior year PSAT and SAT exams. For more information and test practice for the redesigned SAT please visit the website: www.deliveringopportunity.com SAT is committed to providing up-to-date test prep opportunities for free through a partnership with Khan Academy. Canvas - Summer Enrichment The DV counselors have uploaded College and Career Readiness summer activities for students in the graduating classes of 2016, 2017 & 2018 to access through their Canvas Guidance class. The summer activities module in Canvas has been designed to give each grade level a jump start on the fall in the areas of: 1. Career Planning 2. College Exploration 3. Test Prep 4. Resume Building **Remember the Canvas Guidance classes are ONLY accessible through the student Canvas login, not parent login.

Page 2 Desert Vista Storm Report ACT Test Dates 2015—2016

Please refer to www.ACT.org for more information.

Test Date Registration Deadline (Late Fee Required)

September 12, 2015 August 7, 2015 August 8–21, 2015

October 24, 2015 September 18, 2015 September 19–October 2, 2015

December 12, 2015 November 6, 2015 November 7–20, 2015

February 6, 2016* January 8, 2016 January 9–15, 2016

April 9, 2016 March 4, 2016 March 5–18, 2016

June 11, 2016** May 6, 2016 May 7–20, 2016

Anticipated SAT and SAT Subject Test Dates 2015—2016

SAT and SAT Subject test dates for the 2015-16 school year have not yet been finalized and published. Please check the CollegeBoard web site periodically if you need this information. The link to the web site is: http://sat.collegeboard.com/home

SAT Test Date Regular Registration Deadline SAT Tests Given

October 3, 2015 September 4, 2015 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

November 7, 2015 October 8, 2015 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

December 5, 2015 November 6, 2015 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

January 23, 2016 December 28, 2015 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

March 5, 2016 February 4, 2016 SAT Test Only

May 7, 2016 April 8, 2016 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

June 4, 2016 May 6, 2016 SAT Reasoning Test and Subject

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 3 2015 Summer Office Hours at Desert Vista

Summer office hours at DV are the same as during the school year, as listed below: Monday …………………………. 7:30 am-4:00 pm Tuesday …………………………. 7:30 am-4:00 pm Wednesday ……………………….7:30 am-4:00 pm Thursday ………………………… 7:30 am-4:00 pm Friday .. ………………………….. 7:30 am-4:00 pm The office will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2015 in observance of Memorial Day and on Friday, July 3rd, 2015 in observance of 4th of July. The entire campus, including the Office, will be closed from Monday, July 6 through Friday, July 17,

2015-16 School Calendar (Semester One)

July 31 Friday First day of school for freshmen August 3 Monday First day of school for all other students September 7 Monday Labor Day Holiday October 2 Friday End of first quarter October 5-9 Monday-Friday Fall Break October 12 Monday Start of second quarter November 11 Wednesday Veterans’ Day Holiday November 26-27 Thursday-Friday Thanksgiving Holiday December 16-17 Wednesday-Thursday First Semester Exams December 18 Friday No School -Teachers Only December 21 Monday Beginning of Winter Holiday

Newsletter On Line Our Desert Vista newsletter is issued five times a year. To conserve on printing and mailing costs all issues are available on line at the school’s home page, and each time a new issue is completed, a link is mailed to all of the families on our email distribution list. We encourage you to keep up-to-date with all the important school news and announcements by ensuring that the office has your current email address, and by checking the school’s home page on a regular basis.

Page 4 Desert Vista Storm Report Early Out Schedule and Professional Development Days

Regular school hours are from 8:20 am to 3:14 pm. There are 34 early out days for staff development activities; those dates are listed below. School hours on early out days will be from 8:20-2:12, and lunch will be served on those dates.

The early out days are: August 5 October 14 January 6 March 2 May 4 August 12 October 21 January 13 March 16 May 11 August 19 October 28 January 20 March 23 August 26 January 27 March 30 November 4 September 2 November 18 February 3 April 6 September 9 November 25 February 10 April 13 September 16 February 17 April 20 December 2 September 30 February 24 April 27 December 9

There will also be two half days for Professional Development. Students are released at 12:15 pm on those dates, and lunch WILL NOT be served.

The 2015-16 half days are: September 23, 2015 February 10, 2016 Procedures for Student Identification Cards

Recognizing the importance of providing a safe and secure environment, Desert Vista staff and students will be required to wear their IDs on a lanyard during the school day starting on the first day of the 2015-2016 school year. Returning students will be provided their first lanyard and plastic ID protector free of charge at book distribution, and freshmen and all students new to DV will receive them when their IDs are made. Returning students who need replacement IDs will be able to purchase them for $5.00 through the Bookstore at any time. We thank you in advance for assisting us in keeping our school safe.

Pest Control Schedule

Desert Vista has regularly scheduled PEST CONTROL services on the fourth Monday of each month at 6 a.m. Please note this date on your calendar if your student(s) have sensitivity to the chemicals.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 5 From the Registrar’s Office...Ms. Stacey Nielsen-White

Schedule Distribution

All students will receive a hard copy of their schedule during book distribution. This will be the only hard copy that your student will receive. Please have your student look up his or her schedule online Sunday, August 2nd to check for any changes on their schedule. If there have been any changes, the student should print the updated schedule and follow that schedule on Monday, August 3, 2015.

Page 6 Desert Vista Storm Report Schedule Changes

At the time of registration last spring, courses were made and teachers were hired based on student course requests. Students and parents were informed that course changes would not be permitted. Therefore, the only schedule change requests that will be granted before school starts are: 1. If a course change is required to meet graduation/university entrance requirements in the senior year. 2. The course has already been completed (i.e. summer school or online courses). 3. The schedule does not reflect the course request, including the alternate selections. Please be aware that some students were placed in their alternate selections either due to space available or schedule conflicts. If alternate were not provided by the student, alternates were chose for them.

Please be advised:  We cannot change teachers or lunch periods.  Seniors with both 6th and 7th period early release may, because of their selected classes, be required to stay through 5th period.  Students do not get to select the order of their classes—even if they have after school clubs or sports.  All classes have seat maximums and minimums. Students cannot ask a teacher to “squeeze in just one more” student.  Courses taken in TUHSD Summer Academy will have already been removed from the students’ schedule and replaced.

First Day Procedures:  Sunday evening print most updated schedule from StudentVue  Follow the schedule as posted in StudentVue on Monday August 3rd.  Go to counseling ONLY for the following priorities:  Missing class periods—holes in the schedules  No lunch periods provided (4th and 5th hour)  Add TA to schedule—get blue card for teacher and parent approval  Classes have already been completed in summer school  Seniors— schedule does not meet graduation requirements

All other schedule change requests: • Email schedule change requests to the student’s counselor no earlier than Monday, August 3rd at 4:00 pm • Counselors will work on schedule requests in order of request, submitted after 4:00 pm • Schedules will be changed based upon seat availability in all classes. All seat maximums and minimums will be honored.

We are not able to honor the following requests: • Teacher changes • Lunch changes • Movement of classes to other class periods to accommodate work schedules, activities or sports.

Please be advised that DV has experienced record enrollment numbers for the 2015-2016 school year. Class sizes have been maintained at levels consistent with previous years. However, most classes are currently at capacity, not allowing for much class movement. We strive to serve our students providing a comprehensive and individualized educational experience. Many months of planning and preparation have allowed us to give your students the best schedule possible.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 7 Preparing for Success: Thunder Parent Information Session

Desert Vista Administration wants to meet you and discuss... Join us on Wednesday, June 10, 2015  Your role as a parent of DVHS student 6:30—7:30 pm  Tools that will prepare you and your student for success in the at DVHS Dr. Joe McDonald  Academic support programs for you and your students Auditorium  Arizona College & Career Readiness Standards  PARCC Assessments Come out and meet:  Dual credit opportunities

Principal: Mrs. Christine Barela Students are welcome to attend also! Assistant Principals:

Ms. Stacey Nielsen-White– Academics

Mr. TJ Snyder— Athletic Director

Ms. Tomika Bethea– Activities

Page 8 Desert Vista Storm Report

CLASS OF 2019 Welcome to Thunder Day!

Friday, July 31 , 2015

Summer Book 8:20 am --12:20 pm Distribution will We’ve created a day especially for you based on the five pillars of Rachel’s Challenge:

provide: Club and Activities Fair 7:45—8:20 a.m.

1. Look for the best in others.

 T-Shirts to wear on Thunder Day 2. Dream big.  Class schedules to bring on 3. Choose positive influences. Thunder Day 4. Speak with kindness.  Special bus schedule for Thunder 5. Start your own chain reaction. Day  Follow your schedule.  Meet your teachers.  Attend your first high school pep assembly.

PARENT INFORMATION SESSION

8:20 am Navigating High School With Your Student! Phone: 480-706-7900 If your schedule does not permit your attendance, a Power- Website: Point presentation will be post- http://desertvista.schoolfusion.us/ ed on http://desertvista.schoolfusion.us/

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 9 Book Distribution

1. Put it on your calendar so when you are planning your summer vacation we are included! Pick up order is by last name. Please come on your designated day. July 21 A-C 7:30am-2:00pm July 22 D-G 7:30am-2:00pm July 23 H-L 7:30am-2:00pm July 24 M-P 7:30am-2:00pm July 27 Q-S 7:30am-2:00pm July 28 T-Z 7:30am-2:00pm Avoid long lines. Pick up your books before the first July 29 OPEN 3:00pm-7:00pm (if you are unable to come on your designated day) day of class! July 30 OPEN 3:00pm-7:00pm (if you are unable to come on your designated day) July 31 Freshman Orientation – This is NOT a book distribution day 2. Please be sure your student’s fees from the previous school year are PAID IN FULL. This will save time at the register. If you are unsure, send your student by, or call the Bookstore 480-706-7935. Seniors MUST be clear in order to receive their diploma. 3. Seniors ONLY will turn their books into the Bookstore prior to graduation. 4. Under classmen will turn their books into their classroom teachers as they take finals. We will NOT be taking them in the Bookstore unless you are clearing for withdrawal. 5. PLEASE BE PATIENT, we will be working as fast as we can. Do not come if you are pressed for time. Plan on waiting one to two hours. 6. PROCESS a. Start in cafeteria (where it is cool) to pick up your student’s UN-Official schedule b. You will be released over to the Bookstore based on the number of families we have at our windows. c. You will come to the Bookstore counter, where we will take any fees that may be due. Get your PE/Dance/Yoga uniform, pay any Sports activity fees, buy class shirts, etc.. d. We will be pulling your student’s text books while you are at the register, so you have a short, or no wait, when you get outside to the book pick up table. e. Always check your book receipt against the book codes that you receive, to be sure all is correct before you leave. f. If there are any issues (change in schedules, wrong books, etc.) we are happy to deal with those at your conven- ience. g. EVERYONE NEEDS TO print their OFFICIAL schedule Sunday before the first day of school. EVERY Stu- dent MUST have it with them when they arrive Monday morning. Freshman should bring their Un-Official schedule to Freshman Orientation so they can walk their class route. h. ALL students need to bring their OFFICIAL schedule with them on Monday morning, prior to going to their first class. Every class will be assigned a specific location to check in at before they go to their first class. Be sure you student is at school early. i. If you have any questions, please give us a call prior!

The Bookstore now accepts Master Card, Visa, Discover as well as cash, checks and debit cards.

Page 10 Desert Vista Storm Report Book Store Pay Slip

BOOK STORE PAY SLIP

Make checks payable to DVHS. Please include Student ID# and home phone number on the check for identification.

Student ID#______

Extracurricular Fee: $ 1.00 (required) ______Course Fees: See current fees list (required) ______Activity Fee: ($50.00) See activity list for participation ______Debts: See debt list ______PE Uniform (top and bottom): $ 15.00 ______Advanced Weight Training Uniform (top and bottom): $ 15.00 ______Dance Uniform: $ 15.00 ______Dance Capri: $ 15.00 ______Yearbook: $ 65.00 ______Web Assign On-line Access (Calculus students only): $ 22.00 ______Athletic Passes - Good for all NON-AIA, Home athletic events Athletic Passes: Student $ 40.00 ______Adult $ 75.00 ______Family $140.00 ______TOTAL: ______

Please fill out pay slip ahead of time, but do not total until fees are confirmed. Thank you.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 11 Course Fee Schedule

The fee program was implemented to cover the additional supply cost of particular curriculum areas. The following is a list of course fees to be paid when books are picked up. Refunds for course fees are only given during the first ten days of school if a student’s schedule has been changed. Business Art, continued FA20—Intro to Computer Graphics $ 25 BU12—Accounting 1-2 $ 15 FA08—2-Dimensional Graphic Art 1-2 25 BU13— Accounting 3-4 15 Drama BU16—Business Law 10 FA40—Basic Drama $ 15 BU19—Sports & Entertainment Marketing 15 FA41—Production & Performance 15 BU22—Financial Planning 10 FA38—Film Study 1 10 BU24—Honors Advanced Accounting 15 FA39—Film Study 2 10 BU25—Marketing 1-2 25 Music BU26—Advanced Marketing 25 FA86—Music Theory $ 15 BU28—Business Internship 25 FA75—Intermediate Band 30 BU41—Desktop Publishing 10 FA76—Junior Varsity Band 30 BU42—Multimedia Technology 10 FA77—Varsity Band 30 BU43—Advanced Multimedia Technology 15 FA80—Percussion Class 30 FA61—Choir 1-2 30 English FA62—Choir 3-4 30 FA63—Choir 5-6 30 EN87—Beginning TV Production $ 25 FA64—Choir 7-8 30 EN88—Advanced TV Production 25 FA68—Beginning Guitar 30 FA69—Intermediate Guitar 30 Family/Consumer Science FA70—Advanced Guitar 30 FA78—Concert String Orchestra 30 H101—Culinary Arts 1 $ 20 FA79—Symphony Orchestra 30 H102—Culinary Arts 2 20 H103—Culinary Arts 3 25 H104—Culinary Arts 4 25 Physical Education H117—Child Development I 15 PE13—Intermediate Dance $ 10 H118—Child Development II 15 PE14 or FA90—Advanced Dance 10 H121—Advanced Child Development 35 PE19 or FA91—Dance Performance 10 Fine Arts Technical Education

Art H130—Intro to Technology $ 20 FA02—Art & Design $ 30 H151—Automotive Technology 1-2 30 FA05—Ceramics 1-2 35 H152—Automotive Technology 3-4 30 FA06—Ceramics 3-4 35 H154—Auto Mechanics 1-2 30 FA07—Ceramics 5-6 35 H155—Auto Mechanics 3-4 30 FA34—Ceramics 7-8 35 H165—ICE 30 FA13—Drawing & Painting 5-6 35 H145—CISCO 20 FA23—Photography 1-2 40 H160—Computer Manufacturing 20 FA24—Photography 3-4 50 H164—Mechancial Engineering 30 FA25—Photography 5-6 50 FA33—Art History 15

Students who cannot afford these fees will be provided financial assistance. No student will be denied access to a course due to a lack of ability to pay. These course fees are subject to change in future years.

Page 12 Desert Vista Storm Report Activity Fees The activity fee is designed to cover the stipend for coaches and activity sponsors. Keep in mind that the fee is eligible for tax credit. A fee of $50.00 is charged for participation in the following activities:

BADMINTON DANCE NEWSPAPER TENNIS BASEBALL DRAMA SOFTBALL TRACK BAND/COLOR GUARD FOOTBALL SOCCER VOLLEYBALL BASKETBALL STUDENT COUNCIL SPIRIT LINE/CHEER WRESTLING CHESS TEAM GOLF SPECIAL OLYMPICS YEARBOOK

CHORAL GUITAR ENSEMBLE SPEECH & DEBATE ORCHESTRA CROSS COUNTRY LITERARY MAGAZINE SWIMMING/DIVING PERCUSSION

Yearbooks

The 2015-2016 Storm Yearbooks are on sale for $65 through December 31, 2015, $75 through May 1, 2016, and $85 through the end of school at the bookstore. Purchases can also be made online at jostens.com Be certain to keep your receipt as proof of your purchase. Help create the story of our year by getting YOUR photos in the yearbook? Go to ReplayIt.com and log in to Desert Vista's site. ReplayIt takes the yearbook to a new level allowing our school community to share in the moments of the year. Need advertising information, questions about senior public displays of affection "Baby ads" or want to contribute photographs, stories and ideas to our Thunder Media Newsroom? Visit the Desert Vista homepage, click on the left-side drop-down menu for Thunder Media Information.

Desert Vista Childcare Now Enrolling for 2015-16

Desert Vista Early Learning Center is currently enrolling for 2015-2016 school year. Our program is available to children of teachers, staff, and community members.

Our goal at DV Early Learning Center is to create a positive and nurturing environment conducive to early learning for children ages 2.5-5 years old. Our staff assists every child in reaching his or her optimal development through hands-on experiences in every early-childhood domain. Our center offers Kindergarten prep to children ages 4-5.

We're closed during the summer, but if you’re interested in registering for our dynamic program, please contact Jody Cadwell at [email protected]. Tours are available by appointment. You may also find more information and registration packets on DV’s website under the information tab.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 13 Desert Vista—Rio Salado Dual Enrollment 2015--2016

Dual enrollment courses allow high school students the ability to earn college credit and high school credit simultaneously. For more information about dual enrollment, eligibility, residency, prerequisites, and a list of courses offered at Desert Vista in 2015-2016, click on www.riosalado.edu/dual. List of participating schools link on the right for information regarding Desert Vista.

 Dual enrollment teachers will provide registration information to their students when school resumes in August. Students will register for both fall and spring courses in September.  For tuition assistance please visit www.riosalado.edu/dual or call 480-517-8080.

Placement Testing:

Some courses require placement testing prior to registration. The Accuplacer test was provided at DV in April for students who will need it for fall enrollment in a Rio Salado class. Students who did not take the Accuplacer or did not have a high enough test score, please read below:

Students who did not take the Accuplacer tests at DV this spring will need to go to a Rio Testing Center over the summer. Go to: www.riosalado.edu/locations/Pages/testing.aspx for testing locations and hours. Students will need a picture ID to test.

 First time dual enrollment math students take: College Math Accuplacer  All students taking Advanced Composition take: Sentence Skills Accuplacer  Incoming Sophomores (Class of 2016) take: Reading Accuplacer

Please ask for a print out of the student’s score. (Students will need to attach a copy of the score report to their registration in the fall.)

If you have any questions, please contact the Desert Vista Counseling Department and ask to speak with a Rio Counselor.

Apply now for Tuition Assistance for next year (2015-16). Start your college education by enrolling in dual enrollment classes that will grant you high school and college credit simultaneously. Tuition Assistance is available for those that meet the eligibility requirements. Interested students need to complete the pre-approval process for the school year by submitting application paperwork now. Tuition Assistance is open starting March 23rd, 2015 through May 30th, 2015. Registration for actual classes will begin Fall 2015. For more details, visit our dual enrollment website at www.riosalado.edu/dual or visit the Counseling Office.

Page 14 Desert Vista Storm Report District Handbook

On Thursday, August 6, 2015, District Student Handbooks will be distributed to all students. This handbook must be taken home and shared with parents or guardians. Parents/guardians will need to sign where indicated and return the signature page with the student to the school. Please note that this page is where you will need to notate if you choose the military opt-out option for your student/s. We ask that you keep this book available as it contains many district-related policies and procedures that you may find informative throughout the year. JROTC Information

JROTC classes are held at Marcos de Niza High School. JROTC students should report to Desert Vista High School on Monday, August 3rd at 6:25 am to take the bus behind the school on Liberty Lane to Marcos de Niza for your JROTC class. Upper class cadets in uniform will assist you. JROTC class at Marcos de Niza is from 7:10 am to 7:45 am. You will be dismissed from JROTC at 7:45 am to take the bus back to the Desert Vista. Parents may drive their cadet to/from Marcos de Niza. All Cadets should report to the MdN Gym Annex. For questions CLICK HERE to visit our website or contact LTC Patrick Stolze at 480-730-7685; or email [email protected].

Cafeteria Information

For information on Cafeteria services for the 2015-16 school year please see the web site at https://www.tuhsd.k12.az.us/index.php. You will be able to create an account for your student(s) during book distribution and additional information will be available at that time.

Tax Credit Donation

A donation of $400 per couple or $200 per single parent may be made to the school. When utilizing a tax credit donation, please indicate the areas to receive your funds (i.e. student, club, or activity). Individuals can use the tax credit program; businesses and corporations are not eligible. Please note that social security numbers are not required on the tax credit forms. CLICK HERE for the a link to the tax credit donation form.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 15 Attendance Line

VOICEMAIL MESSAGE SYSTEM AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY 480-706-7906

Only parents or legal guardians may call the attendance line.

Please call the Attendance Line and choose one of three options: Option 1 If the student needs to leave campus early and receive an off campus pass, please leave the following information: the student’s name and student ID number, spelling the last name clearly; your name and relationship to the student; and the time and reason the student will be leaving campus. It is imperative you state that the student is allowed to drive or walk off campus, or who will be picking them up. Students are to sign out through the front office before leaving campus. Option 2 To report an absence or late arrival for a freshman or sophomore student please leave the following information: the student’s name and ID number, spelling the last name clearly; the date(s) and reason for the absence; your name and relationship to the student; and a daytime phone number. Option 3 To report an absence or late arrival for a junior or senior student please leave the following information: the student’s name and ID number, spelling the last name clearly; the date(s) and reason for the absence; your name and relationship to the student; and a daytime phone number. If you have questions regarding an attendance matter press 0.

*Excessive absences, (11 or more) excused or unexcused, may result in a loss of credit per class, per semester. Eleven absences in four or more classes may result in the student being withdrawn from school.

Desert Vista has implemented an automated calling system. If your child is marked absent in one or more classes, you will receive an automated phone call. If your child was absent, please call the appropriate attendance line option. If you think your child was marked absent in error, please have the student check with his/her teacher the following day. Desert Vista is a closed campus. Do not call to request off campus passes for your children to leave for lunch. Students will not be released during their lunch hour unless picked up by parents or legal guardians. Please come in and sign the student out. Students are not to be picked up curbside. Parents going out-of-town and leaving students in the care of a designated adult must provide the attendance office with a notarized statement with the caretaker’s name and telephone numbers.

Page 16 Desert Vista Storm Report Open House

The administration and staff welcome you to Desert Vista High School. We feel that it is very important to get acquainted and work together for the benefit of the students. The Open House will be held on Monday, August 17, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. in the gymnasium. Following a brief program, you will follow your son/daughter’s class schedule. During the 10-minute class period, each teacher will give you information regarding the goals and objectives of their course. Please call/email the teacher if you would like to discuss your child’s progress, as there is not enough time during the evening to do so. You will need a copy of your child’s schedule. Please, ask your child for a copy of one. The Administration Office will be open at 6:30 p.m. for those of you who may need help with class locations, maps, or schedules. Below is the format for the evening. 7:00 p.m. Gymnasium 7:20 p.m. Zero Hour 7:35 p.m. First Hour 7:50 p.m. Second Hour 8:05 p.m. Third Hour 8:20 p.m. Fourth/Fifth Hour 8:35 p.m. Sixth Hour 8:50 p.m. Seventh Hour

Change of Address 2015-16 The Post Office will not forward school or district mail, so if you move, you need to provide the Attendance Department with your current SRP statement reflecting your new address. Thank you!

Classroom Interruptions and Delivery of Student Items

In our attempt to keep classroom interruptions to a minimum and student learning to maximum, instruction time will not be interrupted except in emergency situations. The front office staff will not be able to hold, take or deliver student items. However, we do understand that a student may forget some items, therefore a parent/guardian may wait in the front office until passing period whereby the front office staff will page the student. The parent will then be able to hand the items to his or her child.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 17 From the Activities Office...Ms. Tomika Bethea Booster Clubs/Parent Involvement

All parents are encouraged to join one of the many booster clubs at Desert Vista. Booster Club information is available in the school newsletter or through the teacher sponsoring the club. Any questions concerning Booster Clubs can be answered by calling the Activities or Athletic Office. Check out http://dvhsthunderboard.org/ for information about Booster Club activities at DV. Parents are also encouraged to participate in the Site-Based Council. Meetings are advertised in our newsletter. The Site–Based Council meets the second Monday of each month.

Parent Hospitality Dessert Days

Each staff development day, many of our parents have donated snacks, fruit, desserts and such to be given to the teachers as they participate in professional development activities or work within their professional learning communities. We sincerely thank you! We are looking for parent(s) to volunteer to organize this experience for the coming school year. If you have any interest in serving in this capacity, please contact Tomika Bethea at [email protected]. She will be able to explain exactly what is involved in this volunteer activity. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Student Drop Off/Pick Up

Always drop off and pick up students in the north parking lot off of Frye Road. Visitors, special needs students, and staff use the front parking lot off of 32nd Street.

Technology Use Agreement

Every student must have a signed technology use agreement completed and on file. This form allows your son/daughter to use computers on our campus.

Freshmen Elections

All freshmen who wish to campaign for a class office must pick up a petition. Please listen for school announcements regarding the date, time, and location. Once petitions have been returned, there will be a meeting to explain campaign criteria. Campaign speeches will be video-taped and shown during student announcements.

Page 18 Desert Vista Storm Report Dress Code

A dress code at Desert Vista has been established to wallet chains are exam- promote a positive school environment. We want to ples of clothing, attire provide the freedom for students to express them- or accessories which selves within the set of parameters listed below. are not permitted to be  Attire or accessories which advertise, display worn at school. and/or promote any drug, alcohol or tobacco,  Shoes must be worn. sexual activity, violence, disrespect and/or bigot- House slippers or ry towards any group or person are not allowed. shoes with soles similar  Dress, jewelry and other accessories that present are deemed unsafe and risk to the health, safety, and general welfare of not school appropriate. the students, or which express obscenities, im-  Sunglasses and hats may not be worn in the modestly expose the chest, abdomen, legs or classroom. buttocks are prohibited. (No BBBB—breasts,  Pajamas are prohibited. Dress bellies, backs or butts). Tube tops, halter tops or dresses without over-the-shoulder straps are not  No bandanas or doo rags are Code acceptable forms of attire. allowed at school or school activities. policies  Low cut or see-through shirts, underwear worn are as outerwear, tube tops, halter tops, tops that On campus, the faculty, staff and are low-cut are not permitted to be worn at administration have the responsibil- displayed school. ity to interpret and enforce this pol- around icy. The administration retains the  Pants must pulled to hip level and secured tight- final discretion to determine that our ly to ensure that undergarments are not exposed the garment or accessory meets the campus. and that pants are not dragging on the ground. dress code. Dress code policies will  Cut-offs, muscle tee’s, spiked jewelry and/or be displayed on and around campus.

Student Parking Lot

School lot parking passes are SOLD OUT, we are still offering passes in the church lot. Applications are available by clicking HERE.

Church parking lot passes go on sale Tuesday, May 26, 2015 in the school bookstore.

Applicants need to have a Driver's License or Graduated Instructional Permit prior to apply for a parking permit. Applicants are issued a parking permit at the time of purchase. The student church lot parking fee for the 2015-16 school year is $100. Please note that replacement permits are $40 and are issued per the approval of the Assistant Principal of Activities. Have a good summer and drive safely!

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 19 Cell Phone Policy

In order to meet our goals, we Phones will be available for par- Desert Vista is not responsible have modified our school cell ent pickup afterschool. If stu- for stolen or missing equipment phone usage policy. We must dents do not follow school poli- and it is strongly encouraged minimize distractions if we are to cies, they will be considered to be that they not be brought to cam- maintain academic excellence. insubordinate and appropriate pus. Cell phones will be prohibited discipline will result. Students during instruction time (unless are encouraged not to bring directed by instructor) and “No iPods, mp3 players, laser point- Tech Zones”. No Tech Zones in- ers, headsets, cameras or video clude all restrooms, PE locker recorders, any game playing de- rooms, front office, and library vice, or any personal electronic or (during instruction time). digital music devices on campus. Phones may be used before Lost or stolen cell phones or de- school, passing periods, during vices are the responsibility of the lunch, and after school only. Stu- student. Bringing the item to dents caught using their phones school is at the students’ own during those unauthorized peri- risk for loss/theft. ods and zones will result in the phone being confiscated by staff or security personnel. Library/Media Center Hours

The Library will be open at 7:15 AM each day and close on regular school days at 4 pm. The facility will close shortly after the final bell on early release days. Usage during school hours will require a teacher-signed pass. No food or drink (with the exception of water) is allowed in the Library or the computer labs. The Library will be open during lunch time for students who need to work on school-related projects and assignments. Any other activities such as playing games or socializing must take place in other designated areas on campus that remain open during lunch time. We will continue to adhere to the fire code capacity, and as such, students will be advised that if they are not doing school-related work and/or we are at or nearly over capacity, they will be asked to leave the Library to make room for students who are waiting to enter to do school work. We thank everyone for their continued support and understanding.

Please contact Ms. Tomika Bethea if there are any questions about these policies.

Page 20 Desert Vista Storm Report Calendar of Events

Underclass Pictures August 26 & 27, 2015 Tukee Bowl October 2, 2015 Homecoming Assembly October 30th, 2015 Homecoming Football Game October 30th, 2015 Homecoming Dance October 31st, 2015 Prom April 16, 2016

School Dances

The administration staff would like to share with parents and students some guidelines for dances at the school. Students must show a current Desert Vista identification card to be permitted into a dance. Stu- dents are not allowed to leave and re-enter a dance under any circumstances. Guests are permitted with proper paperwork and prior approval from the Activities Office. Guests must have a guest pass and picture identification card to enter the dance. Guests cannot be in Middle School/Junior High School and must be under the age of 21. Students are limited to one guest.

No suggestive or lewd dancing will be allowed. We will not allow behavior at dances that should be em- barrassing to students and their families. No lap dancing will be tolerated. Any students dancing inappro- priately will be asked to leave and will be banned from future dances.

Purses, bags, clothing and vehicles can be searched for items you may not bring into a dance. Items such as drink containers, water bottles, or any item that may contain an illegal substance will not be allowed inside the gate. Students who arrive under the influence will be referred to the on-duty officer, parents will be notified, and they will be subject to a minimum ten-day off-campus suspension. They also may lose their privileges to attend future school dances. We want school dances to be fun and memorable; a positive experience for all students. Dances start at 8:00 pm and end promptly at 11:00 pm. If you are picking up your son or daughter, please pick them up at 11:00 pm.

Bus Schedules

Bus schedules will be available at the time of book distribution and on the school’s web page.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 21 From the Athletics Office...Mr. T.J. Snyder P.E. Lockers P.E. lockers are required for all P.E. students. Lockers are provided free of charge. Locks are also provided but must be returned at the end of the year or the student will be charged $8.00. P.E. Uniforms Students must dress out for physical education classes in order to participate. P.E. department personnel will establish a minimum standard of clothing to be worn for class which students may bring from home or purchase from the Bookstore. Uniforms are available for P.E. and Advanced Weight Training for $15.00 (or $8.00 for shorts or t-shirt individually) and include a set of Desert Vista shirt/shorts. Fall Sports

In order for a student to participate in a fall sport, the following essential paperwork must be completed and submitted to the Athletics Department. Forms are available by clicking on Athletics Department web site.

1) Two copies of the A.I.A .Pre-Physical/Physical forms, completed after March 1 of the prior school year. 2) A.I.A. Annual Participation Acknowledgment. 3) Two copies of the Emergency Consent/Acknowledgment Sheet- available on the Desert Vista Athletics Webpage. This needs to be signed in front of school staff by parent/guardian, or notarized prior to submitting to the Athletics Department. 4) BrainBook Course as required by the A.I.A. must be completed with a score of 80% or better in order to print the required certificate. 5) Complete Online Desert Vista Athletic Application, which is also available on the Desert Vista Athletics Webpage. 1) Original Birth Certificate or valid passport (will be copied) for incoming freshmen/new athletes. (No copies will be accepted.) 2) Sports Risk Video Acknowledgement (acknowledge consent in the form required at item three.) 3) DVHS Athletics Handbook Acknowledgement (acknowledge viewing this on the consent form in item three.) 4) Receipt for participation in each sport. $50.00 paid at the DV Bookstore, checks made payable to DVHS. Participation fee is required prior to clearance.

At freshmen orientation, additional information will be given regarding participation in our athletic program.

Football begins August 5th; Boys and girls Swim/Dive, Boys and Girls Cross Country, Girls Volleyball and Badminton, and Boys and Girls Golf start August 12th.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 22 ***Varsity Football*** You will need to have all of your information/forms turned into the Athletic Of- fice by August 1. Permissive football starts on August 4, and all of these athletes must be cleared PRIOR to August 1. Please ensure all documents are properly prepared for presentation to Athletics, this is the only time available. Please contact Ms. Slavin at 480-4-709-7913 or [email protected] for more information. All athletes MUST be cleared in order to participate in an A.I.A. (Arizona Interscholastic Association) sport. Students who will be participating in a Fall Sport can be cleared in the Athletics’ Office starting on Wednesday, July 24 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please bring all of the required forms with you.

Arizona Interscholastic Association Rules of Eligibility

Parent/Guardian Permission: Any Desert Vista student who wishes to compete in athletic contests with other schools must first comply with the stipulations listed above for Athletic Clearance. All information must be filled out, and signed by guardian/parents prior to clearance. Physical Examination: No student shall be eligible to represent his/her high school in any athletic contest if a physical examination form is not on file with the Athletic Director. The physical examination form must be signed by an M.D., D.O., N.P. or R.N. and include verification that, in the opinion of the examin- ing physician, the athlete is fully able to compete in athletic contests. The physical exam for 2015-16 school year must have taken place AFTER March 1st, 2015. Age Limit: If the athlete becomes 19 years of age after September 1 of the current school year, he/she is eligible to compete for the remainder of that school year. If the athlete becomes 19 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year, he/she is not eligible for any part of that school year. A certified copy of the birth certificate shall be required of all contestants. Transfer Students: Contact Mr. Snyder regarding any questions at [email protected]. Scholarship (Student status on given campus): A student must have received a passing grade in the preceding nine-weeks of school in each of five or more subjects. Thereafter, the athlete must be enrolled in and passing a minimum of five (5) classes (not including study hall; only credit-earning classes can be counted as one of the five (5) classes for eligibility) throughout the time of eligibility. Exceptions:  Students in their seventh or eighth semester of enrollment, meeting all graduation requirements must be enrolled in a minimum of four (4) credit bearing classes.  Students who have release for seminary will be able to participate as long as the student has the necessary credit-bearing classes on campus. Absences: In cases where a student is out of school for a period of more than ten (10) consecutive days for reasons other than the disabling illness of the athlete or a member of his/her immediate family, the athlete shall be ineligible for the remainder of the semester. A student must attend 50% of school on game days or better in order to complete in that day’s activities. All absences must be excused. Competition: Students who participate on a team outside of their high school in the same sport/same season shall be barred from further interscholastic participation on the high school team. Eight Semester Rule: No student who has been enrolled in grades 9-12 inclusive for more than eight semes- ters will compete in any interscholastic contest. Participation Fee: Students are required to pay a $50.00 activity fee per sport at the Bookstore during book distribution. Failure to pay will prevent students from competitive participation, as this is a district- wide policy. (continued on next page)

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 23 AIA Rules of Eligibility

(continued from previous page)  Insurance must be provided for athlete by parent/legal guardian, or through purchase of an accidental insurance policy. The insurance purchased via the forms available at the school is secondary to that of the parent/legal guardian. Should you wish to purchase coverage, the forms may be picked up in the Athletics Office. Note: If equipment was checked out the preceding school year and athlete did not return it or did not pay for the replacement of any lost or damaged equipment, additional equipment will not be loaned to athlete.

If you go out for additional sports during the year, all previous sport equipment must be turned in to the equipment manager before going to the Athletic Office to get clearance for new sport. Remember that athletes are borrowing the equipment from the school, and necessary care must be taken with all said equipment. Athletes are responsible for washing uniforms during the season and keeping them in good condition. Any equipment not returned must be paid for in the Bookstore.

NCAA Eligibility Requirements

Want to play college sports? You can track your Core Course GPA. Use the NCAA Academic Eligibility Tool for high school student-athletes. It’s easy: Activate Your FREE Membership Now! 1. Go to www.CoreCourseGPA.com 2. In the “New Member Account Creation” box enter: School ID: 030328 School Code: 722692278 Sophomores and Juniors should pre-register on the NCAA Eligibility Center website PLEASE NOTE there have been changes for freshmen: be sure to check the NCAA Eligibility Center Quick Reference Guide by CLICKING HERE. Please contact John Matthews with any questions at [email protected] or call 706-7900 ext: 2146.

Athletic Passes

Student and family athletic passes will be available in the Bookstore. An athletic pass will allow the holder onto campus sporting events at a reduced cost. These passes may be purchased at the Bookstore and are good for regular season home athletic events only. Athletic passes cannot be used for admittance to tour- naments or AIA events. Student Season Pass $40 Family Activity Pass $140 Two Adults Season Pass $75

Page 24 Desert Vista Storm Report

NCAA Eligibility and Checklist

As part of the NCAA Initial Eligibility qualifying process, student-athletes must achieve a minimum core GPA and SAT or ACT score. Division I uses a sliding scale based on core course GPA to determine the minimum qualifying test scores. NCAA Checklist Use the Eligibility Worksheet in order to calculate your Core GPA for the NCAA Requirements. Make sure you take (or retake) your 10 core courses before the start of your senior year. Before your senior year, register with the NCAA. Go to www.EligibilityCenter.org and create an account. There will be a fee in order to register for the NCAA. Send your transcript after your 6th semester (end of your 11th grade year) and after your 8th semester (after you graduate). Seniors: Go to www.Parchment.com and create an account to send your transcript to the NCAA. Juniors: See the assistant registrar, Mrs. Thomas, in the front office to have your transcript sent to the NCAA. Send your official SAT or ACT test scores to the NCAA. NCAA super scores, and so it is to your advantage to send all of your test scores to the NCAA. They will use your best combined scores from your Reading + Math (SAT) or English + Math + Science + Reading (ACT). Enter code 9999 to send your scores from the following websites: SAT: www.collegeboard.org ACT: www.ACTstudent.org

Additional NCAA Information Desert Vista High School Code is 030328 The Clearinghouse is only for Division I and Division II universities and colleges.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 25 Counseling Website & facebook Page

For information about the following topics and more, visit the Counseling Department website and/or the Department’s facebook page. DV Counselors Graduation and college entrance School profile Scholarship and financial Aid Advanced Placement College visits Career and group counseling College entrance exams Dual enrollment Classroom Presentations

Section 504 If you need information, assistance, or have questions regarding eligibility for Section 504 please contact your student’s grade level counselor in the Counseling Department at Desert Vista at 480.706.7900 extension 7944.

Child Find

Tempe Union High School District will ensure that all children with disabilities within our boundaries, including children with disabilities who are homeless or wards of the State, and children with disabilities attending private schools or who are home schooled, and who are in need of special education and related services are identified, located and evaluated (Sec. 300.111). Please contact Educational Services at the Tempe Union High School District at 480.345.3705 or the Desert Vista Campus at 480.706.7900 extension 2166.

Educational Services

If you need information or assistance regarding your student’s Individual Education Plan (I.E.P.) please contact the Educational Services Department at Desert Vista at 480.706.7900 extension 2166.

Senior Parent and NCAA Information Night Scholarships, college entrance requirements, SAT and ACT tests—what parents should know. There will be an informative session for parents of seniors for the 2015-2016 school year brought to you by the Desert Vista Counseling Department. Please plan to attend before the Open House on Monday, August 17 from 6:00—6:50 p.m. in the Desert Vista Joe McDonald Auditorium. In addition, there will be an informational meeting held in the Cafeteria that same evening for freshmen, sophomores and juniors who are potential college athletes. This presentation will cover NCAA eligibility requirements, so be sure to attend if you have a high school athlete.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 26 Desert Vista Counseling Office Duties 2015/16 In an effort to improve your ability to get in touch with your child’s counselor, we have implemented a “telephone tree” system. Call the general Desert Vista number (480-706-7900) and press the number five (5). The greeting will then prompt you to chose an option for the counselor. The option numbers immedi- ately follow the names as listed below.

Amie Hickel 1 Kari Fischer 5 Classes of 2017 Gifted Counselor Grades 10-12 P-T Grades 10-12 U-Z John Matthews __ 8 Mark Kulik 2 Freshman/Transition Counselor Classes of 2019, 2018 & 2016 Gifted Counselor Beth Lyon _ 0 Counseling Department Assistant Kate Dowd 3 Grades 10-12 A-De Diana Brown _ 4 Career Technician Karen Hinds 7 Grades 10-12 Di-J Helen Hale 9 Tempe Social Services Counselor Mickey Krebs 6 Tuesday & Thursday only Grades 10-12 K-O

Sophomore and Junior College Prep Parent Night

Worried about the College and Scholarship Search Process?

Parents should plan to attend the Sophomore and Junior Parent Night on Tuesday, September 1 at 6:30 p.m. in the Dr. Joe McDonald Auditorium for information on college selection, , test preparation, scholarship searches etc.

Page 27 Desert Vista Storm Report Summer Reading from the English Department

Summer Reading from the English Department 2015-2016

The required summer reading list and any supplemental handouts are located on the English Depart- ment homepage of the school website. http://english.desertvista.schoolfusion.us/modules/groups/integrated_home.phtml? gid=1911449&sessionid=d2753ca7f607f43032caaf69f3aca288

 Honors Freshman: Till We Have Faces and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens  Honors Sophomore: Les Miserables  Honors Junior: Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass: An American Slave  AP Language and Composition: Walden and Other Writings  Advanced Composition: A nonfiction selection from the Writing Mentor list on the English Department homepage  AP Literature and Composition: The Iliad (Lombardo Translation)

HOSA

The DV-HOSA team recently returned from the Arizona HO- SA State Leadership Conference in Tucson, where 60 DV students competed in 15 different events against students from high school and CTE programs across the state. We are proud to announce another outstanding year of accomplishments for Gen Fitzgerald our students, who all study independently for their events. We captured gold in five events, and had multiple students place in the Top 5 for eight events! All students who placed in the top three for their events have qualified to represent Arizona at the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim this June 2015. Thank you to all, as they could not have achieved these results without your support and assistance this year! DV stu- Simon Shen dents Gen Fitzgerald ('15) and Simon Shen ('16) competed in the Arizona Science and Engineering Fair and both of them will be receiving awards for their work. Great job, everyone!!

Page 28 Desert Vista Storm Report Summer Homework from the Math Department

Dear incoming Honors Algebra 3-4 and Pre-calculus students (and parents/guardians),

Welcome to Honors Algebra 3-4/Pre-calculus! Here are a few things you need to know about your next year math course:

Summer Review Homework

Success in Honors Algebra 3-4 and Pre-calculus depends strongly upon math skills learned in previous math classes. In order to set the stage for success next year in math, we require that students review these previous class math skills over the summer. To help students review, we’ve developed an online library of short video lessons and practice work- sheets. Students can access this material online throughout the summer to review important math ideas needed for next year.

Over the summer, students taking honors algebra 3-4 or pre-calculus next year need to:

Browse to the online library at www.mrfelling.com/library 1. Take the ‘pre-quiz’ for your subject to identify which topics you need to review (the answer key tells you which topics to review for each pre-quiz problem you missed). 2. Use the videos and practice sheets to review the topics you need to review. Come to school next year prepared to take a test over these topics during the first week of class. If you have any questions about the review material, please email [email protected].

Calculators

A graphing calculator is required for this course. We strongly recommend that you purchase a Ti-83 or Ti-84 before the start of year rush. These are user-friendly calculators made by Texas Instruments. They are often advertised with back-to-school sales. It is essential to have your calculator and become familiar with it before the start of the school year.

Working diligently on the summer review homework and obtaining a graphing calculator will set the stage for success in your math course!

Have a great summer break!

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 29 Keeping up with the Business Department…...

Desert Vista Business has Banner Year 2015

Desert Vista Business Prep students had a tremendous 2014/2015. More than 125 business students competed in several venues and exceeded in all. Here are the highlights of the year. Students who competed in the two Junior Achievement competitions were nothing less than outstanding. In the fall our Stock Market Challenge Team was #1 again for the 6th time in the last seven years. Jr. Achievement Stock Market Challenge Competition 2014 First Place Team: Aiden Marian Connor Hogan Rohit Rungta

Winning Team is pictured with Jr. Achievement Officers. From left to right are: Daniel Chimal, Connor Watson, Nick Maxwell, Rohit Rungta, and Aiden Marian

At the You’re Hired competition students showed off their professional business skills.

Jr. Achievement You’re Hired Completion 2015

Networking Challenge: Thinking On Your Feet 1st –KJ Crouch, Desert Vista High School (KJ is a 1st – Aidan Marin, Desert Vista High School 3 time winner in this event) Interviewing Challenge 3rd – Aaron Beauchamp, Desert Vista High School 1st – Aidan Marin, Desert Vista High School Dress for Success – School Great Leadership Experiment Challenge 2nd – Desert Vista High School 1st – Desert Vista High School – Team Captain Dress for Success – Male Dalton Davis 1st – Zak Koudasi, Desert Vista High School Spirit of Excellence Awards Other Finalists - Josh Palmer Myles Wilson, Matt 3rd – Desert Vista High School – Dina Elsharkawy Kellogg, Philip Brandis Social Media Photography Winner Female Finalists – Cait Cambell, Allison Beau- Ryan Cuenca champ, Madeline Jacobs

Page 30 Desert Vista Storm Report Wharton's School of Business (Penn University) 2014/2015

This year three students took on the finance competition sponsored by the Wharton School of Busi- ness. They competed against almost 300 teams from all over the world. They had a great first competition and intend to win it all next year. Ishan Pannala Edward Lon Connor Hogan These Students had to complete an actual financial portfolio in the 12 week international competition.

Varsity Mock Trial Team Competition.

This year’s team did extremely well in the Xavier Invitational and the Re- gional tournament. They won many individual awards (selected by their competitive teams) for their roles as an attorney and in their witness roles. This group put in about 190 of training with practicing attorneys on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings.

Captain Dina Elsharkawy (our Sandra Day O’Connor Award Winner) Kyler Chaddock Zak Koudssi Jeb Tompkins Sean Longley Madeline Jacobs Rick Newport Ben Kunze

DECA

DECA is the largest student organization dedicated to advancing business principles. 26 competitors represented Desert Vista at the State competition. We competed against 2,300 students from across the state of Arizona. The following were recognized for their hard work and success: Test medal awards based on Academic written test - Peter Cornacchio, Tommy Floegel, Connor Gill, Aidan Marin, Madi Ryan and Tanner Targowski.

Role play awards and finalists based on simulated business scenario/students act as business consult- ants Jeff Herman, Colin Smith and Tanner Targowski.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 31 Business Department (continued……)

The following individuals qualified for National competition at Disneyworld- Tommy Floegel (4th place), Aidan Marin (State champion), Hannah Law and Madi Ryan partnered for State champions.

Pictured left to right Hannah Law, Tanner Targowski, Tommy Flogle, Colin Smith, Peter Cornac- chio, Adin Marian, and Madi Ryan.

Business Prep Students – Best in District and State Excel in Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certifications

Desert Vista business students who complete two years of business curriculum are tested by the state under the CTE guidelines. Business Management and Administrative Services (BMAS) are the specific state standards tested. They include a wide range of business topics from marketing, finance, ac- Nathan Cederdahl counting, entrepreneurship, use of technology, communica- tions, problem solving, and business management.

162 business students from Desert Vista tested. This is the largest group from any Arizona school. Their overall average score was 14% higher than the state average and 6% higher than the district average. These students will be recognized Entrepreneur for their achievements along with other CTE programs in a student Sabrineh th Safai shows off her district ceremony on May 12 . The certificates students re- invitation to CTE ceive will outline their achievements as compared to state busi- Awards Ceremony. ness standards.

Junior Nathan Cederdahl had the highest Desert Vista score and the highest score for the district.

Desert Vista offers tremendous opportunities for business clas- Finance students ses. The core classes are Computer Applications, Entrepre- Matthew Wauson, Jared Ostendorp, neurship, Sports and Marketing, Business Law, Financial Plan- Myles Wilson, Cameron Rayfordm ning and Investing, Advanced Business Marketing, Advanced and Nate Devore also have their Business Management, Multi Media and Web Design. invitations.

Page 32 Desert Vista Storm Report Market Day

Market Day is an exercise in the ther than ending with a profit. freedom to do what we wanted. free enterprise system. Students Below are comments from stu- I made a small profit from mar- taking entrepreneurship work dent entrepreneurs: ket day which made me feel like the entire semester in their prep- we were very successful. The on- aration for market day. Early in Market day is a unique oppor- ly negative to market day was the the semester the basic of market- tunity and I'm glad that Desert temperature outside. I'm a baby ing is covered in class and stu- Vista is able to provide the mate- when it comes to heat so that dents begin working in their rials for me and my market day was a little rough for me. From business groups. They conduct group to sell our products. I this class I learned that even I can be an entrepreneur, you can market research and decide on a think it's really great for kids my really do anything you set product they want to sell. The age to get involved in Entrepre- your mind to. Also, side note I first quarter ends with their busi- neurship because it opens so many career paths. My group thoroughly enjoyed learning ness proposal and hopefully ap- about stocks and I plan on in- proval of their business name sold LED phone chargers that light up in the dark. Our start- vesting soon! and product. The second quar- Samantha Leweter ing investment to collect all of ter the business team will write their business plan with a focus the materials was $120 and our Market day was the highlight of total sale was $220, we split it on target markets, business my year! My business partners with 4 of our group members goals/objectives, their strengths/ and I made quite an investment including myself. We each end- weaknesses/opportunities/ on these beautiful Peruvian ed up with $55 in our pockets handmade bracelets. It was a threats (SWOT), organization and if that doesn't convince you and finally their finance sheet. great experience because I to think about a career in Entre- learned that anyone can become On the 2nd of May Market Day preneurship, I don't know what an entrepreneur if they really was held. There was almost will. wanted too! I also learned that $3000 in gross sales from the 31 -Christopher Rawlins you have to have an open mind student business and the average Market day was honestly the best about people’s opinions on your Return on Investment (ROI) day of the semester. I enjoyed product. I definitely learned a was 50%. This is a real business being able to pick our own lot on market day and I would venture so there were student group and go with our own ide- do it again in a heartbeat! business that also had losses ra- as. I liked that we had a lot of Julian Mendoza

Shailin Vojtek, Vanyssa Haug, and JC Paz busy selling their product!

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 33 Business Department (continued……)

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

Like DECA and Junior Achievement FBLA is a national organization dedicated to teaching students about busi- Pictured from left to ness skill and providing practical application of their new- right: ly learned skills. In November of 2014 10 FBLA mem- Grant Harrison, Dante Romano, Brian Kim, bers attended the Fall Leadership Conference in Tucson. Jymil Toney They spent the day interacting with students across Arizo- na and local business leaders. In February in FBLA’s regional Competition and wining two awards.

What I Learned From Market Day By Abraham Bejerano

Prior to the beginning of the school year, I opted for the course “Entrepreneurship.” This was not only because business ownership runs in my family (my grandpa, my dad, perhaps myself) but because I wanted to learn how businesses worked. In short, I got what I came for. The entire semester, I took notes and studied hard unaware that this was all in preparation of not only finals, but an event at school known as market day. When the class was told to partner up, we all did. We then spent a significant portion of the semester (I’d say around 75%-80%) preparing to re-sell cheap goods for huge mark-ups. Surprisingly enough, it worked like a charm. During this time period of preparing and then selling, I learned a few valuable lessons. 1: People will buy anything if it’s advertised cor- rectly, no matter how useless or cheap the product is. Convince them Shion Ienaga, Abraham Bejerano, Ashley they need it and they will buy it. 2: It’s a lot of hard work. It takes time Ronquillo, and Riley Lastovica begin the setup and devotion to run a small business. Having to deal with all kinds of cus- for Market Day tomers, rude or not, really gives you a sense of the magnitude of how much businesses have to appeal to their markets. 3: It can also be a lot of fun. Talking to customers, building the booth, and devising your plan to sell allegedly genuine products for ridiculous prices can be a lot of work, but it’s all worth it in the end when you can find the humor in the whole thing. In the end, I think the experience was worth the countless hours of stressing out over papers that you didn’t do until the night before they were due. It gave me incredible insight on how small businesses operate and all of the work that gets put into making money for only a couple of hours.

Page 34 Desert Vista Storm Report Site Base Council

The Site Base Council is an elected council that meets at 7:00 pm on the second Monday of each month in the Administrative Conference Room. The Council works closely with the school adminis- trators providing guidance and input on issues vital to the success of the school. We asses the needs of the school and community, determine the most pressing needs, and set priorities for action. While voting membership is by appointment only, attendance is open to all.

Why Business Classes are Important By Laina Goldwin

I have been a student at Desert Vista for the last 4 consecutive years of my life. Some information has gone through one ear, and out the other. In that duration I have taken three business classes. Sophomore year I took business law with Mr.O’Keefe. As a senior, I am currently taking Advanced Business Marketing and Financial Planning. These classes have proven to be of extreme value to me in the real world. As a legal adult, there are many businesses that have taken more of a recent interest in me and taking me in as a potential customer, especially credit card companies. Business classes really have taught me just how insidious certain companies and contracts can be. The importance of payments, business partner- ships, and maintaining control over level of debt is absolutely imperative. Regardless of the career pathway an individual follows you, businesses and their tactics will follow. It is important to know how to remain financially stable and secure. The lessons I have learned in my business classes have enabled me with transfer- rable skills and knowledge that is applicable to the real world. For that, I will always be grateful.

Laina Goldwin

Page 35 Desert Vista Storm Report Thunder Speech, Theatre and Debate Company

If you are interested in joining the Desert Vista Speech and Debate Team you need to stop by Desert Vista to pick up registration to be cleared for practice. All returning members and incoming students must be cleared by our activities office. See Ms. Bethea for any questions.

Senior Photos

Lou Coopey Photography is the official yearbook photographer for the 2015-2016 school year. The studio location is 202 North Lindsay Road in Mesa (one block north of Main Street). Information is sent directly to Senior students/families. You will receive an appointment time and details to confirm your appointment. If you do not receive mailings from company, be sure to call and set up an appointment. The hours for this studio will be Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 to 7:00 p.m., or by appointment. Hours are subject to change. Please call the studio at 480-830-5667 to make a new appointment or if you have any questions. There is no charge for the yearbook portrait. Photographs for the yearbook will not be accepted from other photographers.

Grad Night 2016

Planning will be getting under quickly for Grad Night 2016.

The purpose of Grad Night is to have a well-planned event for the graduating seniors to attend after commencement.

To provide this safe and enjoyable experience we need help from interested parents. If you are interested in getting involved with this committee please email Thunder Board at [email protected]

Please watch for information regarding volunteer opportunities in the Septem- ber/October 2015 issue of the Storm Report.

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 36 Desert Vista is Turning 20!

Save the Date Friday, October 30, 2015. More information to follow in the August/September 2015 Newsletter

Volume 21, Issue 5 Page 37