News from Cowboy Country 

 

2016-2017 Issue 1

LaBelle High School Home of the Cowboys & Cowgirls

The 2016-2017 School Year is underway!

Welcome to a new and exciting school year at LaBelle High School! We hope you

had a fun-filled and well-rested summer. Forging a strong relationship between

school and home is beneficial to student performance and academic growth. With

this at the forefront, the LHS administration, faculty, and staff are working

diligently to organize events, clubs, rigorous lesson plans, and programs. LaBelle

High School desires that all students experience academic achievement and

become well-rounded individuals that will give back to society.

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Exciting News from the LHS Business Department

During the 2015-16 school year, the Business Department at LaBelle High School had 171 Microsoft Office Specialist certification tests passed. These are challenging tests that give the students an edge over the average student that takes computer application classes. Last year, 46 LaBelle High School students passed three of the six tests offered in Microsoft Office. In addition, we had 7 students who passed as a Microsoft Office Master. These students had to pass an additional MS-Word Expert or MS-Excel Expert as well as the

regular certification. The following students from LaBelle High School have earned their Microsoft Office Specialist or Microsoft Office Master certifications.

Congratulations students and the LHS Business Department.

2016 Graduates Marisol Acevedo – Masters Esmeralda Alaniz Jose Beltran Lilianna Carranza Diana Escobedo Brandon Gomez Diana Jimenez Jailene Mondragon Adrian Rivera Luis Rojas Ernan Zuniga Sadie Zuniga Destiny Smith

Class of 2017 Odalys Martinez-Villa- Masters Emily Schwarz- Masters Angelica Benavidez Eduardo Cruz Amber Farabee Naesa Guajardo Karly Harn Brendon Herrera Wilmer Ixmay Angelica Jimenez Erick Lopez Charlie Lynn Meghan Martin Anamaria Mata Anabel Navarro Raul Pardo Joel Perez Jaime Raya Deedra Shackford Alexis Troia Jacqueline Wilkins

Class of 2018 Alberto Cabana - Masters Isaiah Devisme- Masters Tifton Holt- Masters Lazaro Sandoval - Masters Ricardo Balderas Mark Banky Kymberlee Chance Dustin Cooper Ruby Figueroa Jeff Granims Viviana Guerrero, Viviana Jose Hernandez-Trejo Angela Leos Bryan Light Elly Long Kayla Manso Paul Navarrete Jocelin Nunez Jose Perez-Gonzalez Adrian Raya Neydel Rego Gerardo Rivas-Leal Michael Rothenhoefer Austin Stem Kacie Thomas

Class of 2019 Alina Boyett Ariel Brunetto Kaitlyn Byrd Imelda Casiano Justin Curtis Britny Davis Tylor Gallegos Emily Grant Reanna Rivas Andy Rosado Javier Velasquez Arnulfo Villicana

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☺ LHS MATH TEAM “INTEGRATES” MORE FUN INTO SCHOOL ☺ The LHS Math Team (Mu Alpha Theta) meets Wednesdays from 2:45-3:45 in the Den of Infinity. Students compete individually and as teams in one of six divisions: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Statistics, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus. Competition season is December through March and then “Math with Mickey” in May. Stop by to see Mrs. Bridwell in The Den of Infinity for more details or email her at bridwellj@hendry-schools.net.

The LHS Math Team & Chaperones at Math with Mickey 2016

 NEED HELP IN MATH? LHS Math Tutors Have a Solution for You!

If you’re struggling in math, still need to pass the Algebra 1 EOC exam, want to prepare for the SAT or ACT, or just want to stay ahead in your math class, stop in for free after school tutoring in the Den of Infinity. Tutoring is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45-3:45. Tutors are available to help with every math from Algebra 1 to AP Statistics and AP Calculus. Appointments are not necessary. Stop by the Den of Infinity or email Mrs. Bridwell at bridwellj@hendry-schools.net for more information. ☺

 

 

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October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

LaBelle High School will be sponsoring a one lap walk around the track in honor of this cause on Friday, October 14th at 6:30 PM, prior to the home game against Lake Placid. Everyone is welcome to join us! T-Shirts are being sold in advance for $15.00. The cost of the t-shirt will include your admission to the football game. Help us support National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. You may contact Ms. Ross at (863) 674 - 4102 ext 241 or rossa@hendry-schools.net if you would like to purchase a t-Shirt.

 Key Club

 Key Club meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month in the band room immediately after school. Our first fundraiser was selling hotdogs during homecoming. On October 22nd, some members will participate in a Coastal Clean Up at Lovers Key. In early November, we will help at the Kiwanis Kid’s Day at Barron Park. During Thanksgiving, we will start our annual Christmas tree sale at the Kiwanis of LaBelle. Please support your Key Club!

FCA Fellowship of Christian Athletes

  FCA holds our weekly meeting in Mrs. Lofton’s classroom during Power Hour A. Each week there is a student led message, prayer time and planning for our upcoming events. We have had two successful Fifth Quarters in September. Each time we have served pizza and soft drinks, shared some inspiring music and a message, and finished with exciting dodgeball. We average about 125 students. Our final Fifth Quarter will be October 14th. In addition to Fifth Quarter, we have planned “See You at the Pole” on Wednesday, September 28th. This will include prayer time and music. FCA will also hold a “Fields of Faith” event at the football field on Thursday, October 13th at 6:00pm. Hope to see you there!

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A word from Destination Graduation

The Destination Graduation Program starts its 5th year at LaBelle High School. LaBelle High School had one of the highest graduation rates in the Southwest Florida Destination Graduation Program in 2016. We have started this year with a BANG! Destination Graduation has 10 new participants for the 2016/2017 school year. Destination Graduation will continue taking applications for future slots. This year starts out with Work Readiness Workshops the 3rd Wednesday of each month, immediately after school in the Career Resource Room. All LaBelle High students are welcome. As always, thanks to the LaBelle High School staff for all that they do. For more information, please contact Ms. Flori Mingo at mingof@hendry-schools.net

Ask yourself the following:

● Are you interested in going to college? ● Would you be the first in your family to

graduate from college? ● Do you need help with your class work? ● Do you want to meet new friends?

If you said yes to any of these questions you may be eligible to join the CROP program. For more information, please contact coordinators: Ms. Ross or Ms. Mendoza

College Reach Out Program is a State of Florida grant-funded program designed to prepare middle and high school students to successfully pursue and complete a post-secondary education. The program targets future first-generation college students currently in grades 6 through 12. The program also motivates students to develop basic learning skills, strengthen parent and student understanding of the benefits of postsecondary education, and foster personal and career development through supplemental instruction.

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National Honor Society News National Honor Society is getting ready for another busy year. Members are already planning fundraisers and service projects in the community. One of the first major events of the 2016-17 year is the annual celebration service for veterans. This year’s event will be the morning of Thursday, November 10th in the auditorium. The service will include speakers, musical performances, and other ways we will honor these brave men and women for their service to our nation. All veterans and family members are welcome to attend. Check out some of our other important dates on the calendar.

The four pillars of National Honor Society are scholarship, leadership, character, and service. For students looking to get involved with NHS, remember that invitations will go out to all sophomores and juniors with an

unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher. These invitations are delivered to students after the end of the first semester in January. In order to be accepted, students must be able to demonstrate their commitment to all four pillars through their volunteer work, participation in honors level courses, leadership roles in the community, and good character. For further information, please contact the NHS advisors, Ms. Jessica Hendricks-Pickles or Ms. Jennifer Randolph. As always, we thank the school staff, parents, and community members for their support and look forward to a great year.

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All About Allied Health

 The Allied Health Academy (AHA) is a great opportunity for LHS students to get hands-on experience

in the medical field. There is a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) test given in December to students. If passed, students will be qualified to work in a Dr's office or clinic. The AHA

holds fundraisers throughout the year that will donate to special causes like PPEC, Children’s Therapy and more. During the month of September, students in the AHA have clinicals on

Tuesdays and Thursdays in LaBelle.  

  2016-2017 Allied Health Academy

Lauren Adams, Nicolle Armijo-Lainez, David Deleon, Isaiah Devisme, Vanessa Fernandez-Gamez, Eric Geronimo, Cinthia Gomez, Abigail Gonzalez, April Grifaldo, Laura Hernandez, Tifton Holt, Jennifer

Ixmay, Joselin Mancilla, Stephany Menguela, Mckenzie Miller, Brittany Perez, Araseli Ramirez-Reyna, Danielle Rennolds, Natalie Rocha, Julio Sanchez, Abbigail Sigala, Kylie Soliz, Jose Vazquez

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LHS College and Career Expo

On Monday, September 19th, Labelle High School hosted its annual college and career expo. LHS coordinated with The Florida Tour who is in partnership with the Florida Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (FACRAO). FACRAO is responsible for planning Fall and Spring College Fairs throughout the state of Florida. Over forty-eight colleges and careers were present. Students were able to meet with representatives of their choice, ask questions, and gather information. In addition to a

myriad of colleges, students were afforded access to local business representatives such as Walmart, Suncoast Federal Credit Union, the local police department, etc… Labelle High School guidance department would like to thank all who took time away from their jobs to be present at the expo and be available to meet our students. Guidance would also like to thank Charlie Haas and the custodial staff, as well as Mr. Jeff Burton and his students for preparing the gym. Finally, Guidance would like to recognize and thank Ms. Diane Johnson for all of her hard work behind the scenes coordinating with schools and businesses in order to make this event a success.  

 

 

\FAFSA Opens October 1 st! To apply for financial aid — including federal and state student grants, work-study, and loans — you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). When completing your FAFSA, you and your family will be able to use your 2015 completed tax returns. You can transfer your income data directly from the IRS website to your FAFSA, making it easier to accurately complete the FAFSA. Be sure to complete your FAFSA soon after it becomes available on Oct. 1st. Filling out your FAFSA as early as possible can help you get a jump on other financial aid applications (state or institutional aid) that may have early deadlines. It also will give you more information earlier about the financial aid you qualify for and will help you make an informed decision about which college is the best financial fit for you. Visit https://fafsa.ed.gov/ to complete the 2017-2018 FAFSA! 

 

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Progress Reports/Report Card Dates September 9, 2016 - Progress Reports October 18, 2016 - Report Cards November 15, 2016 - Progress Reports January 12, 2017 - Report Cards . February 9, 2017 - Progress Reports March 28, 2017 - Report Cards April 25, 2017 - Progress Reports Final Report Cards (will be mailed home)

  

PINNACLE INTERNET VIEWER IS AVAILABLE! The ability to monitor your child's grades, attendance and any assignment information can now be securely viewed from your Internet Browser at home. We are providing this access through our Pinnacle Internet Viewer (PIV) feature. This secured access requires an Internet connection and a confidential username and password issued to the parent/guardian by the school. Stop by the Guidance office to pick up your username and password. Students also have access to their own personalized Pinnacle site, which has a separate username and password. Students can stop by the Guidance office or the library to retrieve login information.

  

 

OUT OF FIELD DETERMINATION Hendry County Public Schools is committed to providing information to you regarding your child’s teacher and paraprofessional qualifications in a timely manner upon request. You have the right to request the following information: ∙ Whether the teacher has met state licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides

instruction. ∙ Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualifications of

licensing criteria have been waived. ∙ The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and

the field of discipline of the certification or degree. ∙ Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals, and, if so, their qualifications. Please be assured that the Hendry County Public School Board is dedicated to providing the students of our County with a quality education. The information regarding the qualifications of your child’s teacher and/or the classroom paraprofessional may be obtained from your child’s school. Please contact David Kelley at 674-4120 or kelleyd@hendry-schools.net if you have any questions about teacher or paraprofessional qualifications. The following LHS teachers are teaching courses for which they are out of field. These teachers are working toward certification in the area (s) listed below: ESOL: Sara Childers, Diane Onorato, Joseph Kaye, Matt Miller, Shelby Whidden, and Bobby Billings. The following are working toward additional certification in Reading: Eusyher Mendoza, Social Science: Joey Valero, Kelle Collins, English: Matt Cherry, Math: Jimmy Norman. 

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Do you need help filling out the FAFSA? 

 The Guidance Department will be hosting a FAFSA Help Night on October 4th from 5:30 - 7:30 pm in the LHS cafeteria. Pertinent information will be shared regarding FAFSA and assistance will be available to help fill out the FAFSA.

  

FREE Money $$$  

Seniors, scholarship opportunities are posted outside of the Guidance office and will be posted on the LHS Guidance website! Stop by Guidance if you have any questions!

Tips:

● Applying for legitimate scholarships does not cost money! ● Don’t miss deadlines. Use a calendar and checklist to get organized. ● Use a free scholarship matching service like Fastweb.com. The Fastweb database is

updated daily, and the site will email you notifications of new scholarships that match your personal background profile.

● Read and follow the instructions carefully     

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Senior Calendar 2016-2017

 

Date

September 9th

September 10th

September 12-23rd

September 14th

September 14th

September 19th

September 22nd

September 26th-October 1st

October 1st

October 1st

October 1st

October 4th

October 12th

October 20th

October 21st

October 22nd

October 27th

October 28th

November 5th

November 11th

November 21-25th

November tba December 3rd

December 10th

December 14th

December 22nd

December 22nd

December 23rd

Activity Progress Reports- Are you on track for graduation? ACT Testing (Saturday- 7 am; LHS location closed) Testing Retakes (Check posted lists!) Early Release Senior Yearbook Picture Retakes (after school) College & Career Expo @ LHS gym FAFSA Prep Session during Power Hour A LHS Homecoming Week Homecoming Dance FAFSA & Bright Futures Application Open! SAT Testing (Saturday @ LHS, 7 am) FAFSA Info. & Lab Night (5:30 - 7:30 pm) Report Cards- are you on track? Class Ring Meeting during Power Hour 1st Grad Bash Payment of $50 is due! (1 of 3) ACT Testing (Saturday @ LHS, 7am) Class Ring Orders during lunch Cap & Gown Orders & Payment Due SAT Testing (Saturday @ LHS, 7 am) No School (Veterans Day) Thanksgiving Break Bright Futures & FL State Scholarship Info. Session SAT Testing (Saturday @ LHS, 7 am) ACT Testing (Saturday @ LHS, 7 am) Early Release 2nd Grad Bash Payment of $50 is due! (2 of 3) End of 1st semester: CHECK YOUR ACADEMIC HISTORY! Winter Break begins!

  

     

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Helpful Links & Tools you can use:

● Bright Future: Search colleges & careers, make a plan, learn about financial

aid https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ ● Khan Academy: Free math, science, social studies, SAT Test prep

https://www.khanacademy.org/ ● Completing the FAFSA: www.fafsa.gov ● Financial Aid Toolkit: http://financialaidtoolkit.ed.gov/tk/ ● 2017-2018 FAFSA Resources:

○ https://financialaidtoolkit.ed.gov/resources/federal-student-aid- resources-for-fafsa.pdf

● Do You Need Money for College?: ○ https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2016-17-do-you-

need-money.pdf ● Creating and Using Your FSA ID:

○ https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa/filling-out/fsaid ● Florida Bright Futures: http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ (Seniors

should apply) ● Coming soon: Family Connection by Naviance

○ Comprehensive K-12 college and career readiness solution that helps districts and schools align student strengths and interests to postsecondary goals, improving student outcomes and connecting learning to life. Stay tuned for more information.

Stay up-to-date with what’s happening at LaBelle High School

VISIT: http://www.hendry-schools.org/domain/8  

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Cowboy & Cowgirl Sports Round Up

● The Varsity Cowboy Football Team lost this past Saturday afternoon to district opponent Bishop Verot 28-24 after the Friday night game was postponed due to lightning. More about the game at. The Cowboys are now 1-3 (0-2) heading into this Friday night’s Homecoming game versus district opponent Gateway Charter (1-3, 0-1).

● The Cowgirl Volleyball Team is 12-6 (4-2) after losing to district opponent Community School of Naples on the road last Tuesday and beating district opponent Oasis at home this past Thursday. The Cowgirls then went 3-1 in tournament play over the weekend at Riverdale, winning against Charlotte, DeSoto and Canterbury and losing to Riverdale. The Cowgirls meet up with district opponents Gateway Charter and Bishop Verot this week. Good luck Cowgirls!

● The Cowboy & Cowgirl Cross Country Teams competed in the North Port Invitational this past

Saturday. Cowboy Yoan Prado finished 2nd (16:11.40), which is the best time for any LaBelle runner since Caleb Baker (15:57) in 2010! LaBelle Cowgirls finished 3rd as an overall team in the regular division and Esmeralda Rodriguez ran a personal best.

This Week (9/26 - 10/1)

● The Cowgirl Volleyball Team travels to district opponent Gateway Charter on Tuesday, 9/27/16, for JV at 6:00 P.M. and Varsity at 7:00 P.M. The Cowgirls then host district opponent Bishop Verot on Thursday, 9/29/16, with JV at 6:00 P.M. and Varsity at 7:00 P.M.

● The Varsity Cowboy Football Team (1-3, 0-2) hosts Gateway Charter on Friday, 9/30/16, for

Homecoming beginning at 7:30 P.M.

Tickets for Cowboy & Cowgirl Athletics can now be purchased in advance by visiting http://www.eventbrite.com/o/labelle-high-school-10884097066

Go Cowboys and Cowgirls!     

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LaBelle High School 4050 Cowboy Way, LaBelle, FL 33935(863) 674- 4120 (863) 674-4571 (Fax) (863) 674-4548 (Guidance Fax)

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID

LABELLE, FL 33935 PERMIT NO. 57

    

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