1. No category

GMG Wolverines
A Change to the School Start Date?
Superintendent, Ben Petty
Iowa Code states that school is to start “no sooner than a day during the
calendar week in which the first day of September falls”. However, there has
been a waiver process to request an earlier start date, and in any given year,
about 98% of Iowa school districts (including GMG) apply for the earlier start
date (for example, GMG started on August 18 in the current school year). One
reason most schools choose to start earlier than the week including September
1 is to more closely align calendars to community colleges (many high school
students take dual credit courses, and as an example, Marshalltown Community
College will start their fall classes next year on August 24, 2015). Another
reason is that the state’s fall sports practice start date is in early August
(Monday, August 10 for the 2015-2016 school year), and starting classes the
week including September 1 would mean students are back for three full weeks
of practice before they start back to classes. The later start date also means
school is likely to extend into the first two weeks of June, which may have
ramifications affecting students or staff planning to take summer classes and
the summer sports schedules.
GMG Community
School District
January 2015
GMG’s
Mission
The GMG Community
School District will
develop high achieving
learners who demonstrate
responsibility, citizenship,
and capacity for change so
they will make a
commitment and positive
contribution to a global
society.
Inside this issue:
Health News
Elementary News
2-3
Elementary Principal
3-4
Secondary News
On December 12, all schools were sent a letter from the Department of
Education stating that waivers will no longer be granted unless schools can
demonstrate a “significant negative educational impact” from having a start
date the week of September 1. While the state now grants flexibility in 1080
hours of school (instead of a set number of days), from an academic
perspective, I would find it difficult to justify making a significant reduction in
our instructional time (if we have a later start date) just so school doesn’t go
into June. While I believe school start dates should be a local control issue,
determined by the community and school, that may no longer be an
option. Over the next several months, our administration and board will
discuss whether or not we wish to still apply for an early start waiver, or just
establish a calendar with a start date during the week of September 1. Please
feel free to contact me if you have any questions on this issue, or would like to
share your thoughts on the school calendar.
January Dates To Remember
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January 1-4 - NO SCHOOL, Christmas Vacation Continues
January 5 - Classes Resume
January 9 - NO SCHOOL, District In-service
January 12 - January 23 - Iowa Assessments for Grades 3-6
January 13-27 - FAST Assessments for Grades K-3
2
5
Secondary Principal
6-7
Secondary Counselor
8-14
GMG Activity Calendar
GMG Breakfast/Lunch
Menu
W
GMG Wolverines
Page 2
What Does the FLU Mean to You?
Health News
It's every health care provider’s worst conversation....
Submitted by Tracy Andersen RN
Random Guy: Ugh, I have the flu again.
Healthcare provider: Really, again? What's going on?
Random Guy: Yes. I even got that stupid flu shot again
this year and it made me sick. That was back in October and now I have been puking and having loose stools all day. So
much for the flu shot.
Healthcare provider: (banging her head on the wall, rolling her eyes and sighing loudly) Sir, the flu vaccination that
you receive in the fall is for influenza. That is a respiratory virus not the stomach flu. The flu shot is not intended for
gastrointestinal viruses or “stomach flu”. When you get your flu vaccination, you are protecting yourself from the
influenza respiratory virus. Also, the flu vaccination does not make you sick. It is NOT a live virus and is actually
derived from a DNA strand of a similar virus that your body will be able to recognize and build antibodies against. It
could
remain true that you may have gotten sick or had an illness already brewing in your immune system when or before you
received the vaccine, but it was not the vaccine that caused your illness. Getting a flu shot does not always mean that you
will NOT get influenza. It has been proven, though, to lessen the length and symptoms of influenza, which again is NOT
the stomach flu.
Random Guy: Okay, so I will be sure not to get that stomach flu vaccine again next year. You know what? My wife
had that influenza stuff real bad last week. She doesn't believe in vaccinations. But I only had the sniffles and a little
sore throat. Sure wish they would vaccinate against that stuff!
Healthcare provider: (just starts to cry)
Influenza season is among us! If you or your children are having any signs or symptoms of the flu please, STAY
HOME!!! Please make sure that you are getting plenty of rest and fluids. Be sure that you are encouraging your children
to use good proper hand hygiene and covering coughs!! Influenza is a virus so antibiotics will not help with it. There are
some medications that can help with symptom control which can be recommended to you by your healthcare provider.
Symptoms include:
Fever
Cough
Runny/Stuffy nose
Muscle and body aches
Fatigue
Hope you all have a HEALTHY FLU FREE start to your 2015!
GMG Elementary News
Kindergarten News
By Mrs. Henze
It has been a busy fall in kindergarten. We have learned about apples, pumpkins, fall, fire safety,
Thanksgiving, and using maps and globes. Next, we will be learning about winter and what animals do
during the winter.
The kindergartners have also been working hard on learning to read. We have learned all the letters and the
sounds that they make. We are working hard to learn our sight words and are learning to stretch out the words we don’t
know. They have become great writers and do a great job of creating a pictures and writing words that go with their
stories.
In math we have worked on counting, numbers, shapes, making patterns, covering designs with pattern blocks,
and using geo boards.
We have been using the iPads to reinforce the letter, sight word and numbers skills we have learned. We have
also been using the iPad to write stories. This is something that kindergartners really look forward to.
GMG Wolverines
Page 3
W
Vaughn Wins Vikings Punt, Pass and Kick Championship
By Margaret Thomsen
Emily Vaughn of Garwin brought home first place in the ten and
eleven year old NFL Punt, Pass and Kick Championship. She competed in
Minneapolis at the Viking’s training facility on November 29. Emily was
announced the winner during the during the Minnesota Vikings versus
Carolina Panthers football game on November 30.
Emily had a total score of 207 feet 8 inches to put her in first place
for the Vikings Championship. She is the daughter of Scott and Sherry
Vaughn of Garwin and the granddaughter of Jeanette Awes and Bruce
Schnelle of Marshalltown. Great-grandma Eunice Pieper lives in
Gladbrook.
The road to the championship began in September at the GMG
Elementary School area competition. Emily advanced to the Sectionals in
Decorah in October. She was one of the top four finishers of all sectional
competitions for North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. She
was one of forty contestants advancing to the Team Championships.
The top four scorers from all of the NFL Team Championships
will advance to an NFL Playoff game in January.
GMG Families,
I hope everyone had a wonderful time over the holiday
break. The staff and I are looking forward to building on the
successes your students experienced during the first part of
the school year.
Principal’s Corner
Mr. Chris Frimml
As we start the New Year, GMG Elementary needs your assistance in a few safety matters. The first one is to make
student drop off run as smoothly as possible. In the morning (between 8:00-8:25), please use the North door entrance to
drop off your student. We have reserved the front of the building for our busses.
The second item I would like you to help with is in regards to changes in your student’s normal routine. Please make
sure you contact the school as early as possible so we can get the message to the student.
We also ask that you call and send a note if your child is going to be picked up by someone other than the parent/
guardian. Additionally, please make sure the office has your current phone number and address. Thank you for assisting
us in keeping your children safe.
As always, if you have questions regarding your child’s education I would encourage you to contact your child’s teacher.
I am also available to assist you with concerns. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or
641.474.2251.
Happy New Year,
Chris Frimml
Holiday Programs
I would like to congratulate the elementary students, Mrs. Phomvisay, and Mrs. Mullikin on great performances. The
music programs were a huge hit, as the students sang to a full house both nights. The fifth and sixth grade bands also
sounded great.
Iowa Assessment Testing
Students in grades 3-6 will be taking Iowa Assessment tests from January 12 thru January 23. Teachers will
send memos out to parents, as we get closer to testing time. A few things parents can do to ensure students
are prepared include: ample rest, a healthy breakfast, and scheduling appointments before or after the testing
window. If you have questions about the tests or how to help your students prepare, please contact your
child’s teacher.
Continued on page 4
W
GMG Wolverines
Page 4
GMG PRIDE
PRIDE is the acronym our teachers use when discussing expectations with students. Please discuss with your children
the ways they have displayed GMG PRIDE throughout the day.
P ut Safety First
R espect and Responsibility
I nclude Everyone
D o Your Best
E veryone Cooperates
OUTDOOR RECESS
PURPOSE: The GMG Elementary Playground will be a safe and clean place where students will be respectful while
exercising or socializing.
EXPECTATIONS:
Keep hands and feet to self.
Take care of the equipment.
Ask permission to leave the recess area.
Stay within the playground boundaries.
Line up immediately when the bell rings.
PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES
Balls are not to be thrown against the building.
Football is touch, not tackle.
Snowballs / woodchips are not to be thrown at all.
Play on the equipment in a safe manner.
INDOOR RECESS
PURPOSE: To provide safe indoor activities for socialization.
EXPECTATIONS:
Use conversational voices.
Walk and line up when the bell rings.
Use materials appropriately and put them away when finished.
Ask permission to leave the recess area
Severe Weather and School Closings
In case of severe weather and situations that demand school be closed, the official announcement
will be made over radio stations KFJB (AM 1230), KDAO (AM 1190), WHO (AM 1040), KXIA
(FM 101.1), KZAT (FM 95.5) and television stations KWWL (Channel 7) and KCCI (Channel
8). If rapid changes in the weather occur on days that students are already in school, we would
ask parents to tune into those stations. We will not offer Day Care when we dismiss early due
to ice/snow.
Upcoming Events
First day back from Winter Break
No School (District Professional Development Day)
Iowa Assessment Testing
FAST Assessments:
Kindergarten
First
Second
Third
January 5
January 9
January 12 – January 23
January 13
January 14
January 15
January 27
GMG Secondary News
Page 5
Junior High Reading
By Mrs. Cutler
Seventh grade readers had an opportunity to find out first-hand what it means to be a “scrooge.” They
read, “A Christmas Carol” written by Charles Dickens, and dramatized by Fred Gaines. Students
analyzed and determined the theme from each of the three spirits visiting Ebenezer, and then
collaborated to find the theme of the story. It was fun to hear the comments! They couldn't believe
anyone could be that mean!
Eighth grade readers left the fiction genres that they have been working on, and read a nonfiction biography excerpt
called, “Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad” by Ann Petry. Students analyzed the text and had to
draw evidence from the information. They discussed the enormous risks that were taken to help others, and hopefully
know when a risk is worth taking.
GMG Student Council Light Up the Holidays
By Mrs. Cutler
The holidays were once again being “lit up” by the GMG High School Student Council! They placed a
lighted wreath at the main entrance of the school to welcome the many community members and visitors
during the month of December. In addition, they were spreading good cheer with “The Candy Cane
Exchange.” For only $1.00, students and staff could purchase a candy cane with a message to a friend.
The handwritten messages were delivered on Tuesday, December 23rd.
GMG Psychology Students Visit State Mental Health Institute
By Mrs. Samek
I have four classes this second quarter of the school year: psychology, Human Behavior I, Human
Behavior II, and composition. The end of the semester seems to be approaching rapidly!
Psychology students have been studying various aspects of human behavior, including psychological disorders
and treatments. On December 12, the class toured the state Mental Health Institute in Independence, Iowa. It was an
eye-opening experience of what treatment is like today, as well as what used to constitute “treatment” for people
suffering from psychological disorders. A few of the young men managed to try out straitjackets!
Students in both Human Behavior I and II have been following current events and also studying terrorism.
Composition students have honed their writing skills in all areas, from research papers to literary analyses.
The following businesses, organizations, and individuals have contributed to the publication of the
2015 GMG Yearbook.
Please thank them and support them.
Blue Sponsors - $200
Garwin United Methodist Church
To Honor Organ Donors
Silver Sponsors - $100
Animal Clinic, The Vet
Bob's Farm Center
DeSelm’s Motor Company
Farmers Savings Bank
Lennox Industries
Parties to Go, DJ Service - Gary Nablo
Premier Office Equipment
Pronto Market
Quality Services Corp.
Wayne’s Photography
Page 6
January 2015
GMG’s Principal’s Report
Mark P. Polich
E-mail: [email protected]
www.garwin.k12.ia.us
“Knowledge is power, but enthusiasm pulls the switch.” Ivern Ball.
Improving Student Achievement
This year’s 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grade Iowa Assessments (old ITED) test scores
will be taken on February 20th. We expect our students to do very well on them. We do
have some concern about the few students who fall below the proficiency level set by the
state of Iowa in reading comprehension and math problem solving. Over this past year,
we have incorporated a reading assistance program for those young people who are not
proficient in reading comprehension. Our hope is that this program will help raise
scores and improve the reading for those struggling students. We feel the ability to read
and comprehend is the most important skill a young person needs to be successful in furthering his/her
education.
We believe that the school, staff, parents and students need to be held accountable for improving the
achievement levels of all students.. During the last few years we have been using graphic organizers, alouds
and our 1:1 computer initiative to assist our students in structuring their thoughts. The most important thing
you can do as a parent is read books, magazines, and newspapers with your children and check their
comprehension through discussion.
8th Grade Careers Class
Commencement
Exercises
2:00 PM
May 17, 2015
The eighth graders are beginning to plan their
future. GMG offers a exploratory careers class
during the second nine weeks of their eighth grade
year. Currently the eight graders, under the
guidance of Mrs. Strohbehn, are taking interest
inventories, planning budgets, investigating careers
and planning for their high school class schedules. Mr. Pierson has been in to visit
about classes they should take and post-secondary opportunities.
GMG Foundation
I Have a Plan Guide Ways
All GMG 9-12 grade students use the
state-run software program “I Have A
Plan Iowa” to consider their high school
and post-secondary options.
This
software leads the students through a
series of guides that assist students in the
process of being successful throughout
high school and beyond. This program starts for our students in
eighth grade and can continue well beyond their education here at
GMG. Ask your son/daughter to show you the program on their
laptop.
www.ihaveaplaniowa.gov
Join the GMG Foundation Club today.
Help our students continue their
education beyond high school.
.
Their
Education
Is Our Future
GMG’s Science Data
Below are graphs related to the science information supplied to the Iowa Department of Education. This information relates to GMG’s
data from the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and Iowa Test of Educational Development. Students are placed into three categories: low (040%), intermediate (41-89%), and high (90-99%) in relationship to their scores. Students are said to be proficient if they are in the intermediate or high category.
We have to remember that this is a norm referenced chart, which can be confusing. Norming means all scores are on a line from 1-99
with 50 being the middle. There will always be 40% of the scores located in the low section, 50% in the intermediate and 9% in the
high. If your son/daughter has a score of 60, then he/she has 59 people below him/her and only 39 above. Scoring 40 and above places
them in the proficient level.
The charts below show GMG’s relationship to the state and national norms. If you wish more information or have questions, please
call the school and ask for Mr. Pierson or Mr. Polich.
Graphed Science Information
The information in these graphs shows you the trend
of GMG’s science scores from the Iowa Assessment
tests. Our scores track favorably when compared to the
state and national averages.
We are very proud of the hard work your children have
shown. You can help by asking questions and reviewing
science assignments at home with your children.
As trend lines show in all our science graphs (4, 8 & 11
grades), students’ scores have from 2005 through 2014.
We are pleased with the 8th grade improvement from its
89%.
Our overall science scores are tremendous, maintaining an
85% proficiency average for the past four years. This is a
great tribute to GMG’s science curriculum and staff K-12
whose efforts continue to bring a great science education
to GMG students.
Grades
Page 8
The Counselor's Corner - Mr. Michael L. Pierson
REMINDER - ASVAB TESTING FOR SOPHOMORES - We will test the other half of the sophomores on Tuesday, January 20, 2015.
Filing the FAFSA - Beginning January 1, 2015, students and parents can begin filing the FAFSA for 2015-2016.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves as the application for federal and several state programs. Even if you are
not sure that you will need financial aid, file it anyway – it’s free. Just about every family is eligible for some form of financial aid – grants,
scholarships, work-study, or student loans.
Where to Get your FAFSA - The quickest way to file the FAFSA is online at www.fafsa.gov. The web-based form includes online assistance and
prompts to reduce applicant error. Processing is quicker if you electronically sign the FAFSA with your Federal Student Aid PIN. You can apply
for a PIN while completing the FAFSA or you can go to the Federal Student Aid PIN website at www.pion.ed.gov to apply in advance.
Paper forms for mailing can be obtained through 1-800-4-FEDAID (800-433-3243) or by visiting www.fafsa.gov/options.htm.
IRS DATA Retrieval Tool - If you and your parents have already filed federal tax returns, this tool allows you to pre-fill the
answers to some of the FAFSA questions by transferring the data directly from the IRS website. Even if you initially filed your
FAFSA based on estimated income data, you may be able to use the tool to make corrections. Not only can this save you time, it
reduces input errors.
FAFSA Deadlines - Your completed FAFSA should be submitted as soon after January 1 as possible to receive financial aid in the next academic
year.
July 1 is the application deadline for many grants and scholarships funded by the state of Iowa, but several have March 1 priority deadlines. A chart
of the application deadlines for all programs administered by the Iowa College Aid. In addition, most college and university financial aid offices
have priority deadlines as early as February or March. Some financial aid is limited and might not be available if you miss the priority deadlines.
FAFSA Filing Tips - Gather the following information for you and your parents:
Driver’s License Number
Social Security Number
Federal; Income Tax Returns, W-2 Forms, and other records of money earned. (NOTE: You may be able to transfer your federal tax return
information into your FAFSA using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool)
Records of Untaxed Income
Current Bank Statements
Current Business and Farm Records, as well as other Savings and Investments
Alien Registration Number (if not a U.S. citizen)
Enter your name as it appears on your Social Security Card.
If eligible, use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer data directly from the IRS website to your FAFSA.
Enter up to 10 colleges or universities that your are considering for enrollment. This ensures that your information is shared with campus officials
who will evaluate your eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
Sign the FAFSA using your Federal Student Aid PIN for fastest processing.
Print out the confirmation page after submitting, which displays the exact date and time the form was received.
Your Cost of Attendance (COA)
(minus) Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC)
= Your Financial Need
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR AWARDS FOR IOWANS - Beginning the 2015-2016 academic
year, the University of Northern Iowa Distinguished Scholar Award for Iowans will be a four-year award instead of two-year.
For students with a RAI* score of 330 or higher, the award is now worth $8,000. $2,000will be distributed each academic year
[previously, this was a $2,000 award for two years]
For students with an RAI score of 295 to 329, or those with and ACT score of 28 or higher but with an RAI score lower than 295, the
award is now worth $6,000. $1,500 will be distributed each academic year [previously, this was a $1,000 award for two years]
These GMG seniors have qualified for one of the UNI Distinguished Scholar Awards for Iowans: (1) Kenna Krier, (2) Gabriella “Ella”
Gruen, and (3) Jeff Hughes. Congratulations!
*RAI = Regents Admission Index
DID YOU KNOW? - Bachelor degree holders make 84% more in a lifetime than high school diploma holders. Data Source: Lumina Foundation
for Education. The current poverty level for a family of five is $26,170. The average high school graduate makes $39,937. Data Source: Lumina
Foundation for Education. By 2018, 63 % of all jobs will require further training and education beyond high school.
HIGHER EDUCATION PAYS
Unemployment rate in 2013
Median Weekly earnings in 2013
Doctoral degree = 2.2 %
$1,623
Professional degree = 2.3 %
$1,714
Master’s degree = 3.4 %
$1,329
Bachelor’s degree = 4.0 %
$1,108
Associate’s degree = 5.4 %
$ 777
Some college, no degree = 7.0 %
$ 727
High school diploma = 7.5 %
$ 651
Less than high school diploma = 11%
$ 472
SENIORS AND PARENTS - You really should be nearly done out filling out and submitting applications for admission. Please remember to let
me know you apply for admission so that I can send his or her official high school transcript to the college’s admissions office.
The Counselor's Corner Continued -
Page 9
Mr. Michael L. Pierson
Fastest Growing Careers:
Audiologists
Brick masons and block masons
Dental Hygienists
Diagnostic medical sonographers
Genetic counselors
Electricians
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary
Home health aides
Industrial-organizational psychologists
Informational security analysts
Insulation workers, mechanical
Interpreters and translators
Market research analysts and marketing
specialists
Medical secretaries
Meeting, convention and event planners
Nurse practitioners
Nursing instructors and teachers,
postsecondary
Occupational therapy aides
Occupational therapy assistants
Orthodontists and prosthetists
Personal care aides
Physical therapist aides
Physical therapist assistants
Physical therapists
Physician assistants
Segmental pavers
Skincare specialists
Stonemasons, and tile and marble setters
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder
counselors
Therapists
Visit www.bls.gov/ooh to review the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics or visit www.workiniowa-stem.jobs to
learn about growing opportunities in the state of Iowa.
DID YOU KNOW? - Most 4-year colleges want to see an ACT score by December of a student’s senior year in high school.
4-YEAR COLLEGE-BOUND SENIORS AND ACT TESTING - 4-year college-bound students should take the ACT for the first time in the
spring semester of their JUNIOR year – February, April, or June. This gives students a chance to retake early in their senior year – October or
December.
Most colleges want to see an ACT score for admissions purposes. The ACT score is often a determining factor for eligibility for
scholarships. In addition, students who improve their ACT score increase their chances of being offered a scholarship.
ACT or SAT: What are the differences? - While the ACT and SAT are both standardized college admissions tests accepted by most colleges and
universities, there are differences. Check to see if the colleges you are interested in attending prefer one test over the other. If either test is accepted,
keep in mind the following differences when determining which test is best suited to your skills and strengths.
The ACT tests students on subject matter covered in high school while the SAT is considered an aptitude test that measures reasoning, critical
thinking, and verbal abilities.
The ACT has four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The SAT has three sections: Critical Reasoning, Mathematics, and
Writing.
The SAT has a required writing section. The writing section is optional in the ACT.
While both the ACT and SAT primarily are multiple choice tests (except for the writing section), the SAT has a math section where no answer
choices are provided. Students must solve the problems and fill in the answers on a special grid.
The ACT is scored based on the number of correct answers; students are not penalized for guessing. The SAT penalizes students slightly for
wrong multiple-choice answers.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER FOR COLLEGE-BOUND SENIORS AND THEIR PARENTS
January 1, 2015 The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid – actually state aid, too) is available on the web at www.fafsa.gov for the
2015-2016 academic year. The Iowa Financial Aid Application is available at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov to apply for state financial aid.
March 1, 2015 Priority application deadline (FAFSA & Iowa Financial Aid Application) for the (1) All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship, (2) All
Iowa Opportunity Foster Care Grant, (3) Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship, and (4) Education and Training Voucher Grant.
May 1, 2015 Notify all colleges you have applied to, been admitted to, and/or paid a deposit to of your final decision. You will need to inform each
that you plan to attend in the fall or that you are declining their offer of admission. Do this in writing to each
May 10, 2015 Robert D. Blue Scholarship Application deadline at www.rdblue.org .
July 1, 2015 FAFSA deadline for Iowa Scholarships and grants. [Grants include the (1) Iowa Tuition Grant, (2) Iowa Vocational-Technical Tuition
Grant, (3) Kibbie Grant, and (4) Barber and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences Tuition Grant. Anticipated fall application deadline for the Iowa
National Guard Educational Assistance Grant.
HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS AND PARENTS: PLEASE READ THIS IF YOU NEED HELP FILLING OUT THE FREE APPLICATION
FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA) - Financial aid season is fast approaching for High School Seniors and Their Parents. The Iowa
College Access Network (ICAN) is prepared to help. For the first time ICAN has eight locations across the state ready to help High School Seniors
and Their Parents complete their FAFSA form for the 2014-2015 academic year. ICAN is beginning to schedule appointments today!
ICAN states that appointment times in January and February fill up quickly. High School Seniors and Their Parents who need help to
complete the FAFSA on time should call ICAN at (877) 272-4692 and schedule an appointment with an ICAN expert. Appointments typically take
between 30-45 minutes. ICAN will have extended hours at each Student Success Center to assist customers.
ICAN now has Student Success Centers in Ankeny, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Orange City, Ottumwa, Sioux City and
Waterloo, staffed with Student Success Advisors ready to help High School Seniors and Parent. To learn more about our individual location go to
http://www.icansucceed.org.
The 2014-2015 FAFSA will be available beginning January 1, 2014, and each High School Senior’s FAFSA needs to be completed
BEFORE his or her school's [refers to College or University the High School Senior plans to attend] financial aid priority deadline. Each school has
their own deadline. To help you find yours go to http://www.icansucceed.org.
ICAN’s first priority will be to help High School Seniors planning to attend a school with an early financial aid deadline, such as the
University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa. Both of these universities have an ASAP after January 1 deadline, meaning High School
Seniors planning to attend these institutions should use 2012 tax information and complete the FAFSA right away.
Page 10
The Counselor's Corner Continued -
Mr. Michael L. Pierson
NOTE: If you [High School Senior] plan to attend a school with a March 1 deadline or later, you and your parents typically will have
time to complete 2013 taxes BEFORE they complete the FAFSA.
In order to prepare, High School Seniors and Their Parents should go to http://www.icansucceed.org for a list of the documents and
information they need to complete the FAFSA form.
If you have questions, or to schedule an appointment, please call (877) 272-4692 today.
CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR STATE FINANCIAL AID - The Eligibility Wizard in the Iowa Financial Aid Application will allow you
to receive estimated information on your eligibility for state financial aid programs by answering less than 10 questions. Access the Iowa Financial
Aid Application online at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov.
Take Advantage of Higher Education Tax Benefits - Your family may be able to benefit from higher education tax credits and deductions
available to individuals and families who have paid eligible higher education-related expenses during the tax year. More information about these tax
benefits is available at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov or by accessing the IRS Publication 970 at www.irs.gov . Be sure to consult a professional tax
advisor if you have questions about your eligibility.
STUDENT LOAN INTEREST DEDUCTION: Eligible borrowers may deduct interest paid on student loans (up to a maximum of $2,500 each
year) to reduce the amount of taxable income.
AMERICAN OPPORTUNITY TAX CREDIT: Eligible taxpayers may claim a credit of up to $2,500 for each eligible student within his/her first
four (4) years college to reduce the amount of income tax owed, and forty (40) percent of the credit may be refundable for many
taxpayers.
LIFETIME LEARNING TAX CREDIT: Eligible taxpayers may claim a credit of up to $2,000 per tax return for all years of post-secondary
education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills to reduce the amount of income tax.
TUITION & FEES DEDUCTION: Eligible taxpayers may deduct up to $4,000 paid for tuition and fees each year for each eligible student.
WARNING! WARNING! Beware of scholarship search and financial aid service organizations that charge a fee for service. Much of the
information you may be seeking is available at no cost. Check with your high school counselor or search for free on the Iowa College
Access Network’s (ICAN) web site (www.icansucceed.org). The staff at ICAN can assist you through the financial aid process for free.
KEYS TO FINDING SCHOLARSHIPS:
WORK: Have your parents ask their employers if they offer any scholarships to children of their employers.
SCHOOL NETWORKS: Many high schools offer scholarship opportunities for their graduating students. Also check with area alumni
association of the college you will be attending to see if it offers scholarship.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS: Many community organizations sponsor local scholarships that are open to students who
live in the area.
RELIGIOUS ORGANZIATIONS: Find out if your place of worship offers any scholarship opportunities.
FIELD OF STUDY: The college(s) you are considering may offer scholarships specific to your intended major. Contact your
program department at your college or university.
KEYS TO GETTING SCHOLARSHIPS
Apply early (start looking in your junior year of high school)
Compile a personal inventory of your academic, extracurricular, and career plans.
Check with your high school guidance counselor about the availability of local scholarships for students graduating from your high school.
Use the Scholarship Finder at www.IHaveAPlanIowa.gov to find scholarships that match your skills and accomplishments.
Line up letters of recommendation from references who can characterize your abilities.
Check into scholarship opportunities through community foundations, civic or fraternal organizations, or through a corporation of business
with a presence in your community.
Follow application directions precisely; DO NOT MISS DEADLINES!
Do a thorough, thoughtful job on all required essays.
PARENTS – ENTER TO WIN A $1,500 SAVINGS PLAN DEPOSIT - Iowa Student Loan is offering parents a chance to win a $1,500 boost to
a College Savings Iowa® account with the Save Now, Save Later: College Savings Plan Parent Giveaway. Iowa parents and legal guardians of
students in grades 9 through 12 can register to win one of 20 deposits to an existing or new College Savings Iowa account. As part of the
registration process, parents complete a customized version of Student Loan Game PlanSM, learning valuable information to help their student
succeed. They are encouraged to share the information with their student and discuss college financial planning. Registration for the program is
open through Dec. 19. Winners will be announced in February 2015. No purchase is necessary to participate, but winners will need an existing or
new College Savings Iowa account before the deposit can be made.
For more information, to read the full rules and frequently asked questions, and to register, visit www.iowastudentloan.org/savenow . Updates about
the program and other financial tips and news can be found on Iowa Student Loan’s Facebook page.
ATTENTION SENIORS -UNI Scholarship Application Deadlines - UNI's general scholarship deadline is Thursday, January 15, 2015. If you
are interested in studying Business at UNI: UNI's College of Business Administration has extended its scholarship deadline from December 15,
2014 to January 1, 2015.
COLLEGE VISITS TO GMG - Tuesday, February 3 @ 8:30 am … Hawkeye Community College (Waterloo)
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNTIES - Stop by the guidance office for specific information on eligibility and how to apply for the scholarships
listed below. I regularly forward e-mails with information on scholarships to seniors. Please encourage your senior son or daughter to read e-mails
from the guidance counselor.
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Mr. Michael L. Pierson
Iowa State University College of Agriculture Scholarships...Apply electronically at www.ag.iastate.edu/scholarships/
freshman.html...Applications accepted October 15 through January 15
C.J. and Sophia Hach Scholarship...awarded to a GMG graduating senior from the Green Mountain portion of the district
who plans to go directly to Iowa State University in the fall immediately after high school graduation...Applicants must major
in an agriculture-related field...This is a 4-year scholarship of approximately $1,250 per year or approximately $5,000 over 4 years [In other
words, the amount of the scholarship may vary from year to year depending on the return from investments.]...Apply electronically at
www.ag.iastate.edu/scholarships/freshman.html...Applications accepted October 15 through January 15
Richard and Betty Hessenius Scholarship…One $1,500 award to a qualified student who plans to pursue a 4-year degree; preference will be
given to applicants who plan to pursue a career in education…Application and deadline to be announced at a later date
Horatio Alger Association Scholarships...Fifty @ $6,000 plus six for $7,000 plus two for $22,000 ... Must plan to pursue a bachelor's degree
(4-year college degree) ... View criteria and find application at www.horatioalger.org/scholarships/apply.cfm ... Deadline: See website
Iowa State University Academic Recognition Awards... Automatically awarded to all Iowa residents who have been offered admissions as
freshmen entering directly from high school and who rank in top 15 percent of their graduating class … Level I = $1,500 per year for 4 years;
Recipients must rank in top 10 percentiles of graduating class or have a class rank of # 1 or # 2 … Level II = $1,250 per year for 4 years;
Applicant must rank between top 11th through 15th percentile of graduating class … Apply for admission
Iowa State University President's Award for Competitive Excellence…Amount = $8,000 per year for 4 years … Automatically awarded to
all Iowa residents who have been offered admissions as freshmen entering directly from high school and who have successfully completed the
college preparatory curriculum outlined as follows ... Must have completed (1) Math through 1 year of Calculus (pre-calculus does not satisfy
this requirement) (2) 3 years of Science from among biology, chemistry, and physics (3) 4 years of a single foreign language (through level 4
in high school, ex. Spanish 4) … AND MUST (4) have a high school grade point average of 3.30 or higher and (5) An ACT score of at least
28 (Critical Reading plus Math)… Apply for admission
Iowa State University Cardinal Scholar Award…One time award of $1,000 … Automatically awarded to all Iowa residents who have been
offered admissions as freshmen entering directly from high school … Must have a minimum 3.70 final high school cumulative GPA … Must
have a minimum 29 ACT composite score … This award may be combined with the Academic Re cognition Awards or the President's Award
for Competitive Excellence
Christina Hixson Opportunity Awards to Iowa State University...February 1…Applicants must show that they have faced personal and/or
financial hardships
Multi-Cultural Vision Scholarships to Iowa State University...February 1…Applicants must be American Indian, Alaskan Native, African
American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, or Latino/a...Application Deadline: February 1
New Century FS Scholarship Program …Up to five $1,500 scholarships to full-time area students with an interest in pursuing a career in
agriculture or agri-business (Paid at the beginning of the fall semester)…Applicants must (1) be active or seeking membership in local
agriculture groups, including membership in his/her local FFA chapter or 4H; (2) be a dependent of a New Century FS customer, member, or
employee; (3) be a high school senior or already enrolled in a community college and must have maintained a satisfactory grade point of at
least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (official transcripts must be submitted)…Scholarship recipients must agree to attend a New Century FS Board Meeting
or company-sponsored event…Applications are available in the high school guidance office…Application Deadline: February 1, 2015
Iowa Financial Know-How Challenge Senior Scholarship Program...Twenty $1,500 scholarships…To qualify, seniors complete Student
Loan Game Plan and ROCI (Return On College Investment) Reality Check and earn top scores on an online…Registration is open September
2 through January 31…Register and learn more at www.IowaStudentLoan.org/EnterChallenge…Registered Iowa high schools that incorporate
the two online tutorials within their classrooms by Jan. 31 will be entered in a random drawing for 30 cash prizes worth $1,000 each… Senior
Scholarship Registration opens January 2015The Pearl Hull Falk Scholarship to the University of Iowa...$800 scholarships...Recipients
must attend the University of Iowa, be of the Protestant faith, and be a resident of the State of Iowa...The postmark application deadline is
May1, 2015
National Honor Society Scholarships…NHS will award more than $200,000 in scholarships ranging from $1,000 to
$13,000 each…Selection is based on outstanding performance in the four criteria for NHS membership: scholarship,
leadership, character, and service…Application Deadline: January 2015
Other University of Iowa Scholarships...See guidance counselor for details
Governor Terry E. Branstad’s State Fair Scholarships...Up to four scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000…
Recognizes outstanding high school seniors who have actively participated in the Iowa State Fair…Apply using the Iowa Financial Aid
Application at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov …March 1, 2015
Robert D. Blue Scholarship…Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000…Selection is based upon demonstration of literary and scholastic
ability and displaying qualities of truth, courage, fellowship, and moral force of character…Apply using the Iowa Financial Aid Application at
www.IowaCollegeAid.gov …May 10, 2015
Iowa Farm Bureau Federation Scholarships...Agriculture or agri-business majors...Contact your county Farm Bureau Office…March 1
Mediacom World Class Scholarship Program…Sixty $1,000 non-renewable scholarships from Mediacom Communications…Applicants
must live in a Mediacom service area…Applications available at www.mediacomworldclass.com or by e-mailing
[email protected] ...Application Deadline: February 16, 2015
The Strayer-Rairden Scholarship in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa…$1,000 award, renewable for up to three
successive years…Must declare physics or astronomy as major…Application information and form available at http://
www.physics.uiowa.edu/undergraduate-program/undergraduate-scholarships-and-awards/strayer-rairden-scholarship-physics … Application
Deadline: January 31, 2015
Hometown Foods Scholarships…Scholarships are open to all G-R and GMG seniors. To participate in the Hometown Foods Scholarship
program, a senior student must complete and turn in a small application and picture to their local Hometown Foods. Then HF customers vote
for the senior of their choosing with their grocery receipts…In the past HF has given out at least two (2) -$500 scholarships and possibly some
smaller ones…Winners of the $500 scholarships are then put in a drawing for another $1000.00 scholarship. Seniors interested in participating
in the Hometown Foods Scholarship program must complete and turn in a small application and picture to their local Hometown Foods…
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Mr. Michael L. Pierson
There is not a specific application deadline; I was told that the “sooner the better” is the best policy
20. Grand Lodge of Iowa, A.F. & A.M. “Masonic” Scholarships… Last year 60 scholarships of $2,000 each were
awarded…GMG has had several recipients…Applications are available in the guidance office or at
www.grandlodgeofiowa.com …Postmarked Application Deadline: February 2, 2015
21. Iowa Newspaper Foundation College Scholarships…The Iowa Newspaper Foundation (INF) has scholarships available
for students preparing for a newspaper career…In 2014, the INF awarded eleven (11) scholarships totaling $7,000…The
INF anticipates awarding at least as much in 2015…The application is entirely online and can be completed by visiting the scholarship
application link on the homepage - www.INAnews.com …The deadline for completing applications is February 13, 2015…Scholarship
information is available in the guidance office
22. United States JCI Senate Foundation Scholarship…$1,000 grants to eligible graduating high school seniors [number of grants awarded is at
the discretion of the United States JCI Senate Foundation…Applicants must plan to continue their education at accredited post-secondary
colleges, universities or vocational schools…Application Deadline: January 9, 2015
23. All Iowa Opportunity Scholarships…Available to assist Iowa Students who have minimum high school GPA’s of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale and
who begin enrollments at and eligible Iowa colleges or universities within two academic years of graduating from High School…The
maximum award amount for the 2014-2015 academic year is $7,853 at eligible Iowa 4-year colleges and universities…All Iowa Opportunity
Scholarships are renewable for a second year for students attending Iowa community colleges…Apply using the Iowa Financial Aid
Application at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov …Application deadline is March 1, 2015
24. Drake University Physics Prize...four-year, full-tuition scholarship to Drake University...Winner determined by results of an exam that will
be given at a time between Wednesday, January 28 and Friday, January 30, 2015...Students must register to take the exam by Monday, January
26, 2015...The registration page is: http://tinyurl.com/DrakePhysicsPrizeStudent2015
25. "America's Farmers Grow Ag Leaders" Scholarships Program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund...$1,500 collegescholarships
available...Learn more at GrowAgLeaders.com and apply at FFA.org/scholarships...Applications close February 1, 2015...Applicants must
obtain three farmer endorsements of the application and these endorsements must be complete by February 8, 2015
26. Tama County Farm Bureau Scholarships...Parents must be members of Farm Bureau in Tama County...Please contact the Tama County
Farm Bureau at 641-484-3361 to find out the number and amounts of these scholarships...Top two county winners are sent on to compete for
Iowa Farm Bureau Scholarships...Copies of the application can be obtained from (1) the high school guidance office, (2) the Tama County
Farm Bureau office, or (3) online under parent's membership at www.iowafarmbureau.com (Tama County Farm Bureau uses the Iowa Farm
Bureau Scholarship application to determine Tama County FB scholarship winners)...Application deadline: March 1, 2015
27. University of Northern Iowa College of Business Administration's UNI Business Freshman Scholarships: …The UNI College of
Business Administration invites high school seniors who intend to pursue a business major at UNI to apply for one of their UNI-Business
Freshman Scholarships…Those who qualify will compete for scholarships that range from $2,000 (non-renewable) to $7,000 (renewable up to
7 years)…Participation in this scholarship is by invitation only…To qualify and receive an invitation, students must have both ACT Math and
ACT composite scores of 27 or higher….A description of the program, as well as the application, can be found online at the UNI Business
portal…Just click on Academics and then scholarships to learn more about the UNI College of Business scholarship opportunities…
Application Deadline Extended to January 1, 2015
28. GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program: The GE-Reagan Scholarship Program annually awards roughly 20 college-bound students
who demonstrate exemplary leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship with $10,000 renewable scholarships - up to $40,000 total per
recipient. For more information, eligibility requirements, and an online application, visit www.reaganfoundation.org/scholarships or follow
them on Facebook at http://facebook.com/GEReaganScholarships. The application deadline is January 8, 2015
29. "America's Farmers Grow Ag Leaders" Scholarships Program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund ...$1,500 college scholarships
available...Learn more at GrowAgLeaders.com and apply at FFA.org/scholarships...Applications open on November 15, 2014 and close
February 1, 2015...Applicants must obtain three farmer endorsements of the application and these endorsements must be complete by February
8, 2015
30. ICAN Outstanding Student Scholarship Honoring Steve Loven…Two $500 one-time scholarships…For Iowa high school seniors
graduating in 2015 and attending a 2-year or a 4-year institution in Iowa beginning in Fall 2015…Requires an essay…Information on this
scholarship is available in the guidance office…To submit your application visit www.ICANsucceed.org/icanscholarship …Application
Deadline: March 1, 2015
31. Grand Lodge of Iowa, A.F. & A.M. MCEC “Mark Earl and Esther Ruth Spencer” Technical Scholarships...Scholarships will be
awarded to number of graduating Iowa public high school seniors who plan to enroll in a mechanical or trade course of study at an accredited
Iowa Community College ... Scholarships may be used for any bona fide school related expense such as tuition, fees, books, and tools … The
final number of scholarships and the amount is dependent upon investment income … Applications may be obtained from the GMG High
School guidance office … Application Deadline: March 2, 2015
32. Culver Fellows @ Simpson College … The John C. Culver Fellows program honors Senator Culver’s career and legacy in public service,
democratic values, and courage in public life … Culver Fellows are involved in every aspect of fulfilling the Culver center’s mission to
encourage civic engagement and public service … Each year, five incoming freshmen @ Simpson College who have a passion for politics,
history, debate, or public service will be selected as Culver Fellows and awarded a RENEWABLE SCHOLARSHIP OF AT LEAST $14,000
… Information on this scholarship is available in the GMG High School guidance office or by contacting (1) Seth Andersen @ 515-961-1354
or [email protected] , (2) Office of Admissions @ Simpson College @ 800-362-2454 or [email protected] , or (3)
www.simpson.edu/Culver-Center
33. Indian Hills Community College “Rosenman Academic Awards” for 2015-2016 ... For student who have demonstrated high
academic achievement … Awards will range from $1,200 to $3,200 … Interested students must completed the Indian Hills
Community College Foundation’s scholarship application online … The online application will be available January 5 through
June 4, 2015 at www.indianhills.edu/scholarshipapp … In addition to this scholarship, nearly 200 other scholarships are available
through the IHCC Foundation … These additional scholarships range from $600 to coverage for tuition, books, fees, and supplies
… By completing the online application, students may be considered for all scholarships offered through the IHCC Foundation
The Counselor's Corner Continued -
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Mr. Michael L. Pierson
34. Marshalltown Community College Scholarships … Applications for all scholarships are available online or in MCC's Financial Aid Office.
… All MCC Foundation scholarships require that a student must meet the following criteria: (1) Be enrolled full-time (12 credit hours or more
per semester) unless otherwise noted in the individual scholarship requirements, (2) Must meet minimum GPA requirements for each
individual scholarship an individual is eligible to apply for, (3) Must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid/FAFSA form each year
[NOTE: Students without a Social Security number please complete the Federal EFC Forecaster and contact the FA Office for further
instructions, (4) Must file an MCC Scholarship Application form [PLEASE NOTE: Some MCC scholarships have additional application forms
… Unless noted otherwise, the priority deadline for scholarship applications is March 1st.
GMG FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS - The GMG Community School District has a scholarship foundation called the GMG Foundation. It
awards a good number of scholarships to graduating seniors each year. Applications for the 2015 GMG Foundation Scholarships will not be
available until March [about the end of the 3rd quarter next semester]. If you would like information on these local scholarships stop by the
guidance office.
Tips for the College-Bound Students - The Iowa College Access Network (ICAN) will send high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors and
seniors a monthly e-mail or postcard with suggestions for “college planning.” Contact the Iowa College Access Network at 1-877-272-4692 to
arrange this. Or see your guidance counselor for a copy of these postcards. The ICAN web site is www.icansucceed.org. Or you can contact them at
[email protected]. ICAN has centers in Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Des Moines, Orange City, Ottumwa, Sioux City, and
Waterloo. All their services are FREE! Their mission is to assist Iowa students and their families through the college planning process.
Tips for College-Bound Seniors:
♦ Register to take the ACT or SAT for the first time or to re-take the ACT or SAT. You might want to retake if you want to try to get a better
score if you were ill, tired, or extremely anxious when you tested the first time. Check with your high school counselor or college admissions
office before you register to retake.
♦ Research scholarship possibilities at the library, high school counseling office and through web sites such as www.fastweb.com ,
www.icansucceed.org , or www.IHaveaPlanIowa.gov .
♦ If necessary, ask your teachers, high school counselor, pastor, priest, or minister, club sponsor, and/or employers to write letters of
recommendations for your admission and scholarship applications.
♦ Attend college fairs in your area and meet with college representatives who visit your high school.
♦ Continue gathering information about colleges that interest you and begin a list of those you may like to attend. You can link directly to Iowa
college home pages from the CPC website at www.collegeplanning.org.
♦ Beware of scholarship search and financial aid service organizations that charge a fee for service. Much of the information you may be
seeking is available at no cost. Check with your high school counselor or search for free on the ICAN’s web site
(www.icansucceed.org). ICAN can assist you through the financial aid process for free.
♦ Begin to determine some career areas that are of interest to you. Gather information and research colleges that you may be interested in
attending. Request information from the admissions office and visit the college’s web site. You can link directly to Iowa college home pages
from the ICAN web site (www.icansucceed.org).
♦ Create a folder or file to keep track of the information and correspondence you receive from colleges. Pay close attention to admission and
financial aid deadlines.
Tips for College-Bound Juniors, Sophomores, and Freshmen:
Discuss with your parents and high school counselor what is important to you in a college (for example., size, type, location, programs,
facilities, costs, academic quality, etc.)
Attend college fairs in your area and meet with college representatives who visit your high school.
Gather information about colleges that interest you and begin a list of those you may like to attend. You can link directly to Iowa college home
pages from the ICAN web site, www.icansucceed.org.
Start off on the right foot with your grades. Freshman grades do matter! Colleges look at your overall grade point average (G.P.A.) through
all four years of high school when making their admission decisions. It is more difficult to improve a G.P.A. that starts low.
GET INVOLVED! Find an activity at your school or in your community that you would enjoy (i.e. clubs, band, vocal, athletics, or volunteer
activities) and BE ACTIVE! Find extra-curricular activities in which you have an interest. This is a great way to meet new people! There are
also scholarship opportunities for being involved in different high school and community activities.
Talk to your parents and other adults in a variety of professions to determine what they like and dislike about their careers. Also find out what
kind of education is required for each type of job.
Did you know some colleges recommend you complete 4 years of English, 3- years of Math, Science and Social Studies, 2 years of Electives,
and 2 to 4 years of Foreign Language in high school? Work with your school counselor to make sure you are on the right track.
Get to know the four different “types of colleges.” These are colleges and universities that offer 4-year degrees and beyond as well as
community colleges and technical institutes that offer many different programs that can last 12 months to 2 years in length. There is a type of
campus and program that will interest you.
Stay organized by using a planner or electric organizer.
Get to know your teachers, counselors, and administrators so you understand what resources are available in your school.
Opportunities for Students in High School - Information on various opportunities for high school students arrives in the guidance office mailbox
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The Counselor's Corner Continued -
Mr. Michael L. Pierson
each week. I forward e-mail with information about opportunities for students as much as possible. Please encourage your student to read my emails and to stop in regularly to inquire about these e-mailed opportunities and/or to express interest in specific kinds of opportunities.
1. U.S. Senate Youth Competition for trip to Washington, D.C. in March…GMG can nominate one junior or senior to compete at the AEA level.
2. University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s “Women in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science Program
3. ATTENTION - GMG Junior Boys: The Garwin American Legion would like to pay for one of you to attend “Boys State” next June at
Camp Dodge in Des Moines. Boys State is a one-week experience in which you learn about city, county, and State government. There are lots
of social and recreational activities as well. See Mr. Pierson, if you are interested in attending Boys State next June..
4. OPPORTUNITY TO WIN A WEEK-LONG TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C. – Courtesy of your Consumers Energy Electric
Cooperative…Youth Tour is June 12 -18, 2015. Who can apply? High school sophomores or juniors whose parents/guardians are members of
Consumers Energy. Get details by contacting: Kippen Glenney at [email protected] or 800-696-6552 or
www.consumersenergy.coop. The Deadline to apply for this opportunity is February 27, 2015.
Upcoming ACT Test Dates for the Remainder of 2014-2015
The February test date is Saturday, February 7, 2015. The registration deadlines are; REGULAR – January 9 and LATE WINDOW –
January 10 to January 16. The Photo Upload Deadline is January 30.
The April test date is Saturday, April 18, 2015. The registration deadlines are; REGULAR – March 13 and LATE WINDOW – March 14
to March 27. The Photo Upload Deadline is April 10.
The June test date is Saturday, June 13, 2015. The registration deadlines are; REGULAR – May 8 and LATE WINDOW – May 9 to May
22. The Photo Upload Deadline is June 5.
The basic testing fee for the ACT test without writing is $38.00. The basic testing fee for the ACT test with writing test is $54.50.
The GMG High School Code is 161-720.
Students must register online at www.actstudent.org/start.
All ACT test dates and registration deadlines for 2014-2015 are on the school calendar.
REMEMBER, the best preparation for the ACT is taking the most challenging and rigorous curriculum while in high school. “EVERY
TIME YOU GO TO CLASS, YOU ARE PREPARING FOR THE ACT.” The student who takes World Literature and Advanced Writing in
English, Pre-Calculus and Calculus in Math, and Chemistry and Physics in Science increases the student’s chances of earning a high composite
score.
WINTER TRACK & FIELD CLINICS:
1. Central College Winter Track & Field Clinics to be held on February 1, 8, and 21 in Kuyper Field House on the campus of Central College.
COST is $60 per individual session or $150 for all three sessions. Lunch is provided. Clinic registration is 9:30 – 10:00 am. The clinic begins
at 10:00 am and ends at 4:00 pm. Registration forms are available from Coach Reed or Coach Pierson.
2. University of Dubuque Track & Field Academy to be held on January 18 and 25, 2015. Sundays, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. COST is $110 per
person. Registration due by January 9, 2015
NOTE: These Track & Field clinics will focus on Sprint, Hurdles, Jumps, and the Throwing Events and proper mechanics, performing a wide
variety of drills and exercises athletes can take back to their programs.
SODA (Students Opposed to Drugs and Alcohol) Accepting Donations - S.O.D.A., or Students Opposed to Drugs and
Alcohol held three raffles during the 2014 Football season. These three raffles raised nearly $325 to be donated to After
Prom and the Spring Carnival.
S.O.D.A. received over 110 items for these three raffles. THANK YOU! to those secondary staff, students,
parents, and community members who contributed raffle items. And THANK YOU to everyone who participated in this
SODA
year’s Friday night raffles.
PLEASE NOTE: S.O.D.A. will not be holding any additional raffles in 2014-2015.
If you were unable to donate a raffle item, you can donate cash. All money earned through the raffles and received in cash donations
will be donated to the two worthy GMG causes: (1) After Prom and (2) Spring Carnival.
S.O.D.A. will sponsor a trip in the spring to one of the Adventureland "Substance Free Weekends" dates. These dates are the last
weekend in April and the first weekend in May. At the present time, S.O. D.A. is planning to sponsor a bus to Adventureland on the first Saturday
in May 2015.
Thank you for your support! Your GMG S.O.D.A.
Pop Tabs for Ronald McDonald Houses - Please keep collecting the tabs from aluminum beverage cans. All tabs collected will be
donated to a Ronald McDonald House Charities. Thank you for your support, Mike Pierson
FOR SALE – 2014 GMG Boys Track Iowa Star Champions T-shirts - $5 each: (quantity of each size is in parentheses)
Color = Orange
Small (8)
Medium (7)
Large (4) X-Large (1)
Contact Coach Pierson
FOR SALE 2014 X-C T-Shirts - $10 each: (quantity of each size is in parentheses) Color = purple.
Small (1)
Medium (2)
X-Large (2)
Contact Coach Pierson
G MG