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A M O S A L O N Z O S TA G G H I G H S C H O O L
111 th Street and Roberts Road
Palos Hills, IL 60465
(708) 974-7400
http://stagg.d230.org
Charger Pride is
published by the
Consolidated
High School
District 230
School Board.
PRESORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 11
ORLAND PARK
Rick Nogal, President
Patrick O'Sullivan, Vice President
Kathy Quilty, Secretary
Susan Dalton
A M O S A L O N Z O S TA G G H I G H S C H O O L N E W S L E T T E R • OCTOBER 2014
Melissa Gracias
Kate Murphy-Peterson
Tony Serratore
Dr. James M. Gay, Superintendent
Eric Olsen, Principal
"An equal opportunity employer"
Printed on Recycled Paper
30% Total Recycled Fiber
October At A Glance
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2O14-15 School Calendar
Late Start
Powderpuff Game
Phi Alpha Theta Induction, 7 p.m.
Education Committee Meeting, 7 p.m.
Homecoming Football Game vs. Joliet Central
Homecoming Dance, 7 p.m.
Underclass Recognition Ceremony, 1st hour
Financial Aid Night, 7 p.m.
Late Start
Moraine Valley College Night, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Choir Concert, 7 p.m.
Senior Class Large Group Photo, 3rd hour
Online scheduler OPENS at 9 a.m. for
Parent-Teacher Conference appointments
Phone in assistance for Parent-Teacher Conference
appointments, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Phone in assistance for Parent-Teacher Conference
appointments, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Stagg Community Organization Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Student Services Committee Meeting, 7 p.m.
Late Start
NHS Induction Ceremony, 7 p.m.
Online scheduler CLOSES at 12 noon for
Parent-Teacher Conference appointments
Parent-Teacher Conferences, 12 noon to 8 p.m.
(no student attendance)
Columbus Day, no school
PSAT at Stagg, 8 a.m.
Fall Band Showcase Concert, 7 p.m.
Market Day
Music Booster Meeting, 7 p.m.
Late Start
ACT Test at Stagg
Late Start
Board of Education Meeting, Andrew H.S., 7 p.m.
Keep Calm and Take FACS,
We Have Your Back!
Students enrolled in the FACS classes this fall enjoyed the 1st annual
department picnic on Wednesday, September 17th. The Culinary 3
students prepared the desserts and while the students ate their lunch,
various FACS teachers talked about the necessary life skills that are
taught in their courses. Most of the students soon figured out that
learning the FACS of life is PRICELESS.
Homecoming at Stagg High School is an exciting time for students,
staff, alumni, and the community. It’s even more special for our staff
who are alumni! Pictured above are alumni who made their way
through the halls as students and now lead our classroom as teachers.
Stagg Student Council sold a record number of tickets
for this Homecoming themed, “Around the World.”
A CONSOLIDATED HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 230 SCHOOL
THOUGHT MEANING ACTION
Principal’s Message
What’s Inside
Charger Pride:
OCTOBER 2014
PAGE 2
Principal’s Message
PAGE 3
Learning
Parent-Teacher Conferences
First Stagg Student to Earn
MOS Certification
Deans’ Office
PAGE 4
Guidance
National Exams
Tech-Prep Programs Provide
Dual Credit
PAGE 5
Guidance
Counselors Provide A Variety
Of Assistance
Moraine Valley Community
College Career Night
PAGE 6
Learning
“Understanding Lincoln” –
Lifelong Learning at its Best
AP Scholar Awards
PAGE 7
Learning / Community
Involvement
Learning / Community Involvement
Dear Parents,
School safety is always the number one priority here at Stagg High School and District
230. We recognize that in order for instruction to take place and be effective, students
must feel that they cared for and their safety is important to the adults entrusted with
their care. There are many ways that Stagg High School works to provide a safe environment for students, but we also recognize that parents and students play a vital role
in maintaining a safe school. No one group can do it alone, we must all work together.
The following are safety tips and requirements that we ask all parents and students to
follow while on our campus:
Safety Coming to and from School
● All students should be dropped off/picked up on school grounds
either on the north drive or along the east side of the school building.
● Students should NEVER be dropped off on the street or street side,
this includes on 111th and on Roberts Road.
● Students should ALWAYS cross at the crosswalk at 111th and Roberts Road,
this includes students who use the parking lot at New Beginnings Church.
● There are no U-Turns on Roberts Road.
● Students should NEVER run across 111th Street in front of
the school building. The Palos Hills Police Department will be
ticketing students who do not cross at the crosswalk.
● Students must have school IDs to get on school buses.
● Drivers are not to use cellphones in school parking lots.
Medications and Health Concerns
● Any and all prescription/over the counter medication
must be kept in the nurse’s office with a doctor’s prescription.
● Students may not carry prescription or over-the-counter
medications on their person or in their locker while at school.
● The nurse’s office must be made aware of any medical condition
that requires assistance in moving about the building.
School Building Security
● Students are required to have their IDs with them at all times.
● During school hours, all visitors must enter through the North Door Security Station.
● If you would like to meet with a staff member or administration, you must have an
appointment, please make sure you arrange for an appointment ahead of time.
● Remind your child that they should NEVER let any student or adult into the building.
● Contact our Deans Office if you have any security concerns.
● Stagg High School has an Anonymous Tip Line that is checked daily.
The number is 708-974-7400 EXT 7222.
School safety is everyone’s business and we welcome the partnership with staff,
students, and parents in making Stagg High School a safe learning environment!
Go Chargers!
Eric A. Olsen
Principal
Music Department
Parent Group News
PAGE 8
Noteworthy Band News
September has been a busy month for the
Marching Chargers, with performances at
football games, competitions, and parades.
October will prove to be just as busy, if not
even more challenging!
The Marching Chargers will perform at four
competitions* in October.
October 11 ISU Marching Band
Championships/MahometSeymour Marching Festival
October 18 Illini Marching Band
Championships
October 25 Downers Grove South Marching
Mustang Music Bowl
*These competitions are all day events, with
high schools from all across the state of Illinois
merging onto the same field to compete! Our
students arrive early at school to rehearse on
Saturday morning, and upon arrival at the
venue, rehearse again prior to competition.
Afterwards, the students watch the remainder
of schools and await the awards ceremony,
prior to departing for home around 9 p.m.
The Marching Chargers invite everyone to
attend these competitions and cheer them on!
Marching Band Jamboree
The Jamboree was a tremendous success,
and was well received by all who attended.
ATHLETIC BOOSTERS
Homecoming is Oct 3rd!!! Come to the
concession stand during the football games
and enjoy something special.
Athletic Booster Club Fall Fundraiser is
Saturday, November 8th at Trio in Palos
Hills from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. $25.00 per person
includes buffet, silent auction items, raffles,
and supporting your athletes! Tickets will be
sold during all football games, in school (see
Betsy Garbrecht) and will be sold at the door.
MUSIC BOOSTERS
Happy Autumn - your Music Boosters
have had a great start to the season!!
Our Marching Band Jamboree was held on
September 13th, with 20 bands visiting to
perform in competition. Our Marching
Chargers and Color Guard put on a terrific
show in exhibition. It was an awesome day
and a huge success. This could not have been
possible without the help of our wonderful,
hard-working volunteers. Our heartfelt thanks
go out to all who came out that day to support
our Band, Choir and Guard students!!
Mark your calendars for the annual Fall Craft
Show. This year's dates are November 15th
and 16th. If you'd like to volunteer to help
with this event, please e-mail Karen Lencioni
at [email protected]. There will be a wide
array of crafters and vendors there to satisfy
your holiday shopping needs. Student
musicians and vocalists will be performing as
well, so come on by to support our students
and have a great time!
School Calendar
Culinary 3 students “Cake Bake Off.”
Our next Boosters' meeting will be held
Tuesday, October 21st at 7 p.m. in Room 605.
Special thanks go to our Music Booster
organization and all of our many volunteers
who put in so much time to make our
Jamboree happen!
Other important news in October includes the
IMEA (Illinois Music Educators Association) auditions, which take place on Tuesday, Oct. 14th.
Initially, students are selected by the band and
choir directors to audition for their district,
which is District 1. Stagg falls under the
purview of District 1, which is the largest and
most competitive of the nine districts in the
state of Illinois. District I encompasses a large
portion of the southwest suburbs and the
entire city of Chicago. As many as 2,000 students compete for only 600 coveted spots in
the IMEA District I band, choir, orchestra and
jazz bands.
Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony and
Marching Chargers will showcase their talents
in the Fall Band Showcase. On Wednesday,
October 8th, the Stagg Choirs will put on their
Preview Choir Concert. Both concerts take
place in the Performing Arts Center beginning
at 7 p.m. and are free of charge.
Good luck to all our band and choir students!
Be sure to visit the band and choir websites:
www.staggbands.org and www.staggchoirs.org
Band and choir students who will be participating have been earnestly practicing for their
auditions. If selected, the students perform at
the District Festival, and from there can be
selected for the All State Festival. Selection
into the IMEA is quite a prestigious honor.
October also begins the first of the four formal
concerts presented by the choir and band programs. On Monday, October 20th, members of
the Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band,
The finishing touches were placed on the
north entrance. Our railings are adorned
with Chargers welcoming the students and
the community to Stagg High School.
All are welcome to attend!! We'd love to see
you there.
includes a gift and the chance for seniors to
apply for a scholarship.
For the Music Boosters, Lisa Gonzini, President
Parents can sign up by e-mailing
[email protected]. For more information,
click on “Stagg Community Organization” under
the “Parent Organizations” tab on Stagg’s web
page at www.D230.org. Information also is
available at http://staggsco.weebly.com.
SCO
Stagg Community Organization Starts Strong
Stagg’s parent booster club, SCO, would
like to thank all of the new members who
attended the first meeting on September 8.
The turnout filled room 605! Thank you also
to those who bought tickets for the fall raffle.
The winners, drawn September 5, have been
notified.
Next month’s meeting, will be 6:30 p.m.
on Monday, October 13, and will
feature speaker Mary Stelter, who
will discuss service learning hours.
All graduates of District 230 must
complete 24 service hours, and Mrs.
Stelter will talk about the procedures
students should follow to ensure they
are eligible for graduation and other
levels of community service.
All meetings include a report by
Principal Eric Olsen or another Stagg
administrator on activities of the past
month and upcoming activities, as well
as taking questions from members.
Anyone with a connection to Stagg,
especially parents, is invited to join
the SCO to voice opinions and work
together to promote positive change.
The organization’s mission is to make
a difference in the lives of students,
teachers, faculty and staff at Stagg.
The membership fee is $15, which
The SCO welcomes ideas for future speakers.
Meetings generally are the second Monday of
each month. All are welcome!
Learning
Learning
“Understanding Lincoln” – Lifelong Learning at its Best
Social studies teacher Jennifer Baniewicz recently completed an online
graduate course associated with the highly regarded Gilder Lehrman
Institute and Dickinson University in Pennsylvania. The course,
Understanding Lincoln, focused on using primary sources to offer
insight into the mind of the iconic sixteenth president of the United
States. Led by Professor Matt Pinsker, the class “met” multiple times
on-line and featured special roundtable discussions with well-respected
historians and political experts.
political evolution of the Emancipation Proclamation and was created
using Storify and Prezi online platforms. Selected to be added to the
website, “Lincoln’s Writings,” that is part of Professor Pinsker’s House
Divided long-term research project, Jennifer’s work serves as an
exemplar of how to develop innovative lessons that blend the teaching
of critical historical research skills, the use of 21st century instructional
technology tools, and the meaningful alignment to key elements of the
Common Core reading standards.
Jennifer’s experiences in the course modeled the best that social
studies education has to offer students in both traditional and innovative
ways. The expertise acquired through primary source analysis, roundtable discussions, and the creation of a multimedia lesson extends
beyond her own learning and will benefit her students and colleagues in
the social studies department. Jennifer’s lesson project focused on the
Jennifer’s long-time interest in Abraham Lincoln and her passion for
teaching history made this a very fulfilling course to take. In addition,
Stagg’s social studies students and Jennifer’s fellow department
members are fortunate to now have access to a broader variety of U.S.
History primary sources and a sampling of new cloud-based software
that will enhance teaching and learning.
AP Scholar Awards
One hundred twelve students at Amos
Alonzo Stagg High School have earned AP
Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams.
The College Board’s Advanced Placement
Program (AP) provides motivated and
academically prepared students with the
opportunity to take rigorous college-level
courses while still in high school, and to earn
college credit advanced placement, or both for
successful performance on the AP exams.
About 18 percent of the nearly 1.8 million
students worldwide who took AP Exams
performed at a significantly high level to also
earn an AP Scholar Award.
At Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 2 students
qualified for the National AP Scholar Award
by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on
a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and
grades of 4 on eight or more of those exams.
These students are Rami Hourani and Daniel
Jamrozik.
Thirty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar with Distinction Award by earning
an average of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams
taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or
more of these exams. These students are
Nuha Abdelrahim, Sami Al Ahmadi, Melanie
Arnold, Gerardo Arriaga, Andrew Deangelis,
Dominic Demma, Ashley Dettlaff, Michaela
Dwyer, Alexandra Evangelopoulos, Kathryn
Gabel, Amber Girod, Nick Graves, Paulina
Guzek, Rami Hourani, Ragda Izar, Daniel
Jamrozik, Samuel Kearns, Andre Kohn,
Rebecca Krasny, Thomas Krumpolc, Justyna
Kukulka, Nicholas Mathis, Cortney McInerney,
Elizabeth Paris, Jonathan Renfree, Sean
Runyon, Aimee Schroeder, Dominic Singer,
Carson Smith, Michael Walsh, Haleigh
Weszelits, Patrick Wirry and Brendan Wolan.
Twenty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar with Honor Award by earning an
average of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams
taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or
more of these exams. These students are
Sandra Arriaga, Feross Atallah, Alexander
Bieniek, Kamaljit Braich, Paul Davenport, Anna
Dobrowlski, Connor Donahue, Serena George,
Nicholas Gogola, Katherine Johnson, Danielle
Klimas, Kelli Krown, Michalina Lassak,
Brandon Lunt, Hayley Madura, Ignas
Matelionis, Margaret Miller, Kylee Murray,
Kacper Ostalowski, Samiya Papa, Luke
Pappas, Elizabeth Poynton, Jillian Ryan and
Angelika Szczerba.
Fifty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar Award by completing three or more
AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. The AP
Scholars are Omar Abuzir, John Adams, Sana
Alnajjar, Nashami Alqawasmi, Ardian Amiti,
Arhum Arshad, Nathiniel Christakis, Jinnie
Christensen, Evans Chronis, Natalie Cianci,
Carl Cuta, Samantha Delp, Adrienne DiFoggio,
Mia DiGiacomo, Daphne Mae Domingo,
Patrick Early, Brian Flanagan, Jessica Gbur,
Indre Geneviciute, Saad Ghani, Eleni Giffin,
Amal Hassoun, Dian Ivanov, Sean James,
Thomas Janas, Alan Jaski, Brendan Karr,
Nouredean Khrisat, Brittany Klimas, Sebastian
Kolpak, Claire Kredens, Allison Kumke, Eileen
Lennon, Marta Leshyk, Mark Lowisz, Angela
Magnuson, Ophelia Makis, Alexandria
McGurk, Maura Michels, Mesopotamia
Nowotarski, Sara Olson, Peter Para, Gianna
Petrelli, Sydney Phillips, Natalie Polk, Natalia
Rojszyk, Natalie Roth, Ajay Sivam, Adrian
Skwirut, Emily Smiarowski, Ava Thommen,
Kamila Wierzbiak and Nolan Winkelmann.
Of the 2014 school year’s recipients at Amos
Alonzo Stagg High School forty-six were
Juniors: John Adams, Sana Alnajjar, Sandra
Arriaga, Arhun Arshad, Alexander Bieniek,
Natalie Cianci, Nathaniel Christakis, Evans
Chronis, Paul Davenport, Andrew Deangelis,
Samantha Delp, Dominic Demma, Ashley
Detlaff, Mia DiGiacomo, Connor Donohue,
Michaela Dwyer, Brian Flanagan, Jessica
Gbur, Serena George, Saad Ghani, Eleni
Giffin, Nicholas Gogola, Sean James, Thomas
Janas, Brendan Karr, Nouredean Khrisat,
Brittany Klimas, Danielle Klimas, Andre Kohn,
Claire Kredens, Justyna Kukulka, Marta
Leshyk, Hayley Madura, Ignas Matelionis,
Alexandria McGurk, Luke Pappas, Gianna
Petrelli, Sydney Phillips, Elizabeth Poynton,
Jonathan Renfree, Natalia Rojszyk, Dominic
Singer, Carson Smith, Angelika Szczerba,
Kamila Wierzbiak, Nolan Winkelman and
Brandan Wolan.
Though more than 30 different college-level
courses and exams, AP provides motivated
and academically prepared students with the
opportunity to earn college credit or advanced
placement and stand out in the college admissions process. Each exam is developed by a
committee of college and university faculty and
AP teachers, ensuring that AP exams are
aligned with the same high standards expected by college faculty at some of the nation’s
leading liberal arts and research institutions.
More than 3,600 colleges in the United States
provide credit and/or placement for qualifying
exam grades. Research consistently shows
that AP students who score a 3 or higher on
AP exams (based on a scale from 1 to 5, with
5 being the highest) typically experience
greater academic success in college and higher graduation rates than students who do not
participate in AP.
The College Board is a not-for-profit membership organization whose mission is to connect
students to college success and opportunity.
Founded in 1900, the association is composed of
more than 5,600 schools, colleges, universities,
and other educational organizations. Each year,
the College Board serves seven million students
and their parents, 23,000 high schools and
3,800 colleges through major programs and
services in college readiness, college admissions, guidance, assessment, financial aid,
enrollment, and teaching and learning. Among
its best-known programs are the SAT, the
PSAT/NMSQT, and the Advanced Placement
Program (AP). The College Board is committed
to the principles of excellence and equity, and
that commitment is embodied in all of its programs, services, activities and concerns.
Reminder! Make Your Appointments
for Parent-Teacher Conferences
Deans’ Office
Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled to be held on Thursday, October 16 from
12 noon until 8 p.m. This is a great opportunity to discuss with the teacher how your
student is performing within a curriculum and communicate face to face ways to work
on skill deficiencies.
Parents are reminded that per state law and for the
safety of our students and staff, cell phone usage while
driving on campus is prohibited. Additionally, please
observe the painted pedestrian crosswalks to ensure
that students can cross safely and directional arrows.
Scheduling an appointment with the teachers you would like to meet is easy and can
be accomplished in one of two ways. The format more convenient to your personal
schedule is the online scheduler.
Online scheduling will be available from the school’s home page at
district.d230.org/stagg:
Friday, October 10 at 9 a.m. through Wednesday, October 15 at noon.
Phone in scheduling to 708-974-7400 will ONLY be available:
Friday, October 10 and Monday, October 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each day
Phone requests for assistance with scheduling appointments
will only be taken on these days.
Links to the online website will be on each school’s homepage along with step-by-step
instructions that will walk you through the process. If you need assistance with the
online process, please contact the school directly at 708-974-7400.
First Stagg Student to Earn
MOS Certification
Computer Applications student, Jacob Puente, was the
first student in Ms. Kuypers’ class to earn his Microsoft
Office Specialist (MOS) certification in Microsoft Word.
Students in this class work in programs certified by
Microsoft to help train students how to use their
programs. In the Computer Applications class,
students will be working towards certification in Word,
Excel, and Power Point.
Parking Lot Safety
Street Crossing Safety
Students are reminded to always cross the streets
surrounding Stagg (including Roberts Road and
111th Street) at crosswalks. The Palos Hills Police
Department may issue a jaywalking ticket to anyone
who does not follow the correct procedure.
Attendance Reminders
To call in an absence please call 974-7500. We have
24-hour voice mail. If your child is running late, call
and let us know. Provide your student’s name, ID
number, length of absence and your name.
If your student needs to leave school early, call 974-7500
in the morning so an off-campus pass can be issued.
Remind your student to pick up his or her off-campus
pass in the Deans’ office immediately upon arriving
at school. The student will show the pass to the
classroom teacher to get permission to leave the
classroom. After the student visits his or her locker the
student will leave through the North door (N-1) next to
the theater on 111th Street. Parents can wait in front
of school for their student to walk out to the car.
Temporary Parking Passes
The teacher says they work in this class and that there
are times you might not even know the students are there, they are so quiet and
focused! Students work at their own pace and take the certification test when they
feel they are ready to. Many of the students are already on the verge of attempting to
certify in Microsoft Word. Once they do, they will move on to work in Excel.
Stagg SSA
Student leaders from a variety
of student organizations
comprise the Principal and
Superintendent Student
advisory. These students
represent Stagg High School
in many of the decisions and
discussions that affect students
from across the District.
Students on this advisory
committee are: Nora Atallah,
Asmaa Amara, Grace
Garbrecht, Sireen Hamarshah,
Nora Klein, Luke Pappas,
Emily Peterson, Gianna
Petrelli, Gabriella Rodriquez,
Bassel Shanab, Sarah Snell,
Jennifer Stamos, Goda
Stelnionyte, Alyline Villegas,
and Julie Zielinski.
In order to accommodate families who may need a
one day pass for their student to park, temporary
parking passes are issued by the Deans’ Office. To
obtain a temporary pass, parents can call any time
in advance to reserve a parking spot. The cost of a
temporary spot is $3.00 per day. Please remember
there are a limited number of spots and students will
not be allowed to park without a parent phone call.
Consequences for parking without permission may
include three hour detentions, tickets, or tows.
● Each student may park up to 5 times per semester
● Call 974-7493 to access a 24 hour voicemail to
reserve a spot
● In the message giving your student permission to park,
please include the student’s name, ID number, and
date for parking
● All calls must be received before the student has
arrived to campus
● The student can pick up the pass at the Deans’ Office
any time prior to 7:45 a.m. on the day the spot is
needed
● When picking up the pass, please pull the car to the
curb (not blocking traffic) by the E-2 entrance
Student Tardies
Punctual arrival to school and class is expected of
every student. Students who arrive tardy to class miss
instruction time and interrupt lessons in progress.
Please make sure that your child arrives to school with
ample time to visit their locker, use the restroom, and
arrive to class. If a student has accumulated three
tardies during a semester, you will receive an email
informing you of this. If the student accumulates five
or more tardies, they will need to serve consequences
from the Deans’ Office and may see privileges suspended if the tardies are excessive.
Guidance
Guidance
Standardized Exams: The Who, What & When
National Exams
The PSAT will be given on Saturday,
October 18, 2014 at Stagg High
School. Students who have signed
up to take this test should plan to
arrive at Stagg by 7:30 a.m. The
test will conclude at approximately
11:30 a.m. Any student with a
school-related time conflict who cannot take the PSAT on the Saturday
test date should see Mrs. Gulden in
the Guidance office regarding an
alternate test date.
Sign up for this test took place in
September. The PSAT is administered to juniors and honors-level
sophomores on a nationally-set
Saturday date in October. This is a
practice test used to assist students
in preparing for the SAT. Results
include an estimated SAT score. A
student who does very well on this
exam and who meets other academic
criteria may qualify for the National
Merit Scholarship Program. National
Merit Scholars are the nation's top
1% of all test takers and are eligible
for certain scholarships. Important
note to sophomores with extended
time accommodations: Application
must be made this year for the junior
year test.
ACT (American College Test)
The ACT will be given at Stagg High
School this year on October 25, 2014
and April 18, 2015. There are several
additional administrations of the ACT
on dates throughout the year; see
www.actsudent.org for details. The
ACT is usually taken in spring of the
junior year, but it may also be taken
in the fall of the senior year. This
test is used for college entrance
eligibility to all colleges/universities
in Illinois and around the country.
This test is designed to measure a
student's academic achievement in
English, math, reading, and science
reasoning. Most colleges in the
Midwest require students to take this
test and submit their test scores to
them when they apply for admission.
Many colleges accept this test or the
SAT. Students may retake this test
as many times as they need; there
is a test fee. Students can ONLY
register online at www.actstudent.org.
SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests are achievement exams designed to measure
the academic understanding a student has already acquired. They
are offered in many areas of study
including English, mathematics,
history, foreign language, and the
sciences. Some selective colleges
require students to take one or more
SAT Subject Tests when they apply
for admission. Depending upon the
college, SAT Subject Tests may be
used for admission or placement
purposes. Students can register
online at www.collegeboard.com. See
College Board’s website for test dates.
2014-2015 Schedule for College
Admission Tests
ACT (American College Test):
Students can register ONLY online at www.actstudent.org.
PLAN
Colleges Visiting Stagg
This test is administered to all freshmen on one designated
school day during the month of April, either April 22 or 23.
There is no cost to students. The PLAN assesses academic
development in English, math, reading and scientific reasoning;
it is a pre-ACT. The results of this test come with additional
suggestions for preparing for the ACT, as part of the EPAS System.
Did you know that last year over 85 colleges
visited Stagg High School? There are a wide
range of colleges and universities that come
to Stagg to share information and answer
questions from our students. It is a wonderful
opportunity and resource for student use.
Check out the Colleges Visiting Stagg
EXPLORE
The EXPLORE is administered to all incoming freshman as
eighth graders on Saturday, November 8, 2014. There is no
cost to students. The EXPLORE will test students in English,
mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Students also
take an interest inventory to help define their educational and
career plans. This is the first step in the EPAS process
EPAS
Together the EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT comprise the
Educational Planning and Assessment System for all students.
Interpretation booklets and your student’s results were delivered
to students in September.
Tech-Prep Programs Provide
Dual Credit
The Moraine Area Career System (MACS) and Moraine Valley
Community College (MVCC) are now offering area high schools
an improved way for students to earn college credit while still in
high school.
As a major initiative for both the MACS office of MVCC, Tech
Prep courses will be offered to high school students as dual
credit courses. Dual credit enables students to enroll for college equivalent courses while concurrently enrolled in their high
school Tech Prep courses. Students will receive both high
school credit and college credit if they successfully complete
these courses with a grade of B or better.
By participating in the Tech Prep Dual Credit Program, high
school students can take advantage of these fantastic benefits:
● Saving money on tuition
and textbooks with FREE
college credits
● Getting a head start on
career by earning college
credit now
● Applying course credits
and grades to both high
school and college transcripts at the same time
● Accelerating academic
progress with challenging
college-level coursework
● Eliminating the need to
travel to a college campus
to receive college credits
● Exploring exciting career
options through work site
visits and internships
● Acquiring cutting-edge
technical expertise
Date
Registration Deadline
Late Fee Required
October 25, 2104
September 19, 2014
Sept. 20 - Oct. 3, 2014
December 13, 2014
November 7, 2014
November 8 - 21, 2014
February 7, 2015*
January 9, 2015
January 10 - 16, 2015
April 18, 2015
March 13, 2015
March 14 - 27, 2015
June 13, 2015
May 8, 2015
May 9 - 22, 2015
College Bound Senior Checklist
Senior Meeting with Counselor – Ask your student about this meeting. Key points:
● Make sure your list of colleges is appropriate ● Get out and visit college campuses.
for your academic and personal needs.
● Sign up to meet with college representatives
● Complete college admissions applications!
visiting Stagg.
● Watch your deadlines! All application
● Attend the MVCC College/Career Fair
materials must be submitted to your
on October 8, 2014.
counselor two weeks prior to deadline!
Moraine Valley Community College Career Night
Moraine Valley Community College will host
its annual College/Career Night on October 8,
2014 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event will
feature representatives from 150 public and
private colleges and universities, trade and
technical schools, nursing schools, and the
A Note from the
Tryout dates
for winter
sports
October 27, 2014
Boys’ Bowling
Poms/Dance
November 3, 2014
Girls’ Basketball
Cheerleading
Financial Aid Night
November 17, 2014
Girls’ Bowling
November 24, 2014
Boys’ Swimming
& Diving
Get Off To A Good Start
All freshman met with their counselor in
September to discuss their steps for success.
Freshman want to get off to a great start
because it’s easier to maintain a good grade
point average than it is to raise one. Stagg
offers several opportunities to help students
with their academic success. View a sample
of information given to all students at
http://stagg.d230.org/resources/
Online Grades
Students can stay on top of their grades by
checking Skyward on a regular basis. They
should enter the username and the password
that was assigned to them at the beginning
of the year. Please keep in mind that the
password is case sensitive. Students are
encouraged to talk to their teachers if they
are missing assignments. If parents need
assistance accessing Skyward please
contact our Tech department at 974-7499.
Counselors Meet With
Seniors
the music from these headsets, it is definitely
too loud.
Signs of vision problems can include frequent
headaches, squinting, sitting nearer to the television, and holding a book or magazine closer.
If you have a concern and would like to have your
child screened during the school year, please call
the Health Services Office at 708-974-7459.
Athletic Department - Winter Sports 2014-2015
November 10, 2014
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Gymnastics
Boys’ Wrestling
Please join us Tuesday, October 7th at 7 p.m. in Stagg’s
Performing Arts Center for a Financial Aid presentation by
Mr. Frank Palmasani. This very informative evening will give
students and families an opportunity to learn more about the
financial aid process, how to find affordable college options and
how to manage college costs. We encourage college bound
students and their families to attend.
armed forces. Students and parents are
encouraged to attend and begin gathering
information about post high school opportunities. This night can be especially helpful for
sophomores and juniors.
Health Office
During the entire school year, the Health office
does offer screening for vision and hearing.
Signs of a hearing loss can include the inability
to tolerate loud sounds, poor speech, speaking
in a relatively loud voice, and often hearing a
ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. It is especially important for students to lower the volume in their iPod/music headsets and wear ear
protection when necessary. If others can hear
To learn which Tech Prep classes qualify for dual credit and
how to participate, contact your student’s counselor.
ACT: 2014-2015 Test Dates
Calendar on “Stagg’s College Homepage”
located under Guidance on the web. You
can also follow us on Twitter, @aasguidance,
for college-related updates, announcements,
and reminders and students can view the
large calendar of these visits in the commons
at Stagg.
Counselors Provide A
Variety Of Assistance
Due to liability concerns and
I.H.S.A. regulations, no student
will be allowed to participate
(including tryouts) in athletics
unless the on-line registration
process is completed and a
current physical is on file.
All student athletes must be registered online at our athletic website
@ www.athletics2000.com/stagg
(click on “Registration: at top of
page) or the registration website
@ https://stagg.8to18.com.
All students will need a current
physical on file. Freshmen can
use their entering school physical
for athletics as long as it is current
(13 months from date of examination). Students are welcome to
check the date of their physical at
the athletic office. They can pick
up a blank physical and return
their completed physical to the
athletic office.
In order to participate in Athletics
at Stagg, each athlete must
receive clearance from the Athletic
Director’s Office prior to tryouts.
To be cleared for participation, the
following items must be on file:
● A current sports physical
(Incoming freshman can use
their school physical).
● All parents of student athletes
must complete the on-line
registration @
https://stagg.8to18.com or
www.athletics2000.com/stagg
and select “Registration” at the
top of the website home page.
● All returning student athletes
must have passed 25 hours of
work in the semester prior to
competition.
Some coaches may have an
informational meeting one to two
weeks prior to tryouts. Please
check the daily announcements
for specifics.
If you have any questions, please
contact the athletic office at 708974-7439 or the coach directly.
During the month of September the guidance
counselors met with seniors individually to
present the framework of Senior tasks
regarding future plans. Students will be
informed about information regarding the
college application process, senior year time
line, financial aid information, scholarship
information, post high school planning,
opportunities at Moraine Valley Community
College, as well as other career related information by counselors in one-on-one meetings with all seniors. Counselors will detail
the college application process and assist
with individual post high school plans.
The Guidance Department provides assistance for students with developing their fouryear plan. Counselors will be meeting with
Freshmen students over the course of the
first semester to begin this process. “Career
Cruising” is a tool – ask your student to show
you their work on Career Cruising. Please
call or e-mail your student’s counselor if you
have any questions.
Parent access to step by step College/Career
information can be found on our website at:
https://district.d230.org/stagg/depts/guidance/default.aspx
Need Help Making Career
Choices?
College, Trade School, Apprenticeship?
What will your student do after graduation?
Career Cruising, a Web based exploration
and planning tool can help answer these
questions. For information about accessing
this site please call your child’s guidance
counselor. All Freshman have begun this
process.
Guidance
Guidance
Standardized Exams: The Who, What & When
National Exams
The PSAT will be given on Saturday,
October 18, 2014 at Stagg High
School. Students who have signed
up to take this test should plan to
arrive at Stagg by 7:30 a.m. The
test will conclude at approximately
11:30 a.m. Any student with a
school-related time conflict who cannot take the PSAT on the Saturday
test date should see Mrs. Gulden in
the Guidance office regarding an
alternate test date.
Sign up for this test took place in
September. The PSAT is administered to juniors and honors-level
sophomores on a nationally-set
Saturday date in October. This is a
practice test used to assist students
in preparing for the SAT. Results
include an estimated SAT score. A
student who does very well on this
exam and who meets other academic
criteria may qualify for the National
Merit Scholarship Program. National
Merit Scholars are the nation's top
1% of all test takers and are eligible
for certain scholarships. Important
note to sophomores with extended
time accommodations: Application
must be made this year for the junior
year test.
ACT (American College Test)
The ACT will be given at Stagg High
School this year on October 25, 2014
and April 18, 2015. There are several
additional administrations of the ACT
on dates throughout the year; see
www.actsudent.org for details. The
ACT is usually taken in spring of the
junior year, but it may also be taken
in the fall of the senior year. This
test is used for college entrance
eligibility to all colleges/universities
in Illinois and around the country.
This test is designed to measure a
student's academic achievement in
English, math, reading, and science
reasoning. Most colleges in the
Midwest require students to take this
test and submit their test scores to
them when they apply for admission.
Many colleges accept this test or the
SAT. Students may retake this test
as many times as they need; there
is a test fee. Students can ONLY
register online at www.actstudent.org.
SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests are achievement exams designed to measure
the academic understanding a student has already acquired. They
are offered in many areas of study
including English, mathematics,
history, foreign language, and the
sciences. Some selective colleges
require students to take one or more
SAT Subject Tests when they apply
for admission. Depending upon the
college, SAT Subject Tests may be
used for admission or placement
purposes. Students can register
online at www.collegeboard.com. See
College Board’s website for test dates.
2014-2015 Schedule for College
Admission Tests
ACT (American College Test):
Students can register ONLY online at www.actstudent.org.
PLAN
Colleges Visiting Stagg
This test is administered to all freshmen on one designated
school day during the month of April, either April 22 or 23.
There is no cost to students. The PLAN assesses academic
development in English, math, reading and scientific reasoning;
it is a pre-ACT. The results of this test come with additional
suggestions for preparing for the ACT, as part of the EPAS System.
Did you know that last year over 85 colleges
visited Stagg High School? There are a wide
range of colleges and universities that come
to Stagg to share information and answer
questions from our students. It is a wonderful
opportunity and resource for student use.
Check out the Colleges Visiting Stagg
EXPLORE
The EXPLORE is administered to all incoming freshman as
eighth graders on Saturday, November 8, 2014. There is no
cost to students. The EXPLORE will test students in English,
mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Students also
take an interest inventory to help define their educational and
career plans. This is the first step in the EPAS process
EPAS
Together the EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT comprise the
Educational Planning and Assessment System for all students.
Interpretation booklets and your student’s results were delivered
to students in September.
Tech-Prep Programs Provide
Dual Credit
The Moraine Area Career System (MACS) and Moraine Valley
Community College (MVCC) are now offering area high schools
an improved way for students to earn college credit while still in
high school.
As a major initiative for both the MACS office of MVCC, Tech
Prep courses will be offered to high school students as dual
credit courses. Dual credit enables students to enroll for college equivalent courses while concurrently enrolled in their high
school Tech Prep courses. Students will receive both high
school credit and college credit if they successfully complete
these courses with a grade of B or better.
By participating in the Tech Prep Dual Credit Program, high
school students can take advantage of these fantastic benefits:
● Saving money on tuition
and textbooks with FREE
college credits
● Getting a head start on
career by earning college
credit now
● Applying course credits
and grades to both high
school and college transcripts at the same time
● Accelerating academic
progress with challenging
college-level coursework
● Eliminating the need to
travel to a college campus
to receive college credits
● Exploring exciting career
options through work site
visits and internships
● Acquiring cutting-edge
technical expertise
Date
Registration Deadline
Late Fee Required
October 25, 2104
September 19, 2014
Sept. 20 - Oct. 3, 2014
December 13, 2014
November 7, 2014
November 8 - 21, 2014
February 7, 2015*
January 9, 2015
January 10 - 16, 2015
April 18, 2015
March 13, 2015
March 14 - 27, 2015
June 13, 2015
May 8, 2015
May 9 - 22, 2015
College Bound Senior Checklist
Senior Meeting with Counselor – Ask your student about this meeting. Key points:
● Make sure your list of colleges is appropriate ● Get out and visit college campuses.
for your academic and personal needs.
● Sign up to meet with college representatives
● Complete college admissions applications!
visiting Stagg.
● Watch your deadlines! All application
● Attend the MVCC College/Career Fair
materials must be submitted to your
on October 8, 2014.
counselor two weeks prior to deadline!
Moraine Valley Community College Career Night
Moraine Valley Community College will host
its annual College/Career Night on October 8,
2014 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event will
feature representatives from 150 public and
private colleges and universities, trade and
technical schools, nursing schools, and the
A Note from the
Tryout dates
for winter
sports
October 27, 2014
Boys’ Bowling
Poms/Dance
November 3, 2014
Girls’ Basketball
Cheerleading
Financial Aid Night
November 17, 2014
Girls’ Bowling
November 24, 2014
Boys’ Swimming
& Diving
Get Off To A Good Start
All freshman met with their counselor in
September to discuss their steps for success.
Freshman want to get off to a great start
because it’s easier to maintain a good grade
point average than it is to raise one. Stagg
offers several opportunities to help students
with their academic success. View a sample
of information given to all students at
http://stagg.d230.org/resources/
Online Grades
Students can stay on top of their grades by
checking Skyward on a regular basis. They
should enter the username and the password
that was assigned to them at the beginning
of the year. Please keep in mind that the
password is case sensitive. Students are
encouraged to talk to their teachers if they
are missing assignments. If parents need
assistance accessing Skyward please
contact our Tech department at 974-7499.
Counselors Meet With
Seniors
the music from these headsets, it is definitely
too loud.
Signs of vision problems can include frequent
headaches, squinting, sitting nearer to the television, and holding a book or magazine closer.
If you have a concern and would like to have your
child screened during the school year, please call
the Health Services Office at 708-974-7459.
Athletic Department - Winter Sports 2014-2015
November 10, 2014
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Gymnastics
Boys’ Wrestling
Please join us Tuesday, October 7th at 7 p.m. in Stagg’s
Performing Arts Center for a Financial Aid presentation by
Mr. Frank Palmasani. This very informative evening will give
students and families an opportunity to learn more about the
financial aid process, how to find affordable college options and
how to manage college costs. We encourage college bound
students and their families to attend.
armed forces. Students and parents are
encouraged to attend and begin gathering
information about post high school opportunities. This night can be especially helpful for
sophomores and juniors.
Health Office
During the entire school year, the Health office
does offer screening for vision and hearing.
Signs of a hearing loss can include the inability
to tolerate loud sounds, poor speech, speaking
in a relatively loud voice, and often hearing a
ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. It is especially important for students to lower the volume in their iPod/music headsets and wear ear
protection when necessary. If others can hear
To learn which Tech Prep classes qualify for dual credit and
how to participate, contact your student’s counselor.
ACT: 2014-2015 Test Dates
Calendar on “Stagg’s College Homepage”
located under Guidance on the web. You
can also follow us on Twitter, @aasguidance,
for college-related updates, announcements,
and reminders and students can view the
large calendar of these visits in the commons
at Stagg.
Counselors Provide A
Variety Of Assistance
Due to liability concerns and
I.H.S.A. regulations, no student
will be allowed to participate
(including tryouts) in athletics
unless the on-line registration
process is completed and a
current physical is on file.
All student athletes must be registered online at our athletic website
@ www.athletics2000.com/stagg
(click on “Registration: at top of
page) or the registration website
@ https://stagg.8to18.com.
All students will need a current
physical on file. Freshmen can
use their entering school physical
for athletics as long as it is current
(13 months from date of examination). Students are welcome to
check the date of their physical at
the athletic office. They can pick
up a blank physical and return
their completed physical to the
athletic office.
In order to participate in Athletics
at Stagg, each athlete must
receive clearance from the Athletic
Director’s Office prior to tryouts.
To be cleared for participation, the
following items must be on file:
● A current sports physical
(Incoming freshman can use
their school physical).
● All parents of student athletes
must complete the on-line
registration @
https://stagg.8to18.com or
www.athletics2000.com/stagg
and select “Registration” at the
top of the website home page.
● All returning student athletes
must have passed 25 hours of
work in the semester prior to
competition.
Some coaches may have an
informational meeting one to two
weeks prior to tryouts. Please
check the daily announcements
for specifics.
If you have any questions, please
contact the athletic office at 708974-7439 or the coach directly.
During the month of September the guidance
counselors met with seniors individually to
present the framework of Senior tasks
regarding future plans. Students will be
informed about information regarding the
college application process, senior year time
line, financial aid information, scholarship
information, post high school planning,
opportunities at Moraine Valley Community
College, as well as other career related information by counselors in one-on-one meetings with all seniors. Counselors will detail
the college application process and assist
with individual post high school plans.
The Guidance Department provides assistance for students with developing their fouryear plan. Counselors will be meeting with
Freshmen students over the course of the
first semester to begin this process. “Career
Cruising” is a tool – ask your student to show
you their work on Career Cruising. Please
call or e-mail your student’s counselor if you
have any questions.
Parent access to step by step College/Career
information can be found on our website at:
https://district.d230.org/stagg/depts/guidance/default.aspx
Need Help Making Career
Choices?
College, Trade School, Apprenticeship?
What will your student do after graduation?
Career Cruising, a Web based exploration
and planning tool can help answer these
questions. For information about accessing
this site please call your child’s guidance
counselor. All Freshman have begun this
process.
Learning
Learning
“Understanding Lincoln” – Lifelong Learning at its Best
Social studies teacher Jennifer Baniewicz recently completed an online
graduate course associated with the highly regarded Gilder Lehrman
Institute and Dickinson University in Pennsylvania. The course,
Understanding Lincoln, focused on using primary sources to offer
insight into the mind of the iconic sixteenth president of the United
States. Led by Professor Matt Pinsker, the class “met” multiple times
on-line and featured special roundtable discussions with well-respected
historians and political experts.
political evolution of the Emancipation Proclamation and was created
using Storify and Prezi online platforms. Selected to be added to the
website, “Lincoln’s Writings,” that is part of Professor Pinsker’s House
Divided long-term research project, Jennifer’s work serves as an
exemplar of how to develop innovative lessons that blend the teaching
of critical historical research skills, the use of 21st century instructional
technology tools, and the meaningful alignment to key elements of the
Common Core reading standards.
Jennifer’s experiences in the course modeled the best that social
studies education has to offer students in both traditional and innovative
ways. The expertise acquired through primary source analysis, roundtable discussions, and the creation of a multimedia lesson extends
beyond her own learning and will benefit her students and colleagues in
the social studies department. Jennifer’s lesson project focused on the
Jennifer’s long-time interest in Abraham Lincoln and her passion for
teaching history made this a very fulfilling course to take. In addition,
Stagg’s social studies students and Jennifer’s fellow department
members are fortunate to now have access to a broader variety of U.S.
History primary sources and a sampling of new cloud-based software
that will enhance teaching and learning.
AP Scholar Awards
One hundred twelve students at Amos
Alonzo Stagg High School have earned AP
Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams.
The College Board’s Advanced Placement
Program (AP) provides motivated and
academically prepared students with the
opportunity to take rigorous college-level
courses while still in high school, and to earn
college credit advanced placement, or both for
successful performance on the AP exams.
About 18 percent of the nearly 1.8 million
students worldwide who took AP Exams
performed at a significantly high level to also
earn an AP Scholar Award.
At Amos Alonzo Stagg High School 2 students
qualified for the National AP Scholar Award
by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on
a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and
grades of 4 on eight or more of those exams.
These students are Rami Hourani and Daniel
Jamrozik.
Thirty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar with Distinction Award by earning
an average of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams
taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or
more of these exams. These students are
Nuha Abdelrahim, Sami Al Ahmadi, Melanie
Arnold, Gerardo Arriaga, Andrew Deangelis,
Dominic Demma, Ashley Dettlaff, Michaela
Dwyer, Alexandra Evangelopoulos, Kathryn
Gabel, Amber Girod, Nick Graves, Paulina
Guzek, Rami Hourani, Ragda Izar, Daniel
Jamrozik, Samuel Kearns, Andre Kohn,
Rebecca Krasny, Thomas Krumpolc, Justyna
Kukulka, Nicholas Mathis, Cortney McInerney,
Elizabeth Paris, Jonathan Renfree, Sean
Runyon, Aimee Schroeder, Dominic Singer,
Carson Smith, Michael Walsh, Haleigh
Weszelits, Patrick Wirry and Brendan Wolan.
Twenty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar with Honor Award by earning an
average of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams
taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or
more of these exams. These students are
Sandra Arriaga, Feross Atallah, Alexander
Bieniek, Kamaljit Braich, Paul Davenport, Anna
Dobrowlski, Connor Donahue, Serena George,
Nicholas Gogola, Katherine Johnson, Danielle
Klimas, Kelli Krown, Michalina Lassak,
Brandon Lunt, Hayley Madura, Ignas
Matelionis, Margaret Miller, Kylee Murray,
Kacper Ostalowski, Samiya Papa, Luke
Pappas, Elizabeth Poynton, Jillian Ryan and
Angelika Szczerba.
Fifty-four students qualified for the AP
Scholar Award by completing three or more
AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. The AP
Scholars are Omar Abuzir, John Adams, Sana
Alnajjar, Nashami Alqawasmi, Ardian Amiti,
Arhum Arshad, Nathiniel Christakis, Jinnie
Christensen, Evans Chronis, Natalie Cianci,
Carl Cuta, Samantha Delp, Adrienne DiFoggio,
Mia DiGiacomo, Daphne Mae Domingo,
Patrick Early, Brian Flanagan, Jessica Gbur,
Indre Geneviciute, Saad Ghani, Eleni Giffin,
Amal Hassoun, Dian Ivanov, Sean James,
Thomas Janas, Alan Jaski, Brendan Karr,
Nouredean Khrisat, Brittany Klimas, Sebastian
Kolpak, Claire Kredens, Allison Kumke, Eileen
Lennon, Marta Leshyk, Mark Lowisz, Angela
Magnuson, Ophelia Makis, Alexandria
McGurk, Maura Michels, Mesopotamia
Nowotarski, Sara Olson, Peter Para, Gianna
Petrelli, Sydney Phillips, Natalie Polk, Natalia
Rojszyk, Natalie Roth, Ajay Sivam, Adrian
Skwirut, Emily Smiarowski, Ava Thommen,
Kamila Wierzbiak and Nolan Winkelmann.
Of the 2014 school year’s recipients at Amos
Alonzo Stagg High School forty-six were
Juniors: John Adams, Sana Alnajjar, Sandra
Arriaga, Arhun Arshad, Alexander Bieniek,
Natalie Cianci, Nathaniel Christakis, Evans
Chronis, Paul Davenport, Andrew Deangelis,
Samantha Delp, Dominic Demma, Ashley
Detlaff, Mia DiGiacomo, Connor Donohue,
Michaela Dwyer, Brian Flanagan, Jessica
Gbur, Serena George, Saad Ghani, Eleni
Giffin, Nicholas Gogola, Sean James, Thomas
Janas, Brendan Karr, Nouredean Khrisat,
Brittany Klimas, Danielle Klimas, Andre Kohn,
Claire Kredens, Justyna Kukulka, Marta
Leshyk, Hayley Madura, Ignas Matelionis,
Alexandria McGurk, Luke Pappas, Gianna
Petrelli, Sydney Phillips, Elizabeth Poynton,
Jonathan Renfree, Natalia Rojszyk, Dominic
Singer, Carson Smith, Angelika Szczerba,
Kamila Wierzbiak, Nolan Winkelman and
Brandan Wolan.
Though more than 30 different college-level
courses and exams, AP provides motivated
and academically prepared students with the
opportunity to earn college credit or advanced
placement and stand out in the college admissions process. Each exam is developed by a
committee of college and university faculty and
AP teachers, ensuring that AP exams are
aligned with the same high standards expected by college faculty at some of the nation’s
leading liberal arts and research institutions.
More than 3,600 colleges in the United States
provide credit and/or placement for qualifying
exam grades. Research consistently shows
that AP students who score a 3 or higher on
AP exams (based on a scale from 1 to 5, with
5 being the highest) typically experience
greater academic success in college and higher graduation rates than students who do not
participate in AP.
The College Board is a not-for-profit membership organization whose mission is to connect
students to college success and opportunity.
Founded in 1900, the association is composed of
more than 5,600 schools, colleges, universities,
and other educational organizations. Each year,
the College Board serves seven million students
and their parents, 23,000 high schools and
3,800 colleges through major programs and
services in college readiness, college admissions, guidance, assessment, financial aid,
enrollment, and teaching and learning. Among
its best-known programs are the SAT, the
PSAT/NMSQT, and the Advanced Placement
Program (AP). The College Board is committed
to the principles of excellence and equity, and
that commitment is embodied in all of its programs, services, activities and concerns.
Reminder! Make Your Appointments
for Parent-Teacher Conferences
Deans’ Office
Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled to be held on Thursday, October 16 from
12 noon until 8 p.m. This is a great opportunity to discuss with the teacher how your
student is performing within a curriculum and communicate face to face ways to work
on skill deficiencies.
Parents are reminded that per state law and for the
safety of our students and staff, cell phone usage while
driving on campus is prohibited. Additionally, please
observe the painted pedestrian crosswalks to ensure
that students can cross safely and directional arrows.
Scheduling an appointment with the teachers you would like to meet is easy and can
be accomplished in one of two ways. The format more convenient to your personal
schedule is the online scheduler.
Online scheduling will be available from the school’s home page at
district.d230.org/stagg:
Friday, October 10 at 9 a.m. through Wednesday, October 15 at noon.
Phone in scheduling to 708-974-7400 will ONLY be available:
Friday, October 10 and Monday, October 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on each day
Phone requests for assistance with scheduling appointments
will only be taken on these days.
Links to the online website will be on each school’s homepage along with step-by-step
instructions that will walk you through the process. If you need assistance with the
online process, please contact the school directly at 708-974-7400.
First Stagg Student to Earn
MOS Certification
Computer Applications student, Jacob Puente, was the
first student in Ms. Kuypers’ class to earn his Microsoft
Office Specialist (MOS) certification in Microsoft Word.
Students in this class work in programs certified by
Microsoft to help train students how to use their
programs. In the Computer Applications class,
students will be working towards certification in Word,
Excel, and Power Point.
Parking Lot Safety
Street Crossing Safety
Students are reminded to always cross the streets
surrounding Stagg (including Roberts Road and
111th Street) at crosswalks. The Palos Hills Police
Department may issue a jaywalking ticket to anyone
who does not follow the correct procedure.
Attendance Reminders
To call in an absence please call 974-7500. We have
24-hour voice mail. If your child is running late, call
and let us know. Provide your student’s name, ID
number, length of absence and your name.
If your student needs to leave school early, call 974-7500
in the morning so an off-campus pass can be issued.
Remind your student to pick up his or her off-campus
pass in the Deans’ office immediately upon arriving
at school. The student will show the pass to the
classroom teacher to get permission to leave the
classroom. After the student visits his or her locker the
student will leave through the North door (N-1) next to
the theater on 111th Street. Parents can wait in front
of school for their student to walk out to the car.
Temporary Parking Passes
The teacher says they work in this class and that there
are times you might not even know the students are there, they are so quiet and
focused! Students work at their own pace and take the certification test when they
feel they are ready to. Many of the students are already on the verge of attempting to
certify in Microsoft Word. Once they do, they will move on to work in Excel.
Stagg SSA
Student leaders from a variety
of student organizations
comprise the Principal and
Superintendent Student
advisory. These students
represent Stagg High School
in many of the decisions and
discussions that affect students
from across the District.
Students on this advisory
committee are: Nora Atallah,
Asmaa Amara, Grace
Garbrecht, Sireen Hamarshah,
Nora Klein, Luke Pappas,
Emily Peterson, Gianna
Petrelli, Gabriella Rodriquez,
Bassel Shanab, Sarah Snell,
Jennifer Stamos, Goda
Stelnionyte, Alyline Villegas,
and Julie Zielinski.
In order to accommodate families who may need a
one day pass for their student to park, temporary
parking passes are issued by the Deans’ Office. To
obtain a temporary pass, parents can call any time
in advance to reserve a parking spot. The cost of a
temporary spot is $3.00 per day. Please remember
there are a limited number of spots and students will
not be allowed to park without a parent phone call.
Consequences for parking without permission may
include three hour detentions, tickets, or tows.
● Each student may park up to 5 times per semester
● Call 974-7493 to access a 24 hour voicemail to
reserve a spot
● In the message giving your student permission to park,
please include the student’s name, ID number, and
date for parking
● All calls must be received before the student has
arrived to campus
● The student can pick up the pass at the Deans’ Office
any time prior to 7:45 a.m. on the day the spot is
needed
● When picking up the pass, please pull the car to the
curb (not blocking traffic) by the E-2 entrance
Student Tardies
Punctual arrival to school and class is expected of
every student. Students who arrive tardy to class miss
instruction time and interrupt lessons in progress.
Please make sure that your child arrives to school with
ample time to visit their locker, use the restroom, and
arrive to class. If a student has accumulated three
tardies during a semester, you will receive an email
informing you of this. If the student accumulates five
or more tardies, they will need to serve consequences
from the Deans’ Office and may see privileges suspended if the tardies are excessive.
Principal’s Message
What’s Inside
Charger Pride:
OCTOBER 2014
PAGE 2
Principal’s Message
PAGE 3
Learning
Parent-Teacher Conferences
First Stagg Student to Earn
MOS Certification
Deans’ Office
PAGE 4
Guidance
National Exams
Tech-Prep Programs Provide
Dual Credit
PAGE 5
Guidance
Counselors Provide A Variety
Of Assistance
Moraine Valley Community
College Career Night
PAGE 6
Learning
“Understanding Lincoln” –
Lifelong Learning at its Best
AP Scholar Awards
PAGE 7
Learning / Community
Involvement
Learning / Community Involvement
Dear Parents,
School safety is always the number one priority here at Stagg High School and District
230. We recognize that in order for instruction to take place and be effective, students
must feel that they cared for and their safety is important to the adults entrusted with
their care. There are many ways that Stagg High School works to provide a safe environment for students, but we also recognize that parents and students play a vital role
in maintaining a safe school. No one group can do it alone, we must all work together.
The following are safety tips and requirements that we ask all parents and students to
follow while on our campus:
Safety Coming to and from School
● All students should be dropped off/picked up on school grounds
either on the north drive or along the east side of the school building.
● Students should NEVER be dropped off on the street or street side,
this includes on 111th and on Roberts Road.
● Students should ALWAYS cross at the crosswalk at 111th and Roberts Road,
this includes students who use the parking lot at New Beginnings Church.
● There are no U-Turns on Roberts Road.
● Students should NEVER run across 111th Street in front of
the school building. The Palos Hills Police Department will be
ticketing students who do not cross at the crosswalk.
● Students must have school IDs to get on school buses.
● Drivers are not to use cellphones in school parking lots.
Medications and Health Concerns
● Any and all prescription/over the counter medication
must be kept in the nurse’s office with a doctor’s prescription.
● Students may not carry prescription or over-the-counter
medications on their person or in their locker while at school.
● The nurse’s office must be made aware of any medical condition
that requires assistance in moving about the building.
School Building Security
● Students are required to have their IDs with them at all times.
● During school hours, all visitors must enter through the North Door Security Station.
● If you would like to meet with a staff member or administration, you must have an
appointment, please make sure you arrange for an appointment ahead of time.
● Remind your child that they should NEVER let any student or adult into the building.
● Contact our Deans Office if you have any security concerns.
● Stagg High School has an Anonymous Tip Line that is checked daily.
The number is 708-974-7400 EXT 7222.
School safety is everyone’s business and we welcome the partnership with staff,
students, and parents in making Stagg High School a safe learning environment!
Go Chargers!
Eric A. Olsen
Principal
Music Department
Parent Group News
PAGE 8
Noteworthy Band News
September has been a busy month for the
Marching Chargers, with performances at
football games, competitions, and parades.
October will prove to be just as busy, if not
even more challenging!
The Marching Chargers will perform at four
competitions* in October.
October 11 ISU Marching Band
Championships/MahometSeymour Marching Festival
October 18 Illini Marching Band
Championships
October 25 Downers Grove South Marching
Mustang Music Bowl
*These competitions are all day events, with
high schools from all across the state of Illinois
merging onto the same field to compete! Our
students arrive early at school to rehearse on
Saturday morning, and upon arrival at the
venue, rehearse again prior to competition.
Afterwards, the students watch the remainder
of schools and await the awards ceremony,
prior to departing for home around 9 p.m.
The Marching Chargers invite everyone to
attend these competitions and cheer them on!
Marching Band Jamboree
The Jamboree was a tremendous success,
and was well received by all who attended.
ATHLETIC BOOSTERS
Homecoming is Oct 3rd!!! Come to the
concession stand during the football games
and enjoy something special.
Athletic Booster Club Fall Fundraiser is
Saturday, November 8th at Trio in Palos
Hills from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. $25.00 per person
includes buffet, silent auction items, raffles,
and supporting your athletes! Tickets will be
sold during all football games, in school (see
Betsy Garbrecht) and will be sold at the door.
MUSIC BOOSTERS
Happy Autumn - your Music Boosters
have had a great start to the season!!
Our Marching Band Jamboree was held on
September 13th, with 20 bands visiting to
perform in competition. Our Marching
Chargers and Color Guard put on a terrific
show in exhibition. It was an awesome day
and a huge success. This could not have been
possible without the help of our wonderful,
hard-working volunteers. Our heartfelt thanks
go out to all who came out that day to support
our Band, Choir and Guard students!!
Mark your calendars for the annual Fall Craft
Show. This year's dates are November 15th
and 16th. If you'd like to volunteer to help
with this event, please e-mail Karen Lencioni
at [email protected]. There will be a wide
array of crafters and vendors there to satisfy
your holiday shopping needs. Student
musicians and vocalists will be performing as
well, so come on by to support our students
and have a great time!
School Calendar
Culinary 3 students “Cake Bake Off.”
Our next Boosters' meeting will be held
Tuesday, October 21st at 7 p.m. in Room 605.
Special thanks go to our Music Booster
organization and all of our many volunteers
who put in so much time to make our
Jamboree happen!
Other important news in October includes the
IMEA (Illinois Music Educators Association) auditions, which take place on Tuesday, Oct. 14th.
Initially, students are selected by the band and
choir directors to audition for their district,
which is District 1. Stagg falls under the
purview of District 1, which is the largest and
most competitive of the nine districts in the
state of Illinois. District I encompasses a large
portion of the southwest suburbs and the
entire city of Chicago. As many as 2,000 students compete for only 600 coveted spots in
the IMEA District I band, choir, orchestra and
jazz bands.
Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony and
Marching Chargers will showcase their talents
in the Fall Band Showcase. On Wednesday,
October 8th, the Stagg Choirs will put on their
Preview Choir Concert. Both concerts take
place in the Performing Arts Center beginning
at 7 p.m. and are free of charge.
Good luck to all our band and choir students!
Be sure to visit the band and choir websites:
www.staggbands.org and www.staggchoirs.org
Band and choir students who will be participating have been earnestly practicing for their
auditions. If selected, the students perform at
the District Festival, and from there can be
selected for the All State Festival. Selection
into the IMEA is quite a prestigious honor.
October also begins the first of the four formal
concerts presented by the choir and band programs. On Monday, October 20th, members of
the Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band,
The finishing touches were placed on the
north entrance. Our railings are adorned
with Chargers welcoming the students and
the community to Stagg High School.
All are welcome to attend!! We'd love to see
you there.
includes a gift and the chance for seniors to
apply for a scholarship.
For the Music Boosters, Lisa Gonzini, President
Parents can sign up by e-mailing
[email protected]. For more information,
click on “Stagg Community Organization” under
the “Parent Organizations” tab on Stagg’s web
page at www.D230.org. Information also is
available at http://staggsco.weebly.com.
SCO
Stagg Community Organization Starts Strong
Stagg’s parent booster club, SCO, would
like to thank all of the new members who
attended the first meeting on September 8.
The turnout filled room 605! Thank you also
to those who bought tickets for the fall raffle.
The winners, drawn September 5, have been
notified.
Next month’s meeting, will be 6:30 p.m.
on Monday, October 13, and will
feature speaker Mary Stelter, who
will discuss service learning hours.
All graduates of District 230 must
complete 24 service hours, and Mrs.
Stelter will talk about the procedures
students should follow to ensure they
are eligible for graduation and other
levels of community service.
All meetings include a report by
Principal Eric Olsen or another Stagg
administrator on activities of the past
month and upcoming activities, as well
as taking questions from members.
Anyone with a connection to Stagg,
especially parents, is invited to join
the SCO to voice opinions and work
together to promote positive change.
The organization’s mission is to make
a difference in the lives of students,
teachers, faculty and staff at Stagg.
The membership fee is $15, which
The SCO welcomes ideas for future speakers.
Meetings generally are the second Monday of
each month. All are welcome!
A M O S A L O N Z O S TA G G H I G H S C H O O L
111 th Street and Roberts Road
Palos Hills, IL 60465
(708) 974-7400
http://stagg.d230.org
Charger Pride is
published by the
Consolidated
High School
District 230
School Board.
PRESORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 11
ORLAND PARK
Rick Nogal, President
Patrick O'Sullivan, Vice President
Kathy Quilty, Secretary
Susan Dalton
A M O S A L O N Z O S TA G G H I G H S C H O O L N E W S L E T T E R • OCTOBER 2014
Melissa Gracias
Kate Murphy-Peterson
Tony Serratore
Dr. James M. Gay, Superintendent
Eric Olsen, Principal
"An equal opportunity employer"
Printed on Recycled Paper
30% Total Recycled Fiber
October At A Glance
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2O14-15 School Calendar
Late Start
Powderpuff Game
Phi Alpha Theta Induction, 7 p.m.
Education Committee Meeting, 7 p.m.
Homecoming Football Game vs. Joliet Central
Homecoming Dance, 7 p.m.
Underclass Recognition Ceremony, 1st hour
Financial Aid Night, 7 p.m.
Late Start
Moraine Valley College Night, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Choir Concert, 7 p.m.
Senior Class Large Group Photo, 3rd hour
Online scheduler OPENS at 9 a.m. for
Parent-Teacher Conference appointments
Phone in assistance for Parent-Teacher Conference
appointments, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Phone in assistance for Parent-Teacher Conference
appointments, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Stagg Community Organization Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Student Services Committee Meeting, 7 p.m.
Late Start
NHS Induction Ceremony, 7 p.m.
Online scheduler CLOSES at 12 noon for
Parent-Teacher Conference appointments
Parent-Teacher Conferences, 12 noon to 8 p.m.
(no student attendance)
Columbus Day, no school
PSAT at Stagg, 8 a.m.
Fall Band Showcase Concert, 7 p.m.
Market Day
Music Booster Meeting, 7 p.m.
Late Start
ACT Test at Stagg
Late Start
Board of Education Meeting, Andrew H.S., 7 p.m.
Keep Calm and Take FACS,
We Have Your Back!
Students enrolled in the FACS classes this fall enjoyed the 1st annual
department picnic on Wednesday, September 17th. The Culinary 3
students prepared the desserts and while the students ate their lunch,
various FACS teachers talked about the necessary life skills that are
taught in their courses. Most of the students soon figured out that
learning the FACS of life is PRICELESS.
Homecoming at Stagg High School is an exciting time for students,
staff, alumni, and the community. It’s even more special for our staff
who are alumni! Pictured above are alumni who made their way
through the halls as students and now lead our classroom as teachers.
Stagg Student Council sold a record number of tickets
for this Homecoming themed, “Around the World.”
A CONSOLIDATED HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 230 SCHOOL
THOUGHT MEANING ACTION