Golden Eagle Gazette
Parent Newsletter of Fleming Island High School
FALL
October /
November
2015
Preparing tomorrow’s leaders, today.
I
N
S
I
D
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Class News
page 2
Bright Futures
page 4
Senior Info
page 6
Grad Bash
page 7
Dear Parents, Students, and Fleming Island Community,
It is hard to believe that we are into the month of October and have
completed the first quarter. All of the fall athletic teams are enjoying tremendous success, and the winter sports such as basketball, soccer, and wrestling
are about to start their seasons. The band has been practicing hard, sounding
great, and preparing for their competition season. The band traveled to Nease
High School on October 17th and won Grand Champion. The band will be
hosting a competition here at Fleming Island on Saturday, October 24th.
National Merit Scholarship Corporation recently announced that Fleming Island High School has eight National Merit commended students! These students are Andrew Francis, Macy Gardella, Hanna Gibson, Shelby Hackett,
Jacob Porter, Marissa Reed, Collin West, and Megan Wynn. The Fleming
Island High School family is very proud of their accomplishments and congratulations to all of these students.
As you know, some courses require “End-of-Course” exams. These courses
are Algebra 1, Geometry, Biology, and American History for the 2015-2016
school year. If you have a student that is enrolled in any of these courses and
have any questions about the exams, please feel free to contact our guidance
department at (904) 541-2076.
We are off to an outstanding school year; let’s keep the momentum rolling.
Thank you to the faculty, staff, students, parents and community for all you do
for Fleming Island High School.
Sincerely,
Academy News page 9
Thomas E. Pittman
NJROTC News page 10
Principal
ATTENTION:
Fleming Island High School will no
longer be printing report cards for distribution. Report cards have been posted to
the Parent and Student FOCUS portals.
Please be aware that the report cards are
available through their FOCUS accounts.
The end of year report card will be the
only one printed and mailed.
If a student or parent is not able to access
their FOCUS account Guidance will
print a hard
copy for them.
Thank you for
your assistance.
Parent
Portal
The Talon Yearbook 2016
Yearbook prices are as follows:
$65 8/28 - 11/2
$70 11/3 – 1/11
$75 1/12 – 3/1
$80 3/2 – 4/29
$85 when they arrive & after pre-orders have been distributed
Senior Yearbook Ads The final day for senior ads is 11/5.
There is now a $25 late fee for any ad turned in. Visit the yearbook website at http://fih.oneclay.net/yearbook-information.html
for the order form and ad templates.
1/8 page $75
1/4 page $150
1/2 page $225
Full page $375
Golden Eagle Gazette
FRESHMAN NEWS
The Freshmen Class of 2019 is proud to announce its officers for this school year:
Ashley Byrd: President
Mackenzie Meagher: Vice President
Megan Gillan: Student Council Rep.
Sara Kissane: Treasurer
Ileana Lago: Secretary
Jack Lyons: Student Ambassador
Dylan Pittman: Student Ambassador
Class activities are open to all freshmen who would like to
participate. Looking forward to some fun times!
See Mr Bright in Room 079 with any questions!!
SOPHOMORE NEWS
The class of 2018 is beginning the 2015-2016 school year
with a great start! The Sophomore class officers have been
busy selling class t-shirts. There will be extra t-shirts available in Mrs. Lowe’s room (222) for $15.
We have a lot of exciting plans in the works for this year
with everything from community service projects to school
and class spirit project. We are in the process of planning a
service project for the near future… stay tuned!
Ginny Lowe
Sophomore Class Sponsor
JUNIOR NEWS
Please see Men's Wearhouse for all formal needs as they
give a good deal back to our school.
Long sleeve Junior Class shirts will be on pre sale during
lunch 3, 4 & 5 from Monday, November 2nd through
Thursday, November 5th. Shirts are $ 20.00.
Junior vs Senior volleyball tournament will be held on
February 25th. SIGN UPS will be after we return from
Christmas Break on Thursday and Friday, January 7th and
8th.
SENIOR NEWS
Seniors will be voting on Superlatives in October. Also, the
senior class will be doing a community service project at
Seamark Ranch toward the end of the first semester.
Voting Results for 2015-2016 Senior Class:
Senior Flower: Orchid
Senior Motto: Go confidently in the direction of your
dreams. Live the life you imagined. -Henry David Thoreau
Senior Song: “It’s Time” –Imagine Dragons
FALL October/November 2015
Page 2
Media
Center
News
The Fleming Island High School Media Center has been busy this
fall. There are lots of opportunities for reading and learning for everyone! The 9th grade students were oriented to the Media Center with
a QR (Quick Response) Code Scavenger Hunt. Students learned
about policies, procedures and the various areas of the Media Center
using hidden QR codes and QR scanners on their cell phones. The
Media Specialists have also collaborated with the content area teachers to conduct various classes.
We are celebrating Teen Read Week this year during the week of
October 26-30th. This is a time to celebrate reading for fun and to
encourage teens to take advantage of reading in all its forms--books,
magazines, eBooks, and audiobooks and to become regular library
users.
We have an exciting week planned. One of the highlights will be a
“virtual visit” from a nationally known author, Patty Blount. She is
the author of many popular young adult books including Send, Some
Boys, TMI, and Nothing Left to Burn. Please join us on Monday,
October 26 from 1:50-2:30 pm in the Media Center for her interesting
visit via the internet. We are also spreading the love of reading and
literacy by taking some of our students to Thunderbolt Elementary to
read to those students. This is a great way to earn some volunteer
hours. There will be a Book Character Pumpkin Decorating Contest
with judging on October 30th. Stop by the Media Center for more
details.
The Parent/Faculty/Community book group, Cover to Cover, started
the year discussing the new Harper Lee book Go Set a Watchman. We will be meeting the second Tuesday of the month. At the
October 13th meeting, we discussed Americanah by Chimamanda
Adichie. The next meetings will be on November 10th to discuss
Church of Marvels by Leslie Parry. We would like to invite all parents and community members to participate. Contact the Media Center staff for more information.
“Cookie Chat” is the book discussion group for students. The first
meeting will be October 29 to discuss a scary book or mystery of
your choice. We plan to meet on a regular basis to discuss books of
interest to the students. Also, a Teen Advisory Board has been created to help to direct Media Center focus. The first meeting was in
September to discuss strategies to involve more students in reading/
literacy and Media Center activities. Students who are interested in
being involved should contact the Media Center staff.
We will be starting a reading challenge in November. The purpose is
to encourage and promote reading across the content areas by increasing the students’ ability to cite specific evidence to support thinking
by reading informational text. Various nonfiction science and social
studies books will be available in the Media Center for the students to
read. A graphic organizer will be filled out when the book is
completed and there will be rewards for participation and for the top
readers.
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October/November 2015
Page 3
College Placement Tests
It is recommended that all students begin taking the SAT
and/or the ACT in the spring of their junior year. We also
encourage students to take the Practice ACT and the
PSAT as early as their freshman year, as this allows the
opportunity to take an actual assessment without it being
on your record. After the test, students keep the test booklet and get a solution key. Within a few days, students
receive a complete analysis that pinpoints areas of weakness to help focus improvement efforts. To register
through the mail, you can pick up registration packets in
the Guidance Office.
SAT FIHS Code is CEEB #101-798
Register online at www.collegeboard.com
Test Dates
Registration Deadlines
October 3, 2015
September 2, 2015
November 7, 2015
October 1, 2015
December 5, 2015
November 6, 2015
January 23, 2016
December 25, 2015
March 5, 2016
January 29, 2016
May 7, 2016
April 8, 2016
June 4, 2016
May 6, 2016
ACT Register online at www.actstudent.org
Test Dates
Registration Deadlines
September 12, 2015
August 7, 2015
October 24, 2015
September 18, 2015
December 12, 2015
November 6, 2015
February 6, 2016
January 8, 2016
April 9, 2016
March 4, 2016
June 11, 2016
May 6, 2016
Register in Guidance for:
Practice ACT
September 5, 2015
PSAT
October 14, 2015
Interested in
becoming a
VOLUNTEER?
Do you know of someone with extra time on
their hands (maybe a retiree) and a willingness
to help out? No experience needed … we will
train you. We are always in need of an extra
pair of hands to help out in many different
ways. Your time commitment could be a onetime only situation, or it could be a few hours
each week, or one day each week … you let us
know what you can spare. For more information about volunteering at Fleming Island
High School, email: Tracey Finley at [email protected] or call 336-7673.
For the second year in a row Fleming Island High School has
been granted a confidential Military Family Life Counselor
(MFLC), a licensed mental health professional placed in our
school by the DoDEA. MFLC’s have been placed in schools
around the country to provide free confidential, non-medical,
solution-focused, problem-solving counseling services, support,
and education to service men, women, and their families. FIHS
Military families should be watching the mail for information
about the MFLC program, and a consent letter with the option to
authorize or decline services. Our MFLC can be reached at
(904) 336-7648, to answer any questions
parents might have.
REMINDER:
IF YOU LIKE IT, LOCK IT!
School Resource Officer, Deputy Hawkins
2015-2016ATHLETICPASSORDERFORM
OVER $400 VALUE! Only $45 Students and $55 Adults!
Buy your Athletic Pass now for the 2014-2015 school year! The
pass includes admission to ALL home games* — Varsity and JV!
Fill out the bottom of this form and return to the attendance office.
and
w
o
n
t
Get i e big!
sav
Drop off (or mail)
this completed form
with check or money
order to Fleming
Island High School.
Name: ________________________________________
FIHS Student (check one)? YES _______ NO _______
Address: _____________________________________
Phone #: ____________________________________
*Athletic Passes are not valid for all FHSAA sanctioned events. All sales
are final, no refunds.
Fleming Island High School
2233 Village Square Parkway
Fleming Island, FL 32003
(904) 336-7500
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Page 4
BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP FOR SENIORS
2015-2016
Bright Futures Changes
Do you know that the testing requirements for a Bright Futures Scholarship have increased drastically?
Effective with the class of 2014 and thereafter the testing requirements are:
Florida Medallion Scholarship
26 ACT Composite Score
or 1170 SAT Critical Reading and Math
Florida Academic Scholarship
29 ACT Composite Score
or 1290 SAT Critical Reading and Math
These are difficult scores to obtain so plan on taking the tests a few times and possibly doing some type
of online or private test preparation. Please have your child consult with their Guidance Counselor for the latest
information. Seniors will complete their Bright Futures Application in December. Details will be announced to
the students at that time.
All seniors who hope to receive a Bright Futures Scholarship must complete the application online. Ideally, it is best to complete it during the time period of December 8 -20th. Please go to
www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org. Select state grants, scholarships and applications and apply here. Select
programs offered to view detailed state programs information. When you have viewed the different programs,
return to the previous page and click on “Initial State Student Application”. This is your Bright Futures application and will take you a few minutes to complete. Please be careful and thorough! You must apply during your
last year in high school before graduation or you forfeit all future eligibility for a Bright Future Scholarship.
You may apply prior to meeting all requirements.
We ask that Fleming Island High School seniors apply during this December time frame so that they
may be evaluated early and receive notification from Bright Futures via email in March/April. Please be sure to
have your social security card with you as you complete this application.
Community Service Hours Requirements
Eligibility Requirement
(Must be completed before Graduation)
30 Hours – Gold Seal
75 Hours – Medallion
100 Hours – Academic Scholars
3.0 GPA, weighted; Minimum score on SAT, ACT, or PERT
SAT-Critical Reading-440; Math-440
ACT-English-17; Reading-18; Math-19
PERT-Reading-104; Writing-99; Math 113
3.0 GPA, weighted; 1170 SAT-combined; 26-ACT-composite
3.5 GPA, weighted; 1290 SAT-combined 29 ACT-composite
For a complete eligibility listing of the requirements for Bright Futures Scholarship, please go to the above listed website.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO APPLY UNTIL DECEMBER 7, 2015
Golden Eagle Gazette
From the
Nurse
Special thanks to all the
parents who allowed
your child to participate
in out Healthy Schools Flu Clinic. A
little prevention goes a long way in
keeping our students healthy and in
attendance during flu season.
Kudos to all the students who made
our fall blood drive a success! For
those who were unable to donate due
to time constraints, we appreciate
your efforts as well and look forward
to seeing you at our blood drive next
spring.
Parents, many of our students with
chronic medical conditions still have
not turned in their Medical Management and Medication Authorization
forms. These need to be turned in as
soon as possible so that we might
notify faculty of their specific needs.
They do not roll over from year to
year and need to be updated each
school year. If you did not receive
them or have misplaced them, please
contact me and I will make sure to
get them to you.
The clinic has been seeing many students this year with dizziness, dehydration, and low blood sugars. The
American Dietetic Association states
that children who eat breakfast and
stay hydrated have better concentration, problem solving skills, hand-eye
coordination, alertness, and are less
likely to tire during the school
day. Please make sure your student
is getting breakfast each morning. If
unable to eat at home, our cafeteria
offers many breakfast and drink
choices and is open from 6:45 to
7:15.
If you need to contact Nurse Allen
for any reason, please call 336-7507.
Clinic hours are 6:30-2:30.
FALL October / November 2015
Page 5
College Entrance Examination Testing
A Recommended Guide for Sudents
The following is a proven formula for preparing students to be successful on the college entrance
examinations. There is no right or wrong as to taking the tests, the only wrong is to not take the
tests. College admission is very competitive and the more prepared you are as a student, the better
your chances of acceptance.
Challenge yourself with as many advanced Math and English classes as you are capable of
succeeding in each year of high school!
9th Grade: Take a Practice ACT Test in August, it is given each year and any grade level
student may take it. You are also welcome to try the PSAT for practice in October.
10th Grade: Take the PSAT Test in October (it is free during school). Take a Practice ACT in
February, and if you have completed Algebra II, you might want to take a real ACT and
or ACT in June.
11th Grade: Take the PSAT in October, it is a scholarship competition for Juniors (and only
counts for National Merit Scholarship competition in the Junior year.) Take an ACT Test
with writing and an SAT Test in December. Take the tests for the second time in May or
June.
12th Grade: Review your results, apply to colleges early (August/September) and finalize college plans with your Guidance Counselor. If needed, take the tests a final time in September and October in order for it to count for early college admission notification.
There are many free and online preparation classes at some of the following locations: act.org,
collegeboard.com, maxthetest.com, ineedapencil.com, number2.com free test prep, and
gleimpsat.com. Kaplan Test Prep, The Princeton Review, UNF, Sylvan Learning, and Jantzi Test
Prep are just a few of the local test prep sources for actual classes.
Advanced Placement (AP) vs. Dual Enrollment
We in Guidance, are often asked the question which of the above is better?
Which do the colleges count more? Which is more beneficial to my student and his or her
needs? The answer in a nutshell is both! The two programs provide excellent opportunities for students to earn and accumulate college credit while still in high school and many
students do combinations.
The Advanced Placement program is sponsored by The College Board (the
people who make the SAT College Entrance Examination) and consists of a rigorous academic class that is weighted on a 5.0 scale. In May, the student takes a national standard
exam in the subject area and finds out the results online in July. The exam is scored on a
scale of 1 – 5, with 5 being the highest. If a student scores at least a 3, they receive college
credit and a 5 guarantees them credit for two college classes. There are limits to the
amount of college credits they can earn in each subject area and the student should consult
with the college they hope to attend as well as their Guidance Counselor.
The Dual Enrollment Program is sponsored by St. Johns River State College (or any local
State College, formerly known as Community Colleges). Students take classes here on the
FIHS Campus or the St. Johns Campus. The earliest opportunity to take these D.E. (Dual
Enrollment) classes are the summer between the 10th and 11th grade years. A student
MUST have an unweighted 3.0 grade point average and have taken the College Placement,
SAT, ACT or PERT Postsecondary Education Readiness) tests to be eligible. Different
subjects may have additional qualifying requirements or pre-requisite subjects. A grade of
C or better enables the student to earn college credit at any Florida State College or University. The accumulation of at least 60 credit hours during high school may enable the
student to earn an A.A. or A.S. two year college degree. The program is funded by the
Clay County School Board and the completed subjects are also weighted on a 5.0 scale. It
is also considered a rigorous academic program and most colleges count all credits and
subjects as having started a college grade point average!
Please note that the decision as to what to take rests with the students, parents
and college for which they are preparing. The most highly selective colleges and universities may recognize the courses (AP or DE), but yet demand that they take their school’s
prescribed courses regardless (examples, our Service Academies, Ivy Leagues, MIT, Stanford, etc.). If you plan to attend college in Florida, Dual Enrollment might be a better deal
for you; if you are looking to go outside the state of Florida, AP might be better for you.
In conclusion, BOTH programs are good, have their advantages, and are looked upon
favorably for college admission.
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
FIHS Year At A Glance
All test dates are in italics
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
4
5
7
16
17
1
9
12
14
15
7
8
9
11
16
23-27
16,17,18
16,17,18
18
21– 1/1
4
5
6
7
18
18
15
14-18
21
1
4
7
8
23
6
TBD
TBD
23,24,25
27
30
1,2,3
1,2,3
3
11
College Night, Ridgeview High, 6:30 PM
Practice ACT
Labor Day (no school)
Interim Reports
Volunteer Meet & Greet, 8:30-9:30 AM
SAC Meeting, 2:00 PM, Media Center
End of 1st Grading Period
Planning Day (no school for students)
PSAT Test
Report Cards
Homecoming Parade & Gold Rush, 5:00 PM
Homecoming & Senior Night Game, 7:30PM
Homecoming Dance, 7:30-10:30 PM
Veteran’s Day (no school)
Interim Reports
Thanksgiving Holidays (no school)
First Semester Exams
Early Dismissal, 10:45 AM
End of 2nd Grading Period
Christmas / New Year’s Holidays (no school)
Planning Day (no school for students)
In-service Day (no school for students)
Students return to school
Report Cards
Martin Luther King Day (no school)
Interim Reports
President’s Day (no school)
Spring Break (no school)
Students Return to School
End of 3rd Grading Period
Planning Day/Fair Day (no school)
Report Cards
Grad Bash
Prom
Interim Reports
AP Exams
AICE Testing
Senior Exams
Graduation
Memorial Day (no school)
Final Exams (Grades 9,10,11)
Early Dismissal, 10:45 AM
Last Day for Students
Report Cards (mailed)
Page 6
S E N I O R DAT E S
Class of 2016
Snapshot of Senior Dates & Fees
(Fees are approximate and optional except for Cap & Gown)
August/September
Senior Portraits (Leonard’s 800-874-0494) $25-400
College Night 9/10 at Orange Park High School 6:30-8pm
Senior Panoramic Portrait 9/24- 7:30am - Gym $20
Athletic Event Tickets $5—$7
(or season pass for $45/$55 ON SALE NOW!)
Parking Pass – ON SALE NOW! $15
College Application Fees $20-50
Yearbook Orders –
8/12-8/31 $60 ~ 9/1 – 11/2 $65 ~ 11/3 – 1/11 $70 ~ 1/12 – 3/1 $75 ~ 3/2
$80 & yearbooks go off sale until they come in. The cost will be $85 after
preorders have been distributed in May.
Baby Pictures due no later than 9/17 Pictures will NOT be returned.
First/Last Name of student printed on back. Can be emailed to
[email protected]
Senior Quotes due no later than 9/17 (legibly written on 3X5” card with First/
Last Name on top, less than 20 words can be emailed to [email protected]
Senior Meetings for Presentation of Announcements/Cap & Gown on 9/23
Girls 7:30am/Boys 8:40am - Cafetorium
Order Graduation Announcements 9/28 & 9/29
during lunch in café $35-$200 (Deposit due at order $70)
Order Cap and Gown 9/28 & 9/29 during lunch in café $60 deposit due on
order day (Balance/Money due in spring)
October
Senior Yearbook Ads due by 10/8 After that there is a $25 late fee.
Absolutely no ads will be sold after 11/5.
1/8 page $75 – 1/4 page $150 – 1/2 page $225 – Full page $375
**Senior Make-Up Pics for Yearbook by appt. only 10/13 – if you wait until
this day, you cannot choose which pose goes into the yearbook, the photographer chooses. LAST possible day to have pic in yearbook!
Goldrush – 10/7 Parade 5:30pm & PepRally 7pm Stadium
Homecoming Game 10/8 – 7:00pm - Stadium
Homecoming Dance 10/9 7:30pm-10:30pm Cafetorium
Tickets:estimated $20 per person (MUST PURCHASE IN ADVANCE )
November/December
Transcript (first one free) $3
January
Grad Bash Ticket Sales 1/11 thru 1/15 during lunches estimated $145-$150
pending final bus costs
(must pre-pay; not for sale in April; NON-TRANSFERRABLE; NONREFUNDABLE)
March
Grad Bash Participants Meetings 3/31
Sr. Girls 7:30am, Sr. Boys 8:45am – Café
April
Grad Announcements & Cap and Gown Distribution
Early April (exact date TBD) all lunches in cafe
(if you still owe money, it is due at this time)
Grad Bash @ Universal Orlando 4/8 (ticket purchased in January)
Prom 4/23 – Herbert Univ Center @ UNF 8-11:00pm estimated
$60 per person
May
Senior vs Staff Basketball Game May 5 7pm Gym $5 in advance/$6 at door
Senior Awards Ceremony 5/12 - 7pm - Cafetorium
Senior Week
5/16 - 5/20 Activities tba, 5/19 Swim Party $10
Baccalaureate (student organized)
Senior Exams Periods 5 & 6 on 5/23, periods 3 & 4 on 5/24 & Periods 1 & 2
on 5/25
Mandatory Graduation Practices 5/26 & 5/27 7:45am Stadium
Senior Breakfast 5/27 - 9:30am – Fleming Island Plantation Club House
Graduation 5/27- 8pm - Stadium
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Page 7
Fashion Design
News
The Principles of
Fashion Design
Class (2nd year
students) made
fleece socks using
a Serger sewing
machine. A
Serger sewing machine uses four
threads at once, all
threaded a different way onto the
machine and two
needles. These
machines are used
for stretch seams such as a knit fabric and allows
for a smooth seam whether the pattern fits or when
fit is not a consideration. Students found threading
the Sergers quite challenging and frustrating at
first, but now they have mastered the machines
and will be able to use this sewing technique with
confidence in the future.
FIHS will attend Friday,
April 8, 2016
Tickets for sale to
seniors only
January 11th through 16th
All Lunches in Café
Cost approx. $120.00-$130.00
Price includes Grad Bash and Transportation
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The number of tickets available for sale to this year’s
Grad Bash Event will be restricted by the bus company requirement of charging for every seat on the bus,
occupied or unoccupied. There are no funds available
to pay for unoccupied seats. Therefore the number of
available tickets will be set at 255 (five buses). Any
additional, interested participants must number 51 (to
fill another whole bus). It is recommended that you
purchase your ticket as quickly after they go on sale as
possible. Your ticket is non-transferrable and nonrefundable. You cannot sell or give it to another student and if you change your mind, you cannot get your
money back. The administration will assign bus
seating as closely as possible based on the order in
which tickets are sold. To be with your friends,
purchase your tickets at the same time. If you have
any concerns, please see Mr. Knight now.
REMINDER: Per student handbook regarding social
functions, 10 or more excused or unexcused absences,
or the number of or severity of discipline referrals may
also disqualify you. Also, you must not owe any money/books/uniforms, etc. to FIHS in order to purchase a
ticket.
Start saving your money now!
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October/November 2015
FLEMING ISLAND HIGH SCHOOL
“Home of the Golden Eagles”
2015-2016 CLUBS, ACTIVITIES & HONOR SOCIETIES
American Sign Language Club
Jennifer Kruse (P 25)
Anime Club
Thomas Pandich (P 43)
Band
Mara Rose/Ben Adams (Band Room)
Childcare
Amy Mercer (Rm 41)
Chorus
Kathleen White (Chorus Room)
Color Guard
Ben Adams (Band Room)
Dance Team
Ali Connell (P 23)
Drill Team (Flag Corps)
Ben Adams (Band Room)
FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America)
Brenda Kirkland (Rm 231)
FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes)
Meghann Collier
FCCLA
Amy Mercer (Rm 41)
Florida State Spanish Conference
Elizabeth Irigoyen-Meyers (Rm-321)
Freshman Class
Jordan Bright (Rm 79)
Frisbee
Paul Suter (Rm 134)
Gamers Gathering
Jason Merritt (P 35)
Girl Up
Amy Stalker (P-96)
Golden Quill Literary Magazine
Jason Merritt (P 35)
Great Decisions
A. Stalker (P-96)/C. Poole (R-258)
Invisible Children
Joanne Speicher-Harris (Rm 71)
Jazz Band
Mara Rose (Band Room)
Junior Class
Kim Repper (P 50)
Math Team
Benita Saunders (P-63)
NJROTC (Drill Team/Color Guard)
CWO Keller/1st Sgt. Lewnes (P 46)
Robotics Club
Paul Suter (R-134)/Rick Shimer (R-123)
Science/Medical Club
Brenda Morris (Rm. 298)
Senior Class
Jennifer Gunder (P 84)
Sophomore Class
Ginny Lowe (Rm-222)
Spanish Club
Elizabeth Irigoyen-Meyers/Pam Johnson
Student Council/Government
Josh Olschewske (P-73)
Teen Advisory Board/Media Center
Janet Hallstrom/Carol Papuga (MC)
Teen Court
D. Mueller Cell 773-3015)
Tri-Eagles
Jordan Bright (Rm 79)
Velocity
Mara Rose (Band Room)
Winter Guard
Ben Adams (Band Room)
Yearbook
Courtney Poole (Room 258)
HONOR SOCIETIES
Beta Club
High-Q (Academic Teams)
Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society)
NHS (National Honor Society)
National Art Honor Society
National Spanish Honor Society
National Technical Honor Society
Thespians (Drama Honor Society)
Amy Stalker (P 96)
Jennifer Bradley (Rm 291)
Benita Saunders (P-63)
Michelle Green (R-69)
Paul Suter (R-134)
Ruth Brasfield (Rm 302)
Toni Padgett (Rm 30B)
Amy Conlon (P 40)
Page 8
STUDENT PLANNERS FOR SALE
These great organizers are for sale in
the Main Office for only $8. They are
offered by our NJROTC program.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
The Student Code of Conduct will not
be printed this year. It is available on
the FIHS website or the School District
Website at: www.clay.k12.us/fih or
www.oneclay.net under “parent
information.”
TARDY / ABSENTEE POLICY
If a student is late to school, a parent
must accompany the tardy student to the
attendance desk (located in the main
office) for them to be given an excused
tardy slip. Any student with three (3)
unexcused tardies and/or absences
during 1st period during the nine weeks
will result in the loss of parking privileges. The student’s name will be placed at
the bottom of the list to get a new permit.
If a student is absent from school for an
entire day, then a note from a parent
with parent signature and phone number
is needed for an excused absence; this
note should be turned in to the attendance desk within three (3) days of the
student returning to school for the absence to be considered excused. Be
sure to write the student’s first and last
name as well as grade level on all notes.
ATTENDANCE FOR SOCIAL
FUNCTIONS
Students who are suspended from
school may not attend or participate in
any extra-curricular activities. Students
with 10 or more excused or unexcused
absences for 1st semester, or a total of
20 excused or unexcused absences for
the year will not be allowed to participate
in social functions, primarily intended to
reward students. This includes Grad
Nite, Prom, dances, field trips unless the
student can provide documentation of a
physical condition verified by a physician, or other unusual circumstances.
Students may be barred from participation in extracurricular activities because
of the number or severity of discipline.
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Page 9
Academy News
Fleming Island High School students
get a dose of “history” during
Celebrate Freedom Week!
Written by: Toni Padgett, Academy Coach, Fleming Island High
What
was it like to be in World War II at the age of 17? Mr. Jim Snellen, World War
II veteran, answered that question along with many others as he shared his
amazing stories of trials and
triumphs to the World History
students at Fleming Island High School in honor of Celebrate Freedom
Week. Students were astounded to hear of his accounts of military life as
a 17 year old in the South Pacific. Everyone was excited when he donated a copy of his book, South Pacific at 17 to the Media Center of their
school.
In other school wide events, American History students, after seeing the
presentation of the colors
and hearing about the
history of the flag, heard
from Carlos Deleon, of
the Wounded Warrior Project. Along with sharing his story of in Iraq, he
shared with the students how they could partner with Wounded Warriors
through the student ambassador program.
Ernest Serna, a Purple Heart recipient from the Vietnam War shared a
very different story of what it was like to return from a ‘politically unpopular” war as a veteran
In simultaneous presentations, many other FIHS
students heard from various
active duty and retired veterans about their military service. Bob Olson,
retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander shared his experiences in New York
at the time of 911, Johnna McKinnon and Maria Pimental explained how
life for women in the military has evolved over the years. John Gottlieb,
retired Air Force Major and a veteran of the Cold War fascinated students
with his stories about his time spent in Intercontinental Ballistic Missile operations. Joe
Hascin shared a message that even if someone tells you that you “can’t” do something,
if you work hard enough, you can!
The social studies curriculum has been revised by the state to include more instruction on
the Declaration of Independence and encourages school wide events to honor Freedom/
Founders Week. Clay County has designated the last full week of September for school
wide engagement. Various activities from school decorations to morning newscasts were
highlighted as part of Celebrate Freedom Week at Fleming Island High School!
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Page 10
“War Eagle” News
Well, it was a very busy first month for “War Eagles.” The majority of our efforts were
focused on working on the arrangements hosting the Capt M-9 Sports Challenge which
was a terrific event.
CADETS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
During the unit formation held on 23 Sep several cadets were front and center to receive
recognition for a job well done.
CADET OF THE MONTH
Erin Poblete was selected Cadet of the Month for Aug 2015 for her outstanding performance and Declan Bertolini selected Cadet of the Month for Sep 2015 for his outstanding performance.
Unit Support – We would like to thank all the parent volunteers who took the time out of
their busy schedules to support the Capt M-9 Challenge. We hosted 11 schools and over 450 cadets including ours.
We received nothing but praise from all of those that were in attendance. Thanks again!
Veterans Carwash – 1st SGT spearheaded this event and with the hard work of the cadets and parent volunteers raised
over $1,800 towards the Veterans dinner.
Air Rifle Team – Congratulations to this year’s team Captain, Aaron Parker. He was selected not only for his consistent shooting, but his dedication, willingness and ability to coach our 17 newest team members. During the month
the team has been busy training some of our new shooters and the more experienced shooters have been honing their
skills in preparation for our monthly Postal events which should begin in late Oct.
Athletic/Academic Team – Five cadets (Molnar,
Beechum, Ellison, Ferin and Demyere, H) braved
the soggy muddy conditions at Middleburg High
School 19 Sept and participated in their Pentathlon
(600 lbs. tire flip, knot tying, brain brawl, air rifle
With the end of October quickly approaching, Red Ribbon
shoot and 100 yard Humvee push) . The team left it
all on the course and did a great job.
Week is among the many events that will take place. The
Drill Team – Our Color Guards were busy throughschool will be recognizing this week from October 26-30th
out the month performing at various events to inin order to further educate students on the harmful side efclude: Football duties, Clay County school board
fects of drugs. Using alcohol and tobacco at a young age
meeting (17 Sep), and during the schools “Freedom
comes with a large risk that unfortunately, many teenagers
Week” event in the gymnasium 23 Sep. Congrats to
take. Some teens will experiment or stop, or continue to use
Cadet’s Hannah Schultz and Savannah DeGraaf
occasionally, without significant problems. However, others
for being selected to oversee the unit’s drill
teams. Also congrats to the following cadets for
will develop a dependency, moving on to more dangerous
being selected to be their perspective team comdrugs and causing significant harm to themselves and possimanders: Dane Doyle – Personnel Inspection Combly others. It is difficult to know which teens will experimander; Jacob Bombard – UnArmed Basic;
ment and stop and which develop serious problems, but our
Marissa Pattison – UnArmed Exhibition; Adam
goal is to stop all drug use, whether big or small. On Friday,
Mullin – Armed Basic; Chase Polk – Armed ExhiOctober 30 the students will have the opportunity to win
bition; Sophia Bertolini – Color Guard; Exavier
prizes by spinning a wheel and answering trivia questions
Demeyere – Athletic Team; Colin Roberts – Academics. Cadet Baer will be taking out the NS1 Colabout drug and alcohol use during their lunch. We hope that
or Guard for the Ed White meet.
with the activities going on, more students will join the
Thanks to Cadet Kyle Ulino for recommending the
fight against drugs.
unit wear their uniforms on Friday 11 Sept
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Zip lining proves to be a
great way to bring
students together!
Written by: Toni Padgett,
Academy Coach,
Fleming Island High
What are the necessary ingredients for a great teambuilding
activity?
The Early
Childhood
Education and NJROTC students
found out just what it takes to build
trust together as a group when they
attended a recent field trip to the
University of North Florida’s Osprey Challenge Course. The student learned that communication,
listening skills, and working together as a team sprinkled with a little bit of
fun and some good
weather are the right
combination needed to
bring a group together!
The students enjoyed a
day of activities facilitated by the UNF team and then came culminating
event- a zip line. Now talk about trust! It takes quite
a bit of trust to jump off a platform and sail across the
water at speeds of 35 m.p.h.! It was a great activity
hosted by one of our very own former Fleming Island
graduates, Goose Fredrikson, coordinator of the Osprey Challenge Course!
Page 11
Future Business Leaders of America
State Theme: “Leaving a Legacy”
Important Dates to Remember:
October 19 Firehouse Subs Fundraiser Night – 5 p.m.
to 9 p.m.
October 20 Firehouse Subs Fundraiser Night – 5 p.m.
to 9 p.m.
FBLA Members Meet and Greet at Sweet Frog (after dinner at Firehouse)
October 20 Committee Break-out Meeting, Rm 231,
1:50 – 2:30
Field Trip Forms Deadline- FBLA Fall Rally
October 27 Field trip: District Fall Rally at Creekside
High School, business attire & lunch money required.
Officer Meeting, Room 231, 1:50 to 3:00 p.m.
October 29 FBLA District Competition Sign-up Deadline
October 30 Dues Deadline – Must receive before 27th if
you plan to attend Oct. 27th field trip.
Oct. 30- Nov. 1 State Fall Leadership Conference, Lake
Yale, Florida
November 3 FBLA General Meeting, Room 231, 1:50 to
2:30 p.m. DUES deadline to be eligible to compete.
Competition Signup Deadline – Must have dues paid to
compete in Districts
November 15 American Enterprise Day
Dues deadline. Last opportunity to be a member this
year
November 17 Committee Breakout Meetings, Room 231,
1:50 to 2:30 p.m.
Officer Meeting, Room 231, 2:30 to 3:00 p.m.
You can still join FBLA! It is not too late!!
Future Business Leaders of America is now accepting
members!!
Were you a member last year? Then remember to rejoin
Teresa Cornett receives her long,
overdue retirement plaque!
A year later to the day, retired teacher, Teresa Cornett, is presented her
plaque in appreciation for her thirty years of service! She really wasn't forgotten, but once she retired, she has been so busy with her new job, that she
didn't have time to come pick up her plaque! So, when she came by to visit
Fleming Island High on October 14th, exactly one year after her retirement,
Mr. Pittman seized the opportunity to make the presentation! Although
gone, she is not forgotten! She will, forever, be remembered by her students and fellow faculty members!
Golden Eagle Gazette
FALL October / November 2015
Fleming Island High School 1st Semester Exam Schedule
Tues.
12/16
Wed.
12/17
Thurs.
12/18
7:20—9:00 1st Exam
2nd Exam
4th Exam
9:06-10:45 3rd Exam
6th Exam
5th Exam
Page 12
All Sports Schedules can be found on
the FIHS Athletics website (click on
“Athletics” on the school website; or go to
www.fihsathletics.com).
If you have a student on an athletic team,
make sure to register yourself and your
student on the athletics website.
Early Dismissal for STUDENTS at 10:45 a.m. each day!
2015 – 2016
Guidance Office Student Allocation
Counselor
Phone
Howard Cushnir
336-7657
Shannon Jordan
336-7655
Brian Haggard
9th/10th Grade
Academy
11th/12th Grade
By Last Name
Sci-Z
336-7656
Visual & Performing Arts
Joj-Z
Visual & Performaing Arts
A-Joi
Academy of Digital Media
Parent Newsletter of
Shirley
Baggett
Fleming Island High School
336-7658
VyStar Academy of Business
J —Nol
Carly Netherland
336-7659
A.I.C.E. & Dual Enrollment
Nom—Sch
Golden Eagle Gazette
A—C
D —I
The Golden Eagle Gazette is a newsletter for parents
produced by FIHS Administration. Please submit
information to be included in upcoming issues of the
Gazette to Mrs. Burke, Asst. Principal; or you may
email your information to: [email protected] or
call 336-7669. Issues are produced five (5) times
during the school year.
FIHS Frequently Used Numbers:
Parents: Please Update Contact Information
If any of your contact information has changed, please come
to Guidance to update your information. This includes your
address, phone #, Email, etc.
Administration
Attendance
Guidance
Clinic
School office hours 7:00
For More Information visit the FIHS Website
fih.oneclay.net
336-7500
336-7670
336-7661
336-7507
a.m.- 3:00p.m.