MIHS Newsletter
March 8, 2026
March 4 ~ Early Dismissal (High Schools Only)
March 31 ~ End of Quarter 3
Mark Your Calendar: High School Early Dismissal Dates
Please mark your calendar for the following early dismissal dates for HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY
(all other MTSD schools will follow their normal schedules):
· March 4th
· April 24th
Career Planning through Naviance!
Students in 9th and 10th grade taking World Geography or World History are kicking off their career and postsecondary planning with Naviance, a powerful online tool that helps them discover how their strengths, interests, and personality connect to real-world careers. Through quick career assessments and surveys, students can see how what they’re learning now builds toward their future goals.
With Naviance, students can dive into career options, college pathways, and scholarship opportunities that match who they are and what they want to become. Parents are encouraged to log in with their student(s) and explore together!
Each year, students complete specific Naviance tasks designed to guide their career exploration.
· Semester 1 social studies students: Tasks due mid-December
· Semester 2 social studies students: Tasks due late February
Supporting Children After the Suicide of a Classmate
The Child Mind Institute article “Supporting Children After the Suicide of a Classmate” explains how parents and educators can help children process this difficult loss in healthy ways. It emphasizes speaking honestly, avoiding graphic details, and framing suicide as the result of overwhelming emotional pain or untreated mental health challenges.
Adults are encouraged to listen openly, reassure students that they are not to blame, and check in regularly as emotions may resurface over time. Creating safe spaces for conversation and watching for signs of distress are key steps in supporting students through the grieving process.
Read the full article here: https://childmind.org/article/supporting-children-after-the-suicide-of-a-classmate/
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Kim Quirk, School Psychologist (quirk@mtsd.org).
YANAT PATANAKUL - DISTRICT X CHAMPION
KYLA QUIVEY - DISTRICT X CHAMPION
McDOWELL HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS 25-26 SCHEDULE
https://www.mcdowellathletics.com/schedule?year=2025-2026
GoFan Ticketing
Tickets for McDowell Athletics events for the 2025 - 2026 season will be exclusively sold digitally and managed via mobile device through GoFan ticketing. All individual event tickets as well as season passes will be conveniently purchasable and accessible via mobile device and GoFan ticket app.
The GoFan ticket app is the easiest and most convenient way to purchase and manage tickets via mobile device. The app is available for free download on both the Apple Store and Google Play.
Create an account and favorite “McDowell High School” so all the events for your favorite Trojan teams can be found quickly and easily.
Season Passes Now Available! Did you know you can get the best value in Trojan sports with a full-season athletics pass? Student passes are just $20 and adult passes are $45, good for all McDowell home events this school year. Visit the [McDowell GoFan page] to purchase.
A reference guide for managing tickets can be found on GoFan’s ticket support website, which includes instructions on how to purchase, transfer, and redeem tickets.
McDowell’s Fashion Sustainability Club
McDowell’s Fashion Sustainability Club, the Leather and Lace Initiative, will host a schoolwide thrift store in the McDowell Intermediate front lobby from April 20–25. The store will be open to students during tutorial and lunch periods and will also welcome community members on Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26. The event promotes sustainable fashion while raising funds for a nonprofit organization that supports individuals in Erie and beyond. Families are invited to contribute by sending in gently used clothing and jewelry donations with their students. Donations can be dropped off in Ms. Coleman’s room (Intermediate, Room 4-206) or Ms. Inscho’s room (High School, Room 125).
U.S. Naval Academy Summer Programs Now Accepting Applications
Applications are now open for the U.S. Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar and Summer STEM programs, which offer outstanding opportunities for students to experience life at the Naval Academy and explore future pathways in leadership, service, and STEM fields.
The Naval Academy Summer Seminar is a one-week program designed for rising high school seniors who are interested in learning more about the U.S. Naval Academy. Participants experience the Academy’s rigorous academic environment, athletic expectations, and professional training that help prepare future leaders for service to our nation.
The Summer STEM Program is designed for rising 9th, 10th, and 11th graders and provides hands-on learning experiences in math and science. Students work closely with U.S. Naval Academy faculty and midshipmen while participating in engaging STEM-based activities.
Both programs offer students a unique opportunity to explore academic interests, develop leadership skills, and gain insight into life at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Additional information and application details can be found on the U.S. Naval Academy Admissions website at:
https://www.usna.edu/Admissions/index.php
Students who may be interested are encouraged to explore these opportunities and discuss them with their school counselor.
Refunds:
- Refunds can be requested for positive funds in your child’s account by emailing foodservice@mtsd.org. Include your child’s name and the mailing address for the refund.
Introducing: Qustodio Parental Controls
MTSD offers Qustodio for all district devices, which offers parents the ability to restrict their student's district device outside of school hours. Qustodio has provided a guide for parents and a FAQ link to their website with helpful tips on how to implement various parental controls. Check out these resources below: