Providence Hall High School
A NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Weekly Update
We are looking forward to another great week at Providence Hall High School.
Please note an important schedule reminder. Tuesday, March 10 is ACT Testing Day for all 11th grade students. There will be no school for 9th, 10th, or 12th grade students that day.
We are also excited for the opening of our Spring Musical this week, along with athletic competitions, fine arts events, and other opportunities for students to showcase their talents.
As always, please take a few minutes to review the full Principal’s Update so you do not miss important announcements and celebrations.
Choose to have a great week, Patriots!
Melissa McPhail
PHHS Principal
Balancing Online Communication & Real Conversation
Today’s students collaborate constantly through digital tools such as group chats, shared documents, messaging apps, and social media. These tools make teamwork faster and more convenient, but they can also create misunderstandings when used carelessly. Tone can be misread, messages can be rushed, and conversations that should happen face to face are sometimes reduced to a few quick texts. Learning how to communicate clearly and respectfully online while still valuing in-person conversations is an important skill for students today.
Playwright George Bernard Shaw once said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” In other words, we often think we have explained something clearly when the other person actually heard something different. This happens even more easily through texts and online messages where tone, body language, and facial expressions are missing. When students pause before sending a message, choose respectful language, and recognize when a conversation should happen face to face, digital tools become helpful supports instead of barriers.
Technology is not the problem. It is a powerful tool for collaboration when used well. The key is balance. When students combine clear online communication with thoughtful in-person conversation, teamwork improves and misunderstandings decrease.
Tips for Students, Parents, & Guardians
Students, Try This:
- Think before sending messages or posting in group chats
- Avoid sarcasm or short responses that could be misunderstood
- Speak in person when conversations become complicated or tense
- Stay focused on the purpose of group chats or shared documents
- Use digital tools to organize work, not to avoid communication
Parents & Guardians, Try This:
- Talk with your student about respectful communication online
- Encourage important conversations to happen face to face when possible
- Remind students that digital messages still reflect character and responsibility
- Help students manage screen time so communication stays purposeful
- Ask how group projects are organized and how your student communicates with teammates
UPCOMING EVENTS
This Week at Providence Hall
- Mon. March 9:
- Tue. March 10: JUNIOR ACT TESTING DAY (NO SCHOOL FOR 9, 10, 12) // Home Volleyball (Gym, 4:30 & 6:00) // Away Softball // Away Baseball // Away Band & Orchestra Competition
- Wed. March 11: Spring Musical (Stage, 7pm) // Away Guitar Competition
- Thur. March 12: Spring Musical (Stage, 7pm) // Home Baseball (American Fork, 3:30 & 5:30) // Away Soccer
- Fri. March 13: Literary Journal Submission Deadline // Spring Musical (Stage, 7pm) // Away Softball Tournament // Away Baseball
- Sat. March 14: Math Credit Recovery Help & Tutoring (Rm. 246, 9 - Noon) // Spring Musical (Stage, 1 & 7pm) // Away Softball Tournament // Track Invitational
On The Horizon
- March 16: Spring Musical (Last Show)
- Wed. March 18: Band Concert (Gym, 7pm)
- Thur. March 19: Choir Concert (Gym, 7pm)
- Fri. March 20: Sadie's Assembly
- Sat. March 21: Sadie's Dance
- Thur. March 26: End-of-Term Deadline & End of 3rd Term
- Fri. March 27 - April 3: Spring Break (No School)
- Fri. May 22: Class of 2026 Graduation (Riot Ridge Stadium, 10am)
PATRIOT SPOTLIGHT
Sterling Scholar
February Students of the Month
Debate Team
Utah State Capitol Visit
Mr Seabury's government students participated in a unique experience at the Utah state capitol. Students had small group meetings with many different policy makers from our Utah State School Board (including the chair and vice-chair), state Senators, and state House of Representatives. They were able to have behind the scene visits to the senate lounge, a senate meeting room, and learn about the committee process in a reserved capitol committee hearing room. They also met with leadership from both the Democrat and Republican parties. Students also practiced setting up their own appointments with their state senator/representative. This gave everyone one of them the opportunity to sit on the floor of the House and Senate during live floor debates. These experiences allowed our students to gain real world understandings of how government actually works, and especially how to engage for themselves.
We the People Competition
At this year's state wide We the People competition Mr. Seabury was asked to be the keynote speaker and a judge. The event was hosted at Weber State university and is part of a national competition in which students study various aspects of the U.S. Constitution and then participate in presentations and Q/A sessions with a panel of judges who are familiar with our unique Constitutional system. Mr. Seabury spoke about the continued importance of the Declaration of Independence as we celebrate its 250th anniversary.
NEW & TIME SENSITIVE INFORMAITON
Juniors Take the ACT This Tuesday
Tuesday is a testing day for 11th grade students only. There will be no school for 9th, 10th, or 12th grade students.
All juniors will take the ACT on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Students must arrive no later than 7:45 a.m., with testing beginning promptly at 7:55 a.m. Breakfast will be available for purchase from 7:00–7:45 a.m. Students who plan to eat breakfast should arrive early to allow enough time before the exam begins.
Testing will conclude at approximately 11:40 a.m. for most students. Those with extended-time accommodations will finish at varying times, with all testing completed by 2:30 p.m.
A sack lunch will be available for purchase. Students may sign up in their testing rooms before the test begins, and student accounts will be charged accordingly.
Counselors will visit English classes this week to complete ACT registration. Students who are absent will need to complete registration on their own. Additional information will be sent in a separate email.
Please review the ACT flyer for more specific details.
Spring Musical
STEM Day
PTO Apparel Sale
Literary Journal
Don't forget to submit your story by March 13th!
After School & Saturday Math Tutoring
If your student is earning low grades in math, struggling to complete math homework, or needs support with math credit recovery, we encourage them to attend after-school math tutoring on Tuesdays (Rm.246, 3:15–5:15pm) and Saturdays (Rm.246, 9:00 - 12:00pm).
Two PHHS teachers will be available to provide support and assistance.
Did You Know Tutoring Can Also Clear NGs?
*This option is available on either Tuesday or Saturday.
Explore SLCC
Lunch Balance Fundraiser
Last year, Providence Hall students had over $6,000 in unpaid lunch balances. Every family’s journey is unique, but together we can make a big difference! Your donation—no matter the size—will go directly toward reducing student lunch debt across all three schools. Help us make sure every Patriot has a healthy meal and the energy to learn and succeed. Join our No-Fuss Fundraiser and help support our students. Every dollar fills a tray and fuels a mind! Click the image below or use the following link to donate: https://sfnd.io/qnjw5
SENIOR SECTION
(NEW) Graduation Newsletter
Class of 2026 College & Post High School Information
The purpose of this Newsletter is to keep students, parents, and guardians informed on key updates and important milestones as students prepare for life after high school.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Ken Garff Keys to Success
Providing students with an accessible tool, Keys to Success enables users to discover, connect to, and endeavor to achieve future possibilities. There are several scholarships available to Utah students through this program.
More information: https://www.ktsutah.org/
Deadline: varies
Utah Jiffy Lube Teen Driver Scholarship Program
The Jiffy Lube "What Drives You?" High School Scholarship program is a unique opportunity to pursue your interests, goals and ideas. A simple 500 words about what drives you? Four finalists will be selected in both categories from the 500 word "What Drives You?" essays. Each finalists will be guaranteed a $1500 award and then will create and submit a unique 1-2 min. video that expands on their essay in their own candid words, visuals, etc. The overall $6,500 scholarship winner will be chosen from these videos.
More information: https://yourturn2apply.com/utah.htm
Deadline: March 9 or April 13, 2026
Gallery Collection's Greeting Card Scholarship
Submit original artwork or photo for the front of a greeting card. AI submissions are prohibited. Applicants must be 14 years or older at time of entry and be enrolled in High School, College, University or Homeschool.
More information: https://www.gallerycollection.com/greeting-cards-scholarship.htm
Deadline: March 9, 2026
FEEA Scholarships
Since 1986, FEEA has given over 11,000 merit-based scholarships to federal public servants, their spouses, children, and grandchildren. Applicants must complete high school or college transcripts (unofficial transcripts accepted); write an essay; include a list of community service, awards, and extracurricular activities; provide a copy of federal employee sponsor’s current SF-50 (not required for retired NARFE members).
More information: https://feea.org/our-programs/scholarships/
Deadline: March 12, 2026
NLHA Education Fund
The NLHA Education Fund was established as a 501(c)(3) organization to raise funds for the purpose of awarding education grants and scholarships to low-income individuals residing in federally assisted rental housing owned, managed, or administered by members of the National Leased Housing Association. The National Leased Housing Association (NLHA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the development and preservation of decent and safe affordable rental housing. Multiple scholarships are available.
More information: https://hudnlha.com/education-fund/
Deadline: March 13, 2026
Quell Fighter Scholarship
The Quell Foundation Fighter Scholarship is awarded to select high school seniors or current undergraduate/graduate students that are being treated for a diagnosed mental health condition. The Quell Foundation Awareness Fund established the award to improve the care and treatment of people with mental health challenges.
More information: https://thequellfoundation.org/scholarships/
Deadline: March 13, 2026
OCA-UPS® Gold Mountain Scholarship
The title of this scholarship program calls back to a time when many immigrants looked upon America as a mountain of golden opportunities for themselves and their families. Awardees of the scholarship seek dreams of higher education, which are not only the dreams of the students but also of their parents and extended family. This year, first-gen high school students who will be graduating high school and starting college/university in Fall 2026 will be awarded $2,000 each.
More information: https://www.ocanational.org/gold-mountain-scholarship-high-school
Deadline: March 13, 2026
NPCA Foundation Scholarships
For more than three decades, the NPCA Foundation has provided educational scholarships to students enrolled in civil engineering, architectural, and construction-related curricula. Precast concrete-related careers include professional positions in manufacturing facilities, architectural firms, the specifying community, engineering firms and the general construction industry. The undergraduate scholarship is for high school seniors and college students interested in careers related to the precast concrete industry.
More information: https://precast.org/foundation/scholarships/
Deadline: March 13, 2026
Stossel Essay Contest
Each year, middle and high school students have the chance to make their case on big ideas — and compete for cash prizes. This year, we award over $12,000 to students. Choose one of this year’s prompts and build your case. Read the summaries, then click to see the full prompt and suggested starter resources.
More information: https://stosselintheclassroom.org/essay-contest/
Deadline: March 13, 2026
IMANA Scholarships
There is value in education – it shapes perspectives, enriches the intellect, and opens a world of possibilities. IMANA is committed to being a part of this process for future healthcare professionals as we endeavor to shape the future of healthcare. Our Scholarship Program annually provides a one-time award to financially assist full-time students pursuing a career across one of the many healthcare paths available.
More information: https://imana.org/scholarships/
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Navy League Foundation Scholarships
Sea service members with children face unique challenges, from long deployments to constant relocations. The Navy League Foundation eases the financial burden of college by providing scholarships that honor their sacrifices. The Navy League Foundation offers scholarships to high school seniors who will attend an accredited institution of higher education in the fall of the current award cycle. Multiple scholarships available.
More information: https://www.navyleague.org/programs/navy-league-foundation-scholarships/
Deadline: March 15, 2026
John Wright Memorial Scholarship
The John Wright Memorial Scholarship funds one student scholarship per year. This scholarship was established at the TREE Fund by Wright Tree Service in honor and memory of its founder, John L. Wright, and his son, John R. Wright. The purpose of this one-year scholarship is to support the arboriculture industry by helping college students interested in commercial arboriculture achieve high academic goals without accumulating burdensome debt. Applicants must be high school seniors entering college or community college or returning college students seeking a first bachelor’s degree or associates degree while attending an accredited US college or university. All applicants must plan to enter the commercial arboriculture industry.
More information: https://treefund.org/scholarships/wright
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Will Nutter Memorial Scholarship
The purpose of this one-year, $5,000 scholarship is to support the utility forestry and arboriculture industry by helping college students interested in those fields achieve high academic goals without accumulating burdensome debt. Up to $500 of the scholarship can be used for books and supplies. Applicants must be high school seniors entering college or community college or returning college students seeking a first bachelor’s degree or associates degree while attending an accredited US college or university. All applicants must have a genuine interest in the utility forestry or arboriculture industry, which they will express in an application letter.
More information: https://treefund.org/will-nutter-memorial-scholarship
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Dolphin Scholarship
Dolphin Scholarship Foundation grants are available, on a competitive basis, to high school or college children and spouses of members or former members of the submarine force or those who have served in submarine support activities. Current and former members of the U.S. Submarine Force are eligible to apply for certain SubForce Administered Scholarships as well. Currently, Dolphin Scholarship Foundation sponsors 113 ongoing DOLPHIN SCHOLARSHIPS with an annual grant of $2,600 or $4,000 per student for two to four years of full-time undergraduate studies as well as students pursuing trade/vocational certification. Approximately 25-35 new scholarships are awarded each year. All scholars are selected on the basis of academic proficiency as well as commitment and excellence in school and community activities. Although not a part of the actual selection process, financial need is considered once all financial aid assistance for an applicant has been determined.
More information: https://www.dolphinscholarship.org/scholarships/eligibility/
Deadline: March 15, 2026
David B. Durkee Memorial Scholarship Program
We represent manufacturing, production workers, maintenance and sanitation workers in the bakery, confectionery, tobacco and grain milling industries in North America. The 2026 David B. Durkee Memorial Scholarship Program will grant five $5,000 one-time scholarship awards. One of the five scholarships may be awarded to an active, dues paying member of the BCTGM. The program is open to members of the BCTGM and the children of union members.
More information: https://bctgm.org/scholarship/
Deadline: March 15, 2026
9/11 Promise Scholarship
The monies may be used for trade school, undergraduate or graduate level students for either in-state or out-of-state tuition. Applicants must be children of a fallen first responder or military service member, OR children of a first responder or military service member certified as not being able to work. Must have minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale for applicant (high school or undergraduate to date)
More information: https://the911promise.org/scholarships/
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Make Noise Today Scholarship
Your AAPI identity is more than where you come from—it shapes how you move through the world and how you take action today. Think about the values, traditions, or stories from your family or community that matter most to you. How do they influence how you see fairness, community, or your role in the world? Now take it a step further. Share a moment when your AAPI identity pushed you to do something—speak up, create, support others, or challenge something that didn’t feel right. This could be through art, organizing, mentoring, preserving culture, or everyday actions that make a difference.
More information: https://makenoisetoday.org/2026-student-contest-exhibition
Deadline: March 21, 2026
Utah High School Seniors of Italian Ancestry
Founded in 1934, the Italian-American Civic League (IACL) of Utah is a non-profit organization for Italian-Americans in the state that promotes civil, social, and educational growth. This scholarship is for Utah high school seniors of Italian ancestry who strive to promote these principles. Applicants must be of Italian ancestry; Be a graduate of a Utah high school within the 2025-2026 academic year; Be planning to matriculate as a degree-seeking student at any public or private higher education institution.
More information: Ask Ms. Thompson for the applicationDeadline: March 31, 2026
RAVE REVIEWS
Do you know of a teacher or staff member that is deserving of praise and recognition? If so, please submit a RAVE Review.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Youth Injury Prevention to Help Student Athletes
Wright Driving School
ACTIVITIES & ATHLETICS CONTACT INFORMATION
ATHLETICS: Austin Crapo - acrapo@providencehall.com
ACTIVITIES: Jill Stark - jstark@providencehall.com
PRINCIPAL'S UPDATE ARCHIVE
Principal's Update Archive
Browse previous communications from the Principal to stay connected with past announcements, highlights, and reflections from our school community.



