Principal Notes

At Owensboro High School, we believe education is more than academics—it's about building character, community, and a strong sense of purpose. This year, our school-wide theme is:

Here’s what it means to us—and to your student:

• 💡 Lead with Purpose
  We encourage students and staff to step up as leaders—not just with titles, but through their actions, words, and values. Leading with purpose means making choices that reflect integrity, kindness, and responsibility, whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the community.

• ❤️ Serve with Heart
  Service is at the heart of everything we do. We’re teaching our students to look out for one another, help those in need, and give back—because even small acts of kindness make a big impact. Through volunteer opportunities and school events, students learn that true strength lies in compassion.

• 🌱 Grow Through Experience
  Learning happens in many ways—through challenges, teamwork, and even failure. We want our students to embrace every opportunity to grow, both academically and personally. When students reflect on what they’ve learned, they become more resilient, confident, and prepared for life beyond high school.

As families, you play a huge part in this journey. Thank you for partnering with us as we help students lead with purpose, serve with heart, and grow through every experience at Owensboro High School!

⏰ Doors open at 7:30 AM
🛎️ Tardy bell rings at 8:30 AM
📚 Red Devil Run Down Schedule
🚗 Car riders: Enter lot from McCreary Ave
🚌 Bus lane is for buses only – No cars or drop-offs in the bus lane. Help us keep it clear and safe!
🅿️ Student drivers: Park in yellow-lined spaces in the North Gym Lot ONLY.
🚶 Walkers: Enter building through car rider entrance. Exit building through E5 only
🛡️ All students screened via OPENGATE detection system upon entry.
🆔 Student ID badges required at all times on campus
🥞🍕 FREE breakfast & lunch for all students!
⏰ Dismissal at 3:25 PM

We’re excited to welcome our Red Devils back to school on Thursday, August 7, with a high-energy, student-centered kickoff: the Red Devil Run Down!

This special first-day schedule is designed to help every student feel confident, connected, and ready to learn. We know that a strong start leads to a strong year, and that’s exactly what we’re aiming for!

The Red Devil Run Down is a fun, fast-paced schedule that gives students the chance to:

• Get familiar with their full class schedule, including both Red and Black Day classes;

• Meet all of their teachers and classmates;

• Learn about classroom expectations and needed supplies; and

• Begin building relationships and routines that lead to success.

In addition to attending all classes, students will have an extended Advisory block where they will:

• Connect with their mentor teacher;

• Participate in team-building activities with their Advisory group;

• Receive their OPS issued device;

• Learn about OHS House Days for the 2025–2026 school year; and

• Begin developing the supportive relationships that make OHS feel like home.

We believe that relationships and engagement are at the heart of learning. The Red Devil Run Down helps our students feel comfortable and confident navigating their school day; begin the year with clear expectations and support; and get excited about being part of the OHS community.

We can’t wait to see our Red Devils back on campus, ready to lead with purpose, serve with heart, and grow through experience. Here's to an amazing start to the school year!

Each year, we ask families to complete the Household Income Form—and we know it can feel like just another piece of paperwork. But did you know this one simple form plays a big role in your student’s education and in funding important programs across our school?

Whether you think your family qualifies for financial assistance or not, completing the form helps every student at Owensboro High School. Here's how...

💰 School Funding

When families fill out the form, our school becomes eligible for additional state and federal funding. These funds support programs like:

• Classroom supplies and technology

• Tutoring and academic intervention programs

• Family Resource Youth Service Centers

More completed forms = more funding for every student!

🏈 🎻Extracurriculars

Funding tied to this form can help reduce costs for:

• After-school clubs and enrichment programs

• Field trips and school events

• Sports participation fees and equipment

• Performing arts and academic competitions

Completing the form helps make sure all students can participate, regardless of family income.

🎓 College & Testing Fees

Students may be eligible for fee waivers for:

• ACT/SAT testing

• Advanced Placement (AP) exams

• College applications

• Dual credit courses

These opportunities open doors—and your completed form can help make them more affordable.

🍎 School Meals

Even if you don’t use it, this form helps determine eligibility for:

• Free or reduced-price school breakfast and lunch

• Summer food programs

• Snacks during after-school activities

Some grants and meal programs require updated income information—so keeping this form current ensures no student goes without.

Your five minutes can make a lasting difference! Fill out the Household Income Form online by simply scanning the QR code or clicking here. Complete the form even if you don't think you qualify—it still helps! Your information is confidential and secure.

When every Red Devil family fills out the form, our whole school community benefits—from stronger programs to better opportunities for all students.

Have questions or need help completing the form? Contact our Youth Service Center—we’re happy to help!

At Owensboro High School, we believe that clear expectations and open communication help students succeed. That’s why each year we ask students and families to review the OHS Student Handbook together.

The handbook includes important information about schedules; attendance and tardy policies; academic and graduation expectations; code of conduct and behavior matrix; dress code; cell phone and technology use; and student activities, supports and resources.

Over the next several days, students will review key parts of the handbook during Advisory. Mentor teachers will guide students through the most important expectations to make sure everyone is set up for success.

After reviewing the handbook, students and parents/guardians must sign and return the Student Handbook Acknowledgment Form by Friday, August 22. Students who return their signed form to their Advisory teacher by the deadline will earn House Points for their OHS House!

Thank you for helping us create a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment at OHS!

A recent update to Kentucky House Bill 208 brings new rules to every school across the commonwealth about the use of personal devices during the school day. The law now prohibits students from using personal telecommunications devices during instructional time, except during an emergency, if directed to do so by a teacher for an instructional purpose or if authorized by the teacher.

Research shows that cell phones are a major source of distraction in classrooms and that many students are unknowingly becoming addicted to their devices. Having a phone within reach or hearing a notification can pull attention away from learning. This change supports a more focused, engaged, and respectful learning environment by:

• Reducing distractions during instruction;
• Encouraging face-to-face communication and interactions;
• Improving student engagement in class; and
• Protecting student privacy.

• Before school until 8:25am
• During passing/transition times; however, students must have only one (1) listening device in use
• During the students designated lunch period while in the cafeteria
• After school at 3:25pm

The OHS telecommunication policy will help students improve their focus; build healthy habits; and create an even more respectful and engaging classroom culture. We ask all families to encourage responsible phone habits and respectful classroom behaviors. Please know your students daily schedule, and refrain from calling or texting during instructional time. Reinforce that emergencies are the exception - not the rule- for phone use during school hours. Talk with your young person about the new law and what it means.

✅ When Device Use Is Okay at OHS:

• When a teacher clearly says it’s part of a lesson

• During an emergency or safety situation at school

• During non-instructional times

🚫 What’s Not Allowed During Instructional Time at OHS:

• Texting, calling, or using social media

• Playing games, watching videos, or listening to music

• Taking photos or recording audio/video

• Using smartwatches or other personal devices unless directed by a teacher

Mark your calendar! OHS Parent-Teacher Conference dates are set for the 2025-2026 school year...

Parent-Teacher Conferences are a valuable opportunity to:

• Discuss your child’s academic progress and growth;

• Share and receive insights about learning habits, strengths, and challenges;

• Participate in student showcases of learning, conversations with school counselors, and other helpful informational sessions; and

• Build a strong home-school connection to support your child’s success.

When families and teachers work together, students thrive. We hope to see you from 4-7pm on Parent-Teacher Conference nights at OHS!

Get ready to smile, Red Devils! School Picture Day for Owensboro High School students in grades 9–11 is scheduled for Friday, August 22.

This is your student’s official school photo that will be used in the yearbook and for school IDs, so make sure they come to school ready to shine!

Parents and guardians can pre-order photo packages online by visiting mylifetouch.com and using the Picture Day ID EVTC77BGB or by scanning the QR code provided on the flyer below.

We’re looking forward to capturing those back-to-school smiles!

We’re excited to announce a special opportunity just for our OHS seniors! On Wednesday, August 27 the Class of 2026 will hit the road for the Tour de Owensboro – The College Circuit, a one-of-a-kind experience designed to explore the incredible college options available right here in our hometown.

During this event, seniors will visit four local colleges and universities:

• Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC)

• Kentucky Wesleyan College (KWC)

• Western Kentucky University – Owensboro (WKU-O)

• Brescia University

At each stop, students will take part in guided campus tours; learn about degree programs, scholarships, and student life; meet admissions staff and college students; and see firsthand what it’s like to be part of a college community right here in Owensboro.

The Tour de Owensboro is about more than just seeing campuses—it's about:

• Expanding your vision for what’s possible after graduation

• Getting a head start on the college decision-making process

• Discovering affordable, high-quality college pathways close to home

• Building confidence in taking the next step toward your future

Whether you're planning to attend a four-year university, earn a technical credential, or still exploring your options, this tour is a powerful way to help shape your next chapter.

If you have questions, feel free to contact Mr. S in the Media Center! Let’s hit the road, Red Devils—and get inspired for what comes next!

We’re excited to share that School Smiles will be visiting Owensboro High School on Thursday, August 28 to provide free dental services for our students—right here on campus! This is a convenient and important opportunity to help students stay healthy, confident, and ready to learn.

The School Smiles dental team will offer dental exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, x-rays (if needed), sealants and other minor treatments. All services are provided at no cost to families.

It’s easy to sign up! Just scan the QR code provided on the flyer or use the registration link to get started.

Taking care of your student’s dental health is one more way we support their success in and out of the classroom. Don’t miss this opportunity!

If you have questions or need help registering, contact the OHS Youth Service Center. We’re here to support your family and make sure every student has access to the care they need.

As of June 27, 2025, Kentucky’s Senate Bill 181 requires all electronic communication between school employees (teachers, administrators, classified staff, district staff, coaches, and volunteers) and students be conducted through official, district-approved platforms. Personal texts, direct messaging, and social media interactions are no longer allowed unless parents give written permission for a specific staff member. This change helps ensure student safety, transparency, and gives families access to review conversations—all while maintaining healthy, professional boundaries.

Owensboro Public Schools will utilize the following platforms for traceable, two-way communication between school staff and students:

• Talking Points - district-provided platform designed for two-way communication between school/teachers and parents/guardians, and with students of certain ages
• Google Workspaces - district's digital productivity suite including but not limited to Gmail, Classroom, Docs, Slide, Sheets, etc.

To ensure the safety and well-being of our students, and to be in compliance with the law, Owensboro Public Schools will require written permission for digital communication beyond the platforms listed above. If you'd like your student to communicate with a school district employee or volunteer (coach, teacher, mentor, tutor, etc.) outside the district approved platforms, you must submit a consent form to allow it. Completing a consent form grants permission for a specific school staff member or volunteer to communicate with your student digitally using personal devices or platforms. You can grant consent by completing the form HERE and returning it to OHS.

At Owensboro High School, we will continue to use our official social media pages, Infinite Campus Messenger, and the OHS website as one-way communication tools to keep families and students informed about important updates, events, and celebrations. While these platforms are great for sharing information, please note that due to new state guidelines under SB 181, staff members will no longer respond to direct messages or private comments on social media. For two-way communication with all OPS staff and volunteers, we will use district-approved platforms such as school email, Google Classroom, or Talking Points.

Thank you for partnering with us to keep our Red Devil community safe and connected!

We are excited to inform you that Owensboro Public Schools now offers SchoolCash Online as our preferred method of payment for all school fees, including everything from field trips to yearbooks.

• Pay for your child's school activities, items, or fees anytime, anywhere via the secure online payment platform.
• Manage all students in your household from one location.
• Stop sending money to school with your child.
• Get automatic email notifications about upcoming school fees and activities.
• Help increase efficiency and security at the schools.

Scan the QR code for the OHS Fall Sports Schedule!

Go Devils!

Monday, August 4

OPS District-Wide Professional Development at OHS

OHS SBDM Meeting 4pm

Tuesday, August 5

OHS Professional Development Day

Wednesday, August 6

OPS Opening Day for Staff

Thursday, August 7

First Day of School - Welcome Back Red Devils

Red Devil Run Down Schedule

Friday, August 8

OHS House Party

Friday, August 22

OHS Picture Day for Grades 9-11

Monday, August 25

OHS SBDM Meeting 4pm

Wednesday, August 27

Tour de Owensboro for OHS Class of 2026

School-Wide Benchmark Assessments for Grades 9-11

Thursday, August 28

School-Wide Writing Benchmarks from Grades 9-11

School Smiles at OHS

Monday, September 1

Labor Day - No School