MARAUDERS WEEKLY

February 16

• President's Day, No School

February 17

• Blue Day
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM

February 18

• Orange Day
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM
• Boys Basketball vs. Alameda, 6 PM
• Senior Night
• Girls Basketball @ Alameda High School, 6 PM

February 19

• Blue Day
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM
• Boys/Girls Wrestling: State, TBD

February 20

• Orange Day: Marauder PRIDE Day
• Boys/Girls Wrestling: State, TBD

• Boys/Girls Wrestling: State, TBD

Dear Mitchell High School Families,

I hope you are enjoying the long Presidents Day weekend that paired nicely with Valentine's Day. I hope everyone was able to spend quality time with the people who bring you happiness and joy.

Presidents Day on Monday, February 16, is a recognized holiday that encourages us to reflect on the leaders of our country who have the critical obligation to reinforce the values that have shaped our country, such as civic responsibility, public service, and working together to build stronger communities. It reminds us that democracy grows when people, especially young people, speak up in positive and respectful ways for the good of all.

This message feels especially relevant after last week’s student-led demonstration. I want to praise our students for showing maturity, cooperation, and respect during this time. Working with school staff, student organizers followed all the guidelines, stayed in the appropriate areas, and met our expectations for good behavior and language. The majority of students got back to class on time, followed safety rules, and kept the demonstration peaceful and focused.

Events like this show the best of our Marauders community: engaged, thoughtful, and principled students who stand up for what matters while caring about our school’s well-being. I am truly proud of our students and thankful to our staff, district security, and School Resource Officers for helping keep things safe, supportive, and organized.

Looking ahead, I want to highlight that we have only 34 student contact days remaining before spring standardized testing.

For schools like ours working to strengthen performance and exit the state accountability watchlist, these assessments carry significant weight. Standardized tests impact a school’s accountability ratings, which influence potential state intervention, such as state support, partnerships, and funding. They also affect students’ placement into credit‑bearing courses and the avoidance of costly remediation at the postsecondary level, college, and university. Standardized tests also serve as objective benchmarks that help educators find and address our students’ academic learning gaps. Long-term results show that strong test scores are linked to higher college attendance, more degrees earned, and better earnings over time.

No matter your motivation, whether it’s college or university scholarships, career plans, or personal growth, we can all agree that these tests are important for Mitchell High School’s future and for every student’s path.

In the coming weeks, I’m asking everyone, students, staff, families, and community partners to work together. By supporting each other, we can make sure all students feel ready and confident for testing. Our teamwork will continue to improve Mitchell High School while building a strong reputation for excellence in academic performance and postsecondary readiness.

Let’s make it another great week, Marauders Nation, and get those WINS - We Increase Numbers by believing in our Students!

George Smith, Principal

The School Accountability Committee (SAC) comprises a dedicated team committed to driving student success and ongoing school improvement. Reverend Michael Bibbs and Alyssa Webb serve as co-chairs for the 2025-2026 school year, bringing strong collaborative leadership that will further strengthen the SAC’s mission. Their guidance is expected to boost parental engagement and foster greater community involvement.

The next SAC meeting will be held at its regularly scheduled time and place, Mitchell High School, on Thursday, February 12, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. For your convenience, a virtual attendance option is also available via the provided link.

We sincerely appreciate everyone who has attended and contributed to the Mitchell High School SAC. Your involvement is vital to our shared success.

For more information, contact our committee:

Co-Chair Michael Bibbs at michaelbibbs039@gmail.com (719) 287-2729

Co-Chair Alyssa Webb at opuswebb@gmail.com (719) 475-7465

DAC Representative Alyssa Webb ... Substitute Representative Sharon Simpson-Dogon

Secretary Sharon Simpson-Dogon at yeswellnessmatters@gmail.com

FUTURE CENTER EVENTS:

Monday, February 16, 2026

No School

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Peak Education Workshop

10:00 am to 11:00 am

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Colorado State University -Pueblo, College Rep Visit

Future Center during lunch

Sign up in Schoolinks

Thursday, February 19, 2025

Colorado State University-Fort Collins and University of Northern Colorado Field Trip

7:30am to 6:00pm

Sign up in Schoolinks

Friday, February 20 , 2026

FAFSA Friday

Stop by the Future Center during lunch if you still need help with your FAFSA Application

Saturday, February 21, 2026

Educating Children of Color Conference

Trojan Arena

FREE for high school students

Register at educatingchildrenofcolor.org/ecocsummit

Other News:

A Note About College Applications and Post-Secondary Planning:

Senior students still needing help completing their college applications should see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks in the Future Center. If students are not interested in attending college directly after high school, we still need to meet with you! There are lots of other opportunities for students who are interested in apprenticeships, internships, military, etc.

ATTENTION SENIORS-An important note about the FAFSA Application for ALL Seniors:

ALL SENIORS NEED TO COMPLETE THIS!!!

As part of the required ICAP (Individualized Career and Academic Plan) which is required for graduation, EVERY senior will need to either complete a FAFSA Application and document this in Schoolinks OR indicate in Schoolinks that they will not file a FAFSA Application. Please see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks in the Future Center if you need help with this.

Students With Jobs Outside of School/Potential High School Credit:

For any student who is employed and has not filled out the application for high school credit in Schoolinks, please see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks in the Future Center. Students who work a certain number of hours within a semester can earn high school credits.

A Unique Opportunity for current 10th and 11th Graders- Deadline Extended:

Impart Charitable will be selecting 250 Colorado students in 10th and 11th Grade and offering them money to jump-start their future. Students can be awarded up to $20,000 each and the money is to be used in specific ways. The deadline to apply has been extended to February 22, 2026. More information and the link to the application can be found HERE. If you have questions about this or need help with your application, please see Mr. Cooks or Mrs. Montez in the Future Center.

Attention Junior Boys! Colorado Boys State Opportunity:

High School Juniors are invited to apply for the 2026 American Legion Colorado Boys State program. These young men will experience American self-government as they create and operate in their own cities, counties and state governments. This is a "hands on" environment, and students will interact with their peers from all across Colorado to share concerns, ideas and some agreements on what and how to operate their state as they develop and demonstrate their leadership skills. This year's event will take place at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado from May 31 thru June 6, 2026. There is no cost for the student, but students must complete an application at https://colegionboysstate.org/ The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026. Participants are also eligible to apply for college scholarships.

Attention Junior Girls! Girls State Opportunity:

High School Juniors are invited to apply for the 2026 American Legion Colorado Girls State program. This is a week-long program designed for young women who are passionate about patriotism and female empowerment. Delegates are taught about the governmental process and learn the ethics of being a responsible, civically involved citizen and leader. This year's event will take place at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado from June 7th thru June 13th. There is no cost to the student, but students must complete an application at https://alacolorado.org/girls-state/ The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.

SCHOLARSHIPS:

Sachs Foundation Scholarship:

The Sachs Scholarships are $10,000 per year for up to 4 years of full-time study. It is open to anyone that identifies as Black, is a high school senior, and a full-time Colorado resident for at least 3 years. Visit www.sachsfoundation.org to apply. The deadline is March 15th.

Izak Jasson Memorial Scholarship:

1. Izak Jasso was a very special young man who made great contributions to Mitchell High School. He would have been a member of MHS Class of 2025 but unfortunately his life was cut short after his sophomore year. As a leader on the wrestling team and in the AFJROTC Program, Izak inspired all of us with his enthusiasm, kindness, and pursuit of excellence.

2. The AFJROTC Program has established an annual scholarship for a Mitchell High School graduating senior to honor the legacy of Izak and to serve as an inspiration to all Mitchell students to pursue the traits that Izak emulated.

3. The criteria for the Izak Jasso Memorial Scholarship are based on the MHS A.C.C.E.P.T criteria. Applicants must have the following:

a. ACHIEVEMENT: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and acceptance (and intent) to pursue post-secondary education

b. COURAGE: Possess character and integrity

c. CARING: Display pride in Mitchell HS and demonstrate kindness toward others

d. EXCELLENCE: Embrace continuous improvement and the growth mindset

e. PERSEVERANCE: Have goals for future education

f. TEAMWORK: Demonstrate a positive attitude and a desire to work with others

4. The 2026 Scholarship will be awarded in the amount of $1500. The application package must include the following items:

a. An official Mitchell HS Transcript

b. A 300-word essay on how the applicant exhibits the A.C.C.E.P.T criteria.

c. One letter of recommendation

d. An acceptance letter from the institution of higher learning that the student plans to enroll at in Aug-Sep 2026

5. The completed package must by turned into the AFJROTC Department NLT 18 March 2026.

Kit Faragher Foundation Scholarship:

Kathleen "Kit" Faragher was a woman full of life, deeply loved by family and friends. Kit's life was cut short during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The Foundation honors Kit's memory by supporting students who embody the same qualities that made her such a shining light in our community: resilience, positivity, and an infectious zest for life. They are seeking seniors with a positive can-do attitude, a strong commitment to personal goals and exceptional drive and determination. Eligibility criteria also includes a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrated financial need. Apply at www.KitFaragherFoundation.org The deadline to apply is Friday, April 17, 2026 at 5pm.

Colorado Senior and Student View Scholarship Program:

The 2026 Student View Scholarship Program offers $13,000 worth of scholarships to high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year college, community/junior college or career school. Al Colorado seniors who apply for the Student View Scholarship will also be automatically entered into the drawing for the new $500 Colorado Senior Scholarship. The application process is simple and only takes 15-20 minutes. There are no minimum SAT/ACT scores or GPA, no essay or lengthy application forms, and no application fees. Apply at www.student-view.com The scholarship deadline is April 23, 2026.

Kinnikinnik Chapter Scholarship:

The Kinnikinnik Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will be awarding a scholarship to a Pikes Peak area high school senior graduating in 2026. To qualify a student must have a GPA of 3.0 or above, be a US citizen, demonstrate characteristics of a good leader and provide clear and concise answers to questions on the student form. Please see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks for the student form to apply. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 20th.

Jiffy Lube Colorado 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? Finalist essays will be selected from the 500 word “What Drives You?” essays. Each finalist will be guaranteed a minimum $1,500 award if they create and submit a unique 1-2 min. video that expands on their essay in their own candid words, visuals, etc. The overall $3,500 scholarship winner will be chosen from these videos. Click on rules/guidelines and eligibility for complete details. The deadline to apply is March 9, 2026.

Big Future Scholarship Giveaways through College Board for 10th, 11th and 12th Graders:

Each month, Big Future gives students the change to earn the chance to earn scholarships by simply planning for life after high school. Every step completed earns another entry for a $40.000 scholarship. All students need is a College Board account to get started. This opportunity is open to 10th, 11th and 12th graders. Visit https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/bigfuture-scholarships to get started.

The Horatio Alger Scholarship - A Scholarship Opportunity for Juniors:

We want to share an exciting update about college planning for our students.

Our district (D11) is partnering with Match EAB, a college admissions platform used across Colorado. Match offers a Direct Admissions process that helps students discover colleges they already qualify for—making college applications easier and faster.

What this means for students

If a student chooses to create a profile with Match:

• Their high school transcript will be securely shared with Match
• This allows colleges to review eligibility automatically
• It saves time for both students and school counselors

Other nearby districts have seen great results using Match. For example, District 49 and District 2 had over 600 college applications submitted in just one month after participating.

Your choice as a parent

Before any transcripts are shared, families are being notified and given the option to opt out.

• An Opt‑Out Form is attached (this is the same type of form used by nearby school districts)
• If you do not want your student’s transcript shared with Match, you may submit the opt‑out form
• If no form is submitted, the transcript may be shared only if the student chooses to complete a Match profile

A Note About College Applications and Post-Secondary Planning:

Senior students still needing help completing their college applications should see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks in the Future Center. If students are not interested in attending college directly after high school, we still need to meet with you! There are lots of other opportunities for students who are interested in apprenticeships, internships, military, etc.

Students With Jobs Outside of School/Potential High School Credit:

For any student who is employed and has not filled out the application for high school credit in Schoolinks, please see Mrs. Montez or Mr. Cooks in the Future Center. Students who work a certain number of hours within a semester can earn high school credits.

The Future Center would also like to wish all students a great first week back!

ACCEPT Core Values in Action at Mitchell High School

At Mitchell High School, we ground our community in the ACCEPT Core Values—Achievement, Courage, Caring, Excellence, and Teamwork. These values guide our daily decisions, shape our culture, and help us create a safe, supportive, and successful environment for every Marauder. As we move through the school year, we want to highlight several important reminders and expectations that strengthen both our school climate and our shared commitment to these values.

Achievement: Setting Ourselves Up for Success

Achievement begins with strong habits, and one of the most important is showing up on time—to school, to class, and especially after lunch.

• Arrive at school on time to ensure a smooth start to your day.
• Return from lunch promptly to keep instructional time intact and maintain classroom momentum.
• Use Securly Pass any time you leave your classroom or another designated area. This system helps us maintain accountability, monitor hallway traffic, and ensure students are where they need to be in order to learn.

By practicing punctuality and responsibility, students demonstrate true academic achievement and respect for their learning environment.

Courage: Speaking Up and Prioritizing Safety

A safe school empowers students to learn, grow, and thrive. We want every Marauder to feel confident using the tools available to protect their peers and themselves.

Safe2Tell: If you see something, say something.

Students are encouraged to use Safe2Tell to report concerns anonymously. Whether it’s safety issues, bullying, threats, or anything that makes you uncomfortable—having the courage to speak up is how we take care of one another.

Increasing our school safety perception starts with students knowing their voice matters and that every report is taken seriously.

Caring: Respecting Ourselves and Our Community

Caring for ourselves includes presenting ourselves in a way that supports a positive school community. Mitchell High School follows the Colorado Springs School District 11 Dress Code, which promotes:

• Safety
• Respect
• Readiness to learn

Students should choose clothing that aligns with the district’s dress policies and avoids distractions or safety risks. This ensures that every student feels comfortable, respected, and ready to engage in learning.

Excellence: Learning Without Distractions

To maximize focus and improve the academic environment, Mitchell High School uses Yondr pouches for all personal electronic devices.

Reminder:

• All cell phones and personal electronics must be secured in the Yondr pouch upon entry to the school each day.
• Devices must remain locked away until students are officially dismissed.

This expectation is essential for minimizing distractions, improving engagement, and supporting excellent academic outcomes.

Teamwork: Building a Positive School Culture Together

A strong school community thrives when every member does their part. By following expectations consistently—using Securly Pass, arriving on time, adhering to the dress code, properly using Yondr pouches, and reporting safety concerns—we create a school where everyone feels safe and supported.

Teamwork isn’t just about collaborating in the classroom or on the court—it's also about helping uphold the values that make Mitchell High School a place where all students can succeed.

Living the ACCEPT Values Every Day

As Marauders, we are committed to:

• Achievement in academics and personal growth
• Courage to speak up and do what’s right
• Caring for ourselves and others
• Excellence in conduct and learning
• Teamwork to build a safe, thriving school community

Thank you for being an active part of keeping Mitchell High School a place where every student can learn, feel safe, and succeed. Let’s continue to rise together—the Marauder Way.

-Mr. Blanc and Dr. Rinder