MARAUDERS WEEKLY

February 9

• Silver Day
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM
• Unified Basketball vs. Coronado, 3:45 PM

February 10

• Blue Day
• ACCESS Testing CLDE Students
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM
• Boys Basketball @ Sierra, 6 PM
• Girls Basketball vs. Sierra, 6PM

February 11

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

February 12

• Blue Day
• ACCESS Testing CLDE Students
• After School Tutoring, 3:15-4:45 PM
• Unified Theater, 2:10 PM
• Colorado Band Association @ Mitchell High School, 5 PM
• SAC Meeting, 5-6:30 PM, RM 129
• Boys Basketball vs. Falcon, 6 PM
• Girls Basketball @ Falcon, 6 PM

February 13

• Orange Day: Marauder PRIDE Day
• Girls Wrestling Regionals @ Lewis Palmer High School , 9AM
• Boys Wrestling Regionals @ Falcon High School, 9 AM

February 15

• Unified Basketball, Special Olympics-SE Regionals, TBD

Our 12th grade students recently demonstrated outstanding excellence and teamwork through their character biography projects in English classes. Students engaged deeply with their texts, collaboratively analyzing characters and thoughtfully presenting insights that reflected both strong academic skills and shared responsibility for learning.

This work highlighted not only students’ ability to think critically and communicate effectively, but also their commitment to supporting one another through collaboration and respectful discussion. The level of preparation, creativity, and mutual accountability on display is a strong reflection of the dedication our seniors bring to their learning and to the Mitchell High School community.

Our CLDE students—our International Marauders—recently partnered with our CC Tutors for a special craft night that highlighted the very best of the Mitchell High School community. Through creativity, collaboration, and shared conversation, students worked side by side to create crafts while building meaningful connections across programs.

This evening was a powerful example of teamwork in action and reflected our collective commitment to caring for one another at MHS. By coming together in a welcoming, inclusive space, students strengthened relationships, supported one another, and celebrated the sense of belonging that makes our Marauder community strong.

Not only are our students demonstrating our ACCEPT core values—so are our teachers. Last week, staff came together for a book talk focused on building our collective instructional capacity. Teachers demonstrated teamwork, excellence, and courage as they openly shared their thinking, reflected on practice, and put their own learning on display.

Our professional learning is centered on Fostering Deeper Learning: A Handbook for the Model of Instruction for Deeper Learning, reinforcing our shared commitment to high-quality instruction and meaningful learning experiences for all students.

This year, I’ve seen our community become stronger through new partnerships, more opportunities, and a clear focus on preparing every Mitchell student for life after high school. As we continue this semester, I want to share some of the great progress we’re making. Much of this is thanks to the dedication and teamwork of our staff, families, and students.

One of the most inspiring developments this year has been the progress within our Postsecondary Workforce Readiness (PSWR) and Career & Technical Education (CTE) programming. Mitchell earned the most industry certifications in the district, approximately 168 in total, a testament to the hard work of our students and the dedication of our CTE teachers. Our Certification Center continues to set the bar for excellence, and our Cybersecurity/Robotics program has recorded some of the strongest Work-Based Learning (WBL) results district‑wide. These achievements reflect our belief that students thrive when they have access to authentic experiences connected to future careers.

Along with program growth, our school community has supported important efforts to help students plan for life after high school. This year, more students took part in College Application Day than at any other school in the district. Our FAFSA and CASFA workshops also helped families prepare for college costs. In just one day, senior college applications went from 29% to 43%, and FAFSA completion continues to rise thanks to the hard work of our counselors, the Future Center, and staff who guide our students’ plans for the future.

As we move through the rest of the year, we are working to improve our support systems so students can find and follow new opportunities. We are improving our CTE support, updating tools to track certifications, work-based learning, and dual enrollment, and building partnerships with groups like UCCS, PPSC, Falcon Aerolab, and the Space Foundation. These partnerships help support Mitchell’s new aerospace pathway and show our commitment to giving students the best learning experiences.

Most of all, I want to thank you, our families, for your partnership. Families are key in helping students make choices, find their paths, and explore opportunities. Whether you support an event, encourage your student to finish their ICAP tasks, or just talk with them about future goals, your involvement truly makes a difference.

There are many schools and choices in our city. Thank you for choosing Mitchell High School and for believing in our mission, our programs, and our students. Our work matters because we do it together.

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:

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

D11 Promise Visit with Pikes Peak State College for 12th Graders

Future Center

8:00am to 12:00pm

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Flight School Presentation

Future Center during lunch

Sign up in Schoolinks

Thursday, February 12, 2025

Ignite Futures Fund Information Session for 10th and 11th Graders

IF YOU COULD USE $20,000, YOU MUST ATTEND!!!

Sign up in Schoolinks

Friday, February 5, 2026

FAFSA Friday

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

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 and Seniors:

Eligibility Requirements for Seniors:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States

• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at one of the target colleges/universities on our website (complete list can be found here: Senior Scholarships)

• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower household income)

• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities

• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity

• Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0

• Be a United States citizen

The deadline for seniors is February 15, 2026. Apply at https://horatioalger.org/scholarships-and-services/undergraduate-scholarships/

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!

Marauder Athletics Update

Spring Sports Parent Meeting will be held Monday at 5:30 PM in the Mitchell Cafeteria. Families of students participating in girls soccer, baseball, and track & field are encouraged to attend. Coaches will review season expectations, important dates, and program information as we gear up for the spring season. We look forward to seeing you there!

Marauder Wrestlers gear up for Regionals!

Big congratulations to Jazmyn Williams for placing 4th and Katie Boggan for finishing 5th on Saturday at the Southern Colorado Metro League Tournament! Their hard work and determination continue to raise the standard for Marauder athletics. Next up — postseason time! The girls will compete at the Regional Tournament this Friday at Lewis-Palmer High School, with their sights set on earning a spot at the State Tournament in Denver the following weekend.

Unified has eyes set on Special Olympics Regionals

Our Unified Basketball team had a great experience Saturday competing at the Legend Round Robin at Parker High School. The Marauders battled hard in both contests, falling to Thunder Ridge in the opener and Rangeview in their final game of the day. The team is back in action this week as they host Coronado on Monday at 3:45 PM and then will proudly host the SE Regional Special Olympics on Sunday. We’re proud of the energy, sportsmanship, and heart our Unified athletes bring every time they step on the court!

Senior Night Tuesday vs. Sierra

Join us Tuesday night at 6pm as we celebrate our Girls Basketball Seniors when the Marauders take on Sierra! It’s also Orange Out Night — wear your Mitchell Orange and receive FREE admission to the games! Come out and honor our seniors while showing your Marauder pride!

Marauder Fine Arts Spotlight

Khylei Keller had an incredible experience this past weekend performing at the Buell Theatre in Denver as part of the prestigious Colorado All-State Choir! Khylei represented Mitchell in the Treble Choir, joining top vocalists from across the state for a powerful and memorable performance. Check out the Treble Choir Balcony Sing featuring their beautiful performance of “The Sun Never Says” by Dan Forrest — an unforgettable moment!

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DJEnkbApP/

Come out and support the Marauder Band this Thursday at 5:00 PM as they perform in the Colorado Bandmasters Association Festival, hosted right here at Mitchell High School! This is a great opportunity to hear our talented musicians showcase their hard work and represent Mitchell on our home stage. Let’s pack the auditorium and cheer them on!

Don’t miss our Unified production of Snow White and the Green Queen! Join us on the Mitchell stage this Thursday at 2:10 PM for what promises to be a fun, creative, and heartwarming performance. Our students have been working hard to bring this show to life, and we can’t wait to see the community there supporting them. Come out and enjoy the magic!

Marauder Sideline Store

Looking to refresh your Marauder gear? Find great deals at the Marauders Sideline Store! Shop online and stock up on your favorite Mitchell apparel to support our spring athletics and activities. From game-day essentials to everyday spirit wear, there’s something for every Marauder fan. Gear up and show your Mitchell pride all season long!

Marauder Sideline Store

Last week, CLDE students successfully completed the Listening and Reading portions of the WIDA ACCESS assessment. This week, students will complete the Speaking and Writing sections.

If a student is absent during their scheduled testing time, they will coordinate with their CLDE teacher to complete make-up testing.

Please reach out to Ms. Silva or Ms. Lavery with any questions. Thank you for supporting our students as they demonstrate their language growth and skills.