USC High School March Newsletter

March has already proven to be a busy and productive time for our students and families. On March 26, our 7th and 8th grade students began Trimester 3, while students in grades 9–12 entered Quarter 4. This final stretch of the school year is filled with many milestones and exciting events, culminating in graduation for the Class of 2026 on May 29.

In preparation for the upcoming Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) tests beginning April 8, teachers have been working diligently to support student readiness. These assessments provide valuable insight into how well our curriculum aligns with state standards and offer students an opportunity to demonstrate their academic growth. Families are encouraged to help students perform their best by ensuring they get adequate rest and eat a healthy breakfast on testing days.

Important MCA and ACT test dates include:

• April 8-13. MCA Grade 8 Science - during science class

• April 13- 16. MCA Math grades 7, 8, 11
• April 13-16. MCA Biology during Biology class
• April 21. ACT grade 11, PreACT grade 10, WorkKeys grade 12
• April 27-30 MCA Reading grades 7, 8, 10 during English class

The arrival of March also brings the promise of spring; a season of renewal, growth, and new beginnings. Our students embraced this spirit by celebrating FFA Week at the end of February, followed by Spring Week from March 23–27, which included a variety of engaging and spirited activities. In addition, spring athletic seasons are now underway, with competitions beginning this week and providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents and teamwork.

As we move through the final quarter, students are encouraged to remain focused, stay organized, and continue putting forth their best effort in their coursework and activities. We are grateful for the continued support and encouragement from parents and family members. The partnership between home and school plays a vital role in student success, and we sincerely appreciate all you do to support our students and school community.

With Gratitude,

Jen Bye

High School/Middle School Principal

jbye@unitedsouthcentral.org

Congratulations to Jaiden Gossen, the March Renaissance Student of the Month.

Jaiden is enjoying a reserved parking spot and first-in-line lunch privileges throughout March. Her commitment to academic excellence, involvement in volleyball and band, along with her outstanding work ethic, sets a positive example for all students.

USC is proud to recognize and celebrate Jaiden!

Students in eighth grade performed Jack and the Beanstalk on February 24th. This familiar tale was wonderfully executed by the students who worked hard to audition, learn parts, create costumes, and perform the play in just one week of rehearsal time. A special thank you to Josh Edwards, who directed the play and as well as to Rosemary and Tim Schwartz for their creative talents to help construct the set and costumes. A big thank you goes out to the high school theater students who assisted in making the entire production run smoothly for our students.

Ninth grade students attended Career Navigator on February 28 at South Central College as part of our ongoing career exploration opportunities. During this event, students participated in a series of short sessions with professionals representing a wide range of careers across the career pathway spectrum. This experience allowed students to explore fields they may not have previously considered and gain insight into the many opportunities available to them after graduation.

The USC National Honor Society sponsored a blood drive on February 25th. Students had the opportunity of giving this selfless gift of saving lives through their donation. Many students, staff, and community members participated to help support hospitals and patients in need. The event not only collected valuable blood donations but also raised awareness about the importance of regularly giving blood to help save lives.

Savanna Edwards, Brody Winstead, Brody Walker, Jada Goldman, and Noah Hartman participated in the state robotics tournament on March 5 as members of our VEX Robotics team. VEX Robotics provides students with hands-on experience in designing, building, and programming robots to complete specific challenges, while also developing skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Their participation in the state tournament reflects their dedication, innovation, and countless hours of preparation, and are proud of them as they represented our school.

Juniors attended Career Day at Minnesota State University, Mankato on March 12 as part of their continued career exploration efforts. During the event, students selected three sessions featuring speakers in career fields they were interested in learning more about, gaining valuable insight into potential future pathways. Students also had the opportunity to experience campus life by spending time in the student union during lunch. Throughout the year, juniors have participated in several activities designed to help them explore career options as they begin making important decisions about their plans after high school.

The Maple River/United South Central Longhorns wrestling team was represented at the State Wrestling Tournament, held February 26–28, by standout wrestler Noah Gonzalez. Gonzalez earned his place at state after finishing second at 139 pounds in the Section 2AA Wrestling Tournament, securing his spot among the top competitors in Minnesota.

Students celebrated National FFA Week February 23rd - 27th with dress up days to highlight the work of our local chapter. FFA members develop a wide range of technical, leadership, and interpersonal skills. These include public speaking, parliamentary procedure, and career preparation. Students also learn agricultural skills such as welding and mechanics, livestock care, and teamwork. Through hands-on activities and competitive events, members gain valuable real world experience. These opportunities help prepare students for careers in agriculture and other professions while encouraging leadership and personal development.

Eighth grade students recently completed the dragster car project in their technology class. This hands-on project helps students explore engineering principles while developing problem solving skills. Students designed their cars, cut them out using a band saw, and then assembled and painted their creations. The exciting final step of the project is a race, where the cars are propelled down the track using a CO₂ cartridge.

USC students celebrated Spring Week from March 23–27 with a variety of fun and spirited activities. Throughout the week, students participated in themed dress-up days, including Pajama Day, Class Flower (Color Day), Hawaiian Day, Jersey Day, and Froggy Friday.

The celebration also featured engaging daily activities such as a dirt cup treat on Monday, a trivia contest on Tuesday, a drawing contest on Wednesday, and bingo with prizes on Friday. Students showed off their creativity by designing “Reggie” in a springtime setting, along with eye-catching posters created by talented artistic teams. The week was filled with school spirit, creativity, and opportunities for students to connect and have fun together.

Students in grades 7 and 8 enjoyed a memorable evening at the Spring Fling dance on March 21, sponsored by FCCLA. Dressed to impress, students spent the night connecting with classmates and taking part in a variety of activities. Highlights included a free throw contest, learning new group dances, and enjoying snacks with friends.

FCCLA members kept the energy high by serving as DJs, assisting at the concession stand, and encouraging everyone to join in the fun. Special thanks to Josh Edwards, Nathan Scruggs, and Nikki Feist for chaperoning and helping make the event a success.

USC has a Senior High Knowledge Bowl team headed to state competition. USC Green, comprised of Seniors Wyatt Haugh, Seth Kayser, Ian McQueen and Maddex Niebuhr qualified for the state competition after placing 2nd at the Regional event on March 5. The competition will take place April 9-10 at Cragun’s near Brainerd, MN. Congratulations!

Seventh grade students worked to design a game with a point system as part of their Gateway to Technology class. Students working in teams built their games from cardboard pieces and decorated the games to show their theme and style. The projects allowed students to refine skills in planning, execution, and team work.

Students in Ms. Allis' Art Foundations class practiced their weaving skills to create vibrant pieces. Students designed scenes ranging from wildlife depictions to abstract patterns. They explored color, texture, and composition as they developed their projects. Each finished piece reflected the creativity and unique perspective of its artist.

Students in grades 7 and 8 had the opportunity to view Screenagers on March 20 at USC. This thought-provoking film explores the impact of screen time, social media, and technology on adolescents, highlighting both the benefits and challenges students face in today’s digital world.

Following the viewing, students engaged in meaningful discussions about healthy screen habits, the importance of balance, and strategies for managing technology use in their daily lives. The film encouraged students to reflect on their own habits and consider ways to build stronger connections both online and offline.

This experience provided valuable insight and supported ongoing efforts at USC to promote student well-being, responsible decision-making, and digital citizenship.

Seniors

It is scholarship season! Ms. Klemek has been emailing you scholarship opportunities and deadline reminders. Please remember to check her website for up-to-date information! There are many scholarships due between now and mid-April.

College and Career Assessments

Our 10th-12th graders will be taking our College and Career Assessments on April 21. This allows students to have a test score to use at a 4 year college, or for placement at a 2-year program.

Sophomores: Pre-ACT (as preparation for the ACT during their Junior year)

Juniors: ACT (this will be taken off-site and more information will be sent closer to the test date)

Seniors: WorkKeys (this is our career-readiness assessment that allows students to show the practical application of the skills they have learned in high school and earn a National Career Readiness Certificate!)

2026 Scholarship and Honors Program: Tuesday, May 12 at 9am in the USC Auditorium

Upcoming Dates:

April 15- 10th grade Career Expo field trip (leave time of 7:45am)

April 21- Pre-ACT, ACT and WorkKeys Assessments (10th-12th graders)

May 12- Scholarship and Honors Program

Free Online ACT Prep Questions

Upcoming College Planning Series (Open to all students, there is a scholarship giveaway for those who attend):

04/21/2026 @ 7pm – Key Conversations Before College Begins

REGISTER HERE

• April 3-6. April Break
• April 8. MCA Testing begins

• April 8-13. MCA Grade 8 Science - during science class

• April 13- 16. MCA Math grades 7, 8, 11
• April 13-16. MCA Biology during Biology class
• April 15. Grade 10 Career Expo
• April 20-21 State FFA Convention
• April 21. ACT grade 11, PreACT grade 10, WorkKeys grade 12
• April 27-30 MCA Reading grades 7, 8, 10 during English class
• April 30 - Grades 7 & 8 to Farm America