High School - 8/27

What an exciting day it was for our school community! We kicked off our much anticipated House System with an unforgettable House Launch Day! The festivities began in the gym, where students were introduced to our four houses. Students were excited as they opened their envelopes to discover which house they would be representing! Once the big reveal was complete, students organized themselves with their fellow house members and made their way out to Inspire Field for the very first House Games! Students competed enthusiastically, giving their all to earn valuable points for their houses.

With increased AI use, it is a priority for us to teach acceptable AI use at school with regard to assigned coursework. Please take a few minutes to read through the AI Use Policy as this is what will be taught to students and enforced in the classroom.

This year we are strengthening our enforcement of the cell phone policy. In order to help us enforce the policy, if your child 1) does not have a cell phone, or 2) does not bring their phone to school, please complete the attached form and return it to Mrs. Andrea Shoup, Assistant Principal, by email or dropping it off at school.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Shoup directly.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff, we have implemented an updated bag policy.

What You Need to Know

• Students will not be permitted to carry backpacks or messenger bags throughout the school day
• This policy applies to all hallways, classrooms, cafeteria, etc...
• This decision was made in response to increased student population in our building, which has resulted in more crowded common areas and classrooms

Why This Policy Matters

The safety of every student and staff member is our top priority. With our growing school community, it is important that we take proactive steps to:

• Keep hallways and classrooms clear and accessible
• Reduce overcrowding in shared spaces
• Create a safer environment for everyone

What You Need to Know

• Each student has been given 15 hallway passes per quarter to use during class time.
• We are continuously evaluating this number to ensure it is the right number of passes and may make adjustments as needed.
• Students are encouraged to utilize passing periods between classes for bathroom and other hallway needs.

Why This Policy Matters

Over the past couple of years, we have noticed a significant increase in students spending time in the hallways during instructional time, including extended absences from the classroom. This policy was created to:

• Keep students engaged in their learning during class time
• Reduce unnecessary time spent in the hallways
• Help students develop important time management skills
• Maximize valuable instructional time

Working Together

We believe that partnership with families is key to success of this policy. Your support in encouraging your child to:

• Plan ahead and use passing periods wisely
• Use passes responsibly throughout the quarter
• Communicate with their teachers if they have concerns

On Tuesday, September 29th, Dr. Rachel David and I will be hosting a Parent Meeting for all Middle & High School students (Grades 5-12). This meeting will include a deep dive into the House System as well as other important update.

Time: 5:30PM

Location: MCA Cafeteria

Below is the Weekly Schedule for Grades 7-12 for the 2026-2027 school year.

We are piloting the Work/Internship Program for the 2026-2027 school year with a small group of eligible students.

The Work Program provides eligible juniors and seniors with the opportunity to earn academic credit while gaining valuable work experience, developing professional skills, and exploring future career interests.

Students leave campus for 1 class period per semester (H Period) to work for a job or internship. Students must work a minimum of 8-10 hours per week.

Employment may be paid or unpaid (internship-based) provided it meets program requirements.

Students enrolled in the Work Program may leave campus during H Period after signing out through Student Services. Students are not required to report directly to work during that class period. However, students are expected to fulfill the required number of work hours each week and remain in good standing within the program.

For the 2026-2027 school year, MCA will pilot the Work Program. Interested students may apply by filling out a Work Program Application and turning it into the College & Career Center (CCC). Administration will choose a small group of students per semester who may participate in the program.

As a new school year is upon us, please take a moment to refresh your memory on our parking lot flowchart and assigned parking areas for families and students.

• Wednesday, September 2: All School Picture Day
• Friday, September 4: No School, Professional Development Day
• Monday, September 7: No School, Labor Day
• Tuesday, September 29: Middle & High School Parent Meeting (5:30PM)