MARAUDERS WEEKLY

We are thrilled to announce that Lucy (Sarai Ruiz Smith) has been accepted to the prestigious Colorado School of Mines! Her incredible achievement reflects years of hard work and a stellar 4.3 weighted GPA. Lucy has also earned the President’s Scholar Award from Mines and the Dean Scholar Award from the University of Denver, totaling $14,000 in scholarships for tuition and housing. Please join us in congratulating Lucy on this outstanding success and bright future ahead!

Join MHS staff at our Monday General PLC as we celebrate the WINS of the semester.

Dear Mitchell High School Families,

As we close out the first semester and head into the winter break, I want to extend my appreciation for everything you have poured into our school community this year. Mitchell continues to demonstrate what is possible when we lean into the District 11 belief that each student is known by name, strength, and need, and graduates are prepared for life beyond high school.

Across the district, we are seeing evidence that intentionality matters. Whether it’s increasing achievement, strengthening engagement, or stabilizing enrollment, D11 and Marauders Nation is proving that when we focus on what matters most, students' growth and achievement, we outperform expectations. Our own progress at Mitchell, from moving out of turnaround and into priority improvement, to staffing stability and commitment, resulting in academic gains, reflects this momentum.

At the same time, this season can carry a mix of emotions. Superintendent Gaal recently reminded us that many in our community are navigating stress, loss, or uncertainty, and that well‑being should not be a luxury; it’s essential. Our message to our community is clear. You matter, and you do not have to carry difficult moments alone.

As we start the break, I encourage you to make time for rest, connection, and the things that help you feel balanced. Please take care of yourselves and those around you. For staff and families who need extra support, D11’s resources, like the Employee Assistance Program and Care Solace, are available during the break.

The holidays give us a chance to reset, reflect, and return ready to pursue our shared goals, ensuring that every student is learning at high levels, feels a sense of belonging, and experiences opportunities that prepare them for the future. Our vision of postsecondary readiness for all students is thriving at Mitchell because of our students' grit, our staff's dedication, and our families' partnership. Thank you.

From my family to yours, wishing each of you a season filled with peace, joy, healing, rest, and hope.

We’ll see you in 2026, renewed and ready to keep building and getting WINS!

Warmest holiday wishes,

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, January 8, 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

District 11 Food & Nutrition Services has created a helpful flyer for individuals and families in need. It includes resources for food assistance, pet food support, and assistance with utility bills. Please feel free to share this valuable tool with anyone who may benefit.