Class of 2029 Newsletter

Class of 2029 Families,

Hello cooler weather, family traditions and a fast paced Fall Semester 2! Somehow we are already approaching midterms and the halfway point of the semester. We also have a number of long weekends and holiday breaks around the corner. This time of year also brings illness and exhaustion. We want to remind students to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and only stay home if they are sick. We also ask families to avoid planning early vacations that will cause your student(s) to miss time in the classroom or finals. As a reminder the learning experience goes beyond completing work, lessons are being taught each day in class, and unnecessarily missing school may cause stress and anxiety for your student.

We are looking forward to a successful second half of Fall Semester 2

Mark your Calendar:

November 6: Staff Development Day - Minimum Day

November 10: No School

November 11: Veteran's Day - No School

November 12: Progress Reports Due - Fall Semester 2

November 14: Athletic Eligibility Determined

November 24 - 28: Thanksgiving Break - No School

December 10: Staff Development Day - Minimum Day

December 18 & 19: Finals - Fall Semester 2

December 22 - January 6: Winter Break - No School

January 7: First Day of Spring Semester 1

January 19: Martin Luther King Day - No School

January 21: Back to School Night

January 29: Parent Shadow Day/Staff Development Day - Minimum Day

February 9: Progress Reports Due - Spring Semester 1

February 11: Athletic Eligibility Determined

February 13: Lincoln's Day - No School

February 16: President's Day - No School

February 25: Staff Development Day - Minimum Day

Congratulations to the 315 - 9th graders who received Honor Roll for Fall Semester 1!

Students on this list earned a 3.5 GPA or better for the Fall Semester 1 marking period.

Congratulations to the 129 - 9th graders who had Perfect Attendance for Fall Semester 1!

Students on this list were at school everyday, on time, with no marks throughout the day for the Fall Semester 1 marking period.

Holden has grasped the concepts of Ethnic Studies and gone above and beyond with his new knowledge. Always putting his best foot forward in what he does, there is no question that he is a true proponent and advocate of Social Justice! -Mr. Todd, Ethnic Studies Teacher

Way to go Holden!

Giancarlo was a shining star Quarter 1, leading by example and doing his best whenever possible!

-Mr. Todd, Ethnic Studies Teacher

Great job Giancarlo!

Lekpea was a shining star Quarter 1, leading by example and doing her best whenever possible. She is such a fantastic student! -Mr. Todd, Ethnic Studies Teacher

Congrats Lekpea!

Naomi contributed to the team victory by placing 7th overall in the Grossmont Conference Hills League cluster meet. She is the 2nd fastest freshman on the team and in our conference.

Way to go Naomi!

Conan is a freshman on the varsity team that performed well at the league cluster meet. He recorded the top freshman time on the 3.22 miles course in the Grossmont Conference.

Great job Conan!

The Boys Beach Volleyball team had a great game against Sage Creek and won 4-1! They advanced to the semi-finals against University City, but lost in a well fought game 2-3. Two of the individual teams continued onto individual playoffs the last week of October.

Great job boys! Special shout-out to 9th graders, Caelan Bos, Tyler Kick, Peyton McNealy, and Jude Sabin on their success this season.

I want to express our School’s gratitude for your respectful behavior, positive attitude, hard work, perseverance, and success in and out of the classroom. The overall success of Helix is dependent on the character and work ethic of our students! THANK YOU for all your efforts!

If you would like to show your gratitude to a teacher, academic coach, athletic coach, GLT member, office staff, library staff, club/class advisor and/or administrator who has supported you in some way, please fill out this Compliment a Scottie Form. You can access this form anytime in the STUDENT drop down on our Helix webpage.

We will share your gratitude with this staff member as soon as we receive it .

Yearbooks are currently for sale for $75 at the Dawg House and through the student store.

The cost will increase to $85 in January and yearbooks SELL OUT, so buy one now if you are interested!

It is time to spread some holiday cheer and give back! The Class of 2029 Helix First is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive to help provide meals to families in need this season.

🧡 What to Bring: Canned meats (tuna, ham, chicken), canned soups, canned or dried fruits, rice, cereal, peanut butter or jelly, powdered milk, packaged nuts & seeds, dried pasta, and pasta or tomato sauce.

📅 Collection Dates: Monday, 11/3/25 - Wednesday, 11/19/25
📍 Drop-Off Location: Your Helix First classroom

💫 Earn Community Service Hours! Each item donated earns you 30 minutes of community service — up to 2 hours total, (4 items)!

🎉 Bonus: The Helix First class that collects the most food wins a party (details TBD)!

Let’s come together, show our gratitude, and make a difference this Thanksgiving. 🥫💚

As we welcome the fall and winter seasons with their festive cheer and traditions, it is also the time of year when colds, flu, and missed school days become more common. To support student wellness and learning, please keep your student home if they show signs of illness, such as a fever or vomiting. If your student is experiencing anxiety or stress please be sure to contact the Grade Level Team for support options. We also encourage families to avoid scheduling trips or vacations during school days, as missing school can create added stress for students.

Please mark these important dates on your calendar:

• Monday, 11/10/25 & Tuesday, 11/11/25: Veteran's Day (No School)
• Monday, 11/24/25 - Friday, 11/28/25: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
• Thursday, 12/18/25 & Friday, 12/19/25: Helix Fall Semester 2 Finals
• Monday, 12/22/25 - Tuesday, 1/6/26: Winter Break (No School)
• Wednesday, 1/7/26: Start of Spring Semester 1

The Helix Attendance Office would also like to share a few reminders:

• Students arriving late to school must go directly to the Attendance Office. Even if they arrive between class periods or at lunch.
• If a student needs to leave campus for any reason before their school day is over, they must first obtain an Off-Campus Pass.
• If a student becomes ill while at school, the student must report to the School Nurse’s Office with a pass from their teacher. The nurse will then notify the parent/guardian to determine if an early release from school is necessary.
• Students who leave campus early without authorization before leaving are considered truant and will be assigned a consequence.
• Parents/Guardians must notify the school of the reason for their student’s absence, as soon as it is known a student will be absent. Absences that are not cleared within three (3) school days will change to a truancy.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy and engaged!

Winter Formal will take place on Saturday, 1/31/25.

Here are a few reminders if you want to get cleared to attend the dance.

Helix is turning 75! 🎉

Throughout 2026, we will celebrate this incredible milestone with a series of fun events for students, staff, families, alumni and our amazing community. For more information, please visit helixcharter.net/75.

The celebration will kick off at our annual community breakfast this December!

Please join the Class of 2029 Grade Level Team on Thursday, 1/8/26 at 6:00pm in ExL (room 1600), as we discuss what to expect for the upcoming school year. We will review graduation requirements, course options, four-year plans and everything you need to know about selecting classes for next year.

As SNAP benefits change this year, we want to make sure all Helix families know about the many local food resources available across San Diego County. Access to nutritious food is essential for student well-being and success, and help is available for anyone who needs it.

🛒 Check out these local options:

• San Diego Hunger Coalition Resources: sdhunger.org

• Feeding San Diego: feedingsandiego.org/get-help

• San Diego Food Bank: sandiegofoodbank.org/get-food

• Meals on Wheels (for older adults): meals-on-wheels.org/get-meals

• Or simply dial 2-1-1 to find nearby food distributions and support.

You can also view the full Spring 2025 Food Assistance Flyer with more details about programs like CalFresh, SUN Bucks, and WIC below.

Let’s continue to support one another and make sure every student has the energy to learn and thrive. 🥗✨

Click below to check out the before and after school ASPIRE programs that are being offered during the Fall 2025 Term.

The DEN is a student-centered space that provides academic support both before school and after school Monday through Thursday in ExL (room 1600).

The DEN is staffed by Academic Coaches and Credentialed Teachers in order to provide student support and facilitate achievement. Students can drop in before school and/or after school to receive help in all subjects. The DEN will provide tutoring, remediation, test prep, test proctoring, timed writings, study groups and student-centered support in any academic capacity. See below for the daily schedule.

Every Thursday, Helix parents/guardians will receive an automated email notification if your student is currently failing one or more classes. The purpose of this call is to ensure that you are aware of your student's academic standing and to encourage timely intervention.

Students who receive this notification should attend tutorial sessions on Friday morning, starting at 8:30am, with their teacher(s). This will provide them with the necessary support to improve their grades and understanding of the subject matter.

Please review the tutorial schedule below.

A list of community service opportunities can be found by clicking the button below.

We encourage all Helix students, parents and guardians to join the PTSO! There is no commitment required, although you are welcome to attend the PTSO meetings (4th Wednesday of each month) and help volunteer at school events if you are interested!

The more members they have, the greater access they have to grants and programs that will support Helix students. Any students interested in applying for PTSO scholarships (they give out $5,000 each year) must be PTSA members. If you are interested in getting involved, please email Dave Hardenburger at helixptso@gmail.com.

The Helix PTSO needs your help recognizing some outstanding Helix teachers and staff. Please fill out this link to recognize some Helix All-Stars. They will be recognized in the all-staff monthly meetings.

The Helix Vocal Music Department presents Fall Cabaret on Thursday, 11/6/25 and Friday, 11/7/25 at 7pm in the Helix PAC.

All 5 Helix Choirs will be showcased and will feature specialty acts from our talented Helix singers!

Click here for tickets.

We are 8 school days away from progress reports, which are due on Wednesday, 11/12/25. 📉🤯📈

Please take advantage of Academic Support opportunities over the next 2 weeks to make sure you are passing all of your classes! 📚📝

Remember…these grades will be used to determine Athletic Eligibility on Friday, 11/14/25. If you are playing a winter sport, you must earn at least a 2.0 GPA to remain eligible. 🏀⚽🤼🤽🏼‍♂️

YOU GOT THIS!!⭐️💚🐾

The Helix Dance Fall Concert will be held in the Helix Charter High School Main Stage Theater on Thursday, 11/20/25 and Friday, 11/21/25 at 7pm.

PERFORMANCE DETAILS

• All ticket sales will be sold online only. No physical day-of box office sales.
• Pre-sale price for all tickets is $12/person. All ages, general admission.
• Tickets will be emailed to your email address with a QR code to scan for entry.
• Your ticket sales will be on a master list on the day of performance in case you forget your confirmation.
• Email Aisha Reddick with questions: reddick@helixcharter.net

Visit www.helixdancers.com for more information.

Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson, California State Senator, is excited to invite you to her Annual Fall Legislative Update, Health Fair, and Turkey Giveaway on Saturday, 11/22/25 at Madison High School. This community event is one of her favorite times of the year, as it brings together families, local partners, and neighbors to celebrate the season with gratitude, wellness, and connection.

You will have an opportunity to receive free health resources, learn more about local services, and take home a turkey for your family's holiday meal. She will also share updates on the work they have been doing in Sacramento to uplift and support our community.

EVENT DETAILS:
DATE: Saturday, 11/22/25
TIME: 10:00am - 1:00pm or while supplies last
LOCATION: Back of Madison High School (entrance is on Mt. Abernathy Ave.) Please follow the event signs when you arrive.

EVENT TIPS:

1. The event will be open on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last.
2. One turkey per household.
3. A member from each household must be present.
4. Be prepared to stand in line for an extended period.
5. Bring a cart to carry your turkey and food items as they can be heavy.
6. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
7. Bring an umbrella for shade and water to stay hydrated.

RSVP* today: SD39.SENATE.CA.GOV/TURKEY-GIVEAWAY-2025

*Food and Services not paid at Senate expense. Turkeys and any information, materials, or services provided at this event are the sole responsibility of the provider of the information. Materials, or services do not constitute services or medical advice from the California State Senate.

Helix’s 13th Annual Supporter’s Breakfast will be held on Friday, 12/5/25 from 8am-9am in the Helix Gym! All parents and community members are invited to join us for a special community event featuring a complimentary breakfast and exciting performances by the award-winning Helix Performing Arts Department!

It is a great morning to connect with the Helix community and highlight Helix’s recent accomplishments. You will hear from inspiring past and present students and learn about opportunities to assist us in our mission of preparing ALL STUDENTS to be college-ready and successful after graduating. Seats are limited, please only RSVP if you are able to attend.

Every Thursday at 6pm, Helix Staff or special guests present on different topics applicable to high school parents. These events are held in ExL (room 1600) and are open to the public. See below for our upcoming schedule. Visit www.helixcharter.net/FamilyFirst for more information and for links to previous recordings.

All Helix families are invited to join us for our first ELAC (English Learner Advisory Committee) meeting of the school year on Thursday, 11/6/25 from 6pm-7pm. Your involvement is vital in shaping a successful educational journey for all students. We value diversity and inclusivity and want to work together to support our English Learners and create a nurturing academic environment. We will present on ELAC's role in enhancing our students' education, connect with fellow parents and educators, cultivate a strong community focused on students' success and discuss insights and ideas on improving language programs.

This event will be held in the ExL building (room 1600. Doors will open at 5:45pm. Dinner will be provided, please RSVP here for food ordering purposes. Students are welcome to attend with parents/guardians. To ensure that all parents can participate, translation services will be available in various languages. Please indicate if you need translation on the RSVP form linked above.

Join us to learn about the new Environmental Science & Sustainability Pathway at Helix on Thursday, 11/13/25 from 6pm-7pm. Parents, students, and community members will hear about the pathway’s courses, hands-on learning experiences, and the skills students will gain for college and careers in the growing green economy. Meet the teachers leading the program, explore real-world projects that prepare students to address today’s environmental challenges, and discover the exciting opportunities this pathway offers.

This event will be held in the ExL building (room 1600). Registration is not required. Students aare welcome to attend. Please park in the staff lot located at 7323 University, above the big H. This is the entrance from University & Yale. ExL is located next to the Cafeteria. Snacks will be provided.

For translation services, click here.

The ASPIRE program is a federally funded grant awarded through the San Diego County Office of Education. The county selects schools to include in the After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens (ASSETs) grant and Helix has been awarded this grant for over 15 years!

This grant affords before-and-after-school programming for students in the following areas: enrichment, sports, and academics. Our ASPIRE programs are inclusive and comprehensive of so many areas of interest and because of the grant we are given, we are able to purchase special supplies and pay the instructors. Contact us with any questions by email at helixaspire@helixcharter.net.

The Wellness Center is here to support you and your family with any social-emotional needs.

If students need support during school, they can drop by their Grade Level Team in the Admin Building or the Wellness Center, located at the back of the school by the IT service window. If you would like to get in contact with the Wellness Center, you can reach them at HWC@helixcharter.net or by phone at 619-644-1940 x580.

Here are the different types of support offered by the Wellness Center:

• Individual check-ins

• Support groups

• Consultation/collaboration with families, administration, School Psychologists, teachers, coaches, etc.

• Crisis intervention

• Referrals to therapy/community support services

• Home visits

• Parent workshops

• Homeless/foster care/military liaison

• Project Safe (Human & Labor Trafficking) liaison

Parent's Guide to Mental Health & Wellness

Guia Para Padres de Salud y Bienestar Mental

Looking for a mental health provider but not sure where to start?

You are not alone, this can be the biggest barrier to getting help. Helix partners with Care Solace to help solve this problem. Care Solace helps individuals find mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers. Their Care Companion™ team is available any time of day to quickly connect you to carefully verified providers in your community. Students, staff, and families may access Care Solace services in two ways:

• Call (888) 515-0595 at any time. Support is available in 200+ languages. A dedicated Care Companion™ will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments, and follow up to make sure it is a good fit.

• For an anonymous search, answer a few questions to get matched with an extensive list of care providers at www.caresolace.com/helixcharter

For more information, visit the Wellness Center's website by clicking the button above.

Ms. Arica Villegas - Grade Level Principal

Mrs. Yolanda Street - School Counselor

Ms. Danika Markey - Academic Advisor

Ms. Sara Brown - Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Brenda Flores - Attendance Technician

Mrs. Danielle Yee - School Social Worker

Ms. Cynthia Jones - Assistant Manager, Academic Support Program