Thunderings from DHHS

The Desert Hills debate squad is gearing up for tournaments after the Christmas break, with five more tournaments, and district qualifiers in March. If you can help judge a tournament, please contact the school at 674-0885.

Theatre students performed “The Curious Savage” and scenes from “The Miracle Worker” on Dec. 15. Auditions were held for the spring play, “The Foreigner.”
Marcee Christensen’s Child Development classes held a preschool day on Tuesday, Dec. 14, where kids 3 to 6 enjoyed student-planned activities.

The Thunder BOLTS (Building Our Lives Through Service) collected 540 canned food donations for Dixie Care and Share in December and provided Christmas presents and groceries for a needy family.

This year’s Senior Ball on Jan. 8 will combine formal elegance with selfless service, with several service projects available to students to replace the usual day-date expense. See advisor Janna Neville for more information.

The first semester ends on Friday. Boys and girls basketball and wrestling continue through the break, so don’t forget to come support the teams. Game times are on the school calendar, online at dhthunder.org.

We wish our Desert Hills family a joyous Christmas and look forward to starting the second semester on Tuesday, Jan. 4.

Pictured above: Senior Laura Dalton and junior Rachel Seegmiller share the masks they created for Psychology class to express their inner personalities.

Thunderings from DHHS

Desert Hills debate is doing great! Celeste Reese placed first in oration at the Redman Ruckus tournament, Dec. 4. Julianna Hummel took first in humorous interpretation, and Megan Tholen placed second in dramatic interpretation. Debate coach Mike Eaton needs judges for January tournaments; call the school if you can help.

Theatre students will perform two plays on Dec. 15: “The Curious Savage,” at 4 and 6 p.m., and scenes from “The Miracle Worker,” at 8 p.m. Admission is free.

Marcee Christensen’s Child Development classes will hold a preschool day on Tuesday, Dec. 14, with student-planned activities. Kids 3 to 6 are invited to one of two sessions. Contact Mrs. Christensen for more information.

The DHHS Concert Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 14.

The Thunder BOLTS (Building Our Lives Through Service) collected canned food donations for Dixie Care and Share and monetary donations to an Angel Money Tree to help DHHS families who have lost loved ones or are struggling with catastrophic illness. Students donated 524 cans of food.

This year’s Senior Ball on Jan. 8 will combine formal elegance with selfless service, with several service projects available to students to replace the usual day-date expense. See advisor Janna Neville for more information.

Pictured above: Creative Writing students help each other with ideas for their short stories during class.

Thunderings from DHHS

Desert Hills presents Fine Arts Night on Monday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. Enjoy student art and LaRagelles Dance Company. The choir gives a holiday concert on Wednesday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m., and the orchestra performs on Thursday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. Visitors to the Dickens’ Festival can see our Divina Voce women’s choir sing at 3:30 and the Voci d’Oro chamber choir perform at 4 p.m.

Congratulations to DHHS Rodeo athletes who lassoed honors at the Dixie 6 High School Rodeo: Tanner Atkin, Zane and Dax Barnson, Lane Burgess, and Kyna Hafen.

The English department will offer prep sessions before the Dec. 11 ACT: Monday and Wednesday, Dec. 6 and 8, 3 to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday, Dec. 7 and 9, 7 to 8 p.m. Sessions are $5 each. Sign up and pay in the finance office. Check with the math department regarding ACT prep sessions.

The Thunder BOLTS (Building Our Lives Through Service) is asking for donations to our school-wide canned food drive to benefit Dixie Care and Share and monetary donations to an Angel Money Tree to help DHHS families who have lost loved ones or are struggling with catastrophic illness.

Pictured above: Senior Carter Mills ties a donation to the Angel Money Tree in the commons.

Thunderings from DHHS

The Desert Hills chamber choir, “Voci d’Oro,” and the women’s choir, “Divina Voce,” performed at the Jubilee of Trees, Nov. 21, and perform at the Dickens’ Festival, 3:30 to 4:30 on Wednesday, Dec. 1.

Our own Kyna Hafen took first place in Break-away Roping and Goat Tying at the “Dixie-6” rodeo and won “All Around Cowgirl.”

Maddy Forsyth auditioned for Dixie’s Got Talent and made it to the next round, among just five selected in her age group. Maddy will perform on Jan. 18 and vie to be one of two finalists for the final competition on Jan. 19.

The English department will offer ACT prep sessions before the next ACT on Dec. 11. Sessions will be Monday and Wednesday, Dec. 6 and 8, 3 to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday, Dec. 7 and 9, 7 to 8 p.m. Sessions are $5 each. Sign up and pay in the finance office.

Sterling Scholar applications are due Tuesday, Nov. 30, to Mrs. Lowe.

The Thunder BOLTS (Building Our Lives Through Service) is asking for donations to our school-wide canned food drive, Nov. 30 to Dec. 10, to benefit Dixie Care and Share and monetary donations to an Angel Money Tree to help school community families who have lost loved ones or are facing serious illness.

Thunderings from DHHS

Treat yourself to an evening of delightful comedy, music, and dance at Thunder Productions' "Hello Dolly!" on the DHHS stage Nov. 18-20 and 22, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at 674-0885.


The English department will offer ACT prep sessions before the next ACT on Dec. 11. Sessions will be Monday and Wednesday, Dec. 6 and 8, 3 to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday, Dec. 7 and 9, 7 to 8 p.m. Sessions are $5 each. Sign up and pay in the finance office.

Sterling Scholar applications are due Tuesday, Nov. 30, to Mrs. Lowe.
Looking to shorten your Christmas shopping? The junior class is selling See’s candy and See’s gift certificates suitable for mailing or slipping into Christmas stockings. The fundraiser is for junior class projects and dances. Call 674-0885 for more information.

Annual and Winter sports passes are for sale in the finance office and online at myschoolfees.com. Passes are available for families, couples, singles and seniors.
We are grateful for our supportive school community and wish everyone a delicious and cheerful Thanksgiving. There will be no classes Wednesday through Friday.

Thunderings from DHHS

Desert Hills earned a six-year accreditation recommendation from the visiting accreditation team last week. The team especially noted our students’ pride in their school and the excellent rapport between students and teachers and among the entire staff.

We paid respect to military veterans with a flag ceremony and patriotic assembly produced by senior Andrew Justvig. Our band marched in Veterans Day parades in Washington and St. George.

Linda Brown's Computer Repair students have been working hard this semester to learn about all the parts inside the computer and how they work together. This week, they have been working on a much-anticipated "Tear Apart Lab," in which students disassemble a computer to the bare case and then rebuild the machine using the same parts. This is the first year DHHS has offered this industry certification course.

Our debate team took fourth place in sweepstakes at the Bulldog Invitational at Virgin Valley last week, competing against more than 200 participants.

The DHHS Orchestra will perform at the Southern Utah String Festival at Pine View Middle School, Saturday, Nov. 13, at 8 p.m. This will be the orchestra’s premier performance of the school year.

Don’t miss "Hello Dolly!" coming to the DHHS stage Nov. 18-20 and 22, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and may be purchased at the door or in advance at 674-0885.

Pictured above: Students and staff of Desert Hills remember America’s fallen soldiers and honor those who have served and are serving to protect our country during a flag-raising ceremony before class on Veterans Day.

Thunderings from DHHS

This week was busy at Desert Hills. A team of educators spent Thursday and Friday observing classes and talking to students and staff as part of their evaluation of our school for accreditation, our first as a new school. Students in Mrs. Johnson's Culinary Arts program planned, prepared and catered a luncheon for the visiting team and the entire school staff.

Parent-teacher conferences took place Wednesday and Thursday. We appreciate parents who attended and met with their students' teachers.

Our debate team competes again Nov. 6 at Virgin Valley, Mesquite, and our football team heads to state quarterfinals at Delta, Saturday, 1-4 p.m.

Congratulations to Students of the Month Eric Hall, senior; Jasmine Candland, junior; and Kortnee Lytle, sophomore.

Monday, Nov. 8, will be an early out for students to accommodate faculty professional development meetings.

Desert Hills will honor military veterans with an assembly on Nov. 11, and our band will participate in a Veterans Day marching competition.
Get ready for "Hello Dolly!" coming to the DHHS stage Nov. 18-20 and 22, 7:30 p.m.

Pictured above:

Students in Mr. Malm’s Physics class learned about the proportionality of force, mass and acceleration by applying the principle to launching small “rockets” across the commons.

Mr. Webb’s Sports Medicine students practiced taping up “injured” wrists, ankles and arches.

Thunderings from DHHS

Our Computer Programming II students came away with the grand prize at an intensive three-day “Code Camp,” where they were the only high school students competing against local businesses and college programming students. Our students were invited to attend when the St. George economic development department, which hosted the event, learned of IT teacher Linda Brown’s students’ robotics programming. Congratulations!

Congratulations also to our boys golf team, who took second at the State 3A tournament. DHHS football battles in quarterfinals on Saturday, Nov. 6, 1-4 p.m.
Our debate team performed admirably in their tournament at Foothill High in Las Vegas. Julianna Hummel placed first in humorous interpretation, and Megan Tholen placed sixth in dramatic interpretation. Their next tournament is Nov. 6 at Virgin Valley, Mesquite.

Desert Hills basketball players and coaches will lead Wednesday evening fundamentals and Saturday morning games in Jr. Thunder Basketball Instructional League during November and December for boys and girls in grades 3-8. Registration is $40 after Oct. 22 Contact Coach Allred. Registration forms are available in the main office.

Congratulations to Students of the Month Alexa Suwyn, senior; Nicole Winona, junior; and Whitni Atkin, sophomore.

Parent-teacher conferences are Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 3-4, 4-7 p.m.

Pictured above:

Mrs. Armstrong and her Drama students performed in the Shakespearean Festival high school competition at SUU.

Thunder Productions Tech Crew are busy building sets and scenery for the musical "Hello Dolly!" coming to our stage Nov. 18-22.

Thunderings from DHHS

We began the second quarter this week and have a slew of exciting events, activities, and learning opportunities in store for students.

Our automotive program was recently approved for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) after rigorous evaluation of the DHHS program. Certification assures graduates will be employable entry-level technicians.

Culinary Arts students gave faculty another taste of their talents by planning, preparing and catering a delicious staff luncheon yesterday. The students will prepare a luncheon for the visiting school accreditation committee in November.

Japanese Club, Creative Writing and Language Arts students wrote letters to military service personnel serving overseas, to arrive in time for the holidays. It was touching to see the students’ enthusiasm for the project in their support of our troops.

Our debate team headed today to their next tournament at Foothill High in Las Vegas. Debate coach Mr. Eaton is still looking for volunteers to help judge at events.

Desert Hills basketball players and coaches will lead Wednesday evening fundamentals and Saturday morning games in Jr. Thunder Basketball Instructional League during November and December for boys and girls in grades 3-8. Registration is $40 after Oct. 22 Contact Coach Allred. Registration forms are available in the main office. Read the school newspaper online at dhthunder.org.

Pictured above: Auto shop students make repairs on donated vehicles during class. The DHHS auto shop program recently achieved national ASE certification.

Thunderings from DHHS

Girls tennis deserves a round of applause for winning the state championship – for the third straight year!
Desert Hills basketball players and coaches will lead Wednesday evening fundamentals and Saturday morning games in Jr. Thunder Basketball Instructional League during November and December for boys and girls in grades 3-8. Registration is $35 before Oct. 22 ($40 late registration). Contact Coach Allred at callred@dhthunder.org. Registration forms are available in the main office.
Our debate team stepped into the spotlight at the Dixie High Tournament last weekend, with Celeste Reese placing third in varsity oration, Christian Larsen taking second in novice oration, Arianna Curlis placing fifth in novice dramatic interpretation, and Julianna Hummel scoring first place in novice humorous. Their next tournament is Oct. 22-23 at Foothill High in Las Vegas. Please contact debate coach Mr. Eaton if you can volunteer to help judge.
Seniors who haven’t taken the ACT should register to take the test this fall. Juniors should take the college admissions test before their senior year. Go to actstudent.org to register. The English department will offer a two-session ACT test-preparation before and after school prior to each test date, beginning Oct. 19-22. Sessions are $5 each. Contact the office for more information.
Math Enhancement is available during lunch, Wednesday – Friday.
Students in Marcee Christensen's Child Development class are creating PowerPoint safety presentations. Mrs. Neville's English seniors have finished their study of The Canterbury Tales and are now writing 22 lines of rhyming couplets about a personal pilgrimage they would take. Creative Writing students are writing print and video advertisements for imaginary new products. Mrs. Johnson's Culinary Arts students prepared and catered a delicious multi-course luncheon for the faculty earlier this month.
The first quarter closed Thursday, and the second quarter begins Tuesday, Oct. 19.

Pictured above: Andrew Justvig, a senior drama student, portrays Caliban from Shakespeare's Tempest at the Utah Shakespearean High School Competition in Cedar City, Oct. 8-9.

Thunderings from DHHS

Debate team competes in its first tournament today and tomorrow at Dixie High, while advanced drama students and dance team compete at the Utah Shakespearean High School Festival in Cedar City.
Five Desert Hills students from the Sports Medicine class volunteered at the St. George Marathon finish line, giving ice massages to marathoners.
Twelve members of our Voci d'Oro Chamber Choir will join 700 of the best high school choir students in All-State Choir this weekend: Kyler Brinkerhoff, Alex Graff, Kyle Hendrixson, Kat Jack, Cami Johnson, Stephen Montague, Lisa Ott, Ashlea Patterson, Emily Poulton, Tanner Sullivan, Alex Warr and Ashlee Weller.
Eight FCCLA students from DHHS will attend the Fall Leadership conference in Layton: Brooklyn Clayton, Melanie deVita, Ann Empey, Bree Hansen, Mckinzie Madsen, Sarah McComb, Kayla Nay and Kasidy Vernon.
Seniors who haven’t taken the ACT should register to take the test this fall. Seniors need an ACT score to apply for most colleges and for Sterling Scholar. Go to actstudent.org to register.
Math Enhancement for those needing additional help in their classes is available during lunch, Wednesday – Friday.
The first quarter closes on Thursday, Oct. 14, followed by a four-day breather. The second quarter begins Oct. 19.

Pictured above: Bryanna Karrati was selected as Student of the Issue for the Sept. 30 Thunderstruck. Meet Bryanna, read Megan Williams' serial murder mystery set in St. George, and more in the online issue at dhthunder.org.

Thunderings from DHHS

We are sweeping toward the end of the first quarter, on Oct. 14. Parents and students, check for missing assignments and final assignment due dates posted on Power School.
The next PTSA meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 5, at 11:15 a.m. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP if you will be attending.
Our debate team will compete in their first tournament, Oct. 8-9 at Dixie High. Advisor Mr. Eaton needs adult volunteers to help judge at tournaments – no debate experience is needed. Please contact Mr. Eaton if you can help.
Advanced drama students will perform at the Utah Shakespearean High School Festival in Cedar City, Oct. 8-9. Our dance team, La Ragelles, will also compete.
Mrs. Richardson’s psychology students are identifying their own physical and personality characteristics and analyzing whether the trait is from nature (heredity) or nurture (environment)—or both. Students will display their traits in a collage of pictures for presentation.
Seniors who haven’t taken the ACT should register to take the test this fall. Seniors must have an ACT score to apply for most colleges and for Sterling Scholar. Go to actstudent.org to register. Test preparation materials are available online also.
Sterling Scholar applications are due to advisor Mrs. Lowe by Tuesday, Nov. 30.
Purchase your yearbook now at the advance price of $45. A personalized cover is available for an extra $10. Pay online at myschoolfees.com. Parents of seniors, watch your mail for a letter about submitting a congratulatory ad in the yearbook.

Pictured: DHHS cheerleaders hosted a cheer camp for kids this week. The cheerleaders-in-training will perform during halftime at Friday's home game against Snow Canyon.

Pictured: Megan Williams and Mckay Cummings rehearse for "Hello Dolly!" coming to the DHHS stage, Nov. 18-22.

Thunderings from DHHS

There's a lot to cheer about at Desert Hills. In fact, DHHS will host a cheer clinic Monday through Thursday, Sept. 27-30, 4-5 p.m. Cheer clinic participants will perform at half-time of the football game on Friday, Oct. 1. Registration is $25 and includes a cheer T-shirt. Register Monday, 3:30 p.m. in the DHHS gym. Contact cheer advisor Patty Richardson for more information.
Congratulations to the 13 DHHS seniors of 2010 who earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams: Skyler Almquist, Makenzie Bakker (class of 2011), Nina Bany, Kyle Boice, Megan Buckway, Christian Clayton, Tawni Durrant, Brady Johnson, Erin Kolu, Kristine Merkel, Adam Ott, Casey Spilker and Hilary Wright.
This year's seniors interested in applying for Sterling Scholar need to meet with advisor Mrs. Lowe after school on Wednesday, Sept. 29.
Ms. Kerksiek's art students traveled north to Art Day on Cedar Mountain, a competition in painting, drawing, and 3-D objects. Three cheers to Thita Tunlayadechanont for bringing home second place and Alexis Glauser, third, in the painting category.
Julie Kirk, internationally renowned sidewalk street artist, demonstrated sidewalk painting to DHHS art students on Monday and led students in creating their own street art.
Mrs. Neville's 12th grade English students are completing projects about heroes in literary history, from Beowulf to King Arthur. Projects include photographic essays, songs, poems, paintings, and PowerPoint and Prezi presentations.
Students in Mr. Turley's health classes created hero cards honoring someone who exemplified good character traits. After students presented their personal heroes, their cards became part of a "hero wall" display in the classroom. On Thursday, guest speaker Lisa Osmond talked to students about organ donation.
Our choir performs a concert at the St. George Tabernacle on Sept. 30 at 7 p.m.
The debate squad will attend their first tournament, Oct. 8-9 at Dixie High. The program is in great need of volunteers to help judge. No formal debate experience is necessary. Contact advisor Michael Eaton and help keep the debate program alive at Desert Hills.
Excitement is building and student actors are rehearsing for "Hello Dolly!" coming to the DHHS stage Nov. 18-22. Advanced drama students are preparing to perform at the Utah Shakespearean High School Festival competition in Cedar City, Oct. 8-9.

Pictured above:
Mr. Turley points to students' personal hero cards posted on the "hero wall" in the classroom.

Senior art student Laura Dalton creates sidewalk art after internationally acclaimed sidewalk artist Julie Kirk presented a lesson to Ms. Kirksiek's class.

Thunderings from DHHS

Interesting things are happening in our classrooms. For example, Marcee Christensen's Child Development students were fascinated by guest speaker Patty Leishmann from IHC. Maybe it was the placenta, amniotic sac and umbilical cord she brought to illustrate her discussion of labor and delivery.
In Creative Writing class, local author and ZNHA executive director Lyman Hafen spoke to students about his experiences in becoming a writer and getting published.
Advanced Drama students are preparing to perform at the Utah Shakespearean High School Festival in Cedar City on Oct. 8-9. Our talented dance team, La Ragelles, will also compete. Congratulations to Heather Hansen and Megan Williams for landing the lead role of Dolly Levi in "Hello Dolly!" which comes to the DHHS stage Nov. 18-22. Wyatt Shepherd and Jace Smethurst play the male lead, Horace Vandergelder.
Our choir performs a concert at the St. George Tabernacle on Sept. 30 at 7 p.m.
Friday marks the first quarter midterm. Parents, progress reports will be sent home with students. Please remember, too, that most teachers have websites with class information. Look for the faculty links on our school website, dhthunder.org. Additionally, please check Power School regularly to see your student's progress and upcoming assignments.


Pictured above:

Desert Hills students vied to be the greatest Thunder Family Team during a Family Feud game created by FCCLA president Sarah McComb to promote club awareness.

Thunderings from DHHS

Last week's Homecoming activities were spirited fun for students and staff. Sincere thanks to the Exec Council and advisor Mrs. Wallace for their hard work in planning and preparing Homecoming week. Thanks also to our Desert Hills community for participating in our annual tailgate party before the Homecoming game, as well as for supporting our athletes in all sports.

Japanese teacher "sensei" Mildenhall's students enjoyed a visit from guest speaker Carlyle Potter, a local consultant who helps businesses set up in Japan. Coming up later, Japanese class students will be learning to make sushi.

Students in Mrs. Richardson's AP Psychology learned about careers in licensed clinical social work from guest speaker Jillynne Hafen, a social worker at Dixie Regional Hospital. The previous week, students learned about careers in wilderness group therapy from psychiatric nurse Emily Douglas.

Our debate team is enthusiastically gearing up for tournament season, with the first tournament at Dixie High on Oct. 8-9, followed by a Las Vegas, Nev., tournament Oct. 22-23. Debate coach Michael Eaton is in great need of adult volunteers to judge at upcoming tournaments. Please contact Mr. Eaton for more information.

On Saturday, Molly Person will direct our choirs in the Heritage Choral Festival, a combined performance of several choir and choral groups. The festival features guest director Dr. Brady R. Allred, who conducts the award-winning University of Utah Singers, the A Cappella Choir, and serves as the Artistic Director and Conductor of the critically acclaimed Salt Lake Choral Artists, comprised of five choirs with 350 singers. The performance is 7:30 p.m. at the Cox auditorium. Admission is free.

Congratulations to DHHS student Zac Sullivan in winning the Peach Days fiddle contest in Hurricane on Saturday.

Students, don't forget to pick up your school photos in the front office. School photo retakes are Sept. 15.

Please note that school-related fees can be paid online at myschoolfees.com. The site is updated daily and can be accessed with the link on our website.

Juniors and seniors should get an early start on the ACT test to ensure time for retakes to improve test scores. The next test date is Oct. 22; register by Sept. 17. Visit www.actstudent.org for test dates, information, and to register online.

Pictured above are DHHS Homecoming 2010 king Ben Emmett and queen Macey Sonju taking their "victory lap" around the field at halftime. (Photo by Morgan Bailey)

Thunderings from DHHS

This has been Homecoming week at Desert Hills, with daily activities culminating in Friday's JV and varsity games, at 4 and 7 p.m. Join the Thunder family at a tailgate celebration beginning at 4 p.m. in the parking lot by the football field. There will be plenty of food and lots of Thunder gear! The Homecoming dance, a masquerade ball, is Saturday, with pictures from 6:30 to 8:30, when the dance begins.
Our other fall sports teams are in full swing. Catch the excitement! Game dates and locations are on the school calendar posted on dhthunder.org.
Excitement hasn't been just on the fields. In the classroom, Linda Brown's students have been using their computer programming skills to program "Lego Mindstorm" robots to dance, with a robotic dance competition coming up. Local illustrator/animator/designer Jared Beckstrand visited Derek Smith's Advanced Graphic Arts class, inspiring students with his success story, including animation for several Disney movies. We are honored that Beckstrand designed our Thunder logos.
Parents of juniors and seniors, make sure your students take the ACT test. The next test date is Oct. 22; register by Sept. 17. Visit www.actstudent.org for test dates, information, and to register online.
School photo retakes are Sept. 15. A reminder, too, that all school-related fees can be paid online, and accounts are updated daily. Check the link on our website.
Please send your prayers and good thoughts to Lori Whitehead, our counseling secretary, who has been very ill and is in the hospital. We miss her!

Pictured above:

Max Theobald dressed the part for “Nerd Day” as part of Homecoming week festivities.

Students in Mrs. Brown’s computer programming class make final preparations to their “dancing” robot.

Thunderings from DHHS

Club Rush week gave students a look at the array of clubs at Desert Hills, and rosters filled with enthusiastic new members ready to have fun, learn and serve others.

Service to the community is a school theme this year, and instructor Paul Webb’s Sports Medicine students are earning extra credit for performing random acts of kindness. Watch for more club and class projects to come.

We’re looking forward to Homecoming, our first home football game, on Sept. 3 against North Sanpete. JV plays at 4 p.m. and varsity at 7 p.m. Be sure to catch the excitement and support your school at our annual tailgate party, starting at 4 p.m. Food, fun and a lineup of “Thunderwear” and other Thunder gear will be available for purchase.

Our Speech and Debate program is back in session, and students will be conducting fundraisers to help defray the cost of tournament trips. Purchase a lightning bolt or Thunder hammer (“It’s Hammertime!”) for $5.

Mr. Eaton’s film class students are exploring their talents in writing their own film scripts.

Yearbooks are now on sale for $45 and an additional $10 for a personalized line of text on the cover. Pay at the school finance office.

Pictured: Principals Justin Keate (left) and Rusty Taylor (right)join the band and lead students in singing the school song at the Club Rush assembly on Aug. 18.

Thunderings from DHHS

Our sophomore-only orientation on the first day of school was a success, and DHHS students are off and running in sports, music, drama, art, academics and in a swarm of other activities. This week was club rush, with a “Welcome Back” assembly on Wednesday during which all the school’s clubs introduced themselves and urged students to get involved.
Thank you from faculty and administration to parents and students who attended Back to School Night on Thursday. We enjoyed meeting parents and welcome you as important members of our learning community.
Be sure to catch the exciting matchups in our fall sports lineup. Go to dhthunder.org for times and locations of games and meets. Homecoming will present our first home football game, on Sept. 3 against North Sanpete, with JV playing at 4 p.m. and varsity at 7 p.m. Come be a part of the Thunder family tradition! A “Masquerade Ball” Homecoming dance follows on Saturday.
Our band performed to a sold-out crowd at the Washington County Fair on Saturday, Aug. 14, and in November, Thunder Productions will present the Broadway show “Hello Dolly!”
For a student perspective on our school community, look for “Thunderstruck,” the DHHS newspaper, on our website beginning Aug. 31.



Pictured:

Desert Hills Exec Council members met to ratify a constitution for the school Aug. 17. Council members are (back row, L to R) Alexis Clark, Mikenzie Thompson, Charity Suttner, Maggie Glendenning, (front row, L to R) Alex Graff, Taylor Fox and Samantha Richeson.

Thunderings from DHHS

It’s good to be back with our students and starting the third year at Desert Hills. The 2011 seniors are the first class to complete all of their high school years at DHHS – another milestone in Thunder history. We started this week with a sophomore-only orientation, easing some of the usual new-school jitters and confusion before heading to classes. Next week is Club Rush, with a back-to-school assembly on Wednesday. Our fall sports teams – boys golf, girls tennis, soccer and volleyball, cross country and football – are battling their first contests. For game times, see the school calendar on our website, dhthunder.org. Friday, Aug. 13, is “Meet the Team” night for Thunder football, 7 - 8 p.m. in the auditorium. The DHHS band will perform at the Washington County Fair, Saturday, Aug. 14, 9 - 11 a.m. Coming up in November, Thunder Productions will present the Broadway show “Hello Dolly!” a delightful musical about a matchmaker’s race for love in New York City at the turn of the 20th century. Auditions will be held Aug. 17 – 20 after school. Get involved in your PTSA and attend the meeting at DHHS on Tuesday, Aug. 17, 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Pictured: Exec Council members Maggie Glendending (left) and Charity Suttner (right) give a "thumbs-up" to the start of their senior year at DHHS.

Pictured: Sophomores attended an orientation before heading to classes on the first day of school.

Thunderings from DHHS

We are eager to start our third year at DHHS and look forward to welcoming our new and returning students. We are beginning the school year with three new principals at the helm: Rusty Taylor, principal; Justin Keate, vice principal; and Kim Monkres, vice principal/AD. Also joining us are six new teachers: Matt Barber, English; Linda Brown, IT/computers; Marcee Christensen, FACS; Elisha Jones, ASL; Robbie Potter, business; and Lauren Starrs, biology. This year will be about blending new beginnings with Thunder traditions, and we will start the first day, Wednesday, Aug. 11, with something new, a sophomore-only orientation, 8:15-noon, followed by all eight periods, shortened. Regular classes begin Thursday with A day. This year’s student exec council has plenty of new ideas for the year, including a DHHS homecoming parade on Sept. 3, with our traditional homecoming tailgate party following. Please check our new school website, dhthunder.org, for all things DHHS, including a calendar of sports and other events and links to faculty Web pages. Parents, please note that many teachers are “going digital” and will have downloadable assignments, information and calendars linked to their Web pages. A reminder to students and parents: Despite the heat outside, students need to come to school in dress code-appropriate clothing.

Photo 1: New principals at DHHS, Justin Keate (left) and Rusty Taylor (right) make final preparations for the start of school on Aug. 11. Taylor takes over as principal from Ray Brooks, who retired at the end of the 2009-10 term.

Photo 2: Senior Cody Thompson works out his class schedule with counseling secretary Lori Whitehead on Aug. 3.

Photo 3: DHHS custodians spent the summer getting our campus ready for the new school year and are seen here making final preparations in the commons area.

Thunderings from DHHS

Congratulations to our tennis and golf teams on their State championships and to baseball on their third-place finish at State. Girls softball concluded an exciting season by making it to State competition. Track made a good showing at State, with Porter Harris (long jump) and Tyler Ott (high jump) bringing home championships. CRT make-up testing is Wednesday through Friday. Criterion-Referenced assessment (CRT) scores can be accessed on Power School. Check with the counseling office if you need more information. Please go to www.myschoolfees.com and pay outstanding fees online. Academic Awards Night is Tuesday, May 25, in the DHHS auditorium, and graduation will be Wednesday, May 26, at 7 p.m. at DSC’s Burns Arena. The last day of school for students is May 26. Two sessions of driver education will be offered this summer; register with Mrs. Whitehead in the counseling office. Help support Thunder Football at the Sand Hollow Golf Course, May 22, 2 p.m. There will be prizes, a drawing for a trip to Oahu, and a hole-in-one contest for a trip to the 2011 Masters. $300 per foursome/$75 per person – get your teams together! For more information, contact Scott Gibson, 619-8080 or LanNette Brinker, 632-9670.

Pictured: Merrick Reynolds takes the ball downfield during a soccer match.

Photo by Alyssa Owens

Thunderings from DHHS

End of year and Advanced Placement testing continues this week. Your student’s Criterion-Referenced assessment (CRT) scores can be accessed on Power School. Check with the counseling office if you need more information. With just two weeks of classes remaining, please be checking Power School for your student’s progress in his or her classes and contact teachers with concerns. May 12, the Concert Band performs a concert at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. If interested in purchasing a piano, attend a piano sale hosted at DHHS on May 13-15. Contact the office for more information. Friday, May 14, is the last day to clear all fines and fees before graduation. Please go to www.myschoolfees.com and pay outstanding fees. The last day to attend Restitution is Friday, May. 14. Two sessions of driver education will be offered this summer; register with Mrs. Whitehead in the counseling office. Help support Thunder Football at the Sand Hollow Golf Course, May 22, 2 p.m. There will be prizes, a drawing for a trip to Oahu, and a hole-in-one contest for a trip to the 2011 Masters. $300 per foursome/$75 per person – get your teams together! For more information, contact Scott Gibson, 619-8080 or LanNette Brinker, 632-9670.

Pictured: Christian "Paco" Clayton helps bring the soccer team another win.

Photo by Alyssa Owens

Thunderings from DHHS

DHHS is humming this week, with State Core Curriculum-based testing in science and math, Advanced Placement testing, arts performances, tryouts, and the start of spring sports finals. Congratulations to Students of the Month for May: sophomore Kenneth Stocks, junior Kelsee Broadhead and senior Gentry Rynearson. This week features performances by our Jazz Band, Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., and Orchestra, Thursday at 6 p.m. Looking for a Mother’s Day gift? Get her car washed on Saturday, May 8, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at DHHS and help support our cheerleaders. Show your school spirit and purchase a DHHS vinyl window decal, available in several styles at the finance office. Two sessions of driver education will be offered during the summer; register with Mrs. Whitehead in the counseling office. Don’t be late –go to www.myschoolfees.com and pay outstanding fees. Friday, May 14, is the last day to clear all fines and fees before graduation. The last day to attend Restitution is Friday, May. 14. Mark the date and come help support Thunder Football at the Sand Hollow Golf Course, May 22, 2 p.m. There will be prizes, a drawing for a trip to Oahu, and a hole-in-one contest for a trip to the 2011 Masters. $300 per foursome/$75 per person – get your teams together! For more information, contact Scott Gibson, 619-8080 or LanNette Brinker, 632-9670.

Thunderings from DHHS

Elections for next year's student Executive Council and class officers were held last week, and this week is Thunder Week, with activities celebrating our school spirit each day. The week culminates in Spirit Day on Friday, with a morning flag run, senior show-off assembly, barbecue, student-faculty basketball game and the Cheapskate Dance at night. In the classroom, core curriculum-referenced assessments by grade level continue this week and into May. UBSCT test results are posted on Power School – call the counseling office if you need help accessing the site. Congratulations to April's Students of the Month: senior Dayci Patterson, junior Justin Gooch and sophomore Cassidy Jones. Mark your calendars to attend our Night of the Arts Celebration on Monday, May 3, at 7 p.m. All the arts, from dance to band and choir and drama will be performing, and a gallery of artwork created by DHHS students will be displayed. Come and enjoy the remarkable talents of our students! With the school year drawing to a close, please beat the crowds and go online to pay outstanding fees, at www.myschoolfees.com. Feel like pizza? Don't forget that Hungry Howie's will donate 25% of its proceeds on Mondays to our school.

Pictured: Current student Executive Council president Chase Jensen passes Thor's helmet to 2010-11 president Taylor Fox.

Thunderings from DHHS

Congratulations to our Desert Hills students for all their accomplishments! Spring sports teams continue to “thunder” on the fields and courts. The boys’ tennis team won the Logan Invitational over the weekend, with victories in singles and doubles. Girls’ golf, baseball, soccer, track, and girls’ softball have all added to “Thor’s” mighty reputation. Our drama students competed at state drama competition over the weekend, earning straight superior ratings from Shawn Hall, Heather Hansen, Andrew Justvig, Janay Maxwell, Ashlin Mutton, Hailey Sommerfeld and Beki Sutton. See more of our stars when the DHHS La Ragelles dancers present “I Have a Dream,” a dance concert inspired by history, Friday and Saturday, April 22-23, 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students. The Q4 midterm is Wednesday, and progress reports will be sent home with students. End of level assessments continue this week and into May. Class officer elections are Thursday, and the Senior Ball is Friday. Parents, UBSCT test results are posted on Power School – call the counseling office if you need help accessing the site. Please also go online to www.myschoolfees.com and pay outstanding student fees before the end-of-year crunch.

Pictured are a few members of the newly elected 2010-11 student Executive Council: (L-R) Sam Richson, Maggie Glendenning, Charity Suttner and Makenzie Thompson.

Thunderings from DHHS

Congratulations to Students of the Month for April: Cassidy Jones (sophomore), Justin Gooch (junior) and Dayci Patterson (senior). Congratulations also to our three winners and runners-up at Region Sterling Scholar competition on April 8: Our region winners were Dayci Patterson in Visual Arts, Kyle Carter in Computer Science and Jessalyn Wood in Foreign Language. These students have the honor of being Desert Hills’ first Sterling Scholar Region winners. Runners-up were: Skyler Almquist in Mathematics, Claudia Oliva in Dance and Brady Johnson in Business and Marketing. Thank you to all our school Sterling Scholars and to Karen Lowe, Sterling Scholar advisor. We begin another tradition this year with elections for student Executive Council. Candidates have divided into two parties, the Black and Gold parties, and will campaign together for their party’s nominees. An election assembly will take place on Friday. Drama will be competing in state competition Friday and Saturday, and our choir will be performing tonight at the Region Choir Festival at Pine View High. DHHS music students performed and attended workshops at Disneyland April 7-11. A reminder that grade night final payment is due tomorrow, April 15. End of level state testing begins this week and continues into May.

Pictured: Dayci Patterson was the Sterling Scholar region winner in Visual Arts. She designed the unique and beautiful artwork featured on the cover of the DHHS school winners’ Sterling Scholar portfolios.

Thunderings from DHHS

Congratulations to Students of the Month for March: Caitlyn Sullivan (sophomore), Alexis Clark (junior) and Alexis Williams (senior). Congratulations also to our cheerleaders for placing third in the Game Time Division at national competition last weekend. We thank them for their tremendous support of Desert Hills throughout the school year. Students in HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) took a field trip to the Body Museum this week in conjunction with their study of medical anatomy. A few spots are open for the senior grad night trip – contact the finance office for paperwork and payment. The grad night final payment is due April 15. Cheer tryouts for next year are April 12-15. Contact the office for applications for cheer and color guard. Students interested in the Fantasy Art Festival, April 14, should contact art teacher Ms. Kerksiek. The Lady Lions are offering one $1,000 DSC scholarship from DHHS. The deadline is April 2. If interested, contact the Counseling Center. There will be a meeting for students interested in concurrent enrollment next fall, Tuesday, April 6, 6-7 p.m. in the counseling center. End of level testing begins April 12. Happy Easter to all – school will be in recess Friday and Monday.

Pictured: Seniors in the Unified Studies program take a turn at sifting soil at an archaeological dig in Washington Fields on March 25.

Thunderings from DHHS

Congratulations to DHHS drama, who competed at SUU last week. Ten students will go on to compete at state, April 16-17. Wednesday, choir members perform at region vocals at Snow Canyon, and Thursday, band members travel north to the state jazz competition. Our region champ cheerleaders will compete at state finals in Anaheim this weekend. Thank you to all who rolled up their sleeves and gave blood during Monday’s blood drive at DHHS. The Lady Lions are offering one $1,000 DSC scholarship from DHHS. The deadline is April 2. For more information, contact the Counseling Center. Come help girls softball in finishing the softball field fencing by bringing your car for a wash at DHHS, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., $5. Donations welcome. There will be a meeting for students interested in taking concurrent enrollment next fall, Tuesday, April 6, 6-7 p.m. in the counseling center. Call for more information. Juniors should take the June 12 ACT if they haven’t already taken the college entrance exam. Go to www.actstudent.org to register. Support your DHHS spring sports teams: softball, golf, track, soccer, tennis and baseball. Check our school Web site for game times and locations. Support DHHS by enjoying pizza from Hungry Howie’s on Mondays; 25% of proceeds are donated to the school.

Pictured: Mrs. Johnson's Culinary Arts students dished it out to the competition with their award-winning presentation during February's state contest.

Thunderings from DHHS

This week we welcomed back our students for the final term. We’re excited to be back in session and learning! Grades for the third quarter will be sent home tomorrow. This week is Green Week at DHHS: carpool Thursday and join us at lunch Friday to plant more than 100 flowers. Drama students perform one-act plays and dramatic and comedic monologues at region drama competition at SUU, Thursday and Friday. Experience March Mayhem in the Desert, Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at DHHS. The event features basketball competitions between WCSD coaches and Impact of So. Utah and high school seniors vs. Team Raw, live music, food, prizes. Entrance donations: $5 for adults, $3 for students and $10 for families requested. Call Mr. Sharp of HOSA to make an appointment for Monday’s Blood Drive at DHHS. There will be a meeting for students interested in taking concurrent enrollment next year, Tuesday, April 6, 6-7 p.m. in the counseling center. Call for more information. Juniors should take the June 12 ACT if they haven’t already taken the college entrance exam. Go to www.actstudent.org to register. Support your DHHS spring sports teams: girls softball, track and golf and boys soccer, tennis and baseball.

Pictured: Seniors in Unified Studies enjoyed a field trip to Lytle Ranch in February. The program will give students a greater appreciation for and knowledge of the unique environment of Southern Utah.

Thunderings from DHHS

Spring is in the air, and so is anticipation for spring break. The third quarter ends Friday, with school resuming Tuesday, March 16 (an A day). Grades will be sent home March 17. Go online to dhthunder.org to find links to teacher Web sites for information and assignments. Also on the school Web site is a calendar of events, the spring sports schedule, a link to pay school fees and scholarship information. The deadline to register for the April 10 ACT is March 5. Juniors are encouraged to take the April 10 or June 12 ACT. Go to www.actstudent.org to register. Spring sports matchups begin this week for boys’ soccer, tennis and baseball. Come support the teams! The American Association of University Women is accepting scholarship applications from high school girls, due March 15, and the National Society of The Sons of Utah Pioneers is sponsoring a $500 scholarship to a senior, due March 16. Applications for these scholarships and more are available in the counseling center. Tonight, jazz band goes to Cedar High for the Region Jazz Band Festival. Drama students are preparing for region drama competition, March 18-19. The concert choir performs tonight at 7 p.m. in the DHHS auditorium.

Pictured: Congressman Jim Matheson visited Desert Hills, Feb. 18, and spoke to social studies students. Afterwards, he presented a flag flown over the Capitol to Alex Graf, whose birthday was the next day.

Thunderings from DHHS

Next week is the final week of the third quarter, with spring break following. Please check PowerSchool for your student’s progress in his or her classes. Contact teachers if you have questions. Boys State interviews are this week. Selections for Boys and Girls State will be made in mid-March. Boys basketball playoffs begin this week – good luck! The deadline to register for the April 10 ACT is March 5. Juniors are encouraged to take the April 10 or June 12 ACT. Go to www.actstudent.org to register. Juniors, seniors and parents: Come to DHHS tonight at 6:30 to learn about DSC scholarships and financial aid. Enjoy pizza and prizes! “Our Town,” performed by the DHHS drama department, is this Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students. We are collecting pop can tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Salt Lake City, which provides a temporary home for families of children undergoing medical treatment. Please send your tabs to school or bring them to the main office. Remember, if you purchase pizza at Hungry Howie’s on Mondays, mention DHHS, and 25% of the proceeds will be donated to support our school.

Pictured: DHHS fans make the sign of the thunderbolt during a recent boys basketball game. The team goes into playoffs Thursday.

Thunderings from DHHS

Back from the three-day Presidents’ Day breather, we’re charging into the final three weeks of the third quarter, which ends on March 5. Students should be working full steam on projects and assignments. Please monitor PowerSchool to be aware of your student’s progress in his or her classes. Girls State interviews are this week, and preparations are underway for FBLA state conference, April 8-9. Girls’ and boys’ basketball state playoffs begin on Friday. Check our Web site for game times and locations and come see some exciting basketball action. We are collecting pop can tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Salt Lake City, which provides a home away from home for families of children undergoing medical treatment. Please send your tabs to school or drop by the main office and deposit your tabs in the collection jar. Seniors and parents: Mark your calendars for next Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., when DSC representatives will be at DHHS for Scholarship Night, with information on applying for financial aid and scholarships. Free pizza and T-shirts, too! Remember, if you purchase pizza at Hungry Howies on Mondays, mention DHHS, and the store will donate 25% of the proceeds to support our school.

Pictured: Mrs. Lowe’s sophomores use the Media Center writing lab to plan, research and write a research paper in English, one of four core essays students write during the school year.

Thunderings from DHHS

We’re thrilled at Desert Hills about our winter sports athletes’ excellence! Congratulations to our swimmers, wrestlers, and basketball teams! We wish boys’ basketball success at tonight’s game at Canyon View and on Friday at Hurricane High. Parents and friends, give your special valentine student a singing valentine and rose lollipop! For $3, our chamber choir members will deliver a valentine on Friday at DHHS and on Saturday to your special valentines in the community. Call the school for more information. We are collecting donations of both money and clothing for Haiti during lunch on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Please send your donations to DHHS. We’re looking for junior girls to represent our school at Girls State. This is a great opportunity for college credit and a chance to earn college scholarships. Sign up in the counseling office. If you purchase pizza at Hungry Howies, mention DHHS, and the store will donate 25% of the proceeds to support our school. Show your Thunder spirit and contact the finance office for your Thunder hoodies ($28), key chains ($9) to support cheer and Thunder sleeves in support of soccer ($6).

Pictured: The Thunder take on Canyon View at their home turf on Wednesday, Feb. 10. Next up is more exciting basketball play at Hurricane High on Friday, Feb. 12. Get your Thunderwear at DHHS and come show your spirit! Photo by Alyssa Owens.

Thunderings from DHHS

Today is the third quarter mid-term, and progress reports will be going home with students. Parents, please continue to access Power School (a link is provided on our web page) for upcoming assignments and to check your student’s progress. UBSCT testing for sophomores continues today and tomorrow. Please make sure your student is rested, prepared and in attendance. Registration for next year’ seniors takes place today and tomorrow. Check with the counseling office for further information. We are collecting donations of both money and clothing for Haiti during lunch on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Please send your donations to DHHS. Those interested in competing in Skills USA need to register this week. We’re also looking for junior girls to represent our school at Girls State. This is a great opportunity for college credit and a chance to earn college scholarships. Sign up in the counseling office. If you purchase pizza at Hungry Howies, mention DHHS, and the store will donate 25% of the proceeds to support our school. Show your Thunder spirit and contact the finance office for your Thunder hoodies ($28), key chains ($9) to support cheer and Thunder arm socks in support of soccer ($6).

Pictured: Band students were treated to a visit from professional musician Ron Verdi, who brought with him a display of rare and unique saxophones, including this contrabass saxophone. Only nine of these large instruments were ever produced. The low sound effects in the movie “Horton Hears a Who” were played by Verdi on his contrabass sax.

Thunderings from DHHS

DHHS is thrilled with the region championships won by our boys’ and girls’ swim teams, nabbing top honors from Cedar’s reign. We’re enjoying equally thrilling play from our basketball teams this season, with an exciting win over Pine View last week. The boys play Cedar on Friday. Our wrestling team was top finisher in region, taking fifth place at the PV invitational. Well done, athletes! In other action, students will be dancing the night away – well, until 11:30 p.m. – at Saturday’s Junior Prom at the Bell Tower. Also Saturday, the District Honor Choir, featuring area high schools’ top voices, will perform at DSC’s Cox Auditorium at 7 p.m. Friday is the last day to purchase a 2009-10 yearbook ($45). Feb. 2-4 is UBSCT testing for sophomores. Please make sure your student is rested, prepared and in attendance on testing days. Next Wednesday is Q3 midterm, and progress reports will be given to students to take home next week. If you purchase pizza at Hungry Howies, mention DHHS, and the store will donate 25% of the proceeds to support our school. Show your Thunder spirit and contact the finance office for your Thunder hoodies ($28) and key chains ($9).

Photo by Alyssa Owens

Thunderings

Congratulations to our winter team athletes – boys’ and girls’ basketball, swimming and wrestling – DHHS continues to rack up the wins in region play. Kudos also go to our cheerleaders, who took first place in 3A state competition on Friday. Also on Friday, selected choir students traveled to Salt Lake City to audition for the State Honor Choir. Congratulations to sophomore clarinetist Josh Kaneversky and junior violinist Katrien Jack, who qualified for All-State Band and Orchestra. Coming up Feb. 2-4 is UBSCT testing for sophomores. Prep classes are available at lunchtime (reading, Tuesday; math, Wednesday; writing, Thursday). Encourage your sophomore to take advantage of this lunchtime help. Contact the office for information. Also, please make sure your student is rested, prepared and in attendance on testing days. We encourage parents to keep up to date on their student’s progress and check Power School regularly throughout the quarter. Three parent positions are open for election to the Community Council, with meetings beginning in April. Contact the school office for more information.

Pictured: Mrs. Richardson’s psychology students decorated masks to represent their personality.

Thunderings from DHHS

The third quarter is off and running! On Jan. 2, DHHS Culinary Arts students catered their first wedding, preparing, setting-up and serving 400 meatballs, tuxedo pasta salad, fresh donuts, snowflake sugar cookies, green salad, and artichoke dip for more than 200 wedding guests. On Wednesday, Jan. 13, ninth graders from DHMS visited our campus for sophomore orientation and registration (see accompanying photo). The ninth graders learned about curricular and extra-curricular opportunities at DHHS and took a tour of the school. On Friday, selected choir students will travel to Salt Lake City to audition for the State Honor Choir. Congratulations to sophomore clarinetist Josh Kaneversky and junior violinist Katrien Jack, who qualified for All-State Band and Orchestra. Our winter sports teams continue to show their “Thunder,” taking wins in swimming, wrestling and basketball. Check the DHHS online calendar for game times and support the teams. We encourage parents to keep up to date on their student’s progress and check Power School regularly throughout the quarter. Feb. 2-4 is UBSCT testing for sophomores: Please make sure your student is rested, prepared and in attendance those days. Three parent positions are open for election to the Community Council, with meetings beginning in April. Contact the school office for more information.

Thunderings from DHHS

All of us at Desert Hills welcome back our students and look forward with excitement to an excellent third quarter! Student learning and achievement are of utmost importance to us at DHHS. We encourage parents to keep up to date on their student’s progress by checking Power School and teacher Web sites, linked to our new school Web site. Second quarter grades will be ready at the end of this week. Other activities and programs continue to enrich the learning environment during this quarter. Winter sports continue, with girls’ and boys’ basketball, swimming and wrestling – check our DHHS online calendar for game times and locations. Coming up Jan. 15-16 are State Honor Choir and All State Band and Orchestra, on Jan. 21-23. On Wednesday, Jan. 13, eighth graders from DHMS will visit DHHS for freshman orientation and registration. Coming up Feb. 2-4 is UBSCT testing of tenth graders: Please make sure your student is rested, prepared and in attendance during that time. Three parent positions are open for election to the Community Council, which deals with school improvement and SITLA, with meetings beginning in April. Contact the school office for more information. Let’s have a great third quarter!