www.Sibley.isd197.

org
Attendance: 651.403.7107

FINISH STRONG
Greetings Students, Parents and Guardians,
The successful completion of our first semester is here. Our
students have shown themselves to emulate our culture of Warrior P.R.I.D.E. throughout the
first term of the 2014-2015 school year. We have observed our students in learning
environments, at performances and in competition meeting, and exceeding, expectations for
excellence.
We will transition directly into our second semester on Monday, January 26, following a day off
for students on Friday, January 23. The initial weeks of a new term are critical for students to
establish a high level of success for the term as they get to know new areas of study or dig
more deeply into ongoing studies that are continuing from the first term. Remain in conversation
with them, and sharing your aspirations for their academic success and for life beyond high
school.
During the week of January 26, our registration process for 2015-2016 begins. Please be in
conversation with your student about courses, level of rigor, prioritizing challenges, interests and
post-secondary college and career goals. Our new Henry Sibley Course Catalog for 2015-2016
is posted on our homepage. We encourage family discussions around academic plans that
appropriately challenge our learners and afford them opportunities for success. We want them
to follow and find their sparks, interests and passions.
Recent Sibley Points of Pride:
Natalie Bennett- Earned KNOW THE TRUTH AWARD- in recognition of her impact as
a positive role model, making positive life choices and substance abuse prevention.
Many of our seniors are earning admission into colleges and universities. The letters are
generating celebrations and excitement. Samples are posted in our front entry. Hard
work and brilliant strategies are being rewarded!
Our Henry Sibley Dance Team recently wrapped up its 8th-consecutive conference
championship! Congratulations! We are proud of you!
Look for more details on these and other Sibley success stories on our website.
Lets finish this term well!
Sincerely,

Ron Monson
Principal ~ Henry Sibley High School

January 2015

Feepay - New Options at Sibley High School

Student Parking Passes are now available to purchase online with a credit card under our
FeePay Program. Student parking is $100.00 per semester. You may now use this option to
purchase a second semester pass. This will be the process for purchasing a 2015-2016 school
year parking pass, as of July 1, 2015.
To find the page go to the ISD 197 website and on the right side under Quick Links then click
FeePay. http://www.isd197.org/services/feepay
FYI: FeePay can be used for Sports, Meals, and Yearbook fees.

Minnesota Weather and School

When the weather is extremely cold or snowy, parents are the ultimate decision makers as to
whether or not you feel you should send your children to school. Please use your own
judgment.
Please be sure your children are dressed for the weather. Cars and buses can and do stall in
Minnesota. It is best when children leave the house wearing proper winter clothing. Hats and
mittens are a must, even for older students, who should at least have them in their pockets or
backpack in case of an emergency.
Have a contingency plan in place before an emergency. Reach out to neighbors and
classmates families. If possible, set up a plan to take turns caring for children if a school
closure or delay occurs.
Keep in touch. We strive to send timely information in multiple formats to keep you informed.
We are partners in this endeavor, and we want to do all we can to help you pivot when plans on
the home front need to be changed. Always make sure your contact information is up-to-date
with our school office.

LIVEGREEN
LIVEGREEN energy conservation video contest that is currently open until January 30th. All
students at Henry Sibley High School are eligible to compete for the $100 top prize. Attached
below, is more information about the contest and those who are interested can find even more
information on the district webpage under the Sustainability
tab: http://www.isd197.org/district/sustainability

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

th

Incoming 9 - grade Student Registration Information

Henry Sibley High School will offer a Registration Information Night for parents of incoming
current 8th grade students on Monday, January 26, from 6-8 p.m.
Parents will have the opportunity to meet teachers from each academic department and receive
important departmental overviews and course information. Teachers will be available to answer
questions and Guidance Counselors will meet with parents to discuss important aspects of the
high school registration process. Student-led school tours will be available, as well as
information on extra-curricular activities and athletics. This event is designed for parents and
guardians. Students will receive registration information at their district middle school.
Agenda for the evening:
6:00-6:45 p.m. Course and Departmental Overviews (Auditorium)
6:45-7:15 p.m. Meet with Teachers and Building Tours (Cafeteria)
7:20-8:00 p.m. Meet with Guidance Counselors
Rooms: B111 (A-Do), A241 (Dp-J), WH (K-Per) and A341 (Pes-Z)
*Please bring your childs registration information to the meeting
Habr intrpretes disponibles.
School Tours for Parents:
Parents, if you are interested in seeing the school in action, please call our Guidance Office at
651-403-7208 to schedule a time for a tour during a school day. We would love to share the
excitement with you. Tours for 8th grade students from Friendly Hills and Heritage will be
conducted in the spring.
Shadow a Student Experiences for Non-public Students:
Students who attend a private school and are interested in visiting Henry Sibley to experience a
"day-in-the-life" of a student and attend classes, may contact our Guidance Office at 651-4037208 to arrange a visit. Half- or full-day opportunities are available.

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

Final Exams for Semester 1

Wednesday, January 21
Period 1
8:30 - 10:05 a.m.
Period 3
10:15 - 11:50 a.m.
Period 5
11:59 a.m. - 1:19 p.m. (Lunches are the same as usual)
Period 7
1:24 - 3:04 p.m.
Thursday, January 22
Period 2
8:30 - 10:05 a.m.
Period 4
10:15 - 11:50 a.m.
Period 5
11:59 a.m. - 1:19 p.m. (Lunches are the same as usual)
Period 6
1:24 - 3:04 p.m.

Students who have study halls first or second period may be excused from the study hall if they
bring a note, signed by a parent, to the teacher. Excused students should not arrive at school
before 10:10 a.m.
Students who have study halls sixth or seventh period may leave early if they have parental
permission and give their study hall teacher a signed note. Excused students must leave
campus by 1:20 p.m.
Transportation for students arriving late or leaving early is the students responsibility.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND SIBLEY TIMES

We will continue our monthly Sibley Times with critical information for parents, guardians and
other members of the community.
Our student announcements will remain available on the school website under the tab 'News
and Events'. For many, they have found that a bookmark in the header or in the other
bookmarks folder has been a quick means to find and scan the student announcements.

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

Class of 2015 Seniors

Save the Date for the All Night Party!
Seniors, it is 2015 and your final year of high school! Mark your calendars for one final, special
evening filled with fun and lasting memories. The Senior All Night Party is an all-night lock-in at
Sibley on the night of graduation. Save the date for Sunday June 7, 2015, beginning around
9:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. The event is fully sponsored by parent volunteers and includes great
fun, food, games, activities, prizes, and surprises!

Parents of Senior Class of 2015 Senior All Night Party Needs You!
Graduation is only 5 months away, so now is the time to get involved in helping plan our all night
lock-in party! The event, held on the night of graduation, gives our seniors a party to celebrate
this milestone together as a class, in a fun and safe atmosphere. Please help us by joining a
committee, creating decorations, or donating to the event. (Details on volunteering for at the
event itself will be coming over the next few months.)
Decoration Drop In: Join other parents in creating our party dcor! No artistic talent is
needed, just your enthusiasm and energy. Come for an hour, or stay the entire time. We cannot
do it without your involvement.
Mendota Elementary School
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., starting 1/10/15
Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., starting 1/14/15
Location: Mendota Elementary School
Join a planning committee: Email us at sibleyseniorparty2015@gmail.com and get involved! It
is a great way to connect with other parents of the class of 2015. Many committees need help
including decorations, gifts/raffle/donations, entertainment, food, casino, volunteers, setup,
cleanup and more!
Donate: This huge event is supported by donations, both cash and in-kind. Please consider
sending in a donation to support the many aspects of this event.
Please make check to "Sibley Senior Party" and give to the main office at Sibley.
Also, if you are connected to any people or businesses that would like to donate to our event,
please contact us at sibleyseniorparty2015@gmail.com.

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

Parent Power
How to Get Your Child Ready for College
The following tips are taken from the book Get Into Any College by Gen & Kelly Tanabe
1. Go on college visits with your child Being on campus can get your child excited about
the idea of going to college. Walking around, absorbing the atmosphere, eating in the dining
hall, and talking to other students is a much better way of learning about a college than simply
looking online. Once you are on campus with your child you can start making checklists of what
you like and dislike. You can schedule a campus visit by contacting the colleges admissions
department.
2. Encourage your child to take challenging classes in high school Good grades matter
but so does exposure to rigorous classes. Not only will participating in challenging classes look
good on your childs transcript, it will help prepare him/her for the academic demands they will
face once they are in college. If your child is interested in college they should be taking classes
that require them to struggle a little to meet expectations. Course registration for the 2015-2016
school year will begin later this month at Sibley. You and your child can access our course
catalog on our school webpage and discuss what courses will best prepare him/her for college.
3. Focus on the ACT Test This is a test that colleges look at very closely when selecting
students. All juniors at Sibley will be required to take the ACT. This will take place during the
school day on April 28. There are several books available that can help your child prepare for
the exam and numerous test prep classes that can be taken. While there is a cost to take the
test prep classes, a higher score can also mean more opportunities and more scholarships. For
more information on how to prepare for the ACT you can go to www.act.org or contact your
childs school counselor.
4. Help your child remember past activities and achievements While filling out college
applications your child will have to include personal data such as academic honors,
extracurricular activities, work experience, community involvement, and leadership
opportunities. Parents frequently remember significant events that their children overlook.
Focus on academic achievements and instances where your child took on responsibility
because they indicate a readiness for college expectations.
5. Create a family plan to pay for college Every family situation is different but all families
should have a plan. Chances are, your child wont consider the cost of attending college as
much as other factors. Therefore, as the parent, it is your responsibility to look at how to pay for
it. If you have concerns you can contact your childs guidance counselor. Also, Henry Sibley
will be hosting a college financial aid meeting for parents on January 22nd at 6:00 PM. Please
attend if you are interested in learning more about options and strategies for paying for college.

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

Teens and Alcohol Use

Underage drinking is a serious public health problem in the United States. Alcohol is the most
widely used substance of abuse among Americas youth, and drinking by young people poses
enormous health and safety risks.
The consequences of underage drinking can affect everyoneregardless of age or drinking
status. We all feel the effects of the aggressive behavior, property damage, injuries, violence,
and deaths that can result from underage drinking. This is not simply a problem for some
familiesit is a nationwide concern
Why Teens Drink
Teens are particularly vulnerable to alcohol use. The physical changes of puberty might make
your teen feel self-conscious and more likely to take risks such as experiment with alcohol
to fit in or please others. Coping with stress and challenging transitions, such as going from
middle school to high school, moving, or dealing with the effects of divorce, might also influence
a teen to drink. Also, your teen might have trouble understanding that his or her actions can
have harmful consequences.
Other risk factors include:
Family problems, such as conflict or parental alcohol abuse
A history of childhood abuse or other major trauma
Behavior, school or mental health problems
Close friendships with teens who drink or use other drug
The Role Parents Play
Parents and teachers can play a big role in shaping young peoples attitudes toward drinking.
Parents in particular can have either a positive or negative influence.
Parents can help their children avoid alcohol problems by:
Talking about the dangers of drinking
Drinking responsibly, if they choose to drink
Serving as positive role models in general
Not making alcohol available
Getting to know their childrens friends
Having regular conversations about life in general
Connecting with other parents about sending clear messages about the importance of not
drinking alcohol
Supervising all parties to make sure there is no alcohol
Encouraging kids to participate in healthy and fun activities that do not involve alcohol
Research shows that children whose parents are actively involved in their lives are less likely to
drink alcohol.
On the other hand, research shows that a child with a parent who binge drinks is much more
likely to binge drink than a child whose parents do not binge drink.
Seeking Help for Underage Drinking
If you suspect that your teen has been drinking you've noticed mood changes or behavior
problems, for example, or your teen has red or glazed eyes or unusual health complaints talk
1897 Delaware Avenue
Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

to him or her. Enforce the consequences you've established so that your teen understands that
using alcohol will always result in a loss of privileges.
If you think your teen might have a drinking problem, contact your teen's doctor or a counselor
or other health care provider who specializes in alcohol problems. Teens who have alcohol
problems aren't likely to realize it or seek help on their own.
Remember, it's never too soon to start talking to your teen about underage alcohol use. By
broaching the topic, you'll help give your teen the guidance and support necessary to make
good choices.
In April, Henry Sibley SADD members along with local police and fire departments will be
hosting a mock car crash scenario prior to prom. This enactment has been shown to aid
students in coming to grips with the horrors that can be associated with drinking and driving.
If you would like further information or assistance in gaining knowledge on todays alcohol,
tobacco and drug use please feel free to contact me.
Ann L. Lindberg, B.A. LADC
ann.lindberg@isd197.org
District #197 Chemical Health Coordinator

1897 Delaware Avenue

Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

Counselors Corner
The Henry Sibley School Counselors work with students on post-high school planning, advise
students regarding academic concerns and academic planning, and support students
social/emotional growth. Our office provides information about careers, colleges, and technical
and vocational schools. We look forward to working with all students on educational and career
planning, decision-making, personal and social development, individual and/or small group
counseling, parent and teacher consultation, referral assistance to other programs, and test
interpretation. Call our Guidance Secretary (651-403-7208), stop by the Guidance Office, or
email your counselor to make an appointment. By student last names:
Counselor Contact Information:
A-Do
Beth Gjerde
elizabeth.gjerde@isd197.org
651-403-7203
Dp-J

Ann Henry

ann.henry@isd197.org

651-403-7192

K-Per

Margaret Nigro

margaret.nigro@isd197.org

651-403-7202

Pes-Z

James Winkoski

james.winkoski@isd197.org

651-403-7204

2014 PLAN Test ResultsThe PLAN test is a practice test for the ACT, and was administered
to all sophomore students on November 12th. The PLAN tests the same subject areas as the
ACT: English, Math, Reading, and Science, and provides a projected ACT score, as well as
information about college readiness and careers of interest. Counselors will meet individually
with their sophomore students this winter to distribute and discuss PLAN results.
2014 PSAT Test ResultsThe PSAT is a practice test for the SAT, and for juniors is the
qualifying exam for National Merit Scholarships. The test is optional, and was administered on
October 15th to sophomore and junior students who chose to take the test. PSAT results will be
distributed to students in individual meetings with their school counselor.
Free Practice ACT, SAT, and test prep available on MCIS!Each student can now access
three free practice tests and a test prep course through MCIS in their personal accountnote:
these tests cannot be accessed with the generic login, but only with an individual account.
Students should look under My Portfolio to What practice tests can I take? and select the
College Entrance/GED/ASVAB Tests.
College Application ProcessAll college applications can be completed online at the
colleges admissions website. If you are applying to schools that use the Common Application,
you can apply at www.commonapp.org. If your college requires letters of recommendation as
part of the application, please be sure to ask teachers early. Information about college
application procedures and ordering transcripts can be found
at www.sibley.isd197.org/services/guidance. Please see your counselor for assistance.
Sending transcriptsSibley uses the online system Parchment to send official transcripts.
Seniors applying to college will need to send an official transcript to each college. Students
using the Common App can select Common App as an option, instead of sending a transcript
individually to all their Common App schools. To find Parchment, students should go to the
Sibley website, and choose Request a Transcript under Quick Links.
1897 Delaware Avenue
Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100

January 2015

10

Counselors Corner continued...

Semester 2 schedulesSibley students received their semester 2 schedules on January 7th.
Students should check that they have the correct courses and a complete schedule. If there are
errors, they should see their school counselor as soon as possible to make corrections.
Financial Aid Meeting January 22nd, 2015At 6:00pm a financial aid expert will be at Sibley
to present about need-based financial aid, filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal
Student Aid), and answer questions. Parents of senior students are encouraged to attend.
Registration for 2015-16The registration process for the 2015-16 school year will start in
January. School counselors are going to Heritage and Friendly Hills to explain course offerings
and begin the registration process with incoming 9th graders the second week of January. We
will then have our Registration Night on January 26th at 6pm for parents of incoming 9th graders.
Current Sibley students will start the registration process in February.
2015 ACT April 28thAll juniors in the state of Minnesota will take the ACT plus Writing on
April 28th. This is now a required test for juniors, and can be used as an official test score for
college admissions. Students do not need to register or pay for this test.

Dates to Remember
January
19
21
22
23
26
30
February
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
13
16

No School Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Semester Finals
Semester Finals
Financial Aid Meeting, 6:00 p.m.
No School End of Quarter 2
Registration for Fall 2015, for incoming 9th grade students, 6:00 p.m.
Henry Sibley, Friendly Hills, Heritage - Band Bridges Concert at Henry Sibley,
7:00 p.m.

Henry Sibley, Friendly Hills, Heritage - Bridges Choir Concert at Henry Sibley,
7:30 p.m.
GOFA Begins
GOFA Open Mic, 7:00 p.m.
One Act Play, 7:30 p.m.
One Act Play, 7:30 p.m.
One Act Play, 2:30 p.m.
GOFA Dance, 8:00 p.m.
Orchestra Lullaby Concert, 3:00 5:00 p.m.
GOFA Singled Out, 7:00 9:00 p.m.
GOFA Talent Show, 7:00 p.m.
No School
No School, Presidents Day
1897 Delaware Avenue
Mendota Heights, Minn. 55118
Principal: Ron Monson

www.Sibley.isd197.org
Attendance: 651.403.7107
Office: 651.403.7100