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2026 1HERD NEWSLETTER

Posted Date: 01/18/26 (09:06 AM)


A graphic features a stylized bison head logo next to the text '1HERD NEWSLETTER'.

5th Week of April

April 27th-May 1st

Bison Families

It is finally time to celebrate! We are looking forward to a safe and memorable Prom night for our students this coming Saturday. Please find the essential details below:
  • When: Saturday, April 25
  • Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Location: Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD) Event Center
  • Tickets: $30 for individuals | $50 for couples
  • Royalty: Voting for Prom Royalty will take place live at the event, so encourage your students to arrive on time to cast their votes!
We appreciate your support in making this a wonderful evening for our students. If you have any questions regarding the event or dress code requirements, please contact the main office.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
  • Senior Graduation Speaker Tryouts 3 PM
  • FFA Banquet @ 6:30 PM Kiwanis House
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day
  • HERD Time Study Hall and Prevention Needs Assessment Survey
SATURDAY: PROM 8 pm to 11 pm @ CFD

 
A black and white illustration of a graduation cap with a tassel.

Graduation Senior Speaker Tryouts

Class of 2026, 

Graduation day is rapidly approaching.  The graduation committee is busy planning your ceremony and is now seeking seniors interested in speaking at the ceremony on May 29th.  One senior will be selected for this honor.  The committee encourages everyone who meets the qualifications to try out.  You must be a senior in good standing and exemplify the Power of the Herd.   

If you are interested in auditioning, please see Mrs. DeMartin in the SAC for the application form.  Tryouts will be on April 29th at 3pm in the Auditorium.  A copy of your entire speech must be available at that time.  Speeches are to be no longer than 3-5 minutes. 

We hope to see lots of seniors audition for this special privilege. 
 

Prevention Needs Assessment Survey

On Friday, South High will participate in the Prevention Needs Assessment Survey in partnership with the University of Wyoming. This data is used to assess student needs and improve our support systems. During HERD Time, any student who has a signed permission slip will take the survey in the commons.
 
A man holds a sign that reads "BRIAN COX Teacher of the Year 2026-2027" in a gymnasium.

Brian Cox is LCSD1 Teacher of the Year!

We are thrilled to share some incredible news with our school community. Brian Cox has been officially announced as the LCSD1 Teacher of the Year!

This is a deeply deserving title that reflects Mr. Cox's immense dedication to agricultural science. As the Ag teacher for both South High School and Johnson Junior High School, Brian provides our students with real-world, hands-on opportunities every single day. His classroom is a place where theory meets practice, preparing our students for future success in and out of the field.

Additionally, Mr. Cox has dedicated countless hours to developing Big Country FFA, creating a space where students can lead, compete, and grow.

We are so proud of the work Mr. Cox does and even prouder to call him our Teacher of the Year.
Please join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement!

Horns up!
A group of adults and students pose for a photo in a gymnasium, holding signs congratulating Brian Cox as Teacher of the Year.
 

Athletics and Activities

April 27th - May 2nd

A weekly schedule for Bison Activities from April 27th to May 2nd, featuring sports events and a prom.
 
A young woman with long dark hair stands on a basketball court, wearing a gray sweatshirt and black leggings.

Welcome Coach Cota!

South High School is proud to welcome Carolina Pantoja as our new Head Cheer Coach.

Coach Pantoja is a staple of the South community with an impressive background in cheer leadership. A South Cheer alumna, she brings valuable experience from her time as a Coach at Johnson and her recent role as our Assistant Coach at South.

We are grateful for her continued commitment to our student-athletes and look forward to a successful year under her leadership.

South Cheer 2026-2027 Important Dates: Mandatory Parent/Athlete Meeting on May 5th at South High School Auditorium, 6:00 pm.

Cheer Tryout Season is Here!

May is officially cheer tryout season! If you are ready to show your Enthusiasm and Determination, please pay close attention to these upcoming dates:
  • Informational Parent Meeting: May 5th at 6:00 PM in the South High Auditorium.
  • Tryouts: Please refer to the tryout flyer to mark your calendars for the specific dates and times.
Come prepared to show us what it means to be Honorable, Enthusiastic, Responsible, and Determined. We can't wait to see you there!

 

South High School Welcomes Head Tennis Coach Megan Barr

Please join us in welcoming Megan Barr as the newest addition to our coaching staff. Coach Barr joins South High with a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship.

Her approach aligns perfectly with our HERD philosophy, emphasizing Responsibility and Enthusiasm in competition. We look forward to a fantastic season under her leadership!

4th Week of April

April 20th-25th

Bison Families

This week, our primary focus shifts toward AP Testing. Our primary focus is on ensuring every student feels confident and prepared for their exam day. To support this goal, we are hosting AP Extended Day hours this week.

The Schedule
  • When: Monday - Thursday
  • Where: Communicated by each teacher.
  • Focus: Dedicated exam review, practice FRQs, and content deep-dives.
  • Texting Schedule: Use the attached schedule to plan ahead.

Note: Our AP teachers have coordinated specialized study plans directly with their students. Please be aware that a few instructors have scheduled alternative review sessions outside of the standard after-school window.

Resources & Information
If you would like to learn more about the upcoming exams, registration details, or scoring, please visit the official College Board AP Students Page.

Good luck to all our test-takers—you’ve got this!
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
  • Board Meeting @ 6PM - Student of the Week - Sophia Carabajal
  • AP Extended Day Tutoring
TUESDAY: B-Day
  • AP Extended Day Tutoring
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
  • AP Extended Day Tutoring
THURSDAY: B-Day
  • AP Extended Day Tutoring
FRIDAY: B-Day
  • Advisement: Make-a-wish Pep Assembly
 
A young person in a JROTC uniform smiles while holding a ceremonial sword.

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: JROTC

This past weekend, our JROTC program hosted its annual Awards Banquet, and it was truly a night to remember. With over 200 families and supporters in attendance, the room was filled with the spirit of service and community that defines South High.

We were honored to welcome several distinguished dignitaries and a special Purple Star recipient, whose presence added a profound layer of meaning to the evening. It was a privilege to witness our amazing cadets being celebrated for their discipline, leadership, and growth.

Congratulations to our Cadets of the Year! Your hard work and dedication serve as an inspiration to the entire student body. A sincere thank you to the families and instructors who support these young leaders every day.

Three young individuals in JROTC uniforms stand together, smiling.
Two young people in ROTC uniforms smile, with one resting their head on the other's shoulder.
Cadets of the Year
A woman in a maroon dress smiles next to a person in a JROTC uniform.
A group of young people in military uniforms stand before an audience, with American and other flags behind them.

Athletics and Activities

April 20th-25th

A weekly schedule for Bison Activities in April, listing sports events for Monday, April 20th through Saturday, April 25th.

3rd Week of April

April 13th-18th

Bison Families

As we get closer to the end of the school year, our teachers will review grades, ask students to turn in missing work, and plan for final assessments.
1. Parent Support
It is the student's responsibility to keep informed about their grades and performance, but a little parent support can go a long way. If you have any grade concerns, a proactive email or phone call now can make all the difference in a student’s trajectory.
2. Senior Graduation Alerts
  • For our seniors, the stakes are incredibly high. If you have a senior who is currently at risk of failing a course, this could jeopardize their graduation and ability to walk at graduation.
  • Talk with your senior on steps they can take, and if you are unfamiliar with our support systems, reach out to schedule a meeting with a counselor asap.
Our goal is to ensure every senior has the opportunity to finish strong. Thank you for being the champions our students need!

 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
  • 10th-12th: Make-a-Wish Breezy Car Wash
TUESDAY: B-Day
  • CDM @ 3 PM
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day
  • Advisement: Choose a HERD Time and Study Hall
  • Soak-A-Senior @ Lunch
SATURDAY: JROTC Banquet @ 5 PM

 

Purple Up For a Military Student at of April!

Shoutout to all the staff, students, and community that celebrated a military child on April 10th. Enjoy the quick highlights of our day!
A diverse group of people stand together in a gymnasium, many wearing purple shirts and lanyards.
A large group of young men in purple athletic wear pose for a photo indoors.
Two smiling women in casual attire pose for a photo in a school hallway.
Two smiling individuals, likely educators, stand behind a desk in a school hallway, with a laptop and papers visible.
Two women smile at the camera, standing near a large window with an outdoor area visible.
Three young people in purple shirts and masks stand in a school cafeteria, with one holding a spoon and a cup of pudding.

Athletics and Activities

April 13th-18th

Weekly schedule for Bison Activities in April, featuring sports and events from the 13th to the 18th.
 
Poster announces 'Open Weight Room' at South High School, Monday-Thursday, 3-4 PM.
 

Football Attends Sexual Assult Prevention 5K Run

Thank you to all the football staff and students who went to support a local community outreach to educate the impacts of sexual assault.
Poster announces a SAPR Fun Run 2026 for WY National Guard joint forces and families, featuring a trophy and inflatable figure.
A diverse group of people, some in athletic wear and others in jerseys, stand outdoors near trees and a body of water.
A group of people are jogging on a paved path in a park, with one person pushing a baby in a stroller.
A group of young people in athletic wear are running outdoors near parked cars and a sports field.
 

2nd Week of April

April 6th-11th

Bison Families

April 7th, all juniors will report to school by 7:20 am to take the ACT assessment. Just a reminder, buses will run at regular times before school. After school buses depart at 1 PM and 3 PM, students will be dropped off at their nearest elementary school.

All freshmen, sophomores, and seniors will have a Remote Learning Day and will not report to the building.
Tomorrow morning, a Parent Square will be sent out with the assignment for all 9th,10th, and 12th-grade students. 

 
Culver's Share Day graphic promoting World Wish Day on April 29, benefiting Make-A-Wish Wisconsin.

Culver's Make-A-Wish Night - WEDNESDAY

Student Council is hosting a Culver's night on Wednesday from 5 to 8 PM to raise money for Make-A-Wish.

Cash donations are accepted at the door!
 

April 10th: Purple Up! Celebrate a Military Child

At South High School, we are proud to be a Wyoming Purple Star School. We recognize that our military-connected students face unique challenges, from frequent moves to parent deployments, and we are committed to supporting their success and resilience.

On Friday, April 10th, we will officially kick off our "Purple Up!" celebration to raise awareness and honor our military-connected Bison.

Event Highlights for April 10th:
  • Flag Raising Ceremony: We will begin the day with a Moment of Silence at the flagpole as our JROTC students raise a special purple flag. This ceremony serves as a visual reminder of the sacrifices made by military children.
  • Military Student Honor Card: All military-connected students will be invited to the SAC during the day to receive a purple cupcake and contribute to our Service Honor Wall. The Honor Wall will be proudly displayed in the Commons to celebrate students' unique military family identities.
  • HERD Time Lesson: Students will participate in a Military Child Awareness Lesson. This lesson focuses on empathy, the history of the Purple Star program, and the impact of military life on education. All students will be invited to contribute to the Service Honor Wall with a statement about their family members who have served or are serving currently. We welcome photos of our Bison Community Service Members to place on the Honor Wall. Please bring all photos by April 10th.

How You Can Join Us
We encourage all students and families to wear purple on April 10th at 8 AM to show your support and participate in our spirit week.

If you have photos of your student or family in uniform that you would like to share for our school's "Honor Wall," please have your student bring a copy to the main office/SAC.

Thank you for being part of our military-connected community. We are honored to serve your families.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
  • 6 PM Board Meeting
TUESDAY: ACT DAY
  • 11th Grade: Report to South
  • 9th, 10th, 12th Grade:Virtual Day
  • Parent Advisory: 5:30PM in the Library
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
  • Culver's Make-a-Wish Night 5 PM to 8 PM
THURSDAY: B-Day
  • Band Concert @ 7 PM
FRIDAY: B-Day - WEAR PURPLE
  • HERD TIME: Military Child and WYTOPP Lesson on Canvas
  • Purple Up Picture in the GYM @ 11:55
 

Athletics and Activities

April 6th-11th

A weekly schedule of Bison Activities for April 6-11, featuring sports events and a band concert.
 
Poster for a "BAND CONCERT" on "9th APRIL" at "7PM" in "SHS Auditorium", featuring a stylized bison and musical notes.
 

Quarter 4

March 30th-April 3rd

Bison Families

Welcome back from Spring Break. I hope each family got a chance to rest and recharge, because we have a busy April and May ahead of us.

In the first week of April, we are beginning our fundraising efforts for Make-A-Wish. We encourage everyone to participate in some way as we raise money for a child’s treatment journey. When a child is facing a critical illness, their world becomes very small, filled with hospital walls and treatments. By donating, we are providing a spark of hope that has been proven to improve physical and emotional well-being, giving these children the strength they need to keep fighting.

APRIL 1ST: Tyson's Got Talent
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Make-A-Wish Talent Show! We are coming together to reach our fundraising goals through a spectacular showcase of student and staff talent. We wish all our performers the very best of luck as they take the stage!

Parents: If your student is performing, we invite you to join us in the auditorium to cheer them on. Get ready for an incredible display of creativity and community spirit!

APRIL 3RD: Make-up and Make-a-Wish Kick off
All 9th-, 10th-, and 12th-grade students are invited to the Make-A-Wish Kick-Off during HERD Time in the auditorium. It costs each person 1 dollar to attend. Juniors will not be able to attend due to ACT registration.

Other upcoming Make-a-Wish Events
· Teacher Challenges (4/1-4/24) 
· Culver’s Charity Night (4/7) 
· Matching w/ Breez-Thru Car Wash (4/10-4/12) 
· Dirty Soda Sales and Soak-a-Senior at Lunch: (4/17) 
· Spare Change Challenge @ Pep Assembly (4/24)

 

April 3rd: ACT Registration

All Juniors are required to go to the commons to complete their ACT online registration during HERD time on Friday. Please remind your student to have a charged iPad.
We expect students to be late to their 2nd hour for any tech complications.
 

April 4th: NHS Easter Egg Hunt

Hop on over! NHS is hosting a community Easter Egg Hunt on April 4th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Join us for a morning of fun with both indoor and outdoor activities for everyone. We’re looking forward to an egg-straordinary time!
 

Next Week Reminders: April 6th-10th

 
A 'Test Day Checklist' for the ACT exam, with tips for preparation.

ACT Day: Juniors

APRIL 7TH: ACT Day
All Juniors will report to South High School to take the ACT no later than 7:30.

Reminders:
  • All exams begin at 8 am. If you are late, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
  • All students must have a student ID or a driver's license to enter the testing area.
  • Students cannot have their phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or other electronic devices in the testing area. We recommend students leave them in their car, at home, or in school-designated areas.
  • Use the provided calculator handout to bring the appropriate device.
ACT Calculator Policy document outlining permitted and prohibited calculators for testing.

Virtual Day: 9th, 10th, 12th Grade

APRIL 7TH: Virtual Day
On Tuesday, April 7th, East, Central, and South High Schools will have a Virtual Learning Day for freshmen, sophomores, and seniors. Only juniors will report to school that day, and none of the other students will report to the building.

Students will spend the morning exploring military, college, and career options. An attendance activity will be placed in the student's advisement canvas page. The link to the assignment will be shared next week.

 
 

Attendance Matters: Aim For 90

Congratulations to our 10th Grade Sophomores! They have officially claimed 1st Place in our March Friday Attendance Competition. The Sophomore class will receive a Lucky Treat! Stay tuned for more details on when and where these will be distributed.

A Look at the Big Picture
While the Sophomores won the month, the Seniors (12th Grade) are currently leading the pack for the Attendance Percent for the Year at 90.68%, meeting our school-wide goal!

Let’s keep that momentum going into April. Every Friday, and every day, counts.

Remember Attendance Matters!

 

Athletics and Activities

March 30th-April 4th

A weekly schedule for Bison Activities from March 30th to April 4th, featuring sports and events.

3rd Week of March

16th-21st

Bison Families

It's the last week of the Quarter. Friday is a half day for student to give teachers time to finalize their grades. So, please ensure your student has turned in all missing work and has taken advantage of all the provided intervention times to support student learning and the teacher's ability to grade effectively.

Waiting until the last minute to turn in work and seek help can have many unforeseen consequences, such as late work deductions, missed deadlines, and a lack of credit.

Please review the provided district grading policies to stay informed and to advocate for your student. Do not hesitate to reach out to teachers on Parent Square or Email if you have concerns or questions.

DISTRICT GRADING POLICIES:
Section 07.13: Student Assessments
13. STUDENT ASSESSMENTS.  A focus on student learning necessitates the development and administration of a variety of assessments. These assessments provide formative and summative information regarding student progress toward attaining content knowledge and proficiency in District standards. 

Assessments serve as tools for maintaining a focus on improved student achievement by communicating academic growth to students, parents and the community as well as providing feedback to teachers which enables them to adjust programming and instruction to meet the needs of all students.  

The District supports a comprehensive testing program with adequate resources, professional development and efficient and effective information management and reporting systems. 

GRADING SYSTEMS AND REPORTS OF STUDENT PROGRESS 
Laramie County School District Number One emphasizes academic achievement and student learning. Therefore, grades are based on the embedded assessments of progress toward standards proficiency, as measured by District assessments and other evidence of knowledge and skills attained in classes. Other forms of assessments will, where appropriate, include: common course assessments, semester and/or final exams, unit tests, classroom assessments, and coursework assignments.  

Accurate and meaningful records of individual students will be maintained and issued to parents at the end of each grading period. Parent-teacher conferences regarding student academic progress will be held at least once a year. Weekly and/or quarterly progress reports, as well as daily parent internet access to student progress, may be provided.  

Standards proficiency and mastery of course knowledge will be utilized in making decisions regarding progression to higher levels of instruction and/or the next grade.  

Grades and proficiencies may be communicated through either a letter or a rubric grading system.  

Students and/or parents/guardians may dispute standard scores awarded during the school year by requesting a review of student scores on the District assessment system for the disputed standard(s) by contacting the School Principal and then the Division of Instruction.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: Half Day/ A-Day
  • 1A: 7:45 - 8:34 
  • 2A: 8:39 - 9:28 
  • 3A: 9:33 - 10:22 
  • 4A: 10:27 - 11:15 
Grab and go cold lunch provided at the end of the day.

 

Department of the Week: Fine and Performing Arts

I want to take a moment and recognize the extraordinary efforts and achievements of the South High School Fine and Performing Arts Department during February and March 2026. This period has been one of the most intensive and impactful performance seasons in recent history, and our staff has demonstrated remarkable determination and professionalism.
Over the past two months, the team has hosted numerous high-profile events that have not only benefited our students but have also positioned South High as a cultural hub for the Cheyenne community. These include:
  • The Spring Musical: A massive undertaking involving hundreds of hours and significant coordination.
  • All-City Jazz, Band, Choir, and Orchestra Concerts: This year, we hosted all triad schools for choir, orchestra, and band in preparation for their All-City concerts. This is a very large undertaking and takes months of communication and collaboration.
  • Jazz Festival: Gino has taken our students around the state, offering opportunities at many colleges to gain experience and exposure. His efforts are starting to pay off because many of our band students are being offered scholarships, admission to honors programs, and more.
  • FFA Benefit performance: The Jazz band offered to perform at a Saturday afternoon benefit event to raise money for one of our students who lost his home in a fire.
The dedication required to execute these events, while maintaining high-quality daily instruction, is appreciated and valued. Their Determination to provide every student with a platform for artistic growth is inspiring, and I want to say thank you!
A woman in a black lace top and pearl necklace smiles at the camera from behind a grand piano.
A man in a tuxedo smiles while holding a white electronic device in a classroom setting.
A man wearing a large blue sombrero smiles at the camera while seated at a table in a restaurant.
A jazz ensemble poses for a photo on a stage, with some members holding instruments.
A large orchestra of students plays instruments in a gymnasium with an audience seated in bleachers.
 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: JROTC

Last week, JROTC hosted visitors from the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center and the Cheyenne Police Department, who collaborated with our JROTC department to offer a Stop the Bleed opportunity for cadets. Thanks, COL Salsgiver and MSG Twiss, for providing students with real-world opportunities.
A diverse group of people, including a police officer and individuals in military-style uniforms, stand together in a room with Airborne and Ranger flags.
 

Athletics and Activities

March 16th-21st

A weekly calendar titled 'Bison Activities' for March 16-21, detailing events like FFA State Vet Science, Trades Day, and a Softball Tournament.
 

Big Country FFA Makes History!

This week, the Big Country FFA Chapter made history by earning its first-ever Gold Emblem ranking for our chapter program in the areas of Growing Leaders, Building Communities, and Strengthening Agriculture.
FFA also has another milestone to celebrate!
Andrea Rose is the first Big Country FFA member to qualify for the Wyoming State FFA Speech Contest. Next month, she will compete against nine other finalists for the title of Wyoming FFA's top prepared public speaker. The South Community is incredibly proud of our students and the hard work they put in to represent our school and community! 
 

SPRING FOOTBALL has started.

These coaches came together to share a message of GRIT and ASONE! They are pushing students to participate in early morning workouts and evening footwork. Thank you for helping to cultivate a culture of commitment and hard work among our students!
 

2nd Week of March

9th-14th

Bison Families

Let’s finish Quarter 3 strong!! Taking a few minutes this week to review grades and missing work with your student can make all the difference. We want every student to head into Spring Break feeling caught up and ready to recharge.

To support our students in finishing the quarter strong, please keep these resources in mind:
  • Extended Day: Monday–Thursday | 3:00–4:00 PM
  • Office Hours: Check with individual teachers for specific times.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: B-Day with HERD

 
A chart displays attendance percentages for 12th, 11th, 10th, and 9th grades for March weeks and the year, titled 'FRIDAY Attendance Competition'.

Attendance Matters: Friday Challenge

The results for the first week of March are in, and the 9th Grade is currently setting the pace with 78.37%!

However, looking at the full year, our Seniors are the only ones holding steady above the 90% mark. - The senior class will be rewarded this week for the spicy results in February, and will be released early from a class on Monday to collect their prize.

Every person counts. Let’s AIM FOR 90% this Friday!

#AttendanceMatters #HERD

 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: Marcheses's AP Language and Composition

This week, I had the pleasure of seeing an AP class do a quiz-quiz trade Kagan Strategy to work on punctuation terms in preparation for their IXL exam. Then the students completed a test prep for an AP writing exam by racing against the clock to gather textual evidence and resources, transforming a standard test-prep session into a collaborative research for knowledge. Marchese calls the activity a Collaborative Sprint, which turned out to be a scavenger hunt to prepare for their timed writing exam. 

I also want to celebrate her use of the cellphone caddy. Almost all students in the class had their cellphones in the caddy, and she rewards them daily with a sucker at the end of class. Overall, Marchese demonstrated strategies and planning for high engagement, rigor, preparation, and rewards.

 

Congratulations, Aaron Walker and Dan Marcum!

Your representation on the Board was greatly appreciated. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our Bison Family!

Watch Aaron talk about his future plans on the District's Facebook page.
 

Athletics and Activities

March 9th-14th

March calendar for Bison Activities, highlighting events from the 9th to the 14th.
A smiling young woman in a yellow track uniform stands in an indoor track and field arena.
South High School State Indoor Track & Field Highlights with athlete names and times.
 

ALL CITY BAND Shout-out

This past week, our halls were filled with a different kind of energy as we hosted the All-City Band collaboration. It was an absolute privilege to welcome the band directors from the University of Wyoming, Kelly Walsh, and Sheridan to work alongside our very own talented directors.

A huge thank you to the visiting directors for sharing their expertise, to our staff for their tireless coordination, and to the parents who support these young musicians every day. Our students didn't just play notes this week; they built bridges through art.
A large band performs in a gymnasium, with a conductor leading from the front.

1st Week of March

2nd-7th

Bison Families

At South High School, we believe that hard work and positive choices deserve to be celebrated. A huge thank you goes out to our PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Supports) Committee! This dedicated team of staff members consistently analyzes behavior and learning data to find new ways to honor our students' achievements.

Minga Rewards & The School Store
The PBIS team has been working closely with teachers to implement reward points through Minga. Students earn these points for demonstrating our HERD values, and they can spend them in our teacher and school stores. Popular items include:
  • Sweet treats and snacks
  • Essential school supplies
  • Bison Pride apparel 

The March to Denver Reward Trip 
Our PBIS team also develops our whole-school rewards. Our most anticipated event is the upcoming trip to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science on April 9th! This is a high-honor trip, and to qualify for the end-of-March celebration, students must meet these Quarter 3 standards:
  1. Attendance: 92% or higher
  2. Academics: 3.0 GPA or higher
  3. Behavior: 0 behavior referrals

Save the Date: Honor Roll Ceremony 
We are also proud to announce our upcoming Honor Roll Ceremony, hosted by the PBIS Committee. Honor Roll Students and their Family are invited to celebrate our scholars' academic dedication upon invite to come:
  • When: March 17th
  • Time: 8:30 AM
  • Where: South High School Auditorium
Thank you to our PBIS team for making these opportunities possible and for keeping our students Honorable, Enthusiastic, Responsible, and Determined!

 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day with HERD

 
A chart displays Friday attendance percentages for 12th, 11th, 10th, and 9th grades during February.

AIM For 90: Attendance Matters!

Our Friday Attendance Challenge for February showed some great effort, with our Seniors leading the way at 88.32%.

While we didn't quite hit our 90% campus-wide goal, the data shows we are only a handful of students away from reaching that mark at each grade level.

February Friday Averages: 
  • Seniors: 88.32% 
  • Juniors: 85.90% 
  • Sophomores: 86.49% 
  • Freshmen: 86.38%

We are challenging all students to help us March toward 90 this coming month. Let’s make Fridays our strongest days of the week.

Thank you for partnering with us to keep our students on track for success!
 

Classroom ow the Week: Mr. Brockway's Honors English

We are bursting with Bison Pride for one of our incredible first-year Honors English teachers! High school is all about finding your voice, and this week, our 9th graders mastered the art of persuasion by blending AVID One-Pagers with Kagan Collaborative Practice.

Athletics and Activities

March 2nd-8th

Weekly schedule for Bison Activities in March, highlighting sports events and registration deadlines.
 
Poster announcing 'SPORT PHYSICALS' due March 9th, with various sports balls and a shuttlecock.
 

Bison Stampede: Winter State Qualifier March

This week, we started a new tradition and held a Bison Stampede to celebrate our State Qualifiers this winter season.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in the success of all our students. We are proud of our students for taking a moment out of their day to celebrate our South athletes and activity members.

We recognized: Cheer, Wrestling, Boys Swim, Indoor Track and Field, Speech and Debate.

4th Week of February

23rd-28th

Bison Families

We have just one month left in the quarter. Please take a moment to review your student’s grades and encourage them to turn in any missing assignments. Places students can go for extra support are:

Available Support:
  • HERD Time
  • Extended Day
  • Teacher Office Hours

PBIS Reward for the Quarter 3:
  • Trip to the Denver Science Museum
  • April 9ht
  • Criteria: - 3.0 G.P.A., 92% attendance, and no behavior referrals during quarter 3.

Let’s finish Q3 strong, Bison!
Logo featuring the letters 'S' and 'H' in white and yellow, with 'South High' text below.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
  • Parent Advisory 5:30 to 6:30 PM
  • FFA Degree Ceremony @ 6 PM :Administration Building
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
  • Musical @ 7 PM
FRIDAY: B-Day with HERD
  • Musical @ 7 PM
SATURDAY
  • Musical @7 PM
 

CLASSROOM of the WEEK: Mrs. Weisbrook's AVID Elective

In Weisbrook’s AVID elective, students recently showcased incredible, empowering collaboration. By bringing notes from their other subjects into the AVID classroom, students engaged in a real-world application of their organizational skills.

The class dived deep into critical thinking to truly understand learning outcomes, culminating in a large-group walkthrough guided by supportive questioning. Watching these students process and refine their knowledge together was a true highlight!
 

AIM FOR 90: Attendance Matters

One week left to Aim for 90!
Week 3 saw a massive comeback, with our Sophomores leading the pack at 89.04%. We are this close to the mark. Let’s finish February strong, and encourage your students to show up this Friday to secure that Valentine treat for their class!

Athletics and Activities

Feb 23th-28th

February 23-28 schedule for Bison Activities, including National FFA Week, basketball games, and wrestling.
A female wrestler, Teegan, stands confidently in her wrestling singlet, a WHSAA State Wrestling Qualifier.

Good Luck at State Lady Bison!

We wish Teegan the best of luck at State. - GO BISON!
Five young men stand on a podium, celebrating their success as State Qualifiers for South High Wrestling.

BISON STRONG WRESTERS!

Tristan, Zack, Johnathan, Mason, and Evan are headed to State! -BISON STRONG!

3rd Week of February

16th-21st

Silhouettes of people dancing under vibrant neon lights at a "Dark Neon Night Winter Dance".

Bison Families

This week, our Athletic Department is pulling out all the stops for the Winter Dance! The team has to transform the gym into a festive space, complete with food trucks and a few top-secret surprises you won't want to miss.
  • When: Saturday, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Where: AUX Gym
Come ready to eat, dance, and make some memories!

A big thank you to everyone in the athletic department for the planning, decorating, supervising, and collaborating to make a special night for our students. #1HERD!
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: No School
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day with HERD
SATURDAY: Winter Dance 8 to 11 pm - Thank you, Athletic Department, for taking on the supervision of the dance!

Future Dates: Parent Advisory, February 24th - Topic: Teacher and Coach appreciation.
 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: Mrs. Zumbo's AP Art Class

Mrs. Zumbo's Art class was a breath of fresh air yesterday. I discussed with a few students what their current projects are and what they enjoyed about the class. -Keep up the inspiring work, Zumbo!

 

Herff Jones is in the building!

If you need help with your graduation orders or prefer to talk to someone in person, stop by the commons on February 25 between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM.

This is their final visit, so make sure to stop by if you have any questions or still need to place your order!
 

Athletics and Activities

February 16th-21st

A weekly schedule for Bison Activities in February, featuring events from the 16th to the 21st.

2nd Week of February

9th-13rth

Bison Families

Course Registration has begun. Students will be pulled out of their 2nd-period classes to finalize their 26-27 registration and discuss future pathways and required classes. Discuss with your students their post-secondary opportunities that align with college, career, and military readiness.
Graphic with a bison head logo above three triangles labeled COLLEGE, CAREER, and MILITARY.
 
A chart displays Friday attendance competition results for 12th, 11th, 10th, and 9th grades in February.

AIM FOR 90: ATTENDANCE MATTERS!

We have officially kicked off our February Friday Attendance Competition. Our goal is: Aim for 90%.

Last week, our school-wide attendance rate hit 88.15%. We are just a few percentage points away from our goal, and we know our students can bridge that gap!

The grade level with the highest Friday attendance for the month of February will win a special Valentine's treat!

See you Friday!
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: B-Day with HERD

Upcoming: No School February 16th for President's Day.
 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: STUDENT COUNCIL

Huge shoutout to our Student Council for their incredible performance at the recent Splash for Cash event during our basketball game!

Thomas Bechtel took to the court to shoot baskets and raise funds for future Stuco initiatives. Thanks to Tom's aim, they earned a staggering $1,080 for our school!

A massive thank you to Riverstone Bank for their incredible generosity and for sponsoring such a high-energy event. This donation will go a long way in supporting our student leadership and school activities.

Athletics and Activities

February 9th-14th

February 9-14 Bison Activities schedule featuring basketball, wrestling, swim, speech, debate, and track events.
 
Six students proudly display their medals on a staircase.

Speech and Debate

Speech and Debate traveled to Laramie this weekend and brought home a horde of medals!

HORNS UP!
A group of young people in black attire stand on a staircase, posing for a photo.

State Jazz

Our South High Jazz students recently returned from the State Jazz Festival, and I couldn’t be prouder of how they represented the HERD.

BISON PRIDE!

1st week of February

2nd-7th

Three smiling children, Tyson, Zoey, and Ridge, are featured in a graphic with text about supporting children with congenital heart defects.

Bison Families

SkillsUSA is proud to host this year's American Heart Challenge! We’re inviting the entire school to join the stampede as we raise funds for three children with heart defects: Tyson, Zoey, and Ridge.

This Friday, students in Assembly will participate in The Heart of the Herd. This is our moment to be Responsible members of this community and Enthusiastic supporters of a cause greater than our own. Please bring your spare change to the assembly. Every cent helps us step up for these families. ONE HERD, three heroes, one big goal!
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE


MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
  • NHS Blood Drive, Aux Gy,m 9 am to 1 pm
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day with HERD
  • Skills USA American Heart Association Assembly

 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: STEM Day

A massive HERD salute goes out to Mr. Schwab for his incredible leadership in organizing our recent STEM Day!

Our CTE departments and JROTC hosted 3rd graders from every single school in the South Triad. It was an inspiring day of Honorable mentorship and Enthusiastic learning. Our future Bison got hands-on experience with tire changing, electrical circuit fans, robots, VR, drone flight, and more!

Thank you all for showcasing the amazing opportunities we offer here at South and for building learning bridges with our future students. Your Determination to make this event engaging did not go unnoticed!
 
Attendance competition chart showing weekly and yearly percentages for 12th, 11th, 10th, and 9th grades.

AIM For 90: Finish Strong Fridays!

Congratulations to the Senior Class! 
With a January average of 90.09%, the 12th graders are our Aim for 90 champions. Your Taki celebration will be delivered during the school day this week. Senior class is Fire!

The February Shift: Focus on Fridays 
For the month of February, we are shifting our attendance goal specifically to Fridays.

Why Fridays? 
Data shows that Friday is consistently our least attended day across all grade levels. To reach our goals and stay on track for graduation, every single day matters. We want to see our HERD values: Honorable, Enthusiastic, Responsible, and Determined on full display right through the final bell of the week.

Let’s step up, show up, and finish every week strong!
 

NHS Blood Drive: Tuesday the 3rd

This month, our National Honor Society is putting those HERD values into action by hosting our annual Community Blood Drive.

We are calling on our students, staff, and families to help us tackle the current regional blood shortage. A single donation takes less than an hour but can save up to three lives. This is a powerful opportunity for our students to HERD Together for a greater cause.
  • Date: February 3rd
  • Time: 9am to 1pm
  • Location: South High School AUX GYM

Information for Student HERO Donors:
  • Age & Consent: Donors must be at least 16 years old. Students aged 16 and 17 must provide a signed parental consent form (available in the front office or attached to this email).
  • Physical Requirements: Donors must meet height and weight requirements (typically 110+ lbs) and be in good general health.
  • Preparation: We encourage all donors to eat a hearty, iron-rich meal and drink plenty of water the evening before and the morning of the drive.

Whether your student is a first-time donor or you are a community member looking to give back, we invite you to join the HERD in this life-saving mission. Use the QR code provided to schedule an appointment.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and our community!
Sincerely,
 

Athletics and Activities

Feb 2nd-7th

A weekly calendar of Bison Activities for February, highlighting events from the 2nd to the 7th.
 

Save the Date: Winter Dance Feb 21st

The Athletic Department is hosting this year's Winter Dance. Tell students to light up the night with this year's Dark Neon Night on Feb 21st from 8 to 11 pm.
 

4TH Week of January

2nd Semester

Table titled 'Credits Required for Promotion' showing grade levels and corresponding credits needed.

Bison Families

We have officially finalized Semester 1 grades. We encourage you to review your student’s Infinite Campus profile to celebrate their successes and evaluate their progress.

For students with a credit deficiency, our counseling team will contact them to build a recovery plan. Our goal is to address these needs now to avoid the need for a summer school recommendation. Thank you for your continued partnership in your student's success.
 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: A-Day
TUESDAY: B-Day
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
  • 3rd Grade Stem Day - Gym
THURSDAY: B-Day
  • 3rd Grade Stem Day - Gym
FRIDAY: B-Day with HERD

 
Attendance competition chart showing weekly percentages for 12th, 11th, 10th, and 9th grades.

AIM for 90: Attendance Matters

We have one more week to earn Takis for this month's reward! The race is tight: the Seniors are holding steady at the top, but the Juniors and Sophomores are within striking distance.

Can your grade level Aim for 90% this week? Every day counts toward the January Class Winner title.

Let's get to class and win those Takis!

 

CLASSROOM OF THE WEEK: Mr. Cox's Agriculture Class

A huge shout-out to our Ag students and teacher for spreading some joy with flower arrangements! Students worked hard to design and create beautiful floral bouquets, which were then delivered to members of our local community.

Seeing our students use their hands-on skills to give back is what being Honorable and Responsible is all about. Thank you, Ag, for representing our school so well!
A group of teenagers stands together, each holding a small bouquet of red and white flowers.

Athletics and Activities

January 26th-31st

A January calendar displays 'Bison Activities' with daily schedules for sports and events from the 26th to the 31st.

Congratulations Cheer on taking 3rd at State in Game Day!

A cheerleading team in gold and black uniforms poses for a photo, holding pom-poms, with "2026 4A GAME DAY" and "3RD PLACE" text.
 

1st Week of the Semester

January 19th-23rd

Bison Families

Welcome to Semester 2!
Our staff will be revisiting HERD Values, Attendance Goals, Cellphone Policies, and Classroom Expecations this week. All parents are invited to our Parent Advisory on Tuesday at 5:30 to review our 1st semester school data and improvement plan. Please come and celebrate and share any additional concerns.

AIM for 90: Attendance Matters

We have a massive goal this year: Aim for 90. We want 90% of our students in the building every single day to ensure everyone is learning, growing, and succeeding. Currently, we are so close! Our Seniors are leading the pack at over 90%, and as a school, we are sitting at 89%. 
But there is one thing holding us back: Fridays.

While our attendance is strong Monday through Thursday, it drops to 85% every Friday. That means 5% of our Bison family is missing out on the most important wrap-up lessons, labs, and community activities of the week.

The Friday Challenge: Finish as a HERD
We are calling on every student and parent to help us close that Friday gap. Let’s show our HERD values:
  • Honorable: Show up for your teachers and your teammates.
  • Enthusiastic: Bring the energy to the finish line of the week.
  • Responsible: Own your learning from Monday all the way through Friday.
  • Determined: Don’t let Friday Fatigue stop your progress.
Parents: Thank you for partnering with us. By ensuring your student is here on Friday, you are helping us hit our school-wide goal and keeping them from starting the weekend behind on their learning.

Students: Let’s see which grade level can have the highest Friday attendance this week. Can the Juniors catch the Seniors? Let’s find out.

See you Friday morning, Bison!
Bar chart showing daily attendance rates from Monday to Friday, with percentages ranging from 85.0% to 90.0%.
 
Poster for Pathway Elective Fair at South High on January 21st, 4:30-6:30 PM.

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

MONDAY: NO SCHOOL
TUESDAY: C-Day with HERD Time
  • Parent Advisory: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
WEDNESDAY: A-Day
  • PBIS Reward Day: 11:45 AM to 1:30: Students will attend the Events Center for PBIS rewards for attendance, behavior, and grades. The PBIS team will be sending out the list on Tuesday morning. Our hope is that they will be back in class for 4th hour. The next PBIS quarter reward is a trip to the Denver Science Museum. Please promote excellent attendance, behavior, and grades to support the PBIS committee. Students need a 92% attendance rate, 3.5 Term GPA, and no behavior referrals for Quarter 3.

  • Pathway Elective Night - 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM: 8th graders will visit South to pick Electives for next year and explore our pathway options. This event is open to all our Bison Community to see what pathway options we offer students.

THURSDAY: B-Day
FRIDAY: A-Day with HERD Time
 
Students sit at desks in a classroom, facing a large interactive screen displaying a timer and an image.

Classroom of the Week: Mrs. Lindt's AP Government

I wanted to celebrate Mrs. Lindt, who has hit the ground running after having a beautiful baby. She has spent the week recalibrating her students' behaviors and has them already engaging in high-level discussions, collaborative activities, and group performances.
 

Athletics and Activities

January 19th-24th

A weekly schedule for Bison Activities in January, featuring sports and school events from the 19th to the 24th.
 
A cheerleading team poses for a photo on a track field, with text wishing them good luck at state cheer this weekend.


[Saturday, Apr 25 at 7:51 PM]
Bison News: April 27th-May 1st