This notification is to inform all CHS students of the schedule for Keystone Assessments next week.  The subjects involved in testing are Algebra I, Literature and Biology.  Proficiency on these tests is required in the state of Pennsylvania for students to graduate beginning with the class of 2017. 

Testing for sophomores and freshmen will take place between periods 1 to 4 (7:51-10:43) each scheduled day.  All 10th Grade students will test on May 15-16 for Literature, all students currently taking Biology will test on May 22-23,  and all students currently taking Algebra I or who have not achieved proficiency in Algebra will test on May 17th and 20th.  May 21st and 24th are make-up days.

Junior re-tests will also be on May 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 21st and 22nd. If you have questions regarding the testing, please contact the school and speak with Mrs. Spaid, building testing coordinator.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Danielle Anderson, a senior at Clearfield High School, has won the Fifth Congressional District's 2013 High School Art Competition, which was sponsored by U.S. Rep. Glenn 'GT' Thompson.   Anderson's artwork, "Giraffe," a colored pencil drawing, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Complex in Washington, D.C. for the next year.  "Danielle is a tremendously talented individual and artist and her work is deserving of this recognition," stated Thompson.  "Ms. Anderson should be proud of this beautiful artwork, which will now hang in the halls of the nation's Capital for the world to enjoy."

The contestants for the 2013 High School Art Competition were honored May 4th at the Winkler Art Gallery in DuBois, at 36 N. Brady St..  The winning artworks will be displayed publically for the remainder of the week.  "The artistic creativity of the students of the 5th District of Pennsylvania was on full display this week," added Thompson.   "I want to thank all participants for their hard work, along with the families, friends, supporters, teachers and judges for making this competition such a success."  The entries were judged by local artists from across the 5th District, including Steve Hindman of Clearfield, Bev Verbeke of Erie, Christine Eckert of Lock Haven and Susan Loskoski of DuBois.
Article/photo courtesy GantDaily

2013 Art Winner *FIRST PLACE*
Danielle Anderson, a senior at Clearfield High School
Title: GiraffeMedium: Color Pencil
Description: "The right side of a giraffe face and ear"

Additional 2013 Winners:
Honorable Mention:  Abby Swales, a junior at Clearfield High School.
Title: Cat   Medium: Colored pencil
Description: "A close-up image of a cat that shows detail in the fur and eye. The eye is the focal point."

 PROM 2013:  "New York, New York"
The Clearfield High School juniors and seniors and their dates will spend an evening in "New York, New York" in a city-themed gymnasium this Saturday, May 11th from 7:00-10:30 PM at the high school.

Parents, friends, and community members may view the gym between 5:15-6:15 PM.  At 6:15 PM, all persons will be asked to leave the gym/front commons area for safety/security reasons.  No one will be permitted to enter the building after 6:15 PM.

The promenade will begin promptly at 6:30 PM.  It will be held outside, weather permitting.  If the promenade is canceled, it will be announced Friday afternoon.

The advisors for the junior class are Ms. Leann Schaeffer and Mrs. Tiffany Warlow.

Right: Decorating the CHS gym is under way!

Clearfield VFW Ladies Auxiliary announces the winners of the 2013 Young American Patriotic Poster Contest.  Each entry was judged on originality of concept, patriotism expressed, and design technique.

The VFW Ladies Auxiliary organization supports and funds youth programs and scholarship opportunities.  Rachele's first place win will advance her entry to competition at the VFW District level.

Congratulations and appreciation to all the winners and students for their participation!
Pictured are Rachele Hale, Emily Dearing, and Micaela Potter along with VFW contest chairman Katherine Fridberg. 
(Submitted by Rose Nowak)

The Clearfield High School has announced its students of the month for March 2013.  Individual teachers select students of the month based on good citizenship, collaboration with others, volunteerism and attention to academics.  The students of the month for March are:

Accounting I: Alyssa Broad

ACE Advanced Word Processing, Database, and Spreadsheet: Abigail Snyder

Anatomy: Jessica Shomo

AP Statistics: Isaiah Cutler

Art: Emily Dearing

Calculus: Mikayla Eberling

Economics: Megan Shugarts

English: Eric Daub and Josh Kitchen

English, Grade 9: Nicholas Veihdeffer

English, Grade 10: Joshua Kennedy and Allison Carns

English, Grade 11: Jill Heichel

English IV AP: Corey Root

English, Grade 12: Taylor McGonigal

Freshman Seminar: Micah Hummel

German: Kyle Thompson

Introduction to Word Processing, Database, and Spreadsheet: Emily Hoover

Pre-calculus: Carson Steiner

Public Speaking: Shannon Reinke and Brenna Berry

Science, Grade 11: Naomi Bradley

Spanish II: Jessica Matten
Swimming Physical Education: Brandon McGarry

World Cultures: Alissa McKenrick and Nicolas Hudson

 DUAL ENROLLMENT MEETING
For CASD Grade 8-11 STUDENTS & PARENTS
If you are interested in learning about the opportunities for CHS students to earn college credit in high school, please plan on attending!
WHEN:  Wednesday, May 8th at 6:30 PM
WHERE:  Clearfield Middle School Auditorium
WHAT:  A meeting to discuss & explain how students can earn college credits while in high school 
CONTACT:   Susan Spaid, Senior Class Counselor and Dual Enrollment Coordinator, at 765-2401 x 2144 or sspaid@clearfield.org
Information about the dual enrollment program and ALSO the Associates in the High School program offered by Pennsylvania Highlands Community College will be provided at this meeting.  Students can actually earn an associate degree by their senior year!  If you are interested in learning about the opportunities for CHS students to earn college credit, please be at this meeting!  A representative from PA Highlands Community College will be here to present information along with representatives from the high school.  For more information, please contact Mrs. Spaid at the numbers or email above.

The Susquehanna River Arts Center is sponsoring the 3rd Annual Clearfield High School Student Art Show during the month of April at the Joseph & Elizabeth Shaw Public Library in downtown Clearfield.  The 2013 show was judged by Mr. Steve Hindman, and SRAC will award the winners with over $500.00 in cash prizes!!  The awards ceremony, which is open to the public, will be held at the Library and will close the show on Saturday, May 4th from 1:00 - 2:00 PM.  The public is invited to stop by the Library and check out the awesome work the students at CHS have created. 

The CHS Art Department would like to give a special thanks to SRAC for all of their hard work in sponsoring and organizing such a wonderful opportunity for our students!  Congratulations to all of the winners and all who participated to make this a truly spectacular show!  You have made CHS very proud!  The winners are as follows:

BEST OF SHOW/CHS Outstanding Artist - $150.00  Danielle Anderson --'Giraffe', Colored Pencil
1st Place - $75.00  Emily Dearing --'Box Camera & Tree Frog', Colored Pencil
2nd Place - $50.00  Gabby Naddeo --'Giraffe Bank', Ceramic Pinch Pot
3rd Place - $35.00  Brandon Borger --'Iron Man', Colored Pencil
4th Place - $25.00  Abby Swales --'Cat', Colored Pencil
Honorable Mention - $5.00
Ausha Shaw --'Greek Influenced Coil Pot', Ceramic Coil Pot
Althea Lauver --'Sam Winchester', Multi-Media
Callie Keith --'Jagger Browski Miester', Digital Print
Natosha Dixon --'Smile', Colored Pencil
Tia Lombardo --'Clown Fish', Colored Pencil
Michaela Potter--'White Horse', Colored Pencil
Maggie Naddeo--'Rose', Pencil
Juror's Award - $15.00
Kenton Climie --'One Footed Burchell's Starling', Colored Pencil
Kaylee Peacock --'Horned Sea Monster', Ceramic Sculpture
Braze Greenaway --'CD Cover Design', Computer Generated Design
Natalie Lemmo --'Bow Box', Ceramic Slab Pot
Melissa Evans --'Puppy', Pencil
Jensen Maines -Untitled, Colored Pencil
Kenny Conway --'Tiger', Colored Pencil 
Taylor Dixon --'Rooster', Colored Pencil
Natosha Dixon --'Ocean Sky', Digital Print
Brandon Nishida --'Regina Spektor', Pencil
Koral Seaburn --'Colorful Weave', Burlap/Yarn

On April 5, 2013 the National Spanish Exam was administered to 120 students of Clearfield High School currently enrolled in the Spanish program.  Levels 3 Honors and 4AP Spanish students took the test in the morning and levels 1 and 2 students took it in the afternoon.  The tests were voluntary and were taken electronically using laptops to test the knowledge of the Spanish students compared to others throughout the nation.  The district Tech Department staff aided a great deal to help make this possible.

The students were specifically tested according to their level of Spanish.  Each test included an achievement section, which included vocabulary and grammar questions, and a proficient section, which included examining pictures, listening to clips of audio and comprehending paragraphs of Spanish text to answer questions correctly.  The methods of answering questions included by selecting multiple-choice answers, by selecting drop-down menu answers, and by filling in the blank.  Students were given forty-two minutes for each section and were allotted a break in between.

Students paid an entrance fee of $5 in the fall to take part in the National Spanish Exam.  The success of the exam is due largely in part to the Spanish department's contribution to practicing the Spanish language with its students.  Exercises to train for the exam were involved in the Spanish curriculum of both Mrs. Zimdahl-McManus' and Miss Crisafulli's classes throughout the year and especially leading up to the day of the test.

SATURDAY, APRIL 6th
Benefit VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT @ CHS 
Come and support the Magagnotti family on Saturday, April 6th at the Volleyball Tournament sponsored by CHS Student Council.  Please get a team together and join in on the fun!  There are two divisions -- a recreational division, and a power division for more serious competitors.

REGISTRATION materials can be found at local businesses and at the main office of the Clearfield High School.

Mrs. Magagnotti has recently been blessed with a baby girl.  Shortly after her baby was born, she was diagnosed with liver cancer.  The costs to raise a baby are high.  Adding to these costs are many doctor appointments and her treatment.

There will be FOOD, FUN, and the joy of helping a local family! Thank you for your support! 

This past week seven CHS students participated in the Region III Choir Festival at Curwensville High School.  The students were Jacob Mandell, Vince Kovach, Sara Stettler, Erik Neville, Matt McKenzie, Rachel Duke and John Lance.

Jacob and Vince both qualified to advance to the All State music festival in Erie this April.  Rachel and John both placed in the top 10 of their respective sections.

Congratulations all!

 

MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
$300 scholarships were presented to 18 different students to attend the summer music camp at Westminster Choir College in New Jersey.  That's a total of $5,400!

Two of these scholarships were presented to Clearfield students, Sara Stettler and Jacob Mandell.  They are pictured with guest conductor, Dr. Amanda Quist.
Congratulations, Sara and Jacob!  

(Info/photos courtesy Mr. Andrew Rothrock MM:ME, Director of Choral Activity)

CLEARFIELD - The late coach Arthur J. Weiss Sr., founder of Clearfield wrestling and the dean of Pennsylvania schoolboy wrestling once said, "I didn't just teach them about wrestling.  I taught them about being a good citizen."  At the Clearfield wrestling banquet, senior Christian Stone defined that legacy left behind by Weiss when he presented a check in the amount of $4,455 to Darlene Rowles of the American Cancer Society.  As part of his senior project, Stone chose to raise money for the local ACS.  "We're required to complete a senior project to graduate.  You can do something simple, or you can do something that has a little more meaning," said Stone.  "I wanted to do something with some meaning to help people.  "And, everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer.  I, for one, have witnessed it first-hand.  It's a really vicious thing."  According to Stone, the monies he raised will assist in funding cancer research and families with financial needs.  He said, "They won't have to worry about that stress, and they can just worry about overcoming cancer."  He said at the time of the team's banquet, he'd raised $4,455; however, "it keeps going up."  Stone said that donors could either donate a flat dollar amount, or a fixed amount per pin by Stone or by the team as a whole.  He said that in 2012-13, the Clearfield wrestling team recorded 104 pins, and he thanked his teammates for contributing "tremendously" to his ACS project.  Stone recorded a team-best 22 pins.

Rowles, on behalf of the ACS and cancer patients in Clearfield County, thanked Stone for thinking of them.  She also thanked the team for wrestling hard to pin opponents this season, saying they helped raise "an amazing amount of money for a high school organization."  According to her, cancer is America's No. 1 health concern with 11 million living who have been diagnosed with cancer.  She said the lift-time risk of people developing cancer now is one of two men and one of three women.  "As Christian said, we all know someone who has been impacted by this disease," said Rowles.  "There will probably be 1.2 million new cases of cancer this year.  That's a staggering number.  Last year in Pennsylvania alone, there were 75,000 cases of cancer.  "That's why we raise hundreds of thousands of dollars every year.  The American Cancer Society funds research.  We have funded more than 45 Nobel Prize winners that have developed cancer research and treatment.  We're the largest non-profit agency funding cancer research."

Stone finished his senior season 34-4 overall.  He had a career record of 128-27, which is tied for fourth best in Clearfield wrestling history.  He's one of just 11 Clearfield wrestlers to achieve the 100-win milestone.  Stone was also a four-time PIAA state qualifier.  "He became one of the leaders and examples of our wrestling program, on and off the mat and in the classroom," said head wrestling coach Jeff Aveni.  "His senior project was absolutely amazing.  Clearfield wrestling, Clearfield High School is going to miss him.  Yes, he won a lot of matches, but he's going to be missed by this school as an example for these younger guys."
Article courtesy Jessica Shirey, Clearfield Wrestling Newsletter Editor Go Bison!

Art students at Clearfield High School recently created painted bowling pins for The Annual Bowl for Kids' Sake fundraiser sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters.   This orginization provides programs, services, and support for children and families of  Clearfield County.  The decoratively-painted pins will be used as prizes for "red pin" bowling strikes.  Great job on a terrific project!
(Info and photo courtesy R. Nowak)

It's Read Across America Week, and to celebrate the CHS English Department is inviting students to join in the fun!  In addition to individual classroom activities, the English teachers are hosting a week-long contest involving daily questions about favorite authors and books, plus a door decorating contest.  Prizes will be awarded.  

Shown with one of the hallway displays promoting Read Across America are, from left, students Frank Butler, Thomas Summers, Ashley Collins, Brandi Hugar, Sawyer Rowels, Joshua Sorbera, and Curtis Daub.


"Be awesome!  Be a book nut!"
"You can find magic wherever you look.
Sit back and relax, all you need is a book."
― DR. SEUSS (Theodor Seuss Geisel, 1904-1991)
March 2nd is the birthday of beloved children's author, Dr. Seuss.  Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

This past week nine (9) students from Clearfield High School participated in the PMEA District 4 Choir Festival at Mifflin County High School. 

Of the nine CHS students who attended, seven (7) qualified to advance to the PMEA Region III Choir Festival scheduled to be held at Curwensville HS in March.  Congratulations!
(Info/photo submitted by Andrew A. Rothrock, CASD Director of Choral Activity/ Asst. Marching Band Director)

Do you have any lovely prom dresses that need a new home?  Looking for a place to donate them?
The CHS Helping Hands Club is currently collecting prom dresses and accessories for Clearfield Community Action's "Prom Closet", located in downtown Clearfield.  The Prom Closet supplies prom dresses and accessories to area students, i.e. each dress will go to a princess in need! 

If you have any dresses or accessories that could be donated, please bring them to the high school and deliver them to Mrs. Emily Zimmerman in Room 206.  We will be collecting prom dresses now until April 15th.  For each dress and accessory donated, students will be entered to win a $25 gift certificate to L.A. Nails. 

DOWNLOAD the flyer at the link below

The 2013 CHS LOCAL SCHOLARSHIP PACKET is now available HERE.
PLEASE NOTE:  The absolute DEADLINE for submitting the completed Application is 12:00 NOON on Wednesday, March 27, 2013.

Check out the 1/30/2013 edition of the CHS online student newspaper The Stampede !

A representative from Jostens will be at the High School on WEDNESDAY, February 6th, during lunches to take orders for class rings.  Sophomore students have received packets with ordering information.  Extra packets are available in the High School Main Office for any sophomore that may not have received one or any juniors or seniors that may be interested.

Clearfield High School will host a free FAFSA Completion Night (FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on Thursday 2/7/2013.  If you need help filling out the FAFSA, bring your 2012 or 2011 tax returns and join us in the high school library at 6:30 PM.   A financial aid specialist will be here to help and answer any questions you may have about completing the FAFSA.  The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is required to qualify for most student aid programs such as the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, institutional awards and low-cost federal student and parent loans. 

Families with questions about the FAFSA Completion Night should contact Mrs. Susan Spaid, Senior Class counselor, at the HS Guidance Office, (814) 765-2401, Ext. 2249 or sspaid@clearfield.org .

Check out the latest edition of the CHS online student newspaper The Stampede !

Recently members of the Clearfield High School Vocational Agriculture Forestry Class completed their Fire Fighter (PA-130) Certification with PA DCNR staff looking on.

The DCNR staff assisted with evaluating and co-teaching the Forestry Certification.  The Vo Ag classes are under the direction of Mrs. Jackie Carr.
(Photo: J. Carr)

Santa made a visit to Ms. Jennifer Mease-Gisewhite's classroom at the Clearfield High School on his way to the North Pole recently!

From left Mrs. Heather Prestash, Assistant Principal, Alissa Bradley, Bradley Barnett, Alex Spingola, Alyssa Rothrock, Tasha Gearhart, Theresa Hardy, Santa, Tony Cantolina, Rena Fisher, Mr. Tim Janocko, Interim Principal, Bronica Dixon, Brooke, Helena Coble, Josh Barnett and Caleb Haywood.

The latest edition of Clearfield High School's own online student newspaper, The Stampede , has arrived on a momentous date, 12/12/12!  Check it out HERE to read many interesting articles about people, programs and events at our high school.  This issue has the added distinction of not only being entirely written by students, but also having the layout and design done entirely by the students.  Congratulations on a job well done!

AT CLEARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL:
'You CAN Help Your Community'
 CANNED FOOD, PAJAMA & BOOK DRIVE
Going On NOW Through FRIDAY 12/14/2012!

We have all heard the age-old saying " IT IS BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE ", and the English Department at Clearfield High School has decided to really put words into action this holiday season.  The English Department is hosting the " You CAN Help Your Community " CANNED FOOD, PAJAMA & BOOK DRIVE to kick off the holiday season.  The English teachers at the high school are running a class competition now through Friday, Dec. 14th to see what English class can put these words into action.  Not only can students donate, but so can community members, too.  If anyone is interested in making a donation please send your donation with a student to the high school or drop one off in the main office. PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHED FLYER BELOW for your reference.   If you have any questions please contact the CHS English Department at 765-2401.  Thank you and Happy Giving!

Tangi Borden, English Teacher
814-765-2401 ext. 2212 tborden@clearfield.org

Kaylee Peacock and Ausha Shaw, CHS Varsity Cheerleaders, will be participating with Varsity Spirit of America Productions in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The group will be opening the parade with a performance in front of Macy's and closing the parade with Santa at Macys. 

The parade starts at 9:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day and the best chance to see the girls in their performances will be on NBC. 

In addition to participating with thecheerleaders, Kaylee was also one of only twelve cheerleaders selected to be on the float of Jimmy Fallon, the popular talk show host, comedian, musician and actor.  She is shown pictured here after a practice with Fallon and the band Rusted Root.

 ***TRIP WAS CANCELLED DUE TO
LAST-MINUTE CANCELLATION OF THE PARADE***
 
BISON BAND TO PARTICIPATE IN WASHINGTON, D.C. PARADE THIS
The Clearfield High School Bison Band will be participating in the Capitol Holiday Parade in Washington, D.C. this Saturday morning, November 24, 2012.  The parade will begin at 11:00 AM, and is to be televised LIVE on ABC television channels.
Go Bison!

Clearfield High School students who are enrolled in physics courses visited Penn State DuBois this week to learn how physics and other sciences can be applied to exciting careers.  In all, 33 students toured the campus and took in presentations from faculty members in the engineering and Information Sciences and Technology (IST) departments. 

"They're seeing physics and science and how it applies to engineering and other areas," said Susan Spaid, the senior class guidance counselor at Clearfield High.   "We want our students to see that these fields are real, and that there are good jobs in these areas."  Spaid said the demonstrations from IST and engineering faculty members showed students that jobs in such fields are more than just office work.  She hoped that they realized how education in the sciences can be applied to hands-on careers.  She said, "So often they think that a career after college is just sitting at a desk. I want them to see that a career in an interesting field is possible, where they can be active and solve problems."  The Penn State DuBois faculty members showcased the hands-on education that they offer, which trains students for the kinds of stimulating careers Spaid had in mind.  In the IST lab, students learned how the variety of the tasks that professionals complete can make for interesting work.  In creating and maintaining vast computer and communications networks, professionals in IST often perform all tasks related to networking, from running cables, to writing software programs.    In the engineering lab, students got a close-up look at the new face of manufacturing.  Modern work in powder metals, for example, requires the use of computer-aided machines to produce precise parts for use in automobiles, home appliances, and more.  People who enter these careers are those who have a strong education in the field, but also are not afraid to get their hands dirty.  Engineering and powder metal professionals are also in high demand in today's economy, which means plenty of opportunity for graduates of engineering programs.  "There are a lot of career opportunities in engineering," said Craig Stringer, assistant professor of engineering at Penn State DuBois.  "We can help them get into those careers.  Education is a key to that. It will open up opportunities for them."

Spaid said the campus visit went a long way in showing her Clearfield High School students the opportunities they'll have in the future, and that they don't have to go far from home to get it.  "We want to broaden the knowledge these kids have.  We want to provide the opportunity for them to see what college is like," she said.  "This is only 20 miles away from home; it's close."  (Article courtesy:  PSU/DuBois Campus www.ds.psu.edu/32648.htm  )


Associate Professor of Engineering Craig Stringer speaks to students about applying physics to engineering fields in the campus engineering lab.

2012-13 Winter Season Passes are now available to purchase for students and adults for all winter Athletic activities sponsored by the Clearfield Area School District.

COST:    Winter Season Passes -- Students $20.00, Adults $30.00
Winter Season Passes by individual sports are as follows:

Boys' Basketball -- $20.00, Girls' Basketball -- $20.00, Swimming -- $15.00, Wrestling -- $10.00
Tickets may be purchased at the Clearfield High School Athletic Office, telephone (814) 765-2401.  Winter Season Passes are not valid unless signed.

 NEWS RELEASE
Clearfield High School offers
 Free FINANCIAL AID NIGHT
for Junior and Senior Students and Parents 
 THURSDAY, NOV. 1 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM 
 Attendees to learn important student aid information

Clearfield High School will host a free Financial Aid Night on THURSDAY 11/1/2012 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM, to be held in the HS library.  District high school Seniors and Juniors and their parents are encouraged to attend this informative session to get a better understanding of the student aid process, and how best to begin planning to fund their higher education.  A student aid expert from PHEAA's Regional Office will be available to provide information and answer questions.  Parents and students will learn what they need to do to apply for all types of financial aid, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is required to qualify for most student aid programs such as the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, institutional awards and low-cost federal student and parent loans.   Participants will also be briefed on Pennsylvania-specific aid programs as well as the importance of searching out free money awards like scholarships to help pay for education costs.  Families with questions about the free Financial Aid Night should contact Mrs. Susan Spaid, Senior Class counselor, at the HS Guidance Office, (814) 765-2401, Ext. 2249 or sspaid@clearfield.org .

The Journalism Class at Clearfield High School has produced the first edition of the new school newspaper, The Stampede.  The online newspaper is written entirely by the Journalism students for the high school students.

Topics in the first issue include the ongoing renovations at the high school, Homecoming 2012, new clubs, and sports.  A number of features on students and a poll about the new lunch menu are also included.  The Journalism Class, instructed by Mrs. Michele Moyer, plans to produce two issues of The Stampede each month.

The newspaper can be found at: www.clearfield.org/thestampede . 

PHOTO:  CHS Journalism class members are, from left: seated - Taylor Frelin and Allie Freeman; and standing - Macala Leigey, Jarret Forcey, Jake Wingate, Alyssa Amblod, Calley Keith, Megan Shurer, and Sarah Smeal. 
(Article/photo courtesy M. Moyer)

Clearfield High School would like to congratulate Kirsten Muirhead for her outstanding performance on the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test.  Kirsten has received a letter of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship program.  Congratulations Kirsten for a job well done!!

National Merit Scholarship Program
The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955.  High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) -a test which serves as an initial screen of approximately 1.5 million entrants each year-and by meeting published program entry/participation requirements.

Steps in the 2013 Competition

About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2013 National Merit

Scholarship Program by taking the 2011 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship QualifyingTest (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants.  

Program Recognition
Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/NMSQT®   Selection Index scores (critical reading + mathematics + writing skills scores) qualify for recognition in the National Merit^® Scholarship Program.  In April following the fall test administration, high-scoring participants from every state are invited to name two colleges or universities to which they would like to be referred by NMSC.  In September, these high scorers are notified through their schools that they have qualified as either a Commended Student or Semifinalist.

Commended Students  In late September, about 34,000 of the approximately 50,000 high scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT® receive Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.  Commended Students are named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index score that may vary from year to year.

NMSC Mission Statement
The mission of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is to recognize and honor the academically talented students of the United States. NMSC accomplishes its mission by conducting nationwide academic scholarship programs. The enduring goals of NMSC's scholarship programs are:

• to promote a wider and deeper respect for learning in general and for exceptionally talented individuals in particular
• to shine a spotlight on brilliant students and encourage the pursuit of academic excellence at all levels of education
• to stimulate increased support from organizations that wish to sponsor scholarships for outstanding scholastic talent

Student Schedules for the 2012-13 school year for all 10th, 11th and 12th Grade students may be picked up Monday 8/20/12 and Tuesday 8/21/12 in the High School main office between the hours of 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM.

Orientation for incoming 9th Grade students and their parents will be held on Monday 8/20/12 at 7:00 PM in the CHS cafeteria.  Schedules for 9th Graders will be distributed at this time.

Students from Clearfield High School's Gr. 10 World Cultures class (Mr. Pat Pallo, instructor) recently had a chance to experience and see downtown Clearfield in a new way.  The students visited the Clearfield Borough building, the Dimeling Senior Residence building, and Clearfield County administrative offices.  During their visit they experienced how local and county government agencies operate and also had a chance to explore the former Dimeling Hotel from the "inside out".  Community members shared personal stories about their experiences in Clearfield as well as brief history lessons of downtown.  The group also had a chance to hear unique perspectives from a number of local citizens who have committed to our community in a variety of ways. 

Local government and business leaders who offered their time and effort to the successful day included:  Leslie Stott - Clearfield Borough Manager; Larry Mack - Clearfield Borough Code Enforcement Officer; Vince McGinnis- Clearfield Borough Chief of Police; Kellie Truman - Clearfield Revitalization Corporation; Holly Bloom - Clearfield Chamber of Commerce; Chris Renaud- CRC, Chamber and Boro Intern; Dave Glass  - Clearfield School Board President and Ogden Legacy Insurance; Jim Schell - Clearfield Borough Mayor; Tony Scotto - Clearfield County Controller and Scotto's Pizza; Sweet Art Bakery; Cara Artiola - Dimeling Senior Residence Building, Manager; and John Sobel, Joan Robinson-McMillen, Mark McCracken - Clearfield County Commissioners.

This endeavor was intended to showcase our town of Clearfield so that students, along with local leaders can connect, create and invest in the betterment of our community.  It is hoped that this experience will continue to grow so that more students will be able to reconnect with our past, learn and live in the present, and chart a positive path for our future.
(Article and photos courtesy Brian Lytle/P. Pallo)

The Clearfield Area High School juniors and seniors and their dates will experience "Happily Ever After" in a fairytale-themed gymnasium this Saturday, May 12th from 7:00-11:00 PM at the high school.

Parking for prom attendees is in the student parking lot.  ALL others should park in the faculty parking lot BEHIND the school!  Parents, friends, relatives may view the gym between 5:00-5:45 PM.  At 5:45 PM, all persons will be asked to leave the gym/front commons area.

The promenade will begin promptly at 6:15 PM, and will be held outside, weather permitting.  Parents/community members must still park in the back parking lot behind the school.  They may stand near the oval/front doors of the school to view the prom attendees.  If the promenade is held inside, it will be in the main auditorium.  All attendees coming for the promenade MUST enter through the back commons area (cafeteria) doors and will exit through these doors after the promenade has concluded.  NO ONE will be permitted in the front commons or gymnasium after 5:45 PM.

The advisors for the junior class are Ms. Leann Schaeffer and Mrs. Tiffany Warlow.

The Susquehanna River Arts Council is currently sponsoring the 2nd Annual Juried Student Art Show at the Shaw Public Library. The show will be hung through May 5, and conclude with a ceremony honoring the award winners.  Over $300.00 in cash prizes were awarded to the winning artists!  These young artists have represented our school well and we are very proud of them!

The following students have received awards and/or prizes for their work:
First Place- Kristen Henderlong;  Second Place-Emily Dearing;  Third Place-Amanda Lloyd;  Fourth Place-Joshua Maney

Juror's Awards:   Dayna Hedges, Carly Weed, Tyler Rees, Kristen Henderlong, Kara Irwin, Miranda Jones, John Seyler, Juliana Mellgard, Briana (B.J.) Bowman and Katie Stine

Honorable Mentions:   Travis Swoope, Maggie Naddeo, Kaitlyn Learish, Amanda Lloys, Abby Swales, Kayla Brooks and Kenny Conway

The public is invited to stop in at the Shaw Library now through May 5 to view some superb examples of student artwork by CASD students.  Congratulations all!

Clearfield Mayor James Schell issued a proclamation honoring the Clearfield High School cheerleaders for advancing to the national finals held at ESPN's Wide World of Sports in Walt Disney World in Orlando FL where they finished 12th in the nation in the medium varsity division. "I, James P. Schell, Mayor of the Borough of Clearfield, do hereby recognize the stellar accomplishments of the Clearfield High School Varsity Competition Cheerleading Team and encourage the citizens of our community to congratulate the team on their outstanding season and overall record," Schell said in the proclamation.
From left (sitting) Coach Connie Hepfer, Deziray Inguagiato, Nikki Erskine and Coach Jenny Peacock. Middle row, Taylor Stott, Kaylee Peacock, Carly Weed, Kelcie Schultz, Cheree McGonigal, Ashley Collins, Rebekah Stiner and Taylor Reed.  Back row, Tim Janocko, vice-principal of CHS, Schell and Robert Gearhart, athletic director.  (Article courtesy The Progress; photo by Jeff Corcino)
Congratulations on an Outstanding Season - 12th In The Nation!

  Clearfield High School offers TWO (2)
Free FINANCIAL AID NIGHTS for Students and Parents

Attendees to learn important student aid information

Clearfield High School will host TWO (2) free FINANCIAL AID NIGHTS during February, the first on THURSDAY 2/9/2012 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM, and the second on THURSDAY 2/16/2012 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM.    Both will be held in the computer lab adjacent to the HS library.  CHS Seniors and Juniors and their parents are encouraged to attend one of these informative sessions to get a better understanding of the student aid process, and how best to begin planning to fund their higher education.  A student aid expert from PHEAA's Regional Office will be available to provide information and answer questions.
Parents and students will learn what they need to do to apply for all types of financial aid, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is required to qualify for most student aid programs such as the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, institutional awards and low-cost federal student and parent loans.   Participants will also be briefed on Pennsylvania-specific aid programs as well as the importance of searching out free money awards like scholarships to help pay for education costs.

Families with questions about the free Financial Aid Nights should contact Mrs. Susan Spaid, Senior Class counselor, at the HS Guidance Office, (814) 765-2401, Ext. 2249 or sspaid@clearfield.org .

Article courtesy GantDaily

HARRISBURG - Pennsylvania's new law aimed at increasing safety for young drivers takes effect at 12:01 AM on Dec. 24, 2011.  The new law increases behind-the-wheel training requirements, places a limit on the number of passengers a young driver can transport and makes not wearing a seatbelt a primary offense for young drivers.  The new law adds 15 hours of supervised, behind-the-wheel training for driver's license permit holders younger than 18, bringing the total to 65 hours.  Ten of the additional hours must include driving at night and five hours must occur during poor weather conditions.  Current permit-holders younger than 18 who have not yet passed the driving skills test before Dec. 24th will have to meet the requirements of the new law.  Also, as part of the law, drivers younger than 18 will not be permitted to transport more than one passenger who is under 18 and is not an immediate family member unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.  After six months, the junior driver may transport up to three passengers younger than 18 who are not immediate family members without a parent or legal guardian present, but only if that driver has not been convicted of a driving violation or has not been partially or fully responsible for a reportable crash.  The law also requires that junior drivers and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a seat belt, and children under the age of eight must be fastened in a child restraint system.  The seat belt provisions of the new law are primary offenses, meaning a driver can be stopped and cited solely for that violation.

More information on the changes for teen drivers can be found at http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/ by clicking on the "New Teen Driver Law 2011″ button.  For more information on young driver safety, visit PennDOT's highway safety website, www.DriveSafePA.org and select the "Young Driver" link under the Traffic Safety Information Center.

The Clearfield Area High School has been selected as a 2011 ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Grant Award winner.  The $500 grant will be used to enhance tutoring efforts to assist with the implementation of the Chicago Math program at our high school.  The Chicago Math program is being used to help raise student proficiency levels in math.  This award was made possible by Lehigh Gas Corporation and Uni-Mart located at 1473 Port Matilda Highway, Philipsburg, PA.

Members of the Clearfield Area High School Physics Honors class recently posed for a group photo during a field trip to Penn State on a sunny fall day.
(Photo courtesy Mrs. Sue Spaid)

The CHS Adv. Chemistry class recently made rock candy as they explored the process of crystallization.  When molecules are in one area, they have a high chance of bumping into one  another, thus forming crystals.  This happens when a solution, which is made up of a liquid and the compound that will be crystallized, is saturated.  In rock candy, the liquid is water and the compound is sugar.  A solution is saturated when the liquid holds as much of the compound dissolved in it as possible.  (Photo courtesy Ms. Sarah Fye) 

Article/photo courtesy GantDaily; Dave Glass, reporter
DUBOIS - The Clearfield Bison football team didn't sustain many drives, but they made several big plays on offense and defense to claim the District IX AAA Football title Saturday, 28-7.  The game started ominously for Clearfield as Beau Swales fumbled on the first play from scrimmage, setting St. Mary's up on Clearfield's 33-yard line. However, the Bison defense came up huge, not allowing a single yard in three plays, and the Dutchmen elected to punt on 4th and 10.  "That early stop was key for our team", said Clearfield head coach Tim Janocko.  After a 14-yard punt, Swales quickly atoned for the turnover, breaking free for a 79-yard touchdown run that gave the Bisons an early 7-0 lead - a lead they would never relinquish.  The teams traded punts the next three possessions before Clearfield's offense struck quickly again, with a 2-play, 66 yard drive that featured a 27-yard run by Curtis Frye, and then a 39-yard catch-and-run touchdown from Frye to Christian Lezzer that gave Clearfield a 14-0 lead.  The Bison defense then made some big plays of their own, with Trey Jordan intercepting St. Marys QB David All on each of the next two Dutch possessions. 

"Trey Jordan had a huge day for us, with those first-half interceptions", said Janocko. The second interception set up Clearfield's final scoring drive of the first half - and their only sustained scoring drive of the game - as the Bisons marched 59 yards in six plays, capped by a Swales 9-yard TD run.  St. Mary's took over at their 11 after that score and mounted their only threat of the first half, with the key play a 38-yard run by Brian Merritt that set the Dutch up at the Bison 37. Again, however, the Clearfield defense stiffened, as Christian Lezzer recorded sacks on first and third down to force another St. Mary's punt. Swales carried twice for 46 yards on the ensuing drive, then the Bison offense stalled out and the halftime score was 21-0. 

The Dutchmen came out with a bang after halftime, as on the second play of their opening drive Justin Quiggle broke loose for a 68-yard touchdown run to cut Clearfield's lead to 21-7. Both defenses settled in for the next eight minutes of the third quarter, with each team punting twice after gaining almost no yardage.  Clearfield's final scoring drive came on their last possession of the third quarter, as a short punt set them up on St. Mary's 39 yard line. Facing a 4th and 7 from the St. Marys 18-yard line, Clearfield called a trick play to put the game away -  Christian Lezzer took a handoff, faked a sweep right then pulled up and connected with a wide-open Dylan Graham for the final touchdown of the day.  "We were able to make some big plays off of variations of what we normally do, and that Lezzer pass was an example…we were able to get some big breaks today," said Janocko. 

While there was no scoring in the fourth quarter, there were still several big plays and Clearfield's longest offensive drive of the day - Clearfield forced three sacks on St. Mary's final two possessions, including two by senior Eric White and one by Corey Knepp. On offense, the Bisons put together an 11-play, 59-yard drive that ran 5:35 off the clock, and ended any hope of a Dutch comeback.  "Eric White had a huge game for us today, I'm so happy for him. He stepped in today with injuries to some other guys and really stepped up," said Janocko. "Jordan Lancaster did a good job on the offensive line, Curtis Frye had a big afternoon…overall we played well on both sides of the ball. St. Mary's played well, getting their quarterback healthy really gave them a different look and we knew it would be tough. I'm very proud of our team." 

With the win, Coach Janocko ties Paul Simcoe's District IX record for victories, with 204.  Janocko and the Bisons will get a chance to break that record next Saturday (11/19/11) in a rematch of last season's inter-district battle against Johnstown.  "Johnstown is tough again this year, they have almost everyone back - we're looking forward to the challenge," said Janocko.   Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM at Mansion Park in Altoona. 

Lady Bison SOCCER - District 9 Class AA Champs!
Congratulations to the Lady Bison Soccer team for winning the District 9 Class AA Championship game 11/2/11 by defeating the Bradford Lady Owls 5-0 at Varischetti Field in Brockway.

For more information about the 2nd Annual Lady Bison Volleyball DIG FOR THE CURE Event to be held THURSDAY 10/6/2011, including a T-Shirt Order Form and a Pledge Form, please CLICK HERE

 SPORTS PHYSICALS:   A make-up day for Bison SPORTS PHYSICALS is now scheduled for THURSDAY 8/11/11.  All athletes still needing physicals should report to the Clearfield HS Health Suite at 12:30 PM .  To sign up, please call Mrs. Cindy Hinchliffe, school nurse, at 765-2401, Extension 4 (or 2116).  You may also submit your name via email to chinchliffe@clearfield.org   In your message please include your name and phone number.

 PLEASE NOTE:   This will be the final date offered for Bison sports physicals for the 2011-2012 school year .  If you are a MS or HS student planning to participate in any school sport for this year, and still need a physical, you MUST sign up for the 8/11/11 date.  Bison athletic teams include boys Football (Gr 7-11), Baseball, Basketball, Wrestling; girls Basketball, Cheerleading, Softball, Volleyball; and boys/girls Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field.

 COST:   Cost for a sports physical is $15.00.  Athletes should also have the Section 3: Health History form filled out prior to their physical.  If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Hinchliffe.

DOWNLOAD the Section 3: Health History form below
SPORTS PHYSICAL FORMS

A make-up day for Bison SPORTS PHYSICALS is tentatively scheduled for THURSDAY 8/11/11 at 1:00 PM in the Clearfield High School Health Suite.  In order for this to happen, a minimum of 15 students must sign up no later than Monday 8/1/11 by 3:00 PM .  To sign up, please call Cindy Hinchliffe, school nurse, at 765-2401, Extension 4 (or 2116).  You may also submit your name via email to chinchliffe@clearfield.org   In your message please include your name and phone number.  If 15 or more students sign up, a notification will be made via the school website.

 COST:   Cost for a sports physical is $15.00.  Athletes should also have the Section 3: Health History form filled out prior to their physical.  If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Hinchliffe.

DOWNLOAD the Section 3: Health History form below
SPORTS PHYSICAL FORMS

The Bison 5K Walk/Run held Saturday 6/4/11 at the Bison Sports Complex was a huge success with more than 140 people registering for the event.  Congratulations to the Bison cheerleading squad, who won the Community Participation Award (with 21 people registered); Clearfield Elementary School was also well represented with 16 people registered from their building!  A total of over $2000 was raised to benefit Brady's Smile.

A HUGE thank you to all who helped organize and participate in this event in any way!  (Photos courtesy K. Ward)

The annual SPRING PLANT SALE by the Clearfield Area High School AgEd Program/FFA students will begin MONDAY, MAY 16th!  Many types of annual flowering plants, vegetables and herbs are available.
Questions? Call 765-2401, Ext. 2126.

TO DOWNLOAD THE LIST OF AVAILABLE PLANTS and PRICES, PLEASE CLICK HERE

Article courtesy GantDaily
This past Saturday a dozen volunteers from the Clearfield High School FFA club, Boy Scout troop # 2 and other community volunteers planted 26 crabapple trees in Clearfield's Upper Witmer Park.  These were obtained from the PA Community Forest grant awarded to the Clearfield Borough in March 2011.  Karen Miller, a community volunteer who coordinated the event said this grant was to continue the memorials start by the Hobby Garden Club in 1974, when the first crabapple trees were planted.  Throughout the east and west side of the Susquehanna Riverbank, these crabapples create a spectacular show the first weeks of May every year.  Many of the bare spots are now replaced with new, young crabapple trees, variety called Purple Prince.  Thanks to these energetic volunteers, the memorials for our past citizens live on.  (Photo: Jim Gillingham - Flowering crabapple trees in bloom, view from Market Street Bridge.)

The 1st Annual Clearfield Area High School Art Show , sponsored by the Susquehanna River Arts Council (S.R.A.C.), will run from April 2 to May 7, 2011 at the Joseph & Elizabeth Shaw Public Library in downtown Clearfield.  Almost $400 in cash prizes will be awarded to the winning artists during the reception and close of the show on Saturday, May 7th from 1:00 - 2:00 PM.  The artists, their families and public are all welcome to attend the reception.

The public is encouraged to stop in at the Shaw Library before closing of the show on May 7th and check out the amazing work that these students have created!

During the 2010-11 scholastic sports season the National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association of America has recognized both swimming teams at Clearfield Area High School (girls and boys) with the Bronze Scholar Team Award.  The girls achieved a 3.477 overall team grade-point average, and the boys achieved a 3.21 overall grade-point average.  During this evaluation every member of the team is counted.  Congratulations to ALL of you for putting forth such superb effort, both academically and athletically!
Go Bisons!
(Photo courtesy Happy Events)

The CAHS Guidance Department will sponsor its annual Student Career Fair on Wednesday, April 20th.  For more information please contact the CAHS Guidance Department.