Engineering, health science students present capstone projects
What’s become a tradition in our district, in January, our engineering and health sciences students welcomed their mentors to their schools where they presented their journey through their capstone course. Students delivered brief reports to the attendees of the fair and showcases who had the opportunity to ask questions and give feedback.
Thank you to all the community members who attended the health sciences showcases and engineering fair! We are continually amazed by the support our students receive from the community — it’s our partnerships and community support that sets us apart from other districts.
Profile of a Graduate
We are committed to the success of our graduates - and a hallmark of this commitment is the completed Profile of a Graduate.
The Profile of a Graduate ensures all students who learn in Appoquinimink School District have the knowledge, skills, and mindsets needed for the future. The Profile of a Graduate was created in collaboration with our students, staff, families, local community, and other stakeholders. This cumulative effort helped create the final profile.
We are committed to ensuring all Appo families have a thorough understanding of this important work. That work will continue over the coming weeks and months - in this newsletter, in our school communications, and throughout our communication channels such as our website and social media.
The Profile of a Graduate has six focus areas:
- Academically Ready
- Life Ready
- Future-Focused
- Workplace Ready
- Civic-Minded
- Financially Savvy
This month, we’re focusing on Life Ready.
The core tenants of students who are Academically Ready include:
Within each of these areas – there’s additional detail about what this means for each student.
We encourage all families to learn more here: https://www.appoccr.com/life-ready/
Next month, we’ll continue our series and share more about what it means for students to be future-focused.
All State Band and Orchestra Results
Dozens of Appoquinimink School District students earn All State Band and Orchestra recognition!
Join us in congratulating the students listed below!
These students will participate in a three-day festival, with concerts occurring on February 2, 2025, at Cape Henlopen High School (All State Jazz Band), February 22, 2025, at Everett Meredith Middle School (All State Orchestra), and March 22, 2025, at Lake Forest High School (All State Junior and Senior Bands).
Tickets for All State Music concerts must be purchased in advance, and are available on the Delaware Music Educators Association website: www.delawaremea.org
All State Jazz Band
Odessa High School:
- Gabriel Spinazzola
- Enoch Timmons
- Matai Rouse
All State Orchestra
Alfred G. Waters Middle School:
- Jason Chung
- Adriana Corado
- Yicheng Jin
- Chloe McCleary
- Opal Verm
Cantwell’s Bridge Middle School:
- Kingsley Xie
Appoquinimink High School:
- Violet Sullivan
Middletown High School:
- Edison Liu
- Daniel Longfellow
- Viola McKenna
Odessa High School:
- Nathan Ehlman
- Minh Vu
- Lin Xie
All State Junior Band
Cantwell’s Bridge Middle School:
- Emmanuel Arhin
- Ben Beird
- Calvin Mincey
- Emmanuel Oppong-adjei
Louis L. Redding Middle School:
- Matthew Eldredge
- Mikenzie Williams
Appoquinimink High School:
- Omisha Royal
Middletown High School:
- Jonah Carrington
- Breanna Reb
Odessa High School:
- Parker Endlein
- Analia Lemus
- Matai Rouse
- Brayden Stafford
All State Senior Band
Appoquinimink High School:
- Ethan Rich
Odessa High School:
- Nathan Ehlman
- Enoch Timmons
January Board Recognitions
Middletown High School's football team was recognized at the January 14 Board of Education meeting for bringing home the 3A State Championship title.
At the January 14 meeting, the Board recognized students from Alfred G. Waters Middle School who were accepted into the Delaware All State Choir.
At the January 14 meeting, the Board recognized students from Cantwell's Bridge Middle School who were accepted into the Delaware All State Choir.
At the January 14 meeting, the Board recognized students from Appoquinimink High School who were accepted into the Delaware All State Choir.
At the January 14 meeting, the Board recognized students from Middletown High School who were accepted into the Delaware All State Choir.
At the January 14 meeting, the Board recognized students from Odessa High School who were accepted into the Delaware All State Choir.
Spring musical season is here!
We've entered the second half of the school year, which means our schools are gearing up for spring musical season! More information is soon to come! In the meantime, see the images below for titles, dates, and showtimes for our school's musicals. Ticket information will be posted closer to each show's opening night — be sure to check each school's website for tickets.
AHS's Prishu Gaire named to 2025 Mental Health Youth Advisory Council
Recognizing the urgent mental health crisis impacting young people, Creative Visions has formed its 2025 Mental Health Youth Advisory Council — Prishu Gaire, a sophomore at Appoquinimink High School, has been selected as a council member.
Prishu will lead mental health awareness engagement activities and a collaborative mental health project in the Middletown community.
Prishu joins a diverse group of young leaders who are playing a central role in guiding the #CreateConnectCare campaign, an initiative designed to leverage the power of creative expression to promote mental health awareness and support among youth.
The council will be crucial in shaping the campaign's direction, ensuring its relevance and resonance with their peers. By leveraging diverse creative mediums such as art, music, writing, and filmmaking, the #CreateConnectCare campaign aims to:
- Raise awareness of mental health challenges
- Reduce stigma surrounding mental health
- Build connections and foster a sense of community
- Promote self-care and encourage support for others
The Youth Advisory Council members include Hannah Langford (CA), Aryanna Lee (CA), Bryce Hunter (CO), Prishu Gaire (DE), Joyce Dushime (GA), Lillian Huang (IL), Violet Amberson (KS), Thyra Foronda (MI), Linda Barbara Stokes (MN), Vedhsai A Thiriveedi (NH), Ryan Crispino (NY), Ardisha Thawrani (OH), Harrison Cooper Green (OK), River Schoenfeldt (SC), Yaphet Yoseph (TX), Prakhya Koya (VA), and Anishmaadhav Jayapaul Premnaath (WI).
Celebrating the Lunar New Year!
Combining culture and curriculum, Spring Meadow Early Childhood Center's Chinese Immersion students celebrated the Lunar New Year on January 29 with a special lesson all about the Year of the Snake! The students' families were also invited to visit their classrooms and join the fun!
Student Information System - Next School Year
The following communication was shared with all ASD families on January 13, 2025, to share initial information about the new student information system that will be launching in the 2025-2026 school year.
Dear ASD Families,
I’m writing this communication to share that looking ahead to the 2025-2026 school year, we will be utilizing a new student information system. Student information systems are programs used to store and manage all student-related data including attendance, schedules, grades, and other important information.
The Delaware Department of Education recently completed a review process to select a new student information system for all districts throughout our state. Following that process, Infinite Campus was selected as the new student information system. Beginning in school year 2025-2026, our district will be moving from eSchool/Home Access Center to Infinite Campus.
The transition to Infinite Campus is happening statewide in two phases. The first phase began this school year for several districts. We are part of the second and final phase that will take place beginning next school year.
Please know that our teams are diligently preparing for this transition to ensure it is as smooth as possible for our families and staff members. This is just our initial communication to share that this will be happening.
There will be many questions to be answered in the weeks and months ahead, including questions surrounding final report cards for this year school, transcripts, schedules for next year, and much more. Please know that as soon as we have information to share, we’ll be sending it to our families and our staff members.
As our teams learn the new system, it does appear that Infinite Campus will have new features for our families to utilize that we anticipate will be beneficial.
I want to thank our families in advance for your partnership during the transition. Stay tuned for forthcoming communications from the district and your building as we get closer to launching the new student information system.
Respectfully,
Matt Burrows, Superintendent
Math course offerings for middle schoolers
The following communication was shared with all fifth, sixth, and seventh grade families on January 30, 2025.
Dear Appoquinimink 5th, 6th, and 7th Grade Families,
We are excited to announce new math course offerings for our middle school students beginning next school year (2025-2026). To provide a more personalized approach to learning, students will now have a choice between two math courses based on their readiness, goals, and interest level. Our aim is to support each student’s math journey and help them thrive academically.
Math Course Offerings
Grade-Level Math Course
This course is aligned with the student’s current grade-level standards and will provide a comprehensive understanding of key concepts to ensure a solid math foundation.
Honors Math Course
This course covers a blend of standards across two grade levels. For example, an incoming 6th grader who chooses the honors 6th-grade course will engage with both 6th- and 7th-grade standards. This progression prepares students for advanced pathways in middle school, including the opportunity to take Algebra 1 in 8th grade for high school credit.
Each year, families will have the flexibility to choose the course that best fits their child’s needs. For example:
- In 7th grade, students can select 7th Grade Math or 7th Grade Honors Math, which includes 7th - and 8th - grade standards.
- In 8th grade, students can select 8th Grade Math or Algebra 1, which offers high school credit.
This annual course selection allows students to adjust their learning pathway based on their goals and readiness.
Next Steps
To make your child’s math course selection for next year, please complete the Google form provided by your student’s school counselor in the coming weeks. The form will open on March 3 and close on March 10. We kindly request that you complete this form by the deadline to help us plan appropriately for staffing and resources.
If you would like to discuss your child’s placement further, please contact their math teacher or school counselor. We are here to ensure your student receives the support they need to excel.
Thank you for your partnership as we strive to offer a math program that meets the needs of all our students. We look forward to working with you to make the best decision for your child’s success.
Sincerely,
Nick Hoover, Director of Secondary Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
The Appoquinimink School District’s Calendar Committee presented its proposal for the 2025-26 Academic Calendar at this month’s Board of Education Meeting. A public comment period is now underway. It will conclude on February 28, 2025.
Share Your Comments:
Approval Process:
The Calendar Committee will report back to the School Board at the next two regularly scheduled Board Meetings (February 11, March 11), when they will share the comments received during this period, and discuss any changes or revisions based on the input received.
As a reminder, all ASD School Board meetings are streamed live on the ASD YouTube channel and available for viewing at any time.
After final discussion at the Board of Education Meeting on March 11, 2025, the School Board will vote to finalize the 2025-26 calendar.
The final document will be posted to our district website and all school websites. We’ll also share information on our district social media channels.
Appoquinimink Job Fair is February 8, 2025
You’re invited to our Appoquinimink School District Job Fair! More information is to come, but for now, save the date for Saturday, February 8, 2025. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Crystal Run Elementary School, 1470 Aviator Way, Middletown.
Click here to see current openings!
We are interviewing and hiring for an array of positions:
- Teachers
- Paraprofessionals
- Transportation drivers and aides
- School nutrition workers
- Immersion and world languages
- Multilingual learners
- Special education
- Career and technical education (CTE)
- And much, much more!
We hope to see you there!
Odessa High School performs at governor’s inauguration
Odessa High School's band was a featured performer at the inauguration ceremony for Gov. Matt Meyer and Lt. Gov. Kyle Evans Gay. The ceremony was held on January 21 at Delaware State University in Dover. Congratulations to our students for doing a phenomenal job!
Gianna White earns $2K scholarship from Mountaire Farms
Please join us in congratulating Gianna White, a senior at Appoquinimink High School, on receiving a $2,000 Farm to Table Scholarship from Mountaire Farms! In addition to the $2,000 scholarship, Gianna also has a 20% chance she’ll be selected to receive an additional $5,000. From September through June, Mountaire Farms has selected one high school senior to receive the $2,000 scholarship. Later in the year, all the winners will gather at a banquet where two students will receive an additional $5,000. In celebration of being named a scholarship winner, Gianna was interviewed for a segment that will air on WBOC and FOX21. She was nominated for the scholarship by her culinary arts teacher Andrew Feeley. After graduation, Gianna plans to continue studying culinary arts — her specialty is baking — and would like to open a café one day!
Save the date for Transition to Adult Life Fair
The school districts in New Castle County are hosting a combined Transition to Adult Life Fair, which is aimed at providing guidance for families with students who receive special education services. This fair is a one-stop shop for parents to get more information. It will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27, at the Delaware Technical Community College, Stanton Campus.
The Appoquinimink, Brandywine, Christina, Colonial, New Castle County Vo Tech, and Red Clay Consolidated School Districts sponsor the fair.
AP & Dual Enrollment Night
We hosted our annual AP & Dual Enrollment Night on January 23. The purpose of this event is to help families better understand the opportunities offered by our district and how to build a strong transcript.
If you have follow-up questions regarding scheduling, please connect with your child’s counselor.
Cedar Lane Elementary’s cheerleaders bring spirit to Walmart’s reopening
Cedar Lane Elementary School's cheerleaders did a phenomenal job bringing enthusiasm and cheer to the Middletown Walmart’s grand re-opening celebration on January 10! Please join us in celebrating these students for a job well done!
Celebrating National Law Enforcement Day
Please join us in thanking all Appoquinimink School District constables and school resources officers for all they do! In honor of National Law Enforcement Day (January 9), Superintendent Matt Burrows visited Bunker Hill Elementary School to thank Constable Lou DiLeonardo for the work he and all of our safety and security team members do to keep our schools, students, and staff safe. All of our schools have a dedicated constable or school resource officer thanks to the community's ongoing support. Pictured are Dr. Burrows, DiLeonardo, and Lead Constable Jeff Hale.
2025-2026 Teacher of the Year Nominations Are Open!
Do you know an Appoquinimink School District teacher who is dedicated, inspiring, and empowering students? If so, please take a moment to nominate this individual for the 2025 - 2026 Teacher of the Year award.
We welcome and encourage nominations from students, parents/guardians, staff and community members. Nominations are due by February 10, 2025.
OVERVIEW
The Delaware State Teacher of the Year Program is a vocal community of award-winning educators who represent exemplary teaching and serve as spokespersons and ambassadors for the profession.
The program recognizes excellence in education and expresses appreciation for the many outstanding teachers in Delaware who serve as an inspiration to teachers, students, and community members, while providing a representative to serve as the profession’s advocate throughout the year.
Behavioral Health Professional of the Year - 2026
Do you know a school counselor, school social worker, licensed clinical social worker, school psychologist, or school nurse who is dedicated, inspiring, and making a difference? If so, please take a moment to nominate them for the Behavioral Health Professional of the Year (BHPOY)!
In 2021, the Delaware State Behavioral Health Professional of the Year Program was established under House Bill 35 of the 151st General Assembly. This program recognizes exceptional behavioral health professionals who positively impact individuals’ mental health. Each district selects its BHPOY, who then represents the district in the statewide program.
The nomination window is officially open and will close on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 11:55 p.m.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Candidates must have at least three (3) years of experience as a behavioral health professional (experience can include different districts, schools, or positions).
- Candidates must be district employees (not contracted employees) and hold a license through the Delaware Professional Board of Regulation and/or the Delaware Department of Education.
- Candidates must hold a certification or licensure credential through the Department of Education and/or the Professional Regulation Board.
- Candidates must continue to serve in a behavioral health position for the 2025-2026 award year.
- Candidates must be exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled.
- Candidates must promote a positive, supportive, and professional image of behavioral health professionals within their workplace and community.
This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the vital role behavioral health professionals play in our schools. If someone comes to mind, please take a moment to submit a nomination.
Thank you for helping us honor and recognize these incredible professionals!
Appo Families Connect — Join us for a series of workshops!
You're invited to attend our Appo Families Connect workshops where we will be discussing important topics that impact our students and families. These events are open to all families.
February 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Silver Lake Elementary School, 200 E Cochran St, Middletown, DE 19709
Mental Health: We invite you to attend our workshop on mental health, where we’ll discuss strategies to support your child's emotional well-being and resilience.
March 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. location to be determined
Spring & Summer Strong: Spring and summer breaks are great opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Let’s explore ways also to keep the brain engaged and maintain momentum for academic growth.
State of the District – March 18
Following our district referendum that took place in April 2024, we have committed to connecting with our community to share regular updates about ongoing initiatives, our financial outlook, and upcoming projects.
We hope you’ll join us on Tuesday, March 18, at Alfred G. Waters Middle School beginning at 6:30 p.m. for our second State of the District meeting.
As part of this meeting we will discuss the continued impact of the community’s support, our district’s strategic plan, reassessment, and our newly completed “Profile of a Graduate.”
We will also allow time for questions and answers.
We hope to see you there!
Supporting Children With Disabilities Through Life's Changes - Workshop on February 13
Upcoming events & meeting reminders:
February is National Career and Technical Education Month
3-7 February - National School Counseling Week
11 February - School Board meeting, 7:00 PM at the Marion E. Proffitt Training Center, 118 S. Sixth St, Odessa. Tune in virtually here.
17 February - Schools/offices closed - State/Federal holiday
21-22 February - OHS Theatre's Legally Blonde - 7 PM at OHS
26 February - PreK-12 evening conferences
27 February - No school PreK-8 (day and evening conferences) & High School - parent/teacher evening conferences
28 February - No school PreK-12 (PreK-8 day conferences) & High School PL
28 February-1 March - OHS's Legally Blonde - 7 PM at OHS
