A Reminder for Student Drivers: Drive Safely!

As students come onto campus in the morning and head off campus at the end of their school day, we want to remind everyone to drive safely and be mindful of pedestrians. A community member recently shared concerns about student drivers speeding through the roundabout at 64th and Dove Valley, some not noticing pedestrians waiting to cross. They also mentioned that several students didn't notice them in the crosswalk because they were on their cell phones. 

Many people—families with young children, cyclists, and older adults—use these crosswalks daily, and we all play a part in keeping our community safe. Parents, we appreciate your help in reminding students about safe driving habits, including following speed limits, staying off phones, and watching for pedestrians.

2025-2026 CSHS Student Parking

CSHS Families,

As you may have heard through the PTO parking spot auction letter, we are implementing a revised parking procedure for the 2025-2026 school year. We apologize for any confusion caused by the communication not coming directly from us first. Instead of assigned parking spots, students will now be designated to a specific parking lot. If you had a student who graduated before 2022, you might remember this was the system previously in place. There are three available lots: Main, West, and 56th St.

Parking Registration Dates:

• Seniors (Class of 2026): April 14, 2025
   
• Juniors (Class of 2027): May 5, 2025
   

Eligible students will receive an email through their school account with instructions. To complete the registration process, students must log in to their school email, fill out the online form, and upload the following documents:

• Completed parking application
   
• Valid driver’s license
   
• Proof of insurance
   
• Vehicle registration
   

Once the application is approved, the parking fee will be added to the student’s account. The fee must be paid either online or at the bookstore before the student can receive their parking placard.

Why the Change?
We understand there are questions about the reasons behind this adjustment. The primary factors influencing this decision are:

1. Budget Constraints: Currently, parking space numbers are not clearly visible, and the school does not have the funds to resurface the parking lots or repaint individual spot numbers.
    
2. Tardiness Issues: This year, tardiness reached an all-time high, which created disruptions to classroom instruction and the overall school environment. We believe that unassigned spaces will encourage students to arrive earlier to secure their preferred spot, helping to reduce tardiness and improve punctuality.
    
3. Incorrect Parking Assignments: When a student parks in the wrong spot, it often creates a chain reaction, causing confusion and delays for multiple students in the morning. This leads to frustration amongst students, parents, and contributes to tardiness as we work to resolve parking issues.
    

We recognize some concerns have been raised about potential congestion as students search for available spots. However, we believe this situation will be similar to the high-traffic patterns we experience in the afternoon when students are leaving campus.

PTO Fundraising Opportunity
For the 3rd year in a row, PTO is continuing their fundraising efforts and have been provided with 21 spots in the front row by the library entry. These spots are auctioned by the PTO, and the winners receive a reserved spot. This opportunity helps the PTO continue supporting our staff and classrooms every year. The good news is that you do not have to participate in the auction to secure a spot; we have plenty of parking available to our students. In fact, we typically have enough spots for sophomores once they receive their licenses.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we implement this updated parking procedure, which we believe will improve efficiency and minimize disruptions for both students and staff.

Sincerely,
CSHS Administration

Falcons Athletics 

• Spring sports are in full swing!  Check out all schedules here and come watch a game!  You can import schedules directly to your phone by clicking the ESS button on the top right of the calendar. 

Senior Corner - Class of 2025

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• April 11th - ALL outstanding debts must be paid to the bookstore (Students will NOT be able to pick up their cap & gown until al debt are paid.)
• April 11th - Jostens will be on campus to hand out cap & gowns from 11:30-12:30 in the Lecture Hall.
• April 12th - Prom at On Jackson from 7-9 PM.
• April 18th - April Break (NO School)
• April 21st - Deadline to submit scholarship awards for the Senior Awards Assembly.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Senior Awards Day - (Date has been changed to) May 5th, 2025

In preparation for this exciting event to honor our graduating seniors, we kindly ask parents and guardians to:

• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department via the online scholarship student input form. The deadline to submit all scholarships is April 21, 2025. 

Senior Survey

Please have your students complete the survey by April 30th, as it will help us better understand their plans after graduating from CSHS. The information gathered will be used during the senior awards ceremony on May 5th to recognize and celebrate their future paths.

Senior Survey 

Senior Scholarship

It is imperative that all awards and scholarships be submitted using the link provided to ensure students are properly recognized at the Senior Awards on May 5th. Submitting this information allows us to celebrate each student's achievements accurately and meaningfully. Thank you for your support in helping us honor the Class of 2025!

Scholarship Form

Student Services and Testing: ACT/ASPIRE

We will have school-wide testing on Tuesday, April 8th for all 9th and 11th grade students. All 10th and 12th graders will participate in asynchronous learning on this day. 

A few testing reminders for our Freshman and Juniors:

Students MUST:

• Be on time - in assigned room by 7:15 AM
  • Room assignments -  students can come to the front office or ask their English or math teachers for their room number.
  • Have their school ID or State Issued Driver License/Permit—students may not use their StudentVue as an ID for State Testing (they also will not have access to phones to purchase lunch - must have ID) - Replacement school IDs can be purchased in the Bookstore on Monday 4/15/24
• Bring a fully charged Chromebook on the  day of testing
• Stay for the entire test day - students may not be signed out early due to disruptions. Both groups will need time to complete each section of the test. 
• Power off phones, airpods, and smartwatches during the entire testing day - students will not have access to phones during breaks or lunch per ACTs test security policies

ACT Practice and Information

ACT ASPIRE Practice and Information

If you would like your junior to leave at the end of testing, (which will be around 1:55pm), please fill out this form.   Early Release  We will not be accepting calls on the day of the test.   Please note your student must sign out through the front office for the absence to be excused.   As always, freshmen will not be released without a parent coming to the office and signing them out.  Please note, freshmen will not be released to you until the testing session is completely over.  

Thank you for your support in making this a great testing day for our students. 

Counseling Department

We want to inform you of an important update regarding summer school courses through Primavera. Recent reports indicate that Primavera is at risk of losing its charter from the state of Arizona charter school board due to concerns about academic performance. If Primavera were to lose its accreditation while your student is enrolled in a class, we would be required to adhere to the guidance of the Arizona Department of Education regarding the acceptance of the credit.

Given this uncertainty, we strongly advise against enrolling in summer courses through Primavera. We encourage students to consult with their School Counselor for alternative options. If your student has already planned to take classes through Primavera, we highly recommend scheduling a meeting with their counselor to explore other suitable options. If your student chooses to stay enrolled at Primavera they may ONLY attend session 1 as session 2 extends into the start of our school year and CSHS students cannot be co-enrolled here and at a free charter school. 

At CSHS, we remain committed to providing all students with a high-quality curriculum and instruction that supports their academic success.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

HEADS UP - Road Construction on Carefree Hwy Next Week

We want to inform you that road construction will be taking place on Carefree Highway next week. Please plan to leave a little earlier to ensure timely arrival at school, as delays may occur. Below is the traffic control schedule for the week.

Traffic Control Plan (TCP) Schedule:

Monday, 3/24

• TCP02: Small Mid-Block @ 60th St

Tuesday, 3/25

• TCP05: Right Turn Bay Closure @ Ridgeway Dr
• TCP07: Left Turn Bay Closure @ 60th St

Wednesday, 3/26

• TCP01: Mid-Block from Cave Creek to 56th St
• TCP06: Right Turn Bay Closure for Shopping Complex @ Scottsdale Rd

Thursday, 3/27

• TCP03: Mid-Block @ Terravita Way

Friday, 3/28

• TCP04: Right Turn Bay Closure @ Arroyo Rd
• TCP09: Partial Road Closure from Scottsdale Rd to first wash crossing
  (Westbound traffic will be routed through the eastbound side)

At least one travel lane in each direction will remain open throughout the week, and no flagging will be required. This schedule completes all approved traffic control plans, and no additional work is planned for the week of March 31st.

 Please check your email for further details, including maps from the City of Scottsdale, which were sent out by the school. Thank you for your cooperation and patience as these improvements take place.

A Reminder for Student Drivers: Drive Safely!

As students come onto campus in the morning and head off campus at the end of their school day, we want to remind everyone to drive safely and be mindful of pedestrians. A community member recently shared concerns about student drivers speeding through the roundabout at 64th and Dove Valley, some not noticing pedestrians waiting to cross. They also mentioned that several students didn't notice them in the crosswalk because they were on their cell phones. 

Many people—families with young children, cyclists, and older adults—use these crosswalks daily, and we all play a part in keeping our community safe. Parents, we appreciate your help in reminding students about safe driving habits, including following speed limits, staying off phones, and watching for pedestrians.

Falcons Athletics 

• Spring sports are in full swing!  Check out all schedules here and come watch a game!  You can import schedules directly to your phone by clicking the ESS button on the top right of the calendar. 

Senior Corner - Class of 2025

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• April 4th - (Deadline) All pictures for the prom slideshow must be turned in NO EXCEPTIONS. mail to: cshspics@ccusd93.net
• April 11th - ALL outstanding debts must be paid to the bookstore (Students will NOT be able to pick up their cap & gown until al debt are paid.)
• April 11th - Jostens will be on campus to hand out cap & gowns from 11:30-12:30 in the Lecture Hall.
• April 12th - Prom at On Jackson from 7-9 PM.
• April 18th - April Break (NO School)
• April 21st - Deadline to submit scholarship awards for the Senior Awards Assembly.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Senior Awards Day - May 6th, 2025

In preparation for this exciting event to honor our graduating seniors, we kindly ask parents and guardians to:

• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department via the online scholarship student input form. The deadline to submit all scholarships is April 21, 2025. 

From the PTO

 VIP Graduation Seats—Now Available! 

Want the best view for your graduate's big moment? Reserve your VIP seats today!

• $30 per seat (max 12 per graduate)
• Limited availability—act fast!
• Prime seating in the first 10 rows for added convenience
• Important: Reserved seating is entirely optional! The Desert Diamond Arena offers plenty of free seating for all guests.
• Bonus: Proceeds help fund the epic post-graduation party!

Secure your VIP Graduation Seats now by clicking here.

 Falcon Farewell: The Ultimate Post-Graduation Party!

Graduation night isn't over yet—keep the celebration going at Falcon Farewell at Chicken N Pickle!

Graduating Seniors are invited to join us right after Graduation until 1:00 a.m. for an unforgettable night packed with delicious food, epic games, and fabulous prizes! (No parents allowed.)

What's in store?

• Dinner & dessert
• Pickleball, corn hole, ping pong & more
• Live DJ to keep the party going
• Gift card wheel & HUGE raffle prizes—TVs, Keurigs, and $500/$250 gift cards!

Location: Chicken N Pickle (just across the parking lot from Desert Diamond Arena)

Tickets: $65 per CSHS graduate before April 1st—prices increase to $75 after! No tickets sold at the door!

Don’t miss out – secure your spot now by clicking here to purchase your ticket!

For questions please reach out to the PTO directly @ cshspto@gmail.com

Student Services and Testing

Dear CSHS Students and Parents, 

As we approach the upcoming state testing period, we want to provide you with important information and details to ensure a smooth and successful testing experience for your child.

The Arizona State Board of Education has mandated state achievement testing to all 9th and 11th grade students. On Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 the ACT Aspire test will be administered to all freshmen and the ACT will be administered to all juniors at Cactus Shadows High School. If you have a 10th or 12th grader, please continue to read for information on their asynchronous virtual learning, as they will not attend school in person on April 8th. 

The ACT Aspire test will assess these areas:

The ACT test will assess these areas:

On April 8th, while the freshman and juniors are at Cactus Shadows testing, all 10th and 12th grade students will have an asynchronous virtual learning day. Students will work from home and be provided their assignments for the day via Google Classroom.  Logging in and completing assignments on this day will count as the student’s attendance.  

April 8th Testing Information for Families

Transportation:

• AM bus pick up for 9th and 11th grade students will be at their normal times. 
  • Students cannot be called out during testing for any appointments.  All test takers will be released at the conclusion of their test.  They will not be permitted to sign out early for any reason.
• PM buses will leave CSHS with the students who ride the bus at 2pm. Please note that this is an earlier time.  

Lunch: 

Lunch will be provided to students while at school.

Testing Locations on Campus: 

Student testing locations will be posted by the library and in the cafeteria prior to the day of the test. On the day of the test, campus staff will be out and about to support students in getting to the proper location. 

Preparation:

To help your child prepare for the upcoming test, encourage them to review class materials and any provided study guides. Ensure they get a good night's sleep before the testing day and have a nutritious breakfast to support their concentration and energy levels.

Schedule:

 A schedule of the day is listed below.

APRIL 8th- ACT Aspire and ACT TESTING

Juniors Leaving Early:

If you would like your junior student to leave after testing is complete, please fill out the following form: ACT Early Release  *Please note phone calls will NOT be taken*

Questions and Support:

If you have any questions about testing or the schedule please feel free to reach out to RJ Morgan, our CSHS testing coordinator @ rmorgan@ccusd93.net or Christy Pine, his assistant @  cpine@ccusd93.net

We appreciate your partnership in your child's education, and we look forward to a successful testing period for all students. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

 The CSHS Administrative Team

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Teacher Recognition Awards

Looking for a meaningful way to recognize a teacher, school partner, or student who goes above and beyond? School Connect offers fantastic awards that make it easy to celebrate those who make a difference. The nomination process is simple, and it’s a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on someone truly deserving. Whether it’s a dedicated educator, a supportive community partner, or an outstanding student, these awards help highlight their hard work and impact. Take a moment to submit a nomination and give them the recognition they deserve! School Connect Nomination Form

Falcons Celebrate

Congratulations to all of our winter sports teams on an incredible 2024-25 season! Your hard work, dedication, and teamwork have made us so proud to be Falcons. Way to go!

Girls Basketball-Made the elite 8,  and to the quarterfinals game.  Placed 10th overall in the open bracket! 

Boys Basketball- Made the elite 8 in the open bracket and to the quarterfinals game. Placed 5th overall in the open bracket!

Girls Soccer-Made it to the semifinals. Placed 4th overall in the open bracket! 

Boys Soccer-Made it to the quarterfinals.  Placed 8th overall in the open bracket!

Wrestling-Placed 6th in the state over-all. State placers: Madi Behmer- 6th, Caleb Kelly- 6th, Jakob Duffey-4th, Carty Behmer-4th and Jax Finch-2nd.

Great job Falcons!

A Reminder for Student Drivers: Drive Safely!

As students come onto campus in the morning and head off campus at the end of their school day, we want to remind everyone to drive safely and be mindful of pedestrians. A community member recently shared concerns about student drivers speeding through the roundabout at 64th and Dove Valley, some not noticing pedestrians waiting to cross. They also mentioned that several students didn't notice them in the crosswalk because they were on their cell phones. 

Many people—families with young children, cyclists, and older adults—use these crosswalks daily, and we all play a part in keeping our community safe. Parents, we appreciate your help in reminding students about safe driving habits, including following speed limits, staying off phones, and watching for pedestrians.

Falcons Plan

• March 7th - 3rd Quarter ends.
• March 10th-14th - Spring Break
• Spring sports are in full swing!  Check out all schedules here and come watch a game!  You can import schedules directly to your phone by clicking the ESS button on the top right of the calendar. 

Senior Corner - Class of 2025

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• March 7th - 3rd Quarter ends. One more quarter to go!!
• March 17th - PTO will start hanging senior posters. Please see link for directions (Poster Directions)
• March 18th -  Mandatory Senior Meeting - Graduation Information (Periods 1-5 Econ/Gov or 1st hour)
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Senior Awards Day - May 6th, 2025

In preparation for this exciting event to honor our graduating seniors, we kindly ask parents and guardians to:

• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department or online with a scholarship student input form. The deadline to submit all scholarships is April 21, 2025. 

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

From the PTO

 VIP Graduation Seats—Now Available! 

Want the best view for your graduate's big moment? Reserve your VIP seats today!

• $30 per seat (max 12 per graduate)
• Limited availability—act fast!
• Prime seating in the first 10 rows for added convenience
• Important: Reserved seating is entirely optional! The Desert Diamond Arena offers plenty of free seating for all guests.
• Bonus: Proceeds help fund the epic post-graduation party!

Secure your VIP Graduation Seats now by clicking here.

 Falcon Farewell: The Ultimate Post-Graduation Party!

Graduation night isn't over yet—keep the celebration going at Falcon Farewell at Chicken N Pickle!

Graduating Seniors are invited to join us right after Graduation until 1:00 a.m. for an unforgettable night packed with delicious food, epic games, and fabulous prizes! (No parents allowed.)

What's in store?

• Dinner & dessert
• Pickleball, corn hole, ping pong & more
• Live DJ to keep the party going
• Gift card wheel & HUGE raffle prizes—TVs, Keurigs, and $500/$250 gift cards!

Location: Chicken N Pickle (just across the parking lot from Desert Diamond Arena)

Tickets: $65 per CSHS graduate before April 1st—prices increase to $75 after! No tickets sold at the door!

Don’t miss out – secure your spot now by clicking here to purchase your ticket!

For questions please reach out to the PTO directly @ cshspto@gmail.com

Attendance

• Our first state testing day is coming up on March 27th.  The juniors will be taking the AZ Science test.  The test will be over around lunch time and their 5th and 6th hour will be a completely normal class.  With that said, if you still would like your student to leave after the test you must fill out this form.   AZ SCI Early Release   Please note phone calls will NOT be taken for juniors to be released early that day.  The only way your student will be released after testing is to fill out this form.  The form is due on March 26th by 2:30pm. 

• Please do not tell your student that you have called the front office and they can just leave.  Any student leaving campus early must sign out through the office.   Absences are NOT excused if a student walks out the gate, whether you have called or not.

Student Services and Testing

IMPORTANT: All state testing is now digital, making it essential for every student to come prepared. To ensure a smooth testing experience, ALL students must remember to bring a fully charged Chromebook with them on test days. A dead or forgotten device could cause unnecessary delays and complications, so it is crucial to charge Chromebooks the night before and double-check that they are ready to go. Being prepared will help students stay focused and perform their best without any technical disruptions.

Horizon 

Horizon Education is an SAT® and ACT® preparation solution that provides expertly designed programs to high schools and districts. The comprehensive approach features grade level formative benchmark assessments for the ACT® and SAT®, complete with immediate results and scoring analytics.

Where:  Cactus Shadows High School (taken during English and math classes)

• Who:  Freshmen - Juniors 
• When: March 9th, 10th & 11th

• AzSCI 

AZ Sci is the statewide achievement test for Science for Grade 11. This test assesses the Science standards from 9-11 grade with an emphasis on physical science, life science, earth and space science, as well as the engineering practices within these standards.   

Where:  Cactus Shadows High School 

• Who:  Juniors 
• When: March 27th
  
  AzSCI Student Resources:

AzSCI Sample Test – Select Arizona, then click on “Mic Check and Sample Tests”

Recorded Videos for Using the AzSCI Sample Tests:

Accessing the Sample Test
How the Tests are Set Up
Item Types

**In order for your student to leave after the testing, you will need to fill out this form.  Calls will NOT be taken for juniors to leave early that day.  AZ SCI Early Release

ACT Aspire 

• ACT Aspire is the state assessment for all 9th grade students. 
• 
  Where: Cactus Shadows High School (rooms will be assigned)
• Who: Freshman
• When: April 8th (hybrid day, all Sophomores/ Seniors stay home that day)
   
• Why: The purpose of the ACT Aspire is to show readiness to take the ACT. Like the ACT, the ACT Aspire is a timed test. Students will spend a combined total of about four hours completing the test. Students will be tested in the following areas: English, Math, Seading, and Science. This test is required for all Arizona Freshman students. 
• 
  ACT Aspire Student Resources:
  ACT Aspire website
  Student Sandbox and Exemplar Booklets
  ACT Calculator Policy

ACT 

The ACT is the state assessment for all 11th grade students.

Where:  Cactus Shadows High School (rooms will be assigned)

Who:  Juniors 

When: April 8th (hybrid day, all Sophomores/ Seniors stay home that day)
The ACT is free for Cactus Shadows students taking it during our scheduled testing window.

Why: The ACT® test motivates students to perform to their best ability. Test scores reflect what students have learned throughout high school and provide colleges and universities with excellent information for recruiting, advising, placement, and retention.  This test is required for all Arizona Junior students.

ACT Student Resources:

Download the Most Current ACT Student Guide

ACT Test Preparation

ACT Calculator Policy

Arizona Department of Education - Parent and Students Information

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program

Calling all future Sun Devils, Lumberjacks, and Wildcats! The Thunderbirds Scholarship application is live!

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program provides a four-year, full ride scholarship for Arizona students to attend Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or University of Arizona. This scholarship covers the cost of attendance including tuition, fees, and room and board!

Thunderbirds Scholars also receive mentoring from Education Forward Arizona, support with study abroad opportunities, internships and other incredible programs and opportunities.

The deadline to apply is March 15. Don’t let this opportunity slip by! Find out more about requirements and how to apply and get a head start on achieving your education dreams!

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Winter sports Success

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible success of our Winter sports season! Thank you for your dedication and support of our students. Congratulations to the coaches and our student-athletes!

Wrestling, Coach Brian Kunkel

-Region Champions (1st time in program history!)

-8 Boys Wrestlers qualified for the State Tournament

-1 Female Wrestler qualified for the State Tournament

Competing this weekend at the State Tournament

Girls Basketball, Coach Alex Wampfler

-Open Qualifiers (1st time in program history!)

-Seeded 8th in 4-A State Playoffs

Playing Tucson, Sahuaro on Thursday, February 27th (Home) 7:00pm

Boys Basketball, Coach Zach Washut

-Open Qualifiers (1st time in program history!)

-Seeded 5th in 4-A State Playoffs

Awaiting opponent (Home Game on Wednesday, February 26th) 7:00pm

Girls Soccer, Coach Adam Zelmanowicz

-Open Qualifiers (1st time in program history!)

-Region Champions

-Seeded 4th in 4-A State Playoffs

-Coach Adam:  Region Coach of the Year

Playing Arcadia HS on Saturday, February 22 (Home) 12:00pm

Boys Soccer, Coach Paul Sitto

-Open Qualifiers (1st time in program history!)

-Region Champions

-Seeded 8th in 4-A State Playoffs

-Coach Paul:  Region Coach of the Year

Falcons Plan

• March 3rd - Kicking off spring with Cactus Thunder Week
• March 5th - College and Career Fair, CSHS Campus.
• March 7th - 3rd Quarter ends.
• March 10th-14th - Spring Break

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Spring athletic fees have been assessed to all rostered student athletes.  Payments are due by Monday March 3, 2025.

• Winter Sports Playoffs & State Games

  Come our and cheer our Falcons on as they all compete post season!

  Girls Basketball Rankings and Bracket

  Boys Basketball Rankings and Bracket

  Girls Soccer Rankings and Bracket

  Boys Soccer Rankings and Bracket

  All state games are run through AIA. Family and Student passes are not valid. Tickets can be purchased through GoFan.

Senior Corner - Class of 2025

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• March 17th - PTO will start hanging senior posters. Please see link for directions (Poster Directions)
• March 18th -  Mandatory Senior Meeting - Graduation Information (Periods 1-5 Econ/Gov or 1st hour)
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Senior Awards Day - May 6th, 2025

In preparation for this exciting event to honor our graduating seniors, we kindly ask parents and guardians to:

• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department or online with a scholarship student input form.

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Attendance

Great job parents!!!  Tardies have been better this month.  In January we had an average of about (400) a week.  In February we are only averaging about (275) a week!  Please keep talking to your students about the importance of being on time to class.  As a reminder…

As outlined in the Student Handbook 2024-2025:

"Tardies are considered a disruption to the classroom environment. Arriving late not only limits the learning time for tardy students but also disrupts the education of others. Students are expected to be on campus in time for the commencement of the school day. Students consistently arriving late to school may be subject to disciplinary action."

Students who have an unexcused tardy to class will receive the following consequences:

• 5th Tardy - Warning letter
• 8th Tardy - Lunch detention 
• 10th Tardy - After school detention
• 15th Tardy - Saturday school
• 15+ Tardies - will be handled on a case by case basis with the AP

Student Services and Testing

Horizon 

Horizon Education is an SAT® and ACT® preparation solution that provides expertly designed programs to high schools and districts. The comprehensive approach features grade level formative benchmark assessments for the ACT® and SAT®, complete with immediate results and scoring analytics.

Where:  Cactus Shadows High School (taken during English and math classes)

• Who:  Freshmen - Juniors 
• When: March 9th, 10th & 11th
• 
  AzSCI 

AZ Sci is the statewide achievement test for Science for Grade 11. This test assesses the Science standards from 9-11 grade with an emphasis on physical science, life science, earth and space science, as well as the engineering practices within these standards.   

• Where:  Cactus Shadows High School (taken during Science courses/ rooms will be assigned)
• Who:  Juniors 
• When: March 28th and 29th
  
  AzSCI Student Resources:

AzSCI Sample Test – Select Arizona, then click on “Mic Check and Sample Tests”

Recorded Videos for Using the AzSCI Sample Tests:

Accessing the Sample Test
How the Tests are Set Up
Item Types

ACT Aspire 

• ACT Aspire is the state assessment for all 9th grade students. 
• 
  Where: Cactus Shadows High School (rooms will be assigned)
• Who: Freshman
• When: April 8th (hybrid day, all Sophomores/ Seniors stay home that day)
   
• Why: The purpose of the ACT Aspire is to show readiness to take the ACT. Like the ACT, the ACT Aspire is a timed test. Students will spend a combined total of about four hours completing the test. Students will be tested in the following areas: English, Math, Seading, and Science. This test is required for all Arizona Freshman students. 
• 
  ACT Aspire Student Resources:
  ACT Aspire website
  Student Sandbox and Exemplar Booklets
  ACT Calculator Policy

ACT 

The ACT is the state assessment for all 11th grade students.

Where:  Cactus Shadows High School (rooms will be assigned)

Who:  Juniors 

When: April 8th (hybrid day, all Sophomores/ Seniors stay home that day)
The ACT is free for Cactus Shadows students taking it during our scheduled testing window.

Why: The ACT® test motivates students to perform to their best ability. Test scores reflect what students have learned throughout high school and provide colleges and universities with excellent information for recruiting, advising, placement, and retention.  This test is required for all Arizona Junior students.

ACT Student Resources:

Download the Most Current ACT Student Guide

ACT Test Preparation

ACT Calculator Policy

Arizona Department of Education - Parent and Students Information

.

2025-2026 School Year Course Registration update

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We have now concluded the course scheduling process for the upcoming school year. If your student has not yet met with their counselor, please have them schedule a time as soon as possible to finalize their course selections. 

As we move forward with staffing plans for next school year, elective course changes will no longer be possible.  We appreciate your support and understanding as we work to create schedules that set students up for success while ensuring a well-rounded education. 

If you have any questions, please reach out to your student's counselor.

Kiwanis Scholarship Information

We’re excited to share that our local Kiwanis group is offering over $500,000 in scholarships this year for high school seniors, with the majority of funds dedicated to students right here in the Cave Creek area! This is a tremendous opportunity for local students planning to pursue education after graduation, whether at a 4-year university, 2-year college, or trade school.

The application process is straightforward, and students can access the application at:
www.kiwanisscholarship.org

Here’s how it works:

1. Students will create an account to begin the application.
2. Once the account is set up, a personalized link to access the application will be provided.
3. Students can save their progress and return to complete the application later.

Important Note: The link to the application will expire 30 days after the last save date. If this happens, students will need to start a new application, so we encourage them to plan accordingly.

If you have any questions, the Kiwanis Scholarship Program team is happy to assist. Please contact them at:
scholarship@kiwaniscarefree.org

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program

Calling all future Sun Devils, Lumberjacks, and Wildcats! The Thunderbirds Scholarship application is live!

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program provides a four-year, full ride scholarship for Arizona students to attend Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or University of Arizona. This scholarship covers the cost of attendance including tuition, fees, and room and board!

Thunderbirds Scholars also receive mentoring from Education Forward Arizona, support with study abroad opportunities, internships and other incredible programs and opportunities.

The deadline to apply is March 15. Don’t let this opportunity slip by! Find out more about requirements and how to apply and get a head start on achieving your education dreams!

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcon Celebrate

BIG NEWS! We are so proud of our Falcon winter sports teams! 🎉 Boys & Girls Soccer, Boys & Girls Basketball, and Wrestling have all made it to the State Championships! What a great day to be a Falcon!

Let’s show our support as they continue their journey—stay tuned for game details and come cheer them on! 💙⚽🏀🤼 #GoFalcons #StateBound

Follow along as rankings and brackets are released!

Girls Soccer rankings, Girls Soccer bracket

Boys Soccer rankings, Boys Soccer bracket

Girls Basketball rankings, Girls Basketball bracket

Boys Basketball rankings, Boys Basketball bracket

Wrestling Championship boys and girls schedules.

Falcons Plan

February 17th -  Presidents' Day - No School

Student Services and Testing

All juniors will be taking the ASVAB assessment test on February 20th. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is a multiple-aptitude test that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military. It is administered annually to more than one million military applicants, high school, and post-secondary students. CCUSD requires students to take unless opting out.

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Spring sports tryouts begin Monday February 10th.  You must be cleared through Aktivate (formally Register My Athlete) in order to try-out. Coaches will not accept forms, all forms must be uploaded to the app or turned in to the athletic department. The athletic office closes at 3pm.
• Athletic fees will be assessed to all accounts once rosters are finalized.  You will receive an email once the fee has been added with options for how to pay. 

Senior Corner - Class of 2025

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• February 17th - Presidents Day - (NO SCHOOL).
• March 5th - College and Career Fair, CSHS Campus.
• March 7th - 3rd Quarter ends.
• March 10th-14th - Spring Break.
• March 17th - PTO will start hanging senior posters. Please see link for directions (Poster Directions)
• March 18th -  Mandatory Senior Meeting - Graduation Information (Periods 1-5 Econ/Gov or 1st hour)
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Attendance

There has been an increase in students leaving campus early without checking out through the office. Please remind your student of the importance of following proper procedures by signing out before leaving. Even if you have called the office to excuse their early departure, they must still sign out for the absence to be excused. Thank you for your cooperation!

Health Office Update

As we are currently in the midst of respiratory illness season, we kindly ask all parents to monitor their children for signs of illness. If your child is not feeling well, please keep them at home to help prevent the spread of illness. Common symptoms to watch for include: cough, runny nose, fever, and sore throat. In addition, please remind your child of the importance of frequent hand washing to help reduce the spread of germs. We also want to remind parents to be vigilant about lice. Lice can be active year-round, so we
encourage you to make checking for lice a regular part of your routine. For more information on how to treat lice, please refer to this link

Thank you for your continued efforts in helping to keep our school community safe and healthy.

Kiwanis Scholarship Information

We’re excited to share that our local Kiwanis group is offering over $500,000 in scholarships this year for high school seniors, with the majority of funds dedicated to students right here in the Cave Creek area! This is a tremendous opportunity for local students planning to pursue education after graduation, whether at a 4-year university, 2-year college, or trade school.

The application process is straightforward, and students can access the application at:
www.kiwanisscholarship.org

Here’s how it works:

1. Students will create an account to begin the application.
2. Once the account is set up, a personalized link to access the application will be provided.
3. Students can save their progress and return to complete the application later.

Important Note: The link to the application will expire 30 days after the last save date. If this happens, students will need to start a new application, so we encourage them to plan accordingly.

If you have any questions, the Kiwanis Scholarship Program team is happy to assist. Please contact them at:
scholarship@kiwaniscarefree.org

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program

Calling all future Sun Devils, Lumberjacks, and Wildcats! The Thunderbirds Scholarship application is live!

The Thunderbirds Scholars Program provides a four-year, full ride scholarship for Arizona students to attend Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or University of Arizona. This scholarship covers the cost of attendance including tuition, fees, and room and board!

Thunderbirds Scholars also receive mentoring from Education Forward Arizona, support with study abroad opportunities, internships and other incredible programs and opportunities.

The deadline to apply is March 15. Don’t let this opportunity slip by! Find out more about requirements and how to apply and get a head start on achieving your education dreams!

Artificial Intelligence Summer 2025 Intensive in Scottsdale!

Developed and Taught By Stanford and MIT Alumni and Graduate Students.

  https://iaiinscottsdale25.paperform.co/

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcon Celebrate

We have spectacular news!

Our Falcon Abbey Gold has been selected as a Topical Winner. 

Her poem will be included in the "My World" section of 

our "American High School Poets" - Winter 2025 anthology.

The book My World will be available on Amazon.com starting January 20th. This anthology features introspective poems written by teenagers for teenagers, exploring their perspectives on moral and social issues. Less than 2% of submissions are selected for publication, emphasizing the exceptional quality and passion of the chosen works.

The organization highlights the importance of sharing poetry to foster understanding, share experiences, and build connections among young poets. For over 20 years, the sale of these anthologies has funded this platform, supported by volunteers who believe in its mission.

Scholarship winners for the quarter ending December 31 will be announced on the organization’s website by the end of January. Additionally, the founder, D. Edward Dieter, has a new poetry collection, Fossils, available on Amazon with sample pages to preview. Congratulations Abbey, we are so proud of you!

Falcons Plan

January 27th- Spring Sports Parent Meeting, 5:00-6:30. Lecture Hall, followed by breakout rooms. 

February 5th - CSHS Spring Signing Ceremony Day* 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM, Blue Gym 

February 17th -  Presidents' Day - No School

Student Services and Testing

• All club fees are due on January 30th.  You can easily pay online by following these steps:
  • Under “Popular Links” choose “Text Credit Donations, General Payments”
  • Click “Make a student payment”
  • Log in
  • Under “Shop/Donate” choose “Items at Student’s School and Tax Credit Donations”
  • Click “Club Fees”
  • Select your student’s club 

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Spring sports registration is now open.  Please fill out your Aktivate (formally Register My Athlete) profile asap.   You must be cleared through Aktivate in order to try-out.  First official date of Spring Tryouts is Monday February 10th. 
• A mandatory parent-athlete Spring Sports Meeting will be held on Monday January 27th from 5:00-6:30 in our Lecture Hall.  We will have an important presentation by our Athletic Director, Mr. Gilmore, followed by breakout rooms with each sport.  

Student Parking

We have a few parking spaces available for purchase in our West Lot. Once that lot is full, we will begin enrolling spaces in the 56th Street Lot, located in front of our baseball and softball fields. Please note that all student parking lots require a valid placard. Unfortunately, we do not offer any free or overflow parking options. This includes the parking spaces in the FAC/Black Mountain Elementary School parking lot.

We encourage you to have a conversation with your student about parking in their designated spaces. A designated security attendant will be patrolling the student lots and the FAC/Black Mountain Elementary School parking lot beginning Monday January 13th.  Vehicles parked in unauthorized spots will receive tickets, and repeated infractions may result in disciplinary actions, such as the revocation of parking privileges.

Please ensure that you and your student review the parking policies agreed upon during enrollment.  You can also find information on how to apply for parking in this link as well. 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department or online with a scholarship student input form.

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Why Being On Time Matters...

We are reaching out to address a growing concern regarding unexcused tardies. During the first week back after the holiday break, we recorded 392 unexcused tardies. The following week, this number increased to 469. Alarmingly, with only two days counted so far this week, we have already reached 320.

Arriving to school on time is crucial for your student's academic success and for maintaining a productive learning environment. We kindly ask that you speak with your student about the importance of punctuality and the impact it has on their education.

Your partnership and support in helping us address this matter are greatly appreciated. If there are any challenges preventing your student from arriving on time, please feel free to contact the school office for assistance.

Thank you for your continued commitment to your student’s success.

Kiwanis Scholarship Information

We’re excited to share that our local Kiwanis group is offering over $500,000 in scholarships this year for high school seniors, with the majority of funds dedicated to students right here in the Cave Creek area! This is a tremendous opportunity for local students planning to pursue education after graduation, whether at a 4-year university, 2-year college, or trade school.

The application process is straightforward, and students can access the application at:
www.kiwanisscholarship.org

Here’s how it works:

1. Students will create an account to begin the application.
2. Once the account is set up, a personalized link to access the application will be provided.
3. Students can save their progress and return to complete the application later.

Important Note: The link to the application will expire 30 days after the last save date. If this happens, students will need to start a new application, so we encourage them to plan accordingly.

If you have any questions, the Kiwanis Scholarship Program team is happy to assist. Please contact them at:
scholarship@kiwaniscarefree.org

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

January 20th - MLK Day (NO SCHOOL)

January 23rd - Future Falcon Night 6-8PM 

January 27th- Spring Sports Parent Meeting, 5:00-6:30

Student Services and Testing

• Horizon testing will be taking place in your student’s math and ELA classes on 1/14 and 1/16/25.
• ASVAB testing for all juniors will be held on 2/20/25
• All club fees are due on January 30th. 
• You can easily pay online by following these steps:
  • Under “Popular Links” choose “Text Credit Donations, General Payments”
  • Click “Make a student payment”
  • Log in
  • Under “Shop/Donate” choose “Items at Student’s School and Tax Credit Donations”
  • Click “Club Fees”
  • Select your student’s club 

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes!  They are doing great things! 
• A few Spring Sports have started pre-season workouts. Please check our webpages for the most up to date information and coach contact for more details! https://cshs.ccusd93.org/athletics.  
• Get a head start on completing your Aktivate (formally Register My Athlete) profile early for Spring Sports!  You must be cleared through Aktivate in order to try-out.  First official date of Spring Tryouts is Monday February 10th. 
• A mandatory parent-athlete Spring Sports Meeting will be held on Monday January 27th from 5:00-6:30.  We will have an important presentation by our Athletic Director, Mr. Gilmore, followed by breakout rooms with each sport.  

Student Parking

We have a few parking spaces available for purchase in our West Lot. Once that lot is full, we will begin enrolling spaces in the 56th Street Lot, located in front of our baseball and softball fields. Please note that all student parking lots require a valid placard. Unfortunately, we do not offer any free or overflow parking options. This includes the parking spaces in the FAC/Black Mountain Elementary School parking lot.

We encourage you to have a conversation with your student about parking in their designated spaces. A designated security attendant will be patrolling the student lots and the FAC/Black Mountain Elementary School parking lot beginning Monday January 13th.  Vehicles parked in unauthorized spots will receive tickets, and repeated infractions may result in disciplinary actions, such as the revocation of parking privileges.

Please ensure that you and your student review the parking policies agreed upon during enrollment.  You can also find information on how to apply for parking in this link as well. 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• January 20th - MLK Day (no School)
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department or online with a scholarship student input form.

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Why Being On Time Matters...

As an administration, we cannot stress enough the importance of being on time to school. Punctuality sets the tone for a productive day and ensures students remain on track with their academic responsibilities.

This week alone, we have recorded a total of 262 tardies during first hour, which is a significant disruption to both the tardy students and their classmates. We kindly ask for your assistance in reinforcing the importance of arriving to school on time.

Below, you will find our District’s Tardy Policy and Procedure, which outlines the consequences of excessive tardiness. We encourage you to review this with your student to help us minimize interruptions and support a strong learning environment.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Excessive Absence/Tardy Procedure 

The school district expects parents/guardians to call the attendance office each day a student is absent from school. Reasonable attempts will be made by the school, through phone calls or letters, to inform parents/guardians of a student’s absence. This is a sincere attempt by the local school to work with the family in resolving a student’s attendance problem.

● When a student transfers from one school to another within the Cave Creek Unified School District, the student’s attendance record will transfer to the new school.

● Copies of the correspondence to parents/guardians will be distributed to appropriate school personnel.

● Excused absences due to school activities (athletics, field trips, performing groups, student government, etc.) are excluded from the attendance/tardy policy.

● Absences from scheduled classes as a result of on or off-campus suspensions will be included in the total number of absences for the semester in which the suspension occurs

Kiwanis Scholarship Information

We’re excited to share that our local Kiwanis group is offering over $500,000 in scholarships this year for high school seniors, with the majority of funds dedicated to students right here in the Cave Creek area! This is a tremendous opportunity for local students planning to pursue education after graduation, whether at a 4-year university, 2-year college, or trade school.

The application process is straightforward, and students can access the application at:
www.kiwanisscholarship.org

Here’s how it works:

1. Students will create an account to begin the application.
2. Once the account is set up, a personalized link to access the application will be provided.
3. Students can save their progress and return to complete the application later.

Important Note: The link to the application will expire 30 days after the last save date. If this happens, students will need to start a new application, so we encourage them to plan accordingly.

If you have any questions, the Kiwanis Scholarship Program team is happy to assist. Please contact them at:
scholarship@kiwaniscarefree.org

Registration Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year

January 15th : Rising Sophomores Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 15th - January 16th : Rising Sophomores Online Registration Open 

January 17th : Rising Sophomores 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 21 : Rising Juniors Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 21 - January 23 : Rising Juniors Online Registration Open 

January 24 - January 27 : Rising Juniors 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 27- January 31 : Make up dates for all students

More on Course Registration...

Teacher Course Description : 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/12w5QgMKCZMISz4UBz0-aZ2c3hnENKzN6P-B-kn4itqY/edit?tab=t.0

Teacher Recommendations:

Department Chairs are currently working on getting student recommendations back to counselors by the week of 1/7 to guide in choosing courses for the following year.

Understanding Drug Trends

CCUSD is pleased to invite you to an important presentation on Tuesday, January 21st where national speaker Officer Jermaine Galloway, aka “The Tall Cop” will present his insights of our community and how we can keep our community safe and informed in regards to drugs and alcohol. Officer Galloway will share data from our own community and cover topics on how to recognize signs of substance use, prevention strategies, and resources available for support.  

We believe that coming together as a community, we can make a significant impact in addressing this critical issue.  Your participation and engagement are vital to our shared efforts.  

We hope you will join us in learning and discussing how we can protect our loved ones and strengthen our community.  We will provide food and drinks prior to the presentation as well.  

Please RSVP by Wednesday, January 8th.  You can use the QR code in the flyer or click on this link:   https://forms.gle/7uDxs2ipDJwrqxWy9

Thank you for your continued commitment to the well-being of our community. 

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcon Celebrate

Our Cactus Shadows Counseling team took a select group of Sophomore & Juniors to EVIT on Wednesday 12/11 to explore the various options of career/trade certificates that are offered through a hands on learning experience. Students got to choose between 4 grouped trades based on their interests and got a behind the scenes tour by EVIT students. Some of the highlights of the trip were getting to see the Medical Assisting students drawing blood, watching the Fire science student run drills fully suited, and get too close for comfort while the welding students were lighting up the scene working on local projects for the city. Overall, our student's could not wait to be get started at EVIT next school year. If your student is interested in the EVIT program, please have them reach out to our EVIT counselor Ms. Alicia Young for more information.

Falcons Plan

December 23rd-January 5th - Winter Break!

January 1st -  Yearbooks are available to purchase. You can purchase them in the bookstore or online with the link. The price is $95.00 until the close out date. School code 16423 https://www.yearbookordercenter.com/index.cfm/job/16423%C2%A0

January 6th - School resumes. Second semester begins.

January 20th - MLK Day (NO SCHOOL)

News from the Attendance Office

As of December 18th, there have been 4,626 unexcused tardies during first hour alone. Each late arrival disrupts the learning environment and causes students to miss valuable instruction time, which can have a lasting impact on their success.

Our goal for next semester is to prioritize not only attending school but also arriving on time and ready to learn. We kindly ask for your support in reminding your student of the importance of punctuality and how it contributes to their overall academic success. Please read the tardy policy below.

Thank you for your partnership in helping us create an environment that fosters learning and growth.

Excessive Absence/Tardy Procedure • To prevent a student from unknowingly losing credit, the attendance office will correspond with the student and parents/guardians concerning the district attendance policy only on the first occurrence of the fifth (5th) absence and/or tardy in any class period during the semester. • Students who reach eight (8) absences and/or tardies in one or more class during any semester will be automatically placed on ACADEMIC PROBATION. Students will be removed from ACADEMIC PROBATION at the end of the current semester if they have ten (10) or fewer absences for the current semester. • Students will be notified that they have been placed on ACADEMIC PROBATION and the students will be given the written conditions of probation and a due process affidavit. • If the student remains in the class and has no further unapproved absences, and is not involved in disciplinary or disruptive behavior, and is passing the class in all respects, they may petition for credit. • In the case of prolonged absences (90 days) of a student from school, the principal will advise the student’s parents/guardians concerning the availability of teaching services for homebound students. The principal will determine each instance whether provisions for such services are appropriate. Loss of Credit High school students may lose credit for any class in which they accumulate 10 absences during a semester. The only exception to this rule will be when the administration decides that adequate evidence has been presented indicating an unusual circumstance, such as prolonged illness, requiring an accumulation beyond the maximum of 10 absences. Loss of Credit-Appeal Procedure An appeal procedure will be provided whereby a student may appeal the loss of credit for a course to principal or designee. It will be the responsibility of the student to present evidence to the principal or designee that would indicate that special circumstances existed to justify an exemption for the loss-of-credit policy  

Tax Credit Donations

Thanks to the Arizona state tax credit for public schools, it is possible to receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes! You may give up to $400 (if married filing jointly) or $200 (if filing individually) for a child’s K-12 extracurricular expenses and take advantage of the tax credit.
   
Consider your child’s athletic fees, band performance, field trip, test preparation fee, CTE certification and most other extracurricular fees that qualify through the tax credit program. Spend your tax dollars in your neighborhood and make the day a little brighter for the students in your local Cave Creek Unified District.
 
Visit CCUSD Tax Credits to find out more or to make an online donation today.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes!  They are doing great things! 
• A few Spring Sports have started pre-season workouts. Please check our webpages for the most up to date information and coach contact for more details! https://cshs.ccusd93.org/athletics.  
• Get a head start on completing your Aktivate (formally Register My Athlete) profile early for Spring Sports!  You must be cleared through Aktivate in order to try-out.

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• January 6th - School resumes. Second semester begins.
• Begin collecting and submitting scholarship award letters even if you're NOT attending that college. We collect and report all your scholarship offers , even to the colleges you don’t go to. You will submit this information to Mrs. Gallardo in the counseling department or online with a scholarship student input form.

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Kiwanis Scholarship Information

We’re excited to share that our local Kiwanis group is offering over $500,000 in scholarships this year for high school seniors, with the majority of funds dedicated to students right here in the Cave Creek area! This is a tremendous opportunity for local students planning to pursue education after graduation, whether at a 4-year university, 2-year college, or trade school.

The application process is straightforward, and students can access the application at:
www.kiwanisscholarship.org

Here’s how it works:

1. Students will create an account to begin the application.
2. Once the account is set up, a personalized link to access the application will be provided.
3. Students can save their progress and return to complete the application later.

Important Note: The link to the application will expire 30 days after the last save date. If this happens, students will need to start a new application, so we encourage them to plan accordingly.

If you have any questions, the Kiwanis Scholarship Program team is happy to assist. Please contact them at:
scholarship@kiwaniscarefree.org

Winter break is the perfect time for students to complete their application and take advantage of this fantastic local scholarship opportunity.

Registration Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year

January 7th : Rising Seniors Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 7 - January 9 : Rising Seniors Online Registration Open 

January 10th - January 13th : Rising Seniors 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 15th : Rising Sophomores Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 15th - January 16th : Rising Sophomores Online Registration Open 

January 17th : Rising Sophomores 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 21 : Rising Juniors Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 21 - January 23 : Rising Juniors Online Registration Open 

January 24 - January 27 : Rising Juniors 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 27- January 31 : Make up dates for all students

More on Course Registration...

Teacher Course Description : 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/12w5QgMKCZMISz4UBz0-aZ2c3hnENKzN6P-B-kn4itqY/edit?tab=t.0

Teacher Recommendations:

Department Chairs are currently working on getting student recommendations back to counselors by the week of 1/7 to guide in choosing courses for the following year.

Understanding Drug Trends

CCUSD is pleased to invite you to an important presentation on Tuesday, January 21st where national speaker Officer Jermaine Galloway, aka “The Tall Cop” will present his insights of our community and how we can keep our community safe and informed in regards to drugs and alcohol. Officer Galloway will share data from our own community and cover topics on how to recognize signs of substance use, prevention strategies, and resources available for support.  

We believe that coming together as a community, we can make a significant impact in addressing this critical issue.  Your participation and engagement are vital to our shared efforts.  

We hope you will join us in learning and discussing how we can protect our loved ones and strengthen our community.  We will provide food and drinks prior to the presentation as well.  

Please RSVP by Wednesday, January 8th.  You can use the QR code in the flyer or click on this link:   https://forms.gle/7uDxs2ipDJwrqxWy9

Thank you for your continued commitment to the well-being of our community. 

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

Final exam days December 18th, 19th & 20th  - To ensure all students have the best possible testing environment with minimal distractions, we will NOT be calling students out of classes for early release. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

December 23rd-31st - Winter Break!

Bookstore Information 

Fee Payment Notice

We wanted to share an important update regarding tax credit donations and payments for student club or athletic fees using the tax credit program. Please note that we cannot accept checks from LLCs for tax credit payments. This policy applies exclusively to tax credit contributions.

Thank you for your understanding and support of Cactus Shadows High School!

News from the Attendance Office

• Sign-in/Sign-out Policy: Students must sign in or out through the office for an absence to be excused. Parents calling alone doesn’t suffice.
• PowerSchool Refresh: When checking attendance in the app, always refresh it to ensure the information is up to date.
• Finals Days: There will be no early releases on final exam days. The school won't interrupt classrooms, even if students finish their exams early.
• Attendance Reset After Winter Break: Attendance counts start fresh after winter break; refer to the student handbook for more details.
• Patience with Updates: Attendance updates may be delayed due to other office tasks. If there’s still an issue after 5:00 PM and you’ve refreshed your app, then call the office.  
• Sports and Activities Absences: Parents don’t need to report their student’s participation in events. The office will eventually receive the rosters and update attendance records.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes!  They are doing great things! 
• A few Spring Sports have started pre-season workouts. Please check our webpages for the most up to date information and coach contact for more details! https://cshs.ccusd93.org/athletics

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• December 9th - Senior headshot picture due to Dorian Studios. If you do not get your headshot in by this date it will not be included i the yearbook. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE.
• December 18th-20th  Semester one final exams.
• December 23rd-31st Winter Break!

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore, starting January 1, 2025. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

More for Course Registration

Join us on Monday December 9th! Hear from CSHS counselors on how parents can help their students navigate the course selection process for the upcoming 25-26 school year. 

Registration Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year

December 12th : Rising Freshman Presentation @ Sonoran Trails Middle School

December 16th : Counselors return to STMS for 1-1 Course Selection Meeting

January 7th : Rising Seniors Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 7 - January 9 : Rising Seniors Online Registration Open 

January 10th - January 13th : Rising Seniors 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 15th : Rising Sophomores Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 15th - January 16th : Rising Sophomores Online Registration Open 

January 17th : Rising Sophomores 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 21 : Rising Juniors Presentation by counselors in CSHS Lecture Hall

January 21 - January 23 : Rising Juniors Online Registration Open 

January 24 - January 27 : Rising Juniors 1:1 Meeting with Counselor 

January 27- January 31 : Make up dates for all students

PVCC

In case you missed our live presentation, we are excited to announce a virtual information session on December 9th where we’ll be covering all the key details you need to know. 

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office.

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

• November 27th -29th - Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
• On Thursday, December 5th, at 8:25 a.m., Cactus Shadows High School will conduct a Lockdown Drill as part of our ongoing commitment to student safety and preparedness. During this time, students will not be able to be signed in or out of the office until the drill is complete. 

  We want to ensure that our students understand the critical importance of these drills, both within and beyond the Cactus Shadows campus. Lockdown drills provide essential practice for responding calmly and effectively in case of emergencies. However, we’ve received feedback from many teachers that some students do not take these drills as seriously as they should.

  We kindly ask for your support in emphasizing the importance of these drills. Before December 4th, please take a few moments to discuss with your students why practicing safety protocols is essential—for their own safety and for the safety of our entire community. Encourage them to approach the drill with the seriousness it deserves, as these skills could be vital in real-life situations both on the campus of Cactus Shadows and outside of campus, in their daily lives, as well.

  Thank you for partnering with us to maintain a safe and secure environment for all Falcons. Your cooperation ensures that we are prepared to respond effectively in any situation. If you have any questions about the drill, please feel free to reach out

• Final exam days December 18th, 19th & 20th  - To ensure all students have the best possible testing environment with minimal distractions, we will NOT be calling students out of classes for early release. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Bookstore Information 

The bookstore will be open on November 25 but closed on November 26, with limited hours following Thanksgiving.

This adjustment is due to the current bookstore manager transitioning out of their role, and we are in the process of hiring a new manager.

If students have any immediate needs related to the bookstore, we encourage them to address those needs by the end of the day on November 25.

Thank you for your understanding and patience during this transition.

Falcon Parents, We Need Your Help!

We are reaching out to ask for your assistance in addressing ongoing vandalism in our school restrooms. Recently, there have been repeated incidents of students writing on walls, urinating on floors and toilet paper rolls, and clogging urinals with toilet paper.

Our night custodial team has had to repaint walls and perform deep cleanings of the same restrooms three nights in a row, which requires significant time, money, and resources. These efforts take away from other important tasks and put unnecessary strain on our staff.

Please talk to your students about the importance of respecting our shared spaces and taking care of school facilities. Remind them that their actions impact everyone in our community.

We greatly appreciate your support in helping maintain a clean and respectful environment for all students and staff. Thank you for your partnership in this matter!

Attendance Policy

• The right and privilege of attending public school carries with it certain responsibilities on the part of parents and students. High school attendance is ultimately the responsibility of the student and his/her family. It is important that parents and students recognize the direct relationship that exists between academic success and regular school attendance.
  
  Definitions:
  Absence - A student who arrives more than halfway into class is considered absent.
  Excused absence - An absence is excused if a parent or guardian notifies the school within 24 hours. The reason for the absence must be given.
  Off-Campus Pass - Generated by the front office staff allowing students to leave campus with parent/guardian permission.  Students must sign out through the office in order for the absence(s) to be excused.
  School-related absence - If a student misses class due to a pre-approved school-related activity, it will not count as an absence.
  Suspension - The days of suspension do not count as absences for attendance policy.
  Tardy - A student is tardy when s/he is not in class when the tardy bell rings.
  Unexcused absence - Any absence that is not excused by a parent or guardian.
  
  Absences
  A student is allowed no more than 10 absences, excused or unexcused per class per semester. After the 11th total absence in a class, the student will be placed on no-credit status, but should continue going to class. If the student has communicated an extenuating circumstance, it is possible he/she will have the chance to appeal at the end of the semester. It is imperative to communicate with the Attendance office extenuating circumstances.

• HOW TO REPORT AN ABSENCE
  Dial 480-575-2431
• After message and tone, please verbally state the following information:
  • Spell the student’s last name, then give the first name
  • The reason for the absence
  • Your relationship to the student
• The recording already gives us the following information so you do not need to:
  • Phone number
  • Date
  • Time

Please help us get your kids to school on time!  Let’s finish this year off strong.

Tardies in 1st period this week:

• Monday we had (67) 
• Tuesday was (91)
• Wednesday reached (104) - YIKES!
• Thursday we had (82)

To be on time, students need to be seated in class when the bell rings at 7:15 a.m. Walking through the gates at 7:15 means they are late.

Please help us reinforce the importance of arriving on time. Being punctual not only sets a positive tone for the day but also ensures uninterrupted learning for everyone.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Winter Athletic fees have been assessed to all rostered athletes. The fee will appear on your parent PowerSchools portal (desktop, not app) under "Student Fees and Payments".   If you wish to pay by tax credit,  information on how to do that is here.  Please note that we are a closed campus.  If you wish to pay in person, parents may visit the bookstore after school from 2:10-2:45pm.  Your student can make a payment in person at the bookstore before school, during lunch or after school.  The bookstore accepts checks, cash, credit cards and Apple Pay. 
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes!  They are doing great things! 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• November 27th -29th - Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
• November 30th  Deadline to get your senior Ad in the yearbook. NO EXCEPTIONS Senior AD Link
• December 9th Senior headshot picture due to Dorian Studios. NO EXCEPTIONS. If you do not get your picture in by this date it will not be included in the yearbook. 

Graduation Fee for Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians of the Class of 2025,

As we prepare for an exciting and memorable graduation season, I would like to share important information about a new graduation fee introduced for this year’s senior class.

With rising costs affecting many areas, including those associated with graduation, we appreciate your understanding and support in ensuring we can provide a meaningful experience for all our students. Last year, the Governing Board approved a $60 graduation fee for the Class of 2025.

This fee applies to all graduating seniors, including those who choose not to participate in the ceremony, as it supports essential components of the graduation process. Payments can be made online or at the school bookstore. We kindly request that this fee be paid no later than April 9, 2025. If you need assistance, please contact your school counselor.

We value your partnership as we work to make this milestone special for the Class of 2025. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continued support.

Updated Registration Dates for 25-26

The dates for registration have been changed a bit but registration will still be done by January 31. 

12/12 Incoming Freshman Presentation @ STMS

12/16 Counselors return to STMS for Course Selection

1/7 Incoming Seniors Presentation (by counselors in lecture hall) 

Course Selection on PowerSchool Window is TBD by counselors

1/13 Incoming Juniors Presentation (by counselors in lecture hall)

Course Selection on PowerSchool Window is TBD by counselors

1/21 Incoming Sophomores Presentation (by counselors in lecture hall)

Course Selection on PowerSchool Window is TBD by counselors

FAFSA Night

Save the date! Hear from CSHS counselors on how parents can help their students navigate the FAFSA application. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain insights and resources that can make a difference in their futures.

EVIT

Have you heard of EVIT? CSHS is proud to partner with the East Valley Institute of Technology, and we’re excited to tour the campus with a select group of students! See below for how to register.

PVCC

In case you missed our live presentation, we are excited to announce a virtual information session where we’ll be covering all the key details you need to know. 

Message From Our PTO

Hello CSHS Families,

This season of thanks, we’re raising funds to celebrate our dedicated teachers and staff who give so much to our students! With your help, we can provide them with a holiday lunch and gift cards in December, and more.

We’ve set a goal of $10,000, and if each family donates just $25 per student, we can make it happen. Every dollar helps!

Please Zelle donations to cshspto@gmail.com to ensure 100% of your gift goes to these appreciation events. You can also donate via PayPal on our website.

Thank you for helping us give back!

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Reminder, all schools and offices will be closed from November 27-29 for Thanksgiving break.  Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

At the November 19, 2024 Governing Board meeting, the Board tabled adopting a calendar and will be sending questions to administration for additional information. They also requested a list of options be brought for their consideration during the December 10 meeting.

For the past several months the CCUSD Facility Focus Group has been meeting to review current and future enrollment in the district, evaluate facility usage, and to evaluate current and future facility needs. At the upcoming special meeting of the CCUSD Governing Board, the Focus Group will be presenting their findings from the research, including recommendations for possible school closures, school boundary adjustments, and grade reconfiguration.  This presentation is only the first step in the process.  No action will be taken at this informational meeting.

The Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation (CCUEF) is excited to host the annual Run the District event on Saturday, January 25, 2025!  Join us for a fun and energizing run while supporting our amazing teachers.  For more information, go to: https://ccuef.org/run-the-district-5k/

Falcons Plan

• November 11th - Veterans Day (NO SCHOOL)
• November 27th -29th - Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
• Final exam days December 18th, 19th & 20th  - To ensure all students have the best possible testing environment with minimal distractions, we will NOT be calling students out of classes for early release. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Attendance Is Essential!

Regular attendance is the key to much of the success a student may gain from his/her school program. Students would remain out of school only when absolutely necessary, as much of the classroom activity cannot be made up. The benefit of lectures, discussion, and participation is lost forever to those who are absent. A doctor’s verification will be requested for excessive illness-related absences. All absences in excess of a cumulative 10% of the instructional days for the school year shall be reported to AZ Department of Education as unexcused.

Parent Notification
Parents will be contacted (by the auto dialer system) for all daily absences.

Excessive Absence/Tardy Procedures

● Students who reach eight (8) absences and/or tardies in one or more classes during any semester will be automatically placed on an attendance contract. 

● When a student has reached (10) absences they will be given an NC (no credit) in their class.

● If the student remains in the class and has no further unapproved absences, and is not involved in disciplinary or disruptive behavior, and is passing the class in all respects, he/she may petition for credit.

Loss Of Credit
(REF: Board Policy JH-R)
High school students may lose credit for any class in which they accumulate ten (10) absences during a semester. This accumulation includes excused and unexcused. The only exception to this rule will be when the administration decides that adequate evidence has been presented indicating an unusual circumstance, such as prolonged illness, requiring an accumulation beyond the maximum of ten (10) absences.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar.  Did you know that you can import  school & athletic calendars right to your phone?  Head to our website and click the "subscribe" button. Select the calendars you would like to import! 
• Winter Athletic fees will be assessed to rostered student(s) athlete accounts on Monday November 11th.  The fee will appear on your parent PowerSchools portal (desktop, not app) under "Student Fees and Payments".   If you wish to pay by tax credit,  information on how to do that is here.  Please note that we are a closed campus.  If you wish to pay in person, parents may visit the bookstore after school from 2:10-2:45pm.  Your student can make a payment in person at the bookstore before school, during lunch or after school.  The bookstore accepts checks, cash, credit cards and Apple Pay. 
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes!  They are doing great things! 

National Letter of Intent Day Ceremony 

• Please plan to join us on Wednesday November 13th, from 10:30-11:15am in our Blue Gym at CSHS to celebrate our athletes that will be committing to their college, furthering their athletic careers.  If you are  family of a student who has signed, and our department has not reached out to you, please email driolo@ccusd93.net for more information. 

Fall Athletic Team Results

Big congratulations to our fall athletic teams as some have completed their seasons and some are heading into play-offs!   We would like to honor:

• Girls Cross Country- 1st Place Region Champions and AIA Division II 3rd Place State Champions
• Boys Cross Country- 7th place at Regionals and 18th place at AIA Division II States
• Girls Golf- 1st Place AIA Division II State Champions 
• Boys Golf -8th Place at AIA Division II States
• Girls Volleyball- Currently ranked 12th. Advanced to States, game 1 is 11/7 @ Ironwood Ridge. Results pending at the time of this publication. 
• Dive- State Meet 11/7, results pending at the time of this publication 
• Swim- State Meet 11/8 and 11/9. Results pending at the time of this publication
• Football- Last in season game 11/8, play-in and state brackets pending at the time of this publication 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.

Message From Our PTO

Hello CSHS Families,

This season of thanks, we’re raising funds to celebrate our dedicated teachers and staff who give so much to our students! With your help, we can provide them with a Fall Treat in November, a holiday lunch and gift cards in December, and more.

We’ve set a goal of $10,000, and if each family donates just $25 per student, we can make it happen. Every dollar helps!

Please Zelle donations to cshspto@gmail.com to ensure 100% of your gift goes to these appreciation events. You can also donate via PayPal on our website.

Thank you for helping us give back!

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

• November 11th - Veterans Day (NO SCHOOL)
• November 27th -29th - Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
• Final exam days December 18th, 19th & 20th  - To ensure all students have the best possible testing environment with minimal distractions, we will NOT be calling students out of classes for early release. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar. 
• Boys & Girls Basketball, Wrestling, Softball and Baseball have started some open pre-season workouts. Please visit our sports pages on our website for more information and coach contact.  
• Please plan to join us on November 4th at 6pm to hear an amazing speaker, Paul Putnam deliver a wealth of information regurding the recruiting process.  You do not want to miss this!  
• Please like and follow us on Facebook!  Our handle is Cactus Shadows Falcons Athletics.  We would love for you to help us celebrate our amazing student athletes and team updates that we post!  They are doing great things! 

Winter Sports Information

• A mandatory meeting for all parents and student athletes that are interested in trying out for winter sports.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday October 29th from 5:00-6:30 in the Blue Gym.  Our Athletic Director, Mr. Gilmore will be presenting along with guest speaker,  AIA State Director of officials Brian Gessner. 
• In order to tryout, you must have cleared in Register My Athlete. Find more information here. 

National Letter of Intent Day Ceremony 

• Please plan to join us on Wednesday November 13th, from 10:30-11:15am in our Lecture Hall at CSHS to celebrate our athletes that will be committing to their college, furthering their athletic careers.  If you are a family of a student who has signed, and our department has not reached out to you, please email driolo@ccusd93.net for more information. 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• November 11th - Veterans Day (NO SCHOOL)
• November 27th -29th - Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)

Cactus Shadows Host Family Needed

We are seeking a kind and welcoming host family for two female international students starting in mid-December. Hosting students is a rewarding experience that offers many benefits. As a host family, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Share your culture and traditions while learning about others.
• Build lasting connections with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Enrich your family’s daily life with new perspectives and experiences.
• Make a meaningful impact on a student's educational journey.

If you are interested in learning more or becoming a host, please contact either Jill Sarraino at jsarraino@ccusd93.net or Lindsay Adams at Lindsey.adams@educatius.org

Open your home and heart – you can make a lasting difference!

 Parent & Community Forum: Teen Dating Violence

 Crystal Kazik spoke to parents from New Life Center on teen dating violence and sextortion. She emphasized the importance of recognizing early warning signs of abuse and exploitation in teen relationships, both online and offline.

Teen Dating Violence: Signs of dating violence often include behaviors where one partner tries to control or manipulate the other, such as isolating them from friends or family, being overly jealous, making decisions for them, or resorting to physical or emotional intimidation. Teens in such relationships may feel scared, isolated, or pressured into doing things they’re uncomfortable with. Healthy relationships, on the other hand, are marked by mutual respect, good communication, and maintaining individuality.

Sextortion:  Is a form of exploitation where online predators (or significant others) trick teens into sharing explicit content, often by pretending to be someone else. Once they obtain compromising material, they blackmail the victim for more content or money, using threats to ruin their reputation or harm them emotionally. Sextortion has become increasingly common, and many cases remain unreported due to embarrassment or fear. It’s essential for teens to understand the dangers of interacting with strangers online and for parents to have open conversations with them about internet safety.

All of the parent forums have many overlaps that include social media, mental health and substance use.

Teen Dating Violence Prevention

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• CCUSD Community Education
• Blueprint Education
• Brigham Young University Independent Study

All other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the 2nd Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

• October 15th - Falcon Feast, CSHS football field @ 5:45 PM (free for students)
• October 15th - Powder Puff Game (Sr. vs Jr.) CSHS football field @ 7:00 PM - 9th, 10th & 11th grade Royalty winners announced at halftime.
• October 18th - Homecoming Game 7:00PM, Falcon Football Field (Royalty Court and fireworks at halftime).
• October 19th - Homecoming Dance 8:00PM - 10:00PM

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar. 
• Boys & Girls Basketball, Wrestling, Softball and Baseball have started some open pre-season workouts. Please visit our sports pages on our website for more information and coach contact.  

Winter Sports Information

• A mandatory meeting for all parents and student athletes that are interested in trying out for winter sports.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday October 29th from 5:00-6:30 in the Blue Gym.  Our Athletic Director, Mr. Gilmore will be presenting along with guest speaker,  AIA State Director of officials Brian Gessner. 
• In order to tryout, you must have cleared in Register My Athlete. Find more information here. 

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• October 15th - Falcon Feast, CSHS Football Field @ 5:45 PM (Free for Students)
• October 15th - Powder Puff Game (Sr. vs Jr.) CSHS football field @ 7:00 PM.
• October 18th - Homecoming Game 7:00PM, Falcon Football Field (Royalty Court and fireworks at halftime).
• October 19th - Homecoming Dance 8:00PM - 10:00PM on the CCUSD district Office Field (60th street)
• Don't miss out on this year's Senior Farewell, happening right after graduation! Join us for a memorable celebration at Chicken N Pickle. For more details about this event, please click the link below:  Get More Information."

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• Blueprint Education
• ASU Prep Digital
• CCUSD Community Education

Any other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the second Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Around the District

Safety Update:  
CCUSD is branding our emergency communications. In case of a school emergency, the email subject line and start of text messages will say “CCUSD Safe”. With many forms of communication that come home throughout the day from our campuses, our hope is that you recognize and open up the “CCUSD Safe” email right away. In addition, we will  communicate all drills to you as we practice for any emergency that might happen, those emails will be coming from “CCUSD Safe - Drill”.

Falcons Plan

• Fall Break - No school September 30th - October 4th.

Student IDs' On Campus

As we approach fall break, I know we're all excited for some well-deserved rest. Before we go, I wanted to send a quick reminder to talk with your student about the importance of wearing their school IDs.

We’ve all worked hard this first quarter to make wearing IDs part of the routine for both students and staff, and it's essential that we continue this practice when we return from break. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and wearing IDs allows us to easily identify who should and shouldn’t be on campus.

Please remind your student that when they return to campus on 10/7, IDs must be worn around their necks at all times during the school day. Let’s keep the great habits we’ve built going strong!

Thank you for your support and have a wonderful fall break!

Attendance Matters!

CSHS students were absent a total of 1,418 days in August and a total of 1,396 days in September.  Falcons, let ‘s try to get under 1,000 for October (it's a week shorter)!

Did you know that missing just two days of school per month means a child misses 10% of the school year?

Research shows there is a direct relationship between student achievement and absences. In Cave Creek Unified, our goal is to partner with families to make sure students are in school.

What you can do:

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day

• Help your student maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep

• Try not to schedule appointments during the school day

• If your student must stay home because they are sick, make sure they have asked teachers for resources and materials to make up fo the missed learning time in the classroom.

• Check your student’s attendance on Power School to be sure absences are not adding up.

Student Event Conduct

Hey Falcons!

Just a quick reminder from the CSHS Administration: whether you're at a dance, football game, theater performance, or any other school event, our school rules still apply.

These events are all about having fun and making great memories, so let's keep them safe for everyone. Remember, bringing or using inappropriate substances is not allowed, and any student under the influence will face the same consequences as during the school day.

Also, a lot of families, including younger kids, come out to enjoy our events too. Let’s show them how awesome our Falcon community is by keeping things positive and respectful.

Thanks for your help in making every event great!

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar. 
• Boys & Girls Basketball, Wrestling, Softball and Baseball have started some open pre-season workouts. Please visit our sports pages on our website for more information and coach contact. 
• It's hard to believe we are only 6 weeks away from Winter sports!  In order to tryout, you must have cleared in Register My Athlete. More information here. 

Falcon Feast

This year there are some exciting changes in store for the Falcon Feast and Fireworks event at Cactus Shadows! The Feast is moving to Tuesday of Homecoming Week and will precede the Powder Puff game.  As in years past, the Feast is a free event for students. To help CSHS offset the cost of the hotdog & corn roast, please consider donating food supplies. We are very appreciative of any and all donations. Any extran non-perishable  items will be used at the homecoming dance. The fireworks portion of the event is being moved to the Homecoming game for all to enjoy.

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Donated items can be dropped off at the Cactus Shadows main office October 7th - 11th. Thank you!

Falcon Feast Food Item Donation Sign-up

Any questions? Please contact Allison Zilka at azilka@ccusd93.net

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• October 7th - Josten's senior meeting will take place in the lecture hall during Econ/Gov. If your student does not have Econ/Gov, they should attend during their 1st-hour class.
• October 11th - Senior picture retake day. Please click here to schedule your students picture time. Once you have received your confirmation  remind your student to arrive at the CSHS library at their scheduled time.
• Don't miss out on this year's Senior Farewell, happening right after graduation! Join us for a memorable celebration at Chicken N Pickle. For more details about this event, please click the link below:  Get More Information."

PSAT Information

PSAT - for registered students only.  We are no longer able to take registrations.  

The PSAT is on Wednesday, October 9th in the gray gym.  Registration starts at 7:15am.

To ensure a smooth testing experience, we ask that you please review the following information with your child:

• Chromebooks: All students must bring a fully charged Chromebook to school on the day of the exam.

• Calculators: Students may bring an approved calculator from the attached list.

• Chargers: Students may also bring a charger for their Chromebook in case it's needed during the day.

• Snacks and Water: Students may bring a small snack and a water bottle to have at their desks during breaks.

• Prohibited Items: Please note that students are not allowed to have airpods/headphones, cellphones, or any other electronic devices unless it is an approved accommodation listed in their IEP or 504 plan.

On the morning of the test, all students will meet in the gray gym for check-in starting at 7:15 am until 7:40 am. It is essential that students arrive on time, as the exam will begin promptly at 7:45 am.  Once testing is complete, students will resume their regular class schedule.

Please note that there will not be a make-up day for the PSAT if a student is absent on October 9th.

If you have any questions or concerns about this exam, please contact Robert Morgan at rmorgan@ccusd93.net or Christy Pine at cpine@ccusd93.net for assistance.

Thank you for your attention, and we wish all students the best on their PSAT!

Important Reminder About Safe Driving

Keeping our students safe is always our top priority, both on and off campus. We want to remind everyone about the importance of driving safely and responsibly, especially around our school.

Reckless driving is extremely dangerous and can result in severe consequences. Please have a discussion with your student about following the speed limit, being cautious around pedestrians, and taking their time when driving.

Additionally, we have police officers who regularly patrol both our campus and the surrounding areas. They will pull over and ticket anyone driving recklessly, and in serious cases, there is a risk of arrest. We absolutely do not want this for any of our students.

Please remember: safe driving helps protect everyone. Let’s work together to keep our community safe.

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• Blueprint Education
• ASU Prep Digital
• CCUSD Community Education

Any other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the second Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

Falcons Plan

• Fall Break - No school September 30th - October 4th.

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar. 
• Boys & Girls Basketball, Wrestling, Softball and Baseball have started some open pre-season workouts. Please visit our sports pages on our website for more information and coach contact. 
• It's hard to believe we are only 6 weeks away from Winter sports!  In order to tryout, you must have cleared in Register My Athlete. More information here. 

Don't Miss Our First Varsity Home Football Game Tonight!

We’re excited to invite you to our first varsity home football game!

Please see the link that provides a map with the parking and student drop-off routes for all home varsity football games. Take a moment to review it, especially if you plan to drop off a student at the game or do not plan to purchase reserved parking.  VarsityFootballParking2025.pdf

Great news! Reserved parking passes are still available in the Fine Arts Center parking lot, valid for all home games this season. You can order yours today using the link below, and once purchased, you can pick it up at the Cactus Shadows Front Office.

Football Parking

We look forward to seeing you at the game!

Clear Bag Guidelines

Falcon Fans!

We wanted to take a moment to remind everyone about CCUSD’s new clear bag guidelines. These guidelines have been put in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Please take a moment to review them before tonight's game, so everyone is prepared and ready to have a great time!

Thank you for your cooperation, and as always—Go Falcons!

Please click HERE to read through the guidelines.

2025 National Merit Scholarship Program

The principal, Sarah Barela, of Cactus Shadows High School, announced today that Maya Angorn, Jakob Duffey, Aveeva Mirchandani,and Mia Quenzler have been named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Programs.  

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise.  Although they will not continue in the 2025 competition for the National Merit Scholarship Awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT)

“Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” commented a spokesperson for NMSC. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their school plays in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.  We hope this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”

Homecoming Parade & Float Building – Get Involved!

The homecoming buzz is in the air, and we are excited to announce the return of our Homecoming Parade! As we all know, it takes a village to make these events a success, and that's where you come in.

We will be hosting a Student & Parent Informational Meeting on Monday, September 23rd at 6:00 PM in the Lecture Hall. If you're interested in volunteering your time to help build homecoming floats, we encourage you to attend! The meeting will cover important details about dates, times, and, of course, the parade theme. All floats will be housed and decorated on CCUSD property, after school. This is a great opportunity to show off your creativity and make lasting memories with your student.

Each float will be judged in a class competition for a chance to win half-off tickets to the Winter Formal (Hoopcoming), the Spirit Stick, and of course, bragging rights!

Below is the timeline for our float build:

• Haul In & First Day of Decoration: Monday, October 7th from 4 PM – 6 PM
• Decorating Days: October 8th – 11th from 4 PM – 6 PM
• Final Decorating Days: October 14th, 16th, and 17th from 4 PM – 7 PM

Parade Information:
The parade will take place in the morning prior to the homecoming assembly. We’ll also keep the school spirit alive with a smaller version of the parade during halftime at the homecoming game. It's going to be an exciting event, and we can't wait to have you join us!

Hope to see you there!

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• October 7th - Josten's senior meeting will take place in the lecture hall during Econ/Gov. If your student does not have Econ/Gov, they should attend during their 1st-hour class.
• October 11th - Senior picture retake day. Please have your student arrive at the CSHS library at their scheduled time.
• Don't miss out on this year's Senior Farewell, happening right after graduation! Join us for a memorable celebration at Chicken N Pickle. For more details about this event, please click the link below:  Get More Information."

Upcoming Counseling Events

• 9/23 Juniors presentation by counseling department
• 9/24 Evit Presentation: All sophomores will attend presentation in the Fine Arts Center at 10:30 AM
• 9/25 United States Army Lunchtime visit with students
• 9/26 Coffee with the Counselors: Juniors
• 10/9 PSAT for Sophomores, Doors open at 7:15 AM

Does your student need extra help? 

Grand Canyon University offers free tutoring, check out their website and FAQ for more information

Important Reminder About Safe Driving

Keeping our students safe is always our top priority, both on and off campus. We want to remind everyone about the importance of driving safely and responsibly, especially around our school.

Reckless driving is extremely dangerous and can result in severe consequences. Please have a discussion with your student about following the speed limit, being cautious around pedestrians, and taking their time when driving.

Additionally, we have police officers who regularly patrol both our campus and the surrounding areas. They will pull over and ticket anyone driving recklessly, and in serious cases, there is a risk of arrest. We absolutely do not want this for any of our students.

Please remember: safe driving helps protect everyone. Let’s work together to keep our community safe.

Why is it important to take rigorous courses like physics?

Colleagues: A question came up on the Tucson Alliance of Physics Teachers (TAPT) listserv. Some high schoolers don't see any point in taking physics, if they don't intend to major in physics in college. High school physics is optional, for college entrance. Thus I asked Joe Foy of the ASU Barrett Honors College to reply with a statement that I can post. The question is: for students who don't plan to major in physics, to what extent does taking high school PHYSICS give Barrett College applicants an advantage over applicants who don't take it?

Response: There is no magic admission committee number or score anyone on the admission committees attaches specifically to physics or any other course. However, we at Barrett agree that physics, particularly AP physics, is among the most intellectually rigorous high school courses a student can take. We on the admission committee carefully review an applicant’s high school transcript not merely for grades but to see what courses the applicant took in high school. Taking challenging courses like AP physics weighs heavily in an applicant’s favor.
 
Those not planning to major in physics may wish to know the benefits of this challenging course. For one, it is the foundational science for other branches of science. Chemistry, astronomy, and even biology are subjects that build on physics. A mastery of physics can be highly useful to future engineers, chemists, chemical engineers, biologists, and bioengineers. Second, physics introduces students to logical and empirical interrogations of nature that serve as a valuable model for approaching any subject. Perhaps it is unsurprising that the great philosopher Immanuel Kant began his career as a physicist before turning to philosophy!
 
Thirdly, the study of physics itself offers genuine intellectual and cultural benefits. The attempt to understand the fundamental laws of nature has influenced philosophy, literature, music, and art in both obvious and subtle ways. For instance, the work of Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton strongly impacted Enlightenment-era thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Voltaire, David Hume, and Immanuel Kant. Even Jonathan Swift’s satire of Newton and the Royal Society in the “Flying Island of Laputa” episode from Gulliver’s Travels is a testament to the cultural impact of physics.
 
As a member of the Barrett Admissions Committee, I actively look for signs of an applicant’s intellectual curiosity and willingness to take risks. I am more impressed by someone earning a “B” in physics or a demanding literature course than an “A” in a less rigorous course. This is because these qualities often indicate a student's potential for growth and success in college and beyond.
 
Sincerely, J.P. Foy
PhD Physics and Astronomy
Teaching Professor in Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• Blueprint Education
• ASU Prep Digital
• CCUSD Community Education

Any other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the second Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

AZ Lion's Vision and Hearing Foundation-information. If your family needs eye care or vision services, and does not have health insurance, please contact our Health Office

Insurance Link

CCUEF’s Golf the District Tournament

New this year, it's hosted indoors at TeeBox indoor golf club, and there will be a family night portion. The school who brings the most people gets a reward. Please click the link for more information.  https://ccuef.org/golf-the-district/

Around the District

This year, we will be notifying you each time we conduct a drill on campus. Not only does this keep you informed about what is happening, but it also helps us train and prepare our students and staff by practicing procedures in case a real emergency occurs.

Below are the different drills we will be practicing this year. These procedures have been taught to all of our students:

• Hold: Students and staff remain in classrooms, out of access areas, while teachers continue teaching.

  • Why would we have a hold? A medical emergency or a fight on campus.

• Secure: Everyone moves into classrooms or buildings, and exterior access points are locked. Teachers continue teaching, and students may or may not transition between classes, depending on the situation.

  • Why would we secure campus? Criminal activity in the neighborhood or a dangerous animal on campus.

• Evacuate: Students and staff move from one location to another for safety.

  • Why would we evacuate? Fire, mechanical failure, gas leak, or bomb threat.

• Shelter: Students and staff remain in classrooms and prepare for further instructions.

  • Why shelter? Severe weather or a hazardous materials situation.

• Lockdown: All doors are locked, windows are covered, and everyone remains quiet.

  • Why lockdown? A threat or hazard inside the school, or an act of violence on campus.

Please visit our CCUSD safety website for more information.  

Falcons Plan

• National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)? Their annual conference in PHX is on Sept. 15th at 11am-3pm at the Phoenix Convention Center. This is a fantastic opportunity for our juniors and seniors to attend to help with college planning/applying. Click here to register for NACAC

Senior Corner

• Senior year can get busy real fast! We encourage you to stay organized and on top of your schedule with the Senior Timeline. Click the link  to stay informed about upcoming events and important deadlines.
• Please note that dates and times are subject to change. We will notify parents of any updates.
• Senior pictures are fast approaching! If you haven't scheduled your picture time with Dorian Studios yet, please do so as soon as possible—spaces are filling up quickly. Click the link to schedule your time.

• Senior Picture Days:
  Thursday, September 12th & Friday, September 13th

• Don't miss out on this year's Senior Farewell, happening right after graduation! Join us for a memorable celebration at Chicken N Pickle. For more details about this event, please click the link below:  Get More Information."

   

Falcon Athletics

• Falcon sports schedules can be found on our sports webpages as well as our school's calendar. 
• Our first home varsity football game is right around the corner!  Secure your parking spot in the FAC parking lot now. Click here and scroll down to "2024 Season Parking Passes".  You will see a Purchase button under "General Parking".  ALL parking at the FAC will require a parking pass.

Upcoming dates for Coffee with the Counselors

Please save the following dates on your calendar.

9/20 9AM-10AM Sophomores

9/26 9AM -10AM Juniors

All events will take place in the Lecture Hall. Please arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time to check in to our new visitor system.

Counseling Corner

College and military representatives will be visiting CSHS during lunch hour. We are excited to welcome Arizona State University on September 16 and the United States Marine Corps on September 18. If you're interested in learning more, please reach out to Crystal Gallardo in the College and Career Center for additional information.

Lisa Strohman

We were fortunate enough to have Lisa Strohman present to parents on the topic "Technology Talks: Mental Health, AI, and Deep Fakes." If you were unable to attend the presentation or would like to watch it again, please click the link below to view this insightful session.

Technology Talks

Transfer Credit: Online Providers

For all students planning to take a course online during the school year, please note the following:

During the school year, CSHS will accept courses from the following programs:

• Blueprint Education
• ASU Prep Digital
• CCUSD Community Education

Any other platforms must be approved by a counselor. Additionally, students must get a prior approval form signed by their school counselor prior to taking any online course. 

Seniors Proof of Completion:
Official proof of course completion must be received by the Registrar by the last day of school in April. Seniors who do not complete their courses by this date will be placed on the non-graduate list, with appeals made to the Assistant Principal.

Freshmen-Juniors Proof of Completion:
Official transcripts from completed courses must be received by the Registrar by the second Friday of May to be included on the Spring semester transcript.

Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance

Information for Voluntary Student Accident and Sickness Insurance plans for purchase including plans for athletics can be found below.

Insurance Link

CCUEF’s Golf the District Tournament

New this year, it's hosted indoors at TeeBox indoor golf club, and there will be a family night portion. The school who brings the most people gets a reward. Please click the link for more information.  https://ccuef.org/golf-the-district/

Calendar Survey

CCUSD Families- We value your feedback! Thank you to all of you who have already completed the calendar survey that was emailed and text messaged to you on Wednesday, September 4. If you have not already completed it, please click here to give us your feedback. You will need your student's ID number. The survey closes on Wednesday, September 11. You can submit one survey per student.

Parent Calendar Survey

Every three years, the Cave Creek Unified School District reviews the current calendar and researches other calendar concepts to benefit our students and school community. We are currently exploring three different calendar concepts that each have unique benefits for our students and community. At this time, no decision has been made. We know that the school calendar affects our employees and your feedback is important. Please read each of the descriptions below, and rate them on how well they support your family’s needs. The survey will be open September 4-11. The innovative calendar focus group, composed of CCUSD parents and CCUSD employees, will review responses to guide their next steps in creating a viable calendar for the next three years. CCUSD Leadership will propose a calendar to the Governing Board in November so that you can plan for the upcoming school years. 

Please note:

• All of the calendar concepts will adhere to the state-required number of student instructional minutes per school year. 

• CCUSD will continue to offer affordable, high-quality child care for working parents during days off or extended breaks.

• The survey is not anonymous because we only want feedback from families of current students at this time. Please complete no more than one survey per CCUSD student.

Falcons Plan

• Dual Enrollment Information Night - Wednesday, August 28th 5:30PM-6:30PM - WEBEX VIRTUAL MEETING
• National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)? Their annual conference in PHX is on Sept. 15th at 11am-3pm at the Phoenix Convention Center. This is a fantastic opportunity for our juniors and seniors to attend to help with college planning/applying. Click here to register for NACAC

PSAT

The PSAT/ NMSQ will be on October 9, 2024 in the Grey Gym at CSHS, cost is $30.  The doors will open at 7:15am and test will start promptly at 8:00.  The test is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes with breaks.  We will be done by 11:30am.  The students will attend their last period.

Registration for PSAT is a 2 step process.  

1) Register by using this link (It works now!!)

2) Pay the $30 exam fee on PowerSchool Parent Portal (this works now too!)

HOW TO MAKE A PAYMENT FOR PSAT

Please complete the Google form in full. The registration will close on August 30th

Please contact Christy Pine if you have questions about financial assistance or details about the test.

There are no refunds for PSAT exams, so please register carefully.

*Accommodation requests should be channeled through the counseling department

First Day of School

Monday, August 5, 2024

We encourage you to continue checking your email for updates. You will receive more information about Chromebook checkout forms, insurance, and instructions on making your course fee payments online. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.