Helix Handbook 2008-2009.pub - Helix Parent-Teacher-Student ...

HELIX CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL 

A California Distinguished School 

PARENT 

Handbook 

2008—2009 

Foothills Council PTA - 9th District Inc., CCPTS 

7323 University Avenue 

La Mesa, California 91941 

644-1940 

To report a students absence call 

ext. 231 for 9th & 12th grades and ext. 232 for 10th & 11th 

Visit our website at: www.helixcharter.net

PTSA 

GREETINGS FROM YOUR PTSA PRESIDENT 

Dear Helix HS Parents/Guardians and Students, 

On behalf of the Parent, Teacher and Student Association (PTSA), I would like to extend 

an enthusiastic welcome to our incoming and continuing Helix families! Helix 

continues a proud tradition of providing an outstanding learning environment for our 

diverse student population, as was evidently shown in a 2008 US World News report. 

We are blessed with remarkable leadership and commitment from Helix’s Executive 

Director, grade level principals, staff, teachers and parents/guardians. In the past 

year, we have accomplished a lot and made Helix an even better institution for you and 

our students to be proud to call “your school.” However, to continue and maintain 

Helix Charter HS as an illustrious and innovating institution, we will need your 

help and involvement. How For as little as $10.00 per person, you and your student 

can join PTSA. Your level of involvement is up to you. But know that you will 

have an easy way to stay informed about what’s happening on campus and you can be a 

part of what’s happening! High school is exciting, and sometimes challenging for the 

whole family. Fortunately, there are many resources for you to rely on, such as PTSA… 

and we are here to provide one of those foundations for you and your family. We will 

keep you informed of the key activities/events at school, plus add some fun along the 

way! Please mark your calendar and join us for our first Association meeting on 

Wednesday, August 13 at 6 pm in Gym. I am again honored to serve as your 2008-09 

PTSA President and I ask that you please feel free to contact me if you have any ideas 

to share, or if you have any questions/concerns that PTSA could help with. You can 

reach me by email at ryslas2@mail.sdsu.edu or ryslas@sbcglobal.net. With your support, 

I know that we would continue to build a warm, caring and outstanding community 

at Helix! Again, welcome to the Helix Family and visit our web site often! 

Kind Regards, 

Robert Yslas, Jr. 

MY CHILD’S ID # ________________ 

TERM 1 FIRST QUARTER SECOND QUARTER 

PERIOD 1 

HELIX CHARTER 

MISSION: Helix Charter High School is dedicated to preparing all students to 

graduate as highly literate, vocationally aware, life long learners. All graduates 

will gain confidence and self-worth as a direct result of the Helix learning experience. 

Graduates will be empowered to take increasing responsibility in 

their educational direction and academic success. All students will be prepared 

with the skills necessary for success in college and adulthood. 

The Helix Governing Board sets school policy. Notification of meetings is 

posted in the front office of the school. Meetings are open to the public in accordance 

with the Brown Act. 

The Board consists of the following: 

Cathy Singer, Certificated Staff and Chairman 

Gifford Asimos, Certificated Staff 

Peggy Crabtree, Classified Staff and Board Secretary 

Keith Johnson, Parent-at-Large Member 

Julie Damschen, Certificated Staff 

Mimi Test, Community Representative 

Dori Zabriskie, PTSA Representative 

Brian Kick, Community Representative 

Ed Aceves, Community Representative 

Nate Howard, Chanelle McNutt, Student Representatives 

Doug Smith, Executive Director 

PERIOD 2 

PERIOD 3 

PERIOD 4 

TERM 2 THIRD QUARTER FOURTH QUARTER 

PERIOD 1 

PERIOD 2 

PERIOD 3 

Every effort has been made to ensure that accurate 

information and dates were included in this 

handbook. Because there may be changes during 

the school year, we ask you to double check on 

important dates, read flyers and newsletters coming 

home and check the updated webpage that 

would include any changes that may occur. 

PERIOD 4 

1 

18

HELIX CALENDAR 2008-2009 

August 6 School Begins – First day of Quarter 1 

13 Back to School Night 

20 Parent Shadow Day 

September 1 Labor Day Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

8 Progress Report Grades Due – Quarter 1 

13 Saturday Parent / Teacher Conference Day 

22 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL 

October 8,9 Final Exam Schedule–Quarter 1 

10 INTERSESSION 

13 First day of Quarter 2 

November 10 Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

11 Veteran’s Day – NO SCHOOL 

12 Progress Reports Grades Due – Quarter 2 

24-28 Thanksgiving Break – NO SCHOOL 

December 18,19 Final Exam Schedule–Quarter 2 


23-31 Winter Break - NO SCHOOL (Return Jan. 7th) 

January 1-5 Winter Break – NO SCHOOL 

6 Staff Development Day – NO SCHOOL 


14 Back to School Night 

19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day – NO SCHOOL 

21 Parent Shadow Day 

February 3,4 CAHSEE 

9 Progress Report Grades Due—Quarter 3 

13 Lincoln’s Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

16 Washington’s Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

21 Saturday Parent / Teacher Conference Day 

March 12,13 Final Exam Schedule—Quarter 3 


17-27 Spring Break 


April 10 Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

9 Progress Report Grades Due—Quarter 4 

All Month STAR Testing 

May 13 Spring Fling 

25 Memorial Day Holiday – NO SCHOOL 

26,27 Senior Boards—Minimum Days 

28 Senior Awards 

June 3,4 Final Exam Schedule—Quarter 4 

4 Graduation 6 p.m. 


For PTSA meeting dates and times see page 6 under General Information 

Dates subject to change—watch for info in the newsletter and daily bulletin 

17 

PTSA 

PTSA OFFICERS 

President.........................................................Robert Yslas 

Executive Vice President ............................ Maureen Orey 

First VP of Programs....................................... Ron Asbury 

Second VP of Communication................................. OPEN 

Third VP of Ways and Means.......................John Gillihan 

Recording Secretary .................................. Lauren Gillihan 

Corresponding Secretary............................. Dori Zabriskie 

Treasurer ................................................... Theresa Toilolo 

Auditor .......................................................Annette Sciarra 

Historian.................................................Mary Aquiningoc 

Parliamentarian ............................................Keith Johnson 

CHAIRMEN 

Hospitality................................................................ OPEN 

Legislation................................................................ OPEN 

Membership ...................................................Dalene Early 

Reflections ............................................................... OPEN 

SAT Prep................................................... Catherine Yslas 

Scholarships ............................................................. OPEN 

Voter Registration ....................................... Dori Zabriskie 

Campus Pride .......................................... Tiffany LeBruno 

Concessions Buyer.....................................Tina Dasilveira 

DAC Representative................................................. OPEN 

Founder’s Day.......................................................... OPEN 

Grad Night......................................Theresa, Mary & Gena 

Health and Safety ...........................................Maria Loyon 

Newsletter .......................................................Gena Doane 

Parent Handbook.......................... Suzanne Koppman-Gue 

Tickets-Football .......................................... Felicia Houser 

Executive Director ....................................Dr. Doug Smith 

Board Directory........................................................ OPEN 

2008—2009 HELIX HIGH PTSA GOAL 

To enhance communication between school, home and community. 

DAILY BULLETIN ONLINE 

Visit Helix website and “click” on daily bulletin. 

Check the Parent Section of the bulletin which is updated daily. 

2

HELIX CHARTER PTSA PROGRAMS 

Parent/Community Outreach: Invite all families and community members 

to actively volunteer in PTSA and school activities. Actively support the 

Helix Community Outreach Program that provides Town Hall Meetings and 

visitations by teachers to the homes of students and their families. Improve 

school and community interaction by supporting activities that invite community 

participation. Coordinate with Staff outreach coordinator and perform 

parent information meetings. 

Election of Parent at-large Member of Governing Board: Responsibility 

of parliamentarian to hold election in February. 

Parent Communication: Provide empowering information through the 

Parent Handbook, Helix Hi-Lites, PTSA bulletin and the PTSA website. 

Human Relations: Collaborate with ASB, GUHSD and various community 

agencies to ensure a school and community environment that promotes the 

appreciation of similarities and differences among all people. 

Sports Events Tickets: Sell tickets for Helix sporting events 

HELIX CHARTER PTSA CHAIR POSITIONS 

Concessions: Maintain a snack bar with food and volunteers to sell at home 

football games. Level of commitment required: Over 25 hours per year 

Grad Night: Provide an alcohol and drug free community supported celebration 

after Graduation (historically, more students are killed in drunk driving 

accidents on this date than any other). Encourage parent participation in class 

specific fund-raising activities throughout the students’ high school career. 

Level of commitment required: Over 25 hours per year. 

Hospitality: Sponsor a BBQ dinner at the Spring Fling Open House and 

Freshman Orientation, coordinate cakes for Senior Awards and Founders Day, 

host Back to School Luncheon for staff. Encourage parent involvement, volunteers 

and donation of goods for above. Level of commitment required: 10-20 

hours per year. 

Health & Safety: Coordinate and collaborate with school and community to 

educate and improve health and safety on campus. Create and support activities 

that endorse a tobacco, drug and alcohol free life style. Improve support 

for teen mental health by co-sponsoring with ASB the Yellow Ribbon Suicide 

Prevention Program. Increase awareness of health programs available to teens 

and families. Level of commitment required: 10-20 hours per year. 

Legislation/Voter Registration: Inform PTSA members of PTA positions 

on pending legislation as well as candidate positions on issues related to children 

and education. Create and support a campaign for voter registration 

among seniors. Level of commitment required: 10-20 hours per year. 

3 

TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS 

Name Extension 

Community Liaison ...............................444 

Computer Room ....................................289 

Duplicating ............................................291 

ExL ........................................................235 

Finance Office .......................................455 

Fling/School Paper ................................327 

Girls P.E. ...............................376, 377, 379 

Graphic Arts ..........................................344 

H.O.P. Office.........................................375 

Library ...................................................162 

Little Theater .........................................366 

Lockout..................................................451 

Maintenance ..........................................156 

Manager School Facilities .....................151 

Nurse .....................................................271 

Pool Deck ..............................................181 

Principal/Executive Director .........111, 112 

Psychologist...........................................421 

Registrar ................................................221 

Room 1300 ............................................454 

School Police.........................................290 

Science Lab ...........................................381 

Speech Therapist....................................431 

Student Store .........................................208 

Study Hall..............................................454 

Switchboard...............................................0 

Weight Room.........................................378 

Yearbook ...............................................341 

DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL NUMBERS 

District Office.............. 644-8000 West Hills ....................956-0400 

Grossmont.................... 668-6000 Chaparral......................258-3740 

El Cajon....................... 401-4300 Steele Canyon ..............660-7100 

Mt. Miguel................... 644-8400 Valhalla........................593-5300 

El Capitan .................... 443-1081 Helix Adult School ......644-3555 

Granite Hills ................ 593-5500 Helix Fax Number........462-9266 

Monte Vista ................. 660-9902 Drivers Ed....................401-4125 

Santana ........................ 448-5500 Human Resources ........644-8020 

Credit Union ................ 588-1515 GEA .............................460-3465 

Payroll ......................... 644-8065 Special Ed ....................644-8115 

Transportation.............. 644-8186 

16 

Extensions are subject 

to change. 

If you’d prefer to email 

teachers, all email address 

consist of the first letter of 

their first name and the first 

six letters of their last name 

followed by 

@helixcharter.net 

For example name: 

Pamela Singleton 

Email address: 

psingle@helixcharter.net


Name Extension Voice Mail 

Slusher, Jennifer ................................... 395 

Smith, Doug.......................................... 111 

Starr, Troy............................................. 130 

Stone, Ben............................................. 391 

Succa, Susan ......................................... 445 

Sullivan, Linda...................................... 152 

Sutton, Richard ..................................... 389 

Swecker, James..................................... 211 

Takahashi, Jason................................... 332 

Texler, Jason......................................... 443 

Theroux, Frank ..................................... 136 

Thomason, Trampus ............................. 441 

Tota, Alicia ................................................. ................................................513 

Trevino, Paula Ann............................... 122 

Tyler, Cheryl............................................... ................................................726 

Urich, Joan............................................ 123 

Van Buren, Amanda ................................... ................................................718 

Vanderpot, John.................................... 327 

Van Hook, Donnie................................ 378 

Villegas, Arica ...................................... 144 

Weber, Julie.......................................... 339 

Weber, Todd ......................................... 388 

Weiss, Kacey ........................................ 113 

Wenham, Jeff........................................ 127 

Whiteing, Doris......................................... 0 

Wimmer Colleen................................... 271 

Wu-Walden, Yuchiao ................................. ................................................757 

Wylie, Lenelle ...................................... 398 

Yee, Danielle ........................................ 227 

Zoumaras, Claudia................................ 176 

Adult School................................ 644-3555 

ASB ...................................................... 243 

Grade Level Prin.........123, 124, 152 & 145 

Athletic Trainer..................................... 206 

Attendance.....................................231, 232 

Band...................................................... 351 

Book Clerk............................................ 148 

Boys P.E. ......................................372, 371 

Cafeteria................................................ 171 

Career Center........................................ 148 

Choir ..................................................... 356 

15 

Campus Pride: Coordinate with clubs and community to improve campus 

safety, appearance and promote environmental awareness. Level of commitment 

required: Under 10 hours per year. 

Founders Day, Honorary Service & Benton Hart Awards: Celebrate 

the Anniversary of PTA, honor outstanding volunteer service and honor outstanding 

teaching at Helix High School. Level of commitment required: Under 

10 hours per year. 

Reflections: Promote the National PTA Reflections art program. Level of 

commitment required: Under 10 hours per year. 

SAT Preparation: In partnership with the AVID program, provide evening 

workshops at Helix for students to prepare for the SAT exams. Level of commitment 

required: Under 10 hours per year. 

Scholarships: Award at least three scholarships, including inspirational and 

vocational. Level of commitment required: Under 10 hours per year. 

HELIX HIGHLANDER PLEDGE 

Helix is a college preparatory charter high school dedicated to supporting each 

student in the attainment of his or her highest academic potential. The educational 

focus is designed to foster each individual’s capacity for selfdevelopment 

and personal responsibility that will prepare students for success 

in college, career, and adult life. Helix recognizes that a student’s education is 

a responsibility shared by school and family during the entire period the students 

spends in school. 

As faculty and staff we pledge to: 

♦ Create a welcoming environment for students, parents and community 

members; 

♦ Provide a safe campus and a classroom climate of mutual respect; 

♦ Clearly delineate course expectations, competencies and standards, instructional 

goals, and grades to students and parents, providing ample opportunities 

for students to complete course work and competencies to standard; 

♦ Provide motivating and interesting learning experiences for students, using 

a variety of teaching methods in the classroom which support the Helix Exit 

Results 

♦ Address the individual needs of each student and effectively facilitate student 

learning; 

♦ Communicate with parents / guardians regularly through telephone, letters, 

parent-teacher conferences, open houses, community-based meetings, updated 

web sites or home visits; 

♦ Provide parents with support to help develop parenting skills which emphasize 

the importance of education and learning, provide strategies and techniques 

for assisting students with learning activities at home and/or programs, 

family practices and student learning and development; 

♦ Provide the opportunity for parental involvement in school decision-making 

through Restructuring and other avenues. 

4

As a student I pledge to: 

♦ Attend school daily, with all necessary materials, prepared to work and engage 

in learning; 

♦ Be tobacco, drug, and alcohol free at school; 

♦ Complete coursework and course competencies to standard, retake courses 

failed which are necessary for graduation, and complete work necessary to 

bring incomplete grades to passing; 

♦ Uphold the Helix Behavior and Dress Codes, along with the academic honesty 

and integrity policies; 

♦ Attend summer registration, use Helix academic support when needed or assigned; 

♦ Maintain a G.P.A. of 2.0 or above. 

As a parent/guardian I : 

♦ Attend the summer registration conferences and other requested conferences; 

♦ Provide accurate and updated contact information (changed phone numbers, 

address, etc.); 

♦ Contact Helix regarding any concerns about my son / daughter; 

♦ Support the Helix Behavior and Dress Codes, along with the academic honesty 

and integrity policies; 

♦ Ensure my son / daughter has a home environment which supports student academic 

success by providing a healthy diet and adequate sleep, and by limiting 

outside school responsibilities (i.e., work hours); 

♦ Ensure my son / daughter is at school on time every day; 

♦ Ensure my son / daughter attends school free of tobacco, drugs, and alcohol; 

♦ Support student activities through Helix PTSA membership and/or involvement; 

♦ Volunteer, attend school activities, participate in parent visitation days whenever 

possible; 

♦ Participate in community-based, parent-teacher forums or periodic home visits. 

SCHOOL COMMITTEES 

Restructuring Committee Chairs .............................. Julie Damschen 

Meetings every 2nd Tuesday, room 1415 at 3:00 p.m. 

School-To-Career Focus Group.......................................Giff Asimos 

TBA 

Budget Committee Chairs........................ Jeff Babbitt, Damon Chase 

Call for meeting dates and times 

Paul Messier 

CLASS ADVISORS 

Freshman.........................................................................................TBA 

Sophomore ............ Paula Ann Trevino, Beth Leighton, Dianne Beltran 

Junior .................................................................................Jaime Kahler 

Senior.............................................................................Michele Berray 

5 



Meza-Jackson, Brenda...........................525 

Milburn, Renee ......................................259 

Miranda, Martha ....................................208 

Moretti, Christine ..................................355 

Morgan, Ann..........................................431 

Morris, Sean ................................................ ...............................................504 

Mosteller, Chris ....................................380 

Murphy, Doug .......................................282 

Natwick, Robin......................................437 

Oleson, Erin...........................................437 

O’Rourke, Katie........................................... ...............................................509 

Ortiz, Ruth .............................................220 

Osborn, Gregg .......................................366 

Osborn, Jennifer.....................................450 

Osborn, Kevin........................................241 

Orozco, Yolanda....................................199 

Parr, Scott ..............................................222 

Passmore, Christine ...............................359 

Patterson, Brian .....................................375 ...............................................725 

Pietrzak, Denise........................................... 

Phelps, Cheryl........................................385 

Pool, Shelly............................................284 

Portnaya Inna.........................................289 

Potter, Christina.....................................161 

Prescott, Nancy......................................175 

Reams, Paul ...........................................354 

Rhea, Mark ............................................338 

Reid ,Michael .............................................. ...............................................729 

Rinehart, Larry ......................................556 

Rivera, Ruth...........................................365 

Robinson, Colleen .................................381 

Rodriquez, Vicky...................................145 

Sabin, Lloyd ..........................................385 

Sepulvado, James...................................178 

Shustek, Kathryn ...................................206 

Sick, Stephen .........................................362 

Singer, Cathy .........................................141 

Singer, John ...........................................371 ...............................................750 

Siscon, Angel.........................................455 

14



Hamovitch, Elana ................................. 421 

Hansen, Kathleen.................................. 351 

Harris, Cindi ......................................... 214 

Hays, Bart ............................................. 135 

Hillberg, David ..................................... 550 

Hinds, Terry................................................ ................................................722 

Hoadley, John ....................................... 442 

Holland, Cole........................................ 371 

Hull, Joel............................................... 364 

Hu Ming-Yi ................................................ ................................................731 

Irving, Kris............................................ 147 

Islas, Jose.................................................... ................................................700 

Jacoway, Will ....................................... 382 

Kahler, Jaime ........................................ 207 

Kepper, Jeff .......................................... 520 

Kiesz, Becky......................................... 375 

Kinports, Dave...................................... 203 

Kirk, Judy ............................................. 444 

Kolombatovic, Amy ............................. 209 

Kruglyak, Maya .......................................... ................................................707 

Lam, Annie ................................................. ................................................797 

Lara, Ron .............................................. 156 

Lazzarini, Adrianna .............................. 193 

Lee, Michael ......................................... 215 

Leighton, Beth ...................................... 390 

Lein, Michelle............................................. ................................................767 

Lewis, Mindy........................................ 232 

Lindhorst, John ..................................... 356 

Lyle, Erica ............................................ 447 

Lomprey, Dawna .................................. 137 

Margarito, Marco.................................. 346 

Mattas, Dave......................................... 187 

McElfresh, Tom.................................... 383 

McGuffin-Wood, Julie.......................... 352 

McKinney, Brett ................................... 179 

McNamara, Jennifer ............................. 290 

Melendez, Carol.................................... 291 

Merideth, Trina..................................... 354 

Messier, Paul ........................................ 515 

13 

DEPARTMENT CHAIRMEN 

Business.............................................................................. Giff Asimos 

Computers ......................................................................Matt Guarnotta 

English.................................................................................... Dan Baits 

Family/Consumer Science............................................... Beth Leighton 

Industrial Tech.............................................................Renee Ackerman 

Performing Arts............................................................... Gregg Osborn 

Science............................................................................... Paul Messier 

Social Science................................................................. Richard Sutton 

Special Education .........................Nancy Prescott, Trampus Thomason 

Physical Education .................................................................. Rick Ash 

Math..................................................................................... Jeff Babbitt 

Art........................................................................................ Tina Colera 

GATE ............................................................................. Richard Sutton 

Counseling/Guidance ............................................................Kris Irving 

Foreign Language.................................................................Shelly Pool 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

PTSA MEETINGS 

Board meetings are held in the Library at 6:30 p.m. 

•Aug. 6 •Sept. 10 •Oct. 8 •Nov. 12 •Dec. 10 •Jan. 7 

•Feb. 11 •March 11 •April 8 •May 6 

Association meetings are Aug. 13, Nov. 12, Jan. 14 and April 8. 

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCING 

♦ Parents are encouraged to call or email teachers to discuss student work. 

♦ Back to School Nights for both terms provide parents an overview of class 

content and student performance expectations. 

♦ Saturday Parent Conferences give parents, teachers and students the opportunity 

to meet and review student progress. 

EXPECTED EXIT STANDARDS 

•Informed Decision Makers •Effective Communicators •Involved Citizens 

•Constructive Thinkers • Self-Directed Learners • Functional Producers 

ATTENDANCE 

STUDENTS—Any more than 5 non-attendance days in any quarter will automatically 

cause a student to FAIL the course. See the Student Handbook for 

attendance policies. Schedule appointments outside of school hours to prevent 

absences. 

6


THE QUARTER SYSTEM 

Introduced in Sept. of 1996, this schedule has reduced class size with classes 

meeting 90 minutes each day. Classes are scheduled in a term, allowing students 

to complete full course work while focusing on fewer classes at one time. 

RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE 

The Restructuring Committee guides changes at the school with teacher, parent, 

community and student representation. The following faculty focus groups 

are represented: 

• Vision, Culture & Leadership • Curricular Paths 

• Student Support 

• Powerful Teaching & Learning 

• Assessment and Accountability 

Open meetings are generally held the second Tuesday of the month and parents 

are encouraged to attend. 

THE CAREER CENTER 

A career counselor is available in room 201 to assist students with career exploration, 

counseling, college information, financial aid, and scholarships. The 

Career Center is open every school day from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Some of 

the information available includes: 

• College Information / College Catalogs 

• Scholarship Information 

• PSAT, ACT, and SAT applications 

• Career information / Military information 

• Work Experience / Youth Employment / Work Permits 

Work permits are required by law for all students under 18 who are employed. 

These permits must be renewed each year. Once a student has a job, he 

or she needs to apply for a work permit from the Career Center. During the 

summer, these permits can be obtained from the ROP Center located at 924 E. 

Main St., El Cajon. 

STUDENT PHONE MESSAGES 

We will not interrupt a class to deliver a phone message to a student except in 

the case of an emergency. If there is an emergency, the parent or guardian may 

call the Grade Level Principals’ office, state the nature of the emergency, and 

if approved, we will deliver the message as soon as possible. Please do not call 

your student’s cell phone during class. Making arrangements regarding work, 

babysitting, rides, celebration (balloon, flowers, etc.) or other activities of this 

type before school will keep lines open for school business and emergencies. 

BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT 

Students are responsible for any books or equipment issued to them. Fines will 

result from lost or damaged books or equipment. If you locate any library 

books, textbooks, or equipment belonging to Helix High, please return them to 

school. If a fine has been paid, it will be refunded. 

7 

TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS—644-1940 


Berray, Michele .....................................507 

Block, Leanna........................................212 

Britschgi, Ken........................................151 

Brown, Larry .........................................372 

Byrd, Debra ...........................................384 

Carroll, Jim............................................272 

Caryl, Misty...........................................179 

Cassady, Brennan ........................................ ...............................................714 

Cech, Rosie............................................148 

Chadwick, Ted............................................. ...............................................708 

Chase, Damon........................................524 

Christian, Elena .....................................125 

Church, Sharon ......................................112 

Colera, Tina ...........................................317 

Collins, Marc .........................................197 

Collis, Earlene .......................................170 

Cook, James...........................................331 

Cooper, Lisa ..........................................124 

Crabtree, Peggy .....................................192 

Crescitelli, Rachel..................................198 

Dagman, Barbara...................................396 

Damschen, Dianne.................................205 

Damschen, Julie.....................................334 

Dartland, Chris ......................................340 

Diaz, Kate..............................................221 

Dolphin, Amanda ..................................209 

Estrada-Burciaga, Gabby.......................231 

Ewing, Michael......................................164 

Faulk, Mark ...........................................142 

Faulk, Paulette .......................................337 

Fortin, Rick............................................114 

Geary, John............................................375 

Ginsberg, Eric........................................330 

Grodecki, Kim .......................................442 

Grodecki, Kim .......................................442 

Guarnotta, Matt......................................333 

Gunion, Kathy .......................................146 

Hafemeister, Alison..................................... ...............................................712 

Hamano, Su ................................................. .......phone number 619-971-1560 

12

TEST DATES 

College Admission Testing Information 2008 – 2009 

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test / National Merit 

Scholarship Qualifying Test) will be administered on October 18, 2008 at 

Helix. Juniors planning to attend college should take this test. 

The following are the test dates for the SAT I and SAT Subject Tests. 

Applications can be obtained in the Counseling Office or the Career Center. 

To register on-line—www.collegeboard.com 

Registration deadlines are at least 6 weeks prior to test 

• October 4, 2008 • January 24, 2009 • May 2, 2009 

• November 1, 2008 • March 14, 2009 • June 6, 2009 

• December 6, 2008 (3/14/09 is SAT Only) 

The following are the test dates for the ACT—apply online at www.act.org 

• Sept. 13, 2008 • Dec. 13, 2008 • April 4, 2009 

• Oct. 25, 2008 • Feb. 7, 2009 • June 13, 2009 

Students applying for admission for the fall term to either the University of 

California or the California State University System must complete all college 

admission testing by November of their Senior year. 

SAT PREP 

Classes are sponsored by AVID and PTSA. Two sessions are offered. Classes 

will be offered in the evening in October and in March. 

FINANCIAL AID 

A financial aid workshop for Seniors and their families is traditionally held in 

early January soon after the Free Application for Federal Student aid (FAFSA) 

is made available. Contact the Kris Irving, Ext. 147 for more information and 

useful web sites. 

TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS—644-1940 


Ackerman, Renee.................................. 344 

Agundes, Tony...................................... 343 

Allsup, Sara ................................................ ................................................561 

Anderson, Amy......................................357................................................711 

Arnaiz, Jim............................................ 182 

Ash, Rick .............................................. 371 

Asimos, Gifford .................................... 165 

Babbitt, Jeffrey ..................................... 563 

Baits, Dan ............................................. 361 

Barkett, Zach ........................................ 242 

Berg, Robert.......................................... 204 

HELIX FOUNDATION 

The purpose of the foundation is to raise funds, promote Helix, preserve Helix 

traditions, and actively solicit the support of the community. You can support 

the Foundation through the purchase of SCRIP. You can purchase SCRIP to use 

for your purchases at participating companies. Funds raised from SCRIP can be 

used toward legitimate school expenses such as the cost of athletics or extra curricular 

activities. If you are interested in purchasing SCRIP, contact Helix Foundation, 

Jim Arnaiz ext. 182 

CHARTER BOARD MEETING DATES 

The Helix Charter Board (typically) meets on the second Monday of each 

month unless otherwise indicated. Scheduled public meeting times are from 5 to 

7 p.m. in the Helix Library. Agendas are posted and available in the Helix High 

School office. The following meeting dates are scheduled: 

• May 12 • June 23 • July (no meeting) • August 11 • Sept. 8 • Oct. 13 

• Nov. 17 • Dec. 8 • Jan. 12 • Feb. 9 • March 9 • April TBA 

*The Helix Charter Board will reorganize at the April meeting and future meetings 

dates will be determined. 

GRADUATION PROCESS 

Graduation from Helix is completed in a two-step process - Division I and Division 

II. Students who are beginning high school enter Division I. The program of 

study in Division I will focus on student demonstration of literacy and numeracy. 

Additionally, every student will develop a statement of educational purpose 

that will reveal personal responsibility and determination for their own 

educational direction. Completion of Division I will typically take place at or 

near the second year at Helix. 

Students fulfilling Division I requirements enter Division II. The program of 

study in Division II will further develop student literacy and numeracy in 

breadth and depth. Every student will complete one of the three option programs 

as part of Division II requirements. The option programs are Option 1- Career 

Path completion, Option 2- Focused Elective Program, Option 3– Off Campus 

or Helix ROP Program. A complete description of the Graduation Options is 

available in the Counseling Office, Career Center or on the Helix website at 

helixcharter.net. Any student completing all Division I and Division II requirements 

is entitled to graduate from Helix Charter High School. 

STUDENT/PARENT RESOURCE CENTER 

(SPRC) provides resources for our students and their families from County/ 

Community Health Services. Those services might include some or all of the 

following: referrals for medical care; family and individual counseling; Healthinsurance 

Access Through Schools (HATS); substance abuse counseling; violence 

prevention; anger management and a multitude of others. Students are 

currently referred by staff members. Our SPRC is a developing program that 

hopes to expand services and availability in the next school year. For more information 

on the Parent/Student Resource Center, contact your counselor or 

anyone in the Guidance Center at School. 

11 

8


HEALTH OFFICE 

The health office is located in the administration building. Students who are ill 

are encouraged to go to the health office for assessment. The students who go 

home due to illness are released only to parents and/or designated people 

stated on the pink Medical Information Card through the health office only. 

Students who call their parents outside of the health office (personal cell 

phones, classrooms etc.) still must present to the health office for release. 

Medication (prescription or over the counter) is only dispensed through the 

health office. There are few exceptions (inhalers, Epi-pens, etc). All medications 

are to be accompanied by a current school year medical form completed 

by the parents AND the prescribing physician. This is a state law and cannot 

be amended. Medications found on a students person or in their belongings 

will be confiscated and their parents notified. For further information call the 

health office at 644-1940 ext. 271. 

WHO DO I CALL WHEN… (644-1940) 

Student is Absent or Tardy . Ext. 231 for 9th & 12th, ext 232 for 10th & 11th 

Nurses Office (when student gets sick at school)................................ Ext. 271 

Library Books – Lost, Damaged, Fines 

Library Tech. ............................................................................– Ext. 162 

Text Books – Lost, Damaged, Fines Book Clerk ....... Rosie Cech – Ext. 148 

Payment for Tests, ASB Cards, Fines, Athletic Clearances 

Finance Clerk..................................................... Angel Siscon – Ext. 455 

Class work ............................................................................................ Teacher 

Dress & Behavior Code Violations 

Grade Level Principals..................................... Ext. 122, 125, 127 or 241 

HOTLINE EXTENSION 911 

Help us to keep Helix safe. Call when you hear about possible fights, 

threats, drugs, weapons or dangerous activities on or off campus. This line is 

reviewed by the School Resource Officer. If you request, your call will be 

anonymous and confidential. Call 644-1940, ext. 911. 

For Questions Regarding - 

ASB ...........................................................................................................TBA 

After School Tutoring..............................................Peggy Crabtree—Ext. 162 

Athletics...................................... Athletics Director, Damon Chase—Ext. 524 

AVID ............................................................................Robert Berg—Ext. 386 

Band...................................................................... Kathleen Hansen—Ext. 351 

Cheer..........................................................................Beth Leighton—Ext. 390 

Choir ........................................................................ John Lindhorst—Ext. 356 

Drama ........................................................................Gregg Osborn—Ext. 366 

Extended Learning, ExL & Tutorial .................................Judy Kirk—Ext. 444 

Journalism............................................................... John Vanderpot—Ext. 327 

Restructuring ........................................................... Dianne Beltran—Ext. 205 

Senior Projects...................................................Christine Passmore—Ext. 359 

Special Education ............................................ Trampus Thomason—Ext. 441 

Yearbook ...................................................................... James Cook—Ext. 341 

Title 1 Coordinator ..................................................Elena Christian—Ext. 127 

9 

Attendance..................................Gabby Estrada-Burciaga(9th & 12th)—Ext. 231 

Attendance.................................................. Mindy Lewis(10th & 11th)—Ext. 232 

Career Center................................................................. Rosie Cech—Ext. 148 

School Site Technician (registrar) ................................... Kate Diaz—Ext. 221 

Career Counselor ............................................................Kris Irving—Ext. 147 

Social Worker...................................... Jennifer Slusher (Grades 9 & 12)—Ext. 395 

Social Worker.......................................... Danielle Yee (Grades 10 & 11)—Ext. 227 

Work Experience ................................................ Donnie Van Hook—Ext. 378 

Nurse ................................................................... Colleen Wimmer—Ext. 271 

Police Office on Campus................................... Officer McNamara—Ext. 290 

GRADE LEVEL TEAMS 

9th Grade Team—Class of 2012 10th Grade Team—Class of 2011 

Principal—Jeff Wenham ext. 127 Principal—Kevin Osborn ext. 241 

Counselor—Kris Irving ext. 147 Counselor—Kathy Gunion ext. 146 

Academic Advisor—Frank Theroux ext. 136 Academic Advisor—Renee Milburn ext. 259 

Secretary—Vicky Rodriguez ext. 145 Secretary—Linda Sullivan ext. 152 

Class Advisor—TBA Class Advisors—Paula Trevino ext. 122 

& Dianne Beltran ext. 205 

11th Grade Team—Class of 2010 12th Grade Team—Class of 2009 

Principal—Paula Ann Trevino ext. 122 Principal—Elena Christian ext. 125 

Counselor—Mark Faulk ext. 142 Counselor—Arica Villegas ext. 144 

Academic Advisor—Yolonda Orozco ext. 199 Academic Advisor—Danika Markey ext. 143 

Secretary—Joan Urich ext. 123 Secretary—Lisa Cooper ext. 124 

Class Advisor—Jaime Kahler ext. 207 Class Advisor—Michele Berray ext. 507 

SCHOOL SCHEDULES 

MON., TUES., THURS., FRI. SCHEDULE 

• Period 0 (extended day) - 7:00 to 7:45 • Period 1 - 7:50 to 9:23 

• Period 2 - 9:28 to 11:01 • Period 3 - 11:14 to 12:47 • Lunch-12:47 to 1:17 

• Period 4 - 1:22 to 2:55 • Period 5(extended day)-3:00 to 4:30 

•LIBRARY HOURS - 7:15 to 4:00 DAILY 

WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE - All Teachers Meeting - 7:50 to 8:10 

TUTORIAL I— Soc. Science, Science, Art, Tech, Performing Arts - 8:15 to 8:55 

TUTORIAL II—English, Math, Foreign Language, P.E., Special Ed. - 8:55 to 9:35 

• Period 0 - 7:00 to 7:45 • Period 1- 9:40 to 10:40 • Period 2- 10:45 to 11:45 

• Advisory- 11:50 to 12:10 • Lunch 12:10 - to 12:45 • Period 3 - 12:50 to 1:50 

• Period 4 - 1:55 to 2:55 • Period 5 (extended day) - 3:00 to 4:30 

MINIMUM SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE 

• Period 1 - 7:50 to 8:58 • Period 2 - 9:03 to 10:10 • Period 3 - 10:15 to 11:20 

•Period 4 -11:25 to 12:35 •Lunch -12:35 to 12:50 •Period 5(ext. day) - 12:50 to 1:58 

FINAL EXAM SCHEDULE 

1st Day • Testing Period 1 - 7:50 to 9:47 • Period 2 - 9:52 to 10:24 

Break - 10:24 to 10:31 • Testing Period 3 - 10:36 to 12:33 

• Period 4 - 12:38 to 1:10 • Period 5 - 1:15 to 3:12 

2nd day • Period 1 - 7:50 to 8:22 • Testing Period 2 - 8:27 to 10:24 

Break - 10:24 to 10:31 • Period 3 - 10:36 to 11:08 

• Testing Period 4 - 11:13 to 1:10 • Period 5 - No Class 

10

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