Thursday, August 31, 2023

BUY GIFT CARDS. EARN $ FOR TUITION. POST #2

 RaiseRight, formerly known as “Shop with Scrip,” is a gift card fundraising program.

For example, you can buy Amazon gift cards through RaiseRight — and you'll earn a rebate back.


Why should I purchase Scrip?
Hundreds of local and national retailers are willing to donate money to non-profit organizations through Scrip purchases. This money can then be used for spreading the Gospel to the youth at ALA and our congregations. A percentage of all your regular shopping expenditures will help our WELS schools and churches in this soul-saving work.

Each store gives a percentage back to ALA (called a rebate). We keep track of rebates.

Rebates are split equally between ALA and you (50% to ALA and 50% for your use).

You may choose to do one of these with your rebate:
  • apply it to your child's ALA tuition account
  • apply it to a tuition account of a child at a local WELS school
  • donate it to the ALA tuition assistance fund (charitable gift)
  • a local WELS church (charitable gift)
  • receive your rebates back in cash

Ready to learn more?

  • View retailers.
  • Contact Finance@ALAcoyotes.org to order OR, 
  • Contact Finance@ALAcoyotes.org to enroll. (Mr. Burmeister will share our secure "Enrollment Code.")
  • FAQ

Next order:
Sept 15 at 8am
  • Physical gift cards will arrive a few days later and can be sent home with your student
  • E-cards are available immediately when Mr. Burmeister places the order (or sometimes even earlier!)

People on campus who use Scrip who may be able to answer more questions:
  • Jen Bode (JBode@ALAcoyotes.org)
  • Margy Hartzell (Hartzell@ALAcoyotes.org)

This is post #2 of a series of informational posts on gift card fundraising. View other posts under the label "tuition support" on the ALA blog.


Wednesday, August 30, 2023

CAN YOU HELP?

We have a family that has generously opened their home to four (yes, 4!) housing students. This permits these four kids to attend ALA and get the benefit of our positive culture and God’s Word every day.

The problem is that, while they have room in their house, they do not have room in their car. A couple other solutions have been tried and were not completely successful.

Is anyone able to assist with transportation in the mornings? If two girls could be picked up by another driver, the problem would be solved.

The family lives near 59th Avenue and Elliot in Laveen. Please contact Kurt Rosenbaum if you think you can help. Rosenbaum@ALAcoyotes.org



PSAT SIGN UP DEADLINE

The deadline to sign up for this year's PSAT test is tomorrow, August 31. There is no fee when signing up. Sign up is done in the ALA office. 




Tuesday, August 29, 2023

JUNIOR COYOTE CHEER CAMP

Spread the word to friends with elementary-aged girls!

JR COYOTE CHEER CAMP
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Learn cheers, jumps, basic stunting and tumbling skills


Grades 1-3
10:00am-12:00pm
Showcase routine at 12:00pm


Grades 4-8
12:45pm-3:00pm
perform with ALA cheer team at Sept 22 football game


Register at ALAcoyotes.org/cheer

Monday, August 28, 2023

SAFETY CONCERN

Drivers, please remember to drive in the parking lot slowly at all times, but especially when we are at the beginning or the end of the day. We have students who cross the parking lot to get to a classroom, and as a result, they are crossing traffic patterns perhaps twice to get over there. It was observed this morning that several “later” arrivals (just a minute or two before the school-start bell sounded) entered and exited the parking lot at a slightly higher speed, and students were in the process of moving to that outer classroom. Your cooperation on this matter will be a great advantage to our students’ safety. Thank you.




TOP 3 ATTENDANCE TIPS

New school? New year? Sometimes you don't know what to do! Take a look at our TOP attendance tips:


Tip #1: Parents, contact school (602-268-8686 Ext. 110 or Solofra@ALAcoyotes.org) before 9:00 a.m. on the day of an absence to notify Mrs. Solofra. 

💡 Pro tip: No call or email is too early! Send a message as soon as you know your child will be absent.

Tip #2: Plan to arrive at school 10-15 minutes before school starts. This extra cushion helps if you run into unexpected traffic.

Tip #3: Does your child have an appointment during the day? When you arrive, the driveway gate will be closed. Simply
  • push the button (it's labeled), and listen for the receptionist's response.
  • Let the receptionist know your name and your child's name.

View the daily schedules on page 39 of the Parent-Student Handbook.



MAP TESTING

All ninth graders will be taking MAP tests tomorrow.
  • Please note the following:
  • Students in grade 9 will take math, reading, and language tests.
  • Each student must bring his/her FULLY CHARGED Chromebook for testing.
  • Testing will begin after homeroom and continue all day in the gym, with planned breaks and activities between the test sessions.
  • Any missed tests will need to be made up during study halls or a student's free time.



VOLLEYBALL AT HERITAGE ACADEMY, LAVEEN

Our Coyotes take on Heritage Academy Laveen on Wed., Aug. 30 in our volleyball season opener.

Time: FR/SO 4:00 PM, JV 5:00PM, Varsity 6:00 PM

The entrance fee will be cash only:

  • Adults - $5
  • Students Age 6 through High School - $3
  • Children 5 and under - Free

Other notes:

  • No outside food or drink (other than water) is permitted in the gym
  • Please refrain as much as possible from leaving the seating area during the contest
  • Sit in the designated “visiting team section” located in the red section of bleachers on the west side of bleachers.
  • The game can also be watched on YouTube- Heritage Academy Laveen Athletics 

To find away game locations:
  1. visit ALAcoyotes.org/athletics 
  2. scroll down to "Athletic Resources" 
  3. then "Directions to Away games"


Friday, August 25, 2023

FALL SPORTS PICTURES

Cheer and cross country

Team and individual pictures will be taken after school on Monday, August 28

Anna Bebee, former ALA parent, will be taking all of our sports pictures. The athletic program will pay her a flat fee, and all digital pictures will be available to our families for free on her website.
  • annabebee.smugmug.com
  • The team photographs will be traditional and not a composite of individual pictures.
  • We will offer the athletes the option of an individual picture or 1 buddy picture. 
  • The athletic program will purchase senior group banners at no cost to families.
  • Access code to view photos will be made available when photos are ready.


TRI-UNIVERSITY WORSKSHOPS

Seniors, are you interested in attending or learning more about one of our state universities? Two upcoming Tri-University Workshops are designed to provide you with information on ASU, UofA and NAU all at one event. Events are being held Sunday, August 27 at ASU Tempe and Sunday, September September 10 at ASU West (Glendale). For more information and to register for these free events, click on the following link: https://visit.asu.edu/tri-university/high-school-student-programming or talk to Mrs. Stahmann for more information.






FOOTBALL HOME OPENER

Join us for the Coyote football home opener tonight! 

The New Family BBQ is open from 5:30-6:30 (for all new families).

Then grab a snack from the concession stand, cheer along with our cheer team, drink lots of water, wear black & gold, sit by someone you've never met, and join the fun of Friday night Coyote football!


TICKET GATE:

  • ALL guests enter to the right of the bleachers (north gate)
  • Purchase single game admission (cash or credit card accepted)
  • Purchase Athletic Annual Passes
  • Or bring your Athletic Annual Pass

FREE ADMISSION FOR ATHLETIC ANNUAL PASSHOLDERS:

  • All ALA students and their immediate household family receive free admission if they show their Athletic Annual Pass. This is a $65 pass. Please hang onto it!
  • Families of ALA students received an Athletic Annual Pass, sent with your student or received at Orientation Day. Please ask your child/ren for this.
  • Active or retired WELS pastors/teachers receive a FREE Athletic Pass and can pick one up at the main gate.

ADMISSION FOR FANS: (cash or credit card accepted)

  • $5 … Adults
  • $3 … age 60+
  • $2 … Alumni
  • $2 … Students (age 6 – grade 12)
  • Free … age 5 and under
  • Athletic Annual Pass … $65/family or $20/single (these are great for grandparents who love to attend games)


STREAMING:

Home games are streamed, free of charge, on YouTube.

💻 Search for “Arizona Lutheran” on YouTube (look for the “Live” tab)

💻 https://www.youtube.com/c/ArizonaLutheranAcademy


Beware of any streaming site that asks for your credit card information. Always visit the blog (https://alacoyotes.blogspot.com/) or ALA’s social media pages for accurate streaming information.






WELS YOUTH NIGHT

Last chance to register your teens for WELS YOUTH NIGHT!

Experience an inspiring evening of games, music, God's Word, small group discussion, and fun with fellow high schoolers (9th-12th grade) from all over the valley.

Our featured speaker is an ALA dad and endocrinologist. In a world that wants to lead teens to question God's design, he will share what God's Word says about the topic. He will also dispel some myths about this topic that have been spread by advocates of gender fluidity and transgenderism.
 
Saturday, August 26
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Cross of Glory Lutheran, Peoria
The generous people of Cross of Glory are providing a free meal from a food truck!



MAP TESTING

All ninth graders will be taking MAP tests on Tuesday, August 29.

  • Please note the following:
  • Students in grade 9 will take math, reading, and language tests.
  • Each student must bring his/her FULLY CHARGED Chromebook for testing.
  • Testing will begin after homeroom and continue all day in the gym, with planned breaks and activities between the test sessions.
  • Any missed tests will need to be made up during study halls or a student's free time.




Thursday, August 24, 2023

NEW FAMILY BBQ

 All new families: Please RSVP for the New Family BBQ here.



BUY GIFT CARDS. EARN $ FOR TUITION. POST #1

RaiseRight, formerly known as “Shop with Scrip,” is a gift card fundraising program.

This program allows you to buy gift cards, such as Amazon, through RaiseRight and earn a rebate back.

The purchase of RaiseRight store gift cards raises funds for one of three things (you choose one of these):
  • students’ tuition accounts at ALA and our Arizona WELS schools,
  • the ALA tuition assistance fund, or
  • our congregations & schools

Ready to learn more?
  • View retailers.
  • Contact Finance@ALAcoyotes.org to enroll. (Mr. Burmeister will share our secure "Enrollment Code.")
  • Scrip FAQ.

Next order: August 31 at 8am
  • Physical gift cards will arrive a few days later and can be sent home with your student
  • E-cards are available immediately when Mr. Burmeister places the order (or sometimes even earlier!)

People on campus who use RaiseRight gift cards who may be able to answer more questions:
  • Jen Bode (JBode@ALAcoyotes.org)
  • Margy Hartzell (Hartzell@ALAcoyotes.org)

This is part of a series of informational posts on gift card fundraising. View other posts under the label "tuition support" on the ALA blog.

 


Wednesday, August 23, 2023

HANDYMAN & CREATIVE PERSON NEEDED!

New this year, we are planning to display Coyote gear in the gym concession stand. But to make it look nice, we need some help! We're looking for....

(1) a person to hang a metal grid in cement block 
(2) a creative person to make the gear look snazzy

Coordinate a convenient time with Justin Ohm or Jen Bode. Our goal is to have the store open by Sept. 6 for the first home volleyball match.


Questions? Contact: 
Ohm@ALAcoyotes.org
JBode@ALAcoyotes.org


ALA HOUSING UPDATE

A HUGE thank you to the 25 families who are stepping up to host our out-of-area students for the 2023-2024 school year! 
  • We are currently hosting 32 domestic housing students and 14 international students. 
  • Those 46 students comprise 20% of our student body! 
That is a large number of kids who get to grow in their FAITH at ALA because our community takes FAMILY to the highest level — welcoming teenagers into their home and becoming their immediate family while attending ALA! 

We are also grateful to have families "in the wings" who can serve as back up if we were to accept housing students mid-year or if one of our host families unexpectedly moves away. 

You can see by the number of host families needed (we have averaged 40-50 in recent years!) that fulfilling housing requests can be an enormous task! We are always looking for interested host families. Help us prepare for the FUTURE by signing up as a back-up host family — we welcome that any time of the year! 

Find details for our housing program at https://alacoyotes.org/support/hosting/



Tuesday, August 22, 2023

JR COYOTE CHEER CAMP

Spread the word to friends with elementary-aged girls!

JR COYOTE CHEER CAMP
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Learn cheers, jumps, basic stunting and tumbling skills

Grades 1-3
10:00am-12:00pm
Showcase routine at 12:00pm

Grades 4-8
12:45pm-3:00pm
perform with ALA cheer team at Sept 22 football game





ATHLETIC PASSES-CORRECTED VOLLEYBALL DATE

All Arizona called workers are invited to pick up an ALA athletic pass this fall at any of our home volleyball or football games. This pass will give you and your immediate family free access to our home, regular season events. (Please note that this pass is only for "home" events and will not provide admission to "away" events or post-season games.)
  • First home football game is Friday, August 25
  • First home volleyball matches are Wednesday, September 6
  • Just stop by the ticket table, identify yourself as an Arizona called worker, and the volunteer at the ticket table will take it from there. 

NEW FAMILY BBQ

New Family BBQ: Friday, August 25

RSVP here

All new students and families are welcome. Come anytime between 5:30-6:30.







MEDIA INTERN TEAM

Is your student looking for a way to get involved? Encourage them to join the Media Intern team! The Media Intern team is a behind-the-scenes group of creative and observant students who love ALA and want to spread the hype to current and future students, friends, and family.

Media Interns will have opportunities to explore their gifts in photography, videography, graphic design, and blogging. Interested students can pick up a brochure in the office to learn more.

You can also search our social pages for the hashtag #ALAmediainterns to see some of their past work.


Monday, August 21, 2023

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

 SIGN UP ONLINE

Parents are encouraged to volunteer each sports season. It’s a great way to meet other families while supporting ALA athletics.

  • Football Home Opener - Friday, August 25, 7pm
    • Ticket volunteers should arrive at 5:45 pm, open the ticket gate at 6pm, and sell through halftime.
    • Parking Crew should arrive at 6pm and direct cars into parking spots into the first quarter.
    • Game Day Grill Guys should grill hot dogs and hamburgers from 5:45pm through the 3rd quarter.

  • Volleyball Home Opener - Wednesday, September 6 - FR/So 4pm | JV 5pm | Var 6pm 
    • Ticket volunteers should arrive by 4:45pm (15 minutes prior to the JV game) and sell through the end of the first set in the varsity game.

ATHLETIC PASSES

All Arizona called workers are invited to pick up an ALA athletic pass this fall at any of our home volleyball or football games. This pass will give you and your immediate family free access to our home, regular season events. (Please note that this pass is only for "home" events and will not provide admission to "away" events or post-season games.)


  • First home volleyball matches are Thursday, September 1
  • First home football game is Friday, August 25
  • Just stop by the ticket table, identify yourself as an Arizona called worker, and the volunteer at the ticket table will take it from there. 

Please share this information with all called workers—active or retired—who are a part of your congregation or school. We hope to see many of you on campus to enjoy watching our student-athletes this year!

PSAT

The PSAT/NMSQT test will be offered at ALA on Wednesday, October 19, 2023.

The test is OPTIONAL for juniors. Some sophomores also choose to take the test.
  • The test starts immediately after homeroom on October 19 and ends by noon. There is no makeup date. The test is available once during the school year.
  • We previously stated there is an $18 fee. There is NO FEE. The fee has been rolled into tuition. Student must still sign up to take the test.
  • Students who wish to take the test must sign up with Miss Else in the ALA office by August 31.
  • Reasons to take the test include:
    • The questions, format, test prep, and scoring are similar to the SAT.
    • It’s a fairly inexpensive “dry run” so students may feel less nervous for the SAT test (which should be taken in the spring of junior year or early senior year).
    • The PSAT results help with SAT test prep using the College Board and Khan Academy accounts. This SAT test prep is free.
    • PSAT scores are not provided to colleges and are not considered for admission.
    • Juniors can earn a PSAT score to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other national recognition and scholarships.
    • Students can opt to have limited personal information shared with colleges and scholarship providers. This can provide an opportunity to learn about various schools, programs, and scholarships available.

Sunday, August 20, 2023

SCHOOL PICTURES

School Pictures are Ready!
View and order at https://shop.jostenspix.com/login


ARIZONA LUTHERAN ACADEMY
Event Code: FE211923


Friday, August 18, 2023

SCHOOL PROPERTY

Please take care of school property! If a student’s things are left laying around outside or in classrooms (except during chapel), it will be turned in to Room 12. Starting TODAY (8/18) all lost school textbooks and Chromebooks will incur a $10 fee that will be charged to your student’s account.


JUNIOR COYOTE CHEER CAMP

Girls in grades 1-8 will learn cheers, motions, jumps, and basic stunting/tumbling skills. Girls should wear athletic clothes and tennis shoes. A snack will be provided and all girls will receive a cheer hair bow and camp t-shirt.
  • Saturday, September 16, in the ALA Den
  • $30 per camper. Register today!
  • Grades 1-3, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
  • Parents are invited back to watch the girls showcase a short routine at 12PM
  • Grades 4-8, 12:45 PM-3:00 PM
  • Girls will be invited to perform pregame cheers with the ALA cheerleaders and a halftime routine on September 22 during the home football game at 7:00 PM.
  • If you have any questions, contact Schneiter@ALAcoyote.org.

FAMILY ATHLETIC PASS

These passes allow parents & siblings of ALA students to attend home games for free. Other family members can purchase these passes at the gate ($20/Single or $65/Family).

  • These were available on Orientation Day to families of new students.
  • Other students were given one today to take home to you. Please ask them for this pass when they get home from school.
  • These are for HOME regular season events.
  • If you did not receive your pass, contact Solofra@ALAcoyotes.org

 



FOOTBALL SEASON OPENER / STREAMING

Our Coyote football team kicks off its season tonight at Willcox at 7pm. 

Streaming:

  • The game will be streamed by Cool FM online (a radio station) on the CoolFM Facebook page.
  • We assume this is a video stream but don't know the details.
  • DO NOT give your credit card info to other "streams" you find online. Fake game streaming is a huge scamming market.
Check the comments on ALA's Facebook page tonight for occasional score updates— look for the "game time kick-off" post (image shown below) on Facebook. We invite any/all fans in attendance to post updates there!



Let's #GOYOTES!


Thursday, August 17, 2023

FOOTBALL REPORTERS NEEDED

Our Coyotes kick-off the football season with a road trip to Willcox on Friday, August 18! 

We're looking for fans in attendance to report the score on our Facebook page at half and final. Interested? Attending the game? Look for our GAME TIME post on Facebook and share the score in the comments. (We'll take all the updates we can get, so keep 'em coming.)

If you don't already, follow us on Facebook here.


Image by one of our Media Interns.




VOLUNTEER THIS FALL

Volunteering is one of the best ways to connect with others at ALA. With that in mind, all ALA parents are encouraged to volunteer in 1 or 2 ways each season. (Nope, it's not required, but it's good for your Coyote health!)

See all the possibilities & sign up.


ALA New Family BBQ

All families with a new student at ALA (freshman-senior, even if it isn’t your first student attending ALA) are invited! Please RSVP using this link: https://alacoyotes.org/new-family-bbq/






Wednesday, August 16, 2023

SEEKING SOCCER COACH

We are in need of a head soccer coach for the winter season. We need someone to continue to carry out ALA's mission and core values as they teach the sport and mentor young student-athletes.

You must currently possess or have the ability to obtain a Fingerprint clearance, CPR certification, and NFHS certifications.

If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Coach Peter (Peter@ALAcoyotes.org).


PSAT

 The PSAT/NMSQT test will be offered at ALA on Wednesday, October 19, 2023.

  • The test is OPTIONAL for juniors. Some sophomores also choose to take the test.
  • The test starts immediately after homeroom on October 19 and ends by noon. There is no makeup date. The test is available once during the school year.
  • Students who wish to take the test must sign up with Miss Else in the ALA office by August 31.
  • There is NO FEE and is paid by the student when signing up for the exam. *Edited
  • Reasons to take the test include:
    • The questions, format, test prep, and scoring are similar to the SAT.
    • It’s a fairly inexpensive “dry run” so students may feel less nervous for the SAT test (which should be taken in the spring of junior year or early senior year).
    • The PSAT results help with SAT test prep using the College Board and Khan Academy accounts. This SAT test prep is free.
    • PSAT scores are not provided to colleges and are not considered for admission.
    • Juniors can earn a PSAT score to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other national recognition and scholarships.
    • Students can opt to have limited personal information shared with colleges and scholarship providers. This can provide an opportunity to learn about various schools, programs, and scholarships available.

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

NEW STUDENT PIZZA LUNCH

New Student Pizza Lunch: Wednesday, August 16

All new students (gr 9-12) meet in the gym for lunch at no cost.

Students should bring their own drink.

SCHOOL PICTURES

School Pictures are Ready!

View and order at https://shop.jostenspix.com/login

ARIZONA LUTHERAN ACADEMY
Event Code: FE211923

Monday, August 14, 2023

COYOTE GEAR

ONLINE GEAR

New this year, we are working with BSN Sideline Sports for our Coyote gear. They offer 

  • One main Coyote Gear Store (open 24/7 all year, with the ability to customize items, benefits athletic program)
  • Shops for each sport (open for a limited time, benefits the team)

Visit our fall team shops below. Two shops close TONIGHT —Aug. 14.
Shipping is $9.95 for each store.


ON CAMPUS SHOP

New this fall, the Booster Club will also offer a limited supply of a variety of gear items in the gym concession stand, including stickers, hats, drinkware, and Pura Vida bracelets designed by our senior girls. Stay tuned for details.





PICTURE DAY



Picture day at ALA was a success! Please keep in mind the following information:

Student IDS will come about 7-10 business day after picture day. We will see these come the week of the 21st.

Online ordering will become available in a couple of days. Please look for another announcement for the information on how to order photos online!

WLC RECRUITMENT TRIP

Any juniors and seniors who are interested in Wisconsin Lutheran College are welcome to join on a recruitment trip to WLC on Sept 12-13. Students who expressed an interest have received information on the trip. If any additional students are interested, please contact Mrs. Stahmann for more information. There is a form that should be completed and returned to Mrs. Stahmann by this Wednesday, August 16.

Sunday, August 13, 2023

FALL SPORTS PICTURES

This applies to cheer, cross country, football, and volleyball.

Team and individual pictures will be taken after school on the following days:

Monday, August 14 (Football & Volleyball)


Monday, August 28 (Cheer & Cross Country)

Anna Bebee, former ALA parent, will be taking all of our sports pictures. The athletic program will pay her a flat fee, and all digital pictures will be available to our families for free on her website.
  • annabebee.smugmug.com
  • The team photographs will be traditional and not a composite of individual pictures. 
  • We will offer the athletes the option of an individual picture or 1 buddy picture. 
  • The athletic program will purchase senior group banners at no cost to families.
  • Access code to view photos will be made available when photos are ready.

Saturday, August 12, 2023

COYOTE GEAR ONLINE STORE

ONLINE STORE

Our NEW 24/7 ARIZONA LUTHERAN ACADEMY Sideline Store is open. To celebrate, we're offering fans an epic, month-long promotion — 25% OFF sitewide when you use code SPIRIT (expires on approx. Aug. 24). 



TEAM SHOPS

New this year, we BSN Sideline Sports also offers shops for each sport (open for a limited time, benefits the team)

Shipping is $9.95 for each store.


ON CAMPUS SHOP

New this fall, the Booster Club will also offer a limited supply of a variety of gear items in the gym concession stand, including stickers, hats, drinkware, and Pura Vida bracelets designed by our senior girls. Stay tuned for details.


Friday, August 11, 2023

HOT LUNCH

Our first hot lunch delivery from My Hot Lunchbox went smoothly. Just a reminder, ordering cuts off the day before at 12pm. If you would like to order hot lunch, please do so by Monday at 12pm. Panda Express will be delivered Tuesday, and Jimmy John's will be delivered Thursday.

ORDER NOW!

Links for help and questions:

How to Create an Account


How We Work


MHL Program Introduction


Parent Lunch FAQ

FALL SPORTS PICTURES

This applies to cheer, cross country, football, and volleyball.

Team and individual pictures will be taken after school on the following days:

Monday, August 14 (Football & Volleyball)


Monday, August 28 (Cheer & Cross Country)

Anna Bebee, former ALA parent, will be taking all of our sports pictures. The athletic program will pay her a flat fee, and all digital pictures will be available to our families for free on her website.

  • annabebee.smugmug.com
  • The team photographs will be traditional and not a composite of individual pictures. 
  • We will offer the athletes the option of an individual picture or 1 buddy picture. 
  • The athletic program will purchase senior group banners at no cost to families.
  • Access code to view photos will be made available when photos are ready.

Thursday, August 10, 2023

PHOTO PERMISSION

Photographs and videos of students may be used for classroom projects, the ALA website, social media channels, in our print publications, and for other school-related purposes. In the rare circumstance that your child needs identity protection and cannot be photographed, please submit written notice to photos@ALAcoyotes.org.

Photos posted on our websites and social media accounts will not contain student names, unless the student is being identified as the recipient of an award or honored for an achievement.



Wednesday, August 9, 2023

PICTURE DAY

School picture day is Friday, August 11.
  • All students will have a picture taken and will receive a student ID.
  • These pictures will be used in the 23-24 yearbook for grades 9-11.
  • Yearbook pictures for seniors will be handled later.
  • Picture retake day is scheduled for September 14.
  • Purchase of school pictures is optional. Information about purchase will be coming soon.


MUSIC LESSONS

If you are interested in music lessons with Mrs. Lara Johnson, please pick up an information sheet in the office (a tri-fold paper). Complete & return it to Mrs. Solofra in the front office, or email Mrs. Lara Johnson directly. Lessons will begin the week of August 21, 2023.





Tuesday, August 8, 2023

BUS PASSES

Can be purchased online or in the front office. If you purchase passes online, please let your child know they need to come to the office to pick them up.


Paying online:

  • Go to ALAcoyotes.org / Parent Resources tab / then scroll down to the Financial Information section.
  • Click on “Pay Online: Housing, Sports, Miscellaneous

                o Enter the total amount you wish to purchase, then calculate the total ($40 per pass).

                o In the “Miscellaneous Fee” box enter Bus Pass.

                o In the “Apply to the Account of” box enter your child’s name.

                o Enter Payer Information.

                o Click on I’m not a robot, then submit.


MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

If your child takes prescription medication or OTC medication throughout the school year, please drop it off in the front office along with a permission form for each medication. This can be done at any time throughout the school year.
  •  Write your last name on all OTC medications.
  •  Print one form for each medication.







OPENING SERVICE

Our 46th school year begins Wednesday, Aug. 9 at 9am. All parents, families, and friends are invited to attend our opening worship service which begins at approximately 9:10am. The service includes the installation of Shawn Riesop and Hans Brauer! 

We will be livestreaming the service. Watch on the "live" tab of our YouTube channel: youtube.com/c/ArizonaLutheranAcademy


Monday, August 7, 2023

POWERSCHOOL

All parents and students should be signed into their PowerSchool Parent or Student account by Wednesday. This account is a key factor in your connection and communication with your student's education and ALA. We highly suggest using the PowerSchool Mobile app, but you may also access your account through wels.powerschool.com. If you do not know your login information, please contact Jamie Johnson at extension 143 or jjohnson@alacoyotes.org. Helpful tutorials are on the ALA website on the Resources for Parents page in the PowerSchool section.

BUSES

Our ALA bus service will resume on Wednesday, August 9. See the schedule below for morning departure times, and please plan to be at the location 10 minutes prior to departure. The first ride on Wednesday morning is free of charge. The punch cards will begin to be punched Wednesday afternoon.


The after-school departure is at 3:10pm and reverses the order of the morning pick up. Students must be prompt.

Passes can be purchased in the office or online (and picked up in the office).

Tucson service begins on August 14. At this point, no one has requested service to the North Valley QT, so that leg will not be offered until further notice.

Our drivers as we begin this year:
  • Tucson (Monday/first day mornings) - John Mueller
  • North Valley mornings (Grace/QT) - Paul Haag on Mondays/first days and John Mueller other days
  • North Valley afternoons - Paul Haag
  • East Valley mornings (Pilgrim/Emmanuel) - Sean John
  • East Valley afternoons - Mike Henderson


Arizona Lutheran Academy 

Bus Schedule 2023-2024


  • The bus service will begin on Wednesday, August 9, following the Monday (late start) schedule.

  • Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the departure time.

  • The times are subject to change, depending upon the number of riders.

  • The afternoon bus leaves ALA at 3:10pm.The arrivals at the drop-off points follow a reverse order.

PILGRIM

3257 E. University

Mesa 

EMMANUEL

715 W. Southern

Tempe

QUIKTRIP

 (Upon request)

8870 W. Thunderbird Rd Peoria  

GRACE

5600 W. Palmaire Ave. 

Glendale

Bus leaves 

7:45am on Monday 

(or late start day)

6:45am on Tues-Fri

Bus leaves

8:15am on Monday (or late start day)

7:15am on Tues-Fri

Bus leaves 

7:25am on Monday 

(or late start day)

6:25am on Tues-Fri

Bus leaves 

8:00am on Monday (or late start day)

7:00am on Tues-Fri







Sunday, August 6, 2023

STUDENT SCHEDULES

Students can see their class schedules in PowerSchool.

All returning students' schedules will be printed and available
  • Monday, Aug. 7 between 9am-11am in the front office.   
  • Tuesday, Aug. 8 between 9am-11am in the front office.
  • The first day of school, Aug. 9, starting at 8:15am in the gym lobby. 

Your locker/combination and HR are printed on the schedules.


Schedules are also shown on the Power School app:
  • Students will see all their class boxes on the dashboard. 
  • To see their schedule, they click at the bottom on the word 'classes.' It will show them periods A through H and all important class information.


Friday, August 4, 2023

GEAR SHOPS FOR EACH SPORT

ONLINE GEAR

New this year, we are working with BSN Sideline Sports for our Coyote gear. They offer 

  • One main Coyote Gear Store (open 24/7 all year, with the ability to customize items, benefits athletic program)
  • Shops for each sport (open for a limited time, benefits the team)
Visit our fall team shops below:
Shipping is $9.95 for each store.


ON CAMPUS SHOP

New this fall, the Booster Club will also offer a limited supply of a variety of gear items in the gym concession stand, including stickers, hats, drinkware, and Pura Vida bracelets designed by our senior girls. Stay tuned for details.










HOUSING NEED

We are still seeking a host family for 2 domestic sophomore girls.
  • Do you have a guest room?
  • or a daughter's room that can be shared (we can help find a bunk or twin for your space!)
  • Can you pull one more chair up to your table? 
  • Are you already providing food for you/your family?
  • Is there one available seat in your car/pool?
  • Do you love helping kids attend ALA?
This is really all that's needed! Housing kids do not expect their own room or luxurious space/food/things to themselves. They just want to go to ALA. If you can house one or both of these girls even temporarily, please contact Margy Hartzell (Hartzell@ALAcoyotes.org) ASAP so they have somewhere to stay starting Wednesday (only 5 days away!!)

Domestic students travel home most weekends; they are with you Monday after school through Friday before school. Read more about our domestic housing program here.

If you cannot, please, (1) pray! (2) think of one person to pass this on, and (3) announce it at your church Sunday!


Thursday, August 3, 2023

HOT LUNCH

We have already seen many students sign up for Hot Lunch with success! If you would like to sign up for hot lunch, please click the link below to create a free account and start ordering. I have also attached some links to help you navigate the system as we become acquainted with the program. 


Just a reminder ordering cuts off at 12:00 PM the day before the delivery.

ORDER NOW! 


Links for help and questions:

How to Create an Account

How We Work

MHL Program Introduction

Parent Lunch FAQ

IMPORTANT RESOURCES

Explore these important resources and refer back often!


BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENTS

See you soon!




INTERNATIONAL ORIENTATION

Friday, August 4, 9am - 3pm

New international students will have their orientation day with Mrs. Stahmann on Friday. International students do not need to attend the Saturday Orientation Day.


NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION

Saturday, August 5, 12:30-4pm

All new students (all grades) and a parent should attend the New Student Orientation Day. 

  • Begins at 12:30pm in the ALA gym (NOTE: This is not an "open house" format; it is scheduled for all to be there from 12:30 to 4pm.)
  • One parent is required but both are welcome.
  • Information will be given for both parents and new students.
  • Students will receive lockers, class schedules, and more.
  • Students can bring school supplies to put into their lockers.
  • Parents and students will receive PowerSchool information.


DOMESTIC HOUSING MEETING

Saturday, August 5, 4pm

If your child will be living with a host family or you are hosting a domestic student, you should attend. Contact Wells@ALAcoyotes.org or Hartzell@ALAcoyotes.org with questions.




THANK YOU!

Many, many thanks to our hard-working volunteer crew at Wednesday's work night! Campus is looking great, and we are ready for our 46th school year!


VOLUNTEER THIS FALL!

Volunteering is one of the best ways to connect with others at ALA. With that in mind, all ALA parents are encouraged to volunteer in 1 or 2 ways each season. (Nope, it's not required, but it's good for your Coyote health!)
  • Most of the activities are a 2-3 hour commitment (or less!).
  • Some activities you can do from home.
  • Attending a game? We have lots of opportunities there.
  • Want to support our new ALA teachers on their first day? We've got ideas!

Our Fall sign-up page is ready! See all the possibilities & sign up.


If you're wondering which volunteer gigs are most enjoyable, scroll through our Facebook or Instagram page to see what other parents share as their faves!


Wednesday, August 2, 2023

NEW STAFF

We welcome three new staff members for the 2023-24 school year.

 Mr. Shawn Riesop

Mr. Hans Brauer

Miss Leah Else

Our two new teachers will be installed on Wednesday, August 9 during our opening service at 9:10am. All are invited to attend!