Dear Seniors, and Parents of Seniors, in the Class of 2020,

Here are updates on a few items of importance:

      1.  Scholarships – Scholarship applications are available on Naviance.  Please pay attention to the due dates.  Completed applications can be mailed to Harrison High School, ATTN:  Mrs. Acra, 9860 West Rd., Harrison, OH 45030.  They can also be dropped off in the front lobby at the high school from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Monday-Friday.  Some scholarships have addresses for applicants to mail directly to the sponsor.  You can find that specific information on Naviance under “Scholarships”.  If you have any questions, please email connie.acra@southwestschools.org.

2.   Senior / Baby Pictures – The original deadline for turning in Baby and Senior pictures for the Yearbook and Senior Video fell during the closure.  We have extended this deadline to Wednesday, April 8.  If you need another copy of the packet, click HERE.  Pictures, forms, and payments (if applicable) can be mailed to Harrison High School, ATTN:  Mr. Morris, 9860 West Rd., Harrison, OH 45030.  They can also be dropped off in the front lobby at the high school from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Monday-Friday.  If you have any questions, please email mike.morris@southwestschools.org.  Pictures can also be scanned and emailed to Mr. Morris.  If you choose this option, please make sure it is a high-resolution scan. 

3.   Caps and Gowns - If any senior has not ordered their cap and gown please call Graduate Service at 513-272-5890.  Email Mrs. Kinnett (amy.kinnett@southwestschools.org) with any questions. 

4.   All seniors should make sure they are subscribed to the “Class of 2020” Team in Microsoft Teams.  Here is the link:  https://teams.microsoft.com/l/channel/19%3a3d94c4818a3941ddbae25a115eceb651%40thread.tacv2/General?groupId=9fe329f6-4a88-4629-9285-326584a1a32a&tenantId=37ec4aed-5100-4ad9-a47f-5edb04fca506

5.   Graduation Speeches - Prospective Graduation Speakers:

If you are interested in speaking at graduation, start sharpening those public speaking and speech-writing skills!  We are looking for original, thought-provoking speeches and strong, skillful speakers.

Submit your typed speech to Mrs. Hinterlong (jane.hinterlong@southwestschools.org) by Friday, April 24, 2020.  A group of teachers/administrators will review the submissions and ask 3-5 speakers to audition.  The candidates will deliver their speeches to a small group of teachers who will then select 1-2 graduation speakers (this may have to be done remotely).

Consider the following when writing your speech:

               2-5-minute speech

               Creative

               Original (your ideas, fresh, clearly directed to your classmates and the guests)

               Clear

               Concise

               Appropriate for the occasion (formal, yet familiar)

If you are called back for the “audition,” you will then be competing not only with your words, but with your speech delivery skills.  We will be looking for students who deliver their speeches with the following:

               Strong vocal and facial expression

               Strong eye contact

               Articulation and strong volume

               Strong fluidity

               Use of appropriate body language

Finalists will be expected to work diligently outside of school time revising their speeches and practicing their deliveries.

Don’t hesitate to e-mail Mrs. Hinterlong (jane.hinterlong@southwestschools.org) or Mr. Weber (eric.weber@southwestschools.org) with any questions.