Viking Weekly News
Dear Voyager Community,
I want to ensure our entire community that school safety and security remain a top priority at Voyager. The tragedy at The Covenant School in Nashville is heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their community for those children and staff lost during this senseless tragedy. Voyager school administrators continuously review and update our school procedures and participate in state trainings on threat assessments to ensure we stay abreast of the latest safety protocols. We have also enlisted the support of an outside security agency to conduct a safety audit later this spring to provide recommendations for further improvements. Please remember how important it is to check in with your child to ensure they feel safe and connected in school. Please share any concerns you may have with your building administrators or school counselor so that any issues can be addressed to ensure the well-being of our community.
NC Check Ins
Middle School students worked hard this week and completed their NC Check In 3 testing. Thank you to all our students and staff for doing their best and ensure a supportive testing environment. High School students and elementary students also continue to master their skills and course content. Spring break is right around the corner. Please remember school will be closed for students from Friday, April 7 through Monday, April 17th. Teachers will have a teacher workday on April 17th and students return to school on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Student Recognition
Earlier this month, Cece Meath, a 9th grader from Voyager Academy High School, reached out to Officer A.J. Green of District 2 B-Squad at the Durham Police Department with an idea to hold a toy drive for children going through traumatic experiences. Cece collected over 200 stuffed animals and donated them to the District 2 Substation on March 13th. The toys will be given out by officers to support children who may be going through traumatic experiences. The Durham Police Department was very appreciative of Cece’s donation and the tremendous impact on the community by bringing smiles and comfort to children in need. We are so proud of Cece and setting the example for making a difference in our community! My understanding is that Officer Green is also a former Viking. Vikings Forever! Go Vikings Go!!
Engaged Learning
The Magic of African Rhythms performed Thursday, March 23, as a component to the sixth-grade world history curriculum on empires of ancient Africa. The group used authentic cultural instruments, call and response singing and led the 6th graders in dance performances. It was an hour packed with meaningful joy and learning. Sixth graders said things like, “This is the best thing we've done this year. Where can we see them again? and, I wish we could do this everyday.” What a great way to engage with the curriculum.
Bull City Lights and Sound
Voyager Chorus and Band placed 3rd in our division and took home a trophy at the Powhatan Classic competition I Virginia this past weekend! Maddie Norman received an award for best soloist. Morgan Savage and David Anderson were our showmanship winners. We are so proud of our students making it to the top 3. Next up, Charlotte, NC for states on April 22!
If you would like to watch the performance, we begin at 6:16:30 in this video.
PTSO Fundraiser
PTSO Spring Fling – April 28th
Mark your calendars and save the date. You don’t want to miss all the fun and excitement during the Voyager Spring Fling sponsored by our PTSO. Games, vendors, food trucks, and emergency vehicles for students to explore will be on campus for a fun-filled community-wide event.
Burroughs Wellcome Fund Student STEM Enrichment Program Accepting Applications Through June 9
The Student STEM Enrichment Program (SSEP) supports diverse programs with a common goal: to enable primary and secondary students to participate in creative, hands-on STEM activities for K-12 students and pursue inquiry-based exploration in Burrough Wellcome Fund's (BWF) home state of North Carolina. These awards provide up to $60,000 per year for three years. Since the program's inception in 1996, BWF has awarded 275 grants totaling $41.4 million to 130 organizations that reach more than 43,000 North Carolina students.
Learn more and apply here. Applications close on June 9 at 3 p.m.
We are all here to support your child grow, learn, and find their passion. Feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher, building administrator, or student support if we can assist your family in any way. Check out the upcoming events and all the updates below from our School Nurse, Student Support Team, Operations Manager, and Athletic Director below. Have a great weekend!
All the best,
Upcoming Dates:
4/1 - HS Prom (Mountain View Farms, Rougemont)
4/3-4/5 - 4th-8th Grade NCCI 3
4/4 - ES Art Extravaganza and Concert - 5:30
4/5 New Kinder Parent Orientation 5:30 pm
4/6 - Project Exhibition Night (4-5:30pm)
4/7 - 4/17 - Spring Break
4/17 - Teacher Workday
WEEKLY NURSES UPDATE:
ATTENTION PARENTS OF CURRENT 11TH GRADERS….
Upon entering the 12th grade, students are now REQUIRED by the State of North Carolina to have received 2 total doses of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV). Students must receive one dose of this immunization BEFORE the start of their 7th grade school year and once before the start of their 12th grade school year.
Meningococcal vaccines help protect against the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease refers to any illness that is caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. The two most severe and common illnesses caused by these bacteria include infections of the fluid and lining around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream infections (bacteremia or septicemia). Even with treatment, about 10-15 out of 100 people with meningococcal disease will die from it.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What are the immunization requirements for students entering 12th grade in 2023-2024?
Students entering the 12th grade are REQUIRED to have the following vaccine:
Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV): 2 TOTAL doses for individuals entering the 12th grade.
**Please note - If your child received the MeningB vaccine, they will still need a 2nd dose of the MCV vaccine (“MenACWY '' or brand name Menactra, Menveo or MenQuadfi) on your child’s immunization record). Please check your child’s immunization record closely to make sure there are 2 doses listed for the MCV meningococcal vaccine. **
My child received a meningococcal conjugate vaccine in 7th grade. Will he/she need to get another dose before entering the 12th grade?
Yes, as of the 2020-2021 school year, North Carolina state law requires that students receive a booster (2nd) dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine before the start of their 12th grade school year.
Are the vaccines safe?
Yes. The most common side effects are mild and include pain and swelling at the site of injection.
Where can I get vaccines and how much do they cost?
You can get this vaccine at your child’s doctor’s office, local health department, as well as many pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS. If booking an appointment at CVS or Walgreens, look for the immunization option listed as “MenACWY.” Medical insurance typically covers the cost of required immunizations. Please contact your healthcare provider to find out how much the vaccine will cost.
My child is currently in 11th grade, what should I do next?
Now is a great time to check and see if your child has received their 2nd dose of the MCV vaccine already. If they have not, be sure to book an appointment for them to receive their booster immunization before August 9th, 2023.
Contact your child’s health care provider, pharmacy or local health department to schedule an appointment to receive their 2nd booster meningococcal (MCV) vaccine. The Durham County Department of Public Health offers a vaccine clinic. For more information about their hours and appointments, please call the Immunization Clinic at 919-560-7609.
Be sure to get a Certificate of Immunization (shot record) that shows the booster MCV vaccine has been received. You can upload this document in your student’s online registration for 2023-2024 in SchoolMint or email a copy of the immunization record to the school nurse, Mrs. Skoff cskoff@voyageracademy.net. You can also drop off a paper copy to the High School front office on the first day of school. Immunization Records should be provided to the school before the start of your child’s 12th grade school year.
If you have additional questions about the required vaccines for 12th grade or how to send in your child’s vaccination record, please contact Mrs. Skoff at cskoff@voyageracademy.net
COVID-19 COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION WEEKLY UPDATE:
Our CDC COVID-19 Community Level is: LOW
Masks are welcome but are not currently required
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, including recommended booster doses
Follow recommendations for isolation if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19
Follow recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19
Guess What!: We can proudly offer one last “Voyage into Service” event this academic year after all! For those who are willing and able, please sign-up for the May 13th event with the NC Diaper Bank from 9:30-11:30a at the following link: https://x.gldn.io/e/hfSgEoGhXrb Here are the important details:
· Each participant - each parent, child, and staff member, must fill out the link above.
· All volunteers guarantee that they are not feeling ill before their shift.
· Masks are optional; however, anyone who is not vaccinated, must wear a mask at all times.
· Bring a cool drink!
· Close-toed shoes are required.
· Address: 1311 E. Club Blvd, Durham, 27704 - inside the green fence at the corner of Kiss Dr. and E. Club Blvd.
All ability levels and those age 4+ are welcome to attend! Contact Dr. Monique Link, School Social Worker at 919-433-3301 X 146 / mlink@voyageracademy.net with any questions or needs. Certificates of Participation will be awarded to everyone in attendance AND there will be one last raffle for a few sweet give-aways! Thank you in advance for your commitment to service and volunteerism!
Participate in “World Autism Month”: Every April, Autism Speaks celebrates World Autism Month, beginning with World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd). Learn more at: https://www.autismspeaks.org/world-autism-awareness-day Additionally, you are invited to wear blue and Light It Up Blue (homes, cars, businesses, yards, etc.) in recognition of and support for those who meet criteria for Autism and for those who love and care for them.
Student Support Services Newsletter: If you haven’t already, please check out our first edition of “Connections” (link below) - your new, quarterly Student Support Services Newsletter! Connections will provide parents and caregivers with relevant content focused around our school-aged children (K-12). Afterwards, we welcome you to complete a short survey to let the Student Support Services Team know how we can improve Connections or if we met your needs in a satisfactorily manner. Your feedback is important to us!
Student Support Services: Connections (March 2023)
Middle School Athletics
The baseball team (2-2) had a heartbreaking 6-5 loss last Friday as they traveled to Roxboro Community School to take on the Bulldogs in a TNAC matchup. The Vikings never gave up, scoring 4 runs with 2 outs in the bottom of the 6th inning. The team is back in action at home this afternoon as they host Bethesda Christian in a non-conference game at the Butner Athletic Park at 4pm
The girls’ soccer team (3-0) continues to roll as they took down conference opponent Roxboro Community, 6-4 this past Wednesday afternoon at home. The Vikings were led by Zoe Robinson and Whitney Woyee, who each scored a goal. Abi Anderson and Ella Garrett had two goals apiece in the win as well. Th Vikings are back in action on Monday as they travel to take on Henderson Collegiate in a TNAC matchup.
The softball team (0-0) will finally have their opening day on Tuesday, April 4th, as they travel down the road and take on Durham School of the Arts in a non-conference game, 4pm first pitch. Due to the TNAC’s small numbers in softball participation, the season starts a bit later than our baseball and soccer season. If you’re in the area on Tuesday, swing by DSA and cheer on our Vikings!
Notes and Announcements
Spring Break: April 7th – April 14th
Friday May 12, 6pm: Middle school spring athletic awards @ middle school gym
High School Athletics
The baseball team (6-2, 3-1) bounced back from their first conference loss of the season by taking down Roxboro Community School in their home matchup, 3-2 in extra innings. The win avenges the Vikings 14-4 loss earlier in the week to the Bulldogs. Jacobi Purvis (’25) had a 2-run double in the bottom of the 9th inning to lead the Vikings to victory. Sophomore pitchers Carrick Ryan and Marshall Hambrick took care of business on the mound. The duo had a combined 7 strikeouts, 6 hits, and gave up no earned runs in the win. The Vikings are back in action this afternoon as they travel to Henderson for a double header with Henderson Collegiate beginning at 4:30pm
The men’s tennis team (2-8, 2-0) opened up their conference schedule on March 27th with an 8-1 victory at home against Vance Charter. The Vikings were led by Sophomores Tyler Hinshaw and Will Baker and Junior Zach Hanspal in singles. Baker and Hanspal also won their double match as well. On Wednesday, the team hosted Eno River Academy in another TNAC match and won 6-3. The Vikings are back in action on April 5th as they travel to take on Vance Charter.
The men’s lacrosse team (0-8, 0-4) is currently on their bye weeks and will be back in action on Tuesday, April 4th as they host Roxboro Community School in a conference matchup at 6pm.
The women’s soccer team (3-3-1, 3-0) won their game this past Tuesday with a huge 1-0 win over conference rival, Roxboro Community. Alaina Bustillo (’25) scored the game’s lone goal with an assist from Corrin Reed (’25). Sophomore Claire Schnee got the start in goal stopping all 6 shots, some point blank, to secure the shutout and the win. The Vikings are back in action on Monday as they travel to Henderson Collegiate for a TNAC matchup.
The softball team (3-1, 0-0) remains hot this past week as they went 2-0 and outscored their opponents 25-10. This past Monday the Vikings traveled to Chapel Hill High School for a non-conference 11-2 win. Senior Emma Heidecker pitched a complete game giving up only 1 earned run and striking out 12 batters on the evening. McKenna Andrew (’24) had a huge night at the plate with 5 RBI’s, including a solo out of the park homerun in the 2nd inning. Andrew finished the evening on offense going 3 for 4 with 5 RBI’s and scoring 3 runs. First Year player Chesney Wilson scored 2 runs in the win as well. On Tuesday, the Vikings were back on the road with another big non-conference win, downing Franklin Academy 14-8. Heidecker again had a big night on the mound striking out 9 Patriot batters and no earned runs. Reese Minor (’25) had two hits for the Vikings, including a bases clearing double to lead the way offensively.
The men’s and women’s track team has been nothing short of dominant these past two weeks. During that time span, 17 school records have been broken (and rebroken!) by the men’s and women’s teams and both are ranked #1 in the North Carolina East Region. The following athletes have broken and established the following outdoor track records.
Carlos Green (’26) shot put and high jump
Evan Green (’23) 110 hurdles and discus
Elizabeth Lalor (’24) 800m (twice), 3200m, 1600m
Eloise Leonard (’25) 800m
Lenoira Brown (’23) 100 hurdles (twice)
Kiera Brown (’25) 100 hurdles
Glenn Stiles (’23) 300 hurdles
Bella Bunn (’25) 300 hurdles
Ryan Mottola (’24) 100m, 200m
4 x 200 boys: Carlos Green, Glenn Stiles (’23), KJ Davis (’23), Ethan Beaver (’26)
4 x 400 boys: Glenn Stiles, Parker Hinshaw (’23), KJ Davis, Ryan Mottola
Notes and Announcements
Spring Break: April 7th – April 14th
Friday May 19, 6pm: High school spring athletic awards @ high school gym
Go Vikings, Go!
Jordan Gatcomb, Athletic Director
