Prospector Press 7/21/25

Posted Date: 7/19/25 (7:06 PM)

July 19, 2025

Prospectors,

We’ve had a fantastic first week back at Apache Junction High School! Our students came ready to learn, were responsive in class, showed up on time, and followed expectations — including keeping their cell phones put away during instructional time. It’s been an energizing start, and we’re proud of the positive tone that’s been set for the year ahead.

As we begin the school year, I also want to take a moment to discuss school safety. This week included a shelter-in-place event, and I know how unsettling these situations can be for families. Please be aware that whenever a safety measure is implemented, it’s done with one primary goal in mind: protecting our students and staff.

During a shelter-in-place, our entire administrative team and front office staff are actively managing the situation and working closely with law enforcement as necessary. Because our whole focus is on ensuring everyone’s safety, there may be a delay in communication, and at times, we may be limited in the details we can share immediately.

We understand that this can be frustrating, but we ask for your patience and trust that we are doing everything possible to keep everyone safe.

As your principal, I will always err on the side of caution. If there is ever a doubt, I will take every step necessary to protect our campus — even if it feels like "too much" in the moment. I take that responsibility very seriously, and I appreciate your support and understanding as we navigate these moments together.

Thank you for helping us kick off a strong, safe, and successful school year. I’m proud of our students, grateful for our staff, and thankful for a community that continues to partner with us in support of our school.

Principal Ginn

25-26 Bell Schedule

The 25-26 Bell Schedule has been simplified to a single schedule per week, except for testing and half-day schedules.

You can find the schedule here.

Annual Notifications

Chromebook Insurance for 25-26

Student Directory Information

AJHS Now has it's own Facebook page!

Scan the code to join our page!

Counselor's Corner

Hello AJHS Families,

Welcome back to school! At Open House on Monday, parents and guardians were able to meet their students’ teachers, and freshmen had a special orientation in the PAC. This week has been busy with schedule changes. If you need to make a schedule change, please obtain a form from the front office and return it with a parent/guardian's signature. No teacher changes will be made. After the 10th day of school, there will be no schedule changes. Electives are limited as many sections are already full.

The EVIT school year begins on Wednesday, July 23rd.

CAC Dual/Concurrent Enrollment courses begin Monday, August 18th.

Kimberly Elliot and Tayle Brink from CAC will be on campus on July 23rd to meet with Seniors enrolled in English 101/102 and CAC math to ensure they are registered for the CAC course and provide more information about the concurrent enrollment program.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with the counselors: Mrs. Powell and Ms. Fritsche

Prospector Athletics

Time to get registered for sports! All registration will be done online at https://apachejunction-az.finalforms.com/

Here you will upload your 25-26 AIA Physical Form, sign all of the compliance paperwork, upload your AIA Academy Brainbook and Opioid course completion certificates, etc.

All freshman and first time athletes must complete the Brainbook Concussion and Opioid Education certification courses one time in their high school career at https://academy.azpreps365.com/

All athletes MUST be cleared in Final Forms prior to the first day of official tryouts/practice! Questions? Email traci.smith@goaj.org or traston.yates@goaj.org

New Student Parking Location

Student Parking Update

Student parking is now located on the north side of campus. To park on campus, students must complete a parking pass application and pay the required fee at the front office.

Please note: The south side of campus is now entirely closed for student parking and pedestrian traffic.

My Ride App for 25-26

Schedule changes

Student Schedules for 2025-2026

-If your schedule is incorrect on the 14th, please complete the Course Request Change form and submit it to your counselor by the 14th. They will work diligently to review and let you know about requests.

-Your Parents must sign the form.

-Please note that we cannot accommodate teacher change requests or changes to electives if the placement matches your initial selection.

Dress Code Reminders

We must stay mindful of our student dress code as the weather heats up. Student tops should have straps and cover the stomach. No tube tops or strapless tops are permitted. Students violating the dress code can call home for a change of clothes or borrow a shirt from the nurse for the day. Thank you for your help!

Say Cheese! It's almost picture day!

Picture Day is Coming!

Mark your calendars! Picture Day will be held on Monday, July 28th. It's an excellent opportunity for students to capture memories of the school year, so be sure to have them looking their best!

Flyers with more details will be sent home on Monday, July 21st. These will include ordering information and package options.

Melinda O'Barr

Assistant Principal