Springbrook Weekly Digest

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Greetings, Students, Staff, and Families,

We continue to honor and celebrate the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans throughout this month, while also shining a spotlight on the accomplishments within the Springbrook High School community.

Be sure to check out this week’s edition of the Springbrook Weekly Digest for highlights and updates!

Athletic Events

Let’s continue to support our athletes this week! Come out and cheer on our Blue Devils. Purchase tickets by clicking GoFAN.

• Mon, Feb 10 - Boys Varsity Basketball Richard Montgomery Home (5:30 PM)

• Mon, Feb 10 - Girls Varsity Basketball Richard Montgomery Home (7:15 PM)

  See the athletic calendar in the SWD for away games.

SSL Opportunity - Month of Service at The Brook

• Donate gently used t-shirts and blankets; drop off items in room F104.
• Donate your new or gently used books to Ms. Campbell, SGA Sponsor, as we work to contribute to building home libraries for students in need.

Upcoming Events

• Support the All-Springbrook Chorus Trip to Hershey Park by indulging in some delicious treats from the Joe Corbi's fundraiser! Place your order online here or through a chorus member, accepting cash or checks - through Feb 12th.
• Dinner Night Out Fundraiser - Wed, Feb 19th from 2:45 PM - 8:00 PM at Dave's Hot Chicken at 12255 Prosperity Dr. Silver Spring, MD

Warm regards,

Stephanie Valentine

Principal

Springbrook High School

February is recognized as Black History Month, a time to celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history. This month serves as an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of individuals who have fought for justice, equality, and civil rights, and to acknowledge their impact on shaping the cultural, political, and social landscape of the United States.

Born into slavery in Talbot County, Maryland, in 1818, Frederick Douglass rose to become one of the most influential voices in American history. A towering figure in the abolitionist movement, he was a gifted orator, a fearless advocate for justice, a pioneering newspaper publisher, and the author of the groundbreaking Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave.

Douglass not only fought for the end of slavery but also championed equality for all. His prominence earned him the distinction of being the most photographed American man of the 19th century—an intentional strategy to control his own image and defy racist stereotypes. In another historic first, he became the first Black U.S. Marshal.

Though Douglass estimated he was born in February 1818, he chose to celebrate his birthday on February 14th, a date now recognized as "Douglass Day" by many. Were he alive today, he would be turning 207 this Friday.

Check out the DC area for several events celebrating Douglass Day 2025 this Friday:

Library of Congress Douglass Day 2025

UMD Douglass Day 2025

Georgetown University Douglass Day 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Springbrook High School’s very own Tiffany Egwim and Milo Richards will be featured at the 10th Annual ACT-SO Poetry Read-In and Visual Art Showcase on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, MD. Springbrook takes special pride in being the only high school with two featured students, a testament to the exceptional talent and creativity in our Blue Devils community.

This year’s event will include the Langston Hughes Family Museum and Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness our students shine on a regional stage!

Spring sports start on March 1st and registration is open NOW! Athletes must register on ParentVUE and also have a valid MCPS physical on file to participate. Some teams are doing preseason conditioning as well, as noted on this calendar. Spring sports include baseball, softball, allied softball, lacrosse, volleyball, gymnastics, tennis, and track & field.

On Wed, Feb 5th, the Springbrook Wrestling Team celebrated 10 outstanding seniors before their match against Whitman HS. This decorated group of grapplers has contributed immensely to the program's success over the years, showcasing their determination and resilience on and off the mat.

As these seniors prepare to embark on their next chapter, we couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished. The coaching staff and scholar-athletes' legacy of excellence and leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Springbrook HS Community.

Congratulations, Blue Devils! 💪🤼‍♂️🔵

Springbrook Wrestling Team Seniors: Francis Gomes, Roy Banegas, Noal Demisse, Djorkenson Jean, Jalil Kouyate, Christopher Mendoza Marquez, Tinsu Molugata, Somoy Rozario, Sean Torrez Somarriba and Lincoln Wendel.

On Monday, February 3rd, the Blue Devils hosted the Watkins Mill Wolverines in a thrilling weather-postponed matchup—and they did not disappoint! Springbrook took control of the game early, delivering a commanding performance that ended with a decisive 81-58 victory.

The Blue Devils were powered by an all-star effort from Cade Campbell, who filled the stat sheet with 18 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals, showcasing his all-around excellence. Bryan Hinds was flawless from the floor, going perfect from the field to rack up 16 points and 5 assists, while Jordan Garner made his presence felt with 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals—a true display of hustle and versatility.

Some of our outstanding Zipporah Lindsey, Grace Dedegbe, Vynou Philogene, Rahul Sheth, and Minda Coulibaly—visited Cannon Road Elementary School recently to speak with the 4th-grade classes!

Our Blue Devil scholar-athletes shared their experiences about the thrills of competing in sports, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the importance of balancing athletics with academics. Their words were filled with motivation, wisdom, and encouragement, showing our future Blue Devils just what it takes to succeed!

#BlueDevilPride #FutureChampions #StudentAthletes #InspiringTheNextGeneration 💙🎉

Last weekend, the Blue Devils Swim Team made waves at Divisional with an outstanding performance! Our Blue Devils set numerous personal bests and delivered incredible swims across the board. The boys swim team earned an impressive 3rd-place finish, while the girls swim team secured 5th place —a tremendous achievement for Springbrook! Next stop Metros!

our top qualifiers will represent Springbrook at the 2025 Washington Metropolitan Interscholastic Swimming and Diving Championships, one of the most prestigious high school swim meets in the region. Congratulations to our Metro qualifiers:

• 200 Freestyle Relay – Desi Iscoa, Tiffany Egwim, Tessa Egwim, Avery Guyton
• 50 Yard Freestyle – Tiffany Egwim
• 100 Yard Butterfly – Tiffany Egwim
• 100 M Yard Butterfly – Thien Trieu Nguyen
• Tessa Egwim the only freshman representing Springbrook in both swim and dive

The qualification for Metro's is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and talent of our swimmers. A special shout out to new head coach, Michelle' D'Costa, whose guidance and leadership have been instrumental in the team's success this season. 🏊‍♂️💙🎉

Shown above, left to right: Tessa Egwim, Tiffany Egwim, Desi Iscoa, and Avery Guyton.

02/10/2025 Monday 5:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Richard Montgomery Home

02/10/2025 Monday 7:15 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Richard Montgomery Home

02/14/2025 Friday 5:30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Blake Away

02/14/2025 Friday 7:15 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Blake Away

02/15/2025 Saturday 9:00 AM Swim & Dive 4A/3A North Region Championship Away - Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center

02/18/2025 Tuesday 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Wheaton Home

02/18/2025 Tuesday 6:00 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Wheaton Away

02/18/2025 Tuesday Indoor Track 4A STATE CHAMP - PG Sports & Learning Complex Away

02/21/2025 Friday 6:00 PM Boys Varsity Basketball Einstein Home

02/21/2025 Friday 6:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball Einstein Away

Take a moment out of your busy schedule to sit back, relax, and dive into a great read. Each week, we feature a new, enjoyable book for you to explore. Don’t miss this week’s pick—start reading today and rediscover the joy of a good book!

American Wings follows a group of determined Black Americans: Cornelius Coffey and Johnny Robinson, skilled auto mechanics; Janet Harmon Bragg, a nurse; and Willa Brown, a teacher and social worker. Together, they created a flying club and built their own airfield south of Chicago. As the U.S. hurtled toward World War II, they established a school to train new pilots, teaching both Black and white students together and proving, in a time when the U.S. military was still segregated, that successful integration was possible.

Featuring rare historical photographs, American Wings brings to light a hidden history of pioneering Black men and women who, with grit and resilience, battled powerful odds for an equal share of the sky.

After reading American Wings, continue your learning by reading The Tuskegee Airmen by Christine Zuchora-Walske .
“John Robinson was not a Tuskegee Airman. But it is likely that without his efforts, there would have been no Tuskegee Airmen at all" (41).

We are thrilled to announce that Nathan Abiy has been named a Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Finalist! As a Young Scholar since 7th grade, at Francis Scott Key MS, Nathan’s application was reviewed ahead of the regular application period, and he has been awarded a full scholarship to attend the prestigious University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.

This past summer, Nathan further distinguished himself by conducting research at the University of Connecticut as part of the Young Scholars Program. In addition to his academic achievements, Nathan is a dedicated senior in the Academy of Information Technology, showcasing his passion for learning and innovation.

For current juniors who meet the qualifications, the Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program application will open in August 2025 via the Common App. This is an incredible opportunity for high-achieving students seeking to reach their full potential.

Congratulations to Nathan on this outstanding accomplishment and best wishes for his continued success at Michigan! Go Blue! 💙〽️

Dillen Che has acheieved a remarkable milestone by winning the esteemed Louis Stokes Education Scholarship Award. The Stokes Program is open to high school seniors, who are planning to major in computer science, computer/electrical engineering, or Chinese or Russian languages.

Throught the Stokes Program, students:

• Provided a significant year-round salary
• Receive up $30,000 per year to support their college education
• Guaranteed job each summer during college years and even post-graduation

Dillen is a 2025 Academy of Information Technology (AOIT) student. He is gaining invaluable experience through his internship with the Department of Defense. Looking ahead, Dillen plans to further his education at the University of Maryland.

For those interested in Stokes Program, the 2026 Stokes application will open on September 1, 2025.

Graduation cap and gown packages are available for students and families to purchase. Choose from a variety of options designed to fit your budget. For more details, refer to the flyer shown below.

How to Purchase Packages

• Packages can be purchased online using the QRcode below.
• In addition to purchasing, families must complete the Google form to ensure we have the correct cap and gown size for each student.

For more information about, senior packages, please contact Mr. Michael Wyche at Michael_J_Wyche@mcpsmd.org.

Let's get ready to celebrate this milestone in style! 🎉🎓

We are thrilled to share some exciting news about one of our incredibly talented students, Isaiah Montgomery! Though he may not boast about it himself, Isaiah has been recognized as a Regional Gold Key Winner in the prestigious Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for his outstanding piece, Embracing Imperfections.

Winning a Gold Key is a remarkable achievement, as it signifies excellence at the regional level and advances his work to the national competition. We eagerly await the results and hope to celebrate even more success in the near future!

Congratulations, Isaiah! Your talent and dedication inspire us all. 🎨🏆 #ScholasticArtAwards #GoldKeyWinner #SpringbrookProud

Who Can Apply?
Montgomery County High School Students (both public and private).

Exciting Prizes Await!
Participants have the chance to win a MacBook Air, an Apple Watch, an $800 Visa gift card, and much more! Additionally, all students who enter the contest will earn 5 SSL hours.

How to Apply:
Visit our website: Heads Up Phones Down Content

Contest Details:
Students are challenged to create a 30-second video PSA that raises awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and walking. Participants can use platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube, or their phone's film feature to create their submissions. Sharing your work on social media is encouraged! Both individual and group submissions are welcome, though prizes will vary.

Important Dates:

• Contest Opens: February 1st
• Submission Deadline: February 28, 2025, by 11:59 PM

Visit Our Website for More Information:
Heads Up Phones Down Content

Remember: 5 SSL hours + amazing prizes = a step towards safety!
Grand Prizes: MacBook Air & $800 Visa Gift Card!

Questions?

Email us at pedestrian.safety@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Students must complete their application on a computer, as the process takes time due to required documents. All applicants must submit their materials by April 1st.

Key Points for Students:

Before you begin, ensure you have the following documents ready:

1. Academic Documentation – A recent (unofficial) transcript (High School or College) OR a Statement of Satisfactory Progress if enrolled in a non-credit course.
2. Recommendation Form – You must obtain one (1) completed Recommendation Form from someone who knows you academically or professionally (this cannot be a relative or personal friend). Email the 2025 Recommendation Form link to your recommender for submission.
3. Rental Subsidy Provider Information – Provide the name and contact details of your Rental Subsidy Provider Agency. Your permanent address must be in Montgomery County, Maryland.
4. HOC Tenants Only – Complete and upload the Release of Information - HOC - 2025.pdf.

🔹 Be sure to provide clear, detailed responses to all application questions.

STEM Ready supports students in Montgomery County on their path to earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mechanical engineering, or applied biotechnology from UMBC-Shady Grove, the program aims to diversify the region’s workforce by empowering students traditionally underrepresented in STEM to pursue careers in this field. STEM Ready is a collaboration between Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), Montgomery College (MC), The Universities at Shady Grove (USG), and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), along with local and regional industry representative

This program is for the Class of 2027. The application is due February 28, 2025

Students who wish to apply for STEM Ready are encouraged to attend a virtual information session. Upcoming session will be held on Thursday, February 13 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Register using this link https://shadygrove.umbc.edu/info-sessions/

Is STEM Ready Right for Me? If you agree with the following statements, STEM Ready is the program for you!

• I am interested in pursuing a degree in computer science, mechanical engineering, or applied biotechnology.
• I plan to follow the MCPS -> MC -> UMBC-Shady Grove pathway.
• I want to layer my high school experience with meaningful career experiences.
• I hope to join the STEM industry in the greater Montgomery County area after graduation.

Apply to STEM READY using this link https://shadygrove.umbc.edu/stem-ready

As part of the continuing "Meet a Pro" Series from the Springbrook MoCo CAP Champion Team, students are invited to come on Tuesday, February 18 during lunch in E202 to meet professionals from the University of Maryland's Fire Risk Alliance - Department of Fire Protection Engineering

On Thursday, February 13, students will be able to meet our special guest, a pediatric nurse. Students who are social and investigative and would love to explore what it's like to work with children can sign up using the QR code for our second Meet A Pro Speaker Series. We will be in the CCIC during lunch.

Genesys Works is seeking motivated high school juniors eager to explore careers in business and technology while gaining valuable real-world experience. This paid internship begins with an 8-week summer training program that includes:

• College & career preparation
• Industry-recognized certification
• Professional networking opportunities

Upon successful completion of the summer training, students will be placed in corporate internships that provide hands-on learning and mentorship.

For more information, visit Ms. Brown in G202 or email Nicole.B.Brown@mcpsd.net.

Apply now: Genesys Works Application

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to jumpstart your career!

This past week, we proudly recognized our amazing counseling team during National School Counseling Week! Their support, guidance, and dedication leave a lasting impact on our students, families, and staff every day. To honor their hard work, our administration hosted a special breakfast as a token of appreciation.💙👏

I'd like to extend a special thank you to Ms. McCuiston, Ms. Curtis, Ms. Campbell, Ms. Oakley, and Ms. Saunders for their assistance in organizing this thoughtful celebration for our counselors.

#NationalSchoolCounselingWeek #ThankYouCounselors #WeAppreciateYou

Have you experienced the loss of a loved one within the past five years?

Do you need a safe, supportive space to share your experiences and connect with others who understand?

Springbrook High School is partnering with Good Grief to offer a grief counseling group for students. This group will meet during the school day for eight sessions and is designed to provide comfort, understanding, and support.

We need 5 to 8 students to form the group, and participation is completely voluntary—you are not required to speak unless you feel comfortable.

How to Join:

If you're interested, please inform your Counselor or email Michelle Wright, Counselor Intern, at Michelle_D_Wright@mcpsmd.org.

Please share this opportunity with any scholar who may benefit from this information. You are not alone—we are here to support you. 💙

Take a break from cooking and support the National Honor Society's fundraiser at Dave's Hot Chicken located at 12255 Prosperity Dr., Suite 113, Silver Spring, MD on Wednesday, February 19th from 2:45pm-8:00pm. Please mention Springbrook or show the flyer and Springbrook will receive a portion of the funds raised. Please contact Mr. Younghans at barrett.younghans@mcpsmd.net or Mrs. Thompson at Catherine_M_Thompson@mcpsmd.org if you have any questions. Thank you for supporting NHS's mission to elevate a culture of scholarship, service, leadership, and character!

Support the All-Springbrook Chorus Trip to Hershey Park by indulging in some delicious treats from the Joe Corbi's fundraiser! Your purchase of pizza kits, calzones, cookie dough, snacks, and desserts will directly contribute to our competition at Hershey Park this spring.

• The fundraiser runs through February 12th, so don’t miss out!

• You can place your order online here or through a chorus member, accepting cash or checks.
• Deliveries will take place on March 14 after school.

Thank you for your generous support!

The PTSA is now in action, aimed at supporting student success.

All families, students, and staff are invited to join the PTSA.

Increasing membership allows us to provide educational resources, advocate for key issues, and strengthen our school community.

Membership requires only the annual dues, and how you choose to contribute—through time or money—is up to you. Every bit helps support children's potential.

REMINDER -The class with the most memberships will receive a reward! Join now and check your status at: Givebacks Membership.

Safety is extremely important to our Blue Devil Community!

Blue Devils, please remember the SBHS See Something, Say Something Initiative. If you've seen something concerning at school (e.g., student in crisis, harrassment, illegal substances, weapons, etc.) please use the QR code to report the incident. Providing details, location, and timeframe is helpful.

Email: Stephanie_Z_Valentine@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/springbrookhs/
Location: 201 Valley Brook Drive, Silver Spring, MD, USA
Phone: 240-740-3800
Twitter: @SBHSPrinc