November 21
CMITN535 / November 21, 2024
Inside the Administrator’s Office
💐Quarter Two Second Verse, Same as First?
Dear 9th and 10th Grade Families,
Congratulations to you and your students on completing the first quarter! The start of a school year can be a time of adjustment as everyone settles into new routines and discovers strategies for success. How are things going?
In their Academic Resource class, students are regularly encouraged to reflect on a similar question. This class focuses on fostering study skills, organization, and self-regulation. By now, students should have celebrated their accomplishments for the first quarter and identified areas for growth to work on moving forward.
We deeply appreciate the support you provide your students. As a reminder:
Canvas is a valuable tool for tracking grades.
Synergy is ideal for monitoring attendance and service-learning hours.
If you have questions or concerns about your student’s progress, please don’t hesitate to contact Mr. Conde or me.
One final note: if you haven’t already, we encourage you to join our PTSO. It’s a fantastic way to stay connected and involved in your student’s school experience.
We’re excited to partner with you for a wonderful second quarter!
Best regards,
Ms. Colandrea
9th + 10th Grade Assistant Principal
Feature Stories
Student Documentary Project: A Partnership with Laurel TV
On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, our 10th Grade Academic Resource students had the exciting opportunity to collaborate with mentors from Laurel TV, including Ms. Jessica Cunning, AP Social Studies Teacher, to create documentaries for the C-SPAN StudentCam Contest. With the guidance of these industry professionals, students explored important social and political topics while gaining valuable skills in video production, research, and storytelling. This initiative was made possible with support from our Assistant Principal for Grades 9 and 10, Ms. Collandrea, and our Principal, Ms. Ozturk, who are both dedicated to providing enriching educational experiences. We can’t wait to see the outstanding documentaries our students will submit for the contest!
C-SPAN is a public service network that provides coverage of government proceedings, including sessions of the U.S. Congress, hearings, and other public affairs content. It also runs educational programs, like the C-SPAN StudentCam Contest, which invites students to create documentaries about important issues related to the U.S. government or current events. The contest encourages students to research, analyze, and produce compelling videos that reflect their perspectives on civic issues, providing a platform for young voices to engage with politics and social matters.
A Thanksgiving Tribute: Parents and Partners Thank Our Staff and Teachers
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we were honored to celebrate our dedicated staff and teachers with a heartfelt meal prepared by our incredible parents and community partners. This special occasion was a beautiful way to express gratitude for those who make a difference in our students' lives every day. A big thank you to CMIT partners Dash Food Inc., Chef Shawn from SWSSC Buildings, Solar Panels of Freedom Forever, Mr. Guevarra, PTO President Denise Rosales, UPS (Rockville & Lutherville), Mrs. Vaghella, parents from the Caribbean Student Club, and all the supportive parents of our STEM Ambassadors. Our Principal, administrators, and teachers are extremely grateful for this wonderful show of appreciation, and together, we gave thanks and celebrated the strong community that makes CMIT truly special!
CMIT North Shines at PGCPS Charter Showcase
On Saturday, November 16, CMIT North participated in the PGCPS Charter Showcase at EXCEL Academy Public Charter School, where our students’ talent and dedication were proudly displayed. Our STEM coaches ensured that our projects and displays were well represented. The Music Ensemble brought creativity, while Team Illusion showcased their robotics skills. The Ping Pong Club participated, and the Cybersecurity and Salesforce Clubs highlighted their work as part of the Certification Clubs. Students also presented their work on the Science Olympiad, demonstrating their skills and knowledge. Additionally, the student-led Henna Club and the Green School & Environmental Justice Club shared their impactful initiatives. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the hard work and passion of our students!
Beyond the Classroom: Discover the Vibrancy of Student Life
💐Caribbean Students' Association (CSA).
On November 20, 2024, the Caribbean Students' Association (CSA), a student-led club founded by Aiden Hodge, Riley Burnett, and Charles Pettus, all talented and dedicated 9th graders, demonstrated their commitment to community service by successfully raising funds for the Thanksgiving Blessing Baskets initiative. This local program in Laurel, Maryland, provides baskets filled with food and essentials to support families, schools, and organizations during the Thanksgiving season. CMIT Elementary School was one of the recipients of these baskets, reflecting the CSA’s dedication to uplifting their community. The CSA's efforts shine brightly as a new and growing group at CMIT. Aiden and Charles’s leadership and vision inspire their peers, setting a strong foundation for meaningful change in the community.
💐Team Illusion Gears Up for an Epic Visit from Rep. Glenn Ivey!
We are delighted to announce that our 4th District Representative, Glenn Ivey, will visit CMIT North High School on Monday, December 2, 2024 to support Team Illusion in our journey toward excellence in the VEX High Stakes and FRC 2025 competitions.
This milestone was driven by the efforts of Christian Sopa, an 11th-grade student, who arranged a virtual meeting on behalf of the team to introduce our club and highlight the innovative achievements of CMIT North. This visit is a pivotal opportunity to share our vision and discuss the essential materials needed to bring our ambitious projects to life.
With determination and collaboration, Team Illusion continues to represent the spirit of innovation and excellence at CMIT North. Let’s keep the momentum going as we prepare to shine on the national stage! 💡🤖
Team Illusion Members:
Lead Titans: Terry Basemore III, Christian Sopa, Nehemiah Howard, Ousman Sise, Marleni Iglesias
Nana Abena Brenya
Core Engineers, Faith Holden
Trailblazers: Adityaraj Vaghela, Luis Guevarra
Celebrating Resilience and Dedication: CMIT Students in the UMD Math Competition
The University of Maryland High School Mathematics Competition recently brought together 1,254 students from across the state for an inspiring and challenging experience. We are incredibly proud of our CMIT students' dedication and resilience in tackling high-level math problems. Special thanks to Ebuka Onwuzuligbo, Gloria Opoku, Grace Omoregbe, Munachi Onwezi, Franklyn Galley, Naomi Obajolu, Sean Osandu, and Metasebi Daniel for representing CMIT with enthusiasm and commitment.
Their participation in this rigorous competition is a testament to their growth mindset and sets a strong foundation for future challenges. We look forward to seeing them continue to build on this experience in the years to come.
Please see Ms. Keskin’s email to our students and community for further details.
Dear CMIT Academy North High School Math Community,
I hope this message finds you well! We are excited to share highlights from Part I of the University of Maryland High School Mathematics Competition, which recently brought together students from across the state for a challenging and inspiring mathematical experience.
This year, 1,254 students participated in the competition, showcasing their skills and creativity in tackling high-level math problems. Scores ranged from 12 to an impressive high of 140 out of 150, with a median score of 74. A score of 92 qualified students for Part II, and 246 students will advance.
While none of our students qualified for Part II this year, we are exceptionally proud of their dedication, resilience, and commitment to representing CMIT Academy. Taking part in such a rigorous competition is an impressive accomplishment, and each student’s efforts have laid a solid foundation for future challenges.
This experience is invaluable, equipping our students with skills and insights that will support their growth in mathematics and beyond. We look forward to seeing how they build on this achievement in the years to come.
Acknowledging Our Participants
We would like to extend a special thank you to the following students for dedicating their valuable time to participate in the competition and represent CMIT Academy:
Ebuka Onwuzuligbo
Gloria Opoku
Grace Omoregbe
Munachi Onwezi
Franklyn Galley
Naomi Obajolu
Sean Osandu
Metasebi Daniel
Your commitment to engaging in this rigorous competition is a testament to your resilience and enthusiasm for math. You took on an advanced challenge, one that goes beyond everyday coursework, and we are incredibly proud of each of you.
Resources for Continued Growth
The problems and solutions for Part I are available on the competition's website, and selected solutions are posted on YouTube. Reviewing these resources offers a great opportunity to learn new techniques and refine problem-solving strategies for future competitions.
Looking Forward
As we reflect on this experience, we look forward to building on the skills and insights gained. Our students exemplified the growth mindset we strive for at CMIT Academy, and this competition is just one step in their ongoing mathematical journey. We look forward to participating again next year and reaching new heights together.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible, and a special thank you to Dr. Ebrahimian and the competition organizers for providing such an inspiring learning opportunity.
Best regards,
Esra Keskin, MBA
Mathematics Educator | AP Statistics, Probability & Statistics, College Summit_11
Math Olympiad Team Coach
VEX Robotics Competition, November 16, 2024 CMIT rose to one of the Top winning Judges Awards
CMIT proudly soared to new heights at this year's VEX Robotics Competition, earning one of the Top Winning Judge’s Awards! From starting in 28th place last year, we have demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience, advancing to 6th place this year. Our continued dedication and teamwork have propelled us to achieve this prestigious recognition in one of the most competitive arenas. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to inspire excellence in the future!
Marine Conservation Field Trip at the National Aquarium
On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, our students had an exciting and educational experience at the National Aquarium as part of the Marine Conservation Field Trip. They explored a variety of marine life and learned about the importance of ocean conservation through interactive exhibits and expert-led sessions. This hands-on experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of marine ecosystems while discovering the critical work being done to protect our oceans. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to connect classroom learning with real-world environmental efforts, leaving them inspired to become stewards of our planet’s precious marine resources.
A Trip to the Baltimore Aquarium
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Lauren Labisi
Today I took a trip to the Baltimore National Aquarium, and it turned out to be a truly enjoyable and fun experience. The weather was very nice—sunny with a mild breeze, which made it perfect for a day outside. Across the street from the aquarium I saw a restaurant called “The Capital Grille”, where my family celebrated my mom’s 40th birthday. The aquarium’s location by the waterfront provided pretty views of the harbor. Even though I had already gone to the same aquarium with my family before, something about going with new people was exciting, and I could already sense that the trip would be fun as I started to go in.
As I entered the aquarium, I was interested in the vast array of aquatic life. One of the first exhibits I explored was the Amazon Rainforest, where I encountered a variety of tropical fish, and even large turtles swimming in through the water. The colors of the fish were vibrant and striking, creating a truly immersive experience. It was interesting to see how the animals interacted with their environment, and I learned a lot about the delicate ecosystems of rainforests and rivers.
Another thing that I was very happy about was being able to touch the stingrays and jellyfish. For stingrays it is important to only touch their backs, and not their mouths or tails, where you could get stung. For jellyfish, it is also important that you touch their backs (which are actually the tops), and not the open bottom parts, which is also where you could get stung. The stingrays felt kind of bumpy, which I found very interesting. However, the jellyfish had a very satisfyingly smooth feel, which I actually enjoyed. There were many different types of jellyfish, with ones that looked like they had tentacles to ones that almost looked like pieces of string or tissue. I was especially intrigued to learn that jellyfish have been around for over 500 million years, making them one of the oldest living creatures on Earth. The exhibit featured several species, including the impressive lion's mane jellyfish, whose tentacles can extend over 10 feet in length.
One of the most captivating parts of the aquarium was the Ocean Tank. This enormous display housed a variety of marine life, including giant sea turtles and sleek sharks that glided effortlessly through the water. The staff provided information about the animals, including the fact that some of the sharks could live for over 30 years. The tank also featured stingrays, which moved in a smooth, fluid motion near the surface, adding a sense of peace to the experience. I spent quite a bit of time observing them, amazed by their peaceful nature. Another of my favorite parts of the field trip was the large enclosed space that looked like a forest. It was there that monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds like parrots were found. It was very funny to me when one of my friends tried to converse with one of the colorful parrots by recalling the same cawing sound that the parrot made. Another part was the 4D movie, where there were special effects like wind and water spraying to depict waves. Everyone screamed as the water sprayed on them, as it came on at the most unexpected times. Another one of my favorite parts was the dolphins. Dolphins have always intrigued me, so whenever I see them I get excited. Although I didn’t get to see them do any tricks, I really liked seeing them swim so effortlessly. After seeing all of the animals at the aquarium, we got to get lunch. Lunch was a nice opportunity for me and my classmates to discuss what we saw, heard and learned from the trip.
The Baltimore Aquarium is home to a remarkable variety of aquatic life, showcasing species from all over the world. One of the standout exhibits is the Amazon Rainforest, where visitors can see piranhas, electric eels, and anacondas, highlighting the diverse ecosystems of South America. The Ocean Tank, one of the largest exhibits, features sea turtles, such as the green sea turtle, and sharks like the sand tiger shark, which can grow up to 10 feet long. The aquarium also offers unique exhibits like the Living Seashore, where guests can touch horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and other marine life, providing an up-close look at the creatures that inhabit our coastlines. In addition, the aquarium is dedicated to conservation efforts, with programs focused on protecting endangered species like the Chesapeake Bay’s native Atlantic sturgeon and preserving coral reefs worldwide. In conclusion, my visit to the Baltimore Aquarium was an unforgettable experience that offered both relaxation and education. The perfect weather, combined with the beautiful variety of aquatic life, created a day that was both enjoyable and enriching. From the colorful fish in the Amazon Rainforest exhibit to the graceful movements of jellyfish and stingrays, each moment provided a new opportunity to learn and appreciate the beauty of marine ecosystems. The aquarium’s interactive displays and helpful staff made the visit even more fun and special. It was a day well spent, and I am looking forward to the next science field trip!
CMIT Tutoring: Helping Students Thrive as the Second Quarter Begins
At CMIT, we’re committed to helping every student succeed! Our Saturday Academy provided a focused learning environment where students tackled challenging topics, reinforced essential skills, and gained confidence. For those who couldn’t attend Saturday Academy, don’t forget that weekday after-school tutoring is available! This is another excellent opportunity to stay ahead, clarify tough concepts, and prepare for success.
💻 Clicklink to sign up for tutoring, or reach out directly to the teacher offering sessions. You can also email gclarke@cmitacademy.org for more information. Don’t miss out on these valuable learning opportunities!
Tutoring Schedule:
Math
Mr. Bayram (Geometry & Geo from Math 8 - Room 324): nbayram@cmitacademy.org
Mr. Bruchey (AP Calculus & Precalculus - Room 141): nbruchey@cmitacademy.org
Mr. Chung (Geometry & Algebra 2 - Room 326): jchung@cmitacademy.org
Ms. Johnson (Quantitative Modeling & Math Coaching - Room 217): tjohnson@cmitacademy.org
Ms. Kelsey (Algebra 2 - Room 208): skelsey@cmitacademy.org
Ms. Keskin (AP Statistics & Probability - Room 140): ekeskin@cmitacademy.org
Ms. Sunbul (Geometry & Trigonometry - Room 209): asunbul@cmitacademy.org
English
Mr. Conde (All English - Room 124): jconde@cmitacademy.org
Ms. Upshaw (English 10 & All Levels - Room 221): jupshaw@cmitacademy.org
Science
Mr. Ozdem (Chemistry - Room 22): fozdem@cmitacademy.org
Ms. de Guzman (Science - Room 331): mdeguzman@cmitacademy.org
Social Studies
Ms. Regina Brown (AP & Social Studies - Room: 314: rbrown@cmitacademy.org
Mr. Andrew Vernor (AP & Social Studies - Room 142: avernor@cmitacademy.org
Science Olympiad goes to Columbia University for an Interstate Invitational Competition
The Science Olympiad team will be traveling to Columbia University in New York City for an Interstate Invitational Competition on January 25, 2025. This exciting opportunity will allow students to compete against top teams from across the region, showcasing their skills in various scientific disciplines and broadening their experience in a prestigious academic setting. We are proud of our team's dedication and look forward to their continued success at this high-level competition!
Students Shout Outs:
Geometry Student of the Week Emmanuel Nkwenti
Join us in celebrating Emmanuel Nkwenti, this week’s Geometry Student of the Week! Emmanuel has demonstrated exceptional dedication, resilience, and a passion for learning. His positive attitude and strong problem-solving skills inspire his peers every day. Congratulations, Emmanuel—keep up the amazing work!
CMIT to the City: AbdulKamil Amusa’s Photography Success!
A huge congratulations to AbdulKamil Amusa for being hired by the City of Laurel as their official photographer after an impressive interview! His journey began with a recommendation from CMIT for an internship, where his passion and talent for photography shone brightly. As an active member of our afterschool Photography Club, AbdulKamil has honed his skills and turned his passion into a professional opportunity.
We’re incredibly proud of his accomplishment and can’t wait to see the incredible moments he’ll capture in his new role. Way to represent CMIT, AbdulKamil! 📸👏
Celebrating Christian Sopa’s Outstanding Achievements!
Christian continues to shine both academically and in leadership. Not only is he consistently recognized as a standout student, but he has now topped the PSAT-NMSQT and earned a spot in the prestigious Top 10 for the 2025 United States Senate Youth Program in Maryland. His hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent are truly inspiring, and we are excited to see the incredible things he will continue to accomplish!
Cheer Club as a Sport
The Cheer Club at CMIT is an exciting part of] our athletic teams, an afterschool activities, blending athleticism, school spirit, and teamwork. Cheerleaders bring energy and enthusiasm to sports events, supporting our teams while fostering pride and unity within the school. As part of our afterschool programs, the Cheer Club offers students the chance to develop strength, leadership, and performance skills. Joining the Cheer Club means contributing to a positive school culture, building lasting friendships, and playing a key role in the success of our athletic programs and school spirit.
Department Updates
Math Department: Where Are You?
Here’s what we’re focusing on in our math classes this week:
Algebra 2
Topic: Quiz on Operations on Polynomials today!
Review polynomial rules and practice simplifying and solving.
Trigonometry
Focus: Applications of Quadratics. Dive into real-world connections and practical uses of quadratic equations.
Quantitative Methods (QM)
Starting Problem Solving with Systems of Equations (Sections 4.4–4.5) today!
Upcoming Quiz: 11/26 (4.4–4.5).
Probability & Statistics
Wrapping up Topic 4 with a review!
Upcoming Dates:
11/20: Topic 4 Exam.
12/04: Quiz on Sections 5.1–5.2.
AP Pre-Calculus
This week, we are tackling the Unit 1 Test.
Test dates: 11/22–11/25.
AP Calculus
Finishing Chapter 5 this week.
Quiz Alert: 11/22 on Chapter 5 concepts.
AP Statistics
Exploring Chapter 12 concepts.
Key Dates:
11/22: Quiz on Chapter 12.
12/03: Unit 3 MCQ Test.
12/04: Unit 3 FRQ Exam.
Upcoming Dates & Important Information
11/20: Probability & Statistics - Topic 4 Exam.
11/22: AP Pre-Calculus Unit 1 Test begins; AP Calculus Quiz on Chapter 5; AP Statistics Quiz on Chapter 12.
11/26: QM Quiz (4.4–4.5).
12/03: AP Statistics Unit 3 MCQ Test.
12/04:
Probability & Statistics Quiz (5.1–5.2).
AP Statistics Unit 3 FRQ Exam
Social Studies Spotlight
On Thursday, November 14th, Mrs. Cunning's AP Government classes engaged in a Scholar Exchange hosted by the National Constitution Center. During this dynamic 45-minute session, students explored Article I of the Constitution, which defines the powers of Congress, guided by lawyer Judith Sherwin. In this session, students explored the role Congress has in government, along with the powers the Constitution grants to them and some of their limits. Students also explored some of the Supreme Court's key decisions involving their power. At the conclusion of the meeting, students felt that it provided them with a better understanding as to why the Founding Fathers made certain decisions regarding the design and structure of Congress.
Counselor's
Opportunities Go to Those Who Are Ready!
Juniors and seniors, did you know that students who respond quickly to emails often get the first shot at scholarships, internships, and unique programs? I've already nominated several students—not just because they’re a great fit, but also because they check their emails consistently and respond immediately. Don’t miss out! Keep an eye on your inbox and stay connected to open doors to amazing opportunities.
Esra Inci, M.Ed.
Professional School Counselor
Discover Career Opportunities at the Apprenticeship Fair!
CMIT students are invited to attend the Apprenticeship Fair on November 23rd, 2024, at Crossland High School. This event will connect students with leading companies and organizations, providing valuable insights into job training programs, scholarships, and alternative career pathways in fields like construction, IT, and digital media.
Exciting Opportunity: Apprenticeship Fair Invitation!
Dear CMIT Students and Families,
We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for our high school juniors and
seniors, as well as any student interested in exploring apprenticeship programs or
internships. You are invited to attend the Apprenticeship Fair on November 23rd,
2024, at Crossland High School. This event promises to be an invaluable experience for
those considering alternative career pathways or seeking to gain practical skills and
training in various industries.
What to Expect:
Explore a Wide Range of Apprenticeship Programs:
Industries Covered: Finishing trades, construction, IT, digital media, and more!
Featured Businesses: NASA Goddard, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Joe’s Movement Emporium, local unions, and others.
Learn About:
Job training programs
Scholarships
Alternative career pathways
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, November 23rd, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Crossland High School 6901 Temple Hill Rd, Camp Springs, MD, 20748
This event is an excellent chance for students to network, gain insights into various
career fields, and explore opportunities that align with their interests and goals. We
encourage all interested students to attend and take advantage of this unique occasion.
We hope to see many of our students there, ready to embark on new careerExplorations!
Warm regards,
Abdelrahim Hussi, Career Coach,
CMIT North High School
Youth Career Connections
Employ Prince George's, Inc.
1801 McCormick Drive, Suite 400,
Largo, MD 20774
M: (240) 595-1845
Nurse's Notes: Healthy Habits for Stress-Free School Days
As the school year progresses, it’s normal to feel stressed with increasing assignments and activities. Managing stress is crucial for your overall health. Take short breaks during study sessions to refresh your mind, practice deep breathing, and engage in physical activities, even if it's just a quick walk. If you're feeling overwhelmed, our health office is a safe space to talk or find resources for stress management. Remember, taking care of your mental and physical health is key to staying focused and successful in your studies!
Ms. Isolene McDonal, CMIT Nurse
PARENTS TEACHERS ORGANIZATION (PTO)
CMIT NORTH HIGH SCHOOL SAVE THE DATE! 11/21/2024 @6PM VIA ZOOM Tigers and esteemed Families! CMIT NORTH HIGH SCHOOL PTSO will have its upcoming meeting on Thursday, November 21st from 6:00-6:40 PM via Zoom. We will unveil our main communications app for PTSO CMIT North High and discuss the planning of future events and more. Parents and students please join us via the link below or dial in: https://pgcps-org.zoom.us/j/81121451477
Attendance to these meetings is requisite to the contribution success of this 2024-2025 school year and the support to our growing young adults before they go off to College or the next milestones of their High School Journey. The support we give our children and their peers in High School is just as
important as the first time we dropped them off for their First Day of School. Please join via your phone app, dial-in, or child's laptop as we strive for a successful and memorable school year. Please mark your calendars and I look forward to seeing everyone soon! This message was sent via e-mail as well
Denise Rosales, PTO President
Announcements
CMIT takes pride in fostering a strong sense of community and service among our students and families. Through various volunteer initiatives, our students have had the opportunity to give back, learn the value of compassion, and make a meaningful impact. From organizing donation drives to participating in local events, their dedication exemplifies the spirit of service.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supports these efforts and invite parents to join us in making a difference. If you're interested in volunteering, please Parent and Community Volunteer to sign up and be part of our vibrant community of changemakers! Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected community.