Northwest News

Dear Northwest High School Families,

As we come together this week, it’s important to recognize that tomorrow marks the one-year anniversary of the events of October 7th and the subsequent conflict in Gaza. We know this day may stir difficult memories and emotions for many, both in our school and the wider community. Our thoughts are with those who have been directly impacted and those who continue to experience the effects of this tragedy. In times like these, the strength of our community is seen in how we support and care for one another. Please remember that we are here as a resource if you or someone you know is in need of support. Let’s continue to uphold the values of compassion and unity that make Northwest such a special place.

The team at Victor O’Neill Studios would like to thank your school for a great picture day! If your school provided emails to the VOS team, be on the lookout for an email from Victor O'Neill Studios. If you do not see it in your inbox, check the spam/junk folder. Otherwise, you can email underclass@vosphoto.com. Any student who has not had a chance to order, it’s not too late!

We are reviving the LIT MAG. Come join us for the Creative Writing Club on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in room 250. See Ms Koutsos for details in room 250.

A reminder that ALL students must wear and display their IDs while on campus. If you need an ID, a lanyard or a clear ID holder, stop by the main office.

A reminder that MCPS will pay for exam registrations for students enrolled in the AP course and registered by November 15, 2024. Students will register for their exams, through AP classroom in their AP classes.

• Students registering late, canceling the exam, or not present to take the AP exams will be responsible for the AP fee of $41.75/exam.
• Students who elect to take an AP exam and are NOT enrolled in the corresponding AP course will be responsible for paying the AP exam fee of $94.
• Students enrolled in an AP course for the 2024-2025 school year are expected to participate in the corresponding AP exam.
• Schools are NOT permitted to charge an administrative fee for AP exams.

In this week's newsletter, there are just a few new items. Please see them listed below and check out the details in the newsletter.

• Maryland Seal of Biliteracy Exam
• Athletes Give Back
• Still need to purchase a yearbook?
• Think Pink Club and Bake Sale
• A Class of 2026 Fundraiser at Tortacos
• Think Pink Fundraiser at Tortacos
• The Chick-Fil-A Battle of the Schools Fundraiser
• College and Career Updates
• The Upcoming College Fair
• Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards
• Financial Aid Workshops

• Athletics and Events Calendar for the Week (October 7 - October 13)

There are some important, and timely reminders this week. Check them out below.

• Hispanic Heritage Month happenings
• The Northwest Free Market
• Picture Ordering
• Parking Permits Reminder
• Homecoming Information
• Date, Time, How to buy a ticket
• Digital Library Information
• Important early dismissal and absence procedures
• Our upcoming Diversity Night
• Our new Cell Phone Policy
• Our new ID policy
• The new policy for chromebooks, chromebook chargers and the costs for families to replace them
• An opportunity to join the Principals' Advisory Council
• The Free Store
• A call to support our Booster Club
• A call for submitting photos for this year's yearbook
• ParentVue resource
• A call for parents to join our parent councils
• Ways to join the PTSA and Booster Clubs
• College T-Shirt Tuesdays
• Class spirit gear

We thank you for your continued support and trust. Let's make it a great week!

The Maryland Seal of Biliteracy Exam which recognizes and rewards excellence in language learnings, will be administered at Northwest High School for Seniors on October 30, 2024, and for Juniors on January 27, 2025. The test is free for Seniors, and Juniors pay $21.

Student Registration Link: https://bit.ly/SealRegisterMCPS25

An Interest Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, during lunch in Room 202.

Seniors’ registration deadline is October 25, 2024, and Juniors’ registration deadline is January 13, 2025. For more information, contact Mr. Sani Adamou the World Languages RT in Room 200 or via email at Sani_M_Adamou@mcpsmd.org

Still Need to Purchase a Yearbook?

Purchase Link

The first sale price is $95 (limited amount); the rest are $100. $105 in person at distribution

Seniors must select the picture that they want to appear in the yearbook by December 2. Or the photo company will select for you. We have a community upload spot for candids. Please upload any pics of your student(s) that may end up as features in the yearbook.

Purchase Yearbook Space for Your Senior!!

If you would like to submit a business ad, these prices apply as well.

Personal Ads (upload text and pics online):

Early Bird Price until 10.31

Full page: $275

½ page:$145

¼ page:$85

⅛ page:$50

Baby Pic ad Link to pay

Link to Upload pic and quote - $25

Purchase this as an add-on when purchasing a yearbook in the 1st link. THEN upload quote and pic to the 2nd link to the left.

Final Deadline for all ad space: 1.20.2025

Submit a baby picture of your senior along with a quote that conveys a life philosophy. Quotes are subject to admin approval.

We still have the 2024 spring supplement available for pick up from the vestibule of the main office between 7:45-3 pm OR in room 250 or 261 before school, during lunch, and after school until 2:45.

Seniors With Siblings. It's a yearbook tradition. Help us keep it alive! Please complete this form to be included in the yearbook page. FREE!

Want a copy of the Panoramic Pic of the Entire Senior Class?

Purchase here. ($20)

• UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Creating a College List With Affordability in Mind with Collegiate Directions

  Wednesday, October 9th | 6:30 p.m.

  There’s so much to consider when creating your college list, and for most students, affordability is an important factor. Not sure how to determine which schools fit your budget? Considering public and private options? Trying to estimate costs after financial aid? Whether you have a complete college list or are just getting started, this workshop will help you estimate college costs using reliable resources, understand various sources of financial aid, and build a college list that includes affordable options.

  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

  Financial Aid Basics: Understanding How Financial Aid Can Help You Pay for College with Collegiate Directions

  Wednesday, October 23rd | 6:30 p.m.

  With all the changes to the FAFSA recently and the evolving state-based financial aid for undocumented students, it can be hard to get familiar with everything you need to do to prepare for paying for college. Join us for this free webinar at which you'll be able to get a jump on how you can be in the best position to maximize your financial aid options.

  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

  A Hispanic Parent Night: Financing College Information Session is being held in conjunction with that event. The Parent Night will be held from 6–7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 15 W. Gude Drive, Third Floor, Potomac Room.

  The event will include presentations from Beverly Coleman, director of the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center at Montgomery College (MC), and Rhonda McLaren-Scott, financial aid outreach counselor at MC, to discuss options for financing college. Attendees will learn about the Federal Student Aid Identification (FSA ID) number and have an opportunity to create one during the workshop. Spanish-speaking interpreters from MCPS and MC will be on site.

  Hispanic Parent Night Financing College Registration

  Hispanic Parent Night—Financing College

  Noche de Padres Hispanos - Cómo Pagar por Estudios Universitarios

  In addition, all high schools hold free financial aid nights for MCPS students and families.

  
  

  JAG Jobs: All job opportunities are published in the latest Jag JOBS Bulletin available to download at any time from our College Career web page ‘Jag Jobs’ under College & Career Quick Links. https://bit.ly/3sKZRVw.

  APPLICATION NOTICE for STEAMFITTERS’ APPRENTICESHIP for the HEATING, AC, REFRIGERATION PROCESS PIPING & ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS FIELDS. Applications accepted only starting November 1 at 8 am and will close on November 30 at 4 pm. Details can be found at https://602training.org/. Visit 602training.org/apply-now to apply. Questions should be directed to 301.341.1555.
  

  NEW: College Career Calendar → High School Visits:

  For a complete list of all college career high school visits use Naviance or view the Jag Events Calendar or our website | Students must register for all high school college career visits using their Naviance account. Select colleges → Select college visits

  Monday, October 7:

  • Florida Institute of Technology @ 9:40 am
  • Neumann University @ 10:30 am
  • University of Rhode Island @ 1 pm

  Tuesday, October 8:

  • Plymouth State University @ 8:45 am
  • Salisbury University @ 9:40 am
  • Drexel University @ 12:05 pm

  Wednesday, October 9:

  • Dartmouth College @ 10:45 am

  Students who attend Montgomery College and do not have a college class during the visit time are welcome to attend. Based on the honor system, there is no attendance taken for those students.

  If there is ever a question or concern, please reach out to: Rochelle_Davis@mcpsmd.org.

  Money Matters → Scholarship Highlights & Reminders:

  
  For a complete list of scholarships, including details for those listed below, download the latest publication of our Jag Scholarships ‘Apply Now’ Bulletin on the web. Post date refers to the first date published in the Jag Scholarships ‘Apply Now’ Bulletin. Additional Northwest High School Scholarship Resource (PDF format)

  SCHOLARSHIP REMINDER: from The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Mu Nu Chapter (Montgomery County, MD). The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Mu Nu Chapter (Montgomery County, MD) wants to recognize graduating senior African American males during their November 13, 2024, Achievement Week. Last year, the chapter gave $32,000 in scholarships and celebrated 32 African American male Montgomery County Public Schools students.

  The Achievement Week application is linked HERE. The top 4 students can win a $5,000 scholarship to attend the college of their choice. The deadline for the Achievement Week application is October 20.

  1. This program is only for graduating high school African American male seniors.
  2. A transcript must accompany their application and a minimum 3.5 weighted GPA and/or 3.0 unweighted GPA is required for Achievement Week honors. All students will receive a certificate and a monetary award. The top 4 students will receive a $5000 scholarship.
  3. The deadline to email the application/essay to Shawn Wilkerson is October 20, 2024. The application/essay must be sent to wilkywilk615@hotmail.com.

  Students can also apply to compete in the International High School Essay Contest by writing an essay on the topic identified. The local essay contest winner will receive a $200 check at Achievement week on November 13, 2024.

  1. No GPA is required for the essay contest. The local essay contest winner will receive $200 and will compete for a $5,000 national award. The deadline to submit the high school essay is October 31.

  SCHOLARSHIP REMINDER: HISPANIC HERITAGE YOUTH AWARDS. SENIORS. Applicants must be of Hispanic heritage. GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale). Grants up to $4,000 available. We are looking for students who have made remarkable achievements in the classroom, made an impact in their communities, and demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following categories:

  Community Service ➧ Education ➧ Engineering ➧ Entrepreneurship & Business ➧Green Sustainability ➧Healthcare & Science ➧ Media & Entertainment ➧ Public Service & Social ➧ Justice ➧ Technology

  DEADLINE TO APPLY: NOVEMBER 3 | Post 25 September 2024 |

  SCHOLARSHIP REMINDER: The Jefferson Scholars Foundation offers Jefferson Scholarships for undergraduate study at the University of Virginia. Students must be nominated by their high school to complete. If selected as the Northwest nominee, you will be asked to complete the online Jefferson Scholar application, provide a recommendation, and upload a photo. UVA Jefferson Scholars information can be found HERE. FAQ's HERE. Submit this Google Form no later than October 10. The one nominee will be selected by the end of October and will have until November 13 to complete the UVA Jefferson Scholars application. | DEADLINE TO REQUEST NOMINATION: OCTOBER 10

  
  
  

As a reminder, beginning tomorrow, Monday, September 16, all cars driven by students must display a valid 2024-2025 parking permit and be parked in their assigned space. Cars that are parked in the incorrect space, or do not have a valid parking permit, may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. If you would like to a pickup or turn in a student parking permit application, please go to the Business Office (room 322) before school, during lunch, or after school until 2:45 p.m.

If you plan to pick up your child for early dismissal, please arrive before 2:15 p.m. To ensure a smooth process, send a written note or email with your child’s full name, student I.D. number, and the full name of the parent or guardian picking them up. Upon arrival at school, the parent or guardian must present identification at the attendance office. Without prior notification via email or note, please be aware that it may take 10 to 15 minutes to locate and dismiss your child from class.

For absences to be excused, your child must bring a note from a parent or guardian that includes the student’s full name, I.D. number, and the parent or guardian’s full name. If your child will be absent for more than three days due to travel, please provide a letter in advance detailing the dates of absence and the reason for missing school. This will help us maintain accurate attendance records and support your child’s learning during their time away.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us manage early dismissals and absences efficiently!

All electronic devices (e.g., smart phones, iPods, etc.) must be turned off and out of sight in classrooms and during class time, unless students have been given permission by the teacher to use the device for instructional purposes. Items will be confiscated if students do not adhere to the school policy, and confiscated items must be picked up by a parent. Northwest will assume no responsibility or liability for lost, stolen, or confiscated devices or for the unauthorized use of any such device.

*For a copy of the agreement to this policy that ALL students are expected to sign is linked here.

In order to maintain a safe and secure school environment, all staff and students are required to wear their ID badges at all times while on campus.

Key Points:

• ID Visibility: Your ID must be worn around your neck and visible at all times. We will be providing a lanyard for all students the first week of school.

• Replacement: If you lose your ID or it becomes damaged, you can get a new ID for $5 from the security office.

• School Events: Students must have their school ID to attend all school sponsored events.

*For a copy of the agreement to this policy that ALL students are expected to sign is linked here.

The focus of the PAC is to give students regular opportunities to provide important input and feedback to the principal on policy and climate issues facing our school and to weigh in on decisions that impact us all as members of our school community. All students, regardless of previous leadership experiences or GPA, are invited to apply.

In order for the PAC to be successful, we need a wide range of voices represented. Most PAC meetings will be held during the school day through Jag PAWS time or during lunch. On some rare occasions, an after-school meeting may be required. If you would like to be considered for membership on the 2023-2024 PAC, please complete this brief application. Applications are due by October 4, 2024. All members will be notified by October 25, 2024.

Do you have any school supplies you no longer need? The Free Store would love your donations! We take all gently used school supplies, but at the start of the year, we especially need backpacks, composition books, spiral notebooks, calculators, and test prep books. Please bring items to the front office or to The Free Store in room 264. We will also have a table at Back to School Night.

Once school starts, The Free Store is open most days at lunch in room 264 and is available to all NW students and staff. Thank you for reusing materials, and thank you for your support.

Fall is here and the Jags are back in action!

The NW Athletic Department and the Booster Club want to provide our athletes and fans with an awesome experience at each and every home game. To make that happen, we need your help to VOLUNTEER at the concessions stand. Parent and community member support is crucial to have a successful year! Please note all volunteers must be adult volunteers. If we do not have volunteers, we will not be able to open the concessions stand.

Pick a slot or two or three...because WE NEED YOU!

There are multiple sports events to choose from. We want you to watch your athletes compete so please come help at other games so those parents can watch their athletes. Don't have a child playing a sport? Come out anyway. It's a great way to connect with other NWHS parents! Remember, concessions volunteers get into the games for free and ALL proceeds go directly toward supporting all of our students! Please put the sport/club you represent in the Comment section!

Thank you from your 2024-2025 Concessions Committee!

Questions? Email Alida Kodjanian at akodjanian@gmail.com or text 202-903-6200.

What is ParentVue?

ParentVUE provides a way to view all school related information and data for all your students. Register for athletics, special programs, communicate with teachers and verify your student information annually. For more information, please check out the "quick guides" linked below in various languages.

ParentVUE Quick Guides for Parents

• English
• Spanish
• Korean
• Chinese
• Amharic
• Portuguese
• French
• Vietnamese

ParentVUE Support Guide (link to translated version is in the footer of every page)

We hope that you and your family will join us for future events and that you will consider becoming a part of the Northwest Hispanic Parent Council, African American Parent Council and the Asian American Parent Council. Please take some time to respond to this questionnaire and let us know how you would like to become involved. This questionnaire has been translated into Spanish.*

Please contact the following administrators for more information about the Hispanic, African American, and Asian Parent Councils at Northwest High School.

Hispanic Parent Council: Nyurka_I_Morales@mcpsmd.org

African American Parent Council: Tara-dee_S_Henry@mcpsmd.org

Asian American Parent Council: Danielle_M_Abdelsalam@mcpsmd.org

It's a long-standing tradition at Northwest for each grade to wear their assigned CLASS COLOR on Pep Rally days! Each class sits in a designated section at the rallies so make an impact for YOUR CLASS by wearing your grade level color and make your presence known! Although participation with wearing class colors is optional, we hope you will join in the FUN!

The grade level colors are as follows:

Freshmen (Grade 9): YELLOW

Sophomores (Grade 10): GREEN

Juniors (Grade 11): RED

Seniors (Grade 12): BLUE

You can wear any clothing and/or accessories in your assigned color as long as you adhere to the school dress code. You can opt to wear clothing that you already own in your grade level color, you can purchase a shirt from the PTSA/Booster Club website for $8: http://www.nwhsptsa.org/shop (available sizes and quantities are limited), or you can purchase a T-shirt in your color at Michael's or Joanne's (the cost is usually around $5) and personalize with fabric markers or paint pens! The possibilities are endless to show your #JagPride!

Email: Scott_E_Smith@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://northwestjags.org
Location: 13501 Richter Farm Road, Germantown, MD, USA
Phone: (240)740-7100
Twitter: @NorthwestJags