Watkins Mill High School
Home of the Wolverines - Building Greatness
10/20/24--10/26/24
Dear Watkins Mill HS community,
I hope everyone had enjoyed this weekend's weather and had a restful weekend. Our PSAT Day and Senior Unity Day was a success. We had 300 students take the PSAT, which is the most in 3 years, and the students that did not participate in the PSAT spent the day doing wellness activities, earned SSL hours, and enjoyed their Senior Unity Day. Thank you to all those that made the day possible.
If your student missed the PSAT, please have them check their email and check the announcements for information on the make up days.
There are 10 school days left before the end of the first marking period. Students your attendance and being on time is important to be successful in your classes. Take these last two week to connect with your teachers, catch up and make up any missing assignments you may have.
Students are required to bring their school IDs to school with them everyday and to have them visibly on them while in school. This week we will be checking IDs in the morning during arrival. We will also distribute IDs to students that do not have one or lost theirs. Families, please help us in reminding your students to bring their IDs to school everyday.
Mental Health Awareness Week is October 21-26! We're hosting daily activities to promote student well-being, including mental health facts at the Skybridge, de-stress coloring sessions, a Relaxation Station, and more.
Ninth graders have an opportunity to go on a college visit to American University or Coppin State University. Freshman interested in going on the college visit please visit the Counseling Department or see Mrs. Kessler for permission slips. Also, permission slips are below in our newsletter.
Sophomores and juniors only are invited to a field trip to the Apprentice Job Fair. This is for students with an interest in work based learning and not currently in an apprenticeship. There is ONLY SPACE for 15 students! It will take place at Montgomery College Rockville Campus on November 19th. If interested have applications in by Nov 8th. Link to Application: https://forms.gle/NSDzXwzgpWiB1rkh9
Don't forget that to fill out our Needs Assessment survey. Caregivers survey- https://forms.gle/5TZo5fRhTYeckbwM7 As a thank you for your participation, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a raffle to win gift cards and self-care items!
Thank you for all you do for our students and community,.
Sincerely,
Vilma Nájera
Principal, WMHS
Calendar
October 9 - 10th and 11th Grade Family/Caregiver Night
October 16 - PSAT Day
Senior Parent Night
October 18 - No school for students - Professional Day for teachers
October 19 - Family Food Market
November 1 - End of Marking Period/Early Release Day
November 4 - No school for students - Grading and Reporting
November 5 - Schools and Offices closed - Elections
November 25 & 26 - Early Release Days
November 27-29 - Systemwide Closure
Administrative Information
Tardy Policy
Our teachers strive to make every moment of every period meaningful. We expect that students arrive to all classes on time. Please see our tardy policy linked here.
Parents, this past week (on Thursday), we began recording students’ tardiness to all periods, including 1st period. Please note that 1st period begins promptly at 7:45. Please plan for unexpected traffic or delays in dropping your child off at school and ensure that they are in the building by 7:40 so they can be in their 1st period on time.
Attendance
In both homeroom and grade level town halls, we spoke to students about the importance of daily attendance. Research correlates both academic success and school connectedness to daily attendance. Please see the Attendance Works Resource that is linked here: (English/Spanish)The attendance tracker that is linked here (English/Spanish) was shared with all students. We strongly suggest students miss NO MORE THAN 9 DAYS for the ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR. Many general questions regarding attendance are answered in this Frequently Asked Question document (English/
Spanish). Any specific questions about your child’s attendance can be directed to your child’s counselor or administrator at 301-840-3991.
Breakfast and Lunch
Watkins Mill provides free breakfast and lunch to all students. Juniors (Class of 2026) and Seniors (Class of 2025) are permitted to have open lunch, meaning that, with their parent’s permission, they are allowed to leave campus for lunch. Open lunch for juniors and seniors is a privilege and students must ensure they return to school on time to maintain that privilege.
Cell Phone Policy
We expect all students to be fully engaged in their learning. Teachers will explicitly share cell phone expectations with students daily. Students are expected to follow teacher expectations related to cell phones. See the school’s cell phone policy linked here.
Testing Information
PSAT Make-Up Testing
If you missed the PSAT, students check your email for communication from Mrs. Briggs. Make-up testing will take place Thursday and Friday of this week. Please reach out to Mrs. Briggs if you have questions. Nadya_Briggs@mcpsmd.org
Seal of Biliteracy
Seal of Biliteracy 2024-2025 Information
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_7YR0KiUPqIOFdTxbBkiu2NkBGpqojI3/view?usp=drive_link
AP Testing Information
24-25 AP Letter to community Exam Only Option
Students interested in taking the exam for an Advanced Placement course they are currently not enrolled in have the option to register by following the steps below.
Look at the available exam options by clicking here to view the College Board exam calendar. Students can select any exam even if Watkins Mill High School does not offer the course.
Email Ms. Melissa Ashby (melissa_a_ashby@mcpsmd.org) or see her in B127 (Math Office) to register for the exam by October 31, 2024
A $17 financial obligation will be assigned to the student’s account. Payment must be confirmed prior to the exam date
AP Exam Requirements and Policies Please be aware of the following important details regarding the AP exam: - No-Show Fee: If a student does not show up for the AP exam, including the make-up exam, a fee will be assessed to cover the cost of the unused exam. ($40.00) - Late Drop Fee : If your student decides to drop the AP exam after November 15th, 2024, a fee will also be assessed to cover administrative costs. ($40.00)
Counseling
Mental Health Awareness Week is October 21-26! We're hosting daily activities to promote student well-being, including mental health facts at the Skybridge, de-stress coloring sessions, a Relaxation Station, and more.
Please encourage students to participate and talk about mental health. Every mind matters, and together we can foster a supportive environment. Check the event flyer for full details and important support resources.
Let's make mental health a priority - your involvement can make a difference!
Important links
9th Grade News
We are excited to offer our 9th-grade students an opportunity to explore college life through the Grade 9 College Tour on Thursday, November 21, 2024. Students can choose to visit American University or Coppin State University in person, or participate in virtual college tours through myMCPS Classroom. This experience helps students start thinking about their future education and career paths early.
Space for the in-person tours is limited, so please encourage your child to sign up as soon as possible! Permission forms can be filled out using the Google Form on the attached flyer, or physical copies can be picked up from the Counseling Department. Forms are due by Thursday, November 7, 2024.
For questions, please contact Ms. Sarah Kessler at Sarah_H_Kessler@mcpsmd.org.
Class of 2025 - Senior Class News
🧡💙SENIORS!🧡💙
SENIOR PORTRAITS FOR NOVEMBER ARE NOW AVAILABLE! If your child has not signed up to take their senior portrait, please sign them up for the November 6th or November 7th date. The link is HERE!
Cap and Gown Fee
Cap and Gown fees can be paid at school cash online or cash/check with Ms. Holderman in the financial office (before school, after school, STE) The senior cap and gown fee is $65.00.
Senior Shirts
If seniors have purchased a Class of 2025 shirt, they should pick their shirt up in Dr. Cloyd’s classroom. Senior shirts are sale online for $20.00 at school cash online. They can also be purchased at Back to School Night on Thursday, September 5th.
Senior Portraits
Seniors can now schedule their senior portraits clicking the link here: https://schedule.prestigeportraits.com/schedule/home.html
Portraits will be taken in the auditorium at Watkins Mill HS on September 10th and 11th.. Please reach out to Prestige Portraits at 800-736-4753 if you have any questions or issues.
CTE News
This is an APPLICATION to go on the field trip! The Field Trip is offered to only sophomores and juniors only. This is for students with an interest in work based learning and not currently in an apprenticeship. There is ONLY SPACE for 15 students!
What: Apprenticeship Job Fair
Where: Montgomery College Rockville Campus (Transportation will be provided)
When: November 19th in two groups starting at 9:00 am and 10:00 am
Application closes on Nov 8th.
Current Business at the Job Fair (List is growing!): Arts on the Block, SciTech2U Inc, Legend Management Group, Hands On Dental Assistant Training, Auto Therapy LLC, Lib's Grill & Lib's Catering, Property Management Association, SERVPRO Team Gutierrez of Rockville, Cross Community - The Equity Center, US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Hands On Dental Assistant Training, The Finishing Trades Institute, Electrical Alliance, WANADA, Montgomery County 9-1-1, Montgomery County Recreation
Link to Application: https://forms.gle/NSDzXwzgpWiB1rkh9
College and Career Center Information
Community Schools Information
We are excited to announce that Watkins Mill High School has become a community school this year! This designation means we will receive additional resources and funding from the state over the next couple of years.
As part of our Needs Assessment this year, we will be collecting data and feedback from students, care givers, and staff to better understand the needs of our school community. We kindly ask all caregivers to complete the following survey to share your thoughts and the needs of your students from your perspective.
Caregivers survey- https://forms.gle/5TZo5fRhTYeckbwM7
As a thank you for your participation, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a raffle to win gift cards and self-care items!
Thank you for your support
Athletics
News and Updates
Please be sure to follow the athletic department on the following social media sites to be up to date on all things Watkins Mill Athletics:
Twitter/X: @WMRinesSports
Instagram: @wmrinessports
Facebook: Watkins Mill Athletics
Website: www.watkinsmillathletics.com
All schedules can be found here under the season and the sport. Please note: Bocce and Allied Softball have not been announced yet. They will be uploaded when they are announced and official.
Contacting coaches: Here is a list of our coaches that is updated as changes are made. For sport specific questions, please contact the coach of the program.
Save the Dates for Winter and Spring Sports Registration:
Winter
Registration Opens 12pm 10/14 (through ParentVue)
Registration Closes 12pm on 11/13 (through ParentVue)
Practices/Tryouts Begin on 11/15
Spring
Registration Opens 12pm 1/27 (through ParentVue)
Registration Closes 12pm on 2/27 (through ParentVue)
Practices/Tryouts Begin on 3/1
Winter Sports Registration IS NOW OPEN! Here is more information for winter. Do not wait to register, register early so your child can begin on 11/15.
MCPS Athletics has made this year, “Year of the Coach”, to align with this, Watkins Mill Athletic Department, is asking stakeholders to submit a thank you note to our coaches by using this link. Please note: only positive responses will be shared with Coaches. The Athletic Department will share these on a weekly basis with our amazing coaching staff.
We also are doing a Coach of the Month each month from September through May. Please be sure to submit a vote using this link until 12pm on October 23rd. The Coach of the Month for September will be announced on or around November 1st. Thank you for taking the time to nominate our dedicated coaches.
Email our Athletic Specialist with any questions you may have.
Sports Medicine reminder: Parents and athletes, please make sure to ask a doctor/medical provider for a clearance note that states your participation status every time you see a provider outside of school. Athletes are not allowed to participate without written clearance from the provider. Please email our Athletic Trainer with any questions.
PTSA
A message from PTSA
PTSA- Meeting Information
Hi Rines family,
(attached are the Budget and previous meeting minutes for your review)
Please join us on Tuesday, Oct 15th at 7pm in the media center for our upcoming PTSA meeting (Zoom available). We will meet the board, review/approve our budget, invite our administrative team to share an update on what is happening at The Mill. We also have a special guest speaker Diana Silva (Career Advisor Coach) from Montgomery County Career Advising Program (MoCo CAP) to advise us how MoCo CAP can be our resource!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88671055860?pwd=zlUajl1pUCdKfnqBbq7GE8XArW76EX.1
Meeting ID: 886 7105 5860
Passcode: 437006
Please join and/or like our social media to stay up to date on upcoming events and meetings. Help us spread the word. Thank you!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2566149090200043/
https://www.instagram.com/wmhs_ptsa/
https://twitter.com/WMRinePTSA
https://sites.google.com/mcpsmd.net/watkins-mill-high-school-new-s/home (PTSA website)
Wellness Center Activities
Wellness Center Update
Identity, Inc. | mmorales@identity-youth.org
Mobile: (240) 600-7061 Office: (240) 406-1545x1065
Watkins Mill Cluster Project
Here are the Cluster Project's Weekly Newsletters for Friday, 10/04.
English Version:
Spanish Version:
Updates
Here are some upcoming events and opportunities:
ACES Senior Parent Night - October 29, 6-8pm at Seneca Valley High School - we will be reviewing steps and best practices for navigating senior year responsibilities, discussing the college application and financial aid processes, and assisting ACES Scholars with creating their FSA ID, which will be needed to complete the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Dinner will be provided. **More information and the link to register can be found on the ACES Canvas page.
Junior Workshop - Resume Writing - October 22 during lunch in E106
Career Coaching Appointments are open now! If you need help with career exploration, creating your resume, searching for internships, or finding SSL opportunities, be sure to schedule a meeting with Ms. Camille. The scheduling link is posted on the ACES Canvas page.
Attention Sophomores: the ACES application is open!! ACES is a college and career readiness program that supports you with exploring and navigating your post-graduation plans. We provide workshops, test prep, college application support, financial aid and scholarship support, summer enrichment programs, and more! It is FREE to apply and will take about 30 minutes to complete. You can find more information and the link to apply online at https://www.acesmontgomery.org/join-the-program/#apply. Students who apply will also need to complete an Application Consent Form. Stop by the ACES room, E107, to pick up the consent form or email Ms. Moxley at Jennifer.L.Moxley@mcpsmd.net to have one emailed to you. The deadline to apply is January 10, 2025.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Ms. Moxley at Jennifer.L.Moxley@mcpsmd.net
ACES Student Success Coordinator
Watkins Mill High School
240-850-8601
College Tracks Updates
CollegeTracks welcomes juniors and seniors to register to join our program. We provide FREE college and financial aid support to students and families. CollegeTracks does have a capacity limit on the amount of students we serve per class and we are close to meeting that limit. If you have a senior that plans to attend college or trade school and need support through the application and financial aid process have them register for CollegeTracks ASAP. We have begun programming events to ensure students are on track to meet the upcoming deadlines
Dominic Chappell| Program Director
Watkins Mill High School
Mobile: 301.259.1853
