FRIDAY FOCUS
Monomoy Regional High School's Weekly Newsletter
Published: April 26, 2024
* * *
Monomoy School Choice window is open for next year
Computer Science at Monomoy
Hey Monomoy - Are you ready for the future? Computer Science can help you get there
Hear more directly from our students in this video, created in collaboration with Mooncusser Films LLC!
MRHS is hiring Instructional Assistants for Special Education
Autism Acceptance Month
Monomoy's Portrait of a Graduate
* * *
MRHS teacher Lizzie Sheptyck honored with award
Monomoy Regional High School teacher Lizzie Sheptyck has been awarded the William Spratt Award for Excellence in Teaching Secondary Social Studies from the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies.
MRHS Principal Jennifer Police said, “Ms. Sheptyck creates a classroom environment where students not only learn, but actively engage with the content in authentic and meaningful ways. She sets high expectations for learning and empowers her students to master the skills necessary for success in any college or career setting.”
Each year, the MCSS presents Awards of Excellence in a variety of social studies areas to educators from across the Commonwealth. Teachers, administrators, and museum educators at all levels are eligible for recognition. The William Spratt Award for Excellence in Teaching Secondary Social Studies is awarded to high school teachers and is named after one of the earliest members of MCSS, Bill Spratt, who was a teacher and department chair at Whitman-Hanson High School and a Marine Corps veteran. Through his tireless work, MCSS grew into the leading professional organization for social studies in the state.
“Every time I step into Ms. Sheptyck’s classroom, students are at the center of the learning,” said Lindsey Parker, Monomoy’s Humanities Curriculum Director for grades 5-12, who nominated her for this award. “Students in her classroom are collaborating, creating, inquiring, and seeking, and providing feedback to one another continuously. Her goal is clear: providing students with opportunities to practice important skills they can use once they graduate, including the preparedness needed to enact their civic responsibilities.”
Parker added, “Aside from her impressiveness as a content expert and an educator, what I find to be most important is that students genuinely love Mrs. Sheptyck’s classes. Students are excited upon entering her room, and many are seen there during lunch or advisory time working or just gathering for a place to talk. She has created a safe space without sacrificing high expectations, and it’s evident that students are excited to be in her classes for this reason."
Sheptyck will be presented with her award in May at the MCSS Awards Ceremony.
Congrats to Susannah Brown!
Monomoy senior Susannah Brown honored with Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning
Monomoy Regional High School Senior Susannah Brown was selected by the high school’s administration to receive the 2024 NSDC Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning.
The National School Development Council is a network of regional school study councils that supports excellence, equity and continuous educational improvement. The NSDC network assists hundreds of schools and school districts nationwide in becoming high-performance organizations. The regional affiliation is the New England School Development Council (NESDEC).
This award is presented to high school seniors who have consistently pursued a high level of academic effort, and who have also served as positive role models for the student body. Recipients of the award exemplify admirable character and accomplishment.
In presenting this award, Superintendent Scott Carpenter shared the following excerpts from the nomination from Susannah’s counselor:
Susannah Brown is a ray of sunshine, a breath of fresh air, and just a spectacular human being. This young woman is a class act and well respected by both staff and peers alike. Whether it is in the athletic arena or just walking through the hallways, Susannah leads by example and is a role model to many.
Susannah has challenged herself with taking rigorous and advanced courses and is not afraid of challenge or hard work while balancing her competing priorities. She chose courses that would be a challenge instead of taking the easy road, even knowing she has a full life outside of school. Susannah is a three-sport varsity athlete in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. She was a senior captain for the highly ranked Monomoy field hockey team and was the 2022 Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Individual Sportsmanship Award recipient – a true testament to her leadership and positive attitude. She has represented Monomoy as an MIAA School Ambassador for the past two years. Susannah is also the Founder and President of the Monomoy BLM (Black Lives Matter) Student Union, which she helped establish during her freshman year. Susannah has also participated in our TV Production class, using state-of-the-art technology and equipment, and delivered the news each morning to the MRHS community. She has been a student assistant in both physical education and in a special educational classroom, working alongside her teachers to mentor younger students.
One of Susannah's most outstanding qualities is her kindness and compassion. She is a supportive and empathetic friend who is always willing to help others. Her positive attitude and willingness to contribute to her community make her a role model for her peers. Susannah has also been nominated by her peers to be a Hope Squad representative – a peer-to-peer youth suicide prevention group.
Susannah’s work ethic, maturity, perseverance, and empathetic nature will serve her well as she works towards her future goals. With interests in law and in business, Susannah has the skill set to be successful in any profession she decides on.
Susannah was presented with the award at the School Committee meeting on April 25, 2024.
Earth Day
Students in the SAIL classroom worked together with recycled bottle caps to make this work of art for Earth Day! Stop by the library and check it out!
Thank you to all the awesome Interact volunteers who gave up part of their weekend to do some weeding and raking at a CapeAbilities group home in Dennis. The following students participated (left to right): Thomas Chase, Braden Burke, Ryan Laramee, Finn Hyora, Tamer Kalil, Abby Considine, Lilly Gould, Tatiana Malone, and Jacob Gould.
Also, in honor of 2024 Earth Day, over 20 volunteers went outside this week and filled trash bags to clean up the grounds around the school. They filled over 10 bags!
National Chinese Honor Society Graduation Ceremony: 6 Years of Success
On April 25th, during Jawsome, graduates of the National Chinese Honor Society gathered to celebrate their impending completion of five years of high school, particularly their outstanding achievement in Chinese language studies. Prior to the commencement of the celebration, former club president Talia conducted an on-the-spot, a brief training session for the current co-presidents, Maya and Kassandra, on effective club leadership skills: effective communicator, work within and lead a team, consider other perspectives, collaborate, compromise, and negotiate. Assist classmates to prepare for college, career and life!
The NCRS graduates enthusiastically performed a Chinese sign language dance, "Heart of Gratitude," reflecting on their joyful experiences learning Chinese over the years and expressing gratitude towards their school, teachers, and fellow students.
Subsequently, Ms. Li presented each honor student with a sash, expressing gratitude to each student and encouraging them to continue studying Chinese in college or beyond, applying their Chinese knowledge to their future careers and lives.
The National Chinese Honor Society has a glorious six-year history at our high school. Over the past six years, National Chinese Honor Society students have been living out their ideals: to become not only independent and confident learners, creative and critical thinkers, but also communicators and leaders, also engaged citizens!
Over the past six years, we have bid farewell to one exceptional cohort of high school graduates after another. Regardless of whether their universities offer Chinese courses or not, our students may continue their Chinese language studies throughout their college careers. Or continue to learn Chinese during building their career through Monomoy's Duolingo Mandarin classes. This epitomizes our hope for post-graduation continued learning, ultimately applying their acquired skills in future endeavors.
We look forward to welcoming more students to become members of the National Chinese Honor Society at Monomoy Regional High School in the future!
Our NCRS students are: Paul Carlson;Talia Perez; Liam Jordan; Stephen Kelly; Noah Metters; Zou, Yu Ying; Alexis Arruda; Lillian Gould; Steele Ponte; Chloe Jones; Jocelyn Keddington.
Please enjoy the attached video and images and join us in applauding our esteemed graduates!
Senior Arts Night: Thursday, May 9
Young Women's Club Fundraiser: Mother's Day Tea Party
You're cordially invited to join us for a delightful afternoon of warmth, laughter, and cherished memories at our annual Mother's Day Tea Party, hosted by the Young Women's Club!
📅 Date: Sunday, May 5th
🕒 Time: 11:00 PM - 1:30 PM
🏫 Location: Monomoy Regional High School Cafeteria (Community Entrance)
At our enchanting tea party, elementary and middle school students are encouraged to bring a special female family member—be it a mom, grandma, aunt, or family friend—for an unforgettable celebration of maternal love and appreciation.
Activities Include:
🌷 Crafting Corner: Get creative with heartfelt Mother's Day crafts! From personalized cards to handcrafted gifts, our crafting corner offers endless opportunities for children and their loved ones to express their love and gratitude.
🍰 Tea & Treats: Indulge in a delectable assortment of teas, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats fit for royalty. Our culinary delights are sure to tantalize taste buds and add to the festive atmosphere.
🎨 Creative Workshops: Dive into engaging workshops designed to spark creativity and foster bonding between generations.
This enchanting event promises to be a heartwarming celebration of the extraordinary women in our lives. Join us as we honor and celebrate the love, sacrifice, and endless support of mothers and mother figures everywhere.
Don't miss out on this special opportunity to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Mark your calendars and RSVP today through our Registration Form!
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Jazmyn St. John, Club Advisor, at jstjohn@monomoy.edu.
Class of 2026 Fundraiser: Beach Towels
Go to www.thebeachfireshop.com to order yours today!
FREE MRHS YOGA CLASS: April 30 and May 7
Is your teen struggling to regulate their emotions and behaviors? Encourage them to join the free yoga classes occurring this Spring after school in the MRHS Library. Yoga could help your young person:
- Engage in deep breathing promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
- Learn mindfulness practices that can help them become more aware of their thoughts and emotions. This self-awareness can lead to better emotional regulation and a reduction in stress and anxiety.
- Practice physical postures that promote physical relaxation and can alleviate tension and discomfort. They also improve physical health, aiding in overall well-being
Classes are taught by a certified yoga teacher from community partner Yoga Neighborhood and supervised by a school staff.
- Location: MRHS Library
- Time: 3:20-4:20
- Upcoming Dates: April 30 and May 7
20th Anniversary 'Through Young Eyes' featuring MRHS Artists
Student volunteers needed for Tour de Trash: Saturday, April 27
Student volunteer opportunity at Chatham Railroad Museum
The Chatham Railroad Museum is welcoming high school volunteers for regular weekly shifts throughout the summer. Volunteers would greet visitors and keep count of how many visitors the museum receives. If you are interested, please email Jeff Gordon at chatham167@gmail.com.
2024 Senior Graduation & End-of-Year Newsletter
The 2024 Senior Newsletter includes:
- Senior Obligations Checklist
- Graduation Ceremony Information
- Schedule of Upcoming Senior Events
- Senior Final Exam Schedule
Please do not hesitate to contact the school with any questions. We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2024!
Senior Newsletter: Obligations & Graduation Ceremony Info
Senior Newsletter: Schedule of Events
Senior Newsletter: Senior Final Exam Schedule
ADDITION TO THE SENIOR CALENDAR
Senior Walkthrough: Thursday, May 16
On Thursday, May 16th, seniors will visit their schools "one last time" for a walkthrough of their buildings (CES, HES, MRMS) to commemorate our senior's educational journey through the district. Seniors will depart MRHS at 8:45 and visit the other three district schools for a pass through the hallways to visit their teachers who have had a hand in their education.
Yearbooks for sale
There are still plenty of yearbooks left for sale! However, the online ordering portal for 2024 yearbooks is CLOSED so all purchases must be made via cash or check (made out to: MRSD).
- Yearbooks are $90 each.
- Please forward payment to the Main Office with attention to Katie Francesconi, Yearbook Advisor.
- Once payment is received, the order will be entered in our system manually and a receipt will be sent.
- Yearbooks arrive at the end of May/early June and students will pick yearbooks up in the Main Office once they have arrived.
Please reach out if you have any questions: Katie Francesconi (kfrancesconi@monomoy.edu) or (mrhsyearbook@monomoy.edu)
Student Newspaper: The Bite
The Bite student newspaper is proud to present our Website! Please peruse the articles written by our amazing student journalists, and check back frequently for updates! MRHS's Creative Writing Club, Sandscript is now featured on the site as well! Be sure to check out their poetry and creative writing pieces.
Ad Lucem Root Word of the Week
Parenting Solutions Library
* * *
Course Selection
Course selection meetings will start the week of April 29. Students need to complete their course requests by April 26. Every student will be assigned a meeting with their counselor so encourage your student to take some notes and be prepared for the meetings.
Final Push for scholarships!
Many scholarships are listed on Naviance.
Questions about financial aid?
Please explore the MEFA website for relevant and timely information regarding FAFSA and deadlines.
Upcoming SAT Dates
May 4, 2024 - Registration deadline is April 19
June 1, 2024 - Registration deadline is May 16
Please register through the college board - Click here to register
Upcoming MCAS Testing Dates
APRIL:
- Grade 8 - STE: April 23 & 24
MAY:
- Grade 8 - Math: May 14 & 15
- Grade 10 - Math: May 21 & 22
- Grade 8 - Civics: May 28 & 29
JUNE:
- Grade 9 - STE: June 4 & 5
Service Academy Information Night
If you are interested in attending one of the nation’s service academies, this informational fair will be a great introduction for young people looking to get a quality education and to serve our country.
Follow us on Social Media!
TWITTER: @MonomoyGuidance
INSTAGRAM: @MonomoyGuidance
Wishing you health and safety,
The MRHS Counseling Team
* * *
MASBC Annual Mattress Fundraiser: Saturday, May 11
The Monomoy All Sports Booster Club Annual Mattress Fundraiser is one month away! If you are in the market for a new mattress please stop by the MRHS gym on Saturday May 11th from 10-4! Great deals, great products and you will be supporting our Student-Athletes!
If you are a parent of a spring high school student athlete we would love for you to attend a Zoom kickoff meeting to find out what it's all about. The Zoom meeting is Wednesday May 1st at 6:30pm. We hope to see you there!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monomoy All Sports Booster Club is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Monomoy All Sports Booster Club Parent Kick-Off Meeting
Time: May 1, 2024 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/84852943598?pwd=am4FyAfaRb7RJzgAeCrIpqoEgZtAth.1
Meeting ID: 848 5294 3598
Passcode: zFC7eg
Athletic Schedule: Week of 4/29
Athletic Dismissals: Week of 4/29
Mon. 4/29
V Softball @ 1:45
V Boys Tennis @ 2:30
V Baseball @ 2:45
Tues. 4/30
V Sailing @ 1:30
V Boys Lacrosse @ 1:45
V Boys and Girls Track @ 2:15
V Girls Lacrosse @ 2:30
Wed. 5/1
Fr. Baseball @ 12:15
V Girls Tennis @ 2:15
Thurs. 5/2
Unified Track @ 2:00
V/JV Baseball @ 1:45
V Girls Golf @ 2:45
Fri. 5/3
V/JV Girls Lacrosse @ 11:15
V Girls Tennis @ 11:15
V Softball @ 1:45
* * *
MRHS Performing Arts Department Calendar 2023-2024
Please click the link to see the MRHS Performing Arts Department Calendar 2023-2024
* * *
Alaska Talk with Betty Trummel: Tuesday, April 30
- 2:30pm-3:30pm
- Harwich Community Center
- FREE event
Book Talk with Yvonne de Sousa: Wednesday, May 1
- Starting at 2pm
- Harwich Community Center
- FREE drop-in event
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Class for Parents
- Monday evenings from April 1-June 3
Family Fun Friday: Friday, May 3
- 5:30-6:30pm: Stations of games in gym. (open to all)
- 6:30-7:30pm: Open Gym Time (for Harwich residents only)
- Harwich Community Center
Rec. Soccer Co-Ed: Apr. 25-Jun. 13
- For grades 8-12
- Thursday nights from 6-7:30pm
Teen Job Fair: Thursday, May 9
- For ages 15-18 to meet and connect with local employers
- Free event
Wonder Land: May 10-12
- Harwich Chamber of Commerce presents: Wonder Land
- Mounbeau Hall Pilgrim Congragational Church, Harwich Port
- Box Office: www.harwichcc.com
Combatting Hate: Building Bridges Across the Cape: April 28 & May 19
Bloom to Benefit Fundraising Event: purchase by May 15
- Supports Cape & Islands Youth and Young Adults
Family Grief Groups
- 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month, 5:30-7:30pm
- Hyannis, MA (Venue disclosed upon registration)
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
- 3rd Tuesday of the month from 4:30-6:30pm
- Dinner and childcare provided
Public Screening of "No Small Matter": Sunday, April 28
- FREE! @ Cape Cinema, 35 Hope Lane, Dennis
Wequassett Resort is hiring for summer 2024 positions
- Apply to https://careers.wequassett.com
- For further information email: humanresources@wequassett.com
Cape Cod Institute is hiring operations & AV staff for summer
- Email Sophie Tretiak at setretiak@cape.org to learn more!
MRHS School Handbook
Click here to access the 2023-2024 School Handbook:
MRHS Attendance Form
To report your child's absence, tardy, or upcoming dismissal please use the following link:
Friday Focus Archive
Did you know? Past issues of the Friday Focus can be found on our website:
Contact Us!
Email: mrhs@monomoy.edu
Website: mrhs.monomoy.edu
Location: 75 Oak Street, Harwich, MA, USA
Phone: 508-430-7200
Monomoy News & Social Media
MRSD Latest News/Updates: https://www.monomoy.edu/our-district/latest-news
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MonomoySchools
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monomoyschools/
Official Monomoy Regional SD App: Download from App Store or Google Play.