Calvert Connection
Calvert High School Newsletter
October 18, 2024
Commitment to Excellence, the Cavalier Way!
Principal's Message
As we wrap up our Fall Spirit Week, I am filled with CAV pride and gratitude for our school community. Our students and staff showed enthusiasm and creativity, making each day of Spirit Week a celebration of school spirit and pride. This weekend, we look forward to our Homecoming game and dance.
These events are not just about fun; they also speak to the sense of community that we have and continue to strengthen. Student/staff school spirit and participation play a large role in shaping the overall climate of our school. Students who are involved and engaged in school experience an increased sense of belonging, improved academic performance, increased well-being, less behavior issues and higher attendance rates.
Thank you to the students, staff and families who contributed to the success of our Fall Spirit Week. Let’s continue to support each other and celebrate our Cav community. Enjoy a few highlights of our week below!
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
ATTENDANCE EMAIL Send notes for student absences, students arriving late or needing to leave early to the CHS Attendance email. Please direct correspondence to CHSAttendance@calvertnet.k12.md.us. All secretaries in the main office have access to this email address. Thank you!
UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES & EVENTS
CHS Athletic Events: Calvert (smacathletics.org)
October 18
Homecoming Football Game CHS v Great Mills 7:00pm
*see updated gate entry procedures below*
October 31
End of Marking Period 1
November 1
2-Hour Early Dismissal Teacher Work Time
November 5
NO SCHOOL Election Day
November 8
Marking Period 1 Report Cards Available
November 11
NO SCHOOL Professional Learning
November 27-29
NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving Break
CAVS Work Hard
Update: CAV Time - Mandatory Tutoring
A priority at Calvert High is the academic growth and achievement of all students. To support this effort, we prioritize helping students make decisions that put their academics first.
To ensure every student has the opportunity and supports to succeed, we have implemented mandatory Cav Time tutoring sessions. These sessions are assigned to students who may need additional supports and assistance from their teacher(s). Attendance at these sessions is not optional; it is a requirement if assigned.
Please note that failing to attend assigned Cav Time tutoring may result in consequences. We appreciate your support in encouraging your child to take full advantage of these opportunities to enhance their academic performance.
Students continue to be encouraged to join a CHS club or group during Cav Time. It is a great way to meet other students, make friends and be positively involved at school.
Working Lunch for Students
The CAV Café is OPEN for working lunch! Students are encouraged to join Ms. Morris in Room 222 on Monday, Wednesday, and/or Friday during lunch to have space and time to work. Support is provided to identify missing work, communicate with teachers, and make submissions.
From the Office of Gifted, Advanced Learning, and STEM
In partnership with the Tuskegee Airmen East Coast Chapter and Reach Back and Lift I, we are excited to invite you to the Southern Maryland Youth In Aviation Program meeting on October 22, 2024, at 6 PM (flyer attached). This virtual meeting will be held on Zoom and will provide valuable information on how your child can join a private pilot class. In addition, this session will be recorded.
This is our second year partnering with the Tuskegee Airmen East Coast Chapter and Reach Back and Lift We look forward to continuing this important work together in order to offer diverse STEM opportunities to students in our community.
We hope to see you there!
Zoom Information
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81936772950?pwd=lDOF8Vnn1rslaeO3l7eDzI2OBnx3aq.1
Meeting ID: 819 3677 2950 Passcode: 286031
Ms. Reynold's Algebra 1 students determining if there's a linear correlation between hand size and foot size.
Ms. Wallmark's AP Statistics class raced pull back toys to collect data on nonlinear regression
Ms. Lister's Criminal Justice class during a CCSO Command Staff visit
SOMD Criminal Justice Academy Trip
Learning how to carry out a traffic stop
Ms. Hall's art students shared their art work at CHS this week
CHS Fine Arts Department hosted our annual Coffee House with a full crowd supporting our student performers
Ms. Milton took English and theater students to Kline theater to see Shakespear Theater Company perform Comedy of Errors in Washinton DC.
The cast held a Q&A for students. They were inspired by the craft of the performance and music.
CAVS Get Involved
2024 Fall Spirit Week!
A neuro, frat bro & T-Bow
First aid & a mermaid
Mr. Morgan, Ms. Hysan & Ms. Wolber--A tree, bee and referee
Ms. Lister & Ms. Land--A tourist and a florist
Ms. Valen & Ms. Robison --Pikachu and Gru
Ms. Gentile, Mr. Mackall, Ms. Miller, Dr. Kimbro, Mr. Zick--(Taylor) Swift & Lift
Scholarship Opportunity Due 10.31.24
4 college scholarships are available from Omega Psi Phi's annual high school essay contest. See the attachment for information and eligibility.
Testing
AP Exam Registration
AP Registration begins this week. Students will register in their AP class. Please see the attached AP letter for additional information.
Contact Ms. Hook with questions: hookd@calvertnet.k12.md.us
AP and SAT ACCOMMODATION REQUESTS
Submit requests for College Board accommodations (AP, SAT) to Dona Hook, Assistant Principal, at hookd@calvertnet.k12.md.us. Completed request forms for AP exams are due by December 19, 2024.
Counseling Office Information
October Newsletter: CHS Counseling Office Updates | Smore Newsletters
Student Crisis Hotline: Students can text “Hello” to 741741 at any time to be connected to a crisis counselor 24/7. Check this link for more crisis resources: http://suicidehotlines.com/maryland.html
Be sure you are checking the Guidance website CHS Guidance and Twitter CHS Guidance Twitter to get up-to-date info on College visits, scholarships, forms, and other important events.
CHS College Visits for Students
Sign up to meet with college representatives visiting CHS. Use the QR code to sign up for a visit and to see the updated list of schools.
College & Career Advisor
Career planning starts in high school by researching industries you are interested in, the job possibilities within an industry, and mapping out your progression in both. This process includes evaluating your skills, interests, values and career goals.
Remember, a career plan is not set in stone; it can change and evolve over time. Remain flexible and periodically reassess your plan to ensure it aligns with your goals.
Lunch and Learn Workshop on Internships
Hosted by: CHS Career Advisor and Work-Based Learning Coordinator
When: Tuesday, October 22
Time:
- Session 1: 5th-period lunch
- Session 2: 6th-period lunch
Location: Media Center
What is an Internship?
An internship is a temporary job or work experience that allows you to learn about a particular career. Internships can last from a few weeks to a few months and can be either paid or unpaid. They are a great way to gain practical experience and skills that can help you decide on a future career path.
Benefits of Internships:
- Gain Real Work Experience: Practical experience will help you stand out in the job market.
- Build Your Network: Connect with professionals in your field of interest, opening doors to more opportunities.
- Explore Different Careers: Sample various careers to find the right fit for you.
- Develop Soft Skills: Improve communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that are valuable in any career.
Steps to Take Now:
- Register for the October 22 Workshop: Email Mrs. Boyle at boylem@calvertnet.k12.md.us
- Access Her Appointment Calendar: https://bit.ly/CHSBoyle
Athletics
Calvert High athletic information: https://chs.calvertnet.k12.md.us/athletics
Athletic Director: Jason Cranford cranfordJE@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Athletic Game Information
- Admission cost for regular season athletic events is $6.
- Online tickets for CHS games can be purchased at: Calvert High School Tickets by GoFan. This link includes access to the Student and Parent Pass for the Fall season. This pass can only be used for HOME games.
- There will no admittance after the 3rd quarter.
- Re-entry is not permitted (you may not pay to re-enter)
- Backpacks and bags are not permitted.
- No profanity
- No throwing items in the stands or on the field/court
- Prohibited items include weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, electronic cigarettes, outside food and drinks, laser pointers, non-service animals, sports equipment, and other items deemed inappropriate by the school administration.
- Please help us maintain our campus pride by throwing your trash away.
NEW: Football Game Entry & Attendance Guidelines
New Entry Requirements:
Calvert High Students: Must present a valid school ID or HAC verification of their current school schedule to gain entry.
Students of the Away Team: Must present a valid school ID or app verification of their current school schedule to gain entry.
Other School-Aged Spectators: Must be accompanied by an adult (21 or older) who has purchased a ticket. Chaperones are required to stay and supervise students for the duration of their stay at the event. This includes students from other high schools, middle and elementary schools.
Spectator Guidelines:
No gathering outside of seating areas will be allowed before, during, or after the event. Spectators must remain in the stands or at the fence line during the event.
Failure to abide by event expectations will result in spectators being removed with no refund and a loss of privilege to attend subsequent events.
CAVS Are Kind
CHS PBIS
Spread Kindness at CHS
The 2024 Kids Kindness Grant is now open for students to apply directly for funding for their unique project ideas to spread kindness in their school/community.
Calvert High FAST (Family and School) Information
•New this year is the Calvert High School Family and School Team! Check out their Facebook page for volunteer opportunities. "CHS FAST"
Formerly known as PTSO
•A great way to get involved to support CHS!
•Examples: staff appreciation events, treats at award ceremonies, help with homecoming and prom
Transportation
Student Parking Permits
Parking permits for 2024-2025 are on sale for Seniors and Juniors. The parking fee for this year is $60.
Students who are not parked appropriately will be asked to move their vehicles and may jeopardize their ability to purchase a permit and park in the student parking lot. Students are to park in only their numbered parking spot
Students who do not follow parking rules and regulations such as speeding or reckless driving in the student parking lot and onto Dorsey Rd or parking without a permit may have their permits revoked and face school disciplinary consequences.
Parking permits will continue to be sold during the school year until the parking lot is full.
CHS Transportation Remiders
Reminders
- Afternoon student pick-up: please back into a parking space to wait for your student. This helps to alleviate a traffic back-up.
- Please drive at a safe speed when dropping-off/picking-up students.
CHS Back Parking Lot
- The CHS back parking lot is for student drivers only. Drop-off and pick-up for students is in the Kiss and Ride lot located at the front of the school.
- No student can park in the back lot without a school issued parking permit.
Student Drivers
- Parking permits must be visible at all times while parking on school grounds.
- Students who are chronically late to school may have their parking permit suspended.
- Be mindful of your speed and cautious when entering and exiting the parking lot.
- The law requires that you stop at the stop sign at the Dorsey/Dares Beach intersection. Drive safely or you risk having your CHS parking privileges suspended.
Technology
Having trouble with a student laptop? If you are having software issues or password issues, requests can be sent directly to the IT HelpDesk at helpdesk@calvertnet.k12.md.us. If a student is having hardware issues, broken screen, laptop will not turn on, etc., see Ms. Mignardi in the library
Home Access Center Reminders (HAC)
Reminders regarding the Home Access Center that will make life easier.
- Students’ log in to HAC using their Office 365 credentials. Remember to use a capital S and their student ID number as their login (do not include the entire email address, just S + the student ID number).
- New parents and/or those who have never logged into HAC are able to self-register with their address and email address that the school has on record.
- Parents who are having trouble accessing HAC and have not been able to successfully reset their own password, can contact Ms. Hickey in the Main Office at 443-550-8880 or hickeyk@calvertnet.k12.md.us If you are sending an email, be sure to include your child's information.
Laptop Expectations
Volunteering at CHS
Do you have extra time to help out at CHS? In order to volunteer in the school AND/OR chaperone field trips, you must complete a 2023-2024 CCPS Application. This information can be found at the link below.
ADMINISTRATION 2024-25:
Principal - Andrea Young - 443-550-8881 younga@calvertnet.k12.md.us
12th Grade, 10th (A-H) – James Rodenhaver -443-550-8884 rodenhaverj@calvertnet.k12.md.us
11th Grade, 10th (R-Z)– Trey Sirman - 443-550-8882 sirmant@calvertnet.k12.md.us
9th Grade, 10th (I-Q) - Dona Hook -443-550-8916 hookd@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Student Services Lead (SST) - Kristen Morris - 443-550-8883 morrisk@calvertnet.k12.md.us
MAIN OFFICE STAFF 2024-25:
Attendance Email – CHSAttendance@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Sherri Barber (Administrative Secretary) – 443-550-8878 barbers@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Amber Mackall (Front Office Secretary) - 443-550-8879 mackalla@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Mandy Stevens (Attendance Secretary) – 443-550-8891 mailto:stevensa@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Raquel Emond (Finance Secretary) – 443-550-8889 emondr@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Kelly MacDonald (School Nurse) – 443-550-8892 macdonaldk@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Attendance Procedures
ATTENDANCE EMAIL In addition to hard copy notes, you can send notes for student absences, students arriving late or needing to leave early to our attendance email. Please direct correspondence to CHSAttendance@calvertnet.k12.md.us. All secretaries in the main office have access to this email address.
COUNSELING OFFICE 2024-25:
Grade 9 – Katherine O'Neill, 443-550-8894 oneillk@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Grade 10 – Mapri Gray, 443-550-8897 graymd@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Grade 11– LeTea Perry, 443-550-8896 perryl@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Grade 12 – Jessica Ponti, 443-550-8895 pontij@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Guidance Department Secretary – Sharon Kruder, 443-550-8893 kruders@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Registrar – Karen Hickey, 443-550-8898 hickeyk@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Career Advisor - Mary Ann Boyle, 443-550-8919 boylem@calvertnet.k12.md.us
Community Events & Activities
For information about family events and youth activities taking place in our community, visit www.calvertnet.k12.md.us. Please note: These events and activities are not sponsored by the Calvert County Board of Education or Calvert County Public Schools. We provide equal opportunities to outside agencies to distribute materials that offer opportunities to students and/or their parents, but that permission should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement by the school district
Saturday Anti-Vape Education Sessions
Nondiscrimination Statement Calvert County Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry or national origin, familial status, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth programs. Calvert County Public Schools does not refuse enrollment of a prospective student, expel a current student, or withhold privileges from a current student, or prospective student, or the parent or guardian of a current or prospective student because of an individual’s race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, age, national original, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Calvert County Public Schools does not discipline, invoke a penalty against, or take any other retaliatory action against a student or parent or guardian of a student who files a complaint alleging that the program or school discriminated against the student, regardless of the outcome of the complaint. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director of Student Services Director of Human Resources For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Assessment System at: https://ocrcas.ed.gov or call 1-800-421-3481. ************************************************ Anti-sexual, Anti-racial and Anti-disability Harassment Statement Calvert County Public Schools does not tolerate any form of harassment including, but not limited to, sexual, racial, or disability. Any individual (student, employee, or community member) who believes that they have been subjected to any form of harassment is encouraged to report the allegation of harassment. Students, parents, and community members may report allegations of harassment to: Ms. Cecelia Lewis, Director of Student Services, Calvert County Public Schools, 1305 Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Employees may report allegations of harassment to: Mr. Zachary Seawell, Director of Human Resources, Calvert County Public Schools, 1305 Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Calvert County Public Schools is committed to conducting a prompt investigation for any allegation of harassment. If harassment has occurred, the individual will be disciplined promptly. Disciplinary actions for students found to have engaged in any form of harassment may result in suspension or expulsion. Disciplinary actions for employees found to have engaged in any form of harassment may result in suspension or termination. Calvert County Public Schools encourages all students, parents, employees, and community members to work together to prevent any form of harassment. For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Assessment System at: https://ocrcas.ed.gov or call 1-800-421-3481. Calvert County Public Schools Antiracism Statement Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) explicitly denounces racism, bullying, discrimination, white supremacy, hate, and racial inequity in any form within our school community. Furthermore, CCPS will not tolerate the values, structures, and behaviors that perpetuate systemic racism.
443-550-8000
Discrimination can manifest itself in behaviors such as bullying, harassment, or intimidation of individuals.
Revised – September 30, 2024
Each member of the district, individually and collectively, is responsible for creating and nurturing a safe, antiracist learning environment where each student, staff member, and community partner is a respected and valued member of the CCPS community.