In the Homestretch
Dear Atholton Families,
I hope everyone had a relaxing spring break. Now that we are back, we are in the homestretch as the end of the school year will be here before we know it!
This Wednesday is designated as Atholton High School Stress(LESS) Day! A group of students representing various clubs and organizations met with me to propose having this day and have been planning for last month. The entire half-day will be devoted to stress-free activities – card playing, yoga, mindful meditation, outdoor activities, school beautification, and much, much, more. Students were sent a sign-up sheet for activities today. Please make sure they sign-up! Additionally, since this is a mental health day, a discretionary day may be used for an absence on Wednesday. If you have any questions regarding an absence, please reach out to our attendance secretary, Ms. Weinberg at Mona_Weinberg@hcpss.org.
We had our senior crab feast this past Friday evening. It was such a great turnout. Thank you to the PTSA and parents who donated items and who came to help setup and breakdown. Our seniors had a great time eating crabs and enjoying each others company.
As we approach our junior/senior prom date on May 7. I want to be sure that parents have the same consistent message we have shared with students the past two weeks. First, prom tickets are on sale now. They may be purchased via our website. Additionally, any guest who is NOT an AHS student must have an accompanying guest form (also found on the website). All guest forms MUST be completed and turned in to an administrator by this coming Friday, April 29. Failure to get an non-AHS student approved by 4/29 will result in the guest UNABLE to attend the junior/senior prom.
Our PTSA has been working hard to put together a safe option for students after prom. Please encourage your student to attend the AHS Raider Post Prom Party. More info and ticket information may be found here. Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that having a safe option for students after prom is so important. With the prom just around the corner, there is a buzz of excitement about what to wear, where to take pictures, and planning for after prom. Before prom night, I ask you to encourage your son or daughter to attend the AHS Post Prom Party sponsored by the PTSA as a great alternative to hosting house parties or other types of parties for teens. Tickets for Post Prom are for sale online.
When it comes to prom, I am asking parents and/or guardians to consider the following tips:
En Route to prom: Ridesharing with adult drivers is a fantastic idea. Make sure everyone understands the expectations for picking updates, parking, and night driving conditions.
Don't forget to CHARGE: Selfies, texts, and group photos are big activities that can drain a cell phone battery quickly. Remind teens about appropriate posting on social media with everyone's permission and then remind them to consider how they will re-charge their phones so they can check in with you.
Curfew: When is your teen expected to be home? This does not mean driving home or being almost there or waiting on a friend or a change of plans in the middle of the night. Make sure that the curfew time is clearly communicated.
Buckle Up: Wearing a seat belt is mandatory and it's the law! A wrinkled prom gown or a crushed tux lapel is no excuse to skip seat belts.
No Texting and Driving: This teenage group has the largest proportion of driving accidents while distracted. Remind all drivers to PARK THE PHONE while driving.
No Alcohol or Drugs: This goes without saying. Also, talk to your teen about not getting into a car with anyone who might be impaired.
Post Prom: It is important to know where your teen and date are going to be after the prom is over. Have a check-in time. Share contact information with other parents. As the night gets later and later, juniors and seniors will begin to get tired so they should remember that drowsy driving is just as dangerous as impaired or distracted driving.
Emergency Plan: Teens are often hesitant "to tell" even when they don't feel safe. Reassure them that they can text or call you to pick them up right away if they feel they may be in a dangerous situation.
I hope all of this information is useful.
Please take a moment to view the important information below regarding the Above and Beyond Awards, Athletic Boosters Auction, and Children’s Mental Health.
Have a terrific week!
Warmest regards,
Robert A. Motley
Principal
Atholton High School
Click Below for Boosters' Organization News
Email: Robert_Motley@hcpss.org
Website: www.ahs.hcpss.org
Location: 6520 Freetown Road, Columbia, MD, USA
Phone: (410) 313-7065