Weekly Newsletter

March 1, 2026

Dear Coyote Community,

I hope everyone had the opportunity to enjoy this weekend’s sunshine. It was a refreshing change after several weeks of cold, gray weather. As we keep an eye on the forecast, I’m hopeful that any predictions of snow or a wintry mix will pass us by so we can have a smooth start to the week.

This past week, we began implementing our tiered response to tardiness. While a small number of students earned detention after being late three times to the same class, we are already seeing positive shifts. More students are picking up their pace and arriving on time, and we truly appreciate those efforts. Our goal is simple: to ensure every student is present for the full learning experience from the first moments of class. We remain confident that students who have not yet adjusted will do so as expectations continue to be reinforced.

Please take a few moments to review the important updates in this week’s newsletter. You’ll find key information about upcoming SAT Day details, prom clothing giveaways, and a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved both at CHS and in the broader community.

Let’s have a focused, productive week ahead.

Warmly,
Ms. O’Neill

March 6 Band Festival (6:00, Auditorium)

March 7 MSP Retreat (Magruder, See Flyer Below)

March 11 SAT Day (See Flyer Below)

March 12 Senior Parent Meeting (7:00, via Zoom, Link to Come)

March 16 Signs of Suicide (Counseling Lessons)

March 20 No School for Students (Non-Instructional Day)

March 27 Spring Pep Rally

March 30-April 6 Spring Break

April 9 Arts and Culture Showcase

April 10 Naach Showcase

April 11 Prom

April 14 Last Day of Marking Period 3

Please view the March issue of the Media Center newsletter here.

In this issue:

• Celebrate this month's events with our resource collections: Women's History Month, Irish American Heritage Month, March Madness, National Craft Month, Optimism Month, National Nutrition Month, Expanding Girls' Horizons in Science & Engineering Month, Maryland Day
• It's Time to Read: Thank You Mr. Sprites!
• March Trivia Contest: It's About Time!
• Community Student Leadership Opportunity: FOLMC Student Representative
• Spotlight on Digital Citizenship: AI Chatbots - Who’s Behind the Screen?

On Wednesday, February 25, the AP African American Studies class traveled to historic Frederick, MD, to see the Civil Rights Play, "Let it Shine." Students reported that the play was very interesting and aligned with studies in the AP class.

The CHS Wrestling Team showed up in a big way at Saturday's Regional Competition. Congratulations to the following wrestlers:

• Elana Pelaez, 1st place, 105 pounds
• Amanuel Fisahaye, 1st place, 106 pounds
• Annaelle Adewi, 4th place, 110 pounds
• Aaron Fisahaye, 1st place, 113 pounds
• Marcela Aguirre, 6th place, 115 pounds
• Mason Kellar, 2nd place, 120 pounds
• David Dansou, 2nd place 126 pounds
• Isaiah Ormsby, 6th place, 138 pounds

The Walter Reed Military Medical Center (the "President's Hospital") is offering 50 high school students a prestigious opportunity through the Red Cross to volunteer in our clinics. Our month-long program in July will allow students valuable clinical experience, medical awareness training, and more opportunities for our medically interested students. Apply soon as our applications close on March 20th and first come first serve! Link: sparrows.school/chs

The Matt Papirmeister Award: Open to high school senior art students. Cash prizes: $3,500, $3,000 and $2,500. Deadline: Sunday, March 15.

Montgomery County Science Fair: From 11:45 a.m.–4 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at FDA Building 75, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue in Silver Spring.

Keeping It Safe Video Contest: Open to middle and high school students, the contest invites students to create a 30-second video on the risks and dangers of under 21 alcohol use. Deadline: Tuesday, March 31.

Keeping It Safe Video Contest: Open to middle and high school students, the contest invites students to create a 30-second video on the risks and dangers of under 21 alcohol use. Deadline: Tuesday, March 31.

Sober Vibes Essay Contest: High school juniors and seniors are encouraged to write an essay persuading their peers not to drink before, during or after prom. Deadline: Tuesday, March 31.

Sustainability Poster Contest: All students and staff can participate in this annual contest to increase awareness of energy conservation, waste reduction and responsible recycling. Check out the new digital art category! Deadline: Friday, April 3.

Maryland Center for School Safety’s Prepare 2026 Art Showcase : This year’s theme, Future Ready Schools, calls on student artists in Grades 3-12 to share their perspectives on what school safety means to them. Deadline: Sunday, May 31.