CHS News

Centennial High School’s K-pop Club performed at the 6th Ulrim Korean Cultural & Art Festival of Maryland on Saturday, October 18, at the Jim Rouse Theater & Performing Arts Center.

Pictured are the K-pop Club members who performed, along with their club sponsor, Mr. Boggs.

Left to Right: Slyvia Johnson, Haley Swarthout, Mr. Boggs, Mikayla Shim, Grace Ko

Front: Yukti Walvekar

The Wingspan journalism team was well represented at the Maryland Scholastic Press Association conference at the University of Maryland Merrill School of Journalism on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Students participated in several workshops, including student leadership in journalism; they also received a 30-minute, one-on-one critique of their newspaper with nationally acclaimed journalism adviser, Mr. Alan Weintraut.

Left to right: Sahil Prasad, Haley Hunt, Christine Ma, Emma Liu, Teju Reddi, Blythe Zheng, Sukaina Hussain, and Hannah Elpus.

Congratulations to Camila Fitchitt and Evelyn Danna, who were selected to participate in the Navigating the Margins writing program for this school year. Only 25 HCPSS high school students were selected to participate through a strict application process.

Both of these writers are excited about what this means for them. Camila (pictured right) said that this is a great opportunity to work on writing skills, be creative, and have her work published. Evelyn (pictured left) said this allows her to do what she wants most: "I just want to write and become an author."

Throughout this year, our Navigating the Margins students will have the opportunity to learn from published authors by attending monthly virtual sessions, participating in bimonthly peer writing workshops, and most importantly students will receive personal feedback from their selected author mentor at three points during the year on a short story they will spend the year crafting. Their final stories will be published in a collection toward the end of 2026.

Congratulations to 40 outstanding students who were recognized as Student of the Month for September!

Students are nominated by staff members for academic achievement, as well as positive attitudes that highlight leadership in class, modeling positive participation, and supporting classmates and teachers.

Congratulations to Shalisa Ibad on receiving the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence.

The Congress is an honors-only program with strict academic requirements designed to motive and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be physicians and medical scientists.

Shalisa attended the June 2025 Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Boston, Massachusetts.

We are thrilled to announce and congratulate our newest members of the National Technical Honor Society! This outstanding group of students has demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and leadership in their Career and Technical Education programs.

Induction into the NTHS is a prestigious honor that recognizes the very best in CTE. These students represent the future of a skilled workforce and have shown a true commitment to excellence:

• Selina Alzaben
• Suhas Anumolu
• Alex Barrett
• Adelle Cai
• Charlie Clark
• Lydia DeVilbiss
• Ciara Donegan
• Bryan Feng
• Emma Fradlin
• Julia Herdson
• Lakshya Kolli
• Jasper Krantz
• Jaisai Lingamchetty
• Evan Luo
• Ernest Macharia
• Michelangelo Morgan
• Krish Patel
• Tarinika Pawar
• Saifaan Quazi
• Ryan Shi
• Amanda Swentek
• Sashwat Tulshyan

Congratulations to all our new inductees! We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments. #NTHS #CTE #StudentSuccess #FutureWorkforce #CHS

Congratulations to the Math Team for their victory on Wednesday at the Howard County Math League meet!

In the individual round, Albert Cao, Nathan Lu, and Jeremy Yang all earned perfect scores of 6. Lyra Su and Leo Su scored 5's to give us 28 points and the early lead.

Albert, Nathan, Jeremy, Leo, and Joe Li then brought home the victory with a perfect score in the team round.

Way to go, Eagles!

BOTH our Girls Cross Country and Boys Cross Country teams are COUNTY CHAMPIONS!

The girls did an amazing job and we are so proud of the team!

A special shout out and congratulations to Kaylee Beal who broke the school record with a time of 18:08!

Congratulations to the boys team! We are proud of this spectacular team!

Congratulations to Ben Joo for finishing in 5th place at the county golf championship. Ben shot an 81 in some tough conditions.

Fellow Sophomore Makayla Robison placed in a tie for 6th and was the youngest female golfer in the tournament. Makayla will play in the state semifinals on Monday at the University of Maryland.

Top six finishers countywide. Ben Joo, second from left.

Allied Soccer celebrated their 4 seniors before Thursday's game against Hammond High School. Congratulations to Seth Binnie, Tiffany Bumbray, Aaradhya Dahal, and Carlos Llanos for all their success on the soccer field!

Head out to Guilford Park High School on Wednesday, October 29, at 3:30 PM to cheer the team on as they compete for the County Cup!

Left to right: Seth Binnie, Carlos Llanos, Aaradhya Dahal, Coach Fowler, Tiffany Bumbray

Students in Food and Nutrition Technology classes with Dr. Cummings completed a Harvest Cooking Lab. Staff members throughout the building were delighted when the students surpised them with hot chocolate jars - beautifully wrapped and ready for a chilly day!

Thanks for the special delivery, Aniyal Walton and Ramneet Kaur!

• October 28 - Underclass Picture Retake Day
• October 31 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early
• October 31 - End of First Quarter
• November 1 - Cap & Gown Orders due for Seniors - final deadline extension!
• November 5, 6, 7 - Senior Portraits
• November 7 - Scheduling for Parent-Teacher Conferences Opens at 8: AM
• November 7 - Deadline for ASVAB Testing Registration
• November 10 - Report Cards Issued
• November 12 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early
• November 12 - PTSA Meeting 6 - 7:30 PM, Student Services
• November 13-15 - Fall Production of Ken Ludwig's Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood, tickets here
• November 14 - ASVAB Testing, 7:50 AM
• November 15 - Spaghetti Dinner before the Show, 5:30 PM, tickets
• November 20- Scheduling for Parent-Teacher Conferences Closes at 4:00 PM
• November 21 - CHS First Ever Lip Sync Battle, 7 PM, Auditorium
• November 24 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early; In-person Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 25 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early; Virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 26 - Schools Closed for Students; Virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences

• November 27 - 28 - Schools and Offices Closed
• December 3 - Senior Portraits
• December 8 - Winter Band Concert, 7 PM
• December 9 - Winter Orchestra Concert, 7 PM
• December 10 - Winter Choral Concert, 7 PM
• December 24 - January 2 - School Closed for Students for Winter Break
• January 5 - School reopens

PLAYOFF GAMES WILL BE SHARED AS WE GET INFORMATION!

Friday, October 24, 2025

6:00 PM V Football vs Northwood HS **Senior Night & Future Eagles Night**

Saturday, October 25, 2025

11:00 AM V Boys Soccer vs Marriotts Ridge HS **MPSSAA Regional Playoff Game**

All individuals 7 years of age and older must have a ticket! Purchase here

Monday, October 27, 2025

8:00 AM State Championships for Golf at University of Maryland College Park

6:00 PM Marching Band Awards Banquet

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

3:30 PM Allied Soccer County Cup at Guilford Park HS

6:00 PM The CHS Spooktakular featuring trunk or treating and other fun activities!!

Thursday, October 30, 2025

3:00 PM Cross County Region Championships at River Hill HS

Friday, October 31, 2025

6:30 PM V Football at Manchester Valley HS

Follow your favorite teams on Fan Hudl

HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST WEEK…

Congratulations to our golf team for an outstanding season, and to Ben Joo for finishing 5th in the County Championship! Makayla Robinson will continue her season next week at State Semifinals!

Volleyball finished out their in-season games on Thursday. We look forward to following their post-season games. More information about that schedule is coming soon!

The Allied Soccer team celebrated their 4 seniors before Thursday’s game! We can’t wait

to cheer you on at Wednesday’s County Cup hosted by Guilford Park High School!

JV & Varsity Cheerleaders wowed the crowd at Wednesday’s County Championships at

River Hill High School! Congratulations on a spectacular season–we are so proud of you all!

Cross Country girls and boys teams finished as County Champions after Wednesday’s XC Championships held right here at CHS! AMAZING–and Kaylee Beal broke a CHS record!!!

What a season for JV and Varsity Field Hockey–you had an incredible season! Varsity’s run came to an end at Thursday’s MPSSAA Region Semifinals during overtime against Mt. Hebron HS.

We are so proud of each and every one of you!!

JV Boys and Girls Soccer finished their seasons undefeated!!

Congratulations to Coach Farson, Coach Lee, and their teams!

ATHLETICS NEWS

NEW CLUB ALERT: The Athletics Department is looking for responsible students interested in our new Game Day Operations Club. If you know a student interested in pursuing a career of Athletic Management or simply wants to be part of the CHS Athletic Program's day-to-day management, please reach out to rebecca_clark@hcpss.org

We're still looking for singers at our home athletic contests! Complete the form if you're interested in auditioning to sing the National Anthem at sporting events. This audition is open to CHS students.

Playoff Ticket Information:

All Playoff Tickets MUST be purchased online!

The Centennial HS athletic program will be participating in a variety of playoff contests this year.

• Individuals 7 years of age and older will be charged an admission fee of $6, $8, or $10 (plus $1 service fee) depending on the level of the contest.

• Only individuals with MPSSAA state passes will be allowed free admission.

• Tickets MUST be purchased online, and No cash will be accepted at the gate.
  
  

Purchase tickets:

• Go to gofan.co and search the school or use a direct link or QR code

• There will be a QR code at the entrance to the stadium for those who do not purchase tickets prior to coming to the game. It is highly recommended to purchase tickets prior to coming to the contest. Your ticket(s) will be sent to your email or mobile device. Present your electronic ticket at the gate to a staff member who will redeem your ticket onsite. Please do not redeem your ticket before entering the contest.

Spectator Guidelines

• ALL HCPSS policies, rules, and guidelines are in effect for athletic contests

• Elementary and middle schoolers MUST be accompanied by an adult for admission into the event

• No backpacks and outside food or drinks are allowed in the contest

• No pets are permitted on school grounds

• No re-entry once you leave the stadium/school building

• Spectators MUST be in the bleachers while attending athletic contests

• No spectators are allowed on track during an athletic contest

• UNSPORTSMANLIKE behavior, taunting, inappropriate language, targeting specific athletes/spectators/coaches/officials will not be tolerated and will result in immediate removal from the contest, and possible future contests.

Please understand that this is an MPSSAA event and staff members are only following guidelines from the MPSSAA.

Let’s Go, Eagles!!

Photographers from Legacy Studios will be here on Tuesday, October 28, to take pictures of students who missed the first photo days or who like a retake.

Don't miss the Halloween Spooktacular on October 29, form 6 to 8 PM!

Join us at CHS for a night of fun and fright! The class of 2027 in conjunction with CLES PTA will be hosting a night of fun for everyone. Arts and crafts, trunk or treat, and facepainting for the younger ones. A frightfully scary haunted house for the older!

Admission is $5.00 per student. You can pay online or CASH at the door.

We are fortunate to have representatives from HCC's Financial Aid Office at CHS on Tuesday, November 11th, from 9 AM-2:30 PM to help students and their families complete their FAFSA Application. If you would like to work with one of the representatives, please sign up using the following link: FAFSA Application Help

All students planning on attending college next school year should complete this form regardless of whether you will qualify or not. Often for colleges to award a student merit money (as well as financial aid), this form must be submitted.

We encourage students/parents to bring the following information with them:

1. A laptop/chromebook, if you have one (your student can use their school issued Chromebook)
2. You Student Aid Account Information - to create one please go to StudentAid.gov
3. A copy of the student and/or the parents 2024 Tax Returns

Make sure you're ready to participate in Wither Athletic Tryouts for Allied Bowling, Cheerleading, Boys and Girls Basketball, Wrestling, and Indoor Track!

Complete the following before Monday, November 10th to make sure you're ready for tryouts:

1. Register for Athletics through Synergy's Parent Portal. Directions for Registration

2. Make sure your Physical is completed on the HCPSS form and up-to-date! The medical eligibility/clearance page is a MUST and needs to include your name, eligibility box checked, medical professional/doctor's name and signature, the date of the exam, and the address of the doctor or stamp from the office.

3. If you are missing any paperwork, you may not participate in tryouts! Don't wait until it's too late!!

Reach out to Centennial's Athletics & Activities Manager, Mrs. Clark, if you have any questions!

You can reach her at rebecca_clark@hcpss.org or 410-313-2865

Check out @centennial_hs_boosters on Instagram for the most up-to-date tryout schedule!

Centennial's Skyward Theatre is proud to present Ken Ludwig's Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood. The show runs Thursday, November 13th, 14th, and 15th, at 7:00 PM and November 15th and 16th, at 2:00 PM. Tickets are available via HCPSS Booktix (https://hcpss.booktix.com/dept/chs/e/SHERWOOD) and can be bought at the door for $15.00.

Show T-Shirts can be ordered ahead of the show via HCPSS OSP (https://osp.osmsinc.com/HowardMD/BVModules/ProductTemplates/Bvc2013/Product.aspx?productid=DA041-1424). Shirts will be available in limited quantity and sizes at the show.

Synopsis of Play: Packed with thrills, romance, laughter, and immortal characters like Little John, Friar Tuck, and Maid Marian, Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood tells the enduring story of a hero of the people who takes on the ruthless powers that be. So, get ready to duck a quarterstaff or two – you won’t want to miss a moment of the swashbuckling fun! (From Concord Theatricals).

Dinner & Show: Spaghetti Dinner supporting CHS Wind Ensemble - Sherwood Performance November 15th at 5:30 PM!

♫ Come share a meal with family and friends before the fantastic performance of CHS Skyward Theatre's "Sherwood"! Money raised from this event will support Centennial High School Wind Ensemble's Midwest Clinic Performance in Chicago.

All tickets to the Spaghetti Dinner include pasta with your choice of meat or red (vegetarian) sauce, salad, garlic bread, and drinks. Catering by Squisito Restaurant. Gluten-free pasta is available. Tickets are pre-sale only and will not be available at the door.

Proceeds from the Spaghetti Dinner will directly support the CHS Wind Ensemble’s upcoming trip to The Midwest Clinic in Chicago, the largest international music education conference in the world. With over 17,000 attendees each year, this event represents the highest honor a high school band can receive—only five ensembles nationwide are invited annually. This December, our students will perform a 60-minute program of new and traditional music, showcasing their talent on an international stage. Funds raised will help cover essential costs such as new instruments, travel expenses for guest conductors, programs, and formal attire for our musicians.

Purchase tickets here: https://www.centennialmusic.org/tickets.html

ARL Information Nights will be held on November 11, and December 10, from 6 to 7:30 PM. These meetings are for freshmen and sophomores who may be interested in requesting one of the academies. Stay tuned... more information will be coming!

Hearts In Action is thrilled to announce the return of our beloved holiday fundraiser — the CHS Holiday Thrift House — happening on December 13 from 9 AM to 12 PM! All proceeds will benefit Grassroots, a local organization dedicated to supporting individuals in crisis.

We’re currently accepting donations of new or gently used items that can be resold at low cost. Suggested donations include:

• Toys
• Arts & crafts supplies
• Board games
• Candles
• Books
• Picture frames
• Other small, giftable items

Donation drop-off: Please place items in the collection box located outside the main office.

Thank you for helping us spread holiday cheer and make a meaningful impact in our community!

CHS is among a select group of schools that receive extra support from a team called CCEIS (Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services). This team works alongside school staff to provide additional resources, strategies, and professional development that strengthen how we support all students, especially those receiving special education services.

The goal is simple: to ensure every student has what they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Students may notice new tools, activities, and supports designed to help create even stronger learning environments.

Parents of seniors: T

The FAFSA is open for the Class of 2026!

Here are some resources to support families with the completion of the FAFSA:

• Create a StudentAid.gov account (if you don’t already have one).

• Learn about the documents you may need to fill out the FAFSA form.

• Determine your dependency status and whether your parent(s) or spouse will be required to contribute information on your FAFSA form.

• If you’re a dependent student, use the Who’s My FAFSA Parent? wizard to identify which parent(s) will be a required contributor on your form.

• Start a 2026–27 FAFSA® Form

Upcoming Financial Aid Support Sessions:

• ONGOING/Virtual and In person Options: HCC DROP IN Support- All students (even those not planning on attending HCC) can access these supports.

• Self-guided Financial Aid : Coalition for College self-guided sessions on various topics INCLUDING FINANCIAL AID

  
  

ASVAB testing offered for students, 11/14: Centennial High School will be offering an administration of the ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP) to interested students on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 7:50 a.m. Please use the following link: ASVAB Sign Up to reserve a spot for this free test by Friday, November 7, 2025. This assessment is a great tool to enhance career exploration and planning based on your results.

The ASVAB CEP, sponsored by our Department of Defense, is a public service provided to our nation’s schools at no cost and no obligation. The ASVAB, the world’s most widely used aptitude battery, consists of eight subtests that yield three Career Exploration Scores (Verbal Skills, Math Skills, and Science and Technical Skills). These three scores, combined with results of an interest inventory, will assist your child when exploring a wide variety of educational and career options.

Research has shown that students who participate in the ASVAB Career Exploration Program enjoy greater confidence in making career decisions, experience less career indecision and more thoughtfully consider their options than do students who do not participate in the ASVAB CEP. After the ASVAB test, students receive Exploring Careers: The ASVAB Career Exploration Guide with their test results. Class time will be scheduled to complete a workshop to help students explore careers. To learn more about the student benefits of ASVAB CEP participation, please view the program website and visit “Info for Parents” at https://www.asvabprogram.com/parentsLinks to an external site..

Our goal at Centennial High School is to provide quality career planning resources, such as the ASVAB Career Exploration Program. When students are able to connect their present education to their future plans, they select more classes based on future plans, participate in more career exploration activities, and see more relevance for the need to get a good education and take the next steps for a satisfying career. As a parent, your experiences in the world of work make you a valuable resource. I encourage you to talk with your child about their career options and plans beyond high school.

The ASVAB will only be administered to students who have registered through the link above. The results of our ASVAB testing is for the student and family for career planning purposes ONLY and WILL NOT be shared with the military as this is NOT a military recruitment tool.

EAGLE SOAR TUTORING

Join us for after-school tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday in the Media Center from 2:35 PM – 4:00 PM! This is a great opportunity to finish homework, get expert help in any subject from your teachers and peers, work on organization and enjoy free snacks.

After-school buses will be available on Tuesdays. Buses leave at 4:00 PM on Tuesdays and will use the following hub stop for drop off:

• Miller Branch Library

• Roger Carter Center

• Normandy Woods Dr. @ Wheaton Way

• Wheatfield Way @ Rolling Meadows

• Brittany Dr. @ Roberts Rd.

Admission representatives from the following colleges will be in Student Services at CHS on the days listed below. Seniors and juniors may sign up for the visits in Naviance (click on COLLEGES and then VISITS, and click "SIGN UP" for visit). Passes will be given to student during Period 1 the day of the visit.

October 27th – 31st

Monday, 10/27

• Randolph College @ 8:15 AM
• University of Maine at Farmington @ 9:10 AM

• Loyola University Maryland @ 10:10 AM

• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor @ 1:10 PM

Tuesday, 10/28

• St. Mary’s College of Maryland @ 8:15 AM
• Marymount University @ 9:10 AM
• Hofstra University @ 10:10 AM
• Christopher Newport University @ 1:10 PM

Wednesday, 10/29

• James Madison University @ 8:15 AM
• Howard Community College @ 10:10 AM
• University of California – Berkeley @ 1:10 PM

Thursday, 10/30

• Virginia Commonwealth University @ 8:15 AM
• University of Arizona @ 9:10 AM
• New Jersey Institute of Technology @ 10:10 AM
• Hampden-Sydney College @ 1:10 PM

CHS PTSA Meeting: November 12

Please join us for our next PTSA meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 6:00 - 7:30 PMin the CHS Student Center (near the Front Office). The dial-in details are below:

Meeting link:

meet.google.com/pcs-jgzp-rco

Join by phone:

(US) +1 402-821-1196

PIN: 717773315

Yep, Let's Do College Prep!

Attention Eagles! Please note the announcement from the PTSA concerning SAT and ACT preparatory classes. Indeed, scoring well on these important exams strengthens your applicant profile. Please note the special offers below as well since these can potentially save you money. Best wishes, and best of luck! You got this!

In an effort to begin to expose students to the wide range of careers in today's society we are looking for in person speakers to partner with us to engage students. We also want to leverage the resources within our own community. If you are interested in helping to broaden student exposure through your career journey, please take a few minutes to complete this form. We’re looking for careers that students can access from any of the post high school pathways (Military, Job, 2yr/4yr, Trade school, Apprenticeship).

Jostens has extended the order deadline one last time to November 1, so that ALL of our seniors have their caps and gowns for graduation.

Please, do not wait...place your order as soon as possible!

If you are planning to wear a cap and gown from a sibling or a friend, please see Ms. DeVore in Student Services so we can update our list with your information!

Counselors held a senior parent information night on September 10th to provide families with information about post high school planning and the college application process. Please review the following presentation information for those who could not attend. Additionally, here is a copy of the printed handout that was available for families at the parent night.

Senior Portraits are available through Legacy Studios. Photo session are available at our school on the following dates:

• November 6
• November 7
• December 3

Please go to www.seniors.legacystudios.com to book your appointment today (make sure you select "Centennial High School - Ellicott City" when you type in your name in the search bar).

Numerous packages are available, so please review all of your options!

Questions? Please contact Mr. VanWestervelt (VW), CHS yearbook sponsor, directly at rus_vanwestervelt@hcpss.org.

1. Update Your Student/Family Emergency Information Today

Parents/guardians must verify and/or update emergency information for each child every school year.

This is completed online in Family File, which has several new updates including how and where to access. Full details on updating your Family File are available online.

One exciting new feature is that families now can submit a change of address via Family File, rather than completing a separate form and sending to their school. Full directions and information for families on this new process can be found online.

2. Apply for Financial Aide

The HCPSS participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. Students from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.

Parents/guardians must submit a new application every school year to maintain their student’s eligibility.

3. Update Your Medication Forms

Students who require medication to be administered during the school day need to have new forms (dated on or after July 1st) completed for this fall. For your convenience, you can find these forms on-line at the HCPSS website. Medical Forms.

4. Parking Permits

Permission for students to drive and park vehicles on school system property is a privilege. Parking spaces for students at Centennial High School are limited. Accordingly, in order to be granted this privilege, applications for parking permits will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis in priority order: 1) Seniors; 2) Students enrolled in Work Study/Intern Mentor Programs; and, 3) Juniors.

Permits will be issued in this order through the end of the third week of school. Beginning September 18th, remaining permits will be issued in the order applications are received. Permits will not be reserved for students who do not yet have a valid Maryland Driver's License. Students ARE NOT required by the school system to attend a ‘Safe Driving’ presentation this school year.

To apply for your permit:

• Login to HCPSS.me.
• Complete the application packet and save as a pdf.
• Take a photo of your driver’s license.
• Follow this link to submit the online application. The information collected through the online application is required by HCPSS.
• Your submission will be reviewed, and you will be notified via email once it is accepted.

For questions about applying for a parking permit at CHS please contact Marie Dow at marie_dow@hcpss.org.

Keep current on news and events throughout the school year by checking the CHS website: https://chs.hcpss.org. We have added an A to Z Reference Guide to the website as your one-stop information finder: attendance policies, parking permit applications, food and nutrition services, student technology support, and much more.

Getting to School

The official school hours for Centennial High School for the 2025-2026 school year, as set by the HCPSS Board of Education, will be 7:50 AM to 2:35 PM. Bus schedules will be available online.

We believe that the safest way for students who do not drive themselves to get to school is by accessing the transportation provided. However, we do understand that there may be occasions when it is necessary to drive your student to school. When that happens, please follow the procedures listed below to help ensure the safety of all students during school arrival time.

Students who must be driven to school are to be dropped off from the sidewalk next to Burleigh Manor, along the tennis courts, and to the auditorium entrance at the side of the building following the established traffic pattern. Drivers are NOT to use the parking aisles to drop off students.

Students may NOT be dropped off along Centennial Lane. Parents are to refrain from making U-turns on Centennial Lane as it impedes traffic and contributes to unsafe conditions for students and drivers.

Students who are driving themselves to school are encouraged to arrive early to avoid being tardy. Traffic jams occur daily during the morning rush along Centennial Lane. We very much appreciate your partnership to ensure our commitment to student safety.

Students who arrive at/after 8:00 AM are considered tardy and may receive disciplinary consequences.

Students can arrive as early as 7:00 AM, as our cafeteria is open. Between 7:00 AM and 7:40 AM, students are permitted to wait outside or go to the cafeteria. Students enter through the main doors in the bus loop area (they have to walk on the sidewalk at the auditorium entrance to the front) that lead directly into the cafeteria. Students may NOT go to classrooms before 7:40 AM unless they have a pass from a teacher.

Bus Locator

The online HCPSS bus locator tool is now available and can be found on the HCPSS Transportation webpage. Bus information also can be found in Family File via HCPSS Connect Synergy. With some overlapping school start times and/or transportation exemptions, it is possible that buses for different schools will arrive at bus stops around the same time. Please review your child’s bus number and be sure they know it and check before boarding the bus.

Student Technology Devices

To help remove technology barriers and advance equitable student learning outcomes, HCPSS has moved to a 1:1 student-to-device ratio. All students have or will be provided with a Chromebook. These devices are required for all county and state testing and assessments. HCPSS Technology and Devices information

Students who do not currently have an HCPSS issued device should report to the Media Center to have one assigned on Monday, August 25.

Lockers

All students will be assigned a locker. Students may come to the front office before the school day begins, during their lunch shifts, or during Eagle Time to report a broken locker or request help with a locker.

Attendance

Please follow these procedures to report an absence:

Absence notes and tardy notes for excused absences are to be emailed to CHSabsence@hcpss.org. Students who bring in physical notes may drop them off in the front office before the start of the school day.

Discretionary absence requests must be completed and attached through email in advance of the absence. The last possible day of school for the 25/26 SY is June 18th. If there are any make-up days added to the end of the year, we need you to be available to take exams on any day from June 7-18. Any requests for Discretionary Absences during that window of time will not be approved. Likewise, Discretionary Absences will not be granted during the week of January 16th, mid-term exam week. For questions about attendance, please reach out to our Attendance Secretary, Diane Howse at diane_howse@hcpss.org.

Support the Groups Who Support Us

The CHS PTSA offers programs, services, and supports to enhance the high school experience for all students, teachers, and parents. Join the PTSA now by logging into the CHS PTSA website.

The CHS Boosters serve all student extracurricular activities, including sports teams, school clubs, and student organizations. Join the Boosters now by logging into the CHS Boosters website.

Friends of Music supports vocal and instrumental music at CHS to guarantee the sustainability of these programs and to provide vital support to our music directors. Help our talented musicians thrive by joining us today through the FOM website: http://www.centennialmusic.org/.

It is important to support organizations that do so much for us and our students. We are a community!

Legacy Studios was at school on September 18 and 19, taking underclass pictures. Families should receive notification that their pictures are ready to view by October 1.

View your portraits online: LegacyFindMyCode.com

Picture retakes are scheduled for Tuesday, October 28.

As a student who attends ARL, there are some important things you need to know to start the school year off right.

On the Regular Bell Schedule:

• AM ARL bus departs at 7:50 AM and returns to CHS at 9:35 AM
• PM ARL bus departs on A DAYS (M, T, TH, F) at 12:45 PM and returns at 2:30 PM
• PM ARL bus departs on B DAYS (M, T, TH, F) at 11:15 AM and returns at 2:30 PM

On the Eagle Time Schedule – Wednesdays:

• AM ARL bus departs at 7:50 AM and returns to CHS at 9:35 AM
• PM ARL bus departs on A DAYS at 12:55 PM and returns at 2:30 PM
• PM ARL bus departs on B DAYS at 11:20 AM and returns at 2:30 PM

Transportation to ARL

The ARL bus leaves Centennial High School promptly at 7:50 in the morning. Students are responsible for arriving in time to board the ARL bus before it departs. Students who arrive at Centennial before the departure time may wait in the cafeteria, but should be sure to set alarms and monitor the time to make sure they don’t miss the ARL bus, which leaves our school at 7:50 AM.

Parents/Guardians are welcome to transport their students to the ARL in the morning. There is a designated Student Drop Off lane closest to Route 108 ( follow the signs). Do not pull into the bus lane that is directly in front of the building. Be aware that traffic around campus can be busy in the morning. Parents/guardians should plan on arriving at the ARL campus between 7:55 and 8:00 for morning classes. Students are expected to be walking into the ARL no later than 8:05 and in class by 8:10. Students arriving in class after 8:10 are tardy to the ARL.

Students who wish to drive themselves to ARL must complete a parking permit application. ARL does not have a dedicated student parking lot, and spots are limited. Priority for parking permits will be given to students currently attending HCC dual enrollment programs and to those students who have off-site internships as a part of their academy program. Students who wish to apply for a parking permit should submit an application found linked on the ARL Website. Students will be notified if they are approved or denied a parking permit, and will receive information on how to pick up their parking permit. Please note that student drivers are not able to leave the parking lot until all buses have departed.

Plays were meant to be seen, not just read. The Silhouette Stage (10400 Cross Fox Lane, Columbia, Maryland 21044) is putting on the timeless classic, The Crucible.

Performance Dates

October 10th & 11th, 17th, 18th, 24th & 25th at 8:00 pm

October 19th & 26th at 2:00 pm

https://www.silhouettestages.com/

To make this opportunity even sweeter, there is a promo code for HCPSS, which offers a $18 student ticket (reg $20), and note we also offer discounts for HCPSS educators at $20 (reg $25): https://ci.ovationtix.com/35499/production/1198034?promo=HCPSS

Howard County Recreation & Parks is excited to launch the NEW Girls High School Flag Football league this late Fall in partnership with the Baltimore Ravens and Howard County Public School System.

Registration is right around the corner, so use the link below to complete the interest form for Centennial's team. The season starts soon!

https://www.hcrpsports.org/girlshsflagleague

Check out all of the dates and locations for the Howard County Health Department Flu Clinics.

FREE Parenting Classes for Parents and Grandparents

Raising preteens and teens is tough. Wouldn't it be great if adults could attend a class to learn how to help their kids/grandkids avoid risky behaviors? There is.

HC DrugFree's FREE classes for Howard County parents, guardians, and grandparents are back!

The Fall 2025 series will run (Tuesdays and Thursdays): November 11, 13, 18, 20 and December 2 from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Zoom.

While the curriculum is for adults with 9-14 year olds, HC DrugFree strongly encourages HoCo adults with students in K-12 to try to attend all 5 classes. Some families have attended more than one series!

Remember, parents or grandparents living out of the area can join us on Zoom during their lunch break.

Guiding Good Choices® is an evidence-based, interactive prevention program that helps you build a stronger bond with your child/grandchild, while also providing skills proven to reduce the risk of youth engaging in substance use or other risky behaviors.

Learn how to:

• Strengthen Family Bonds

• Develop Healthy Beliefs and Clear Standards

• Avoid Trouble and Respond to Peer Pressure

• Manage Conflict and Express Feelings Constructively

• Prevent Drug Use in Your Family

• And More!

Learn more and register

Drive-Thru Medication Disposal: Saturday, October 25 in the Wilde Lake Village Center Parking Lot near the Swim Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medication, vitamins, pet meds, vape devices, inhalers, and more. Unlike previous events, we will not collect sharps (needles, syringes and EpiPens). Need student, adult, and medically-trained adult volunteers. Earn Community Service Hours! Giving away 100 medication lockboxes. For more information and to volunteer visit HC DrugFree's website: https://hcdrugfree.org/drug-take-back-day-1/

Teen Advisory Council:

To RSVP/register to receive the Monday, November 3 TAC meeting Zoom link, click here. Meetings will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Each meeting has a unique link, so members must RSVP/register before each meeting.

Students: If you have not submitted a new 2025-26 registration, please complete this form to register for the coming school year. Even if you have been a member for several years, we need a new registration each school year.

Members of TAC attend our monthly meetings and serve as student ambassadors in their schools and in the community.

Why join TAC?

• Earn Community Service Hours
• Gain experience for job & college applications
• Volunteer opportunities year round
• Be a leader and role model in Howard County

Learn more

Free Newsletter: Stay up to date with HC DrugFree's free events offering Community Service Hours to HoCo students, resources, and a variety of substance use and behavioral health information! Sign up for HC DrugFree's free digital newsletter: https://hcdrugfree.org/enews-signup/

Know what's happening in Howard County. Sign up for HC DrugFree's free newsletter at tinyurl.com/HCDFNews or follow us on social media to get updates on events as well as information to keep your family safe and informed:

• Facebook: facebook.com/HCdrugfree
• X: twitter.com/chdrugfree
• LinkedIn:linkedin.com/company/ch-drugfree

• Centennial High School’s website is a great source of information at https://chs.hcpss.org.
• Instagram @CentennialHS
• Facebook @www.facebook.com/chs.hcpss.org
• Read the Wingspan, CHS student newspaper
• CHS PTSA https://www.chs-ptsa.org/and CHS Boosters https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/.
• CHS Friends of Music http://www.centennialmusic.org/
• Register to receive school system updates and alerts at https://www.hcpss.org/hcpss-news/, click on Subscribe and select Centennial High School.