News from the Nest

Dear Eagle Parents and Guardians,

As we enter this festive and busy month of December, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued partnership and support. This time of year reminds us how important our school community is, and how much we value the collaboration between families, staff, and students in helping every Eagle soar.

Second Quarter Progress Reports – Available Today

Progress reports for the second quarter are being released today. We encourage all families to take a few minutes to review their student’s current academic standing. This mid-point check-in is a great opportunity to celebrate successes and identify areas where additional support may be helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your student’s progress, please don’t hesitate to reach out directly to their teachers. Our staff is eager to partner with you and work together to ensure each student stays on track for a strong finish to the semester.

Support for Students – Free NHS Peer Tutoring

If your student could benefit from extra academic help, please consider taking advantage of our National Honor Society peer tutoring sessions, offered free of charge. Tutoring is available after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. This is a wonderful resource for students who need help understanding content, organizing assignments, or preparing for upcoming assessments.

If your student is struggling academically—or if you notice changes in motivation, organization, or confidence—please reach out to their teachers or counselor. We are here to help, and early communication can make a big difference.

Adulting 101 – December Session Coming Soon

Please keep an eye out next week for information about our upcoming Adulting 101 sessions. Our next session will be held on December 17, offering students hands-on learning experiences that build real-world skills. Students may sign up for the topics that interest them most, and we look forward to another meaningful session.

Celebrating Excellence: Mr. Landgraf Named AHS Limelight Nominee

We are proud to announce that Mr. Landgraf has been selected as this quarter’s Aberdeen High School Limelight Nominee. Every decision he makes reflects a deeply student-centered approach—whether he is crafting engaging lessons that connect academic content to real-world experiences or creating opportunities for learning that extend beyond the classroom.

Drawing on his extensive background in education, Mr. Landgraf teaches Psychology, Sociology, AP African American Studies, and AVID III, and his students have achieved remarkable outcomes, including a 95% pass rate in AP African American Studies. As AHS’s AVID Coordinator, he has expanded college and career opportunities for students, facilitated peer mentoring, and strengthened connections with our feeder schools. Additionally, he serves as the dedicated faculty sponsor for our Black Student Union, empowering student leaders to guide the club’s development and impact.

Through his tireless work, leadership, and commitment to student success, Mr. Landgraf exemplifies what makes Aberdeen High School a place where students can grow, lead, and excel. We are thrilled to celebrate him!

Looking Ahead
December is filled with exciting milestones, events, and celebrations that showcase the talent and hard work of our students. As always, we are grateful to work alongside you in supporting their growth. Please continue to check our website and school messages for updates throughout the month.

Thank you for your continued partnership. Wishing you a joyful, peaceful holiday season and a strong finish to 2025!

Warmly,
Erica Harris
Principal, Aberdeen High School

12/09 1st Quarter Honors Breakfast

12/15 Winter Chorus Concert

12/16 Winter Orchestra Concert

12/17 Winter Band Concert

12/18 Winter Dancer Concert

12/18 PTSA Virtual Meeting at 7:00pm

12/20 Pancake Breakfast with Santa and Christmas Market

12/23 3-hour Early Dismissal

12/24 - 1/2 Winter Break - Schools and Offices Closed

1/22 Personalize Your Education Experience Information Night (Snow date 1/29)

✨ Prom 2026 – Save the Date! ✨

We are excited to announce that Prom 2026 will take place on April 18, 2026, from 7:00–11:00 PM at the beautiful Top of the Bay on APG! The theme will be announced soon, and we can’t wait to begin planning with our students.

A Prom Planning Meeting will be held on Monday, December 8th in Room H101 at 2:10 PM (Scarlato’s room). All interested students are welcome to join and share ideas!

🎟️ Tickets

• Price: Approximately $80 per person
• Where to Buy: School Cash Online
• Sales Dates:
• Seniors: January 20 – February 6
• Juniors: January 27 – February 6
• Limited to 400 tickets, so please purchase early!

👥 Guest Pass Information
Because the event is held on a military base, we must follow strict security guidelines. Guest passes are due January 30—no exceptions.

• Every guest’s full name must be submitted in advance; the list is finalized a little over two months before prom.
• The approved list will be provided to the APG gate on prom day.
• Upon arrival, guests must tell the gate guard they are attending Prom at Top of the Bay and present a driver’s license or student ID.
• Names will be checked off before entry, and all guests must arrive by 8 PM.
• Please be aware that there may be a security dog at the gate and possibly inside the venue.

We’re looking forward to an unforgettable night celebrating our students—more details to come! ✨

Our seniors met with Ms. Taddia and a representative from Jostens on November 18th to kick off graduation planning! Students learned about cap and gowns, graduation apparel, and the exciting steps ahead as we prepare to celebrate the Class of 2025. Each senior received a packet to bring home with all the details.

If your student wasn’t able to attend, no worries—packets are available in the main office.

Families can also explore the graduation options and information shared at the meeting by visiting:
https://www.jostens.com/graduation/high-school/graduation-packages

We’re excited to begin planning for this memorable milestone with our seniors and their families!

Save the Date for Graduation 2026- May 26, 2026, at the APGFCU Arena!

Student Member of the Board (SMOB) Advisory Council Seeking Applicants

The Student Member of the Board (SMOB) Advisory Council is a student-led group that supports the SMOB in representing the voices of students across Harford County Public Schools. Council members will provide input on Board matters and assist with student engagement initiatives, including social media, legislation, policy research, and outreach. This is a unique opportunity for students to serve their peers, elevate student voices, and make a meaningful impact on education in our county.

Members will meet monthly and must remain academically eligible according to HCPS guidelines throughout their term. The council is seeking passionate, responsible, and diverse students from all secondary schools. If you know a student ready to lead and serve, please encourage them to apply!

Applications are due December 8 at 11:59 p.m. Questions may be directed to HCPS SMOB James (Trae) McVicker at james.mcvicker@hcps.org or HCPS Supervisor of Social Studies Erin Lange at erin.lange@hcps.org.

👉 Link to application: SMOB Advisory Council Application 2025-2026 – Fill out form.

Personalize Your Education Experience Information Night: January 22nd at 5pm in the AHS Auditorium.

Snow Date: January 29th

Learn about Dual Enrollment Options, Apprenticeship, Workforce Development, and Part Time opportunities for the upcoming school year. Parents and Students welcome.

State Financial Aid Programs through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC)

The Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) at the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) provides a number of state grants, scholarships, and loan assistance repayment programs for eligible Maryland residents. Below you will find a complete listing of programs offered by MHEC. Visit https://mhec.maryland.gov for more information

Join your School Counselors for College Application Assistance during lunch on Fridays in November and December:

Seniors, do you need help with college applications? Are you unsure about Xello? What about the Common App or Common Black App? Do you have questions about fee waivers or scholarships? What about college in general? If so, please drop into the Counseling Office on Fridays during your lunch for ‘College Fridays’. Counselors will be on standby to help you with any and all questions about college, the college application process, Xello and scholarships. You are welcome to bring your lunch with you. We hope to see you soon!

Tuesday 12/16 – All 4 Lunches – Join your school counselors for games in the cafeteria

Subscribe to Local Scholarship Postings:

https://www.hcps.org/departments/studentservices/SchoolCounseling.aspx#ScholarshipsAnchor

Scholarship Searches:

• Central Scholarship – Scholarships, Career Grants, and Interest-free Loans!
• Delegation Scholarships
• FastWeb - Conduct a scholarship search
• Finding Scholarships - Advice and background from the College Board
• Harford County Education Foundation Scholarship Central - Harford County Education Foundation holds several scholarship awards for graduating seniors attending Harford County Public Schools.
• Senatorial Scholarships
• State Financial Assistance Programs & Applications - Check link for details

ASVAB Test Prep Workshops:

If you signed up for the ASVAB test occurring on Wednesday 01/14/26, you are invited to our test prep workshops.

You must sign up using the link below, so you may be excused from class.

· ASVAB Test Preparation Workshops in the library 7:30 am-8:30 am:

o Friday 12/19 (B Day)

o Monday 12/22 (A Day)

o Monday 01/12/2026 at 8:00 am-9:00 am Petty Officer Watkins of the Navy will give 20-30 minutes pre-ASVAB test to students that sign up (You will get your score right away). · Workshop signup: https://forms.office.com/r/ZKBm1hNSuz?origin=lprLink

Mental Health Series

To proactively support students' overall well-being, Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) is partnering with ParentGuidance.org to offer a virtual webinar series developed by licensed therapists. These interactive sessions are designed to help parents and caregivers support their children’s mental health and wellness.

• Format: Virtual and completely confidential—registration, attendance, and participation are anonymous to other viewers.
• Time: All sessions are held from 12:00–1:00 p.m.
• Registration: Visit the HCPS Parent Academy Facebook page or the link on the event flyer .
• Contact: For registration assistance, email Mary Beth Stapleton at Mary.Stapleton@hcps.org.

Session Schedule:

• “School Avoidance” - Wed. Dec 17
• “Bullying—Stop the Cycle” - Wed. Jan. 21
• “What Parents Need to Know about Suicide Prevention” - Wed. Feb. 18
• “Everyday Happiness” - Wed. Mar. 18
• “ABCs of Substance Use & Vaping” - Wed. April 15

Thank you to everyone who has already donated breakfast items or monetary gifts for our 1st quarter Honors Breakfast. We truly appreciate your generosity.

This is a friendly reminder that items can be dropped off at the school throughout this week.

If you would still like to contribute, it’s not too late. The links below show what items are still available to donate. And if you’re unable to participate this time, no worries—there will be another opportunity later this month and more in the months ahead.

AHS Honors Breakfast Donations

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0C4BA8AB2AA64-60635317-aberdeen

AHS Honors Breakfast Volunteer Sign Up

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0C4BA8AB2AA64-60673395-aberdeen

Thank you again, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. abhs.ptsa@gmail.com

Senior Banners are for sale!

🎓 Early Bird Price: $40 if purchased by December 12, 2025.
💰 After that date, prices will increase, so don’t wait!

Banners can be purchased through the AHS PTSA Giveback store (link below).

https://aberdeenhsptsa.memberhub.com/store/items/759892

We are looking for sponsors as an advertising and partnership opportunity. Please let me know if you would eb willing to serve on the day of, or if you'd be interested in running a workshop at abhs.ptsa@gmail.com.

By joining the PTSA, you help make meaningful events like this possible. If you haven’t already, we invite you to join and support our efforts to bring engaging and impactful programs to our students.

Join the PTSA (https://aberdeenhsptsa.givebacks.com/shop)

AP EXAMS - open to all students taking advanced placement courses

Late AP exam registration information:

• · Closes March 5th at 5:00 pm

  · Cost:

  o $42 per exam for the following:

  ü Any student who is FARMS (free/reduced meals program) eligible.

  ü Any student in 11th grade.

  ü Any student in 12th grade.

  o $146 per exam for any 9th or 10th grade student who is NOT FARMS eligible.

  
  

  If you have questions, please contact: Mrs. Bane (AP Coordinator) Danielle.Bane@hcps.org.

• Registration online through Total Registration - www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/210000

State Assessments:

• State assessments are required for graduation purposes in the following areas:
• Government
• Biology (LS MISA)
• Algebra 1
• English 10
• All 9th grade students will take a Mathematics assessment (Algebra 1, Geometry or Algebra 2) for ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act) purposes.
• Testing will take place in school on the dates listed below:
• Government – April 27th and 28th
• Biology (LS MISA) – April 29th and 30th
• Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry – April 20th and 21st
• English 10 – April 9th, 10th, 13th and 14th – students will test all 4 days
• Testing will also take place in school December 1st - January 16th for students who did not test in the Spring of 2025 or who have not met College and Career Readiness Standards.
• MCAP Scores from Spring 2025 testing will be distributed mid October.

Contact Danielle Bane (Danielle.Bane@hcps.org) if you have any questions regarding PSAT/AP Exams or State Assessments.

Is your student College and Career Ready (CCR)? Please see the chart below to see if your student is on the right path. Being CCR is one of the criteria looked at when determining eligibility for Dual Enrollment, Apprenticeship Programs and Workforce Development Programs that students can participate in their Junior/Senior year.