Weekly Newsletter

March 15, 2026

Dear Coyote Community,

Happy Sunday! I hope this newsletter finds everyone well and that you have had a chance to relax and rejuvenate today.

As you may have seen in the forecast, tomorrow brings the possibility of volatile weather. MCPS will be closely monitoring conditions to determine whether there will be any impact to the school day or after-school activities. Here at CHS, we will also be monitoring conditions and are prepared to move students to our designated weather areas if necessary. I encourage families to keep an eye on MCPS communications and local news sources for the most up-to-date information.

Prom is also right around the corner! Tickets are now available online for $85 and include entry to the prom, delicious food, bowling, and music. In this newsletter, you will also find information about several opportunities for students to shop for free prom outfits.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week ahead.

Warmly,
Ms. O’Neill

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

We want to hear from you! Earlier this year, MCPS implemented significant operational changes and shifts — affecting topics as different as grading, safety (including police in schools), the Student Code of Conduct, open lunch in high schools and cell phones in schools. Starting today, MCPS is distributing surveys on several of these issues important to families, students and staff; we want to know how they are working for you in practice.

The survey is available here. Not everyone will receive the same set of questions. If you are a member of more than one group (for example, a staff member who is also a parent) you will be able to take the family survey and the staff survey, and potentially receive different questions. You will be asked to self-identify both times.
Participation is confidential. No individual responses will be shared; only summarized data will be used to guide districtwide improvements.

Find the CHS course registration request form here.

The fourth quarter Refrigerator Curriculum, which provides a one-page overview of the main themes and texts students will study each marking period, is now available.
MCPS will be hosting a community meeting next week for parents/guardians to preview the materials. This meeting will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18 at Ritchie Park Elementary School, 1514 Dunster Road in Rockville.

MCPS continues to advance important planning related to school boundaries and long-term facility investments. During a recent Board of Education Spring Facilities and Boundaries work session, district leaders reviewed updates, including alternative options, to the superintendent’s recommendations and answered questions raised by Board members and the community. The Board is scheduled to take final action on the boundary studies on March 26, with approved changes beginning in the 2027–2028 school year. Read more.

On Thursday and Friday night, MCPS hosted Gold Star Gala events which honored a teacher and a supporting service staff member from every school and office in the district. It was an honor to attend to celebrate Ms. Amanda Lawrence, an English Language Development teacher and Mr. Jorge Cedillo, a Security Team Member. Both contribute greatly to the CHS community and I am proud they are at our school. Congratulations Mandy and Jorge!

The Math Honor Society held a week-long fundraiser that ended with Mr. Bassett getting pied in the face on Friday (Pie Day). Thank you to Mr. Bassett for being a good sport and to Mr. Yates, Mr. Noland and Mr. Oben for also being this year's options for students to pie.

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

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.