TSHS Cougar News

please click the link provided below.

TSHS Student Handbook

The CCPS Code of Student Conduct committee made some changes to the guiding document for the 2026-2027 school year. Some of the changes this year include the following.

• Addition of State Policy language.
• Added language about student use (and misuse) of artificial intelligence (AI).
• Added language about food deliveries to schools.
• Section added about cybersecurity protections and student data privacy.
• Student personal property definition updated to include coats (must be stored in lockers), ski masks not allowed to be worn by students in schools, and guidelines related to the use of medical masks by students in school (requires medical/parent/school nurse documentation).
• Added smart glasses to prohibited items under computer, technology misuse section.

Other changes include updates to the levels of response section of the document. To view the updated Code of Student Conduct, visit https://www.ccboe.com/o/studentservices/page/code-of-student-conduct.

Students receive a copy of the Code of Student Conduct the first day of school, and parents must sign and return the acknowledgement page and send it back to Thomas Stone HS.

Cougar families,

As the first quarter comes to a close on Tuesday, October 27, I encourage families to review their child’s grades, celebrate their progress, and discuss areas where additional support may be needed. Students should use these remaining days to stay focused, meet assignment deadlines, and communicate with their teachers. Let’s work together to finish the quarter strong!

I also want to commend the many students who come to school each day, follow expectations, and do the right thing even when no one is watching. Your positive choices reflect Cougar P.R.I.D.E. and strengthen our school community. As high school students, our Cougars must also take responsibility for their choices and understand that violations of school rules may result in consequences. Families, thank you for reinforcing these expectations at home.

With the cooler weather, please remember that our updated dress code requires students to place their large coats in their lockers at the start of the school day.

Parent-Teacher Conference Day is Friday, November 6. A separate email will be sent to families early next week with instructions for signing up for conference times with teachers. These conversations provide a valuable opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and identify next steps to support their success.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our Cougars!

Principal

CTE application opens Oct. 23

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) application opens for current eighth-grade students and high school students who are sophomores and juniors.

The application will open at 3 p.m., Friday, Oct. 23. Those who attempt to access the application before will find the message, “This form is currently not accepting responses.”

An email about the application will be sent Friday afternoon to CCPS eighth graders, sophomores and juniors through Synergy mail, and their parents via Apptegy.

For more information, visit www.ccboe.com.

Town hall set for Nov. 19

The Board of Education of Charles County is hosting a virtual Town Hall on Thursday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. The Town Hall topic is safety and it is open to the public. Attendees must have an active Zoom account to join. The access link is below.

https://ccboe.zoom.us/j/83429163460?pwd=sdTOtofmIm0w6N0Ng7iy84HbQg9vtI.1

The Town Hall will stream live on the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) website at www.ccboe.com. Parents, staff, students and community members are encouraged to attend. Comments and questions from attendees will be moderated through the Zoom chat.

Questions, comments and/or other ideas shared at the Town Hall by attendees should reference education-related topics. The Board and CCPS staff will answer submissions during the

Town Hall as time permits.

Following the Town Hall, a recording will be posted on the CCPS website at https://www.ccboe.com/page/town-hall-events.

Pink Out is Oct. 29

CCPS staff and students are encouraged to wear pink on Thursday, Oct. 29, to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Wearing pink is a way to show support for those who have passed away from cancer, who are fighting the disease and those who have cared for someone with it.

Use #ccpspinkout26 on social media to share photos.

will be held on Tuesday November 10, 2026. The Board Meeting will begin promptly at 1:00pm

followed by the Public Forum at 6:00pm.

On Thursday, October 22, 2026, Thomas Stone High School's AVID I students had an exciting opportunity to visit Northwest Stadium, home of the Washington Commanders, for

Business Sports Day!

This educational field trip was part of the students' Career Exploration experience, providing them with an opportunity to learn about the many career paths available within the professional sports industry. Beyond the excitement of the game itself, students explored how business, marketing, management, communications, and other professions contribute to the success

of a professional sports organization.

The experience helped students make real-world connections between their education and future career possibilities while encouraging them to think beyond traditional career paths.

What an incredible opportunity for our 9th grade AVID students to explore new possibilities, gain valuable insight, and discover that the world of sports offers so much more than

what happens on the field!

💙💛

Grab lunch or dinner at Panda Express while also supporting the SGA freshman class! Place your order for pickup or delivery on Thursday, October 29 to any Panda Express location nationwide. Apply code 9020246 in the Fundraiser Code box during online checkout at

www.pandaexpress.com or via App.

The class of 30' appreciates your support!

Junior student De'Shae Kosa represented Thomas Stone at the 2026 Healthy Teen Network National Conference, held October 5–7, 2026, in San Diego, California.

The conference, themed “Made to Belong,” brought together educators, health professionals, youth advocates, and young leaders from across the country to focus on adolescent health, wellness, personal growth, and the importance of creating supportive environments where young people can thrive.

Through initiatives such as Thrivology: The Science of How Young People Thrive, the conference emphasized the importance of empowering young people, building healthy relationships, and encouraging positive youth development.

We are proud to see our students taking advantage of opportunities that broaden their perspectives, strengthen their leadership skills, and allow them to represent Thomas Stone High School beyond the classroom.

Way to represent, Cougar! We are proud of you! 💙💛

Thomas Stone High School is proud to congratulate

Ms. De'Anna Burris, our Food and Nutrition/ProStart Teacher,

on being selected as a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction

by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS)!

This prestigious recognition celebrates educators who demonstrate outstanding dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence in education. What makes this honor even more special is that Ms. Burris was nominated by one of her very own students! Her nomination is a wonderful reflection of the positive impact she has made in the classroom and the inspiration she

provides to the students she teaches each day.

Ms. Burris exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated educator, mentor, and role model. Her commitment to student success and her passion for teaching truly embody the spirit of

Thomas Stone High School.

Ms. Burris, you represent Thomas Stone High School and everything that COUGAR PRIDE stands for! We are incredibly proud of you and this well-deserved recognition!

CONGRATULATIONS! 💙💛

A huge CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Mr. Kendrick Wells, Transition Specialist at Thomas Stone High School, for being featured in the latest edition of ActionLine Magazine (Volume 27, Issue 1), the official magazine of the Maryland State Education Association (MSEA)!

Mr. Wells is a holistic educator whose diverse life experiences, professional background, and multidisciplinary education provide him with a unique perspective on what it truly means to connect with students. His dedication to ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, valued, and supported is a reflection of his passion for education and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.

We are incredibly proud to have Mr. Wells as part of our Thomas Stone family! His story is an inspiring reminder that our personal journeys and experiences can help shape the lives of others.

Want to learn more about Mr. Wells and the journey that led him to where he is today? Read his featured article below!

👉 Meet Kendrick Wells – MSEA ActionLine Magazine

Mr. Wells, thank you for your dedication, passion, and commitment to our students. You are a shining example of what it means to represent COUGAR PRIDE to its fullest!

💙💛 CONGRATULATIONS, MR. WELLS! GO COUGARS! 💙💛

💙💛 CONGRATULATIONS to our amazing ACHIEVE Teacher, Ms. DaKeisha Anderson, for being selected by her peers as our Super Stone Staff Member of the Month!

This special recognition reflects the appreciation and respect she has earned from her colleagues through her dedication, compassion, and commitment to student success. Her hard work and positive impact on our school community do not go unnoticed!

Thank you for going above and beyond for our students and staff and for representing

COUGAR PRIDE to its fullest!

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 💙💛

Financial Aid Update

The 2027-2028 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open for the Class of 2027. The FAFSA will provide Federal Financial Aid information to the student, parent/guardian on eligibility for aid. This tool assists 2- or 4-year colleges, vocational or trades school develop a financial aid package. The financial aid packages are historically ready in February/March and can consist of Grants (Gift Aid) and Loans. This is why applying for scholarships is very important.

https://studentaid.gov/articles/things-you-need-for-fafsa/

Class of 2027 Reminders

Welcome back, make sure to complete the Class of 2027 Survey - https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/yN1NBBqwtc

this will help Ms. Morton assist you in you in your college planning.

College Visits to Thomas Stone (Career Center)

Fayetteville State University – Tuesday, October 27 9:30 am

Students interested in Career Exploration or the Military, the Fall Countywide ASVAB will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, for Juniors and Seniors only. REGISTER HERE by November 1, 2026. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=fts6jik6w0CD3e0PwztGw24wdg5hYflPp6nZ57u9ma1UQkJCTEk4TlU2WEVYMEtZTktZNzNMOTg2RC4u&route=shorturl

The next SAT is scheduled November 7, 2026. Registration Deadline is today, October 23, 2026. Late Registration Deadline October 27, 2026. Register here - www.collegeboard.org

The next ACT examination is on December 12, 2026. Registration deadline is November 6, 2026. Late Registration Deadline is November 29, 2026. Register here - www.actstudent.org

SAVE THE DATE

Destination Coppin Southern Maryland– Tuesday, October 27 at 6 p.m.

Thomas Stone High School will host the Southern Maryland information session of the Office of Admissions of Coppin State University. They will conduct on-site admissions and scholarship reviews. Plus, other departments will share information about their programs. Don’t miss this opportunity, register here - https://apply.coppin.edu/register/DestCoppSoMD26

Seniors bring transcripts for On-Site Admissions opportunities and scholarships.

Leadership Initiatives Information Session (Summer Internship - Georgetown University)

November 4, 2026

Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/R2d2pmfqTv

Internship program areas: AI & Emerging Technology, Business & International Leadership, Law/Political Science, Medicine and National Security & Diplomacy.

Create your Resume using the template in XELLO and send to Ms. Ransom in StudentVue this is for students needing a college letter of recommendation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Senior Sponsor - Ms. Alanda Phillips adphillips@ccboe.com

Senior Administrator - Mrs. Keri Loyd kloyd@ccboe.com

Senior Counselor - Ms. Hope Ransom hransom@ccboe.com

🎓 CLASS OF 2027 GRADUATION 🎓

📅 Wednesday, June 2, 2027

🕔 5:00 PM

📍 Regency Furniture Stadium

Senior dues are $150. The due date to pay senior dues is Friday, January 29, 2027. You can submit your payment by cash, check, or money order to Mr. Gilmer or Ms. Satchwell in the main office. This can be done between the hours of 8:00am – 2:30pm. Money orders and checks are to be made out to Thomas Stone High School, with the student’s name and ID number on the memo line. You can also pay online, with a debit or credit card by clicking on the link provided, Thomas Stone High School Senior Dues, scroll down until you see the "Senior Dues" ticket to purchase.

*Senior dues cannot be discounted, however if needed, they may be paid in smaller payments, to the main office, by cash, check, or money order, until the balance is paid off in full.

*Please note that if you choose to pay by credit card, there will be a fee added to the total amount.

You must contact CADY as soon as possible. CADY is the new photography partner for Shutterfly Lifetouch, LLC and will be providing all photography services for high schools throughout the district.

Don't miss this important milestone—schedule your senior photo session as soon as possible to ensure your portrait is included in the yearbook and other senior publications.

You must log in and register with CADY.

We look forward to seeing your amazing senior portraits!

Click on the link below to register or schedule your session at CADY Photography.

CADY Booking - Landing Page

Show Your TSHS Pride!

THOMAS STONE HIGH SCHOOL COUGARS - WALDORF, Maryland - Sideline Store - BSN Sports

Bringing back the Letterman Jackets!!!

Visit Jostens.com and search for Thomas Stone High School to order:

Letterman jackets

Class rings

Thomas Stone High School Waldorf, MD - Thomas Stone Online Jacket - Jostens

vist our website tscougarssports.com or email Kevin Heider, AD at kheider@ccboe.com

For all game schedules, visit SMAC Athletics

All tickets, for games and events, can be purchased on GOFan at https://gofan.co/app/school/MD24850 or using credit card at the events gate entrance. There is a fee for all home and away games. Make sure to look at the bottom of the event listed to see if it is in our back yard or theirs! You should purchase your ticket ahead of time, but tickets can also be purchased at the gate. Come and support our athletes and Thomas Stone High School!

Parents and guardians, please be advised that Thomas Stone High School staff can no longer accept paper copies of athletic physicals. All athletic physicals must be uploaded directly to the

athletic registration website.

For out-of-season workouts ONLY, emailed copies of athletic physicals will be accepted, provided they include the physician's signature and a valid examination date.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us ensure all student-athletes

have the required documentation on file!

CCPS will no longer absorb the $1 convenience fee for tickets to all sporting events sold via gofan.co. online or at the gate. Tickets that are $10 or less will include a $1 convenience fee, while tickets that cost more than $10 will include the $1 convenience fee plus an additional 5% of the face value of the ticket.

Hello Thomas Stone Families!

Thomas Stone High School is a Community School! Check out the Thomas Stone Community School Website for resource information, events and to sign-up for programs.

Thomas Stone Community School Website

Link: https://sites.google.com/view/thomasstonehs-communityschool/home

Look out for an email from Community Schools regarding the next Market Distribution and follow the link to register. If you have any questions, contact Ms. Coles, Community Schools Coordinator, at kcoles@ccboe.com

Community School is here to assist parent/guardians and students with assistance in completing applications for employment or resources. Please reach out to Mrs. Coles at krcoles@ccboe.com for additional information.

Charles County Health Department: Free Community Clinics

https://charlescountyhealth.org/flu-clinics/

Our dedicated Guidance Department plays a vital role in supporting the whole student. From academic advising and goal-setting to mental health support, college planning, and career readiness, our counselors are committed to helping students discover their strengths and reach their full potential. We encourage families and students to connect with their counselors regularly—together, we can ensure every student feels supported, confident, and prepared for what’s ahead.

Did you know that CCPS has partnered with Hazel Health, a tele-mental health service for CCPS students in middle and high school. During in-school appointments, students can visit virtually with a mental health specialist in a designated location in the school that provides privacy. Trained school staff will accompany students to and from the appointment. Parents and families can learn more about Hazel Health here.

Please see attached flyer for additional information.

October 23 - CTE Application Opens

October 24 - CCPS Fall Chess Tournament

October 24 - Make a Difference Day

October 27 - First marking period ends

October 27 - World Occupational Therapy Day

October 28 - Second Marking Period begins

October 30 - 2-hr Early Dismissal for Students

October 31 - Fall Festival - TSHS, 11am - 2pm

October 31 - Halloween

November 1 - Standard Time Begins, turn clocks BACK one hour

November 3 - Election Day - Schools closed for students and teachers

November 6 - Schools Closed for Students

November 6 - PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES - Look for an email to schedule your conferences

November 9 - Report Cards POSTED

Novermber 10- Board Meeting 1 p.m., Public Forum 6 p.m.

November 11 - Schools Closed - Veterans Day

November 13 - CTE Application closes

November 14 - Winter Sports begin

November 18 - National Education Support Professionals Day

November 19 - 2-hr Early Dismissal for Students

November 20 - Substitute Educators Day

November 25-27 - Thanksgiving Holiday - Schools Closed

At Thomas Stone High School, we believe that dressing appropriately helps create a respectful, focused, and safe learning environment for everyone. Please remember to follow the high school dress policy each day. This includes:

• Wearing clothing that is appropriate for a school setting. Shirts and dresses must have fabric in the front and on the sides which fully always covers the midriff.
• Avoiding items with offensive language, images, or references
• No ski masks nor face coverings, other than medical face masks, may be worn on school property, including your bus, or at your bus stop

By following the dress code, you're showing respect for yourself, your peers, and your school community. Let’s work together to maintain a positive and professional atmosphere where everyone can thrive!

If you have any questions about what’s allowed, please check the TSHS Student Handbook or the Charles County Student Code of Conduct linked above.

Parents and staff can opt-in to receive text message notifications from CCPS.

Text Y or YES to 67587 to opt-in. CCPS uses data from student and staff information systems to send text alerts. Parents who have a cell phone number on file with their child's school should update the school with any changes in order to avoid text notification issues.

Parents and staff can also get the latest information on the front of www.ccboe.com or any school website, by calling the 24-hour information line at 301-934-7410 or 301-932-6656, or visiting CCPS social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Please note: CCPS does not make an announcement if schools and offices

are open and running on time.

Parents and guardians who have opted in to receive texts from CCPS will also receive a text message alerting them of a closure or delay. CCPS shares information with local television and radio stations. However, reports are not always reliable.

Decisions are usually announced by 5 a.m.

9th - Dr. Jamila Mannie jmannie@ccboe.com

10th - Mr. Heiser mheiser@ccboe.com

11th - Mr. Werkheiser cwerkheiser@ccboe.com

12h - Mrs. Loyd kloyd@ccboe.com

Instructional AP - Ms. Djossou sdjossou@ccboe.com

To learn more about our Admin team, click the link below:

Administrative Team - Thomas Stone High School

Website: https://stone.ccboe.com/
Location: 3785 Leonardtown Road, Waldorf, MD, USA
Phone: (301)753-1756
Twitter: @CougarsTSHS