CHS News

A small, but mighty CHS Math team earned a coveted THREEPEAT by earning the HCML County Championship on Wednesday, March 18th.

In the individual round, Jeremy Yang earned a perfect 6, while Albert Cao, Joe Li, Nathan Lu, and Leo Su all earned 5's to give us a narrow one-point lead over River Hill going into the team round. Then those same 5 math stars earned a perfect score together in the team round to seal both the victory and county championship!

Many of our CHS Mathletes earned individual awards for the season:

Nathan Lu placed 2nd and Jeremy Yang 3rd overall. Albert Cao was top senior, Joe Li top junior, Leo Su top freshman, Evan She top school performer, and Lyra Su regional qualifier.

They will all move on to compete at the American Regional Math League (ARML) at Penn State University May 29-30th.

We are so proud of our team's talent, dedication, and resilience! Way to go, Math Eagles!

Centennial's Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America competed at the state conference in Ocean City, MD. We had 42 members compete in various events from objective tests to performance events. Our top finishers were:

First Place:

• Blen Dalit - Future Business Leader

• Dilly Bollam and Akshita Sharma - Event Planning

• Awhile Chakravarthy, Hruday Sivakumar and Alex Zhang - Community Service Project

Second Place:

• Minah Hashmi - Financial Statement Analysis

Third Place:

• Brad Cao, Keerthan Malaisamy and Shreyas Nunna- Community Service Project

• Akhil Chakravartha and Hruday Sivakumar - Data Analysis

Fourth Place:

• Olivia Zhao - Human Resource Management

• Naha Parepally - Introduction to Public Speaking

These students qualify to compete this summer in San Antonio, Texas at the National FBLA Conference representing both Centennial and Maryland. Congrats to all of the participants. This group represented Centennial well!

Congratulations to the five Speech and Debate students who qualified for and competed at the BCFL Metro tournament this past Saturday:

• Alice Han
• Ana Gonzalez
• Shubha Kadari
• Ira Ahirrao
• Yukti Walvekar

We are so proud of the results:

• Ira Ahirrao and Yukti Walvekar placed first in Public Forum, defeating the tournament's top-seeded team
• Ana Gonzalez placed fourth in Dramatic Performance

With their strong finishes, Ira, Yukti, and Ana have qualified for Nationals in May.

Congratulations to our Science Olympiad teams who advance to States on April 18th!!! Our Varsity team, came in first place and our JV team placed 5th!

Congratulations to the students who earned medals in the following events:

Varsity:

• 1st Place: Anatomy and Physiology - Kelly & Matthew; Astronomy - Henry & Sami; Boomilever - Saif & Pavi; Codebusters - Henry & Rishit & Sylvia; Designer Genes - Matthew & Rohan; Disease Detectives - Kelly & Nayeon; Dynamic Planet - Henry & Satvik; Helicopter - Pavi & Rohan; Robot Tour - Lyra & Sylvia; Rocks and Minerals - Henry & Sarika

• 2nd Place: Bungee Drop - Harry & Pavi; Circuit Lab - Lyra & Samir; Hovercraft - Harry & Saif; Remote Sensing - Samir & Satvik;

• 3rd Place: Chemistry Lab - Matthew & Srihas; Entomology - Nayeon & Satvik; Experimental Design - Kelly & Rishit & Rohan; Forensics - Nayeon & Sarika; Materials Science - Lyra & Srihas; Water Quality - Sarika & Srihas

• 4th Place: Electric Vehicle - Harry & Saif

• 6th Place: Machines - Lyra & Sylvia

B Team:

• 2nd Place: Materials Science - Olivia & Ray
• 3rd Place: Anatomy & Physiology - Raina & Rudra; Astronomy - Olivia & Ray; Bungee Drop - Nishanth & Rudra; Dynamic Planet - Ray & Shalisa; Electric Vehicle - Ishan & Jaisai; Helicopter - Jaisai & Swara
• 4th Place: Entomology - Arwin & Yi-Sa; Hovercraft - Nishanth & Ray
• 5th Place: Codebusters - Aneesh & Doria & Olivia; Designer Genes - Raina & Yi-Sa; Experimental Design - Aakansh & Aneesh & Doria; Robot Tour - Ishan & Swara
• 6th Place: Engineering CAD - Ishan & Jaisai

For the second year in a row, students in the Humanities II program participated in the C-Span StudentCam student documentary project. This year we are thrilled to announce that two of the films were selected as winners in the nationwide competition, which asked students to explore the enduring impact of the Declaration of Independence by examining how its values reflect upon a contemporary issue.

Please join us in congratulating these talented filmmakers:

3rd Prize (High School East Division)

Students: Alara Kocuglu, Angela Yang, and Satvik Jain (pictured left to right)

Documentary: Removed: The Past, Present, and Future of Book Censorship in America

This compelling documentary examines how the foundational values of the Declaration of Independence intersect with contemporary debates on freedom of expression and censorship.

Link to documentary

Honorable Mention

Students: Katie Fishman & Rachel Weintraub (pictured left to right)

Documentary: The 51st Star: D.C. Statehood and the Broken Promise of the Declaration

This insightful piece explores the contemporary issue of D.C. statehood through the lens of the Declaration's promise of self-governance and representation.

Link to documentary

These students have demonstrated exceptional research, critical thinking, and production skills. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and their powerful contributions to the national conversation!

Congratulations to all of our students who were recognized as Student of the Month for February

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.

• March 22 - CHS Boosters host Pickleball, 4-6 PM, tickets
• March 23 - Orchestra Spring Concert, 7 PM
• March 24 - Band Spring Concert, 7 PM
• March 25 - Choir Spring Concert, & PM
• March 26 - Dancing With the Staff, 7 PM
• April 6 - CALENDAR CHANGE - Full Day of School for Students; A Day
• April 10 - ASVAB Testing
• April 15 - CALENDAR CHANGE - 3-Hour Early Dismissal for Students; B Day
• April 15 - One Centennial Career Day
• April 17 - GT Student Learning Conference
• April 22 - Pre-Prom Assembly for all Juniors and Seniors, 8:30 -10:30 AM
• April 23 & 24 - Spring Dance Concert, 7 PM
• April 25 - Prom
• April 27 - Athletics Decision Day, 3 PM, gym
• May 2 - CHS Booster Bash, 6 -9:30 PM, tickets
• May 14 - CALENDAR CHANGE - Full Day of School for Students; B Day
• May 18 - June 4, 2026 - Class of 2026 Graduation Window
• June 16- CALENDAR CHANGE - Inclement Weather Make-up Days; 3-Hour Early Dismissal Days for Students; A Day
• June 17 - CALENDAR CHANGE - Inclement Weather Make-up Days; 3-Hour Early Dismissal Days for Students; B Day
• June 18 - CALENDAR CHANGE - Inclement Weather Make-up Days; 3-Hour Early Dismissal Days for Students; A Day

Friday, March 20, 2026 - No School for Students

Saturday, March 21, 2026 - First Day of In-Season Games!

National History Day Competition @ GPHS

10:00AM Duckworth Relays at Glenelg HS

10:30AM/12PM JV/V Boys Lacrosse vs Hammond HS

10:30AM/12PM JV/V Girls Lacrosse @ Hammond HS

11:00AM V Baseball, V Softball and Tennis @ Wilde Lake HS

11:00AM JV Baseball vs Wilde Lake HS

Monday, March 23, 2026

3:45PM Track Meet at Centennial HS

4:15PM V Baseball, V Softball and Tennis vs Hammond HS

4:15PM JV Baseball & JV Softball @ Hammond HS

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

4:30/6PM JV/V Girls Lacrosse vs Southern HS

4:30/6PM JV/V Boys Lacrosse @ Southern HS (admission charge for AA Co games)

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

2:45PM Athlete Picture Day (schedule sent to coaches)

3:30PM Math League

6:00PM Council of Elders Meeting @ Howard HS

Thursday, March 26, 2026

4/5:30PM JV/V Boys Lacrosse vs Glenelg HS

4/5:30PM JV/V Girls Lacrosse @ Glenelg HS

4:15PM V Baseball, V Softball and Tennis vs Marriotts Ridge HS

4:15PM JV Baseball & JV Softball @ Marriott Ridge HS

7:00PM Dancing With the Staff!!

Friday, March 27, 2026

4/5:30PM JV/V Girls Lacrosse vs Wilde Lake HS

4/5:30PM JV/V Boys Lacrosse @ Wilde Lake HS

4:15PM V Baseball, V Softball and Tennis vs Reservoir HS

4:15PM JV Baseball & JV Softball @ Reservoir HS

5:00PM March Madness in the cafe

SPRING BREAK 3/27 - 4/5!

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Varsity Baseball Spring Break Tournament @ Blandair Park:

1:30PM CHS vs Crofton HS

6:30PM CHS vs Walter Johnson HS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE WEEK…

Way to go Boys and Girls Lacrosse–all 4 teams won their scrimmages this week! Looks like it’s going to be a pretty exciting season on the turf 🎉

Congratulations to our Band students on this week’s assessments – we heard they did a fantastic job!

ALERT: The Math League won the County Championships…Bravo!!!

The Game Day Operations Club is in full swing and we’re looking for students interested in assisting with the set-up, tickets, clock, officials, and visiting team at our upcoming Spring events! Contact Mrs. Clark, if you’re interested in joining the club!

Our beautiful singers have returned to our athletic events to sing the National Anthem and we are so happy to have you at our events! It’s not too late to audition. See Ms. Vanover or Mr. Traver if you’re interested in performing.

ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES NEWS

Hey Winter Athletes…

It’s time to celebrate all your accomplishments this past season! Make sure to save the date–

Wednesday, April 8th during Eagle Time in the cafe!

The Fall Celebration was a hit and we can’t wait to treat our Winter athletes as well! Families, we hope you’ll consider signing up to make a snack/breakfast donation to our athletes HERE!

If your student is committed to playing a competitive sport at the next level, please take a moment to fill out the Decision Day form. Please be sure to complete the form by April 10th so we can include your student in the celebration!

If you are committed to pursuing a major/minor in the visual or performing arts in college, including for visual art, dance, theater, music, photography, etc., please take a moment to fill out the CHS Arts Decision Day Form.

We are excited to celebrate our performing and visual artists on Decision Day, which will be held in the Centennial High School auditorium at a date in the Spring to be determined. This is a special opportunity to celebrate and elevate the arts and to recognize your hard work, dedication, and accomplishments as you continue your artistic journey beyond high school. Please be sure to complete the form by April 10th so we can include you in the celebration. We are proud of you and look forward to celebrating your achievement!

This spring, Howard County Rec & Parks are excited to offer a Middle School and High School Girls Flag Football League, beginning in mid-April. Our goal is to provide girls in the community another chance to develop their skills and gain experience ahead of HCPSS's inaugural season offering girls flag football as a varsity sport. See the flier for more information!

Athletic Picture Day is coming up on Wednesday, March 25th! Use the QR code to place your orders: Picture Day Form

Let’s Go, Eagles!!

Follow your favorite teams on Fan Hudl

Our lost and found is with clothing, lunch boxes, and water bottles...oh so many water bottles!

All of the items will be on tables in front of the cafeteria next week, so please be sure to look them over and claim your lost items. Items that are not claimed will be donated to charity.

Thanks!

Get ready! CHS Anime Club is proud to announce that this year’s Otakufest will be held on Thursday, April 16th from 4:30 to 8:00 PM.

There will be a spicy ramen eating contest, cosplay contests, Anime-themed jeopardy, Vendor's/Artist's Alley (including a mini-pancakes stand), and so much more!

Online tickets can be bought here https://tinyurl.com/otakufest2026tickets and close April 15th. There is a mandatory google form that goes with each ticket purchase.

Additionally, we have food vouchers available! If you want to reserve pizza, chips, and a drink for yourself, go to https://tinyurl.com/otakufest2026foodvoucher and purchase a $5 food voucher.

For more details on the event, please check out our website https://chs-otakufest.weebly.com/ .

We can’t wait to see you there!

Attention Juniors and Seniors!

PROM tickets are now available at a discounted rate of $85 per ticket. Ticket prices will go up to $95 per ticket on April 6, and the cut off date for sales is April 12. Tickets will be available for pick up during lunch shifts the week of April 20.

Purchase your ticket now here: Discounted Prom Tickets

Prom Details:

• DATE: Saturday, April 25
• TIME: 7 - 10 PM
• LOCATION - Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD 21230

Parking available in the gated lot for 150 vehicles

Bringing a guest? Print out and complete the guest form and turn in to the front office by Monday, April 6th.

Make sure to bring your ticket and photo ID the night of the event!

Want to see your favorite staff member dance to Iconic musical showtunes and compete for the title of Dancing with the Staff Champion?! Come out and support the dance program by attending our biggest fundraiser of the year dancing with the Staff: On Broadway, Thursday March 26th, at 7PM.

Admission is free, so please join us to cheer on our participants. You can purchase votes to be sure your favorite dancing staff member wins! Pre-order your discount voting bundles on OSP available now! Rates will go up during the show. All proceeds go to Centennial Dance, thank you in advance!

Link to purchase: https://osp.osmsinc.com/HowardMD/BVModules/ProductTemplates/Bvc2013/Product.aspx?productid=DA041-1592

Current voting rates: 1$ - 2 votes

5$ - 10 votes

10$ - 22 votes

20$ - 46 votes

50$ - 120 votes

State law requires that all public schools in Maryland survey students about school climate. The purpose of the survey is to gain valuable information about the quality and character of each school’s learning environment so that schools can promote a climate that supports student learning.

Students will take the Maryland School Survey during regular school hours on either March 23rd or 24th. The survey will ask students about topics such as student engagement, interactions with adults, and with other students in the school, the school environment, bullying, and safety. The survey will not ask about a student’s personal experiences, and students will not be asked to provide any information that might violate their privacy.

The survey is confidential, and school personnel will not have access to the responses of specific students. The responses your child provides will be combined with the responses from other students in the school, and results will be reported for each school and district.

We are eager to receive this very important information about your student’s school and about schools across the state.

If you have any questions about this survey, please contact Mr. White at Frank_White@hcpss.org.

If you are making plans to have your child out of school for appointments, please be aware of the spring testing schedule:

English 10

• Testing Window: April 16–17

• 1st Make-Up Window: April 21–24

Algebra 2

• Testing Window: April 20–23

• 1st Make-Up Window: April 28–30

Biology

• Testing Window: May 11–14

• 1st Make-Up Window: May 21–24

Algebra 1 & Government

• Testing Window: May 18–21

• May 25 and 27 are no school days — no testing may occur.

• Make-Up Days Only: May 26, May 28, May 29

Send some love and encouragement to your student before AP exams!

The class of 2028 will be selling goodie bags from March 16th until April 10th. Bags cost $5 each and will be similar to the picture below. They will include some snacks, supplies, and inspiring messages to boost confidence before AP exams. Bags will be delivered at the end of the week before AP exams begin.

Click here to purchase a bag for your student!

The Shrine of St Anthony allows photography sessions on its grounds and courtyard. This is a lovey spot that is frequently used by our students for prom and graduation photos.

Unfortunately, on the following dates, the Shrine will be closed to the public due to special events taking place on the property: Saturday, April 4th , Saturday, April 25th, Saturday, May 16th, Saturday, May 23rd, and Friday and Saturday, June 12th and 13th

The Shrine property will not be open for photos on the dates listed above. If you wish to visit the property another time for photos, please call the Shrine Office at 410-531-2800.

Are you a current sophomore that’s ready to take the next step of your leadership journey? Leadership U [LU] is a transformative 5-month leadership program for high school juniors in Howard County, MD, offering opportunities to activate your leadership skills, network with peers and community leaders, and make a difference through student-led team projects.

Applications for the 2026 program are open! Current sophomores can apply on the LHC website at Leadership U - Leadership Howard County. The application process will be open for students until April 6, 2026, with interviews taking place in late April and the program commencing in Summer 2026 as students begin their junior year.

Want to learn more? Info sessions will be held in February and March with updates located on the LHC website. Questions? Contact Program Coordinator, Alli Eastham, at aeastham@leadershiphc.org and follow us on social media @lhcleads.

Our heartfelt thanks to the families who have sent tissues to our school!

It was a long winter and we are all looking forward to warmer weather, which of course, means that allergy season will be upon us! That being said, we will need plenty of tissues on hand!

Are you participating in a summer program, a pre-college summer program, or applying for a summer internship which requires an official high school transcript? Please use the link below to request official transcripts (this link is not to be used for requesting transcripts for college applications). Questions? Contact the CHS registrars.

https://forms.gle/HuJRySbPYwAkScZu9

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.

The window for the Class of 2026 high school graduations is May 18-June 4, 2026. Specific graduation information for the Class of 2026 is forthcoming!

Howard County Public School System high school graduation ceremonies have long been held at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia. The schedule of events and concerts at the venue can be fluid, even up to graduations. Students, parents/guardians, and family members understandably are anxiously awaiting their specific graduation details, as plans and travel arrangements need to be made.

HCPSS will share these details as soon as staff receive confirmation from Merriweather that our proposed schedule is approved. Traditionally, that information has not been available until late-March/mid-April.

Complete graduation information will be posted online when available.

Class of 2026 Senior banners on sale now for $45. Banners are on sale through March 27.

These banners hang in our Gym/Auditorium halls from April 13, until distributed at your graduation rehearsal. Banners are 36 X 24 vinyl and perfect for either an indoor or outdoor graduation celebration events.

Order yours now through our OSP store with this direct link: https://osp.osmsinc.com/p/DA041-671.

Remember to complete the Google Form (on OSP) when placing your order so we can print your congratulatory quote as requested.

Delegate Terri Hill is pleased to announce that her 2026-2027 Scholarship Application is now available online and can be accessed at Scholarship Program – Delegate Terri Hill, MD District 12A. The scholarship is opened to graduating High School students. Priority will be given to Howard County, Maryland District 12A residents. Please share this information with your graduating seniors.

Please inform students that they should follow the instructions as outlined in the Scholarship Application Page to prevent any delays in processing their application. Also note that the deadline for submitting application is April 15, 2026.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Delegate Hill’s office via this email at Terri.Hill@house.maryland.gov.

The Kappa Alpha Psi Scholarship Foundation (KAPSF) is pleased to once again offer our scholarships! Eligible applicants must:

• Be a graduating senior in Howard county wit at least a 3.0 GPA or higher
• Plan to attend a college, university, trade, or vocational school for Fall of 2026

Applications are due by April 21, 2026.

The deadline for the 2026 Spirit Award Scholarship is Sunday, March 20.

The link for the application is: 2026 ZACHING SPIRIT AWARD SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION | Zaching Against Cancer Foundation

The link for the nomination letter is: ZACHING SPIRIT AWARD NOMINATION FORM | Zaching Against Cancer Foundation

Both forms may be found on our website: www.zachingagainstcancer.org under "Programs & Services".

The foundation was started by the late Zachary Lederer, a graduate of Centennial High School.

Seniors, please consider applying for PTSA's 2026 Senior Scholarship program. Any graduating CHS senior going on for further education in a 2-4 year program is eligible to apply. Four winners will be awarded a scholarship of $500 each.

See the application materials for more information.

Boosters is proud to offer four graduating seniors our annual scholarships of $500. Deadline is April 24.

Application and more information found here: https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/blank

The Matthew W. Watson Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of Matt Watson, Class of 2005. He was a loving son, brother, friend, and beloved member of the Centennial High School Community. This scholarship supports undergraduate students attending the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD). The scholarship award is up to $2,000 and is renewable based upon availability of funds and recipients maintaining good academic standing. Special consideration is given to applicants who demonstrate the passion, humor, and talents that Matt Watson exemplified, and those who provide compelling, thoughtful, genuine, and thorough essay responses.

Applications due by May 1st, link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfmxszFmZUsX71R_IvHGmaoknCMTazaoa-dKOLe8Lg7KMiPuA/viewform

The Charlotte Spitalnic Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Centennial High School class of 2025 student, Charlotte Spitalnic. One or more scholarships of $2,500 will be awarded.

CHS seniors with a passion for choir and/or theater and willingness to share how they have demonstrated leadership and compassion for others are invited to apply.

The application is available at: application

The Emily Scott Memorial Scholarship was established by the Scott Family to honor the life and legacy of Emily Scott, a 2018 Centennial graduate who touched the lives of many in school and our community.

Two Centennial High School students will be awarded $2,500 scholarships. Applications are due Monday, April 13th. APPLY HERE TODAY!"

Yard Signs are the perfect way to celebrate your upcoming graduation!

The signs can be ordered at https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/senior-signs through April 30th.

Adults and high school students are invited to play Pickleball on Sunday, March 22, from 4-6 PM.

For more information and tickets: https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/general-7

Booster's biggest fundraiser of the year is back on May 2, from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Get your early bird tickets today before prices go up on April 15! Family and corporate sponsorships are also available! https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/about-3

Booster Bash Silent Auction: Donations needed and welcome for the 2026 Booster Bash Silent Auction! If you would like to donate a basket, service, gift card please contact Lauri Doody at lauridoody@gmail.com

Summer camp registration has begun! Sign up now for early bird prices before May 1. https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/summer-camps

Hey CHS Students, Faculty, and Staff! The CTE Award is back!

The Commitment to Excellence (CTE) Award is given by PTSA to a member of the CHS Faculty or Staff who personifies a commitment to excellence in our CHS community.

Do you know a faculty or staff member who inspires you by their dedication to and insistence on excellence from themselves and those around them? Recognize their importance in our community by nominating them for a CTE award!

Use this link to find more information and to fill out a nomination form for someone that you are grateful to as a role model. Nominations will be accepted through April 30, and the award will be given out in May.

After Prom will be here before you know it!

We are excited to host After Prom this year at the Supreme Sports Club on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:30 PM-2:00 AM. We are currently looking for help organizing After Prom and for getting raffle donations for the event. Please see the Signup Genius links below to sign up to volunteer and to donate for the raffle.

If you are interested in helping with After Prom, please sign up below or email afterprom-chair@chs-ptsa.org.

Volunteer Signup Genius link:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A45AAAB2FABF4C07-61632066-2026#/

Donation Signup Genius link:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A45AAAB2FABF4C07-61632566-after#/

Are you ready to navigate the college application and admission process?

The Answer Class will be hosting "Inside the College Admission Maze: A Parent's Road Map" on April 20, from 7 - 8:15 MP in the CHS Media Center.

Sign up for Free @ www.theanswerclass.com or use the QR code on the flyer.

REMINDERS WHEN DROPPING OFF STUDENTS IN THE MORNING:

Parents - PLEASE stay in your lane. Do NOT drop students off in the left lane. This is dangerous. Stay to the right. Do NOT cut through the parking lot.

Drop-off occurs only in the right lane. Students who must be driven to school are to be dropped off either on the sidewalk next to Burleigh Manor or at 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.

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!

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.

In partnership with the Howard County Office of Human Rights & Equity (OHRE), the inaugural Belonging Architect program is being offered for the 2026-27SY, kicking off with a summer institute at Oakland Mills High School during the week of July 13th through July 17th.

The application for student participation is an open invitation to any student who will be in high school in HCPSS during the 2026-27SY. Our goal is to have representation from each high school.

Below you will find relevant information:

• Application (open until May 8, 2026)

• Fliers: English, Spanish, Korean, and Chinese

• Website

The purpose of the Belonging Architect program is to:

• Establish channels of collaboration between students and school administration to co-create cultures of belonging.

• Provide access to professional training to level up student driven outcomes.

• Expand student definition of leadership to encompass key concepts of equity through strategic HCPSS partners.

Questions? Please contact Shannon Keeny and Danielle DuPuis.

West Point Leaders of Character Seminar (WPLCS), hosted at Loyola University Maryland in partnership with Loyola University Maryland Army ROTC.

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 25th from 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Loyola University Maryland, McGuire Hall, 4501 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210
Cost: Free

The West Point Leadership and Character Seminar (WPLCS), co-hosted by United States Military Academy cadets and Loyola University Maryland ROTC cadets, is a full-day leadership development experience designed for high school students in grades 8–11.

Participants will engage in interactive breakout sessions, hear from keynote speakers, and take part in meaningful discussions focused on leadership, character, and decision-making. Guided by cadets preparing to become Army officers through both West Point and ROTC, students will gain practical tools they can apply in school, athletics, and their communities.

The program highlights the Army’s dual pathways to officership while reinforcing timeless values of integrity, service, resilience, and teamwork.

Following the seminar, students and families are invited to attend an optional West Point information session. Students may also register separately to complete the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) HERE.

Here is the registration link: WPLCS Registration Form.

West Point Leadership and Character Seminar Scholarships of $2,500, $1,500, and $1,000 Awarded!

Skyy 2 Win Youth Foundation is excited to once again offer our Spring Break Basketball Camp, returning for its 9th year!

This year’s camp will run Monday, March 30 through Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. The camp is open to boys and girls in grades 3–9 (ages 9–14) and is a great way for kids to stay active during spring break while improving their basketball skills.

• SPRING BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP

Calendar of Events:

• April 7, 2026- HoCo Student Film Festival/HC DrugFree Category Submission Deadline

• May 1, 2026 - HoCo Film Festival at Miller Library

For more information on how high school students can join the HC DrugFree team, as well as information on free Narcan training and kits, safe storage of meds, sharps disposal, and more, visit the HC DrugFree website.

Important Dates:

March 18, 25, April 8, 22, 29 - Free Life Skills Classes

March 20 - First Day of Spring

March - Problem Gambling Month

March - Women's History Month

March - Self-Injury Awareness Month

March - Developmental Disability Awareness Month

April 7 - HoCo Film Festival/HC DrugFree Category Submission Deadline

April 25 - Drive-Thru Medication Collection

May 1 - HoCo Student Film Festival at Miller Library

HC DrugFree will again present this popular parenting class for Howard County parents, guardians, and grandparents. The curriculum is written for adults with children between 9-14, but we believe it is appropriate for families with children in K-12. Adult or child must be a Howard County resident.

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

Learn how to:

• Prevent Drug Use in Your Family

• Develop Healthy Beliefs and Clear Standards

• Avoid Trouble and Respond to Peer Pressure

• Manage Conflict and Express Feelings Constructively

• Strengthen Family Bonds

• And More!

Class dates: April 14, 15, 21, 22 and an optional class on April 28. This program will meet via Zoom for 5 classes, and adults are encouraged to attend all 5 sessions. Learn more or register. Please include any questions or comments on the registration form.

Our Spring 2026 Life Skills classes are underway, and we have already completed the first three sessions. The Instructional Team learned about understanding media messages and are now starting an interactive poster and data visualization project where they create prevention campaigns based on real data.

Howard County high school students are still welcome to join our Spring 2026 Instructional Team to help support the college students teaching the classes and mentor younger participants during the upcoming sessions.

This is a great opportunity to:

• Earn Community Service Hours

• Mentor younger students

• Gain leadership experience for resumes and college applications

Remaining Class Dates: March 18, March 25, April 8, April 22, April 29

Time: 5:15 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. on Zoom

Instructional Team members are encouraged to join at 4:45 p.m. (30 minutes before class) for a short briefing on the day’s activities and to provide feedback on a special project. Team members must remain on camera to serve as visible, engaged role models for younger students.

Register. Learn more.

Free! HC DrugFree invites all Howard County students in grades 8-12 to join our Teen Advisory Council (TAC).

There will be no April meeting because we have other teen events scheduled, so save the date for May 4 TAC meeting and be sure to volunteer for our Saturday, April 25 medication collection.

Students: If you have not submitted a 2025-26 registration, please complete this form. 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.

Do you enjoy watching films? Do you like making films? The HoCo Student Film Festival is now accepting submissions!

The deadline to submit your films is April 7th, 2026 and the film festival will be held at the Miller Branch of the Howard County Library on May 1st at 7:00pm. Check out our website: https://hocofilmfest.weebly.com/ or go see your library media specialist for more information.

So grab that camera and start filming YOUR story!

Films can range from:

1. Genre story-based films: Students create a fictional story-based film under the genre of their choosing. (Comedy, Drama, Romance, Horror, etc.)

1. HC Drug Free PSA’s: Students can submit PSA’s under the HC Drug Free category, highlighting the theme: In the Know: Fake Pills, Real Danger. If you would like to reach out to your health teachers, here is a PSA lesson for possible collaboration.

1. A story-based or documentary style video for the HoCo 250 Commission celebrating America’s 250th year: The Howard County Student Film Festival is honored to collaborate with the Youth Engagement Committee on the HoCo 250 Commission to create a category for Howard County students honoring this anniversary. Students can create story-based or documentary-style films encompassing the theme: Redefining Patriotism.

Please consider donating to support the HoCo Film Festival. All proceeds go directly to monetary prizes and trophies for students.

• 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.