CHS News

Dr. Miller and seniors Yehji Hwang and Jennifer Littlefield honored Mr. Corey O’Brien, CHS Teacher of the Year, at the Board of Education on April 29. Mr. O’Brien, who teaches 12th grade English, humanities, and advanced composition, is revered and esteemed by students an staff.

Speaking on her experiences in Mr. O’Brien’s class, Yehji Hwang said, “Mr. O’Brien made us think…think about how we see the world and how we see ourselves in the world.”

In expressing his appreciation for the recognition, Mr. O’Brien spoke to the rewards of creating experiences for students where they learn from each other and the values of empathy and understanding.

Many thanks to the students and community members who spoke out on behalf of Centennial High School at the Board of Education meeting on May 1.

Our brave and articulate students were outstanding! Board member Dr. Chen said their presence and words were powerful!

On Saturday, April 26, members of Centennial's Math Team competed in the Johns Hopkins University Mathematics Tournament. Members competed in two individual rounds and one proof-based team round. We also attended two workshops led by JHU faculty and students.

Albert Cao won the 3rd place medal for the individual events!

Nathan Lu and Jeremy Yang attended independently of the team and they placed 7th and 8th, respectively.

The team competition results are still being tabulated, but a huge congratulations to our amazing individual winners!

Each year, high school students in the HCPSS engage in college-level academic research, which provides them with advanced skills. Congratulations to the below students who were selected to showcase their research at the annual Student Learning Conference on April 25:

• Divya Joon: Drowning in Data: How AI Can Predict and Prevent Flood Disasters
• Amy Gu: From Harm to Healing: Social Media's Role in Anorexia Recovery
• Tavroop Kaur: Where is the Love? Reigniting Students' Passion for Reading in School
• Sunny Yuan: The Personality Paradox: Can we Truly Change Who We Are?

Congratulations to the following students who placed in the Maryland HOSA Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference:

• Divya Umashankar – 1st place, Occupational Therapy
• Ananya Kallat – 2nd place Family Medicine Physician
• Shreya Sundaram – 2nd place, Patien Care Technician
• Rishit Chauhan – 2nd place, Prepared Speaking
• Nayeon Song – 3rd place, Epidemiology
• Kylie Moore – 3rd place, Respiratory Therapy
• Aditi Gunasekar – 3rd place, Community Awareness
• Taniska Balamurugan – 3rd place, Community Awareness
• Diya Bollam – 3rd place, Community Awareness
• Ravleen Kaur – 4th place, Medical Assisting

HOSA - Future Health Professionals is a professional student-led organization that encourages student leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and experience. Students are given access to classroom activities, job shadow opportunities, internships, and field-based investigations. Through these activities, students gain skills in personal management, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, employment foundations, and career development.

Congratulations to Yehji Hwang, who was one of 621 semifinalists to advance to the final round of the 2025 US Presidential Scholars Program.

The US Presidential Scholar Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of our Nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. The program has been extended to included accomplishments in visual, creative, and performing arts, as well as career and technical education fields. Participation in this program is an honor.

Congratulations to Anna Wang! Anna has earned two Associates of Arts ( A.A.) degrees from Howard Community College: A.A. General Studies - Liberal Arts and A.A. General Studies - Business Leadership and Technology.

Each year, thousands of Howard County students earn college credits before graduating high school through the JumpStart Dual Enrollment program. However, only a very small percentage of students leave high school with a full associate degree from Howard Community College. To earn an A.A. Degree while simultaneously pursuing a high school diploma, a student must demonstrate tremendous amounts of dedication and focus, in addition to high levels of academic achievement. The completion of 60 credit hours of college coursework during high school is, without a doubt, exceptional.

Congratulations to the following six students from CHS who participated in the National Apprenticeship Day at HCC on April 30:

• Mason Byrd
• Jessica Chen
• Kali Lloyd
• Erik Ortiz Torres
• Chris Pena
• Jairus Rice

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This was the last phase of the application process for them to become apprentices for next school year. The Apprenticeship Program allows students to "earn while they learn" by combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs cover a wide range of fields, including healthcare, technology, trades, and more.

Across the county, over 400 students applied to the program, which was narrowed down to 125 students for this final round of interviews.

We will not know the results of their interviews for a few weeks. We are proud of these students for making it to the final round of this rigorous application process and for trying for an opportunity that will directly benefit their futures.

Left to Right: Jessica Chen, Kali Lloyd, Jairus Rice, Chris Pena, Mason Byrd, Erik Ortiz Torres

Congratulations to:

...the newest inductees into our National Spanish Honor Society here at CHS!

...and to the newest inductees into our National French Honor Society!

All of these students are to be commended on their incredible work in world language and their commitment to furthering their studies!

The National English Honor Society held its annual Induction, Election, and Senior Recognition Ceremony on Thursday. During this time, we acknowledged our chapter's accomplishments from the 2024-2025 school year and inducted 43 new members. At present, we are still the largest chapter in the county and one of the most active in the state.

Centennial sent two JV teams to the National History Bowl and Bee in Crystal City, Virginia, April 25 to 26. After 13 grueling matches among 54 teams from around the country between 8 AM to 10 PM Saturday, we wound up at 7th place in the nation, which is our best finish at this tournament since 2013 when we finished in 2nd place.

Our A team: Satvik Jain (captain), Sahil Prasad, Henry Berger, Joshua Jon

The B team finished tied for 26th place (with 4 other teams): Nicholas Plastino (captain), Rohan Sengupta, Swara Rawat, Vikaas Srinivas

There were other side competitions with the following results:

Henry Berger: Trophy for 4th place in Political Science, Medal as CHAMPION for the Map and Flag competition, 2nd place in the US Geography Competition, Semifinalist National Geography Bee

Sahil Prasad: 8th place in the Academic Bee, 4th place in the Ancient History Competition, Semifinalist National History Bee

Satvik Jain: Semifinalist National Geography Bee, Semifinalist National History Bee

Congratulations to all of these outstanding students, and big thank you to our It’s Academic Coaches, Eric and Sara Seifter, and John Heslin.

Many thanks to these students for doing a great job!

On Tuesday, April 29, the CHS Band Program showcased students from all curricular and co-curricular groups. Mr. Matchim recognized the seniors in the band program and students performed beautifully--Bravo!

On Wednesday, April 30, Mr. Boggs hosted a Pops Concert featuring all of the curricular orchestras and groups. Congratulations on a great year, and congratulations graduating seniors!

Ms. Vanover and the students of the CHS Choirs presented their Pops concert after orchestra on Wednesday, April 30. A number of student small groups performed, in addition to the curricular and co-curricular choirs. 33 seniors were recognized for their efforts this year, and 18 of them have been involved for all 4 years. Congrats!

CHS celebrated the 23rd Annual Dance Concert on May 1, and 2.

Congratulations to all of the performers!

Centennial High School celebrated Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with a vibrant assembly showcasing music, dance, and fashion that reflected the rich traditions of our diverse student body. The AAPI assembly celebrated both ancient roots and modern voices, emphasizing the importance of understanding the past to shape the future. With heartfelt thanks to performers, volunteers, and organizers, the assembly left the community inspired to uplift cultural heritage while embracing growth and innovation.

Our Girls 4x800 meter relay team was one of 81 teams selected to compete at Penn Relays, April 24-26.

Congratulations to our team on finishing 12th in their heat with a time of 9:39, which is an outdoor track and field school record and ranks them top 10 in the state right now.

Left to Right: Caitlin Fritz, Allison Crumley, Kaylee Beal, Riley Herdson

Honoring our Senior Athletes!

We salute your athleticism and your exemplary sportsmanship!

Congratulations to our outstanding senior boys lacrosse players who were celebrated this week:

Left to Right: Thomas Osterholm, Maxwell Bruch, James Li, Rishi Selvamani, Mark Gamazaychikov, Caden Maynard, Logan Campbell, Matt Sedor, Senthan Seharaseyon

Congratulations to our outstanding senior girls lacrosse players:

Left to Right: Asst. Coach Todd Petrlik, Adria Welsh, Norah Cheung, Maya Parrish, Manager Allison Bryman, Assistant Coach Kelli Crum, Head Coach Kelsea Valance, Assistant Coach Evy Armstead

• May 1 & 2 - Spring Dance Concert, 7 PM, tickets here
• May 3 - STEM Expo, 8-11AM, Howard High School
  

• May 3 - Annual Boosters Bash, 7 PM, tickets here
• May 9 - CHS Athletic Hall of Fame Induction, 6 PM
• May 14 - BSU/Senior Kente Cloth Celebration, 6 PM
• May 20 - Last Day of School for Seniors
• May 21 - Class of 2028 Paint Night, 6-8 PM, CHS cafeteria
• May 28 - Graduation, 3 PM at Merriweather ***SCHOOL DISMISSES AT 1:50 PM***
• June 6 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early ***Calendar Change***
  
• June 9 - 13 - Full Days of School ***Calendar Change***
  
• June 16 - 17 Schools Close 3 Hours Early ***Calendar Change***
  
• June 18 - Last Day of School (if no other inclement weather days), 3-hour early dismissal ***Calendar Change***
• June 26 - Make-up final exams
• July 17 - Make-up final exams
• August 5 - Make-up final exams
  
• August 13 - Fall HS sports practices begin
• August 25 - School begins for students

AP testing will be held at Centennial High School this year from May 5, thru May 16.

A note from a parent/guardian is required if your student is leaving after the test or arriving late to school on their testing day.

Send notes to: chsabsence@hcpss.org

Don’t forget to buy your yearbook!! There are only 37 yearbooks available for purchase. First come first serve.

Go to: https://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A03346180

Effective May 1, Todd Kriner retired from his position as school counselor at CHS.

Mr. Kriner writes:

I am so grateful and appreciative to have worked with such an amazing and extraordinary faculty and student population. Your determination for success, and your support for one another is unwavering and unparalleled. I will truly miss all of you.

Mr. Kriner’s caseload has been reassigned as follows:

• Students, last names D and E: Tracey Jones
• Students, last names F and G: Irene Khaksari
• Students, last names H: Chris Sanders
• Student last names I and J: JaeHi Hebler

If you are planning to move during the summer, please try to submit all requests for records prior to June 1. Due to building repairs in our building this summer, our registrars will have limited access to files.

Attention all 9th - 12th graders interested in becoming a teacher:

Check out the FREE Towson University Summer Scholars Institute!

Info here: http://bit.ly/4cQKl09

CHS sophomore, Lucas Russell is spearheading a local initiative with Honorfold and Scouting America to retire and honor American flags.

Between April 28th, and the end of the school year, Honorfold and Scouting America, will be collecting American flags that are ready for retirement.

What kind of flags can be retired?

We are accepting flags that are worn, torn, faded, discolored, or otherwise unfit for proper display.

What size flags can be retired?

We will accept all flag sizes, from small home flags (2x3ft, 3x5ft) to larger flags used by some schools, businesses, and government buildings (5x8ft, 6x10ft, and beyond) If you are unsure bring it in and we'll make sure its retired with respect.

Where do I drop them off?

There will be a collection box near the front doors, designed to look like an American flag. Simply place any flags in need of retirement into the box.

Don’t have a flag?

If you don’t have a flag yourself but know someone who does, feel free to ask them and bring it in on their behalf. Every flag deserves a respectful retirement.

Why does this matter?

Retiring a flag with dignity is a time honored tradition that shows respect for our country and those we serve and served to protect it. By donating your old worn flags, it helps ensure that every flag is honored the proper way.

All flags must be turned in by the last day of school. All collected flags will be properly and respectfully retired in accordance with U.S. Flag Code and scouting traditions.

Thank you for helping us honor our nation’s flag.

The 23rd Annual Spring Dance Concert will be held on Thursday, May 1st, and Friday, May 2nd, at 7pm in the CHS Auditorium.

Discounted tickets are available now through Wednesday, April 30th:

$8 for general admission (ages 5+)

$15 for 2 shows—Thursday, 5/1 and Friday, 5/2 (ages 5+)

$4 for senior citizens

Use the following link: https://osp.osmsinc.com/p/DA041-1651

Tickets will be sold at the door for $10 (general admission ages 5+) and $5 for senior citizens. Cash, credit, and check made out to CHS will be accepted.

Please join us on Friday, May 9th, at 6 PM in the Centennial High School gymnasium to induct the Centennial High School Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

The individuals being inducted are Harrison Chaires '09, Kare Fisher '95, Lauren Marcotte '20, Jasmine McCree '17, and Briana Zolak '98.

We hope you will be able to join us for this special event!"

The Class of 2028 is hosting a Paint night Fundraiser on Wednesday May 21st, in the CHS cafeteria. $35 per person and light refreshments will be available for purchase (cash only).

No skill or experience necessary. Enjoy a night out with your friends learning to paint. The professionals from CRE8 will be here to help you!

Secure your spot through OSP today! https://osp.osmsinc.com/p/DA041-1845

Make your summer plans! Sign up your children for 2025 Booster Summer Camps now!

View list of camps with dates and times here.

Register at https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/summer-camps

Our collection of Lost and Found items is overflowing!

Please take a minute to check the Lost and Found in the cafeteria for winter coats, sweatshirts, hats and gloves, backpacks, water bottles, lunch boxes, and more! All unclaimed items will be donated at the end of the school year.

We will be hosting make-up final exams on the following days this summer:

• June 26
• July 17
• August 5.
  

If students cannot make any of these scheduled sessions, they may call the school to make other arrangements.

Important reminder: due to building maintenance, we will be located at Burleigh Manor Middle School this summer.

Spring Testing is quickly approaching. Please help your students by ensuring that they get a good night's sleep and come to school on time with a charged device. Seniors who need to test will test early so that they can meet requirements for graduation. Technical preparation will be completed in content classes the week prior to each assessment window. Please review the testing dates below. Contact Ms Somerville: jeri_somerville@hcpss.org if you have questions.

Assessment Schedule:

• May 5 - Alg II Makeup
• May 12-15 - Government / Alg I MCAP
• May 19- May 20 - MISA
• May 21 - Gov/Alg/MISA Makeup

Booster Bash: Sip, Savor, and Support Centennial Students!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of fun, delicious pizza, and incredible auction and graduation seating raffle — all while supporting Centennial students!

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

Location: Cushwa Brewing Co. 6695 Dobbin Rd STE G, Columbia, MD 21045

Proceeds Benefit: CHS Students

• Delicious Eats
• Awesome Silent Auction & Reserved Graduation Seating Raffle
• Fun Vibes & Community Spirit

Bring your friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and make a difference!

Buy Tickets Now: https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/about-3

Save the date for Booster’s Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, September 26, at Fairway Hills!

Booster Bash Family and Corporate sponsorships available!

Click here to purchase: https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/about-3

Family Sponsorships include:

• 2 Event Tickets
• 2 50/50 Raffle Tickets
• Recognition on all event marketing

Corporate Sponsorships include:

• Company Logo on all event marketing
• 2 Event Tickets

Winter is still with us and we are all out of tissues at school.

We are grateful for the donations you have sent already, and hoping that you can send a few more boxes to the front office again!

We are gearing up for commencement for the Class of 2025 and need year help! If you have a cap and gown (red with blue and white stripe on arms) gathering dust, please donate it to the school. We like to have a few “extras” on had in case of emergency during graduation week.

Donations may be dropped off in the front office at Centennial at any time. Thank you!

CHS Nominating Committee

The CHS PTSA is looking for 3 PTSA members to serve on the nominating committee until the General Membership Meeting in June.

The members of the nominating committee for officers of this local PTSA shall be elected by the board of directors at a March CHS PTSA board meeting. The members do not have to be present to be elected but have to agree to serve in this role.

Nominating Committee:

• There shall be a nominating committee composed of 3 members who shall be elected by the Board of Directors. The committee shall elect its own chair.
• The nominating committee shall be elected at least two (2) months prior to the election of officers.
• The nominating committee shall nominate an eligible person for each office to be filled and report its nominees to the general membership at least ten (10) days prior to the general membership meeting in June, at which time additional nominations may be made from the floor.
• Only those individuals who are current members of this local PTSA and who have signified their consent to serve if elected shall be nominated for, or elected to, such office.

The CHS Food Pantry is a great resource for our school community. We have exhausted many of the items and hope that you will continue your generous support to restock the shelves.

At this time, we need personal hygiene items, especially deodorant, shampoo, and toothpaste. We also need cereal, granola bars, rice, pasta, and soup.

Items may be dropped off in Student Services with Ms. DeVore.

Thank you for your support!

As we head into the winter months, families are reminded that in emergency situations (including inclement weather), information will be shared with the community only through the HCPSS website, email and text, Twitter/X and the HCPSS weather hotline. Be sure your Family File is up to date and that you have opted into texts to receive emergency messages.

The HCPSS Career Readiness Advisors (CRAs) are excited for the 2024-2025 school year, and we would love your help!

Last year, CRAs implemented a Monthly Career Cluster Spotlight series across the county. The Monthly Spotlights allowed students to explore a wide scope of careers while connecting those careers to both the HCPSS curriculum and student strengths and interests.

Each month, we spotlight a different career industry/cluster. We provide students with information about career cluster pathways, curricular connections to that pathway, and opportunities for students to engage with professionals in those clusters.

Here is where you come in: we are looking for community members to share your experience, advice, and insight in your professional line of work.

Please fill out the following form if you are interested in donating a bit of your time and wisdom to HCPSS students.

Thank you!

Calling All Seniors & Families!

We’re putting together a Senior Baby Photo Slideshow to celebrate the Class of 2025, and we need your help!

📸 Please submit:

• One baby photo

• One current photo of your senior
  ✨ Both images should be titled with the senior’s full name.

📅 Deadline to submit: May 5, 2025

📧 Submit your photos to: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pCrMxkV4WaIZy07AZBK31OLgpYLsEKBP?usp=share_link

We know there is a lot of excitement that comes with the end of high school and we hope the information below helps you in your planning. Please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Carr @ kathryn_carr@hcpss.org with any questions. A Graduation FRQ document has been created to assist with finding the most up-to-date information regarding graduation. This document can be found via Canvas Student Announcements.

Completion of all final exams and full attendance at school from May 13, 2025, to May 20, 2025, is MANDATORY. Seniors must attend both graduation practices and events. Any issues/concerns with attending the graduation practices- please contact Mrs. Carr.

Events for Seniors

• Tuesday, May 13 – All classes will meet; Exam in Period 1
• Wednesday, May 14 – All classes will meet; Exams in Periods 2, 3, 4A
• Thursday, May 15 – Exams in Periods 4B, 5, 6; Rehearsal #1, Auditorium, periods 2-3; Caps and Gowns Distributed
• Friday, May 16 – Senior Breakfast 7:50 – 9:50 AM; Rehearsal #2, Auditorium, 10:00 – 11:20 AM; Tickets Distributed
• Monday, May 19 – Senior Farewell Assembly, Lineup starts at 8:30 AM; Cap and Gown Required
• Tuesday, May 20 – Make-up exams – schedule on your own with teachers
• Wednesday, May 28 – 3:00 PM Graduation Ceremony at Merriweather Post Pavilion; Cap and Gown Required; Seniors line up for graduation on half-hour early (2:30 PM)

* If your child is receiving an award at the Senior Farewell Assembly, you will receive a phone call/email.

If a student experiences an emergency illness on the day of a scheduled graduation practice or required senior activity, the student should email Mrs. Carr at kathryn_carr@hcpss.org.

Any senior who wishes to come in late or leave early, must turn in a signed note to chsabsence@hcpss.org.

We are providing you with a schedule of mandatory practices, exams, and activities in advance so that your student can prearrange work schedules and avoid potential conflicts.

• Graduation Information

Our commencement ceremony will take place at Merriweather Post Pavilion on Wednesday, May 28, at 3 PM.

Tickets

• All seniors are provided ten (10) tickets to the graduation ceremony.

• Up to 5 additional tickets can be requested using the form: https://forms.gle/4FrkaX5Qpc9Q5JTR7

• Students should complete this form, not parents, as HCPSS emails are required.

• These requests will be honored on a first come, first served basis.

• If more are needed, seniors should ask peers for any tickets they do not need.

• Tickets are distributed at the second graduation rehearsal.

• Tickets will not be distributed to students with outstanding obligations.

Expectations

• Participation in the graduation ceremony is not mandatory. Seniors not intending to participate in the graduation ceremony must have a parent/guardian submit written notification to Dr. Miller and Mrs. Carr.

• Attendance at school is mandatory through May 20, 2025. If you plan to leave early or come late any day, you must have a note from parent/guardian submitted to chsabsence@hcpss.org.

• Graduation deserves the highest priority. All graduation rehearsals are mandatory.

Graduation Attire

• Caps and Gowns are required for the commencement ceremony.

• Students may only wear graduation stoles or cords that are distributed through an HCPSS or Centennial high school club or organization.

• Seniors are asked not to wear sneakers, tennis shoes, flip-flops, boat shoes, or other similar types of casual footwear. Students will want to consider low-heeled shoes due to the distance they process and the steep stairs they navigate.

Video and Photographs

• Commencement ceremonies are public events and may be photographed or videotaped. Lifetouch is the official event photographer.

• 2025 ceremonies will be livestreamed online and archived on the HCPSS youtube.com channel.

Other Information

• Physical diplomas are not awarded on stage.

• Diplomas/certificates and final report cards will be distributed immediately following the ceremony.

• Students who do not pick up these items will have the opportunity to collect them from school during normal school hours.

• Preferred name at graduation. The name attached to you on Synergy will be read at graduation. Should you wish to have an alternate name (nicknames, for example), a parent/guardian should email Mrs. Carr, kathryn_carr@hcpss.org with the request by May 9th. A confirmation will be sent within 24 hours.

• Parking will be managed by Merriweather Post Pavilion. Parking information will be posted on the HCPSS website closer to the date of the event. If transporting a disabled guest, please arrive early to ensure they are seated prior to the ceremony.

Click here to see this information in calendar format

Graduate To-Do List

• Naviance Exit Survey – Complete April 30th, in Senior Meeting

• Return Chromebook – as soon as no longer needed

• Complete Additional Ticket Request form (if needed) – May 9

• Have parent email preferred name at graduation (if needed) – May 9

• Clear all obligations - ASAP; tickets will not be given until cleared

• Arrange schedules to attend all events

• Plan attire for events.

CHS Seniors! The application period is now open for the 2025 Senior Scholarship program, sponsored by CHS PTSA. If you have been accepted at a 2 or 4 year college/art school, trade/military or technical school, you are eligible to apply.

Four $500 scholarships will be awarded, based on responses to two essay questions. Please see the attached for instructions and submit your application by May 2.

Awards will be presented on May 19 at the Senior Awards Ceremony.

The HCPSS Hispanic Achievement Program is selling sarapes (stoles) for purchase by Hispanic and Latino graduating seniors. Sales will run through May 2, 2025. Purchases can be made directly here, or read more information and scan the QR Code here.

The Hispanic “sarape” represents the ancient customs of colorful textiles throughout all the ancient indigenous people of Latin America. These bright colors represented their devout spiritualism and the advanced knowledge they possessed. Additional history of the sarapes and the initiative in HCPSS for graduating seniors can be found here in English and Spanish.

Direct questions to Gaston Gamez, Hispanic Achievement Supervisor at (410) 313-6667.

Seniors,

If you are attending a two-year or four-year Maryland college or university as a full-time or part-time student, you are eligible to apply for a State Delegate or Senatorial Scholarship.

State Delegate Scholarship:

https://mhec.maryland.gov/preparing/pages/financialaid/programdescriptions/prog_delegate.aspx

Senatorial Scholarship: https://mhec.maryland.gov/preparing/Pages/FinancialAid/ProgramDescriptions/prog_senatorial.aspx

ENTER YOUR ADDRESS to find out the name of your State Senator and State Delegate (they will appear at the bottom of the list): https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Members/District

Please come to Student Services to see Ms. DeVore if you need any assistance. Continue to check for Scholarships in Naviance and on the Bulletin Board outside Student Services.

Now is the time to get in your applications for scholarships to obtain additional funding for college. In Naviance, under Scholarships, you can search for all available scholarships by date or name.

A scholarship document is also updated every month that features the current scholarships and due dates in Naviance, here's the link:

24-25 Scholarship document

Upcoming scholarships and deadlines are also POSTED on the bulletin board outside Student Services. Please check this bulletin board regularly.

The Community Foundation of Howard County has many scholarships available, but the due dates are not published yet. ALL the available scholarships are posted on the board.

Many are targeted to specific interest areas such as:

• Students whose life has been impacted by cancer (either themselves or a family member)

• Service on the Special Olympics Howard County Swim Team and Special Olympics Howard County

• Pursuing a degree in Fine Arts, Nursing, STEM, pre-law, agriculture or field related to farming

• Community and athletic involvement

• Students who participated on a SAC/HC travel or recreational team

  
  

Any questions? Please stop in Student Services for assistance.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter with the financial support of the Alpha Foundation of Howard County, Inc., offers financial assistance to graduation high school seniors in Howard County, pursuing higher education.

Scholarships to be awarded for the 2024-25 school year:

• Marian and Brother Cecil G. Christian Memorial Scholarship: $4,000
• Bro. Freeman Louis Sands, Sr. Memorial Scholarship: $2,000
• Outstanding Scholarship Awards: Four awards of $1,500 each

Details regarding eligibility and applications may be found at www.apakpl.org and www.alphafoundationhc.org.

In addition to graduation caps and gowns, Jostens also offers a range for products including graduation announcements, class rings, jewelry, and more. Check out the Mascot Shop for great keepsakes.

All families must update their emergency contact information annually. We’d like Centennial to be the first high school to have 100% of the Family File information to be fully updated, so visit HCPSS Connect today and click submit on the final screen! Read more.

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.

Eagle's Soar tutoring will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays immediately after school in the Media Center from 2:35-3:05 PM for the entire school year. All content areas will be represented with teaching faculty, and honor society students will be supporting as well in many of the content areas. Please make arrangements for your child to attend, as this is a great resource to help them be successful this year. This is a GREAT place to get extra math help if your child is struggling. Unfortunately, transportation is not provided at this time.

EXTRA HELP:

• Eagle's Soar Tutoring – Every Tuesday and Thursday 2:35-3:05 PM in the Media Center (Starts September 17th)
• Math Tutoring – Monday through Thursday after school 2:35-3:05 PM in Room 508 (starts September 19th)
• Eagle Time – Every Wednesday 9:25-9:55 PM (they sign up on the CHS website with the teacher they need help with)

Parking passes have now been issued to Seniors and Juniors. It is important for all students parking on campus to make sure that their parking permit hang tags are visible. Also, please remember that students park in the white-lined spaces.

Still need a permit? Permit applications are on the CHS website.

Led by the Maryland Center for School Safety (MDCSS) within the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Safe Schools Maryland is an anonymous tip reporting system that allows students, parents, and community members to easily report anonymous safety concerns anywhere in Maryland. Tips received are routed to local and state education, public safety, heath, and/or social services support personnel for follow-up.

Android

Maryland Safe Schools

Apple

Maryland Safe Schools

After school pizza sales begin next week! Students staying after school can purchase a slice of cheese pizza ($3 per slice, cash only) before heading to their club meeting, extra-curricular program, study session, or athletic practice/game.

Sales will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and will be fundraisers for the Dance Program, Alpha Achievers, and Science Olympiad. Buy your slice by the gym. All sales are first come, first served.

You and your family can join CHS PTSA anytime! Join now or add your child to your membership.

Help us meet our membership goals before the end of the year. A PTSA membership can make a thoughtful gift for a family member or anyone in the Centennial community.

Visit our online store to become a member now

Support our CHS Eagles by becoming a member of the CHS Boosters Club. Our parent-run volunteer organization raises funds through membership donations and fundraising activities to support CHS student extra-curricular activities. From school sports teams to more than 80 clubs and organizations, including our award winning "It's Academic" team and the CHS "Magic Club" – the Boosters supports them all!

The Howard County Public School System does not provide money for team uniforms, equipment and other fees needed to run student programs. To help parents avoid membership and other costs, the CHS Boosters shares its fundraising efforts across all sports and activities to help our students enjoy a healthy, rewarding high school experience.

Membership is the Booster’s biggest annual fundraiser, and we need your help to support our students. If you have not already done so, please join today! The CHS Boosters is a 501(c)(3) organization so all donations are tax deductible to the extent of the law. Tax ID # 52-1437160

1. Regular Season Tickets are $5.00 and are only available on the App at GoFan.co.
2. Backpacks are PROHIBITED inside the Stadium.
3. Spectators are to adhere to ALL HCPSS Policies & CHS Procedures in the Student Code of Conduct.
4. No outside food permitted in the Stadium.
5. ALL Students in Grades K thru 8 MUST EACH be accompanied into the Stadium, seated throughout the entire event, being supervised by their parent or guardian.
6. No admittance after the 3rd quarter.
7. Once you leave the Stadium, you may not return.
8. Noise makers are prohibited inside the Stadium.
9. Cheer loudly for your team, not against the opponent, their fans, their band, their cheerleaders or the officials.
10. Students arrange for a ride during the 3rd quarter and notify your ride to pick them up immediately after the game.

The HCPSS Partnerships 2023-2024 Annual Snapshot has just been released. The snapshot includes a link to school system partners including each school’s partners, as well as system wide, curricular, and program office partnerships. The snapshot highlights how partners play a vital role in encouraging students to reach their full potential.

Please remember that all families are required by Policy 9000 to notify HCPSS if they move to a new home address. Current residency documentation must be updated each time residency changes.

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

Each month, the Career Readiness Advisors spotlight a career industry/cluster. We provide students with information about career cluster pathways, curricular connections to that pathway, and opportunities for students to learn from industry professionals in those clusters.

We are ALWAYS looking for speakers to participate in our monthly virtual panel discussions, and/or to engage with our students as an in-person speaker.

Please click on the following link to share your information:

HCPSS Career Related Speaker Interest Form

Both in-person and live, virtual, eight-hour college prep classes are being offered in partnership with Atholton, Centennial, Hammond, Howard, Marriotts Ridge, Mt. Hebron, Reservoir, and Wilde Lake high schools and are open to students from all high schools.

CHS students can register for ANY Answer Class at ANY location or online – and a percentage of tuition will be donated to CHS PTSA! School year classes are being regularly added – check here often!

CHS PTSA teams with HC DrugFree to help spread the word about keeping drugs out of Howard County classrooms and communities.

HC DrugFree has many opportunities for students and families:

Teen Advisory Council

Open to Howard County students in grades 8-12. Earn Community Service Hours and make meaningful contributions to the community.

Next meeting: Monday May 19, 2025, from 5:30-7:00 PM on Zoom. Earn Community Service Hours! Register to receive the meeting link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TAC-5-19-25 For more information: https://hcdrugfree.org/teen-advisory-council/

We Need Your Support!!!

“It isn’t the size of the gift that matters, but the size of the heart that gives.”

Your support allows us to continue to provide our resources and programs to the community. To make your tax-deductible donation, donate online at hcdrugfree.org/donate or mail a check to:

HC DrugFree

5305 Village Center Drive

Suite 206

Columbia, MD 21044

Resources

DEA's Drugs of Abuse Resource Guide:

Education plays a critical role in preventing substance use and misuse. The 2024 DEA Resource Guide is designed to be a reliable resource on the most commonly used and misused drugs in the US and provides important information about the harms and consequences of drug use by describing a drug’s effects on the body and mind, overdose potential, origin, legal status, and other key facts. Learn more

Additional Resources

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Marylanders who are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis should call or text 988. Learn more at 988.maryland.gov. Maryland veterans and their loved ones can call 988 and press 1 to transfer to the Veterans Crisis Line. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for LGBTQIA+ support.

Additional Resources

For more information, contact:

HC DrugFree

5305 Village Center Drive, Suite 206

Wilde Lake Village Center

Columbia, MD 21044

Admin@hcdrugfree.org

www.hcdrugfree.org

• Centennial High School’s website is a great source of information at https://chs.hcpss.org.
• On Twitter @hcpss_CHS and Instagram @CentennialHS.
• 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.