January 5
CMITN562 / January 5, 2026
CMIT North High School CHRONICLE
Celebrating Mastery, Inspiration, and Teamwork
COMMON GOOD
ISSUE #17
As we step into 2026, we welcome a fresh start and a renewed commitment to keeping our students at the heart of everything we do. Amid the challenges and complexities that arise in schools in 2025, it’s essential we look beyond distractions and focus on the common good—creating a supportive environment where every student can truly thrive. Our newsletter celebrates the resilience, growth, and collaboration within our school community. Thank you for being part of this collective journey as we work together to make this year our best yet. Let’s dive into the inspiring updates and accomplishments shaping our school today!
📌 CMIT North HS Newsletter is published every Sunday
(or Monday if the Monday follows a holiday weekend).
SY25-26: CMIT North HS Newsletter Publication dates & Links
SY25-26- Administrator/Program leads and Coaches
SY25-26 (Quick Access) CMIT North HS Family Info Hub
Gemma Clarke, Ph.D. - Program Coordinator STEM
CAPTURING MOMENTS
Winter Glow Returns: Honoring Teachers
On December 17, during the Staff Meeting, Winter Glow proudly returned for its second remarkable year, uniting our school community to honor and celebrate the unwavering dedication of our exceptional teachers through the presentation of heartfelt plaques of appreciation. The evening was distinguished by exquisite cuisine, warm camaraderie, and the thrilling reveal of the Secret Tigers, adding an element of delightful surprise for all attendees. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Chesapeake Foundation for their generous gifts, which elevated the occasion’s significance. We are deeply thankful to esteemed community members, including Mr. Luis Guevara, a highly engaged parent and volunteer; Ms. Jhanna Levin, Environmental Literacy Outreach Teacher at the William S. Schmidt Center; Ms. Denise Rosales, our committed PTSO President; Attorney Mohammad Bashir, devoted community advocate; and CLF Director of Academics Gonul Ozturk, whose support was instrumental in the event’s success. Additionally, we warmly acknowledge J&J Detailing Agency for their generous sponsorship of raffle prizes featuring car cleaning vouchers, which brought added excitement and joy to the celebration. Their invaluable support continues to help our school community shine brightly and remain closely connected.
Strikes and Smiles: MS & HS Holiday Bowling Bash
On Thursday, December 19, the Middle School and High School staff gathered for a festive holiday outing at the College Park bowling alley. Sponsored by our wonderful Principals, Mr. Brauer and Dr. Gaskins, the event was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of holiday cheer. It was a fantastic opportunity for our dedicated educators to relax, connect, and celebrate the season together outside of the classroom. This joyful celebration of teamwork and community spirit truly highlighted the warmth and camaraderie that make our school so special.
The Hamilton Movie Night, hosted by Rho Kappa, was a huge success!
We had roughly 25 students in attendance, along with Ms. Colandrea, who stopped by for the first half of the movie on December 18.. Students voted to watch the original version rather than the sing-along, but that didn’t stop anyone from belting out their favorite songs along the way!
Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make the night such a fun and memorable event. Remember… history has its eyes on you!
Stay tuned for our next movie night in the new year!
Rho Kappa: On Tuesdays, We Vote!
This week’s On Tuesdays, We Vote! results are in—126 students cast their votes, and 71% said their favorite thing about winter is winter break
As we wrap up the year, here are a few highlights from On Tuesdays, We Vote!:
Students weighed in on school life, holidays, current events, and fun seasonal topics
Participation stayed strong all year, with hundreds of student voices represented
Results often showed clear favorites, but also sparked great conversations and friendly debate
Most importantly, students consistently showed they’re engaged, opinionated, and paying attention
Thanks to everyone who voted throughout the year. That’s a wrap for On Tuesdays, We Vote!—we’ll see you in the New Year with more questions and more votes!
Caribbean Students Association - Jamaican Food drive
The Caribbean Students Association recently hosted a successful food sale event, generously supported by our community partners. Proceeds from the sale were used to send much-needed relief to communities in Jamaica affected by recent challenges. We’re grateful for everyone who contributed and helped us make a meaningful impact.
Team Illusion World Over the Break
Between December 20, 2025, and January 3, 2026, Team Illusion brought focused energy and dedication to the Robotics Lab, working hard over multiple Saturdays to advance their projects. The team made significant progress building, testing mechanisms, refining programming, and improving the reliability of their VEX robot. Simultaneously, they supervised over 15 hours of 3D printing for essential components needed in the Science Olympiad Building Events and Electric Vehicle competitions. By carefully managing print times alongside robot work, they maximized productivity throughout each session.
With access to the lab and equipment, Team Iluusion demonstrated strong commitment and teamwork, positioning themselves to meet important competition deadlines and fully assemble the EV by January 17.
Forensic Mock Trial
During the Saturdays of the winter break—from December 20, 2025, to January 3, 2026—the Forensic Mock Trial team gathered for intensive in-person practice sessions, while Zoom meetings throughout the week kept their momentum going. They sharpened their courtroom skills by refining arguments, cross-examinations, and opening and closing statements with precision and confidence. The virtual meetings helped the team stay connected and prepared between their hands-on sessions.
We sincerely thank Atty. Muhammed Bashir, our dedicated head coach, whose expert guidance has been crucial in shaping the team’s success. With his support and access to school resources, the team is well-prepared to deliver strong performances in upcoming competitions.
Gingerbread House
During lunch on Friday, December 12th, students showcased their engineering and creative art skills by building their own cardboard gingerbread houses using materials provided. This fun, free activity welcomed all students to participate, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving.
The most impressive gingerbread house creators were rewarded with food prizes and Kickboard points, adding excitement to the friendly competition.
A special thank you to Ms. Ryan Tarver for organizing and supporting this festive challenge, helping bring out the students’ creativity and holiday spirit.
CMIT Holiday Fun & Spirit! - A week of Fun and surprises
Holiday Spirit Week took place from Monday, December 15 to Friday, December 19, bringing festive fun and creativity to our school. Students and staff embraced daily themes like cozy pajamas, candy cane colors, Grinch Day, winter wonderland whites, and festive ugly sweaters. The week was full of holiday cheer and great school spirit!
Holiday Doors
During the Holiday Doors event, our teachers and students teamed up with incredible creativity and joyful spirit. Together, they transformed each door into a festive masterpiece filled with holiday cheer. Their collaboration brought warmth and celebration to the entire school community.
The Jazz Band and String Clubs continue to Serenade
On Friday, December 16, the Jazz Band and String Clubs continued their tradition of serenading the school community during lunch with beautiful live performances. Their talented musicians filled the space with vibrant melodies, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that brought students and staff together.
A special thanks to Mr. Carter, their dedicated coach, whose guidance and support have been instrumental in nurturing the musicians’ skills and passion for music. His leadership helps make these lunchtime concerts a highlight for everyone.
AP Academic Fair
On December 16th, many of our students and families joined us for the AP Academic Fair, where our Departments presented about the AP Courses they expect to be available in SY 2026-2027. If you were not able to attend, we encourage you to review the slide presentations for each department.
Class of 2026 College Application Updates!
Our Seniors have been working hard on their college applications! Here are some big wins!
Applications
Over 1000 applications submitted in total
92% of seniors have applied to at least 1 college
81% of seniors have applied to 3 or more colleges, with the average being 7.5 colleges per student who applied
58% of our seniors who have applied to college have been accepted to at least 1 college as of December 17th
Financial Aid
One senior got into MIT on a FULL RIDE Scholarship!
Cumulatively, seniors have already been awarded $2.45 million in 4-year financial aid awards, with the average scholarship being $16,000 per year
82% of Seniors completed the FAFSA as of 12/17 with 4 more seniors having just submitted and just waiting on their FAFSA to process
Great job, seniors!
Dr. Natalie Gaudette, NCC
Professional School Counselor (Caseload: College Counseling)
KEEPING AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS THRIVING
If your student stays after school, we warmly invite you to contribute the $50 activity donation using the procedure linked below. Your generosity directly supports our after-school programs and truly goes a long way in keeping these opportunities thriving for our students.
IMPORTANT UPDATES & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Service Learning Opportunity: Congressional Simulation Day
In partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools, the Close Up Foundation is hosting a Congressional Simulation Day. This engaging experience will be held at the University of Maryland campus and gives students the chance to connect with peers across the county while exploring real-world legislative processes.
During the simulation, students will:
Take on the role of a member of the House of Representatives
Deliberate real legislation, review and amend bills
Present arguments in favor or opposition to bills
Vote ‘Yea’ or ‘Nay’ as each bill moves toward becoming law
Event Details:
Date: Friday, January 10, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Registration: 8:00 – 8:50 AM)
Location: University of Maryland, Tawes Hall, 7751 Alumni Dr, College Park, MD 20742
How to Participate:
Interested students must complete program registration to attend.
For questions, please contact: PGcounty@closeup.org
Don’t miss this opportunity to step into the shoes of a lawmaker and experience the excitement of Congress firsthand!
Testing
Spring Accuplacer will take place in February. Please be on the lookout for an email from Dr. Gaudette about qualifications.
Grades
Quarter 2 Report Card grades are due on January 26, 2025.
PTSO UPDATES
Starting in January, our meetings will move to the THIRD WEDNESDAY of each month--so our next meeting will be on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026, at 6 pm.
A Zoom meeting link will be sent out upon our return to school.
WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR STUDENTS, STAFF, AND SCHOOL.
It means a great deal to us all!
We hope your holidays were filled with peace, joy, love, and laughter
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Zelle: CmitNorthPTSO@gmail.com
Venmo: CMITNorthHSPTSO
PayPal: CmitNorthPTSO@gmail.com
Proceeds will go towards this past Staff Thanksgiving Dinner, National Cookie Day for Staff and Students, and PTSO/Staff Winter Glow 2025 where PTSO will be sponsoring all gifts for the Staff.
Thank you to our CMIT North Families for your generosity in sharing your time and energy with our school community. The programs and events you support would not be possible without your invaluable contributions.
Denise Rosales
PTSO President
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
E-mail: president_nhspto@cmitacademy.org
SCHOLARSHIPS
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WEEKLY THOUGHT
At the heart of the common good is putting students first.
Dr. Clarke
CHESAPEAKE LIGHTHOUSE FOUNDATION
Click HERE to view the full update.
