Weekly Newsletter

January 11, 2026

Dear Coyote Community,

Happy Sunday! I’m not sure about where you were, but today seemed to bring just about every type of weather imaginable. What began as a beautiful, sunny afternoon quickly shifted to sleet, high winds, and even a few snow flurries. It’s a good reminder to keep an eye on the forecast this week, as some predictions do indicate the possibility of snow toward the end of the week.

While it was great to see students excited to return from Winter Break, I also noticed that some are still easing back into the routines and expectations of classes and assignments. I cannot stress enough how important it is for students to remain focused during these final days of the semester. Grading is calculated differently this year, and students should not assume that strong first-quarter performance automatically guarantees a passing semester grade. Ultimately, semester grades are based on percentages, and every assignment and assessment matters. As the first semester quickly comes to a close, my goal is for every student to finish as strong as possible.

I encourage families and students to take a few minutes to review this week’s updates and student opportunities below. Several opportunities include application deadlines, so please be sure to act promptly if interested.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the CHS community. Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership in making our school such a special place.

Warmly,

Ms. O'Neill

January 14 -- Testing Day (am) Classes start 12:30 (Periods 1-4)

January 15 -- MCDOT visit at lunch

January 19 -- No School for staff and students

January 20 -- PTSA Meeting (7:00 Media Center)

January 23 -- End of Semester 1

January 26 -- No School for Students (Grading and Reporting Day for Staff)

MCDOT will be in the main commons at lunch on January 15 to provide information about the SmarTrip program.

Please find the January issue of the Media Center newsletter here.

In this issue:

• MLK Week of Service: Earn SSL Hour in the Media Center January 20 During Lunch
• Celebrate National Puzzle Month: The Great Cover-Up January Jigsaw Challenge & Puzzles Out All Month in the Library
• January Resource Collections: Martin Luther King, Jr., International Creativity Month, National Hobby Month: Reading is a Hobby Too!
• Spotlight on Digital Citizenship: Tech Planners

The Clarksburg High School PTSA General Body Meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the CHS Media Center is our first PTSA meeting of the year, and we need every member there. This is the moment to come together, share ideas, and help shape the activities and events we want to pursue in 2026—events that connect parents, teachers, and students in meaningful ways. As we move deeper into the school year, your voice is critical to helping us do better and make a greater impact. If you’re a PTSA member, please be there. If you’re not yet a member, now is the perfect time to join. You can join PTSA using the link below or join onsite during the meeting. Bring a friend, encourage other caregivers to attend, and be part of the change. Your voice matters. Your participation matters. This is your school and your child’s future. PTSA Membership Link: https://chs-ptsa.givebacks.com/shop

Congratulations to our Symphonic Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Concert Orchestra, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble on a wonderful winter concert on January 6. The audience clearly enjoyed the performances. The hard work of Mr. Orifici and his students was evident. Well done!