CHS News

Opening night for Centennial's Skyward Theatre's preformance of Ken Ludwig's Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood was SPECTACULAR!!!

Join us for the remaining shows:

• Friday, November 14 at 7 PM
• Saturday, November 15 at 2 PM and 7 Pm
• Sunday, November 16 at 2 PM

(Photos courtesy of John Kuta)

Both on the stage and off the stage, students in every area of the production - actors; stage manages; set crew; costume crew; props, lighting and sound crews - made a very cohesive, fun-filled, action packed show. The special effects were amazing!

And now for the bonus round...Can you match the actor to the role?

The characters: Robin Hood, Maid Marian, Friar Tuck, Little John, Deorwynn, Sir Guy of Gisbourne, The Sheriff of Nottingham, Prince John, King Richard

The Actors: Dhruv Veda, Katie Genovese, Cal Stewart, Elliott Blackburn, Evie Elliott, Maya Finkelstein, Dominic McDonald, Lensa Diriba, Owen Landle

Answers: Available at the Show...see you there!

A GIANT Eagles CONGRATULATIONS to our Cross Country Teams for their OUTSTANDING performance at the State Championships on Saturday at Hereford High School.

The Boys team is state champions for the 3rd year in a row! Shouting out our individual finishers for the boys team:

• Jason Oberly 9th
• Harper Koenig 12th
• Ian Doll 15th
• Jack Arrington 19th

The girls team finished as Runner Up! Shouting out our individual finishers for the girls team:

• Kaylee Beal 6th
• Gabriela Nguyen 21

Way to go runners, we're so proud of you all!

A special thank you to Mr. Tim Koenig for the fantastic photos!

The Varsity Boys Soccer Team is headed to the State Championships on Saturday, November 15th after their win again Tuscarora High School on Friday night! They will be competing against Stephen Decatur High School at 2:30pm at UMBC.

Get your tickets online--Admission is $10. Ages 6 and under are free. Visit the GoFan.co website to purchase. There will be no on-site ticket sales. Per MPSSAA rules: no noisemakers/horns/confetti bombers or anything else which will limit the enjoyment of fans!

On Saturday November 8, Centennial’s It's Academic sent four teams of four students each to the Georgetown Tournament taking place at Johns Hopkins University. There were 24 teams including Richard Montgomery, Montgomery Blair A and B, Churchill, Langley, Poolesville, BASIS McLean, St. Anselms, Gunston, Howard, Atholton, Glenelg Country, Trinity Meadow, and Banneker among others. We needed to finish in the top four teams to qualify for the National Championship in Atlanta (HSNCT).

After 11 or 12 games over 11 hours, in a miraculous finish, we finished in SECOND place and FOURTH place, qualifying two teams for Nationals!

• Centennial A with Matthew Yang (captain 11th), Sahil Prasad (10th), Shravan Yoagentharan (11th), Satvik Jain (10th) went 10-1 for second place.
• Centennial B, the all-freshman team with Swara Rawat (captain, 9th), Joshua Jon (9th), Ray Gao (9th), Aakanksh Govada (9th) went 8-4 for 4th place winning a tie-breaking 12th game against Langley.

  
  

It is truly remarkable to qualify for Nationals so early and together.

Sunday November 9, these same students, along with 35 more from the club, spent eight hours hosting and moderating a tournament for 54 teams at the middle and elementary school level:

• Burleigh Manor A placed 3rd
• Both Burleigh A an B qualified for the Middle School Nationals in Chicago
• Centennial Lane Elementary School as the top elementary school in the tournament
• Centennial C with Rohan Sengupta (captain, 10th), Joe Li (11th), Rosa Kurish (10th), Leinani David (11th) went 6-5.
• Centennial D with Ana Lagos (captain, 11th), Arwin Aadjot (9th), and Eshan Prasanna (9th) went 4-7.
• Congratulations to high scorers Matthew Yang, Swara Rawat, Rohan Sengupta, Sahil Prasad. Joshua Jon, and Satvik Jain.
  

Our thanks to the coaches: Eric and Sara Seifter, and Jon Heslin!

On Wednesday, November 11, Ana Lagos Uriza, Ernest Macharia, and Ava Rudy (pictured left to right) represented Centennial High School at a Student Leadership Meeting at the Board of Education.

Sponsored by the Howard County Association of Student Councils, the event included opening remarks by the BOE Chair, Ms. Jolene Mosley and Superintendent Mr. Bill Barnes, as well as discussion groups with Central Office administrators on topics chosen by students, focusing on issues related to HCPSS and their school community.

On Wednesday, October 22, twenty-four students from CHS participated in Part I of the University of Maryland High School Mathematics Competition to compete for scholarship and prize money. A total of 1184 Maryland students took Part I and of those, 223 qualified for the final round. Centennial had eight students qualify for the final round of the competition, which will take place on Wednesday, December 3.

Congratulations and good luck to Nathan Lu, Jeremy Yang, Joe Li, Leo Su, Ming Sun, Tommy Diep, Jayson Liu, and Lyra Su as they move on to the final round!

Congratulations to Audrey Gu, who was selected to serve on the Maryland Superintendent's Student Advisory Council for the 2025-2026 school year.

As a member of the Council, Audrey will have the opportunity to be an important student voice, sharing perspectives directly with the Superintendent and other student leaders from across the district to help shape important conversations about education, school culture, and student success.

We are proud of your leadership, character, and commitment to making a difference in your school community.

• November 14-16 - Fall Production of Ken Ludwig's Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood,
• November 15 - Spaghetti Dinner before the Show, 5:30 PM, tickets
• November 20 - Scheduling for Parent-Teacher Conferences Closes at 4:00 PM
• November 20 - Winter Athletics Orientation for Parents, 6 PM
• November 21 - CHS First Ever Lip Sync Battle, 7 PM, Auditorium
• Novmber 23 - PTSA Plant Sale Orders Due
• November 24 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early; In-person Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 25 - Schools Close 3 Hours Early; Virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences
• November 26 - Schools Closed for Students; Virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences

• November 27 - 28 - Schools and Offices Closed
• December 3 - Senior Portraits
• December 5 - PTSA See's Chocolate Orders Due
• December 8 - Winter Band Concert, 7 PM
• December 9 - Winter Orchestra Concert, 7 PM
• December 10 - Winter Choral Concert, 7 PM
• December 24 - January 2 - School Closed for Students for Winter Break
• January 5 - School reopens
• May 18 - June 4, 2026 - Class of 2026 Graduation Window

Friday, November 14, 2025

2:30 PM CLAP OUT to celebrate our State Champion Boys Cross Country Team and 2nd Place Girls Cross Country Team, AND to cheer on our Boys Soccer Team as they head to the State Championships!

7:00 PM Sherwood The Adventures of Robin Hood--Fall Production!!!!

Saturday, November 15, 2025

FIRST DAY OF WINTER SPORTS TRYOUTS–use the chart below to see the schedule!

2:00 PM Sherwood The Adventures of Robin Hood

2:30 PM Boys Soccer vs Stephen Decatur HS @ UMBC - BUY TICKETS HERE or get your tickets at GoFan.co

5:30 PM Spaghetti Dinner

7:00 PM Sherwood The Adventures of Robin Hood

Sunday, November 16, 2025

2:00 PM Sherwood The Adventures of Robin Hood

12:00 PM & 1:00 PM Girls Flag Football at Cedar Lane Park field 6

Monday, November 17, 2025

Winter Athletic Tryouts – use the chart below to see the schedule!

The Midwest Clinic Trip Meeting in the auditorium, 7 PM

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Winter Athletic Tryouts – use the chart below to see the schedule!

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Cheer Tryouts continue – use the chart below to see the schedule!

Thursday, November 20, 2025–It’s school lunch Turkey Day!!

6:00PM Winter Athletic Orientation – Parents/Guardians of Winter Athletes make sure you attend so you can meet the coaches and get all the information for the Winter Season!

Friday, November 21, 2025

7:00PM Centennial’s first LIP SYNC BATTLE!

Saturday, November 22, 2025

2:00PM Wrestling Scrimmage vs Arundel HS and C. Milton Wright HS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE WEEK…

Congratulations to Mr. Traver and the entire cast of Sherwood for an AMAZING opening night!

The show runs through Sunday–make sure you get out to see it! Bravo 👏👏👏

State Championship Ticket Information:

All Tickets MUST be purchased online!

• STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES: Admission is $10. Ages 6 and under are free. BUY TICKETS HERE or visit the GoFan website to purchase. There will be no on-site ticket sales.

Spectator Guidelines

• No re-entry once you leave the stadium/school building

• Spectators MUST be in the bleachers while attending athletic contests

• No spectators are allowed on track/field during an athletic contest

• UNSPORTSMANLIKE behavior, taunting, inappropriate language, targeting specific athletes/spectators/coaches/officials will not be tolerated and will result in immediate removal from the contest, and possible future contests.

• NO horns, noisemakers, confetti bombers, or anything that would disrupt the game or bother spectators are allowed in the UMBC stadium!

Please understand that this is an MPSSAA event and staff members are only following guidelines from the MPSSAA.

Let’s Go, Eagles!!

Make sure you're ready to participate in Winther Athletic Tryouts for Allied Bowling, Cheerleading, Boys and Girls Basketball, Wrestling, and Indoor Track!

TRYOUTS BEGIN FOR MOST SPORTS ON SATURDAY, 11/15! SEE THE SCHEDULE BELOW.

1. Register for Athletics through Synergy's Parent Portal. Directions for Registration

2. Make sure your Physical is completed on the HCPSS form and up-to-date! The 'medical eligibility' page is a MUST and needs to include your name, eligibility box checked, medical professional/doctor's name and signature, the date of the exam, and the address of the doctor or stamp from the office.

3. If you are missing any paperwork, you may not participate in tryouts! Don't wait until it's too late!!

Reach out to Centennial's Athletics & Activities Manager, Mrs. Clark, if you have any questions!

You can reach her at rebecca_clark@hcpss.org or 410-313-2865

Link to Google Calendar

Boys JV/V Basketball

Rob Slopek robert_slopek@hcpss.org

Due to soccer playing in the state championship game on Saturday afternoon we are moving tryouts for ALL RETURNING PLAYERS & new juniors & seniors.

Saturday, November 15

6:30 – 8:00am ALL RETURNERS/JR/SR NEW UPPERCLASSMEN

Tryouts for any new freshman or sophomores will remain 1:00-3:00 and 6:00-8:00.

Monday, November 17

5:00 - 7:00pm ALL RETURNERS/JR/SR NEW

7:00 - 9:00PM NEW FRESH/SOP

Tuesday, November 18 - Final cuts

5:00 - 7:00pm VARSITY ONLY TRYOUTS

7:00 - 9:00pm JV ONLY TRYOUTS

Girls JV/V Basketball

James Stefan jstefan11@gmail.com

Saturday, November, 15

Check-in at 7:30am

8:00am - 10am

Monday, November 17 &

Tuesday, November 18

3:00pm - 5:00pm

Boys & Girls JV/V Wrestling

Cliff Kraisser

ckraisser@yahoo.com

Saturday, November 15

8:00am - 10:00am in the cafeteria

Monday, November 17 &

Tuesday, November 18

5:00pm - 7:00pm in the cafeteria

Boys & Girls Indoor Track

Boys’ Coach: Corey Eudell

corey_eudell@hcpss.org

Girls’ Coach: Kevin McCoy kevin_mccoy@hcpss.org

Saturday, November 15

9:00am - meet on the track

Monday, November 17 &

Tuesday, November 18

3:00pm - meet on the track

JV/V Cheerleading

C’yana Denby

Ceeyahnah@gmail.com

Monday, November 17 through

Wednesday, November 19

3:00pm - 5:00pm in the cafeteria

Allied Bowling

Lizz Engle

elizabeth_engle@hcpss.org

First Match at 3:00pm on Monday, December 1 at Normandy

NEW CLUB ALERT: The Athletics Department is looking for responsible students interested in our new Game Day Operations Club. If you know a student interested in pursuing a career of Athletic Management or simply wants to be part of the CHS Athletic Program's day-to-day management, please reach out to rebecca_clark@hcpss.org

We're still looking for singers at our home athletic contests! Complete the form if you're interested in auditioning to sing the National Anthem at sporting events. This audition is open to CHS students.

Make sure you're ready to participate in Wither Athletic Tryouts for Allied Bowling, Cheerleading, Boys and Girls Basketball, Wrestling, and Indoor Track!

Complete the following before Monday, November 10th to make sure you're ready for tryouts:

1. Register for Athletics through Synergy's Parent Portal. Directions for Registration

2. Make sure your Physical is completed on the HCPSS form and up-to-date! The medical eligibility/clearance page is a MUST and needs to include your name, eligibility box checked, medical professional/doctor's name and signature, the date of the exam, and the address of the doctor or stamp from the office.

3. If you are missing any paperwork, you may not participate in tryouts! Don't wait until it's too late!!

Reach out to Centennial's Athletics & Activities Manager, Mrs. Clark, if you have any questions!

You can reach her at rebecca_clark@hcpss.org or 410-313-2865

Check out @centennial_hs_boosters on Instagram for the most up-to-date tryout schedule!

Class Blankets are here! This classic fleece blanket is soft, warm, and available in 3 colors: royal blue, red, and heather gray. It will be embroidered with Centennial, Eagle Logo, and Class of with their graduation year in the corner. Its dimensions are 50" x 60" and is a 7.8-ounce, 50/50 cotton/poly fleece blend.

Click the links below to go to OSP and order yours today! Sale ends on November 16, 2025.

Class of 2026 Blankets

Class of 2027 Blankets

Class of 2028 Blankets

Class of 2029 Blankets

Once again this year, we will be competing in the statewide Young Authors Contest. There will be an INFO MEETING on Wednesday, November 19, during Eagle Time in Mr. VW’s Room 108. All are invited!

Last year, we had ELEVEN Howard County winners and FOUR Maryland state winners, and we expect to finish even stronger this year. Spread the word to all your friends who write, and even those who have talked about writing! ALL ARE INVITED!

Questions? Contact Mr. VW at rus_vanwestervelt@hcpss.org.

Centennial's first ever lip sync battle will be held on Friday November 21st, at 7 PM in the auditorium. Come watch your teachers (and some fellow classmates) compete for the title of Lip Sync Battle Champion! The event is free, and the winner is decided by you!

Early bird voting bundles are available at discounted rates until Thursday November 20th, via OSP. See below for early bird and event night pricing. Link to purchase early bird votes: https://osp.osmsinc.com/p/DA041-1141

Early Bird Pricing: $1 buys 2 votes; $5 buys 12 votes; $10 buys 30 votes; and $20 buys 70 votes!

Pricing at the Event: $1 buys 1 vote; $5 buys 7 votes; $10 buys 20 votes; and $20 buys 50 votes!

You’re invited to the GT Advanced Research Information Night!

Learn about the GT Advanced Research options at CHS from the comfort of your own home!

• Who should attend?

• Students, and parents of students, who are college bound and want a leg up on the competition!

• Students/parents of students who love research.

• Students/parents of students who are currently working or would like to work in a professional internship

• What will students do in Advanced Research?

• Learn and use college-level research skills

• Develop and deliver professional presentations

• Build a professional network with professionals

• Write a fully-sourced synthesis essay

• Develop a product to showcase their research

• Why should students take GT Advanced Research?

• To choose their own area of study and spend a whole year researching it

• To learn the process and practice of college-level research while still in high school!

• To learn the “soft skills” employers are looking for in today’s job market

• To practice independence and time management--needed in college and beyond

To find out more, please plan to attend one or both of our virtual GT Information Nights:

• CHS Presentation: Thursday, December 4, 2025 @ 7 PM

• Please register HERE

• Google Meet Join code: meet.google.com/rqn-smmj-jde

• Countywide Presentation: Presented by the HoCo GT Office, Tues. Dec.9th @ 7PM

• Please register HERE: Link to presentation will be available upon registration.

Planning ahead: the GT Independent Research and for GT Intern/Mentor courses require an application. Interested students should list the course on their course selection sheet and start the application process early as there are multiple steps involved. Applications for GT Research will be accepted until Friday, January 23rd, 2026.

Applications for both courses are available here or on the CHS website:

• Independent Research Application

• Intern/Mentor Application

Please contact Toni Ireland, the CHS G/T Resource Teacher at toni_ireland@hcpss.org or visit our school website at https://chs.hcpss.org/academics/gt if you have any questions.

ARL Career Academy Info Sessions:

November 11 and December 10 from 6:15-7:30

Current 8-11 grade students and their parents/guardians are invited to check out ARL’s Career Academies at our in-person Information Sessions.

Are you interested in an immersive, hands-on, and project-based learning experience? Are you looking for real-world experience and credentials in a career field?

Schedule

6:15-6:30 pm Walk around to explore academies and find first session

6:40-7:00 pm Session I

7:05-7:25 pm Session II

From Biotech to Health Professions, Heating, Ventillation, and Air Conditioning, Cybersecurity, Graphic Design, Animation, Automotive Technology, Agricultural Science, Construction, Finance, Aerospace and Civil Engineering and Architectural Design, our programs are designed to provide high school students with opportunities to earn college credit, scholarships, and industry-recognized credentials, participate in worksite and mentorship experiences, and become creative problem solvers by participating in hands-on project-based learning.

Come see what we offer! More information about ARL and the Career Academies offered can be found on the

Hearts In Action is thrilled to announce the return of our beloved holiday fundraiser — the CHS Holiday Thrift House — happening on December 13 from 9 AM to 12 PM! All proceeds will benefit Grassroots, a local organization dedicated to supporting individuals in crisis.

We’re currently accepting donations of new or gently used items that can be resold at low cost. Suggested donations include:

• Toys
• Arts & crafts supplies
• Board games
• Candles
• Books
• Picture frames
• Other small, giftable items

Donation drop-off: Please place items in the collection box located outside the main office.

Thank you for helping us spread holiday cheer and make a meaningful impact in our community!

CHS is among a select group of schools that receive extra support from a team called CCEIS (Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services). This team works alongside school staff to provide additional resources, strategies, and professional development that strengthen how we support all students, especially those receiving special education services.

The goal is simple: to ensure every student has what they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Students may notice new tools, activities, and supports designed to help create even stronger learning environments.

Are you in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade with at least a 3.75 GPA and are involved with your community? You might be a great nominee for a $1000 Carson Scholarship! In order to be considered for this nomination, students will need to provide a resume and list of community service activities to school counselor, Mrs. Jones, in Student Services by November 21st. Find more information about the program here: Carson Scholarship Information.

HCPSS Academy Info Sessions:

Calling all 10th, 9th, and 8th graders interested in an ARL Academy Program: Visit an information session on 12/10 from 6 - 7:30 PM at the ARL building next to the board of education off of Route 108. For more information visit the following link: https://arl.hcpss.org/event/2025/11/11/calling-all-10th-9th-and-8th-graders

EAGLE SOAR TUTORING

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.

Please help us to feed our busy staff during conference time on Monday, November 24.

Items can be dropped off at CHS between 11 - 11:25 AM on Monday, November 24. Food can also be dropped off to Karyn Hobson. Please email her at hobsoncentral@gmail.com to make arrangements.

Baked Potato Bar Sign-up

The CHS PTSA Staff Appreciation Committee will spread holiday cheer by giving a delicious box of homemade cookies to all staff members and bus drivers.

We ask volunteers to donate 4 dozen homemade cookies. We also welcome special items like candy and fudge. Drop off donations between December 12, and December 15. More information may be found in the Holiday Cookie Sign-Up.

Holiday Cookie Sign-Up

PTSA's annual Holiday Plant Sale is back! Beautify your home in time for the holidays, and/or provide lovely gifts for friends and family.

Order in our Givebacks store (Givebacks) by November 23 and your plants will be ready for pickup the week of December 8. Make sure to leave email and/or a phone contact so we can notify you of the exact pickup date at CHS.

Sweeten your holidays with some of the finest candies available. Order your See's chocolates in the CHS PTSA Holiday Storefront (CHS PTSA 2025 Holiday Storefront | See's Candies Yum-Raising) through December 5, and they will be shipped direct to your door.

These chocolates are a delicious indulgence (WYKYK), and make amazing gifts.

November Restaurant Night is at Jersey Mike's at 9338 Baltimore National Pike in Ellicott City on Wednesday, November 19th, 4-9 PM. Enjoy a delicious sub prepared exactly the way you like it, while supporting PTSA at the same time.

Mention the fundraiser when you pay, and Jersey Mike's will donate 25% of the sale to PTSA.

Thank you for your support!

Hey artists! National PTA Reflections Art Contest is going on now. This year's theme is "I Belong!"

Reflections invites entries of original work in the categories of

• Dance Choreography
• Film Production
• Literature
• Music Composition
• Photography, and
• Visual Arts

Submit your artwork by December 8. Winners at the school level advance to the State level, and from there to National. For more information on how to participate, see Reflections | Centennial HS PTSA.

HCPSS has received confirmation from Merriweather Post Pavilion of the window for the Class of 2026 high school graduations as May 18-June 4, 2026.

Confirmed dates and times are typically available in the early spring, once Merriweather finalizes its events schedule and provides HCPSS with specific dates for use.

Jostens has provided our school with one last late order cap and gown package, which includes the CHS red custom design cap, gown, and tassel.

The orders must be paid by Credit Card, Venmo, or Zelle, no later than December 12, 2025!

Please email our Jostens representative at: karen.stewart@jostens.com, Monday thru Friday between 9 AM and 7 PM. Be prepared to pay in full when you email Karen. She will take your order and give you a confirmation.

Please, do not wait...place your order as soon as possible!

If you are planning to wear a cap and gown from a sibling or a friend, please see Ms. DeVore in Student Services so we can update our list with your information!

Senior Portraits are available through Legacy Studios. Photo session are available at our school on the following dates:

• December 3

Please go to www.seniors.legacystudios.com to book your appointment today (make sure you select "Centennial High School - Ellicott City" when you type in your name in the search bar).

Numerous packages are available, so please review all of your options!

Questions? Please contact Mr. VanWestervelt (VW), CHS yearbook sponsor, directly at rus_vanwestervelt@hcpss.org.

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!

Legacy Studios was at school on September 18 and 19, taking underclass pictures. Families should receive notification that their pictures are ready to view by October 1.

View your portraits online: LegacyFindMyCode.com

Picture retakes are scheduled for Tuesday, October 28.

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.

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.

Check out all of the dates and locations for the Howard County Health Department Flu Clinics.

FREE Parenting Classes for Parents and Grandparents

Raising preteens and teens is tough. Wouldn't it be great if adults could attend a class to learn how to help their kids/grandkids avoid risky behaviors? There is.

HC DrugFree's FREE classes for Howard County parents, guardians, and grandparents are back!

The Fall 2025 series will run (Tuesdays and Thursdays): November 11, 13, 18, 20 and December 2 from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Zoom.

While the curriculum is for adults with 9-14 year olds, HC DrugFree strongly encourages HoCo adults with students in K-12 to try to attend all 5 classes. Some families have attended more than one series!

Remember, parents or grandparents living out of the area can join us on Zoom during their lunch break.

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

Learn how to:

• Strengthen Family Bonds

• Develop Healthy Beliefs and Clear Standards

• Avoid Trouble and Respond to Peer Pressure

• Manage Conflict and Express Feelings Constructively

• Prevent Drug Use in Your Family

• And More!

Learn more and register

Drive-Thru Medication Disposal: Saturday, October 25 in the Wilde Lake Village Center Parking Lot near the Swim Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medication, vitamins, pet meds, vape devices, inhalers, and more. Unlike previous events, we will not collect sharps (needles, syringes and EpiPens). Need student, adult, and medically-trained adult volunteers. Earn Community Service Hours! Giving away 100 medication lockboxes. For more information and to volunteer visit HC DrugFree's website: https://hcdrugfree.org/drug-take-back-day-1/

Teen Advisory Council:

To RSVP/register to receive the Monday, November 3 TAC meeting Zoom link, click here. Meetings will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Each meeting has a unique link, so members must RSVP/register before each meeting.

Students: If you have not submitted a new 2025-26 registration, please complete this form to register for the coming school year. Even if you have been a member for several years, we need a new registration each school year.

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

Free Newsletter: Stay up to date with HC DrugFree's free events offering Community Service Hours to HoCo students, resources, and a variety of substance use and behavioral health information! Sign up for HC DrugFree's free digital newsletter: https://hcdrugfree.org/enews-signup/

Know what's happening in Howard County. Sign up for HC DrugFree's free newsletter at tinyurl.com/HCDFNews or follow us on social media to get updates on events as well as information to keep your family safe and informed:

• Facebook: facebook.com/HCdrugfree
• X: twitter.com/chdrugfree
• LinkedIn:linkedin.com/company/ch-drugfree

• 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.