CHS News

Today, Centennial High School proudly hosted its 4th Annual Black History Month Assembly, organized by our Black Student Union under this year’s theme, “Made of More.” The program served as a powerful reminder that Black history is not limited to a single month or a collection of names in a textbook, but is instead a living legacy of creativity, resilience, innovation, and impact that continues to shape our world today .

The assembly brought Black history to life through dynamic student-led performances that included spoken word poetry, musical selections, dance, visual art, and a cultural fashion showcase. Students honored the past while celebrating the present through meaningful artistic expression rooted in identity, perseverance, and hope.

Highlights of the program included a moving performance of the Black National Anthem, poetry by Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Tracy K. Smith, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and Evie Shockley, hip-hop choreography created by one of our own students, and a fashion segment that showcased traditional African attire alongside modern Black-influenced fashion trends. Students in Centennial’s art program also created and displayed original portrait artwork honoring influential Black Americans, using their talents to visually celebrate the strength, brilliance, and impact of these historical figures.

Centennial’s Bella Voce choir also delivered a powerful performance of the Negro spiritual Children, Go Where I Send Thee, followed by a hopeful duet performance of Wheels of a Dream, reflecting the enduring belief in a better future despite historical challenges.

Congratulations to the vocalists: Claire Adams, Anaya Alexander, Evy Armstead, Annabelle Baik, Finely Babik, Raelyn Bai, Anna Benedict, Cayelynn Binnie, Erin Breon, Raegan Chambers, Neya Chandrasekaran, Raina Chatur, Amber Cheng, Sagun Chhetri, Tessa Cipriano, Evelyn Danna, Joy Dong, Ava Elias, Hannah Elpus, Zola Gargano, Emily Giusti, Elyse Henn, Ramisa Islam, Ananya Kallat, Parneet Kaur, Saroop Kaur, Zoe Kuria, Haier Liu, Emma McMonagle, Jannah-Rae Mike, Sophia Mondy, Adeola Olukoya, Neha Parepally, Scarlett Rhee, London Roberts, Char Roddy, Gisele Roddy, Elise Rudy, Liana Shin, Lucy Smith, Madison Wolfram, Alyse Woodland.

This year’s assembly also recognized the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, which began as Negro History Week in 1926, founded by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The program emphasized that Black history is an essential part of American history and continues to be written each day through the voices and talents of our students.

We would like to recognize the following students who contributed their time, creativity, and talents to today’s program: Sienna Lowery, Kinley Agent, Rakeb Alemu, Anaya Alexander, Eniya Headspeth, Jada Franklin, Joi Guide, Ayden Reeves, Nya Jancewicz, Moyo Adebanjo, Corey Ruffin, Caleb Jackson, Tobi Viatonu, Brooklyn Williams, Aniyah Walton, London McGriffin, Chelsea Kuria, Aubrey Alexander, Isabella Weaver, Sarah Fapohunda, Bria Franklin, Lensa Diriba, Maxeen Incoom, Ernest Macharia, Seyi Oladeji, Dwight Brown, Peace Funso-Ore, Angelo Coates, Halina Dawit, Blen Dawit, Sydney Chambers, Tani Armstrong, Chloe Oni, Alisa Daniel.

A huge thank you to our amazing BSU Board: Joi Guide, Caleb Jackson, Ernest Macharia, Dwight Brown, Bria Franklin, and Nya Jancewicz, for their leadership in organizing today’s meaningful celebration.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to our musicians and special guests, Ms. Lynique Webster and Mr. Asriel Davis, for sharing their incredible talents.

Thank you to the wonderful BSU advisors, Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Moody. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Miller, Ms. Vanover, Ms. Turk, and Mr. White for going the extra mile and for their unwavering support in helping bring this program to life.

Today’s assembly reminded us that when we take the time to learn one another’s stories, we build empathy, understanding, and unity within our Centennial community.

Mrs. Hui Liang organized a magnificent Lunar New Year Celebration, sharing a culture rich in beautiful traditions. Many thanks to the students, staff, families, and community members who supported this fantastic celebration!

Eleven outstanding CHS students have advanced to Finalist standing in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition:

• Darsh Bakshi
• Andrew Baynes
• Albert Cao
• Thomas Diep
• Qiao Fan
• Emma Fradlin
• Kelly Ji
• Srihas Kodali
• Aiden Lee
• Sophia Liang
• Kai Luo

Congratulations! We are so proud of your accomplishments!

Over the past couple weeks, the CHS Boosters hosted several Future Eagles Nights for our elementary and middle school students in the community! Thank you to all the families who came out to cheer on our CHS Winter Athletes!

• February 20 - Food for the Soul, Words for the Heart, 6-8 PM
• February 20 - Boosters hosting Trivia Night, 7 PM, Kiwanis Wallas
• February 23 - Spring Sports Registration Due
• February 28 - Friends of Music BINGO, 7 PM (doors open at 6 PM)
• February 28 - Spring Sports Tryouts Begin
• March 3 - One Centennial Career Day, 8 AM - 11:30 AN
• March 7 - HBCU Career Fair, Sponsored by HCPSS, Guilford Park HS, 9 AM - 2 PM
• March 12-14 - Spring Musical Production of Seussical, 7 PM, tickets
• March 15 - Spring Musical Production of Seussical, 2 PM
• March 18 - Senior Luau, 6-9 PM, tickets
• March 23 - Orchestra Spring Concert, 7 PM
• March 24 - Band Spring Concert, 7 PM
• March 25 - Choir Spring Concert, & PM
• March 26 - Dancing With the Staff, 7 PM
• April 17 - GT Student Learning Conference
• April 23 & 24 - Spring Dance Concert, 7 PM
• April 25 - Prom
• May 18 - June 4, 2026 - Class of 2026 Graduation Window

Friday, February 20, 2026

3:30PM JV County Wrestling @ Guilford Park HS

4:30/6PM JV/V Girls Basketball vs Marriotts Ridge HS **Senior Night at the start of the Varsity game for Drill Team, Cheerleaders, and Girls Basketball**

4:30/6PM JV/V Boys Basketball @ Marriotts Ridge HS

6:00PM Food for the Soul in the Cafeteria

Saturday, February 21, 2026

8:00 AM V County Wrestling @ Guilford Park HS

8:00AM Speech and Debate Tournament

11:00AM Varsity Girls Basketball vs Mt. Hebron HS

12:30PM Varsity Boys Basketball vs Reservoir HS **Senior Game**

Monday, February 23, 2026 - SPRING TRYOUT REGISTRATION DUE!!

3:00PM Meeting for Spring Coaches in the cafe

4/5:30PM JV/V Boys Basketball vs Hammond HS

6:00PM HCPSS County Coaching Meeting in the cafe

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

6:00PM HCPSS New Coach Orientation at HCC

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

3:00PM Math League in the media center

Thursday, February 26, 2026

6:00PM Mock Trial Celebration in the cafe

Friday, February 27, 2026

TBD Wrestling Regionals

Saturday, February 28, 2026

FIRST DAY OF SPRING TRYOUTS!! Online registration including a current physical exam (using the HCPSS form), a current utility bill (water or electric bill) from January or February to show proof of residency, and 2nd quarter grade eligibility (minimum GPA of 2.0 with no more than 2 Es)

• Boys Lacrosse - 8-10am on the turf

• Girls Lacrosse - 1-3pm on the turf

• Softball - 9-11am on the field

• Baseball - 9th & 10th graders from 10am-12pm on the field, 11th & 12th graders from 11:30-1:30 on the field

• Track - 9-11am meet by the gym

• Tennis will begin on Monday, 3/2

*times and locations may change due to weather!

6:30PM BINGO! in the cafe. Hosted by Friends of Music

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE WEEK…

Congratulations to our indoor track State Contenders Zachary Herzberger, Jason Oberly,

Jack Arrington, Derek Locktish, Ian Doll, Eniya Headspeth, Kaylee Beal, Clara Curtis,

Samantha Raker, Sarasa Nauen, Natalie Bank on an outstanding performance at Wednesday’s 3A State Championships! The following athletes medaled at the meet:

Ian Doll 4th in 3200m

Jason Oberly 4th in 1600m

Derek Locktish 6th in 1600m

Eniya Headspeth 2nd in 300m and NEW SCHOOL RECORD

Kaylee Beal 3rd in 1600m and NEW SCHOOL RECORD

Zac Herzberger 6th in 800m

Our athletes are incredible–so many had personal records and season best times! We are so proud of them! Shoutout to Coach McCoy and Coach Eudell on an outstanding season!

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

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

Mr. Traver if you’re interested in performing.

ATHLETICS NEWS

SPRING TRYOUTS BEGIN ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH–

SCHEDULE YOUR PHYSICAL EXAM WITH YOUR DOCTOR, IF YOU HAVEN’T DONE SO!!

Make sure you're ready to participate in Spring Athletic Tryouts for Allied Softball, Boys and Girls Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball, Tennis and Track & Field!

Complete the following before Monday, February 23rd to make sure you're ready for tryouts:

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

2. Make 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

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

Let’s Go, Eagles!!

The Scholars Leadership Honors Program would be delighted if you would join us in our observation of Black History Month at the tenth annual Food for the Soul, Words for the Heart. It is an evening of cultural cuisine (fried chicken, baked macaroni and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, cornbread, and an assortment of desserts) and performances. This event will occur on Friday, February 20th, from 6 PM -8 PM in the cafeteria.

Tickets are $20 at the door.

We hope you can join us!

Centennial High School is seeking volunteers from our community to serve as interviewers for our upcoming Junior Interview Day, and we would greatly value your participation.

As part of the Howard County Public School System’s Graduation Requirements (Policy 8030: Career Preparation Requirements), all students complete structured career preparation activities, including developing a four-year plan, preparing a résumé, and participating in a job interview simulation. Our Junior Interview Day gives 11th-grade students the opportunity to practice professional interview skills in a realistic, supportive setting with adults from a variety of career fields.

We are looking for volunteers who are willing to conduct short mock interviews, ask prepared questions, and offer brief, constructive feedback. No prior interviewing experience is required — all questions, scoring guides, and a brief orientation will be provided.

Event Dates & Volunteer Shifts:

• Tuesday, March 17 — 8:00–11:00 AM (arrive at 7:45am)

• Tuesday, March 17 — 11:30 AM–2:30 PM (arrive at 11:15am)

• Wednesday, March 18 — 8:00–11:00 AM (arrive at 7:45am)

If you are interested, please let us know which time slot(s) you are available by completing the following form: CHS Junior Interview Day Volunteer Form.

Your involvement makes a meaningful difference by helping students build confidence and connect their learning to real-world career expectations. Thank you for considering this opportunity to support our students.

Tickets are available for purchase at https://hcpss.booktix.com/dept/chs/e/SCHS

Now one of the most performed shows in America, Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Tony winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once on This Island, Ragtime), have lovingly brought to life all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – Jojo. The colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos.

The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust that contains the Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many "thinks." Horton faces a double challenge: not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant. (From mtishows.com)

We hope to see you there and thank you for your continued support.

Attention 9th, 10th and 11th grade students! Would you like to represent Centennial High School and participate in nominating the next Student Member of the Board of Education?!

Student Delegate Applications are now being accepted through February 20, 2026. Here is the link to apply!!!!!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qS6Y5vKST2tYupfNzBWJKGYZO_3P1IL4/view?usp=sharing

Once the application window closes, applicants will have a 15-minute in-school interview with Dr. Miller, Mr. Parker and two senior students. If chosen, the six delegates will attend the SMOB Convention in March/April and gather feedback from our student body to take to the Convention.

See Dr. Miller for any questions.

HCPSS is thrilled to host the annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College and Career Fair on Saturday, March 7 from 9 AM - 2 PM at Guilford Park High School! This dynamic event offers students and their families a unique opportunity to connect with HBCU representatives and a wide variety of career and trade professionals from across the nation.

Attendees will meet HBCU representatives ready to share insights about their universities, along with career and trade organizations representing fields such as the Armed Services, Baltimore County EMT, Construction, Howard County Emergency Dispatch, and more.

The excitement continues with interactive workshops focused on financial aid, scholarships, essay writing, and college applications. Students will also gain practical skills through sessions on creating a standout résumé and cover letter, as well as tips for mastering a successful interview.

Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to explore pathways, build connections, and plan for the future! For more information, please visit our website (Click Here).

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

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

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

Centennial High School is excited to host our annual One Centennial Career Day on Tuesday, March 3rd, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and we are seeking parent and community volunteers to serve as career speakers.

Career Day allows students to explore a variety of careers through interactive, small group workshops. Speakers are invited to share their career journey, education or training experiences, and answer student questions. Demonstrations or hands-on activities are welcome but not required. Speakers may be paired with another professional if preferred.

If you are interested in participating or would like to recommend someone, please contact Lisa Clearfield, Career Readiness Advisor, at lclearfield@hcpss.org. Thank you for supporting our students and the One Centennial community!

Rising Seniors - Do you want to apply for an Apprenticeship for next school year? Complete this interest form NOW!

Will you be a 12th grader next school year? Do you want to enter the workforce while still in high school? Do you want to work with a mentor in a specific career field? Do you want to get a jumpstart into an existing registered apprenticeship program?

Apprenticeship Maryland is a graduation pathway for seniors, who are interested in employment and further education in a career pathway. Students participating in the Apprenticeship Maryland Academy will earn a salary while learning valuable and marketable industry skills. The program includes a combination of on-the-job training and one year of industry related classroom instruction.

For more information, click here: HCPSS Apprenticeship Links to an external site.

Please complete the following form to indicate your interest in the program: 26-27 Apprenticeship Application Interest Form Links to an external site.

Once this form is completed, Ms. Clearfield, Career Readiness Advisor and Ms. Kochanski, Career Coach, will be in touch to schedule an appointment to complete the application, resume, and cover letter. Ms. Kochanski will also work with you on interview preparation.

Please do not hesitate to ask any questions.

Winter is here and we our supply of tissues is running low.

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

Join us for after-school tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday in the Media Center from 2:35 PM – 4:00 PM! This is a great opportunity to finish homework, get expert help in any subject from your teachers and peers, work on organization and enjoy free snacks.

After-school buses will be available on Tuesdays. Buses leave at 4:00 PM on Tuesdays and will use the following hub stop for drop off:

• Miller Branch Library

• Roger Carter Center

• Normandy Woods Dr. @ Wheaton Way

• Wheatfield Way @ Rolling Meadows

• Brittany Dr. @ Roberts Rd.

The Emily Scott Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of 2018 Centennial High School graduate, Emily Scott.

CHS seniors in good academic standing and willing to share how they have demonstrated kindness and acceptance of others are invited to apply.

Two graduating seniors will be awarded scholarships of $2,500.

APPLY HERE BY MARCH 22nd!"

Who: SENIORS!

What: Senior Luau hosted by Class of 2026

Where: Centennial HS Cafeteria

When: Wednesday, March 18th from 6-9pm

Why: Celebrate the kick-off to spring of senior year with a laid-back Senior Luau! Enjoy Mission BBQ favorites (Vegetarian options available), great music, karaoke fun, and a photo booth to capture the memories as we soak up the good vibes. It’s the perfect way to relax, laugh, and celebrate how far we’ve come—luau style.

Price: $30 - tickets will be on sale on the OSP from Thursday, February 5th - Wednesday, March 11th

BUY TICKETS HERE THROUGH THE OSP

DISCLAIMER: This event will only go on if 150 tickets are sold! We know you can do it, as you were able to for the Senior Crab Feast in the fall. Show off your pride and get graduation season started with your fellow seniors! Refunds will be made if the event is cancelled"

Attention seniors! Auditions for speaking and performance roles for graduation are open. See Canvas for a link to the application form and additional information. For Graduation we are looking for a Master of Ceremonies, Keynote Speaker, and Turning of the Tassels speaker. If you have a unique message for the Class of 2026 we want you to audition! We also need a student performance. Ensembles of all seniors are preferred over a single performer.

https://forms.gle/EAcdECLKfGWM4twz5

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.

After Prom will be here before you know it!

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

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

Volunteer Signup Genius link:

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

Donation Signup Genius link:

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

Attention all Juniors and Seniors!

We are excited to host After Prom this year at Supreme Sports Club. We need your help to make this the best experience for you by knowing what you want! Answer the questions below before March 6th to give your input and be entered to win a free ticket to After Prom.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdEcEtNRxRZeKkJLhhCaioXML1G5-LrkauzJgoiXaI-nLE1Kw/viewform?usp=header

Please join us in the Centennial HS parking lot on Tuesday, March 3rd before and after school for two awesome refreshment trucks!

Before school, starting at 7:00 AM, we will be having the Travelin’ Toms Coffee Truck. Directly after school we will be having Kona Ice.

Proceeds of all sales will go to support CHS PTSA After Prom.

Attention Eagle SAT Test-Takers! Please take note of SAT Prep classes being held at Centennial High School. Get ready, get prepared, you got this!

Register for any class and the CHS PTSA receives a donation.

We are so excited for our annual Friends of Music Bingo Fundraiser on Saturday, February 28th at 7pm. It is our largest - and most fun - fundraiser of the year and we hope you will join us!

Doors open at 6pm so that families can come early and listen to performances from some of our amazing student ensembles. Concessions will be available at that time as well - including pizza, chips, candy, and drinks - so please plan to come early, have dinner, and spend some time having fun and listening to great music. All money raised goes to the music department at CHS.

We will have a gift card table where you can purchase gift cards to local area restaurants and venues for a discounted price; great raffle prizes like O's gear, Donuts with the Directors, and a Nutri Bullet; and a silent auction with a lot of amazing items including Kendra Scott jewelry, tickets to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Merriweather Post Pavilion, and the Frederick Keys; as well as baskets from Playa Bowls, Panera, the Orioles, Greg's Driving School, and so much more!

Please see the information below on how you can pre-purchase tickets and pizza. Tickets will be available at the door and, new this year, we will be accepting credit card payments without fees!

Pre-Purchase tickets and pre-order pizza here: https://www.centennialmusic.org/bingo.html

This is always a fun night and we hope it continues to bring families together and gives our students a night to get together and have fun! Please see the flyer attached for more information.

The CHS Boosters will host a trivia night that is on Friday, February 20th, 7 PM at Kiwanis Wallas. Tickets are $50.

Teams have 10 people.

Sign up now!

1. Update Your Student/Family Emergency Information Today

Parents/guardians must verify and/or update emergency information for each child every school year.

This is completed online in Family File, which has several new updates including how and where to access. Full details on updating your Family File are available online.

One exciting new feature is that families now can submit a change of address via Family File, rather than completing a separate form and sending to their school. Full directions and information for families on this new process can be found online.

2. Apply for Financial Aide

The HCPSS participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. Students from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.

Parents/guardians must submit a new application every school year to maintain their student’s eligibility.

3. Update Your Medication Forms

Students who require medication to be administered during the school day need to have new forms (dated on or after July 1st) completed for this fall. For your convenience, you can find these forms on-line at the HCPSS website. Medical Forms.

4. Parking Permits

Permission for students to drive and park vehicles on school system property is a privilege. Parking spaces for students at Centennial High School are limited. Accordingly, in order to be granted this privilege, applications for parking permits will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis in priority order: 1) Seniors; 2) Students enrolled in Work Study/Intern Mentor Programs; and, 3) Juniors.

Permits will be issued in this order through the end of the third week of school. Beginning September 18th, remaining permits will be issued in the order applications are received. Permits will not be reserved for students who do not yet have a valid Maryland Driver's License. Students ARE NOT required by the school system to attend a ‘Safe Driving’ presentation this school year.

To apply for your permit:

• Login to HCPSS.me.
• Complete the application packet and save as a pdf.
• Take a photo of your driver’s license.
• Follow this link to submit the online application. The information collected through the online application is required by HCPSS.
• Your submission will be reviewed, and you will be notified via email once it is accepted.

For questions about applying for a parking permit at CHS please contact Marie Dow at marie_dow@hcpss.org.

Keep current on news and events throughout the school year by checking the CHS website: https://chs.hcpss.org. We have added an A to Z Reference Guide to the website as your one-stop information finder: attendance policies, parking permit applications, food and nutrition services, student technology support, and much more.

Getting to School

The official school hours for Centennial High School for the 2025-2026 school year, as set by the HCPSS Board of Education, will be 7:50 AM to 2:35 PM. Bus schedules will be available online.

We believe that the safest way for students who do not drive themselves to get to school is by accessing the transportation provided. However, we do understand that there may be occasions when it is necessary to drive your student to school. When that happens, please follow the procedures listed below to help ensure the safety of all students during school arrival time.

Students who must be driven to school are to be dropped off from the sidewalk next to Burleigh Manor, along the tennis courts, and to the auditorium entrance at the side of the building following the established traffic pattern. Drivers are NOT to use the parking aisles to drop off students.

Students may NOT be dropped off along Centennial Lane. Parents are to refrain from making U-turns on Centennial Lane as it impedes traffic and contributes to unsafe conditions for students and drivers.

Students who are driving themselves to school are encouraged to arrive early to avoid being tardy. Traffic jams occur daily during the morning rush along Centennial Lane. We very much appreciate your partnership to ensure our commitment to student safety.

Students who arrive at/after 8:00 AM are considered tardy and may receive disciplinary consequences.

Students can arrive as early as 7:00 AM, as our cafeteria is open. Between 7:00 AM and 7:40 AM, students are permitted to wait outside or go to the cafeteria. Students enter through the main doors in the bus loop area (they have to walk on the sidewalk at the auditorium entrance to the front) that lead directly into the cafeteria. Students may NOT go to classrooms before 7:40 AM unless they have a pass from a teacher.

Bus Locator

The online HCPSS bus locator tool is now available and can be found on the HCPSS Transportation webpage. Bus information also can be found in Family File via HCPSS Connect Synergy. With some overlapping school start times and/or transportation exemptions, it is possible that buses for different schools will arrive at bus stops around the same time. Please review your child’s bus number and be sure they know it and check before boarding the bus.

Student Technology Devices

To help remove technology barriers and advance equitable student learning outcomes, HCPSS has moved to a 1:1 student-to-device ratio. All students have or will be provided with a Chromebook. These devices are required for all county and state testing and assessments. HCPSS Technology and Devices information

Students who do not currently have an HCPSS issued device should report to the Media Center to have one assigned on Monday, August 25.

Lockers

All students will be assigned a locker. Students may come to the front office before the school day begins, during their lunch shifts, or during Eagle Time to report a broken locker or request help with a locker.

Attendance

Please follow these procedures to report an absence:

Absence notes and tardy notes for excused absences are to be emailed to CHSabsence@hcpss.org. Students who bring in physical notes may drop them off in the front office before the start of the school day.

Discretionary absence requests must be completed and attached through email in advance of the absence. The last possible day of school for the 25/26 SY is June 18th. If there are any make-up days added to the end of the year, we need you to be available to take exams on any day from June 7-18. Any requests for Discretionary Absences during that window of time will not be approved. Likewise, Discretionary Absences will not be granted during the week of January 16th, mid-term exam week. For questions about attendance, please reach out to our Attendance Secretary, Diane Howse at diane_howse@hcpss.org.

Support the Groups Who Support Us

The CHS PTSA offers programs, services, and supports to enhance the high school experience for all students, teachers, and parents. Join the PTSA now by logging into the CHS PTSA website.

The CHS Boosters serve all student extracurricular activities, including sports teams, school clubs, and student organizations. Join the Boosters now by logging into the CHS Boosters website.

Friends of Music supports vocal and instrumental music at CHS to guarantee the sustainability of these programs and to provide vital support to our music directors. Help our talented musicians thrive by joining us today through the FOM website: http://www.centennialmusic.org/.

It is important to support organizations that do so much for us and our students. We are a community!

As a student who attends ARL, there are some important things you need to know to start the school year off right.

On the Regular Bell Schedule:

• AM ARL bus departs at 7:50 AM and returns to CHS at 9:35 AM
• PM ARL bus departs on A DAYS (M, T, TH, F) at 12:45 PM and returns at 2:30 PM
• PM ARL bus departs on B DAYS (M, T, TH, F) at 11:15 AM and returns at 2:30 PM

On the Eagle Time Schedule – Wednesdays:

• AM ARL bus departs at 7:50 AM and returns to CHS at 9:35 AM
• PM ARL bus departs on A DAYS at 12:55 PM and returns at 2:30 PM
• PM ARL bus departs on B DAYS at 11:20 AM and returns at 2:30 PM

Transportation to ARL

The ARL bus leaves Centennial High School promptly at 7:50 in the morning. Students are responsible for arriving in time to board the ARL bus before it departs. Students who arrive at Centennial before the departure time may wait in the cafeteria, but should be sure to set alarms and monitor the time to make sure they don’t miss the ARL bus, which leaves our school at 7:50 AM.

Parents/Guardians are welcome to transport their students to the ARL in the morning. There is a designated Student Drop Off lane closest to Route 108 ( follow the signs). Do not pull into the bus lane that is directly in front of the building. Be aware that traffic around campus can be busy in the morning. Parents/guardians should plan on arriving at the ARL campus between 7:55 and 8:00 for morning classes. Students are expected to be walking into the ARL no later than 8:05 and in class by 8:10. Students arriving in class after 8:10 are tardy to the ARL.

Students who wish to drive themselves to ARL must complete a parking permit application. ARL does not have a dedicated student parking lot, and spots are limited. Priority for parking permits will be given to students currently attending HCC dual enrollment programs and to those students who have off-site internships as a part of their academy program. Students who wish to apply for a parking permit should submit an application found linked on the ARL Website. Students will be notified if they are approved or denied a parking permit, and will receive information on how to pick up their parking permit. Please note that student drivers are not able to leave the parking lot until all buses have departed.

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

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

• SPRING BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP

All families are welcome to attend the HCPSS SPECIAL EDUCATION RESOURCE FAIR!
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: Cedar Lane School, 11630 Scaggsville Road, Fulton, MD

This free HCPSS Special Education Resource Fair provides families with information available from the community and HCPSS to support their students receiving special education and related services. Get connected to services for students with a developmental delay or disability including:

• Services within HCPSS

• Recreational Activities

• Camps

• Community Groups

• Service Providers

• Transition Information

• Assistive Technology

• Behavioral Health

• Howard County Government Resources

For information, please contact FSRC@hcpss.org. Registration is not required. This event is part of the HCPSS Parent Empowerment Series including training sessions related to special education and events for families of students with an IEP or IFSP.

Calendar of Events:

• February 25 - Free Life Skills Classes first day of series (see update below)

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

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

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

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

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

So grab that camera and start filming YOUR story!

Films can range from:

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

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

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

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

• Centennial High School’s website is a great source of information at https://chs.hcpss.org.
• Instagram @CentennialHS
• Facebook @www.facebook.com/chs.hcpss.org
• Read the Wingspan, CHS student newspaper
• CHS PTSA https://www.chs-ptsa.org/and CHS Boosters https://www.centennialboostersonline.com/.
• CHS Friends of Music http://www.centennialmusic.org/
• Register to receive school system updates and alerts at https://www.hcpss.org/hcpss-news/, click on Subscribe and select Centennial High School.