RHS Rams Corner News

It's that time of year where we show our incredible staff some well-deserved love and appreciation! From May 5th to May 9th, we have the perfect opportunity to recognize and thank the dedicated individuals who make our school such a special place.

Our teachers, administrators, counselors, building services, office staff, and all other members of the school staff work tirelessly every day to support and educate our students, create a positive learning environment, and ensure the smooth operation of our school. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for their jobs truly make a difference in their lives of our students and the entire school community.

During this week, let's come together as a community to express our gratitude and appreciation for all that our staff members do. Whether it's a simple thank you note, a quick email, a kind gesture, or just a smile and a word of thanks, every expression of appreciation will make a difference and brighten their day.

Please join me in making Staff Appreciation Week a memorable and meaningful time for our staff, showing them how much we value and appreciate everything they do. Together, we can create a culture of gratitude and respect that will continue to inspire and support our staff throughout the year.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating and honoring our amazing Rockville High School staff during Teacher Appreciation Week!

During the month of May, the United States celebrates...

Asian American/Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Jewish American Heritage Month

May marks the celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the many cultures, languages, and stories that make up these vibrant communities. From the islands of the Pacific to countries across Asia, the diversity within the AANHPI umbrella is vast—and so is the impact these communities have made throughout U.S. history.

Whether through groundbreaking innovation, artistic expression, civic leadership, or cultural traditions, AANHPI individuals have shaped our nation in profound ways. This month, we also reflect on the barriers many have faced, and the strength, advocacy, and perseverance shown in the pursuit of equity and recognition.

Additionally during the month of May, we take this opportunity to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to reflect on the historical and ongoing contributions of Jewish Americans to our country and to celebrate the depth of Jewish culture and identity.

Jewish Americans have played influential roles in shaping the United States—from advancing civil rights and justice, to enriching our intellectual and artistic landscapes, to building strong communities rooted in faith, family, and tradition. This month gives us space not only to honor those achievements but also to acknowledge the history of discrimination and antisemitism many have faced, and to renew our commitment to equity and understanding. Throughout May, our school will spotlight Jewish American experiences through a range of educational and cultural activities, designed to foster curiosity, empathy, and dialogue.

At Rockville High School, we are committed to fostering a school culture that embraces diversity, inclusion, and respect. Throughout the month, students will have opportunities to engage with AANHPI and Jewish American history and culture through classroom lessons, school events, and resources in our library and learning spaces. We encourage everyone to take part, ask questions, and engage in meaningful learning and dialogue.

All students, who did not opt out of an exam, have received their testing information (time, location, etc) via email. Paper passes have also been distributed.

Students are expected to be prepared for their exams at least 45 minutes before the start time.

Should you become ill on test day, alert Mr. Hankerson asap to be scheduled for late testing.

As a reminder, the full testing schedule can be found here: RHS AP_IB Exam Schedule SY25

For any questions regarding AP testing, please reach out to Mr. Hankerson, Sidney_A_Hankerson@mcpsdmd.org.

The Art Department is pleased to announce that we have a Finalist in this year’s Sustainability Poster Contest!

One RHS student in the 9-12 category used expressive line work and bold colors to show the disastrous effects of irresponsible climate stewardship.

The winner will be chosen by a blind public vote. Voting closes at 5pm on Monday, May 12! Voting is open to MCPS staff and students only.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNnheEu2trbmjsj4Fcuwk9vDMtcEDqFaXpA1B34SjOvRJfsw/viewform

Congratulations to Sanam Tamrakar, 25’ whose art piece, Archways of the Abyss, has been selected to represent Rockville High School and MCPS at a variety of opportunities next school year. Sanam’s artwork will be used in various art shows around the county and state.

Additionally, Congratulations to Vanessa Aguilera Leiva, '25, whose work, Stop and Think, won an Honorable Mention award for the MOCO Recycling Poster Contest design!

And last but definitely not least, Congratulations to Bella Vilchez, ‘25, whose work, A Glimpse of Peace, for winning Honorable Mention for the Matt Papirmeister Award. Bella has generously donated her artwork to the Youth Art For Healing Foundation and it will most likely be installed at Georgetown Hospital.

*Parent consent received for students by Bang/Chavarria*

American Sign Language Honor Society will be hosting an ASL showcase May 30th from 5:30-7:30 in the auditorium at RHS. Come see students' stories they have worked on and get a glimpse of Deaf culture. Don't know ASL? Have no fear, we will have visual supports to help you understand the stories. No cost for entry, donations to ASLHS accepted. Questions?

Reach out to Liz Hill, elizabeth_hill@mcpsmd.org. Look forward to sharing the night with you!

The end of the spring season is closing in quickly.

Playoffs will be starting soon. As soon as the information comes out, we will pass it on.

Please continue to have your student-athletes communicate with teachers about missing classes, etc - want to end the year on a positive note.

Teams will be having their end of the season banquets. Dates will be announced.

The Varsity Banquet will be on May 22nd at 6pm. More information to follow.

Thank you, RAMily, for your support communicating with your students the importance of being present to school each day and arriving to school and class on time. Teachers have expressed their gratitude with the consistent messaging across the school and community that learning is important, from bell to bell. Consequently, students are able to fully benefit from the valuable instruction and opportunities that our teachers provide.

Per our the RHS school-wide tardy policy, teachers will reach out to families via Remind or Synergy email if students develop a pattern of chronic tardies in a particular class period. Additionally, families will be receiving weekly communications from administration regarding chronic tardies to first period. Specific questions about tardies and/or attendance can be directed to our attendance secretary, Ms. Mary Norfolk at Mary_E_Norfolk@mcpsmd.org

Again, thank you for partnering with us to ensure that our students regularly attend school and are on time for class.

Key Club would like to thank everyone who donated and to teachers for their flexibility in allowing students to do this. 34 units of blood were collected, surpassing the goal of 30 units!

Supporting and Promoting the Well-being of High School Students and Families, Bridge to Wellness (BTW) is a team composed of a licensed Mental Health Therapist, a family Care Manager, and a Youth Development Specialist. Referrals are coordinated through each school’s Social Worker. The following services are available for individual, family, and group therapy, community resource navigation, psycho-educational groups, mentoring, SSL hour opportunities, and field trips. Bilingual services are available as well.

To get additional information about our BTW Program, please contact the counseling department at 240.740.6620.

Thanks,

Jamilet Machado, LMSW

Bilingual Mental Health Therapist

Bridge to Wellness at Rockville High School

School-Community Youth Services

On June 3, 2025 at 6pm in the cafeteria there will be a rising senior meeting. This is intended for students and parents.

I have worked with several college admissions representatives to bring you a college rep panel this year. You will not want to miss the opportunity to hear from these representatives about the college application process and their schools.

Start keeping note of your questions now!

Additionally, the summer workshop schedule is underway. If you would like to see anything specific, please let me know using this form: https://forms.gle/4VbpouSghWDsXcEy5

We are fast approaching the end of the year for Seniors. We have testing and Senior Fade out week before Memorial Day (Please see the school website in the Class of 2025 section for information regarding that week). Just a reminder that once Seniors leave that week they are to only report back to Rockville for Graduation Rehearsal Day (Wednesday June 4th). Then our Graduation is on Monday June 9th at 9am at UMBC. More information and reminders will be shared through Synergy and Remind as we get closer. Any questions, please email Mr. Trail Raymond_j_trail@mcpmd.org

You also have the chance to submit your RHS Memories to appear in a slideshow at graduation. Pictures can be submitted here (until May 28): https://bit.ly/3DXAcBE

The Senior Survey is due May 23. Make sure this is completed to not delay receiving your cap & gown.

Seniors were encouraged to wear all their college/career gear to celebrate making this momentous decision. We had a scavenger hunt occurring throughout the day, thank you cards, rock painting, a photo-op area, AND….

SNACKS & DRINKS provided by the amazing RHS Booster Club!!

Please join us in giving them a resounding THANK YOU for this massive support!!!

Graduation and Graduation Rehearsal are almost here! Grad Rehearsal is Wednesday, June 4th in the Main Gym from 9-12 and is MANDATORY for all seniors that plan to walk at Graduation. Graduation is on Monday June 9th starting at 9:00am at UMBC. Graduates are expected to arrive and be in line by 7:30am. Parents are expected to provide transportation for their graduate.

All seniors will receive their cap & gown and 10 tickets for Graduation during the Rehearsal time IF all obligations have been paid. If your student has an obligation(s), he/she must pay before rehearsal through Schoolcashonline.

If you have any questions please email Ms. Victoria Wolk or Crissy Shevchenko, Victoria_A_Wolk@mcpsmd.org or Honor_C_Shevchenko@mcpsmd.org.

Finish Strong!

Parents/Guardians, it is important that our students in ALL grade levels finish strong. Final grades for each semester are added to their transcript which is shared with all post-secondary schools. Continue to ensure students are submitting their assignments by the set deadlines. Students should be reaching out to their teachers for support as needed.

Resource for SOS: Signs of Suicide

Last month, our students participated in the annual SOS: Signs of Suicide Lesson during their Wellness Block. Below you’ll find a handout on SOS for Parents and Caregivers.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your student’s counselor directly.

The Rockville High School Child Development Preschool Program is now accepting applications for the 25/26 school year! The preschool runs Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00am -11:10am. If you or anyone you know have a preschool aged child and are interested in signing up or getting more information please contact Kelsey Boyd at Kelsey_m_boyd@mcpsmd.org.

You can find the application on the RHS website!

Requirements:

• Must be 4 years old by September 1

• Potty Trained

• $100 nonrefundable deposit with application (check written out to Rockville Rompers)

The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) will be administered on May 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th. MCAP consists of four state exams: Biology, NSL Government, English 10 Language Arts, and Algebra 1. All students enrolled in these courses MUST take the MCAP, a graduation requirement for a high school diploma in the state of Maryland. Students who were previously enrolled in these courses but did not take the MCAP, must also test. Click HERE for the MCAP testing schedule.

EOC (End of Course) exams are part of the MCAP (LS-MISA, MCAP Government) and count for 20% of a student’s grade. It is a state developed exam administered at the end of Biology B and National, State, and Local (NSL) Government B courses.

NOTE: Students who do not take the corresponding EOC for Biology B or NSL B during the testing window, will receive a grade of Incomplete for the marking period and semester.

Additionally, all 9th grade students enrolled in English 9 and Algebra 1 will take the MAP Growth exams during class time, May 19th - 23rd.

Please ensure that your student arrives at school each day on time with a fully charged Chromebook for testing.

**Students who are not testing (6th, 7th, 13th, or 14th) will be participating in "Study Hall Activities." All students not testing are EXPECTED to be in school and ready to learn no later than 12:00 noon each day on May 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th.

Please see the full schedule for MAP and MCAP testing below. If you have any questions, please email Ms. Abuliak at Monica_Abuliak@mcpsmd.org

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma, fostering open conversations, and promoting access to resources that support mental well-being. Mental health affects every aspect of our lives– from how we think and feel to how we relate to others and handle stress. This month, we encourage our RAMily to learn more, check-in with themselves and others, and take action toward creating a culture of understanding, empathy, and support. Whether it’s seeking help, offing a listening ear, or sharing educational tools, every step counts in building a mentally healthier world! Below are a few resources for you and your family.

Mental Health Resources at Rockville High School:

Well- Being Social Worker: School social workers serve as an advocate in the best interest of students and provide learning opportunities and resources regarding mental health, mindfulness, and well-being for staff, students, and families Dana Gardner 240-740-6620 or Dana_N_GardnerLeacock@mcpsmd.org

School Counselor School Psychologist: School Psychologists are mental health professionals trained in both psychology and education who provide psychological services to all students. Ciara Capara 240-740-6600 or Ciara_W_Caprara@mcpsmd.org

Parent Community Coordinator (PCC): Parent Community Coordinators (PCCs) are school-based professionals who help build and strengthen positive relationships with families, especially those who may be facing challenges related to language, culture or economics. They serve as liaisons, partners & specialists for student success. Eduardo Garduno 240-672-7488 or Eduardo_GardunoVilla@mcpsmd.org

Pupil Personnel Worker(PPW): Pupil personnel workers are complex problem solvers that can help families address attendance concerns, needs for community resources, and enrollment concerns. Andrea Carter 240-740-6620 or Andrea_Carter@mcpsmd.org

Bridge to Wellness Staff: Mental health, community resource, and youth development service hub for students and families.

Contact Social Worker, Dana Gardner for more information

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Mental Health Resources in the Community:

Montgomery County Crisis Center:

Provides 24/7 crisis services including walk-in, telephone and mobile crisis support.

1301 Piccard Dr 1st Floor

Rockville MD 20850

24-777-4000

Montgomerycountymd.gov

Psychology Today

Directory of therapy and support groups in Rockville.

psycologytoday.com

NAMI Montgomery County MD

Offers free, peer-led support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families.

1 Research Court, Suite 315

Rockville, MD 20850

301-949-5852

namimc.org

Every Mind

Provides mental health services, including crisis prevention, community education, and support for veterans and caregivers

everymind.org

JSSA (Jewish Social Services Agency)

Offers workshops and support groups for individuals of all ages in Montgomery County.

240-880-5772

www.jssa.org

Suicide Hotline

Call or Text 988

Thank you,

Dana N. Gardner-Leacock, LMSW

Well- Being Social Worker

Rockville High School

240-740-6620 ext.11902

Dana_N_GardnerLeacock@mcpsmd.org

Department of Student Engagement and Behavioral Health

MCPS Office of School Support and Improvement (OSSI)

Well-Being and Student Services (WBSS)

Rockville High School is committed to supporting student learning in a positive learning environment. During classroom/instructional time, cell phones and other personal mobile devices (ex: airpods, gaming devices, iPads, etc.) must be silenced and remain in a bookbag or purse, unless directed otherwise by the teacher.

Students may use their phones before and after school, during class transitions, and during lunch. Parents may also contact their children during these designated times, or contact the office.

There has been an increase in students not adhering to the personal mobile device policy. Teachers will begin assigning classroom and office consequences to students who are unable to utilize their PMD's responsibly. Please review the policy with your child and partner with us by outlining your parental expectations of the appropriate times for using their PMDs.

Thank you for reinforcing the importance of engaging actively in learning during classes and using personal mobile devices during designated times only.

IB exams began on April 29. Please note that the IB does not give make up exams. All students must be present on the day of their exams. In the event of serious illness please make sure to contact the main office immediately and have them get a message to Ms. Ainsworth. The IB testing schedule is below. All IB exams take place over the course of 2 days. Exams are held at the Korean Church across the street from RHS. Students must arrive by 8am for morning exams and noon for afternoon exams. Please note that students will need to stay for at least 2 hours regardless of the exam time. Students have been given their exam schedules and also received an email with their exam schedule.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/13nIj6NXgWu033lt4qAjNQiHUmd8RvTv2h00P86UeF5Q/edit?usp=sharing

We still need a few more parent volunteers to help proctor the IB exams. If you can help please sign up using the link below:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4FA9AF2AA2F85-55372658-ibexam#/

The Rockville HS IB program is evaluated every five years. Our current evaluation is underway. As part of the evaluation process the school gathers feedback from stakeholders. Please fill out the survey below to provide input on our IB program.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeO-dHQfl-JqwbHLX0N3nY5Nn9io486gUJRiNxxTBy1_9TNNQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Fri, May 2
Jazz Cafe

Wed, May 14
MANDATORY Senior Student Meeting
Boosters Meeting

Tue, May 20
Senior Awards Ceremony
PTSA Meeting

Thu, May 22
Varsity Sports Awards Night

Fri, May 23
Last Day for Seniors

Mon, May 26
Memorial Day—Schools and offices closed

Wed, June 4
MANDATORY Graduation Rehearsal
Senior Celebration

Fri, June 6
Professional day for all staff; no school for students

Ms. DelValle and Ms. Bovo are eager to welcome and assist our Rockville families with all business inquiries. The main office can be reached at 240.740.6600.

Please continue to use the Rockville High School website. It is an excellent resource to learn about what's going on at RHS. The daily announcements will be posted there along with parent group announcements (Ramsnet), athletic information, etc. The website can also be utilized to find important school business information.

Feel free to contact the main office with questions or concerns.

The MCPS Code of Conduct and A Student's Guide to Rights & Responsibilities will be distributed to all students in September. They are also online at https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/students/rights/.

Summer School 2025 focuses primarily on our high school students who need to earn credits toward graduation. Regional (in-person) and Central (virtual) High School Summer School Programs will be offered this year. Central and regional high school programs all carry tuition costs for the summer.

Regional High School Summer School Program: In-person at one location:

• Gaithersburg High School

*Students attend from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm daily. Students may take one course per session (may take one additional course in the Central Program as well, but Central course time must be late). Each .5 credit course lasts three weeks.

Central High School Summer School Program: Virtual/Online only

• Blended learning opportunity with 10 hours of required synchronous instruction, and approximately 30-40 hours of asynchronous work per course
• Each .5 credit course lasts three weeks
• Students may take up to two virtual classes per session (or students taking a course in the Regional Program may only take one additional Central Program course)

Parents will be able to register their students for classes beginning May 1 using ParentVUE. For more information on who is eligible, course dates, times, and cost, please visit the MCPS website.

There are many amazing things happening during the school day to support the learning of our students! At times, some students need some extra support to master new learning. MCPS has gathered resources that are free or low cost to families. These resources directly align with our curriculum used to teach our students each day. Let us know if you have any questions about your student’s academic progress.

Family Resources

RHS Welcomes Mr. David McCloud to our security team. Mr. McCloud joins us with experience from Walt Whitman and Clarksburg High School. We are happy to have join our RAM'ily!!!

Hi. I am David McCloud, your new Security Team Member at Rockville High School. I have been a security assistant for MCPS for 18 years. I am a former Metropolitan Police officer serving mostly the 5th and 6th district area. I am an avid sports fan and love football and basketball especially. I have been a high school football coach for two years, but my focus recently has been high school basketball, which I have coached for 20 years. I am super excited to serve the kids and the community of Rockville High School and I look forward to meeting you all.

We'd like to recognize our parent volunteers for your support this year by inviting you to a celebration in your honor. Tea, coffee and nibbles will be provided in the staff lounge on the morning of Friday, May 30, 2025. RSVP Here

� RHS Booster Club – May 2025 Update �

Boost the Experience. Boost the Pride.

� Celebrating an Incredible Spring Season! As we wrap up the spring season, we want to thank all our incredible volunteers, families, and students who made this one of the most successful Booster Club seasons yet! From the fans in the stands at spring sports and the phenomenal success of Mulch Madness 2025, your support continues to build momentum and school spirit at Rockville High School.

� MULCH MADNESS – RAMTASTIC SUCCESS!

A HUGE thank you to our community for showing up BIG! Here's what we accomplished together: • � 6,500+ bags of mulch sold • � 208 deliveries completed • � 40 homes received mulch spreading • � 400+ student volunteers and 75+ adult volunteers • � 40+ clubs, teams, and programs participated in spreading days We raised over $10,000 that will directly support RHS athletics, clubs, and student activities — THANK YOU!

� Spring Sports & Snack Bar Success � The Ram Shack was booming this season thanks to our dedicated parent and student volunteers. Your work helps fund key extracurriculars while feeding hungry fans! Thank you to everyone for helping to keep everything running smoothly.

� Still want to volunteer? � Sign up here: rhsramsboosterclub.com/volunteer

� Senior Celebrations & College Decision Day This May, we celebrate our amazing seniors as they prepare for the next chapter. Whether heading to college, trade school, the military, or the workforce—your Booster Club is proud of you!

� Be sure to follow us on Instagram: @rhs_booster

� By the Numbers – Booster Club Growth

✅ 92 Booster Supporters – up from 40 just one year ago ✅ 71 Century Club Members – more than double last year ✅ $10,250 raised from business sponsors – a 156% increase! Together, we’re transforming how our community supports student life at RHS.

Want to join us? It’s never too late! � Become a Supporter: rhsramsboosterclub.com/supporter

� Mark Your Calendar – May Highlights :

� City of Rockville Youth Track Meets – Thursday, May 1 and the following Wednesdays 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, and 5/28 •

� Relay for Life @ RHS – Saturday, May 17 (4–10 PM) (Volunteers still needed!) • Varsity Athletic Banquet & Awards– Thursday, May 22 (5:30 PM)

� Sign up: rhsramsboosterclub.com/volunteer

� Reimbursements & Forms Have expenses to submit from your team or committee? Use the Booster Reimbursement Form and return it to the Booster Club mailbox in the main office or email it to rhsramsbooster@gmail.com (Note: Processing takes up to two weeks).

� Final Booster Club Meeting of the Year!

� Wednesday, May 14 at 7 PM � RHS Staff Lounge Come vote on the 2025-2026 budget, elect new leaders, hear updates, and help shape next year’s goals! Thank you for helping us build something special.

Let’s finish the year strong — and GO RAMS! �

Please join us for our LAST PTSA Meeting for the year. It will be Tuesday May 20th at 7PM- Virtually. Here is the link. https://meet.google.com/ejh-tbpv-cyv.

We will be electing our new PTSA Board and approving our 2025-26 Budget.

🎶 Friends of Rockville Music (FORM) Updates for May 2025

5/2 Jazz Cafe and 5/12 Final Member Meeting/Board Elections/Budget Passage

Final Member meeting of the school year - budget approval and elections!

Monday, May 12, 7 PM at RHS Choir Room.

We will pass the 2025-2026 budget and elect 2025-2026 Board members.

Stay up to date on Music events and more - visit our Website and Instagram!

Visit us at www.friendsofrockvillemusic.org or Instagram @rhs_form

A reminder that all RHS students and staff are REQUIRED to have their school IDs on their person & VISIBLE when on school property. Students who do not have their IDs will need to pay for a replacement ID.

ParentVUE is the online platform available to parents to check attendance, monitor grades, and access school information. Parents should have received information via email with an activation code. The link to ParentVUE is accessible from the Rockville High School webpage, under Quick Links. These are the directions to activate your ParentVUE account and a link to frequently asked questions.If you need your activation code or are having trouble recovering your password, please contact the school via phone.

The 2024-2025 school year is quickly coming to an end. Throughout the month of May, our students will be participating in various district, state, and national testing. Our seniors will be finalizing their 4th quarter grades and participating in their culminating senior activities such as the athletic banquet, senior awards night, graduation rehearsal, senior celebration, and GRADUATION.

May is jammed packed with activities!

Please review the testing calendar, the May monthly calendar, and any email correspondences from RHS to find pertinent information as it relates to your child's activities. Please partner with us by ensuring your child is PRESENT and ON TIME to each activity.

Best,

Principal Pyles

Next Newsletter: June 2025