The Knightly News May 22

Welcome back to this week’s edition of The Knightly News, your all-in-one stop for celebrations, updates, and reminders from around the Central community. Let’s keep the pride strong and the momentum going!

Do you need help with your homework? Are you struggling in a class? Tutoring is available every Tuesday and Thursday in the library from 2:45-4:15 pm. No appointment necessary; just come to the library after school.

If you failed a class in high school, you need to recover the credit. You can do this by completing a class on Edgenuity. Credit recovery help will be available every Monday and Wednesday from 2:45-4:15 pm in the library. No appointment necessary; just come to the library after school.

Please note that unit tests MUST be taken in the library during a credit recovery session. No phones will be allowed during testing.

Knights Take City Hall — Civics Day!

On Monday, our Central Knights Civics students headed to City Hall for Providence Civics Day and made us incredibly proud! Students presented their projects to community members, city council workers, and elected officials — receiving real feedback from real decision makers who are shaping the future of our city. This is civic engagement at its finest, and our students showed up ready to have real conversations about real issues.

One of the most memorable moments of the day came when Mayor Brett Smiley mentioned Central students multiple times in his speech — because our Knights have made an impression that he has simply not forgotten. That does not happen by accident. That is the result of students who show up, speak up, and make their voices heard. Our students also had the opportunity to sit down with RIPTA leadership to advocate for improvements to public transportation for PPSD students — bringing their research, their ideas, and their passion for change to a table that matters. And of course, they wrapped up the day with a photo with the Mayor to commemorate an unforgettable experience. Click that image to learn more about Civics Day preparation.

But the story is not over yet! This Friday, our Civics students head to the State Civics Day Competition alongside 30 schools from across Rhode Island, where they will present their plans to a panel of judges across five categories. We will be cheering them on every step of the way.

Mental Health Fair — Thank You Central!

Tuesday evening, our school community came together for our annual Mental Health Fair from 4–6 PM and the night was nothing short of beautiful. Students, families, and community members filled the space with connection, conversation, and care — exactly what our students deserve and exactly what this event was designed to create.

A very special thank you to our Art Department for going above and beyond to make the night extra special — donating t-shirts, equipment, and their time to create custom volunteer t-shirts for the event. That kind of generosity and school spirit sets Central apart and does not go unnoticed by anyone in that room. See photos of their beautiful designs below.

The night was also made even more memorable by a stunning performance from OKAZE, a self-taught cover dance crew made up of students and alumni from Central, Classical, and PCTA. They brought energy, talent, and pure joy to the room and reminded every single person there that self expression is one of the most powerful tools we have for mental wellness. Thank you to every volunteer, every organizer, and every person who showed up to support our community. Nights like this are what Central is all about. Please click on the image of dancers in formation to see a video of the mental health fair.

JROTC Shines at Regional Raider Challenge!

Our Central Knights JROTC cadets traveled to the Regional Raider Challenge competition this past weekend and came home with some serious hardware — and even more serious pride! The team put together an outstanding overall performance, earning 3rd place overall and 3rd place in First Aid, demonstrating the discipline, teamwork, and preparation that define this program every single day.

But one of the biggest highlights of the weekend belonged to an individual standout — Carolina Valenzuela, who claimed 1st place for Best Warrior Female. This is an incredible achievement that speaks to Carolina's strength, her dedication, and the heart she brings to everything she does. We could not be more proud of her.

And to cap off an already incredible weekend, our cadets crossed the finish line first in the 5K race, claiming the top spot and proving that Central Knights have the endurance and the grit to compete with anyone in the state. To every cadet who laced up and gave everything this weekend — you represented Central beautifully. To First Sergeant Jent and the entire JROTC program — thank you for continuing to develop some of the finest young leaders in this building. Check out the video below to hear directly from the cadets.

Science Comes Alive in Mr. Major's Class!

Learning took on a whole new meaning this week in Mr. Major's class when students rolled up their sleeves for a real-world environmental science investigation — dissecting a fish to identify biological markers of pollution! Students were not simply reading about environmental issues from a textbook — they were examining them up close, with their own hands, asking questions and thinking critically about what they were discovering.

This kind of experiential, hands-on learning is exactly what sticks with students long after the school year ends. When you can see, touch, and investigate a concept firsthand, it becomes real in a way that no textbook page can replicate. Our students were engaged, curious, and doing the kind of scientific thinking that prepares them for college, careers, and a lifetime of asking great questions about the world around them. This is what great teaching looks like. Well done, Mr. Major and Knights!

Central High School Virtual Art Exhibit — Now Live!

Our talented Central artists are on display and the exhibit is open to everyone! The Central High School Virtual Art Exhibit is now live and accessible to the public — showcasing the incredible creative work of our student artists. We invite students, families, and the entire community to visit the exhibit and show our Knights some love! After viewing, please take a moment to fill out the feedback form — your kind words mean the world to our artists.

🖥️ View the exhibit: sites.google.com/providenceschools.org/centralhighartexhibit/home

📝 Leave feedback: Scan the QR code or use the feedback form link!

RISD Project Open Door — Apply Now!

Attention student artists! Applications are now open for RISD's Project Open Door Saturday Portfolio Program! This free program offers art classes for teens interested in developing their creative talents, exploring different approaches to art-making, and building a portfolio for college or future endeavors. Portfolio classes take place every Saturday from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM on the RISD campus, beginning October 3, 2026. The deadline to apply is June 12th — but don't wait, the sooner you apply the better your chances of being accepted! Scan the QR code to apply. For questions, see Ms. Mulcahy in Room 333, Ms. Jarvis in Room 329, or Ms. Fontes in Room 351.

Staff Spotlight — Ms. Shannon Gormley

There are people at Central High School who work quietly behind the scenes, pouring themselves into this community in ways that most people never fully see. Ms. Shannon Gormley is one of those people — and this week, we want to make sure everyone sees her.

In her four years at Central, Ms. Gormley has become the kind of staff member that this school simply could not function without. She spearheads Student Council, giving students a platform to find their voice and shape the culture of their school. She planned Prom — and if you have seen this year's theme, A Knight in Paris, you already know she does not do anything halfway. She coordinated Central's participation in the Mental Health Fair, ensuring our students have access to the resources and conversations that matter most. She led all of the incredible work around Civics Day, guiding our students all the way to City Hall and now to the State Competition this Friday. And on top of all of that, she produces the yearbook — the book that captures every memory, every milestone, and every moment of the school year that our students will treasure for decades to come.If something meaningful is happening at Central, there is a very good chance Ms. Gormley is behind it. She is, in every sense of the word, the heart and soul of this school.

And in what little free time she has left — because let's be honest, there is not much of it — Ms. Gormley loves to camp. She just got herself a brand new camper that she plans to park in Narragansett all summer, which honestly sounds like exactly the kind of rest she has more than earned. She is a food lover who is currently working her way through 52 free pizzas from Betolla in Cranston — a commitment we deeply respect. She has an awesome son, an awesome dog, and a pretty awesome husband who is also an educator.

Ms. Gormley — thank you for every late night, every early morning, and every moment you have given to this school and these students. Central is so lucky to have you.

At Central, we know it takes a community to help every Knight shine. This section highlights resources, events, and opportunities for the adults and partners who support our students every day.

Orthopedics Express Appointments

Attention athletes and families! Ortho RI, the official Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Partner of the RIIL, has expanded their Express hours at their Providence location, making it even easier to get specialized care for acute orthopedic injuries. No need to wait — same-day and next-day appointments are available!

Providence Express Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Call 401-777-7000, Option 1 or visit orthopedicsri.com/ortho-ri-express to book your appointment!

Join the School Improvement Team & Community Action Board

Are you interested in having a voice in shaping Central’s future? Students, families, and community members are invited to join the School Improvement Team (SIT) and the Community Action Board. These groups work collaboratively to support school improvement efforts, strengthen partnerships, and uplift student and family voice.

If you are interested, please call Central to let us know, or fill out the short form below. We would love to have you be part of this important work!

Graduation Information – Class of 2026

We are excited to share important details for Graduation 2026

Graduation Ceremony

📅 Monday, June 8, 2026

⏰ 7:00 PM (Students must arrive by 6:00 PM)

📍 Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The Vets)

1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, RI

Graduation Rehearsal

📅 Monday, June 8, 2026

⏰ 11:30 AM

📍Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The Vets)

1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, RI

⚠️ Please note: Students must attend graduation rehearsal in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.

More information will be shared as we get closer to these important milestones.

JV Volleyball — STATE CHAMPIONS!

We have some very exciting news to share and we are not going to bury the headline — our JV Volleyball team won the Division 2 State Tournament this past weekend and they are STATE CHAMPIONS! This is one of the most exciting moments of the school year and a milestone that every player on this roster will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Winning a state championship is no small feat. It takes months of preparation, early mornings, late practices, tough losses, and the kind of trust in each other that only comes from putting in the work together day after day. This team has done all of that and more. They have competed with heart, they have played with class, and they have represented Central High School with everything they have all season long.

To every player who stepped on that court, every coach who believed in them, and every family member and fan who showed up to cheer them on — this championship belongs to all of you. State Champions. That is what Central Knights are made of. We are so incredibly proud!

Track — Strong Showing at Central Divisional Championship!

Our Boys and Girls Track teams represented Central with pride at the Central Divisional Championship this past weekend! Both squads had strong showings and gave everything they had on the track. We are so proud of every athlete who competed and every coach who prepared them for the moment. The hard work and dedication of our track program is on full display and we cannot wait to see what comes next. Let's go Knights!

Virtue of a Knight: Honor — April

This month, our Virtue of a Knight focus is Honor — doing the right thing even when no one is watching, acting with integrity, and holding yourself to a high standard in all that you do. We are proud to recognize the following students for demonstrating honor in consistent and meaningful ways.

• Silvia Claribel Acan Ramirez (9th Grade) — Nominated by Ms. Tang

Silvia consistently demonstrates honor in her everyday actions. She follows expectations, treats others with respect, and makes responsible choices even when no one is watching. Her commitment to always doing the right thing sets a powerful example for her peers and helps strengthen the character and reputation of our Central community.

• Ruth Germosen Morfe (10th Grade) — Nominated by Dr. Tate & Ms. Maleiko

Ruth exemplifies honor through her character, quiet strength, and unwavering composure. She treats others with respect and maintains her calm demeanor even when those around her don't. When redirected, Ruth accepts responsibility gracefully and turns every correction into a learning moment — a true sign of maturity and integrity. Ruth is also a natural leader who encourages those around her to be their best selves, often going above and beyond to help her peers and teachers without ever being asked. Ruth has been nominated by both Dr. Tate and Ms. Maleiko — two different staff members who independently recognized the same honorable character she brings to every space she enters. We are so proud of you, Ruth!

• Joselino Gonzalez (11th Grade) — Nominated by Ms. Veliz Ochoa

Joselino consistently demonstrates honor by making the right choices, even when no one is watching. He shows integrity in his actions, treats others with respect, and takes full responsibility for his behavior. His positive attitude and unwavering commitment to doing what is right reflect beautifully on himself and on our entire Central community.

• Kiara Bautista (12th Grade) — Nominated by Ms. Kozak & Nurse Cardin

Kiara embodies honor through her honesty, accuracy, and tireless work ethic. In Anatomy and Physiology, she approaches every task with genuine dedication and integrity — giving her full effort and holding herself to a high standard every single day. Beyond the classroom, Nurse Cardin has also recognized Kiara for her kindness, politeness, and the consistent respect she shows toward everyone she meets. Kiara has been independently nominated by both Ms. Kozak and Nurse Cardin — proof that her honorable character is not situational, but simply who she is. We couldn't be more proud to celebrate you, Kiara!

Honorable Mentions — Honor

We also recognize the following students for demonstrating honor throughout the month of April:

• Justin Sanchez (9th)
• Tomas Saquic (9th)
• Jeffrey Ortiz Mota (9th)

• Yahaira Velasquez Martinez (10th)
• Juan Montano (10th)
• Regalodelcielo Tambah (10th)
• Hunter Evans (10th)
• Ximena Dayana Hurtado Navarrete (10th)

• Joel Salas Tebalan (11th)

• Eduardo Gomez (12th)
• Zayi Manderena (12th)

Thank you to our staff for uplifting student character and to our students for continuing to model the values that strengthen our Central community. Next month's virtue is Integrity — stay tuned!

Scholarship Opportunity — Patricia W. Edwards Memorial Art Scholarship

Attention 9th, 10th, and 11th graders! The Rhode Island Foundation is now accepting applications for the Patricia W. Edwards Memorial Art Scholarship, available to young Rhode Island artists who wish to take one art class at a Rhode Island institution such as RISD or AS220. Applicants must demonstrate artistic ability and interest in painting and/or drawing. Award winners will have their work featured in an art show at the RI Foundation, and artists, family members, and art teachers will be invited to attend. Awards of up to $500 are available. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 4, 2026. Visit rifoundation.org to create a login and complete the eligibility quiz to get started. For questions, contact Monica Benson at 401-427-4017 or mbenson@rifoundation.org!

Summer Opportunity — AI & Data Science Camp at Bryant University!

Attention students! Bryant University is hosting an AI & Data Science Camp this summer — a hands-on program where students will explore how Artificial Intelligence and data are changing the world and learn how to be part of it! Topics include Generative AI, Python Programming, Data Visualization, 3D Printing, Virtual Reality, and Numerical Fabrication. The camp runs Monday, August 10 through Friday, August 14, 2026 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The enrollment fee is $200, due upon acceptance. A limited number of need-based full and partial scholarships are available for those who qualify. Applications are being accepted through June 2026. Scan the QR code to apply today!

Mental Health Awareness Month — Take Care of You!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and our Student Support Department wants to remind every Knight that taking care of your mental health matters. While it can sometimes feel overwhelming, there are small but powerful steps you can take every day to support your own well-being. Check out this month's awareness poster for five helpful self-care tips for your mental health. And remember — you are never alone at Central. If you need someone to talk to, stop by Room 105 to connect with our Student Support team. We are here for you!

Mayo es el Mes de la Concientización sobre la Salud Mental — ¡Cuídate!

Mayo es el Mes de la Concientización sobre la Salud Mental, y nuestro Departamento de Apoyo Estudiantil quiere recordarle a cada Knight que cuidar de su salud mental es importante. Aunque a veces puede parecer abrumador, hay pequeños pero poderosos pasos que puedes tomar cada día para apoyar tu bienestar. Consulta el cartel informativo de este mes para conocer cinco consejos útiles de autocuidado para tu salud mental. Y recuerda — nunca estás solo en Central. Si necesitas hablar con alguien, visita la Sala 105 para conectarte con nuestro equipo de Apoyo Estudiantil. ¡Estamos aquí para ti!

Welcome from the Central High School Library!
Mrs. Silva is your Library Media Specialist (email:
darshell.silva@providenceschools.org)

Students are always welcome in the library!
Library hours are Monday - Friday 7:30AM - 2:45PM
Library can be open before/ after these times by request.
1st semester 2nd period and B Lunch the library is closed; 2nd semester 1st
period and B Lunch library is closed.
A pass from a teacher is required to visit the library during regular class
times.
If you want to come to the library during A or C Lunch, you must get a pass
in the morning.
Check out the new Central High School Library Site for resources, events,
activities and more by clicking the button below.

Did you know Central has its very own food pantry? Central Cares is here to support our students and families with free food and pantry items — no questions asked.

If you or someone you know could use a little extra support, please stop by the main office to access the pantry or learn more.

Because at Central, we take care of each other. 💛

Check Out The Pantry Stock

Interested in finding food related resources closer to home? Use the button below to open the Food Finder application and find resources close to you.

Do you want your pictures or information included in next weeks newsletter? Fill out the form below