September 14

CMITN548 / September 14, 2025

As I was reflecting on our school community, I was reminded of a story I once heard in an Asian telenovela. It stayed with me because it speaks about comfort zones, appearances, and the courage it takes to grow. I’d like to share it with you.

Once, a master tied his cheerful dog named Happy to a post and never returned. By day, Happy wagged his tail and greeted passersby, looking like the happiest dog in the world. People smiled at him, some stopped to pet him, and others even shared bits of food. Surrounded by kindness, Happy seemed cheerful. But at night, when the streets grew quiet, he wept—longing for his master.

One evening, a wandering dog noticed his tears and asked, “Why do you cry at night when you seem so happy during the day?” Happy whispered, “In the daytime, I see many people. They greet me, feed me, and show me affection. Their presence makes me forget my sorrow.” The wandering dog tilted its head and said, “If your heart longs for more, why don’t you free yourself from this post?” Happy lowered his eyes and replied, “Because I have been here so long that I’ve forgotten how to break free from this tie.”

At CMIT North, we are reminded of the same truth. Growth happens when we move beyond what is familiar and step into new opportunities. In the coming weeks, invitations will open for students to join one of the many exciting clubs submitted for approval—24 proposed student-led clubs and 27 new teacher-sponsored clubs. Each one is a doorway waiting to be opened, a chance to discover passions, build friendships, and grow into the leaders and dreamers of tomorrow.

👉 Parents, join us on September 27 for Club Expo—and remind your students that every great journey begins with a single step. Encourage them to take that step by joining a club and walking toward their dreams.

📌 CMIT North HS Newsletter is published every Sunday (or Monday if the Monday follows a holiday weekend).

🔗 Click here to see SY25-26: CMIT North HS Newsletter Publication dates

Gemma Clarke, Ph.D.

ngaudette@cmitacademy.org

Professional School Counselor (Caseload: College Counseling)

School Counseling Department Chairperson

ITEC Program Coordinator

Hello CMIT Students and Families!

My name is Dr. Gaudette and I am the College Counselor and School Counseling Department Chair for the 2025-2026 School Year! I am excited to be back for my 10th Year at CMIT! In addition to supporting College and Career Initiatives, I am the ITEC Coordinator, the AP Coordinator, the National Honor Society Advisor, the Peer Leaders Advisor and I am happy to answer any questions you may have about those things!

In addition to the roles described above, I also support students with their Service Hours and Schedules and am happy to assist students in those areas as well.

Statistics overwhelmingly show that parental involvement is the key to overall success of their children. Children whose parents are actively involved in their formal education undoubtedly have greater academic achievement. Additionally, children are more motivated when their parents show an interest. When schools and parents work together, students benefit tremendously academically, socially, and emotionally. For those reasons, it is so very important that we continue to work together as a team.

As one of the School Counselors in the building, I play a role in working directly with your students on their academic, career, and social/emotional development and I am excited to support your students as they progress through the school year. If you have any questions or need additional support, please don't hesitate to reach out to me via email!

Sincerely,

Dr. Gaudette

Hello! My name is Nicholas Hughes. I am a Professional School Counselor in Training from the University of Maryland College Park School Counseling Master's Program. I will be working alongside Dr. Gaudette and the Counseling Department during this Fall Semester.

I am originally from Georgia and graduated from University of North Georgia with a major in Psychology and a minor in Human Services. If you need any support, I will be here in CMIT North High School on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. I am looking forward to getting to know you all over the course of the semester and will do my best to help the counseling team support the students.

jconde@cmitacademy.org

Professional School Counselor (Caseload: Grades 9 & 10)

EOP Coordinator

Mr. Conde has been a proud member of the CMIT North family since 2011 and has served as a professional school counselor at CMIT North High School since 2021. With 20 years of experience in education, he remains passionate about helping students succeed and reach their fullest potential.

Outside of his counseling work, Mr. Conde enjoys exercising, reading inspirational books, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. A lifelong resident of the DC area, he is an enthusiastic supporter of local sports—especially the Washington Commanders.

For Mr. Conde, learning is a lifelong journey. His mission is to help students discover a genuine love of learning and connect that passion to fulfilling career paths after high school.

einci@cmitacademy.org

Professional School Counselor | 11th & 12th Grade Caseload

Welcome back to a new school year! My name is Ms. Inci, and I am the Professional School Counselor for 11th and 12th grade. I have been in education for more than 12 years and have proudly served the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation (CLF) community for over seven years.

This year, students and parents will receive many important updates from me about scholarships, internships, college and career planning, and service hour opportunities.

Please make it a habit to check your email daily so you don’t miss the latest information. I look forward to supporting our students’ growth and celebrating their successes throughout the year!+

The Special Education Department will host a Zoom webinar on Monday, September 22nd at 6:00 PM.

During this session, we will:

• Introduce our School Administration and Special Education Team

• Connect with families to build a strong, collaborative partnership

• Provide information about Special Education in PGCPS

• Share resources to help you better understand Special Education supports

• Answer any questions you may have

Zoom link will be shared closer to the event.

We look forward to seeing you there! If you have any questions please reach out to Ms. Tarver at rtarver@cmitacademy.org

A: On Tuesdays, We Vote!

The first results are in! Out of 336 votes, a big 69.6% of students say that Purple is the best color for a uniform shirt.

Stay tuned for next week’s question!

We’re excited to announce that applications for Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society are now open for current 11th and 12th graders! Rho Kappa recognizes excellence in social studies and offers opportunities for leadership, service, and scholarship.

Applications are due by September 22.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative unweighted GPA and 3.0 GPA in all social studies courses

• Completion of at least 2 years of social studies, currently enrolled in a 3rd year

• Score of 3 or higher on at least one AP Social Studies exam

• Participation in at least 2 CMIT History Department field trips (e.g., International Spy Museum, U.S. Capitol, National Constitution Center, American Revolution Museum)

Don’t miss this chance to join CMIT’s chapter of Rho Kappa and be recognized for your passion for history and the social sciences!

We’ve wrapped up MAP testing and are excited to begin diving into instruction in all of our math courses! As we transition into lessons, you may notice homework assignments coming home. These are an important way for students to practice skills and deepen their understanding.

Here are some ways you can partner with us to support your student’s math learning:

• Remember—you are a math person! A positive mindset makes a big difference.

• Ask your student what they learned today. This simple question encourages reflection and conversation.

• Ask for a demonstration! Having your student explain or show you a problem helps reinforce their learning.

• Keep an eye on Synergy and Canvas. These tools provide updates on grades, announcements, and attendance.

• Reach out to us if you need to! We’re here to support both students and families.

Thank you for being an essential part of your student’s math journey—we’re looking forward to a great start!

The English Department is now in full swing, with teachers establishing strong routines and procedures to support student success.

AP Language and Literature students have completed their Beginning of the Year diagnostics and are moving into Unit 1.

AP Literature students should have a copy of Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston by Monday, September 22, as we will begin reading and completing activities together in class.

Mr. Marshall’s Health 2 Class: Students delivered notebook presentations on health inequities and their connections to modern-day health practices. Please help support our scholars by encouraging conversations at home about health equity and wellness.

Science CER: Students across all science classes are practicing their writing and data collection skills through Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (CER) assignments. Please help support our scholars by encouraging them to practice their CER skills at home. See the graphic for the rubric.

📅Tuesday, September 16, 2025 ~ Sweet Treat, Sweet Cause!, A PTSO Fundraising

Support CMIT North HS PTSO the sweetest way possible—by enjoying frozen yogurt with family and friends!

• Where: SweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt – 3341 Corridor Marketplace, Laurel, MD 20724

  
  

• When: Tuesday, September 16

  
  

• How: Show this flyer (or display it on your phone) at checkout

  
  

• Why: A portion of the proceeds will support CMIT North HS PTSO programs

  
  

Enjoy a treat and help make a difference for our school community!

Join us as we launch an exciting new year with our STEM Ambassador Kick-Off Meeting! This hands-on, competition-based club gives you the opportunity to design, build, and innovate while proudly representing our school in STEM challenges throughout the year.

To make the event even more enjoyable, our supportive parents will be serving hotdog sandwiches, burgers, and drinks to keep us fueled as we get started.

Come ready to create, collaborate, and compete—this is the perfect chance to kick off the school year with energy, teamwork, and inspiration!

We can’t wait to see you there!

— Your Senior STEM Ambassador

CMIT North High School PTSO Announcement

Chesapeake Math & IT Academy North High School will hold our first General Body PTSO Meeting on: Thursday, September 26th at 6:00 PM

During this meeting, we will:

• Review and vote for PTSO Board Members

• Recap 2024–2025 PTSO events

• Share upcoming fundraisers and plans for this school year

We look forward to seeing our families and continuing to build a strong school community together!

Join us for our Annual Club Expo—a showcase of the exciting opportunities available to our students this year! Families can explore the wide variety of clubs and activities that support academic growth, leadership skills, creativity, and community engagement.

✨ Why it matters:

• Clubs help students discover new passions and talents.

• Participation strengthens college applications and scholarship opportunities.

• Involvement builds confidence, teamwork, and lifelong friendships.

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

14800 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel MD 20707

We also invite parents to partner with us—your support makes these programs possible, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or encouraging your student to get involved.

Together, we can create meaningful experiences that benefit every student. Don’t miss it!

Join us on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM as we come together for a Joy Walk and Joy Dance in recognition of World Mental Health Day and Bullying Awareness Month.

This uplifting event is designed to promote positivity, wellness, and community spirit. It’s a chance for students and staff to celebrate joy, raise awareness, and support one another.

Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025

14800 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel MD 20707

Join us on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM as we honor and celebrate the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of the Spanish-speaking world.

This event will feature engaging activities, cultural displays, music, and opportunities to learn more about the history and traditions that continue to shape our global community. Families, students, and staff are all welcome to come together in celebration and learning.

Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025

14800 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel MD 20707

Don’t miss this special day of culture, history, and community spirit!

The Quarter 1 Progress Report Grading Period will end on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Please make sure all assignments are submitted on time and reach out to teachers if you have any questions or concerns about grades before the grading period closes. If you have any questions please reach out to Ms. Tarver at rtarver@cmitacademy.org

We will administer the PSAT 8/9 to all 9th graders, and the PSAT/NMSQT to all 10th and 11th graders.

Testing will take place during the week of October 20, 2025. Please be on the lookout for the exact testing date, which will be shared soon. If you have any questions please reach out to Ms. Tarver at rtarver@cmitacademy.org

The ACCUPLACER Test Administration will take place during the month of October 2025.

Please be on the lookout for the exact testing dates and the sign-up sheet, which will be shared soon. If you have any questions please reach out to Ms. Tarver at rtarver@cmitacademy.org

It's HOMECOMING time!

It's HOMECOMING time! Please join us on October 25, 2025 to celebrate CMIT's Haunted Halloween! Tickets are $16 and will cover pizzas, drinks, a haunted hallway experience, and dance experience! Tickets may only be purchased on MySchoolBucks. Please see the attached flyer. Wear your BEST costume!

📅Saturday, September 19, 2025

All students who currently have temporary parking tags must return them by Friday, September 19, 2025 and pick up their official permanent parking stickers.

👉 Stickers must be secured to your vehicle to continue parking on campus. Please stop by Dr. Clarke’s office only during your lunch period or after 3:00 PM to complete this process.

⚠️ After September 19, any vehicle without a permanent parking sticker will be subject to towing.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our campus safe and orderly.

At this stage in our students’ journey, your support means more than anything else. With recent budget cuts facing our district, sustaining the clubs, activities, and enrichment programs that strengthen student learning and development has become more challenging. Yet these opportunities are essential in helping students grow, lead, and thrive beyond the classroom.

We kindly invite you to continue supporting these programs through the QR code below. Or through this link: https://hs.cmitacademy.org/donate/

Parents may also 👉 donate in ways that count as Student Learning Hours, reinforcing the idea that when you give, you are directly investing in your child’s growth. Every act of support makes a difference — helping us bridge the gap and ensure our students continue to access the well-rounded experiences they deserve.

Together, we can rise above these challenges and continue building strong, vibrant programs that shape our students’ success in school and in life. Thank you for standing with us in this important work.

Pre-Service Week was a resounding success as staff came together for professional learning, collaboration, and team building. The week set a strong foundation for the year ahead and energized our school community with focus and purpose.

We were honored by the presence of Mr. Yilmaz Ak, CEO of the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation (CLF), who joined us as a powerful guest speaker. He was accompanied by Ms. Gonul Ozturk, Director of Academics, and Mr. Ashish Vadali, STEM and Outreach Manager, whose attendance reflected CLF’s continued leadership and commitment to CMIT schools.

CLF described CMIT as “a school after the school” — a vision that truly defines who we are. Because of the programs we offer — from rigorous academics to STEM opportunities, clubs, athletics, and leadership development — families and employees alike choose CMIT knowing they are part of something greater than a traditional school. As a choice school for both students and staff, we proudly live up to this standard and look forward to another remarkable year of growth and success.

On Thursday, September 4, CMIT school administrators warmly welcomed parents for a memorable Back-to-School Night. Dr. Gaskins, our Principal, also highlighted distinguished guests from the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation (CLF): Dr. Beverly Donovan, Education Strategy and Communication Manager, and Mrs. Cathyann Andrews, Board Member. Both graciously joined the evening to meet parents and share in the school’s vision for excellence.

The evening featured our teachers as they introduced themselves and shared their plans for the year. Their enthusiasm and dedication set a positive tone for a successful school year, and photos will capture their spirit and connection with families.

Afterschool Programs and Saturday Academy at CMIT North continue to serve as “an extension of the school day, strengthening the core.” These initiatives provide students with opportunities for enrichment, leadership, and skill development beyond regular class hours.

As part of this effort, Dr. Clarke presented updates to teachers, outlining the vision, structure, and goals for this year’s afterschool offerings. The presentation emphasized how these programs build on classroom learning while preparing students for future academic and career pathways.

In addition, the Robotics team showcased their ingenuity by developing a new attendance system. This student-created solution not only improves efficiency but also reflects the creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise that define CMIT’s STEM culture.

Last week, we came around to share a presentation on CMIT North High School’s Code of Conduct. This covered our school policies, procedures, and daily routines. Please take a few minutes to look over the presentation and links so you’re familiar with what’s expected. Rituals and Routines Presentation

A couple of updates to pay attention to:

• The types of binders allowed

• Consequences for Kickboard infractions (all students and parents have been invited to Kickboard)

• Rules about Chromebook bags

Also, don’t forget the Family Resource Guide is a great place to find forms, documents, and to figure out who to go to for certain things. If you have any questions please reach out to Ms. Tarver at rtarver@cmitacademy.org

The Summer STEM Clinic is an important program that combines community service, environmental stewardship, and STEM leadership. Beginning each morning at 7:15 a.m., students supported CMIT’s environmental initiatives by cleaning school grounds, tending the gardens, replanting, removing weeds, and organizing Robotics materials. Those who attended daily earned up to 30 service hours while making a visible difference in our school community.

In the afternoons, STEM Ambassador candidates and Ambassadors prepared competition resources and guided Grade 9 students in discussions about the 29 Science Olympiad events. They also introduced the structure of Team Illusion’s five competition clubs, giving younger students early exposure to teamwork, innovation, and the regulations required to become a STEM Ambassador.

The clinic continues to play a vital role in shaping confident leaders, problem-solvers, and STEM advocates for the year ahead.