WHS Weekly Newsletter
Home of the Lions - May 28, 2021
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Hello Walkersville Community,
Let’s start this newsletter off with a huge congratulations to the Class of 2021! We celebrated with many of our seniors at the awards ceremonies on Thursday, and the event truly highlighted the amazing academic and extra-curricular strengths that this class possesses. It’s just a few short days until we will be in our stadium for graduation. We hope that those in attendance will have an amazing time, but in order for things to go smoothly, I want to remind folks of a few important points:
- In order to park on campus or at the fire hall, you must present tickets to graduation (each student will be given 4 tickets)
- Seniors must be dressed and ready to go inside the school at 8:45
- The gates to the stadium open at 9:00 and will be closed around 9:50 to allow the procession of graduates to begin (tickets are required for every person)
- Everyone in attendance must be seated in the stands or in the track seating (no standing at the fence)
- We ask that everyone put their phones on airplane mode when entering our stadium to allow optimal wifi to stream the graduation for those celebrating at home
- No noise makers are permitted - please hold applause until all names are read so that every senior has their moment
- At the conclusion of graduation, after seniors process out, guests are asked to move towards their vehicles
- Please help us avoid clustering and large crowds, in order to keep everyone safe
- Enjoy this day, we have everything planned out, but it our first time hosting graduation like this. Please be patient and kind and focus all of our positive energy on the students!
Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend, and we look forward to an exciting week ahead!
Dr. Stephanie Ware
Principal
FCPS SURVEY DUE JUNE 4th
FCPS needs your decision on whether your child will attend school next year in person five days per week or enroll in the newly created FCPS Virtual Program*. Your response to the form will be your official decision for your child for the 2021-2022 school year. If you do not submit the form, your child will automatically be enrolled (by default) to attending in person. If you have more than one child enrolled in FCPS, please complete one form per child.
Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SY20212022_ParentDecisionForm
It is important that you carefully review and understand all the details regarding each option. Please contact your child’s school if you have any questions regarding the options.
The form will close at midnight on Friday, June 4.
*Note: The FCPS Virtual Program is a newly created program and will operate differently than the prior virtual learning model. Currently, the FCPS Virtual Program is not available for students enrolled at charter schools.
ATTENDANCE
Parents, guardians and students please be aware of the following updates/changes regarding attendance and dismissal.
- Parent notes/Dr. notes still should be emailed to WHS.Attendance@fcps.org. Please include students full name, grade and reason for absence.
- If a student should bring in a note coming in during their Cohort day, please drop off in the front office with the Attendance Secretary.
- As no guests are permitted in the building at this time, parents should come to the main entrance when picking up for early dismissals. We will verify ID at the door and students will be sent out to the car.
COUNSELING NEWS
After a challenging year for families and students, the Counseling Office is anticipating the various ways that we can help and support students as they return full-time to the building next year. In addition to next year's 9th graders, WHS will have a large group of 10th graders who haven't yet experienced a "regular" school day in the building. We know that students will need a lot of support from us as they adjust to our new normal moving forward. One way we have decided to meet student needs for next year is to designate one counselor - Ryan Defibaugh - as a 9th grade counselor. This will help us provide more support and targeted programs for our younger students, while allowing the remaining counselors to concentrate on the academic needs and future plans of our older students. Next year's counselor caseloads will be as follows:
- Ryan Defibaugh, 9th grade, A-Z
- Lauren Bishard, 10th-12th grade, A-F
- Susan Nash, 10th-12th grade, G-M
- Shannon Marble, 10th-12th grade, N-Z
- Brittany Kuhn, Pyramid & Learning for Life Programs
- New Counselor, English Language Learners
MESSAGE FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE
Walkersville High School continues to be committed to helping our students and their families during Covid-19. We understand these changes have brought on challenges. Please reach out to Kari Shipe directly in our Counseling center for more information about programs and resources that may be available for your family.
Kari Shipe, Counseling Center Secretary
240-236-7209
Counselors can be reached by email or Schoology message for those students still learning virtually – a virtual meeting can be set up if necessary. Students who will be attending school in person on the hybrid model can request to see their counselor by seeing our secretary, Kari Shipe, in the Counseling Office to set up an appointment.
Please click on the link below for more IMPORTANT information from the Counseling Center - UPDATED MAY 2021
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uA7PAs0IsMeOD4AStZJQg7wpC7j9HgoM/view?usp=sharing
MOVING / NEED TRANSFER PAPERWORK?
If you will be moving over the summer and your child will not be attending Walkersville High School next year, please contact Mrs. Meyer in the Counseling Center at deanna.meyer@fcps.org before Monday, June 7th, to allow ample time to get transfer information together. All schools require specific information from the transferring school prior to enrollment. Please provide Mrs. Meyer with your new address, if known, and the name of the school your child will be attending during the 2021-2022 school year.
FCPS VIRTUAL SUMMER SESSION
FCPS Frederick County Virtual School (FCVS) provides online courses for high school credit during the summer
Virtual School Summer Session (VSS)
- VSS is a five week program designed for independent and self-motivated learners.
- Students enroll in an online course and attend weekly Google Meets with their teacher.
- Students will need to commit to 15-20 hours/week of independent work.
- Students will need reliable and consistent access to a device and high-speed internet.
- Students must be enrolled with FCPS and entering 9th-12th grade in the fall of 2021.
Click here for registration information. To access the correct registration packet:
- See "High School Students" or "8th Grade Students" (based on your current level) to access the correct pre-registration packet.
Deadline to pre-register: completed forms must be turned in to your school counselor by 3:00 pm on Thursday, June 17. Do not delay! Enrollment is limited.
MESSAGE FROM CTE
Joke of the Week - brought to you by CTE
Question: Why are firefighters so positive?
CTE Courses Highlight - INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR RISING SENIORS
For the next school year, the Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services is offering internships to high school seniors that are at least 16 years old and a current member of a volunteer fire/rescue company. The internship is every day from 12 - 3pm at the Frederick County Public Safety Facility in Frederick. If you qualify, you would take 2 classes at school then leave to attend your internship. Upon completion of the program you will have 12 credit hours at FCC and will have met both State and National certifications in order to provide emergency services in the community.
For more information, contact: Mrs. Fogle at kim.fogle@fcps.org
Answer: Because they always look at the bright side of things!!!!
MARCHING LIONS - MUSIC
The 2021 Marching Lions will be having their interest meeting on Tuesday, June 1st at 7pm, outside the music room. All rising 9th through 12th graders, as well as their parents/guardians are encouraged to attend.
Mr. Loy will be reviewing the schedule, revealing the show, and introducing student leadership and staff.
All students who play/learn a woodwind or brass instrument are encouraged to consider marching band. Percussionists, drum kit players, piano players, guitarists, and bassists are encouraged to consider joining our drum line or front ensemble percussion section. We are also looking for students to consider color guard, a group of students who perform with flags and other equipment, and add a visual flair to our show. No dance or musical experience is required.
Join the growing musical family at WHS and get involved!
Important dates:
Tuesday, June 1st: Interest Meeting - 7 pm
Saturday, June 5th: First mini camp rehearsal - 10 am to 4 pm
July 26th - 30th: Week one of Band Camp
August 2nd - 6th: Week two of Band Camp
WHS SPORTS NEWS!
WHS Boys Lacrosse team will be collecting Mac & Cheese donations for Blessings in a Backpack.
Collection Dates: June 1st - 9th
Collection Locations: Front Office or Boys (home) Lacrosse games
https://frederick.blessingsinabackpack.org/
Don’t forget to complete your COVID check in prior to arrival at Spring practices.
Check out when our Lions will be competing by clicking HERE to access our Sports Calendar!
SPECTATORS AT ATHLETIC EVENTS
FCPS is excited to welcome limited spectators to all athletic competitions. Admittance to all athletic events is limited to four guests per student-athlete. Please know that some athletic competitions are held off campus, and FCPS will respect and follow all guidelines set forth by those organizations and venues, which may include no spectator policies.
In order to provide the safest environment for all to enjoy the athletic contests, face coverings must be properly worn (fully cover mouth and nose) and social distancing must be practiced at all times when on school grounds, inside and outside, and at all competitions held off FCPS campuses.
Admittance to athletic events will begin 30 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time. Outside food and beverages are prohibited, and concession sales will not be available.
It is FCPS' hope that everyone will abide by these guidelines and enjoy watching our student-athletes compete in the safest manner possible. Failure to comply with FCPS spectator protocols (including properly wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing) will result in the suspension of spectator attendance at athletic competitions.
WHS PTSA ANNOUNCEMENTS
It is not too late to get a Yard Sign to celebrate your Senior!!! Yard Signs are now available for purchase in the WHS front office during the week. You can stop by during normal office hours to get one. Remember to bring $10.00 cash or a check made out to the WHS PTSA.
We will have yards signs available outside the stadium gates after graduation practice on 6/2 and graduation on 6/3.
For students that were given yard signs in good faith, please don’t forget payment is needed. All profits received from this fundraiser go directly into the PTSA Senior scholarship fund. We sincerely thank you for your support!! Please contact Kimberly Snyder at WHSLionsPTSA@gmail.com with any questions.
PTSA Scholarship Announcement
We are excited to announce that ten seniors received “You’ve Made Your Mark” scholarships on May 27th at the awards ceremony. The combined total of $3,200.00 was awarded to seniors that made a positive impression on the Walkersville community. Congratulations to the following Seniors:
- Emily Cook
- Sean Flegel
- Samantha Foster
- Avery Kops
- Daniel Mildenstein
- Maggie Molnar
- Shelby Ott
- Grace Stambaugh
- Rachel Thomas
- Janey Wells
Website: http://WalkersvilleHighSchool.my-ptsa.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WHS-PTSA-416541538545335
Email: WHSLionsPTSA@gmail.com
SAFE & SOUND GRADUATION - LAST DAY TO SIGN UP!!
The WHS Committee for a Safe & Sound Graduation is working hard in planning the after-graduation celebration for the Class of 2021. It is our goal to provide a fun night for the graduating Seniors in a safe environment that is alcohol and drug free. The party is planned for June 3, 2021 at Adventure Park beginning at 11:00 pm. (Doors will be locked and the Graduates will stay safe inside until 4:30 am on June 4th). Transportation will be provided.
All Seniors must be pre-registered for the event. Please register using one of the methods included on the form attached, including a payment of $50.00 as soon as possible. By doing so, you will help raise a portion of the funds necessary to secure vendors and entertainment.
No registrations will be accepted after May 28, 2021. If, for ANY reason, this event is cancelled, you will be fully reimbursed for the amount you paid.
REGISTER NOW before it's too late!!! Three ways to Register…
- Register ONLINE at http://WalkersvilleHighSchool.my-ptsa.org
- Mail in Registration form and Fee to: WHS Safe and Sound, PO Box 183, Walkersville, MD 21793
- Drop your Registration form and fee to the WHS front office in an envelope marked Safe and Sound.
If you have any questions, please contact the Safe & Sound committee at: safeandsoundwhs@gmail.com.
Click here for registration form or pick up one from the board by the office.
Thank you for your support! Join us on Facebook at WHS Safe and Sound;
Twitter @WHSsafeandsound
Support Safe & Sound
Beautification Fund
EMPOWERED TO LIVE
This program is for rising high school juniors and seniors.
Exciting News! A New Job Training Program Is Coming to Frederick County!
Empowered to Live, Inc.’s premier program, Project GUIDE is moving forward with a partnership with Frederick Community College. Project GUIDE is a 14-week pre-apprenticeship program that offers youth ages 16-24 job readiness and technical skills training and paid internship opportunities with local businesses in the construction and skilled trades industry.
Apply Here: https://www.empoweredtolive.org/apply
Application Deadline: June 2, 2021
Interviews: Rolling basis until all spots are filled!
Program Start Date: June 14, 2021
Space is limited, so APPLY TODAY!
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
Effective Wednesday, May 19, the schedule for to-go meal service at all 19 FCPS schools open to the community will change to WEDNESDAYS - ONLY from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The two community drop-off sites in the 7th Street and Discovery shopping centers will continue to serve meals to children in the community on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. We will continue to offer breakfast, lunch and supper at all schools to students who attend school Monday through Friday for the remainder of the school year.
Contact FCPS Food and Nutrition Services at 301-644-5061 with questions or visit: www.fcpsnutrition.com for the list of schools open to the community.
MVA LEARNER'S PERMIT
MVA DL-300A Learner’s Permit Verification of School Attendance Form: The MVA has a new form (DL-300A) due to the recent executive order by Governor Hogan and schools temporarily no longer needs to sign/seal the form – it is signed by the student and the parent only. You can find the form on our Walkersville High website under "Attendance" and via this link to the MVA. https://mva.maryland.gov/Documents/DL-300A.pdf
STUDENT MASK COMPLIANCE
This is just a reminder in case you have forgotten to complete the form or were not able to complete the original form.
Please read the linked document below. At the end of the form, you will need to type your name as acceptance that you and your students agree. If you have more than one child at WHS, please complete one form and list all of your students on the same form. Student Mask Compliance Form
Thank you and please direct any questions to cynthia.zimmerman@fcps.org or 240-236-7206.
HOW POSITIVE COVID-19 CASES ARE COMMUNICATED
Important Definitions: Confirmed Case of COVID-19 - Cases of COVID-19 that are lab confirmed positive results of a PCR test. Probable Case of COVID-19 - COVID-19-like symptomatic individual who has had close contact with another individual with a laboratory confirmed positive result within the past 14 days. Close Contact - Close and prolonged contact within 6 feet of a cumulative 15 minutes in a 24 hour period. Confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19 in the school prompt a case investigation to determine if anyone has been in close contact with the confirmed or probable case of COVID-19. A joint effort between FCPS administrators and the Frederick County Health Department identifies all close contacts. All close contacts are contacted individually and advised to quarantine at home, monitor their health, and to contact their healthcare provider for any health concerns.
The health and safety of our community is our highest priority. Walkersville High School follows all COVID-19 related health and safety guidelines, including requiring face coverings for staff and students, encouraging frequent hand washing, maintaining social distance, and following all cleaning and disinfection protocols. The FCPS Health Metrics Dashboard reports the number of positive COVID-19 cases for staff and students that are in-person attendance at all FCPS schools. The cases are reported two different ways: (1) total number for all of FCPS; and (2) by each school. The dashboard is updated every Monday morning to report the number of cases from the previous week.
NEED SUPPORT - HAVE A QUESTION OR CONCERN?
We are here to support you! Do you have a question, but not sure who to ask? What do you need assistance with? Just complete the form linked here and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. https://forms.gle/bndJpvxzbCEuwrgC7
QUICK REMINDERS
May 28th: Last day to register for Safe & Sound
May 31st: Memorial Day NO School
June 1st: Graduation Practice at 1:00
June 1st: Seniors return books & Chromebooks
June 2nd: Graduation Practice 8:00 - 1:00
June 3rd: Senior Graduation 10:00am
June 4th: Deadline for 21-22 SY Survey
June 9th: WHS Chipotle Night 4-8pm
June 17th: Last day of school for students
Walkersville High School
Office Hours: 7:00am - 3:00pm
Email: maryanne.allen@fcps.org
Website: https://education.fcps.org/whs/
Location: 81 West Frederick Street, Walkersville, MD, USA
Phone: 240-236-7200
Twitter: @DrWare_FCPS