Northwest News
Mr. Smith's Newsletter for the Northwest Community
Sunday, October 22, 2023
NEW: This Week's Message from Mr. Smith
Northwest High School Families,
I hope everyone is warm on this fall Sunday evening. We have a busy week ahead with an important Hispanic/Latine Celebration for families this Tuesday evening, regular season fall athletics are coming to an end, and this is the last full week of marking period one (1). Students, be sure to communicate with your teachers for help and take advantage of lunchtime to retake eligible assessments. Finish strong!
Our building's air conditioning has been converted to heat so while it is more mild outside, it can be quite warm inside so be sure to dress accordingly. We will continue to work with MCPS' maintenance to regulate temperatures.
Interested in donating to our community? Click this link to support any of our families in need.
Students at Northwest High School will be registering online for the 2023-2024 AP exams. This registration will take a few minutes and can be completed from any computer with internet access. Students will complete the registration process in their AP courses.
Online Exam Registration will continue through Monday, November 6th, 2023. This year the cost of AP exams will be paid for by MCPS. Please read this letter for more information. Contact our AP coordinator, Ms. McClintock (amy_m_mcclintock@mcpsmd.org) with any questions.
NW HS in partnership with the MD Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration will be administering the Maryland Learners Permit Test at Northwest HS on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 2:30 pm. Any student interested in taking the test must be at least 15 years & 9 month of age or older. Students can pick up the permission slip in the main office and must be returned to the main office by Friday, November 10th by 1:00pm.
We are continuing with hall sweeps. While we will start off warning students who are in the hallway after the tardy bell rings, we expect that every student is prioritizing their timely arrival to each class. Starting in November, we will begin assigning detentions to those students who are late. Remember, the point of hall sweeps is to maintain the high level of importance with arriving to class on time, and prioritizing learning leading to high academic achievement.
In this week's newsletter, you can find new and important items such as an opportunity for seniors to get help on college applications, SGA's upcoming costume contest, the fall fest on the afternoon of October 31, the annual holiday giving project, our upcoming Mental Health Awareness Week happenings, College and Career Updates, an important informational meeting for 9th grade families, Maryland's Seal of Biliteracy reminders, MSP's upcoming community get-together, this week's Walk & Bike to School Day, things to know from MCPS for Thursday, October 19, an opportunity for NW students to volunteer at Longview's Trunk or Treat events, MC's upcoming Harvest Fest, and the athletics and events calendar for the week.
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Amharic]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Chinese]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [French]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Korean]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Portuguese]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Spanish]
Remind Quick Guides for Parents [Vietnamese],
There are some important reminders including information MCPS' Pathway to College and Career Readiness, our canned food drive, the Speak Up, Save a Life Video Contest, this week's Celebration of Belonging for Hispanic Heritage Month, PTSA's call for Silent Auction Donations yearbook information, a call for free store donations, parking permit information, ways to join the PTSA and Booster Clubs, a call to support our Booster Club, the face coverings policy in effect, a call for parents to join our parent councils, College T-Shirt Tuesdays, and ways to buy Class spirit gear!
We thank you for your continued support and trust. Let's make it a great week!
NEW: Holiday Giving Project
Each year the Holiday Giving Project of Montgomery County provides food at Thanksgiving and food and gifts for the December holidays to low-income households. The Holiday Giving Project Coalition coordinates this seasonal program in conjunction with a variety of religious, business and nonprofit organizations. Families can be referred by School Counselors. Contact your student’s counselor if you are interested in receiving these services. The deadline for requesting services for Thanksgiving is October 26th, 2023. The deadline for requesting services for the December Holidays is November 20th, 2023. While a referral is not a guarantee of assistance, the Project helps as many families in need as donations allow. Please contact your student’s School Counselor if you have any questions.
NEW: College and Career Updates!
COLLEGE CAREER Community e-NEWS BULLETIN HIGHLIGHTS: View the complete e-NEWS Bulletin on the college career web page and click on the e-NEWS link for all details. For details on all college career information and resources, visit the college career webpage. Questions? Reach out to Rochelle_Davis@mcpsmd.org
Attention seniors applying to MC! It’s time to complete the online application!
NEW! MC will host an Info Session @ Northwest on November 8 @ 10 AM.
Register in Naviance to attend!
NEW! Attention Class of 2026 - Calling Sophomores!
Be A Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Ambassador for Northwest High School! Represent your high school this spring on the campus of Towson University. HOBY is open to sophomores who are potential leaders in their school and communities. Northwest will send one current sophomore for the 2024 event (student provides transportation to and from Towson U.) The event is scheduled to take place June 6-9. Interested? Complete the Ambassador Request Form HERE before November 6. Learn more about HOBY at www.hoby.org. | Post 13 October 2023 |
NEW! Admissions Events @ Northwest High School!
York College of PA Instant Decision Interviews on Thursday, October 26 after 1 pm. Register to participate HERE before Wednesday, October 25.
Students who elect to apply to York College of PA as Test Optional may need to submit an essay and recommendations as a follow up to the event.
Salisbury University Admissions Interviews on Monday, November 27 @ 9:30 am. Application to Salisbury required prior to November 24. Register to participate HERE before Tuesday, November 21.
NEW! CARSON SCHOLARS PROGRAM $1,000 scholarship opportunity for students in grades 9, 10 & 11. One nomination by high school. Students requesting nomination must have a cumulative GPA of 3.75 and community service above and beyond what is required. Applicants must be able to demonstrate strong humanitarian qualities. Use this form to request nomination by November 15.
The student selected to move forward in the competition will complete an online Carson Scholars application that will include an essay and teacher recommendation.
Money Matters → Scholarship Highlights & Reminders:
For a complete list of scholarships, including details for those listed below, download the latest publication of our Jag Scholarships ‘Apply Now’ Bulletin on the web. Post date refers to the first date published in the Jag Scholarships ‘Apply Now’ Bulletin. Additional Northwest High School Scholarship Resource (PDF format).
NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: BigSun. $500. Available to all SENIOR student athletes, regardless of which sport they are participating in or what their capacity in that sport is. The successful applicant will be a high school senior or be attending a post-secondary institute and currently involved in some sport at that institution or in the community. DEADLINE TO APPLY: JUNE 19 | Post 19 October 2023 |
NEW opportunities published in the Jag Scholarships ‘Apply Now’ Bulletin on the web.
College Career Calendar → High School Visits:
- Towson University @ 10:30 am on Monday, October 23
- Shippensburg University of PA @ 1 pm on Monday, October 23
- St. John’s College @ 8:30 am on Tuesday, October 24
- St. John’s University, New York @ 9:30 on Tuesday, October 24
- Trinity Washington University @ 10:30 am on Tuesday, October 24
- Allegany College of Maryland @ 10 am on Wednesday, October 25
- University of South Florida @ 8:30 am on Thursday, October 26
- Stevenson University @ 10:30 am on Thursday, October 26
- ***York College of PA @ 1 pm on Thursday, October 26***
*** REMINDER! York College of PA will be offering on-site admissions after their visit on Thursday, October 26. To participate, please complete this Google form before October 25.
Remember:
- Students register for all high school college career visits through their Naviance account.
- Once a student is registered for a visit an email is sent to the student’s mcpsmd.net account.
- This email should be shown to teachers requesting permission to attend (print or on your electronic device). Students should request to leave their current class AND let the teacher know they may be late to the class they will return to. Visits are scheduled based on the availability of our admissions representatives and not necessarily based on our class schedules.
- When attending a visit, students scan a QR-Code linked to a Google form for attendance. This form lists the student’s information, the visit information, and the period teachers (from and to). This information goes directly to the attendance office.
If there is ever a question or concern, please reach out to: Rochelle_Davis@mcpsmd.org.
NEW: IMPORTANT for 9th Grade Families
The Office of Curriculum and Instructional Programs will have a virtual parent/caregiver Q&A session on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6:00 p.m. to share information and answer any questions on the recently approved End of Course exams for ninth grade students.
On July 25, 2023, the Maryland State Board of Education adopted changes to the Code of Maryland Regulations 13a.03.02 Graduation Requirements for High Schools in Maryland. Beginning with the 2023-2024 school year for ninth grade students (Class of 2027), the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) End of Course (EOC) exams for life science and government will count as 20 percent of the student’s final grade in the respective high school level biology and government courses (NSL).
This Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document provides answers to questions related to the implementation of the MCAP End of Course exams for high schools.
Virtual Q&A Session
Date: Oct. 24 at 6 p.m.
NEW: Things to know from MCPS for Thursday, October 19
1. Upcoming Operating Budget Forums on Oct.19, Oct. 25 and Nov. 14
MCPS is hosting a series of forums to learn more about the process for the 2024–2025 operating budget. Join us for a discussion with MCPS leadership and an opportunity to engage in breakout sessions. Events will be held on the following dates:
TONIGHT, Thursday, Oct. 19, 6:30–8 p.m., virtual forum. Click here to attend. This event will be livestreamed on the MCPS homepage. RSVP.
Wednesday, Oct. 25, 6:30–8 p.m., Damascus High School, 25921 Ridge Road in Damascus. RSVP.
Tuesday, Nov. 14, time to be determined, Walter Johnson High School, 6400 Rock Spring Drive in Bethesda. RSVP.
2. Applications for High School Regional/Countywide Special Programs
Grade 8 students can apply to Regional/Countywide Special Programs using the high school common application found in ParentVUE. Additionally, students in Grades 9-11 may apply for career readiness programs. Information sessions will be available for students and families, and all dates can be found on the special programs webpage.
Applications are due by Friday, Nov. 3. Programs-At-A-Glance, eligibility, frequently asked questions and October open house dates are available on this website.
NEW this year: The Leadership Academy for Social Justice (LASJ) at Walt Whitman High School is open to all rising 9th graders. Watch the video.
3. Board Seeks Public Comments on Policy IJA
The Board of Education is seeking comments on proposed amendments to Policy IJA, School Counseling Programs and Services. Draft amendments to Policy IJA have been available for comment since April 26, 2023, and the comment period will close on Nov. 6, 2023. A description of the changes, draft changes and public comment forms are available on the Policies for Public Comment webpage. Language translations are available.
4. District Events and Opportunities
On Saturday, Oct. 21:
The STEAM Festival will be held from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wheaton High School, 12401 Dalewood Drive in Silver Spring.
The Girls’ Summit will be held from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at Clarksburg High School, 22500 Wims Road in Clarksburg. RSVP
Col. Zadok Magruder High School is hosting the Marching Band Showcase at 1 p.m., 5939 Muncaster Mill Road in Rockville. PLEASE NOTE: In case of inclement weather, a message will be posted on the MCPS website by 9:30 a.m. if the event is canceled.
Mental Health Awareness Week Oct. 30–Nov. 4
From 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Richard Montgomery High School, former professional football player turned mental health expert and advocate, Dr. Jay Barnett, will speak to students about the importance of mental health, breaking down stigma and seeking help. Students who attend can earn SSL Hours. Read more about Mental Health Awareness Week events.
- Out-of-School Time, Earn SSL Hours
Calling high school students: Join Us Nov. 1 for Environmental Volunteer Day at Gaithersburg High School, 101 Education Blvd. in Gaithersburg.
County Student Contests, Earn SSL Hours
A chance to win $1,000: Speak Up, Save a Life PSA Contest
Know a Student Interested in Public Policy? Enter the Councilmember for a Day Contest
5. Bright Spots this Week
October is National Principals Month. Thank you to all principals for all they do for students, staff, teachers, and school communities. Congratulations to Mrs. Barbara Escobar, principal at Neelsville Middle School. Escobar recently received the Hispanic Educator of the Year at the Hispanic Leadership Awards Gala. The Latina Legacy Conference brought together more than 300 scholars to learn about opportunities and resources to succeed in their academic and personal lives. Families, MCPS alumni and community members came together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Outdoor Environmental Education Programs. These programs provide hands-on science instruction to all MCPS students.
Montgomery County Public Schools
NEW: Athletics Schedule for the Week of Monday, October 23 - Sunday, October 29
MCPS Pathways to College and Career Readiness
REMINDER: Canned Food Drive
Northwest High School’s Key Club is initiating our yearly canned food drive. Food is a human right and is an immediate and tangible way to help someone. Every donation of food matters- which is why we are asking for your help on voicing our event.
The canned food drive will take place during all of October and November. Each classroom will have their designated box/bag and students are expected to bring non perishable, canned items and drop them off in their first period class. Some examples include canned soups, canned beans, canned fruit, powdered milk, and canned peanut butter. Last year, we came in third place based on the amount of cans collected out of all the Montgomery County Public Schools. Nonetheless, this year we are striving for first place!
REMINDER: Speak Up, Save a Life Video Contest - 10 SSL Hours
Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office of Montgomery County is hosting a contest that challenges teens to create an original video to promote awareness of the dangers of opioid abuse or overdose and fentanyl among teens. It is open to all 6th thru 12th grade students living in Montgomery County. Top prize is $1,000, second place is $750, third place and fan favorite winners will receive $500 all donated by Magnolia Plumbing in honor of two young Montgomery County residents who lost to their lives to illicit fentanyl; Michael Pisarra and Matthew Loudoun.
Students can enter the contest on their own or as a group; however, students may only participate in ONE entry. If a student in any way participates in more than one PSA video, all of those entries will be disqualified. Please see instructions for submitting video here.
REMINDER: Yearbook Sale Information
We have a community upload spot for candids. Please upload any pics of your student(s) that may end up as features in the yearbook. Please add names and grades.
Pick up your 2023 yearbook supplement that features spring sports, graduation, prom, spring musical. If you purchased a yearbook, these are included in the price. Pick up in 250 or 261 before school, during lunch, after school until 2:45. Ask for Ms Koutsos.
The 2024 yearbook is available for purchase.
The first sale price is $90
The 2nd sale price is $95
Then the rest are $100
$105 in person at distribution
Senior only can purchase ad space in the back of the book. Personalized ad space is available for sale. And baby pics/quotes space can be purchased for a community page.
REMINDER: Free Store Supplies are in Demand!
Many NW students visit The Free Store daily. Because of high demand, the Free Store has run out of composition books and spiral notebooks! If you have any gently used, no longer needed school supplies, please donate them to the Free Store, room 264. We also always need calculators, backpacks, and test prep books. We take donations all year long. We will also be collecting donations during Back to School Night. Thank you, NW community, for your support!
REMINDER: Parking Permit Information
Parking permit applications and payment will be accepted by the Business Office, Room 322, before school (7:25–7:40 a.m.), during lunch (11:11–11:56 a.m.), or after school (2:30–2:45 p.m.). Students must not have any outstanding financial obligations to the school and must be academically eligible (2.0 cumulative GPA with no more than one E) to be eligible for a parking permit. The price for a full year parking permit is $78.00 (processing fee included) payable by cash, check (made out to Northwest High School), or online using a credit card through SchoolCash Online. To pay online, a link will be sent to the student’s school email once the application has been received and approved for eligibility.
During the first three weeks of school (August 28-September 15), students may use any parking space in the lower parking lot. All approved parking permits will be distributed to students before school, during lunch, or after school in front of the Business Office, Room 322, on September 14 and 15. Beginning Monday, September 18, all cars driven by students must display a valid 2023-2024 parking permit and be parked in the student’s assigned space. Cars that are parked in the incorrect space or that do not have a valid parking permit may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense.
REMINDER: Join the PTSA and Boosters!
The PTSA and Booster Club are instrumental in providing the school with advocacy, outreach, financial support, and building school spirit for our students, staff, and community. In order for us to be able to support these ongoing efforts, we need our families and staff to join us now! You can join at nwhsptsa.org/membership. Thank you!
REMINDER: NWHS Boosters need your Help!
Are you Ready for FALL Sports? YES! YES! YES!
The NW Athletic Department and the Booster Club want to provide our athletes and fans an awesome experience at each and every home game. To make that happen, we need your help to VOLUNTEER at the concessions stand. Parent and community member support is crucial to have a successful year! If we do not have volunteers, we will not be able to open the concessions stand.
Pick a slot or two or three...because WE NEED YOU! Click here to sign up.
There are multiple sports events to choose from. We want you to watch your athletes compete so please come help at other games so those parents can watch their athletes. Don't have a child playing a sport? Come out anyway. It's a great way to connect with other NWHS parents! Remember, concessions volunteers get into the games for free and all proceeds go directly toward supporting all of our students! Please put the sport/club you represent in the Comment section!
Thank you from your 2023-2024 Concessions Committee!
REMINDER: Face Coverings Policy is in Effect!
For the safety of our school environment, face coverings may be worn indoors only for health, religious and/or cultural purposes. When used for health protection or to prevent disease transmission, acceptable and effective face coverings are well fitting surgical masks, KN95-style masks or N95 respirators. With the exception of face coverings worn for
religious or cultural purposes, individuals will be asked to remove other types of face coverings (such as a ski mask, neck gaiter, or scarf over one’s face). If the alternate face covering is worn for health purposes, NWHS will provide surgical masks for student, staff or visitor use. If a face covering is needed at school for health purposes, NWHS will provide surgical masks for students, staff or visitors who do not already have access to one at school.
REMINDER: Northwest Parents' Councils Questionnaire
We hope that you and your family will join us for future events and that you will consider becoming a part of the Northwest Hispanic Parent Council, African American Parent Council and the Asian American Parent Council. Please take some time to respond to this questionnaire and let us know how you would like to become involved. This questionnaire has been translated into Spanish.*
Please contact the following administrators for more information about the Hispanic, African American, and Asian Parent Councils at Northwest High School.
Hispanic Parent Council: Nyurka_I_Morales@mcpsmd.org
African American Parent Council: Tara-dee_S_Henry@mcpsmd.org
Asian American Parent Council: Danielle_M_Abdelsalam@mcpsmd.org
Northwest Class Spirit!
It's a long-standing tradition at Northwest for each grade to wear their assigned CLASS COLOR on Pep Rally days! Each class sits in a designated section at the rallies so make an impact for YOUR CLASS by wearing your grade level color and make your presence known! Although participation with wearing class colors is optional, we hope you will join in the FUN!
The grade level colors are as follows:
Freshmen (Grade 9): YELLOW
Sophomores (Grade 10): GREEN
Juniors (Grade 11): RED
Seniors (Grade 12): BLUE
You can wear any clothing and/or accessories in your assigned color as long as you adhere to the school dress code. You can opt to wear clothing that you already own in your grade level color, you can purchase a shirt from the PTSA/Booster Club website for $8: http://www.nwhsptsa.org/shop (available sizes and quantities are limited), or you can purchase a T-shirt in your color at Michael's or Joanne's (the cost is usually around $5) and personalize with fabric markers or paint pens! The possibilities are endless to show your #JagPride!
Class of 2027 (9th Grade): Yellow
Class of 2026 (10th Grade): Green
Class of 2025 (11th Grade): Red
Class of 2024 (12th Grade): Blue
Northwest High School
Email: Scott_E_Smith@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://northwestjags.org
Location: 13501 Richter Farm Road, Germantown, MD, USA
Phone: (240)740-7100
Twitter: @NorthwestJags