Northwest News
Mr. Smith's Newsletter for the Northwest Community
Sunday, March 3, 2024
NEW: A Message from Mr. Smith
Northwest High School Families,
I hope everyone is having a great weekend, and a great start to Women's History Month! It looks to be not as cold this week but with several days of rain. Be sure to dress accordingly! A special shout-out to all of our winter athletes who most recently completed their post-season runs. There are too many specific students to congratulate so I want to take this time to say, Congratulations to all of you! We are looking forward to the spring athletics season that has just begun.
Attention Parents! While there has been many messages about the changes to grading for the second semester, it is important that we highlight those changes. You can find the complete community guidance on our grading and reporting guidelines linked here. Be sure to reach out to your child's administrator with any questions.
On April 2nd through April 8th, all students will participate in the Maryland State School Survey. Please take a moment to review the linked letter which provides detailed information about the survey and any additional questions you may have. Please contact Ms. Tara Henry or Ms. Nikki Morales, the administrators over the survey, for any additional information.
NWHS in partnership with the MD Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration will be administering the Maryland Learners Permit Test at Northwest HS on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 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 starting Monday, March 4th and it must be returned to the main office by Friday, March 9, by 1:30 pm.
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
Looking for a Summer Job? There is a job fair on Saturday, March 9, 3 – 5:30 p.m. at Germantown Community Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Road, Germantown for those interested in finding out more.
Attention Parents! Booster Club needs your help with concessions for our athletic events. Please sign up using this link.
A reminder that our TENTATIVE Graduation date is Thursday, June 6 at 9:00 am at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). Mark your calendars.
Yearbook Pictures are available for purchase. Please visit: vosphoto.com/uc use your student ID when prompted for the online code. For questions regarding school pictures, please email: underclass@vosphoto.com
Hall Sweeps are continuing and if a student is caught in a hall sweep more than once, they will be assigned an after-school detention. Prioritize regular, prompt attendance to all classes.
Interested in donating to our community? Click this link to support any of our families in need.
In this week's newsletter, you can find new and important items such as the PTSA/Booster Club scholarship opportunities for all graduating seniors, an opportunity for those interested in Computer Science, the Great Book Giveaway, this week's College and Career Updates, the annual pre-college fair at Wootton High School, the College Fair field trip for the Class of 2025 on March 19, the coast guard open house in April, and things to know from MCPS for Thursday, February 29.
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 regarding SAT School Day information for our Class of 2025, the annual Prom Dress Giveaway, an opportunity to learn about job opportunities on April 10, the purchasing of yard signs for your Class of 2024 senior, an important survey from MCPS for families, the upcoming PTSA and Booster Club sponsored 5k, the free store, a way to support the SGA through fundraising, the MSP Intra-county Retreat in March, the advertisement for the spring musical, Mean Girls, MCPS' Girls Summit in March, second semester parking, our tentative graduation date for the Class of 2024, school cash online, Yearbook sales information, ways to join the PTSA and Booster Clubs, 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: Are you interested in Computer Science?
Getting an internship prior to entering the full-time job market is amongst the most beneficial things you can do to advance your career. Abhi Mukherjee has been fortunate enough to receive offers from companies such as Meta, Capital One, Comcast, Deloitte, PwC, E.Y. and more. With the job market becoming more competitive–a problem that will only continue to get worse as time progresses–it is imperative that applicants know how to stand out. This Spring, Abhi will be holding a 10-week program on how to successfully recruit. There will be sessions ranging from technical interview prep, networking, behavioral interviews, and more. If you are interested, you can find more information here.
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. Publication date: 03/01/2024. For details on all college career information and resources, visit the college career webpage. Questions? Reach out to Rochelle_Davis@mcpsmd.org
REMINDER! Access Permission Form @ https://bit.ly/3SOcprm
NEW! FAFSA in Spanish! Thursday, April 4th from 6-7pm. Priscyla Aguilar-Villatoro from Montgomery College will be presenting information via Zoom, to our Hispanic families about FASFA, application process, how to apply, and much more.
Zoom link | Meeting Passcode: 003403
NEW! Virtual Resume, LinkedIn, and Interview Strategies Workshop. Thursday, March 14 from 4 pm until 6:30 pm. Only a few slots remain open to attend! Register NOW!
STUDENTS!
Would you like your resume to stand out?
Do you need help building your LinkedIn profile?
Are you acing your interviews?
Register to attend our Virtual Resume, LinkedIn, and Interview Strategies Workshop in collaboration with Salesforces! Questions? Please contact Ms. Romero regarding any questions at Lisa_D_Romero@mcpsmd.org or 240-740-3670.
NEW! ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND PARENTS ARE INVITED TO EXPLORE POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS IN THE SERVICES & TRADE FIELDS! James Hubert Blake High School on Thursday, March 21 from 6:30 until 8 pm. No registration required. Questions? Contact Cynthia Gleason at cynthia_m_gleason@mcpsmd.org
REMINDER! The Black Engineers Society is hosting a Shadow Day at University of Maryland College Park, where prospective students have the chance to experience a typical day at our school by shadowing one of our current students.
March 6, 2024. During Shadow Day, participants will attend classes, interact with professors, engage in campus activities, and get a firsthand feel for the atmosphere here at UMD! It's an excellent opportunity for prospective students to envision themselves at college. We encourage high school students to take advantage of this event. Register to attend @ https://forms.gle/YRUnN8KEYpJpMoJh6.
REMINDER! Third Annual Pre-College Fair. March 14 from 6 pm until 8 pm. Thomas S. Wootton High School. Representatives from pre-college programs at Brown, Columbia, Duke, Georgetown, George Washington, Hopkins, and more are coming to our backyard to connect with MCPS families. These colleges offer summer programs in medicine, sports management, business, law, engineering, and other areas of study. Some programs offer scholarships as well. Registration is required by March 11 using this link.
REMINDER! SAVE THE DATE. April 17 at 6:30 pm. Virtual Financial Aid Information Night for the Class of 2024 - After the FAFSA. Register HERE.| Post 9 February 2024 |
REMINDER! SAVE THE DATE. Coast Guard Open House. April 13 from 11:00 am until 2 pm. Recruiting Office Baltimore., 6499 Baltimore National Pike, Catonsville, MD 21228. | Post 9 February 2024 |
MCPS Out of School Time has partnered up with Grow Your Own to offer students an amazing opportunity on April 10th to attend a Grow Your Own Career Fair with community partners. This is the perfect time for students to learn about job applications, interviewing, and possibly get an interview on the spot. Register for this event HERE.
State Financial Aid Priority Deadline is Extended to May 15, 2024
The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) has extended the priority deadline to submit the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the MHEC One-App for undocumented students from March 15 to May 15, 2024.
Students who complete and submit their FAFSA or MHEC One-App by the priority deadline are included in the initial round of awards in June of 2024.
The awarding for 2024-2025 academic year will not begin until June of 2024. If applicable, students will have until June 15, 2024, to submit requested documentation for priority awarding.
The MHEC One-App is available in the student's Maryland College Aid Processing System (MDCAPS) account. The MHEC One-app replaces the Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA) by including a section for undocumented applicants and all other applicant’s ineligible to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for MHEC State aid programs. To get started, students must log into or create their Maryland College Aid Processing System account, known as their MDCAPS account.
While students who are eligible to complete the FAFSA are not required to complete the MHEC One-App to be considered for the Guaranteed Access (GA), Educational Assistance (EA), and Maryland Community College Promise scholarship, all applicants may complete the One-App to apply for all of the other numerous grants, scholarships, and loan assistance repayment programs offered through MHEC.
MHEC is currently in the process of updating the financial assistance webpage to reflect new information for the upcoming 2024-2025 award year. MHEC urges all students to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible and include at least one Maryland institution of higher education on the list of colleges. Important: Students will not be considered for the Guaranteed Access (GA) or Educational Assistance (EA) grants unless a Maryland institution of higher education is listed on the FAFSA, and students will not be considered for the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship unless a Maryland community college is listed on the FAFSA.
If you Haven't Heard, A New Financial Aid Tool Helps Streamline the State's Scholarship Application Process… MHEC One-App
The Maryland Higher Education Commission recently announced a new financial aid tool that streamlines the process when applying for State scholarships and grants.
It was named the MHEC One-App to indicate that now there is just one application for students to review and apply for the 27 scholarships available to them through the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Students who plan to attend a college, university, or career/trade school between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, may now apply for all the financial aid programs offered by the State in one convenient location.
To get started, students must log into or create their Maryland College Aid Processing System account, known as their MDCAPS account. Students who do not currently have an account are required to create one, because the new application process (MHEC One-App) is found in the student's MDCAPS account. This includes undocumented students who are eligible for in-state tuition. The new MHEC One-App tool replaces the Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA), which is also located in their Maryland College Aid Processing System (MDCAPS) account.
Once logged into the MDCAPS account, click on the MHEC One-App link, and follow the prompts to review and apply for the 27 scholarships available through the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
Financial Aid:
RESOURCE: StudentAid.gov
RESOURCE: FAFSA Completion Resources & Video Tutorials
RESOURCE: FAFSA Resource courtesy of the Maryland Higher Education Commission: FAFSA Simplification. A PDF document that may answer many of the questions students & parents may have.
RESOURCE: The Paying for College Workshop events sponsored by Montgomery College. Please visit our website to register at bit.ly/FA_Help.
RESOURCE: EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER SERVICES include assistance with financial aid applications. The Educational Opportunity Center program is sponsored by a TRIO grant from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Postsecondary Education and Montgomery College. Visit their website to schedule an appointment (virtual, in-person and by email).
JAG Jobs: All job opportunities are published in the latest Jag JOBS Bulletin available to download at any time from our College Career web page ‘Jag Jobs’ under College & Career Quick Links. https://bit.ly/3sKZRVw.
NEW! JOB POSTING: The Comus Inn re-opens in spring 2024 and is hiring for all positions. Visit https://www.thecomusinn.com/ to apply. Located at 23900 Old Hundred Road Dickerson, MD 20842 | (301) 349-2015 | Post 14 February 2024 |
NEW! JOB POSTING: RSV Pools is hiring for summer. Visit www.RSVpools.com for more information and to apply. | Post 22 February 2024 |
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 HIGHLIGHTS:
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: AFCEA STEM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM. SENIORS. To apply for an AFCEA Washington, DC Chapter scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 17 | Post 23 February 2024 |:
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Resident within the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.
- High school senior or 2nd-year student in a two-year Community College.
- Acceptance to a U.S. accredited college or university in a four-year, full-time STEM curriculum for computer science, engineering [all], mathematics, physics, chemistry, cybersecurity, and management information systems; and Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I)-related fields of study including electrical, computer, chemical, aerospace, or systems engineering or electronics.
- Winners of full tuition scholarships are not eligible.
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: METROPOLITAN KAPPA YOUTH FOUNDATION (MKYF) Lawrence Hamm, Sr. Scholarship Program. Available to Montgomery County high school SENIORS. Multiple scholarship opportunities with varying criteria. Average award $1,500. DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 1 | Post 26 February 2024 |
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: MINDS IN MOTION SCHOLAR-ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP. SENIORS. $1,000 award. Applicants must have a minimum 3.25 unweighted GPA and have participated in interscholastic athletic activities sponsored by MPSSAA during the high school career. DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 5 | Post 27 February 2024 |
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: DC AREA PHI BETA KAPPA ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP. SENIORS. $1,000 award. Applicants must have a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and display an interest in the liberal arts and sciences, love of learning, and civic responsibility. Questions should be directed to awards@dcpbk.org. DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 6; 11:59 pm | Post 27 February 2024 |
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: The NORTHWEST PTSA and BOOSTER CLUB SCHOLARSHIP. The Northwest PTSA and Booster Club will each award ONE $1000 grant and TWO $500 grants for graduating SENIORS attending a two- or 4-year college or university or other post-secondary program. To qualify for the NWHS PTSA and/or NWHS Booster Club Scholarships you must meet the requirements listed below:
- Be a graduating Senior from Northwest High School, Class of 2024
- Have received a letter of acceptance and plan to attend a two- or four-year college or university or another post-secondary program/training.
- Have completed a minimum of 100 SSL hours for PTSA scholarship; a minimum of 75 SSL hours for Booster Club scholarship.
- Submit a 300- to 500-word essay based on the prompts in the application. If you are applying to both the PTSA and the Booster Club Scholarship, two essays are required.
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: APRIL 21 | Post 26 FEBRUARY 2024 |
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: THE ASIAN PACIFIC COMMUNITY FUND SCHOLARSHIP (APCF). SENIORS. APCF is excited to partner with local donors to offer scholarship programs annually to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. Through a competitive process, scholarship recipients are selected by a review committee based on academic merits, community involvement, leadership skills as well as recommendation from a mentor. Many of our scholarship programs are intended to support low-income youth, and several programs encourage students to study locally at a community college or state university. Multiple scholarships are available. DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 15 | Post 26 February 2024 |
- NEW! SCHOLARSHIP: DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC., Potomac Valley Alumnae Chapter Scholarship. SENIORS. Must reside in Montgomery County. This year we will be awarding multiple scholarships to Montgomery County, MD seniors. Multiple awards. Amounts vary with award. Minimum GPA 2.5 required. Scholarships will be awarded based on the following criteria: community service, academic achievement, essay, and financial need. DEADLINE TO APPLY: APRIL 7 | Post 28 February 2024 |
SCHOLARSHIP REMINDERS:
- REMINDER! SCHOLARSHIP: Ivy Vine Charities Scholarship. Available to Montgomery County (MD) high school SENIORS. GPA of 2.7 or higher on a 4.0 scale required. Applicants must plan to attend a four-year university of college, or a community college. Official transcript required along with a written essay (topic specific). Additional requirements are noted on the scholarship application which can be downloaded HERE. DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 2 | Post 31 January 2024 |
- REMINDER! SCHOLARSHIP: ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INC., 2024 SCHOLARSHIP. Available to Montgomery County Public Schools SENIORS. Must reside in Montgomery County. $1,000 (amount may vary). 2.5 minimum GPA with community service and leadership qualities. Merit based. DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 15 | Post 16 February 2024 |
- REMINDER! SCHOLARSHIP: DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, Montgomery County (MD) Alumnae Chapter 2024 Scholarship Program. SENIORS. Must reside in Montgomery County. This year we will be awarding multiple scholarships to Montgomery County, MD seniors. Multiple awards. Amounts vary with award. Minimum GPA 2.0 required. Available for graduates planning to attend a two or four-year college or university, trade, or vocational school. Visit https://www.mcacdst.org/programs/scholarship-2/ for more information and to apply. Please note: To be considered for a scholarship, a completed application must be uploaded using the following Jotform link: Submission Form. DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 15 | Post 22 January 2024 |
- REMINDER! SCHOLARSHIP: National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Scholarship: Available to Montgomery County Public Schools high school SENIORS. 3.0+ GPA required. Applicants must have participated in extracurricular activities and must have participated in faith-based, religious-based or volunteer activities. Application includes an essay. Scholarship Information Sheet | Scholarship Application | Application packet (application form, student essay, and recommendation letters) must be sent to: Ms. Rebecca L. Gibson, Montgomery County Board of Education, Carver Educational Services Center, 15 West Gude Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850 or by email to Rebecca_Gibson@mcpsmd.org. Questions about the scholarship process should be directed to MoCOScholarshipCommittee@hotmail.com DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 22 | Post 7 February 2024 |
- REMINDER! SCHOLARSHIP: JOSHUA SNYDER MEMORIAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP: Available to Northwest High School (Montgomery County, MD) SENIORS. Applicants must plan to attend a college (2 or 4-year), a university, vocational/trade school following graduation. Financial need considered. $2,500 awards (3). DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 22 | Post 31 January 2024 |
NEW: Things to Know from MCPS for Thursday, February 29
1. Important Update on Instruction for April 22
Monday, April 22 is now an asynchronous learning day and will be used as a make-up instructional day for students. Students will be sent home with assignments to complete independently.
Asynchronous learning describes educational activities and assignments that engage students in learning without live instruction or the use of technology. Students must complete assignments to count toward their attendance for the day. Additional time for students to complete assignments will be granted for any challenges or unforeseen circumstances. Read More.
2. Prekindergarten and Head Start Registration Opens March 1
Prekindergarten and Head Start registration begins Friday, March 1, for the 2024-2025 school year. Children must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2024, and families must be income-eligible to apply. Families can register their children online or in person.
If your child was 4 on or before Sept. 1, 2023, you may still register for Prekindergarten/Head Start for the remainder of this school year.
Click here for how to register.
For more information about eligibility guidelines, required documents or how to register online, call 240-740-4530 or visit the MCPS website.
3. Survey Open—Let Us Know How We Are Doing and Help Improve Your School and MCPS
We want to hear from you on how we are doing. MCPS is inviting ALL students, staff and parents/caregivers to share your experiences and thoughts on academics, communication and overall satisfaction with your school and the district and/or experience working at MCPS. Your input and insight are essential in helping us understand what is working well and areas for improvement. Your participation and any identifying information are completely confidential. The feedback collected will be used to inform decisions and help create a more supportive and enriching environment for students, staff and families in our district.
Click here to access more information about the surveys. The surveys will close Friday, March 15.
4. Upcoming Events, Reminders and Resources
RSVP Today To Attend the Next Girls’ Summit on March 9
Join us for the Girls’ Summit on Saturday, March 9 at Northwood High School. This event will provide informative workshops geared towards students in grades 6–12 on a variety of current topics. Read more. RSVP
MCPS Partners with Girls With Impact
MCPS is partnering with Girls With Impact to bring a free Business and Leadership program for girls and gender-expansive youth in Grades 9–12. Developed with leaders from Harvard University, this 10-week, online program begins March 11, and equips girls with the skills, knowledge and confidence to become entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders. Read more.
Sign Up to Become a Summer RISE Host Today
Are you interested in sharing your career experience with rising 2024-2025 MCPS high school juniors and seniors? Learn how to become a host for the 2024 Summer RISE program! Read more.
Pregúntale a MCPS en Español Live
In case you missed it, the “Preguntale a MCPS” team responded to parents’ questions and spoke about how to advocate for the changes parents want in our schools. The session was open to all parents to join the MCPS en Español Facebook page. The team also explained the steps for Pre-K and Head Start registration, asynchronous day on April 22 and COSA updates. Click here to watch.
5. MCPS News
Montgomery County Board of Education Adopts Fiscally Responsible Budget for FY 2025
During its Feb. 22 business meeting, the Board of Education tentatively adopted an Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2025 that maintains teaching and learning supports and strengthens accountability, while also being sensitive to the tough economic climate. Read the full release.
Choral Educator Named Rising Star Teacher of the Year
Less than two years on the job, Danielle Gover is knocking it out of the park. Gover, choral teacher at Westland Middle School, is this year’s Rising Star Teacher of the Year. Read more.
Galway Elementary School Held Its First Ever Engineering Earth Fair Day. The schoolwide, all-day event gave students a chance to apply their engineering skills to environmental challenges, while celebrating all things Earth.
Top 3 Winners of the First Youth Anti-Racist Film Festival
The first Youth Anti-Racist Film Festival was a resounding success. The event, hosted by the Minority Scholars Program, took place on Feb. 24 at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center. MCPS students delivered powerful documentaries with messages that made it clear that there is no room for racism in the classroom. Twelve films were presented at the festival; there were more than 100 people in attendance. Check out the winner’s list.
Caps Youth Hockey Inspires Rolling Terrace Elementary Students
The Washington Capitals hosted a hockey clinic for Grade 5 students at Rolling Terrace Elementary School earlier this week. Students learned the basics of the sport, including stickhandling, passing and shooting. Jennifer Rushin, a physical education content specialist, said the opportunity allowed students to practice skills and concepts learned in class. Students were able to get a feel for the sport with some one-on-one guidance with the clinic's supervisors.
REMINDER: SAT School Day Information for the Class of 2025
SAT School Day at NWHS will take place on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, for all students in the Class of 2025. Students are required to arrive at NWHS no later than 7:35 am on SAT School Day to check in and locate their testing room. The Digital SAT is offered at no cost to students in the Class of 2025, and all students in the Class of 2025 are expected to test. There is no need to sign up, as students are automatically enrolled. On March 1st, students will check their school-issued device (Chromebook) in their English classrooms. They will receive information about the Digital SAT, items to bring on test day, and study resources for the SAT.
Additionally, NWHS students in the Class of 2025 will attend the NACAC College Fair on March 19, 2024.
REMINDER: Your Voice Matters: Family Survey for School Improvement
At Northwest High School, we believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of your perspective. Your family's input is crucial in shaping the future of our school community, and we invite you to participate in our Family Survey.
This survey aims to gather valuable insights into your experiences and opinions regarding various aspects of our school district. Your honest feedback will help us understand what's working well and identify areas where we can improve to create a more supportive and engaging learning environment for all students.
Participating in this survey is easy, and it will only take a few minutes of your time. Your responses are completely confidential, and the information you provide will be used solely for the purpose of enhancing our educational programs and services. The survey opens February 12, 2024 and closes March 15, 2024.
To access the survey, please click on the link provided below:
https://parentsurvey.mcpsmd.org/
We appreciate your commitment to our school community and value the unique perspectives each family brings. Together, we can continue to build a positive and thriving educational environment.
Thank you for your time and input. We look forward to hearing from you!
REMINDER: Free Store Updates!
Thank you Northwest Community for all of your donations to the Free Store! We average several visitors a day, and as the new semester begins, students are looking for replacement school supplies. As always, we accept all gently used school supplies, such as paper and binders, but right now we are in particular need of composition and spiral notebooks, and backpacks. Cute trinkets are always welcome to make shopping at the Free Store an especially fun experience. Please drop off donations in the front office or have your child bring them to room 264. Thank you!
REMINDER: MSP Intra-County Retreat is Saturday, March 16
The 13th Annual Intra-County Minority Scholars Program Retreat is right around the corner and already building up a buzz. Last year, MSP set the blueprint and reminded everyone to “be about it!” This year, the student leaders are calling on students across Montgomery County to join them in both “starting a new chapter” and “rewriting the narrative.” They are well aware of the forces that continue to try to deny progress. They are familiar with the efforts to whitewash U.S. history and erase the efforts of “minoritized” groups. They are aware of the many efforts to censor and remove books that deal with social justice issues. And so MSP stands ready to start a new chapter that firmly demands equity. They stand ready to rewrite the narrative - one that is truly anti-racist. So on Saturday, the 16th of March at John F. Kennedy High School, the 13th annual MSP Retreat will declare to the world that Montgomery County students plan to “Start a New Chapter and Rewrite the Narrative!”
Eighteen years ago, the Minority Scholars Program began organically as a student driven initiative aimed at tackling the opportunity gap. Through student voice, student leadership and student activism, it has served as both a vehicle, as well as a blueprint, for creating change. Over the course of this time, MSP has expanded to all MCPS high schools, over half of the middle schools, and now more than 8 elementary schools. But there have also been considerable interest from numerous other schools and school districts within the state of Maryland and beyond. The student leaders are more committed than ever to fight the insidious existence of the opportunity gap and inequity within our schools. And the 13th Annual Intra-County Minority Scholars Program Retreat aims to help usher that change along and to help move us definitively forward. Retreat events begin at 9:00am and continue to 3:30pm on Saturday the 16th of March, 2024 at John F. Kennedy High School in Silver Spring, Maryland. Come witness MCPS youth “start a new chapter,” outline their vision, design their manuscript for educational equity, and “rewrite the narrative” to create a truly anti-racist school system.
REMINDER: MCPS' Girls Summit - Saturday, March 9
Students grades 6–12 and caregivers are invited to the second MCPS Girls’ Summit from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 9, at Northwood High School. This event will provide informative workshops geared towards middle and high school girls on a variety of current topics. Join us for a chance to network, participate in fun activities, learn valuable skills and enjoy a fashion show presented by White House Black Market celebrating diverse body types.
Sessions will be provided in English and Spanish and will be organized by grade level. Student Service Learning (SSL) hours will be available for students. Please see Ms. Morales or Ms. Henry if interested in attending this event or if you have any questions.
Topics and activities will include:
· Healthy relationships/dating violence
· Social media use and mental health
· Self-esteem
· Identifying symptoms of depression & anxiety
· How to get help
· Healthy eating
· Body image
· Gardening therapy
· Music therapy
· Zumba
· Kaiser spin bikes
· Kaiser health screening & flu shots
· And much more!
REMINDER: UPDATED Parking Information
Second semester parking permits will be available for purchase beginning Thursday, January 25, 2024, for $39.00 (processing fee included) payable by cash, check (made payable 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 address once the application has been received and approved for eligibility. Applications and payment can be brought to the business office, Room 322, before school starting at 7:25 a.m., during lunch and after school until 2:45 p.m. Applications (two-page document) are also available in the Business Office for students to pick up, as well as on the Northwest HS webpage under the Back-to-School Resource Bank. As a reminder, students must be cleared of all obligations (including but not limited to all current and past AP exam fees, textbook fees, and athletic uniforms) and have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA in order to be eligible for a student parking permit.
REMINDER: Important School Cash Online Access!
MCPS has transitioned to a new online payments system called SchoolCash Online (SCO). This will be the preferred method of payment for all school-related fees, excluding school lunches. SCO will help increase efficiency and security at schools by making payments directly into schools’ bank accounts and eliminating the need for teachers to handle money. A processing fee will be included on all items available for purchase, regardless of the type of payment used on SCO or at the school.
As of Monday, August 21, 2023, parent/guardians will no longer need an SCO PIN number to add their student(s) to their SCO account. Guardians will automatically get emails from SCO (noreply@schoolcashonline.com) with instructions if the email address is on file with the school. For approved parent/guardians who do not currently have an SCO account, an automated email was sent out with an invitation to create an account. For approved parent/guardians who already have an SCO account but have not yet linked their student(s) to their account, an automated email was sent from SCO for each unlinked student. The email had an “Accept” button, that once clicked, will attach that parent/guardian’s child to their account automatically. If you need support with the registration process, please email the Parent KEV group support drop box at parenthelp@kevgroup.com, or can call at 866-961-1803.
MCPS ha hecho la transición a un nuevo sistema de pagos en línea llamado SchoolCash Online (SCO). Este será el método de pago preferido para todas las cuotas relacionadas con la escuela, excluyendo los almuerzos escolares. SCO ayudará a aumentar la eficiencia y la seguridad en las escuelas al realizar pagos directamente en las cuentas bancarias de las escuelas y eliminar la necesidad de que los maestros manejen dinero. Se incluirá una tarifa de procesamiento en todos los artículos disponibles para la compra, independientemente del tipo de pago utilizado en SCO o en la escuela.
A partir del lunes 21 de agosto de 2023, los padres/tutores ya no necesitarán un número PIN de SCO para agregar su(s) estudiante(s) a su cuenta de SCO. Los tutores recibirán automáticamente correos electrónicos de SCO (noreply@schoolcashonline.com ) con instrucciones si la dirección de correo electrónico está registrada en la escuela. Para los padres/tutores aprobados que actualmente no tienen una cuenta de SCO, se envió un correo electrónico automático con una invitación para crear una cuenta. Para los padres/tutores aprobados que ya tienen una cuenta de SCO pero que aún no han vinculado a su(s) estudiante(s) a su cuenta, se envió un correo electrónico automatizado desde SCO para cada estudiante no vinculado. El correo electrónico tenía un botón "Aceptar", que una vez que se hace clic, adjuntará al hijo de ese padre/tutor a su cuenta automáticamente. Si necesita ayuda con el proceso de inscripción, envíe un correo electrónico al buzón de apoyo del grupo de padres KEV al parenthelp@kevgroup.com, o puede llamar al 866-961-1803.
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: 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: 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
Northwest High School serves over 2400 students and is home of the Jaguars!