PHS "Patriot"

October 6, 2022

Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Guardians -


Happy Fall, and for those of us at PHS, Happy Spirit Week! On behalf of the staff and myself we would like to share some information, and a few highlights of what is going on within the walls, and on the fields at PHS.


Why is PHS so special? With a staff that can only be described as incredibly talented, professional and committed, and a student body that is supported and nurtured by caring, and nurturing parents, guardians and a supportive community, Portsmouth High School has earned the ranking for being one of the top 7 best schools in Rhode Island. This recognition is well deserved and much appreciated and signifies how fortunate we all are to be part of a community of learners that puts students first.


We are currently in the midst of Spirit Week which includes preparing for the upcoming Homecoming festivities. Students will participate in the traditional ‘Goofy Games’, Homecoming Parade, Football Game and Homecoming dance. Specific information about Homecoming was emailed to you earlier this week.


The overarching goal here at Portsmouth High School is to address the diverse needs of our students, for we believe, and research has shown, that good health - social, emotional and physical - fosters the attainment of academic achievement and well-being, With that in mind, the staff and administration recognize the need to balance our focus on the attainment of high academic expectations and those that inspire student engagement, joyful learning, positive relationships and a sense of community. Some of you may be interested to learn that the most popular course at Yale University is titled “The Science of Well-Being.” The course, with its emphasis on how to lead a happy, productive life, can be taken free online for anyone interested in learning more.


With respect to our newsletter, our intention is to share with you, at least once a month, a snapshot of PHS highlights, thinking you would appreciate becoming aware of some of the amazing activities, projects, events and educational opportunities your children are experiencing.



To conclude, I thank you for all that you do to support our work, our expectations, our staff and administration. As the expression goes, “We do hard things, but together we are stronger.” There are many rewards from a shared partnership, most importantly happy, healthy students who discover their passion and purpose.


Thank you parents and guardians, you should be very proud of your children, we could not do this work without you!


PSAT 9 (Gr 9) & PSAT/NMSQT (Gr 11)

On October 12th, grade 9 students will be taking the PSAT 9 and grade 11 students will be taking the PSAT/NMSQTs. Grades 10 & 12 will be attending their regular B day classes.
Cap & Gown / Diploma Name Information AND Payments

Cap & Gown / Diploma Name Information AND Payments

Attention Seniors: As mentioned in the senior assembly last week, it's time to collect cap & gown size information (height & weight); diploma names, and cap & gown payments.


A pre-printed form for every senior has been distributed to each advisory teacher for distribution. If you lost your form, you can print this generic form or pick up a copy in the main office.


The following information was reviewed with seniors during the assembly:

  • Students purchase their cap & gown.
  • Financial hardships should be directed to their guidance counselor.
  • Previous cap & gowns cannot be used due to different styles and dye lots.
  • The form and payment ($25) is due by Nov 30th.
  • Cash (exact change preferred) or check (payable to PHS) is accepted.
    • There's a $10 return check fee.
  • The default diploma name is Aspen's "Firstname Lastname".
  • If they want a different name printed, parent signature is required.


If NO form is returned AFTER Nov 30:

  • We will ask for their height and weight (so the order can be placed)
  • Their diploma name is the default.
  • The payment increases to $40 (cash only after March 1)
Cap & Gown / Diploma Name Information AND Payments

AP Exam Payments

This information: Sep 20 Email was sent to all AP students and families. Payments are now being accepted.


It is important to note that after Oct 20th, we can no longer accept checks since they will not clear before the Nov 15th deadline to order exams.

Dates / Deadlines

Dates / Deadlines

Oct 10 - Columbus Day (No School)

Oct 12 - PSAT 9 (Grade 9) & PSAT/NMSQT (Grade 11)

Oct 19 - Early Release for Students

Nov 4 - End of Quarter 1

Nov 4 - Flu Clinic

Nov 8 - Staff PD Day (No School for students)

Nov 10 - FASFA Day (30 minute increments) w/ RISLA Expert

Nov 11 - Veterans' Day (No School)

Nov 14 - Q1 Report Cards

Nov 23-25 - Thanksgiving Recess (No School)

Nov 30 - Cap & Gown / Diploma Forms & Payments DUE


AP Exam Payment Dates:

  • Sep 19 - Oct 19 >> Cash or check accepted
  • Oct 20 - Nov 10 >> CASH Only (checks will not clear in time to order exams)
  • After Nov 15 >> CASH ONLY & add $50 late fee


Cap & Gown / DIploma Names Dates:

  • Nov 30 - Forms & Payments DUE
  • After Nov 30:
  1. Height and weight will be documented to place the order
  2. Diploma Name will be the default (Aspen First name & Last name)
  3. Payment increases to $40 (cash or check until Mar 1)
  4. After March 1 - Cash ONLY
Dates / Deadlines
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Information from PHS Departments

CTE & Fine Arts

Science

Social Studies

Modern World Language

Quick Links

Daily Student Announcements (announced over the PA at 8:50 am)

Afternoon Announcements (announced over the PA at 1:53 pm)

Announcements Sent To Parents (email messages sent to parents)

A/B Day Calendar

Bell Schedules

2022-2023 District Calendar

Portsmouth High School

Portsmouth High School

Portsmouth High School

120 Education Lane, Portsmouth, RI, USA realev@portsmouthschoolsri.org (401) 683-2124 portsmouthschoolsri.org/o/phs