THE COUGAR CONNECTION
The Catoctin High School Newsletter • April 20, 2023
chs pLANT SALE
Catoctin High School will host their annual plant sale on Saturday, April 29, May 6, and May 13 from 9:00 AM to noon. There are new varieties of plants being offered this year in addition to annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and hanging baskets. Thank you for your support of Catoctin horticulture! Please see the attached flyer and plant catalog for more information.
ECC Tree Planting Fundraiser
The Environmental Conservation Club (ECC) recently planted trees at Catoctin High with a grant they received from the Maryland Department of Transportation. The club is fundraising for help to care for the trees. Please see the flyer for details of how you can support their endeavors or use the School Cash link here.
Important Senior Information
April 21 - Final Senior Meeting, 7:35 am - Auditorium
April 28 - Scholar Award application due (posted to class of 2023 Schoology page)
April 28 - Catoctin Junior/Senior Prom, 7:00-10:00 pm
May 6 - Cougar Paw award nomination form due
May 10 - Cap and gown distribution - during STEP, lunches and after school (2:30-3:30 pm)
May 12- MANDATORY Senior surveys due in Naviance (opens after spring break)
May 15 - Extra ticket requests and accessible seating requests due.
May 17 - Last Day of Instruction for Seniors
May 17 - Optional Photo Opportunity on the CHS stage, registration required, 4:00 - 6:00 pm
May 22 - Senior Awards Ceremony
May 22 & 23 - Required Graduation Practice, CHS, 8:00-12:30 pm
May 24 - Graduation, 9:30 am. Tickets required.
Mark Your Calendar!
April 28 - 2-Hour Early Dismissal, Mid-Term
April 28 - CHS Junior/Senior Prom
May 1 - 10 - AP Testing
May 1 - 23 - MCAP Testing
May 29 - Schools Closed, Memorial Day
June 2 - 2-Hour Early Dismissal, Last Day of School!
MCAP State Testing: Schedule
Catoctin High School will begin administering state assessments May 1st. Most students will take the tests during their regular class block. Some students who have not yet met state assessment requirements will also be scheduled to test.
English 10 MCAP: One 70-minute session each day
Monday, May 1 through Thursday, May 4
Alg. 1 MCAP: One 40-minute session each day
Monday, May 8 through Thursday, May 11
Biology MISA: One 40-minute session each day
Monday, May 15 through Thursday, May 18
Government MCAP: One 40-minute session each day
Thursday, May 18 through Tuesday, May 23
High school BVP students testing at Catoctin High School Students should report to the high school by 7:15 am, unless other arrangements have already been made. They should check in in the front office upon arrival. Most students will be done by 9 am
AP Testing
CHS AP Testing is scheduled the week of May 1 and the week of May 8. Please direct questions about AP testing to Mary Jacques, Assistant Principal, at 240-236-8100.
Dress Code Reminders
As the weather gets warmer, the need arises more often for us to remind students about appropriate school attire. We expect students to comply with the FCPS dress code that includes the following expectations per FCPS Policy 439. Excerpts are listed below, for the full policy please reference the policy linked above.
The Board of Education (Board) is committed to providing a safe, productive, and positive educational environment, one which reinforces the mission of the school system while respecting students’ First Amendment rights.
The Board provides the following standards for dress recognizing school administrators may impose additional standards specific to the needs of their individual schools, provided such standards balance the students’ First Amendment rights with the school’s need to maintain a safe and orderly school environment, and consideration is given to input from the school community. Such standards are to be consistently and fairly applied to all students regardless of gender.
1. Students are restricted from wearing clothing that is unduly revealing (e.g. cut low at the neck or under the arms, exposes bare midriff, pants worn below the hips exposing the student's underwear or skin).
2. Students are prohibited from wearing clothing or items that promote illegal or violent conduct such as unlawful use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or weapons.
3. Students are prohibited from wearing clothing or items that are obscene, libelous or feature sexually offensive or vulgar words, pictures, phrases, drawings, etc.
4. Students are prohibited from wearing clothing or items containing derogatory expressions or language demeaning an identifiable person or group such as based on a person's race, color, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability that could disrupt or materially interfere with school activities.
5. Students are prohibited from wearing specific gang-related attire.
6. Students may be restricted from wearing clothing that may conceal weapons or other illegal items such as drugs (outerwear jackets, etc.), and items that may be used as weapons (metal belts, chains attached to wallets/keys, etc.). Students may be asked to keep such items in their assigned locker during the school day.
7. Students are prohibited from wearing head gear unless an exception is provided as outlined under #13 below.
8. State regulations require the wearing of shoes in public places at all times.
9. Students are expected to follow all school rules governing safety in specialized programs that may require the wearing of protective clothing, safety glasses, proper foot protection, or other similar requirements.
10. Students may elect to wear a face mask/face covering for personal or health related reasons.
11. Students may be restricted from wearing an item of clothing or article which impedes their ability to be fully engaged and participate in instruction.
We have important work to do with and for students at school each day. Like any “work” environment, there are established norms of attire. When students adhere to these policy regulations, it ensures that their time and ours does not need to spent in conversation about appropriate school dress.
We appreciate the partnership of our parents and guardians to help ensure that students’ attire is in compliance with these expectations. When we all reinforce the same message, students are much more likely to respond positively.
Cuddles Cat Rescue
Donations Needed
Donations Needed
The LEO Club is collecting donations for the Cuddles Cat Rescue from April 19th to May 19th. Donations of kitten chow, cat food, cat toys, and cleaning supplies, such as disposable gloves, hand soap, and paper towels will be accepted. The donation box is located in the front office. Your contributions to our community are appreciated!
LEO Club Fundraiser
AT Roy Rogers
AT Roy Rogers
The LEO Club is hosting a fundraiser at Roy Rogers in Thurmont on Friday, April 28th from 5:00 - 8:00 PM and Saturday, April 29th from 8:00 - 11:00 AM. Please see the flyer below for more information.
chs prom set for april 28
The 2023 Catoctin High School Prom, "Rose Masquerade", will be held on Friday, April 28 from 7:00-10:00 pm at the Thurmont Event Complex.
Prom is open to Catoctin High School juniors and seniors and their guests. Guests must be grade 9 or older and under age 21. Tickets will go on sale in the cafeteria and via student accounts on SchoolCash online beginning Monday, April 3. A signed dance agreement form is required to purchase tickets. Tickets are $30 per person.
In order to attend Prom, students must be present for a full day of school. Per FCPS policy 400-98, a student's daily attendance is considered present for the full day if he/she is present for more than half of the school day. If students are planning to leave school early, they must have a parent/guardian note and they should not leave before 11:00am. If a student arrives late to school, he/she will not be permitted to leave school early if he/she plans to attend Prom. Students will not be eligible to attend Prom if they have an unexcused absence on Friday, April 28 from school and/or classes - any absence will require a note from a parent/guardian.
Distinguished Graduate - Nominations Open
The Distinguished Graduate Committee at Catoctin High School is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Distinguished Graduate Awards. Nominations for this year must be submitted by May 1st. For information regarding the Distinguished Graduate program and nomination forms, visit the Catoctin High School website at https://edu.fcps.org/chs/chs-distinguished-graduate or by calling Catoctin High at 240-236-8100.
Discounted Hersheypark Tickets for Sale
The CHS Science Department is selling 2023 Hersheypark tickets for a discounted rate of $50 each (reg. rate $84.95). You can purchase tickets from science students or via SchoolCash online: Hersheypark Tickets. Tickets will be available for pickup beginning May 1 in the CHS main office. Tickets must be used by September 10.
Yearbook Orders
Don't miss out on our yearbook! The current price is $85. Place your order online at jostensyearbooks.com or call 1-877-767-5217. The school DOES NOT accept yearbook orders.
Not sure if you purchased a book? CLICK HERE to check the Jostens purchaser list as of 1/19/2023.
NEW FCPS Enrollments
Do you need to enroll a NEW student for the 2023-24 school year? Online enrollment is open for students NEW to Frederick County Public Schools for the upcoming school year!
Parents may enroll their child in FCPS by clicking here in English or here in Spanish. You will be prompted to create an account prior to beginning the enrollment process. Additional information can be found online at https://www.fcps.org/student-services/enrolling-a-student.
After completing an enrollment form, a representative from FCPS will reach out to you to complete the enrollment process and ensure that all necessary documents have been provided. If you are unable to complete the enrollment online, a paper enrollment form can be provided. Please contact our school with questions.
Congressional Art Competition
Members of the US House of Representatives sponsor a national art competition each spring. The Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our congressional district.
The winning artwork from our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The Capitol exhibit includes the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. The winning artwork is also featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page.
The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students who live or attend a high school in the 6th Congressional District. If you're not sure if you live in the 6th District, you can look up your congressional district here. You can also call Rep. David Trone's office at 301-926-0300.
The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 28, 2023. Students can submit their artwork by using our online submission form. Please see the Rules for Students, Submission Checklist and Student Release Form at the links provided. If you have questions about how this format works, please reach out to Rep. David Trone's office at 301-926-0300 or email Trone.Art@mail.house.gov.
MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL
Dear Catoctin Community,
This time of any school year is a busy one…..there are a lot of fun and important activities taking place. Although most would contend that standardized testing is not fun, it is an important activity in which many students engage. Beginning in May, students will take part in a variety of testing – AP (Advanced Placement), MCAP (Maryland Comprehensive Assessment), HSA (High School Assessment), and MISA (Maryland Integrated Science Assessment). The graduation and College and Career Readiness requirements related to testing continue to evolve; we will communicate with students and parents regarding the specific requirements for them each year. Whatever the test or the reason for taking it, it is always important for students to put forth their best effort. Each test is an opportunity to demonstrate learning and understanding, fulfill graduation requirements, and/or provide important data that helps inform our schoolwide work. Students should do the following to ensure that they maximize their performance on each standardized test:
Get a good night’s sleep and eat a good breakfast.
Put forth your best effort on the test – take your time, check your work, respond to every question
Bring your fully-charged, school-issued Chromebook to school each day
Good test data is not the goal; rather, this information helps tell us whether or not we are achieving our goal (student learning and mastery) and thus it is an important part of our work. We appreciate the support and encouragement that parents and guardians provide to students as they take part in the important testing process. Strong student performance is something for which we can all be proud.
Go Cougars!
Sincerely,
Jen Clements
Principal
Official CHS Cougars Spiritwear
Click on the photo below to view the wide variety of options available!
Don't Miss a Game!
GO COUGARS!
Up-to-date CHS game schedules for all sports: https://www.frederickcountycmc.org/public/genie/312/school/6/
Watch games via live-streaming on www.nfhsnetwork.com/
Online game tickets, season passes: Go Fan-CHS
Join CHS Sports Boosters to support Catoctin Athletics!
Spring Sports Season at CHS
Our Catoctin High School home spring athletic season is underway. Keep up-to-date with all of our athletic events by visiting our page on the Frederick County CMC website. Please help us maintain a safe environment by adhering to policies listed below.
The following items are prohibited from being brought into the stadium. We do not have a bag check or holding area; please plan to store these items in your vehicle:
Backpacks, string bags or large purses
Athletic equipment (sticks, helmets, balls, etc.)
Any food, beverages, or food and beverage containers
Skateboards
Pets - unless they are service animals
Parking and Event Guidelines for ALL Contests:
Per FCPS policy, if you choose to leave the stadium, you must pay to re-enter the event.
The use of tobacco, including chewing tobacco, and vaping, is prohibited on FCPS school property.
Good sportsmanship is an expectation. Spectator behavior is expected to be one that is respectful of the student athletes and performance groups, officials, staff, and other spectators. Behavior not in line with these expectations may result in removal from the venue. Please take a moment to watch this video: Public Service Announcement - It's Not a Game.
All children in under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Parking in non-marked spaces such as sidewalks, grassy areas or any other area not designated for vehicle parking is prohibited and may result in the vehicle being towed.
Admission:
Admission to events is $2 for students and $6 for adults. Tickets and passes can be purchased online at https://gofan.co/app/school/MD24764. Game tickets can also be purchased at the gate.
2022-2023 CHS issued season passes, MPSSAA passes, and FCPS and WCPS identification badges are the only forms of passes accepted. Badges serve as an entrance ticket for the badge holder only.
Fans over the age of 60 and under the age of 8 are given free entry to all FCPS athletic contests.
Free Sports Physicals
MMI is proud to offer Free Sports Physicals to any college or high school student for the 2023/24 school year. These sports physicals help to ensure any student interested in participating in athletics has the opportunity to. Physicals will be held on Saturday, May 20th 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at the MMI Main Office, 86 Thomas Johnson Court in Frederick.
Students should have any forms filled out and signed by a parent/guardian if they are a minor. The event will require registration: https://mmidocs.com/spring-physicals-2023.
Girls Flag Football Update
On February 1, 2023, National Girls and Women in Sports Day, FCPS announced a Partnership with the Baltimore Ravens that includes grant money allowing flag football to be piloted as an interscholastic girls fall sport next school year.
If you are interested in playing Girls Flag Football in fall 2023, you are invited to participate in the FCPS High School Student Girls Flag clinic on May 31st, 2023 at 5:30 pm at Frederick High School. To attend this clinic, please fill out this form: Flag Football Clinic
As a school system committed to providing exceptional education and equity in the classroom and on the field, FCPS is proud to be the first school system in the state to pilot flag football, which will provide an additional sport offering for girls to realize their full potential and power through high school athletic participation.
A committee was immediately formed in preparation for the upcoming fall season and includes representatives from FCPS, the Baltimore Ravens, USA Football, the Frederick County Football Officials Association (FCFOA), community partnerships, community liaison as well as an FCPS grant coordinator and secretary.
In order to keep our communities updated on this upcoming new opportunity, we will be providing frequent updates. HERE is the first update which includes a timeline as well as future clinic and camp opportunities to learn more about Girls Flag Football!
resources for families
Catoctin High School Pantry
Families in need of school supplies or other items should email kelly.gruber@fcps.org.
Local Food Banks
Thurmont Food Bank, 10 Frederick Road, Thurmont. For more information call 240-288-1865.
Emmitsburg Food Bank, 130 S. Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg. For more information call 717-642-6963.
FCPS Meal Benefits
All FCPS students can apply for free or reduced-price meal benefits by online at: Meal Benefits. Paper copies are availablYou must reapply every year for benefits.
NEED HELP?
Child Protective Services (CPS): 301-600-2464
To get help for physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect.
Crisis Services: Dial 211
To get help when you feel really anxious or really depressed and need someone to talk with so that you can stay safe.
Maryland Anonymous Tip Line: 1-833-632-7233
To report threats or situations that put your safety or others’ safety at risk.
Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988
To get help if you are thinking about suicide.
catoctin Safe and Sane 2023
Catoctin High School Committee for a Safe and Sane Graduation Inc. is not sponsored by Catoctin High SchoolSafe and Sane is a non-profit, parent-run, tax-exempt corporation established to address the very serious issues of youth drinking, drug use and driving behavior during one of the highest risk social events of their lives. This will be our 32nd year of providing an alternative way for graduates to celebrate and “JUST SAY NO” to drugs and alcohol!
Want to get involved? Follow us on https://www.facebook.com/groups/catoctinsafeandsane. This is the best way for you and your Senior to stay up-to-date on events.
Safe and Sane Fundraising Events: Event Calendar
Safe and Sane Cash Bingo!
Sunday, April 23rd
Lewistown Fire Hall
Doors open - 12:30 pm and Bingo begins - 2:00 pm
For tickets call or text
Billie Jo, 301-639-3199 or Betty, 240-818-2723 .
2023 Senior Yard Signs
$20 each
Purchase signs outside the CHS stadium gate on April 27, 3:00-5:30 pm and April 29, 9:00-10:00 am or by contacting the Safe and Sane Facebook page.
Safe and Sane Upcoming Events:
Grill and Yeti Raffle - $10 each - For tickets contact Jen at 240-315-1492
Cornhole Tournament - May 7 at the Thurmont American Legion. To pre-register please call or text Jen, 240-674-6954. $50 in advance, and $60 the day of the event.
Baccalaureate - will take place on May 21, 7:00pm at Thurmont United Methodist, 13880 Long Rd, Thurmont. Seniors are asked to arrive at 6:30 pm. Please rsvp to the catoctinsafeandsane@gmail.com with the number of members of your family that will attend. Light refreshments will be served.
If you are a senior that sings, plays a musical instrument or would like to read a passage during the program, please let us know by May 1st. Email - catoctinsafeandsane@gmail.com.
cATOCTIN SPORTS BOOSTERS
Catoctin High School Sports Boosters supports all CHS sports teams and coaches, all money raised goes to the athletic programs. We raise money through fundraisers, sponsorship, concession sales and membership.
For more information on CHS Sports Boosters or to make a donation, please visit our website!
Catoctin Youth Football Camp
Grades 2 - 8 (completed)
June 12-15, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Eyler Field
(Due to Turf being Installed at High School Field)
To register, complete the Registration Form.
Lady Cougar Basketball Camp
for Girls in Grades 3 - 9 (entering fall 2023)
June 12-15, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
Catoctin High School
To register, complete the Registration Form.
Volleyball Camp
for students entering Grades 5 - 9 (Fall 2023)
July 17-19, full or half day
Catoctin High School Gym
To register, complete the Registration Form.
Softball Camp
for students in grades 2 - 9 (entering Fall 2023)
June 19-22, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Catoctin High School - Softball Field
To register, complete the Registration Form.
ptsa news
CHS PTSA – A PARTNERSHIP IN EDUCATION
We need your help! The CHS Parent Teacher Student Association exists to help support all of our kids and the professional staff that works so hard on their behalf. We want to continue that level of support and we are looking for volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering you can send an email to CatoctinPTSA@gmail.com. For more information visit: https://edu.fcps.org/chs/ptsa
PTSA General Meetings - Come Join the Fun!
CHS PTSA meetings will be held at 7:00 pm via Zoom Meeting from your home. All are welcome to attend! For more information, email CatoctinPTSA@gmail.com or contact:
Traci Tatum (President) / tracitatum41@gmail.com
Vacant (Vice President) / WE NEED YOU!
Peggy Davis (Secretary) / cowgirlproud@aol.com
Vacant (Treasurer) / WE NEED YOU!
community flyers
These flyers have been approved for electronic distribution by FCPS:
Frederick County (MD) Parks and Recreation’s 2023 Summer Camp season job opportunities are open. Information Flyer.
The Frederick Community Volunteer Fair will be hosted on Saturday, May 13 from 10AM-1PM. Information Flyer.
The Fredrick Book Arts Center is offering a summer art class for rising 9th-12th graders on Thursdays (July 6, 13, 20, 27) from 6-9PM. Cost is $180. Information Flyer.
The Monocacy Composite Youth Mountain Bike Team is holding a new rider & team info session for 6-12 grades on Wednesday, May 10, 6PM at Monocacy Village Park, 409 Delaware Rd, Frederick, 21701. For more information, see flyer.
Junior Achievement is offering the following two summer camps at the JA Youth Workforce & Innovation Center, 1725 Twin Springs Road, Baltimore, 21227. Entrepreneurship Summer Experience Camp is for rising 9-12 graders, June 26-30 from 10AM-2PM. The cost is $125. More information can be found here. Biztown Summer Venture Camp is for rising 4-7 graders, June 26-30 from 9AM-3PM. The cost is $250. More information can be found here.
MET's Fun Camp - Summer theatre camp which include musical theatre, acting, circus skills, improv, music videos and creative dramatics. Information Flyer
Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) is an all-volunteer 501(C)(3) non-profit that builds twin beds, and delivers them, FREE of CHARGE, to families in Frederick Co Maryland whose kids, ages 4-17, are sleeping on the floor, a couch, or with their parents or siblings. Please see this Flyer for more information.