THE COUGAR CONNECTION
The Catoctin High School Newsletter • September 1, 2023
Registration Open for the PSAT/NMSQT
The Digital PSAT/NMSQT will be administered at Catoctin High School on Wednesday, October 11 at 7:30 am. This test is offered to current 9th, 10th and 11th grade students.
The cost of the PSAT/NMSQT is $18 and payment is accepted through SchoolCash Online. The item has been attached as an optional item for all students in grades 9-11. Registration will open beginning September 1 and will close on September 7 (or until tests are sold out).
Payment automatically registers the student to take the exam at CHS, but there are a limited number of tests available. Early registration is highly recommended as tests are first come, first served.
All students will need a fully-charged FCPS Chromebook on the day of the test.
The score for the PSAT/NMSQT taken during a student's junior year will be considered for National Merit Scholarships. Highly academic juniors are strongly encouraged to sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT.
For more information on the PSAT/NMSQT (including study links), please visit the College Board website or email Ms. Ryley at sarah.ryley@fcps.org
Student Parking
STUDENT Drop-Off/Pick-Up
Students that plan to drive to school and park on campus are required to obtain a student parking permit from the front office. Permits are $10 each. Students must read and submit a signed Parking Permit Application. Students must have a valid provisional driving license. Student parking is permitted only in the main lot in front of the gymnasium and the upper parking lot. Tickets will be issued to vehicles that do not have a parking permit and/or those parked in non-student parking areas.
Parents dropping off or picking up students should ONLY use the upper parking lot for the safety of students. The main driveway and the front parking lot of the building are reserved for buses and staff parking.
Online Tutoring available 24/7
Our school is proud to announce that we’ve teamed up with TutorMe to offer 24/7 online tutoring to all students!
TutorMe is a place where our students can build the connections they need to learn and thrive. Through TutorMe, students connect with a tutor who’s an exact match for what they’re looking for – whether you’re stumped by an algebra equation, craving a confidence boost, or looking for an extra challenge. There’s more to TutorMe than live online tutoring. Through the TutorMe Writing Lab, you can submit drafts of any written assignment and receive detailed feedback from expert writing tutors in just a couple hours. Reference the TutorMe Support Guide to get started: TutorMe Student Support Guide (English) ESP. Guia de Apoyo- TutorMe (Spanish)
Click on the TutorMe icon in Clever to get started today.
2023-2024 SCHOOL MEALS
FCPS is pleased to offer a new online parent portal for Food and Nutrition services. Visit the parent portal at http://linqconnect.com/ where you can:
Apply for meal benefits (FARM)
View menus, meal prices (NO meal price increases from last year!) and a la carte prices
Add money to student accounts (NO FEES in SY24)
Transfer funds between students
View student meal transactions
Set low-balance notifications
Student Meal Accounts:
FCPS is no longer using MySchoolBucks.
Meal account balances from last school year are now on LINQ Connect.
REGISTER for a LINQ Connect account to see your student(s) balance that will be available to use when school starts on August 23rd. You will then be able to add money, set notifications, view students purchases and more. Learn more at FCPS Nutrition Services.
CHS CALENDAR
SEPTEMBER 2023
9/4 - Schools Closed
9/20 - College Workshop Night, 5 pm, Media Center
9/22 - Mid-Term; 3.5 hours Early Dismissal
9/25 - Schools Closed
9/27 - Homecoming Parade
9/29 - Homecoming Football Game
9/30 - Homecoming Dance
OCTOBER 2023
10/9, 10/10 - Senior Portrait Make Up Dates: Link for more information.
11 - PSAT/NMSQT for grades 9, 10, 11
20 - Schools Closed
23 - Underclass Make Up Picture Day
27 - Schools Closed
Cell phone policy for sy24
There is a lot of research that tells us that there is no such thing as multitasking. Our brain can only focus on one thing at a time, and it needs to focus in order to bring information into our working memory and then ultimately into our long-term memory. So …… if a student is looking at his cell phone, he is not learning. Because we have seen this be such a hindrance to learning, we are reiterating clear expectations regarding the use (or not) of cell phones and consequences we will impose in the hopes of further influencing student behavior for the better.
Thank you for your support of your student’s learning by supporting our efforts and response regarding cell phones.
College Workshop Night
Wednesday, September 20th
5:00 pm CHS Media Center
CHS Counseling team members will review the basics of the college applications including how to select a college, how to use Naviance to complete the application process, and much more. Parents and students are welcome.
College Application Workshops
College application workshops will be held for seniors during STEP on Wednesdays, September 13th - 27th. Attending one of these workshops is MANDATORY for any senior before requests for transcripts will be sent to prospective colleges. Senior must sign up in advance to attend: College Application Workshop Sign Up
Counselor Meetings for Seniors
Individual senior meetings* with your school counselor to review graduation needs and post graduation plans will be held September 6th through October 7th.
Christy Wahl, Last Names A-G, Christina.Wahl@fcps.org, 240-236-8083
Cameo Lawlor, Last Names H-O, Cameo.Lawlor@fcps.org, 240-236-8084
Shannon Hayes, Last Names P-Z, Shannon.Hayes@fcps.org, 240-236-8085
*Senior attendance at this meeting is required.
College Visits to CHS
The following colleges will be visiting Catoctin High School and representatives will be available to meet with students during STEP. Students can find the link to sign up in the Schoology "Class of 202x" groups. For questions, contact Mr. Stack.
Bridgewater University - October 24
Washington College - October 24
Shippensburg University, November 29
academy of fine arts shadowing
Interested in a college and career pathway focused on the arts? Register today to shadow the Academy for the Fine Arts which is the visual and performing arts pathway for high school students in grades 10-12. The AFA meets during the school day and is housed in Gov. Thomas Johnson High School. In addition to rigorous advanced level courses, many of which count as Dual Enrollment credit, the AFA provides a unique artistic community for students who are seeking to challenge themselves in a collaborative environment.
During the shadow day, students will spend 2 blocks of the day learning about the program from our student ambassadors, taking a tour of the facilities, learning about the application process, and visiting any of the following focus areas:
Music
Dance
Visual Art
Theatre
Musical Theatre
The first Shadow Day of the Year will be Wednesday September 13th. To register for the shadow day, please visit www.fcpsartsacademy.org For questions, please contact Jonathan Kurtz at jonathan.kurtz@fcps.org or 240-236-8352.
youth apprentice program
The deadline to apply for the Maryland Youth Apprenticeship program has been extended for qualified FCPS high school juniors and seniors. Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, September 5. Students will "earn while they learn" this school year.
As a Youth Apprentice, students will:
Spend a portion of the instructional day with their mentor at a worksite
"Earn while they learn," completing 450 hours of on-the-job training (minimum wage and up)
Earn weighted high school credit
Upon completion, be awarded a skills certificate from the MD Department of Labor
Positions offered by: Frederick Health, Country Meadows Retirement Communities, Maryland Department of Transportation, RCI Custom Products, Thurmont Child Care, Frederick County Public Schools and more.
For a full listing of available positions, please visit https://bit.ly/47QLMJ1.
For more information or to apply, please contact your school's Work-Based Learning Coordinator, Mr. Gadra.
FCC College night
FCC will host representatives from more than 100 colleges from all over the East Coast on Wednesday, October 8, 6:30-8:30 pm. Students and parents are invited to attend. Register here: FCC College Night
Financial Aid/FAFSA Finish Night
Wednesday, December 13th
5:30 - 8:30 pm CHS Auditorium
Frederick Community College's Assistant Director of Financial Aid Mrs. Shelby Metzgar will explain the federal financial aid process and how to navigate paying for college. Immediately following will be 1:1 assistance completing the FAFSA application** with financial aid experts. Parents and students are welcome.
**The FAFSA application will not be available until December 2023 due to updates and changes to this application.
MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL
Dear Catoctin Community,
With more than a week of school in the books, I am excited to share a good report thus far. Our staff has engaged students in learning and making connections, our students have stepped up to meet academic and behavioral expectations, and our community has shown great support for our school (with an awesome turn out for Back-to-School Night as evidence of that!)
Over the first few days of school, we met with the students (by grade level classes) - we shared our expectations, priorities, and opportunities for support with them. The groups were all attentive and I am hopeful that they will keep this information in the back of their minds as we progress through the year. Included here are the slides of information if you wish to review and discuss with your child(ren). The most important message I hope the students left with is that we prioritize their safety and education every day and that they each have an important role in their individual success and in the positive environment in our school community.
I have also included below links to information that was shared just before school started. If you are like me, those days were a whirlwind and it was hard to find time to focus on all the details. If you did not already have a chance to review this information, I encourage you to do so as it will help set the context for our work this year.
The slides that we presented during the FAQ session (for those who were unable to join us and a reminder for those who were here but want to reference the information again).
A screencast with some helpful information and guidance as we begin the school year.
I shared in my last letter my excitement for this year - our awesome start has only fueled that positive feeling. I hope you and your child(ren) feel the same way; but if you have had struggles (or do in the future), please do not hesitate to reach out - we are here to help!
Go Cougars!
Sincerely,
Jen Clements
Principal
MONTHLY GUIDANCE AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS / GUARDIANS
It is possible (maybe even likely) that, at some point in your child’s years at CHS, you will have a concern. No matter what the nature of your concern, we want to work with you to resolve that. FCPS has provided guidance regarding the parent concern process in the FCPS 2023-2024 Parent/Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct; some of that same information is also available on the FCPS website on this page: https://www.fcps.org/student-services/questions-or-concerns.
The links above help provide us all direction regarding where to turn when something is not going well. The most effective way to resolve a concern is by starting with the staff member who is most directly involved in the situation - in the majority of situations, that can lead to a quick resolution. When that is not possible or does not result in a satisfactory outcome, please reach out to a counselor or administrator. We want to support our students’ (your child’s) success and it often takes collaboration and communication to do so - we welcome the opportunity to talk with and work with you to affect positive change.
Attendance Update Attendance = Opportunity
As a feeder, we continue our commitment to attendance knowing that being at school each day opens opportunities for our students. Below is the attendance rate* and rate of chronic absenteeism** for each school in our feeder for the 2022-2023 school year:
*Attendance rate - An overall school attendance rate of 94% or higher is considered proficient (and 96% or higher is considered excellent).
**Chronic absenteeism - a student is defined as chronically absent if he/she misses 10% or more of the school days.
Our shared feeder focus on attendance is outlined below:
Common Goal: Catoctin feeder pattern schools will use high yield strategies to reduce chronic absenteeism within the feeder from 25% to 21% or less over a 3 year period.
Statement of Action: If we more deeply understand our community, family and student profiles and build relationships among all stakeholders, then we reduce chronic absenteeism and increase overall attendance.
We appreciate your support in establishing positive attendance habits at home and reinforcing the importance of coming to school on time each day.
Attendance = Opportunity
fall athletics season
The Catoctin High School home athletic season will be underway with our first home varsity football game of the year on Friday, September 1 on our brand new turf field! Within a short period of time, all of our fall sports will kick off their regular season. Please help us maintain a safe environment by adhering to the following policies.
Prohibited Items
The following items are prohibited from being brought into the stadium or gymnasium. 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
Bicycles
Animals (only service animals are permitted)
Parking and Event Guidelines:
Per FCPS policy, if you choose to leave the stadium, you must pay to re-enter the event. Student fans will not be re-admitted.
The use of drugs, alcohol, or 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.
All students in grades K-8 must be accompanied by an adult.
No fans should enter the track area, nor sit or stand on any railings or handrails.
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 https://gofan.co/app/school/MD24764. Game tickets can also be purchased at the gate.
2023-2024 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.
Show Your Cougar Pride:
Visit our Sideline store and SAVE 25% on all spirit items (including customizable stadium chairs) with code SPIRIT.
Join the CHS Sports Boosters! Learn more about the Catoctin sports boosters by visiting their website!
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are an important part of our FCPS community. Catoctin High School welcomes your voice and your involvement in our many organizations, activities, boosters programs, and PTSA.
You can become involved by applying at the FCPS Volunteer Center. The FCPS volunteer process and training is conducted on an annual basis and is required for all volunteers. Each year on June 30 our current volunteer pool expires, regardless of date of application. The volunteer application process has reopened for the 2023-2024 school year and will remain open throughout the school year.
Parents - We Want to Hear Your Voice!
Each year, school leaders reflect on what went well the prior year, as well as what goals should be focused on for the upcoming year. This is known as the School Improvement Process (SIP). We have a commitment to improving attendance, as well as increasing academic excellence and engagement. As a parent or guardian of our students, your voice is welcomed and necessary in meeting these goals. We would love to hear your insights and ideas related to this! You can reach out once, or look for opportunities for ongoing engagement throughout the year. Please email jennifer.clements@fcps.org and/or darlene.kerr@fcps.org with your thoughts.
Catoctin Sports Boosters
Catoctin High School Sports Boosters is a parent-based organization which provides support for all CHS athletes, sports teams and coaches. The Sports Boosters program is needed to cover the additional expenses not covered by the very limited Athletic Department budget. We raise money through fundraisers, concession sales, sponsorship and membership. All of the money raised goes to support our athletic programs.
Please consider becoming a Catoctin High School Sports Booster Member. Anyone can join. Help us to help Catoctin Athletes by signing up now: Sports Boosters Membership Application
Catoctin High School PTSA
The CHS Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) exists to help support the students and staff at Catoctin High School. Through one fundraising activity a year (Colorfest parking at CHS), the PTSA helps fund many enrichment activities and rewards for students, teachers, and staff at CHS. Please consider showing your support of this organization by becoming a member: Membership Application You can also show your support by becoming a volunteer! To volunteer, please email Peggy Davis at Cowgirlproud@AOL.com.
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. Paper copies are available in the main office. You 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
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 33rd 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.
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. To become a member, please fill out this form.
For more information on CHS Sports Boosters or to make a donation, please visit our website.
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. Join PTSA by filling out this membership form!
PTSA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR COLORFEST PARKING! This is the only PTSA fundraiser of the year. Monies raised from this event fund student enrichment, teacher appreciation, and annual student scholarships. Please email CatoctinPTSA@gmail.com if you can help!
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 news
These flyers have been approved for electronic distribution by FCPS:
2023 RABIES VACCINATION CLINICS: The Frederick County Health Department will be hosting rabies vaccination clinics rain or shine for all dogs, cats, and ferrets 12 weeks of age or older. Click here for details in both English and Spanish.