SVHS GREEN AND GOLD
Community Newsletter
Embedded Files
Good afternoon, Seneca Valley!!
I hope everyone is having a good long weekend. This weather seems to be interesting to say the least. Please be sure to stay up to date on weather notifications from MCPS.
We appreciate all the students wearing their IDs. Soon we will begin to distribute new Chromebooks to selected grade levels. Students will need their ID's in order to check them out. Furthermore, IDs are required at all Seneca Valley events for student entrance. If you have any questions regarding IDs please touch base with your administrator.
MCPS is stating to install Vape detector's in all high schools. Starting this week installers will start to run the wiring for the detector's. This process will take a few weeks. Once the detectors are functional and ready to go I will provide an up date to the community. Detectors will be placed in all male, female, and gender neutral bathrooms in the building.
Students have been very active these past few weeks. Please see below for the wonderful work our students are doing.
Please make sure you read updates from our PTSA, Boosters, and Athletics.
We will have a Senior Parent meeting on March 5th. Please see below for more information.
I wish you all a great day.
Have a great Monday and week on purpose!
Ricardo Hernandez, Principal
Seal of Biliteracy Celebration
SVHS Cafeteria, February 25th, 6:30-7:30pm
Seneca Valley Students and Community! This week we start Black History Month Recognition and Celebration at SVHS. Click the image below to go to the live SVHS Black History Month Calendar where you'll find events almost every day throughout the month. The last week of February we'll run a Black History Month Spirit Week. The days are on the calendar and the posters will be up in the main entrance soon! There's something for everyone this month - trivia, karaoke, bingo, informational campaigns, African Dance performances, movies, you name it! Let's celebrate OUR history by recognizing Black History Month together.
Please click the image to see a larger version of the calendar to see everything planned for this month!
Sincerely - The Girls of Color Alliance, The Minority Scholars Program, The African Student Association, and The African Dance Team
Senior Parent Meeting, March 5, 2025
There will be a Senior Parent meeting on March 5 in the cafeteria starting at 6:30 pm. Please join us to learn more about graduation, prom and other events that will take place for seniors at the end of their school year. If you have any questions, please contact Lee Ann Wolfe at Leeann_wolfe@mcpsmd.org.
See you there!
Class of 2025 Co-Sponsor
SVHS CTE SkillsUSA Regional Competitions - February 13th
Seneca Valley Career and Technology Education (CTE) Eagles have been soaring throughout CTE Month 2025. On February 13th 21 CTE students went to Thomas Edison to compete in various trades and skills in the SkillsUSA Regional competitions. The students below have qualified for the state SkillsUSA competition that will be held in Westminster, MD on March 29th! By comparison, we only had 3 students who placed in the regional competitions last year.
According to our amazing SkillsUSA sponsor, Matt Weisberg: Our students went toe-to-toe with Edison's best and in only our 2nd year we made our presence felt! If you see any of the above students in the hallways, congratulate them! Thank you to all of the CTE teachers who worked hard to prepare their students for their competitions!
Of course we have tons of pictures that will be posted on our social media sites and on our CTE pages. Please follow us on social media to get the latest news and information about our CTE programs! @SenecaVHSCTE (Twitter)
www.instagram.com/senecavalleycte/
Results:
Cybersecurity
Nithin Manikandan and Sean Jean-Baptiste (team)- 1st place
IT Services
Wai Wu- 2nd place
Criminal Justice
Aiden Thornton- 2nd place
Logan Heisman- 3rd place
Electricity
Matthew Thacker- 2nd place
Carpentry
Josiah Aslam- 2nd place
Internet of Things
Reece Clegg- 1st place
CTE News:
February is CTE Month! Throughout the month we will be highlighting the benefits of taking a CTE pathway in high school, career pathways, CTE competitions, students and fun. One of the most exciting events for many CTE students are the many competitions hosted by career and technology student organizations (CTSO). We have close to 40 health professions students who are taking assessments in the hope of earning qualifying scores so that they can advance to the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) competitions at the state level, then go on to nationals. We also have carpentry, criminal justice, cybersecurity, electricity, HVAC, and IT teams who are preparing to compete in regional SkillsUSA competitions at Thomas Edison High School on February 5, 2025.
During CTE month students will be going on career exploration field trips to the Washington Auto Show and to the Bethesda Marriott. They will have the opportunity to network with industry experts and to find out what skills employers are currently seeking. Additionally, we have several guest speakers who will be coming to Seneca Valley to present information about nontraditional careers and to share information about internships and apprenticeships. Make sure to be on the lookout for information about our CTE month activities. You can visit our webpage or follow us on social media so that you don't miss a thing! Website, @SenecaVHSCTE (Twitter), SenecaValleyCTE@Facebook, www.instagram.com/senecavalleycte/
Begin the Career Journey in High School!
Seneca Valley High School offers ten career-related programs and fifteen pathways! These high-demand career and technical programs are open to all Seneca Valley High School students. These exciting and innovative four-year career-related experiences extend beyond the classroom to enrichment opportunities during and outside of the school day. Most of the programs culminate in opportunities for college credit or industry certifications. Please take some time to visit our website and discuss the possibilities with your child during the upcoming holiday breaks! You can also dance along to the career and technical education video created by Mr. Anthony George!!
For more information contact Adrian Charley, CTE Coordinator at Adrian_V_Charley@mcpsmd.org
https://photos.app.goo.gl/4q72MycLRZLPM9Eu6
Dear SENECA VALLEY HS Friends and Families,
SENECA VALLEY BEST BUDDIES CLUB is having a fundraiser at Jersey Mike's on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST. Please come out and help support the school.
You may order online, by phone, OR in the store with dine in or carry out. You can order online the day of or even the day before the fundraiser and give them your pick-up time and date of pick up. If you call the order in, make sure to let them know it’s for the “SENECA VALLEY FUNDRAISER”.
You may also use the APP and have it delivered. https://www.jerseymikes.com/app
Just make sure when using the APP to put “SENECA VALLEY FUNDRAISER” IN THE NOTES.
The fundraiser runs all day on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST from 10am-9pm- so take a break from cooking dinner or go for lunch. Our team appreciates all your support.
Instructions on how to order online are below.
Go to GERMANTOWN Jersey Mike's website:
https://www.jerseymikes.com/order/28001
2) Order on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST.
3) In the Checkout section of your order:
Please put PICK UP DATE/TIME AND YOUR NAME
Under 'Notes' please put: “SENECA VALLEY HS FUNDRAISER”
Gift cards also count towards the fundraiser. Please consider picking one or two up. They make great thank you and/or birthday gifts.
Thank you for all your support!
****PLEASE SHOW THIS FLYER OR MENTION THE FUNDRAISER AT CHECK OUT SO THAT WE GET CREDIT. THANK YOU.
Literary Magazine
Are you interested in sharing your creativity with the community? Submit to the 8th Edition of the Depths of the Valley Literary Magazine! The Lit Mag is a collection of teacher and student art, poetry, and prose. Check out our brand new website to see our past publications and all subsequent links! Submissions to the Lit Mag can be done using the QR codes posted around the school or through this link. All submissions should be submitted by March 7th.
If you would like to donate to the cause and are all about skincare, we are selling face masks! Each face mask is made with all-natural clay! $20 for 1.75 oz. Or, donate $30 for a face mask AND your very own copy of the Lit Mag (published in May). Each purchase will contribute to the funding of the Lit Mag. Follow this link to make your donation. After you donate, be sure to fill out the Google Form linked on SchoolCash Online so that we can deliver your mask.
Thank you for your support!
SENIORS & SENIOR PARENTS!!!! Please make sure you save and/or favorite our Class of 2025 website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/senecavalleyhs/activities/seniors/
This is where we will house ALL of our important information, reminders, Grad Package info, event calendar, officer and sponsor names, and more. We will keep the most pressing announcements on the homepage for easy access.
Media Center News:
February is National Library Lover's Month! Celebrate by dropping by the LMC to see what's new in thrillers, romance or horror-- or by visiting the Germantown Public Library to try the Winter Reading Challenge.
Valentine's Day may be over, but it's not too late to have a Blind Date with a Book. Our Valentine's reading challenge lasts until February 26th. Three wonderful prizes are up for grabs for those who join the competition by selecting a book "date" and rating the experience. To participate, drop by the LMC.
The SVHS Book Club celebrates African American History Month with the book PROMISE BOYS by Nick Brooks. Promise Boys is set in a Washington, DC Charter School and tells the story of three students—all boys of color-- falsely accused of a terrible crime. Copies are available in the LMC and through the SORA app, accessed here. Save the date for the discussion: Monday, February 24 at lunch in the LMC.
Montgomery County Public Libraries are sponsoring the MoComCon competition for a second year. If you love character art, fandom writing, a combination of the two or cosplay consider entering this year's contest. Details are here.
Enter the MoComCon 2025 Art & Essay Contests!
MoComCon Returns to MCPL This March! MoComCon is back for a TWO DAY event happening on Saturday, March 22nd and Sunday March 23rd! MoComCon 2025 Art and Essay contests also return as part of our celebration of all things comics, graphic novels, and fandoms!
mcpl.blog
Did you know...
SVHS Library is open Monday- Thursday from 7AM to 4:30PM and 7AM to 3:30PM on Friday? We're here when you are-- so come by and check out something new!
MYP Personal Project Updates: Students should be finished with their product by Tuesday, Feb. 11!
📅 Save the date: MYP PP Students' Final Supervisor Meeting is on Tues. Feb. 11 during Eagle Time
🛑 Due date- Final Product: Students should have finished their final product before their supervisor meeting on Tuesday, 2/11 during Eagle Time!
📌MYP Research Seminar Course: In second semester, 10th grade students should see the course "MYP Research Seminar" Course #NSS2309 in Periods 8 or 9 on their schedule.
In second semester, students can expect to see their completion grades for the components of the Personal Project appear as "Practice and Preparation" assignments in StudentVue. These grades update periodically (approximately every two weeks). During the semester, it will calculate as a normal (percentage, A-E) grade, however, Quarter 3 grades for this course are based on completion only.
At the end of the marking period students will receive one of two marks for the course:
CR (credit): If students have submitted a complete project with reflection, final product and process journal Students who complete the project and earn a passing mark will earn credit (grade: CR) for the course in the second semester AND receive 15 SSL hours.
NG (no grade): If you have not submitted the project, plagiarized, or do not earn a passing mark (a grade of 3 or above) Students who do not complete a project, plagiarize or do not earn a passing mark will have a semester grade of "no grade" or NG. This does not negatively impact GPA, but it will result in the student not earning credit for the course and will be marked on their transcript.
SAT School Day Testing “Save the Date” 3/19/25
On Wednesday, March 19th, we will administer the SAT free of charge to all Grade 11 students, who were first time ninth graders in 2022–2023. Non-diploma bound students and students in English Language Development Levels 1 and 2 are not required to take the assessment. Below are a few logistical key points to prepare you for our day.
Bell Schedule
On the day of the assessment, testers should report by 7:25am with their fully charged school-issued Chromebooks. All non-testing students can report to school by 11:45am. Since transportation will be available for all students according to our normal school hours, any student who is not participating in SAT testing will report to the cafeteria or gym from 7:45am – 11:45am. Below is the bell schedule.
Testing Room Assignments
On March 10th, testers will receive an email that will include testing room assignments. Again, all testers are asked to report by 7:25am to allow for a prompt start of the assessment at 7:45am.
For questions, please contact Mr. Stancell, assistant principal and SAT testing coordinator at eric_stancell@mcpsmd.org or (240) 740-6400.
Visual Arts Department News:
Since 1978, the National Art Honor Society Programs have supported student members in their efforts to attain the highest standards in art scholarship, character, and service. Our SVHS Art Honor Society completed a mural for the Mathematics Department this Thursday after weeks of hard work during after school meetings, please see below. Thank you to all the students who volunteered their time and talent to complete this project. This truly represents the spirit of NAHS excellence and service in art for our community.
Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)
Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) encourages SVHS to participate in the 2024-2025 Keeping It Safe (KIS) Coalition Video Contest! This contest invites public and private Middle School and High School student teams to create a 30-second PSA from one of the following topics:
Topic 1: Standing Your Ground: Fighting Peer Pressure from Friends to Drink
Topic 2: How Does Social Media Affect Under-21 Alcohol Use
Topic 3: Dangers of Under-21 Alcohol Consumption
Student teams who submit a quality video entry to the contest will earn 5 SSL hours. Student teams will be awarded SSL hours in May 2025 if their submission meets all the contest requirements.
Video Entry Rules
All entries must be 30 seconds in length. Slates and credits cannot be overlaid onto the PSA or included in the 30 second message allotment. Entries over 30 seconds will be disqualified.
Entries should not include copyrighted images without permission. Copyright materials include, but are not limited to magazines, books, DVDs, websites, films, YouTube, and music.
Background music and/or sounds should not interfere with any spoken language
Submissions must reflect thoughtful planning, insight into material researched, and accurate coverage of the content.
Entries should use creative cinematography and be persuasive to encourage the audience to pay attention to the message and act on it.
Only one entry per student.
All entries must have a sponsoring teacher. No individual entries will be accepted.
Check out the following website for more information,
https://montgomerycountymd.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=754713
International Night, Friday, February 21, 2025, 6-8PM, in the Cafeteria - please sign up & come, it's a free event!!
Do you love to cook traditional food from your heritage culture? Do you love to wear traditional fashion that is representative of your culture? Do you play an instrument, love to sing, and/or dance? Do you love school spirit and learning about the diverse cultures represented at our school? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then you should mark your calendar to attend International Night and hopefully participate! See details below:
Are you skilled in an area of leadership? Do you want experience creating your own leadership workshop? We have an opportunity for you! Do you want to enhance your presentation and public speaking skills? Do you want to inspire a group of future leaders? We have an opportunity for you! Apply to be a workshop creator or presenter for our Next Generation Leadership Day on March 22nd, 2025. For more details about participating in this event and being a workshop presenter or creator, check out the application info: https://bit.ly/NGLD2025application
The deadline to submit a workshop is Monday, January 20th and the deadline to apply to be a workshop presenter is Monday, February 3rd.
All workshop creator submissions can earn 10 SSL hours. Students who are chosen and participate as workshop presenters will earn 15 SSL hours.
Support the SVHS Birds Of Play and the spring musical, Once Upon A Mattress!
Show shirts: our purple short sleeve shirt has a full color show ogo on the front and a list of all cast and crew on the back! A great way to royal-ize your wardrobe. Shirts are $20 and orders must be placed by Feb 1. https://bit.ly/MattressShirtSV
Program Ads/ Space in the program:
Business Ads: Promote a local business and connect with our theatre community.
Personal Shoutouts: Send a special message to your favorite cast or crew member—celebrate their hard work and dedication!
Ads are due by March 1. https://bit.ly/MattressAdSV
Email Ms Fellows at joanna_c_fellows@mcpsmd.org if you have questions or would like to discuss sponsorship opportunities!
Green Team News!
Seneca Valley High School is participating in the MCPS Food Recovery Program! We have set up three carts in the cafeteria where students can place any packaged, non-perishable food they don’t want from their school lunch. Additionally, there is a small refrigerator next to the microwave for students to place packaged perishable items, such as milk, juice, string cheese, fruits, vegetables, and more.
The recovered food will be available to students at dismissal. From 2:30 to 2:45 PM, the carts will be stationed in the cafeteria, offering all the food that was collected during lunch.
Please join us in reducing food waste and increasing student access to food. This is a Green Team initiative! See the following visual for more details:
Spotlight on Digital Citizenship
Digital Citizenship: This week, teachers will deliver the first of three lessons that are part of MCPS’s commitment to teaching digital citizenship. In acknowledgment of Digital Learning Day, students will be encouraged to take steps to protect privacy and security online. Related family activities (English | Spanish) and tip sheets (English | Spanish | Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Russian, Tagalog, Urdu, and Vietnamese ) from Common Sense Education help parents and caregivers engage in this learning with their children. In addition, the Common Sense Education YouTube Channel, Parenting in a Digital Age, and the webpage Digital Citizenship Resources for Family Engagement, provide additional resources for families.
SVHS Student and Family Resource Page
SVHS Student and Family Resource Page
Click here for a list and links to resources and supports available for students and families in the Seneca Valley Community.
Dual Enrollment
Registration for the Spring semester of Dual Enrollment/Jump Start to College begins at the end of this month! The three classes offered at SVHS will be Introduction to Nutrition, Introduction to the Study of Ethics, and Introduction to Business. Students may also take classes at Montgomery College or virtually. Qualifying students may take up to 2 approved MC courses in the Fall and Spring semesters with MCPS/MC covering tuition, fees, and required textbooks and materials. Please contact Stacey Blaine at Stacey_J_Blaine@mcpsmd.org if you have any questions.
Chromebook Care
Families, many students are reporting damage to Chromebooks. Please know that each student is financially responsible for damage caused or loss of any Chromebook and charger that is checked out to the student. The device is loaned to the student to be used for instructional purposes only and in accordance with MCPS Regulation IGT-RA, User Responsibilities for Computer Systems, Electronic Information, and Network Security. No cost is associated for a student to borrow, possess, or use an MCPS Chromebook. A family is only financially responsible when there is avoidable damage to the device. If the device is faulty, there is no charge to the family; however, if the damage is considered avoidable or the device or charger is lost, the family will be charged according to MCPS current parts and replacement costs.
*The chart above identifies the costs associated with fixing or replacing a Chromebook due to avoidable damage, theft, or loss, and was shared with students in Homeroom on the 1st day of school. For more information about student Chromebook responsibilities, please see the Chromebook Acceptable Use Policy, available in both English and Spanish.
Parents and guardians - if your student is in grade 9, new to MCPS, or if you have not previously submitted the G-Suite for Education: Additional Services form, please give your student(s) permission to access and use technology resources as part of their learning experience. Access to the form is via ParentVUE, as part of the Annual Verification process.
From Technology Information and Support for Parents:
What is Annual Verification and how do I do this in ParentVue?
In the past, yellow emergency cards and a variety of other forms were sent home with students on the first day of school so that families could communicate updates about contact information, health, directory withholdings, emergency contacts, and more. This process will now take place in ParentVUE using Online Registration.
Failure to provide consent to Additional Services and Supplemental Online Digital Tools will not result in loss of access to the G-Suite Core Services, but will limit access to other technology resources used to facilitate teaching and learning. Consent remains valid for the entire time the student is enrolled in an MCPS high school and may be rescinded at any time.
Seneca Valley PTSA
Dear families,
The PTSA hopes everyone is doing well during these times of many changes. Remember to stand strong as a community let’s be there for each other and provide support to our friends and families. Remember to be kind because we don’t know the storm that someone may experiencing. Let us continue being the Seneca Valley strong community we always are.
PTSA MEETING: Join us on Tuesday, February 18th at 6:30pm in the school’s media center. Mr. Hernandez, our school Principal will be presenting SVHS Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The PTSA would love to see you and personally say hello.
Agenda
President welcome
Principal updates
Open for attendee questions
Treasurer budget updates
Plans for the rest of the school year
Committee Updates
Thank you to those who were able to go out and support our fundraiser at Hangry Joes. We hope you enjoyed the menu item ordered. To those who weren’t able to make it, don’t worry we’ll do this again soon. We appreciate all of you however you support SVHS.
Stay connected with what’s going on in the SVHS community. Join the PTSA Facebook page: Facebook
Chantal
SVHS, PTSA President (2024-2025)
💚🦅💛
Have questions or concerns. Email us at svhsptsapres@gmail.com.
SVHS Boosters
We are currently looking for 3 key individuals. Can you help out in any of these 3 areas? Boosters needs Committee Chairs for Fundraising, a Nominating Committee, and a Concessions Chair.
Join us for one of our Upcoming events:
Upcoming events:
Monday - Boys/Girls Basketball vs Gaithersburg @ 5:30/7:15
Tuesday - Boosters meeting 6:30 in the cafeteria
Many hands make light work, sign up here:
Have fresh produce delivered right to your door with the Seasonal Roots fundraiser:
Have an idea you’d like to share? Join us for our next meeting on Tuesday February 11 at 6:30pm in the cafeteria!
Review the minutes from our most recent meeting here:
Are you the parent of a freshman or sophomore? We’d love for you to be a part of the boosters team. Many rolls are simple to fulfill & help make our organization be the best it can be! Thank you for considering!
Best,
Tisha Chrobak
Seneca Valley High School Booster President 2024-2025
Extracurricular Activities Information
We welcome you to engage with Seneca Valley in a new way this school year!
Check out our non-athletic Extra Curricular Clubs and Activities! From study groups to competitive dance to cultural celebrations to Dungeons and Dragons and beyond - there's something here for everyone!
Reach out to sponsors of clubs you're interested in or fill out the interest form to be included in back-to-school messages about clubs. Check out our current offerings. SVHS ECA OFFERINGS
Notes From the SVHS College & Career Center
Mr. Nalda, SVHS College & Career Information Coordinator (email)
Mid-Year Transcripts are Now Available
FYI that mid-year transcripts are now in and have been uploaded into Naviance. If you require a mid-year transcript to be sent as part of your application or colleges are requesting, please reach out to your counselor. They will be able to verify your request in Naviance and send along to those colleges.
Tracking College Admissions & Merit Scholarship Offers in Naviance
Many seniors have already received college admissions decisions. Please keep track of ALL admissions results and merit scholarships for ALL colleges you applied to in Naviance. This will help us celebrate SVHS seniors for our annual college acceptance wall!
Once you hear back from colleges via email or letter, please record your results in Naviance:
How to update admission decisions/results in Naviance: video instructions
If you were accepted and offered a merit scholarship, congratulations! Here is how to add your offered scholarship in Naviance (video instructions)
Note: Under $ Awarded, enter the amount. If you see that your award is renewable, please multiply the amount by four (for four years of college).
If you have been offered multiple academic scholarships, you may title them by using the name of the college or the name of the scholarship.
For example: “University of Florida - Merit Scholarship” OR “Trustee Scholarship - Purdue U.” (etc.)
If you need assistance, feel free to reach out to Mr. Nalda or your counselor. Thank you!
2025–26 FAFSA® Form - Deadline for the State of Maryland is March 1st!
The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is now available. To be considered for state financial aid for the 2025-2026 school year, students must create this account, complete the FAFSA no later than March 1, 2025, and add Maryland schools to their FAFSA.
Click to learn more | SVHS Financial Aid Guide for Seniors | In-Class Presentation (from English classes)
MCPS Summer RISE Application Closes on February 18! (Sophomores & Juniors)
MCPS Summer RISE Application Closes on February 18! (Sophomores & Juniors)
The Summer RISE Application is now open and will close Tuesday, February 18 at 5 PM.
No late applications will be accepted!
Click here for the flyer with more information
LINK TO APPLY*
https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/partnerships/summer-rise/
*Note that students must be logged into their MCPS student account in order to access the form and register.
College & Career Representative Visits
Upcoming College & Career Center Visits:
RSV Pools, Inc. (summer jobs for students) - Wed February 19 @ 11:12 AM (lunch)
Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service Opportunities - Thu February 20 @ 11:24 AM (lunch)
*No registration in Naviance needed. Stop by the cafeteria any time during lunch to learn more about opportunities from the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service.
U.S. Army Recruiter, Lunch Visit - Fri February 21 @ 11:12 AM (lunch)
*No registration in Naviance needed. Stop by the cafeteria anytime during lunch to learn more about the U.S. Army.
Attention Current Juniors - Are you interested in an Internship or Apprenticeship during your senior year?
If you are interested in an internship for this summer or next school year? If so, please follow the steps below:
Complete the Internship Interest Google Form (link)
Check your school email for an email with a link to a slideshow all about internships and a link to join the Canvas Course to apply
Check out the SVHS Internship website (link) for general information, frequently asked questions, & an application timeline
If you are interested in an apprenticeship that begins this summer & continues next school year, please follow the steps below.
Work on creating a resume & cover letter. Use this resource to help you: Resume & Cover Letter Resource
Stop by & see Mrs. Skufca in room 1410 to review your resume & cover letter and discuss next steps.
Current opportunities available through MCPS:
IEC School to Electrical Apprenticeship Program - application opens in March; in person open house on February 4 & virtual open house on February 5. See flyer for IEC Open House Information (link) Must have a valid driver's license.
Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician - will take a class at MC this spring & begin work over summer
Montgomery Recreation - will be looking for lifeguards & recreation assistants
Please stop by and see Mrs. Skufca, Internship & Apprenticeship Teacher, in room 1410 or email (Kimberly_K_Skufca@mcpsmd.org) with any questions.
Upcoming Scholarships
Upcoming Scholarships
February 17 - HBCU Week Scholarship - $40,000; senior; U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident; complete or have completed high school with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (unweighted) and be entering their freshman year of college; attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) for the entirety of their college education; financial need; 1 Letter of Recommendation from a teacher, community member or employer; transcript; proof of acceptance at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU); acceptance letters can be submitted through 4/11/25.
February 17 - LexisNexis® Risk Solutions Group Scholarship - $10,000; senior; U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident; complete or have completed high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (unweighted) and be entering their freshman year of college; attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) for the entirety of their college education; financial need; proof of acceptance at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU); acceptance letters can be submitted through 4/11/25.
February 17 - HBCU Week x NFL Scholarship - $10,000; senior; U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident; complete or have completed high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (unweighted) and be entering their freshman year of college; attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) for the entirety of their college education; financial need; transcript; proof of acceptance at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU); acceptance letters can be submitted through 4/11/25.
February 17 - HBCU Week x AstraZeneca Scholarship - $25,000 – $132,000; senior; open to students entering an HBCU and majoring in any STEM or supply chain related majors working towards a bachelor’s degree; U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident; complete or have completed high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (unweighted) and be entering their freshman year of college; attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) for the entirety of their college education; financial need; proof of acceptance at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU); acceptance letters can be submitted through 4/11/25.
February 20 - The Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship - one award of $10,000 and six awards of $5,000; senior; open to vegetarian and vegan students; write an essay addressing different points on vegetarianism, including how you promoted vegetarianism in your high school and/or community and why it is important to you; copy of transcript; three or more recommendations (at least one teacher); any documentation related to your promotion of vegetarianism in high school and/or community including photographs, newspaper stories, etc.
February 28 - Cancer Pathways 2025 Teen Writing Contest - $1,000 cash prizes; open to 9th-12th graders who are impacted by cancer and live in the United States; essay length must not exceed 1,500 words; not eligible: poems, essays about a pet, or fiction; essays must be original content of the author and in their own voice; winners will be asked to fill out a IRS W-9 form; winners will be invited to a virtual celebration and asked to read their essays.
February 28 - Pearls of Hope Community Foundation (POHCF) HBCU Scholarship - $2,000 award (renewable for up to four years); senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; plan to attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU); min 2.5 unweighted or 3.5 weighted GPA; must be able to document service-learning hours with outstanding community service; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Bernadine Pindell STEM Scholarship - $1,500 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; major in mathematics, engineering or a STEM field; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Community Service Award - $1,500 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; recognition for considerable community service activity during high school; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF The Modern Leaders Scholarship - $1,500 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; recognition of their willingness to give back to their community through local activism and/or entrepreneurship, as well as their high academic performance and demonstration of leadership potential; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Reach for Tomorrow Scholarship - $1,500 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; students that have shown remarkable character and perseverance despite personal challenges; these students have shown grit, determination, resiliency, and a need for financial assistance to continue their education after graduation; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Discovery Scholarship - $1,000 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student that is following their own path by seeking enrollment in a community college, trade or vocational school in Montgomery County; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Beatrice W. Crutchfield Scholarship - $1,000 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student who plans to pursue a degree in education; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Ayanna Cray-Prather Scholarship - $1,000 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student who has a passion for and plans to pursue a degree in education; student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 (unweighted) scale or 3.5 on a 5.0 (weighted) scale; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Dr. Clive Jackson Scholarship - $1,500 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student who plans to major in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM); two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Partica Moore-Batten Scholarship - $2,000 award; senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student who plans to major in education attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU); two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - POHCF Jacqueline A. Rose HBCU Scholarship - $1,500 award (renewable for up to four years); senior and reside (have a home address) in Montgomery County and/or attend a Montgomery County Public School; for a student who will be attending a Historically Black College or University in the fall; two (2) letters of recommendation; mail an OFFICIAL transcript (first quarter or semester of 12th grade) from the school registrar in a sealed envelope received by application deadline; essay of up to 500 words; finalists will be contacted to interview in April; read all instructions and guidelines carefully.
February 28 - Macklin Business Institute (MBI) Honors Program at Montgomery College - senior; min 3.0 GPA; provides a collegiate experience that parallels that of the best business schools in the country, bringing together highly talented students with an interest in business; the two-year program is designed for incoming MC freshmen, while the one-year program is for second-year college students; upon completion of the program, students will have had unique opportunities which will expand your transfer options; click on the link for more details.
Please note: students must have already applied to MC and received their M Number before they can begin the application! Apply to MC ASAP! (click here for the link)
February 28 - TheDream.US National Scholarship - up to a maximum of $16,500 for an associate degree and $33,000 for a bachelor’s degree at one of our Partner Colleges (see list); senior; min 2.5 GPA; undocumented and came to the United States before November 1, 2019, and have continuously lived in the United States since then or have DACA or TPS; eligible for in-state tuition at the Partner College you want to attend; significant financial need; family's financial info; essays; responsibilities.
February 28 - DC National Naval Officers Association - awards starting at $1,000; for minority youth from the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area based on academic achievement, positive community involvement, commitment, and financial need; senior; must enroll full-time at a two or four-year accredited college or university; transcript and/or SAT/ACT score report; listing of extracurricular activities, community service activities, academic honors, and positions of leadership; statement of financial need and/or special circumstances/compelling situation; two (2) letters of recommendation; recent photograph; short BIO; click here to review instructions.
Click here to see the SVHS Scholarships Page for more opportunities.
Other Opportunities
Other Opportunities
Trio EOC FAFSA Fest
In partnership with the Montgomery College Office of Financial Aid, EOC Trio will be hosting the FAFSA Fest, February 17- 21, 2024, from 9:30 A.M. - 6:30 P.M. We encourage students in need of assistance completing the FAFSA or other financial aid forms to register for this free community event.
3 different campuses with appointment times available.
Registration is open now at https://bit.ly/fafsa-fest-appointment. | Click here or the flyer.
More information:
240-567-5644
mceoc@montgomerycollege.edu
Virtual SAT® & ACT® Practice Tests with The Princeton Review
Virtual SAT® & ACT® Practice Tests with The Princeton Review
Join us virtually to take a free, full-length practice SAT and/or ACT. After the test, you’ll receive a comprehensive, interactive score report detailing your strengths and areas for improvement so you can be ready for the official exam.
SAT® & ACT® Practice Tests
take anytime on or after...
SAT: Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 @ 9am
ACT: Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 @ 9am
Click here for more information and to register.
For more information, contact Alyson Osgood at alyson.osgood@review.com.
Exelon Foundation Boys to STEM Academy
Exelon Foundation Boys to STEM Academy
Calling all young men interested in energy and sustainability! Embark on a free electrifying week of energy, climate change, and leadership at the Exelon Foundation Boys to STEM Academy. Unleash your curiosity through hands-on projects, a weeklong energy challenge, and immersive experiences that blend STEM with essential leadership skills. Explore sustainable energy solutions and become part of a community shaping the future.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore, learn, and lead towards a sustainable future!
The Exelon Foundation Boys to STEM Academy is a free week-long, residential leadership program for young men at the University of Maryland, College Park. The program runs July 27th to August 1st, 2025.
Who should apply? Current 10th and 11th grade boys
All applications are due by Tuesday, April 1, 2025. | Informational webinar February 20, 2025.
Learn more and apply, go to: www.exelonstemacademy.org or click here for the flyer | Questions? Contact Tyler Cvitkovic at tcvitkovic@need.org.
Exelon Foundation STEM Academy
Exelon Foundation STEM Academy
Come participate in a free program designed for young women interested in energy & sustainability! Ready to dive into an exciting field and make a difference in the world? Join us for the Exelon Foundation STEM Academy, a free, week-long, residential leadership program at the University of Maryland, College Park! Designed just for young women curious about energy and sustainability, this program offers hands-on workshops, interactive field trips, and small group discussions with inspiring women leaders from across the region. You’ll build leadership skills, collaborate on real-world energy projects, and even compete for prizes in an exciting energy challenge! Plus, each participant will receive an iPad for program activities—yours to keep after the Academy wraps up.
Come participate in a free program designed for young women interested in energy & sustainability! The program runs July 27th to August 1st, 2025.
Who should apply? Young women currently in 10th or 11th grade
All applications are due by Tuesday, April 1, 2025. | Informational webinar: February 20, 2025.
Learn more and apply, go to: www.exelonstemacademy.org or click here for the flyer | Questions? Please contact Evelina Juarez at ejuarez@need.org.
Student Athletes, Families, and Screaming Eagle Fans!
Please see link for this week’s Weekly update from the athletic department.
News from the Business and Finance Office
Business Office: Mrs. Monique Riddick, School Business Administrator, 240-740-6413
Finance Office: Ms. Lillian Burgos, School Financial Specialist, 240-740-6414
Finance Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The window is closed daily from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Students may visit the finance office before school, during lunch, and after school.
Payments may be made using School Cash Online or in cash, check, and money order at the finance window. All checks should be made payable to Seneca Valley High School or SVHS. Please include the student’s name and ID number on all checks. Returned check fees are $25.00 per check and are obligated toward the student’s account until paid. This includes checks collected as part of fundraisers.
Obligations: All outstanding obligations must be paid in order for students to participate in extracurricular activities such as athletics, clubs, Homecoming and Prom. Seniors with outstanding obligations will not be permitted to participate in senior activities including the graduation commencement ceremony. Outstanding obligations may be viewed and paid at https://mcpsmd.schoolcashonline.com/.
Parking Permits: The Student Parking Application Form must be completed and submitted to the Business Office for approval. Please contact Monique_N_Riddick@mcpsmd.org with any questions or concerns. The Seneca Valley High School student parking information and regulations can be found here.
SchoolCash Online
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Montgomery County Public Schools has transitioned to a new online payment system called SchoolCash Online as its preferred method of payment for school-related fees such as fundraisers, field trips, obligations, etc. (Please note that the new payment system is NOT related to school cafeteria accounts)
SchoolCash Online helps parents/guardians and community members pay school-related fees safely, quickly, and easily. SchoolCash Online 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. In addition, once registered, you will be immediately informed about school activities!
Powered by KEV Group, SchoolCash Online is the industry leader in the management of school fees. The new system puts all of the school-related fees online for purchase so users can make purchases online using a credit card or e-check. A processing fee will be included on all items available for purchase, regardless of the type of payment used on SchoolCash Online or at the school.
Parents/guardians can register now at - https://mcpsmd.schoolcashonline.com/
MCPS CODE OF CONDUCT AND STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
MCPS CODE OF CONDUCT AND STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
The MCPS Code of Conduct and A Student's Guide to Rights & Responsibilities will be distributed to all students in September.
They are also online at http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/students/rights.
Safety Tips for Walkers
Cross the street at marked crosswalks whenever possible.
Stop and look every time before crossing streets, even when you have the right-of-way, and especially at intersections with "right turn on red."
Before crossing, look left, right, then left again, and over your shoulder for turning vehicles.
Begin crossing the street on "Walk" signals-never on a solid or flashing "Don't Walk."
Use pedestrian pushbuttons to activate/extend the walk signal.
Use sidewalks. If none, walk facing traffic so you see vehicles, and drivers see you.
Make eye contact with drivers so they see you. Never assume they do.
Stay visible after dark and in bad weather with reflectors or retroreflective clothing.
Welcome to Safe Schools Maryland
An ANONYMOUS and FREE reporting system available to students, teachers, school staff members, parents, and the general public to report any school or student safety concerns, including mental health concerns.
Safe Schools Maryland is Maryland’s only official anonymous reporting system.
Safe Schools Maryland operates twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year.
Your anonymous report can be submitted by calling the tip line (1-833-MD-B-SAFE / 1-833-632-7233), completing an online form (below), or downloading the free Safe Schools Maryland app from the App Store or Google Play.
PARENT VOLUNTEER TRAINING
PARENT VOLUNTEER TRAINING
The MCPS Volunteer webpage has been updated.
https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/student-leadership/volunteer.aspx
On that webpage, you will find updates for SY24-25 and a chart for “who needs what.” There is also a resource on the far right called: School Guidance for Volunteers. If there are any volunteers who did this process last year, then they are good for this year. Any new volunteers would need to complete the compliance measures listed below.
One-time volunteers who will ALWAYS be accompanied by MCPS staff
One-time volunteers who will never be alone with students at the MCPS school do NOT need to complete the compliance measures.
They WILL need to check-in and check-out of the main office and scan their driver's license/identification cards through the Visitor Management System (VMS). Once the volunteer clears the VMS, they must be badged (the VMS creates a sticker badge) and remain under supervision of an MCPS professional while with students.
Volunteers who will be attending field trips or supporting the school as a regular volunteer (This includes, but is not limited to Dads on Duty participants)
These volunteers must complete BOTH the online child abuse and neglect training and the COVID attestation process.
Volunteers can pull their grade sheet showing a total of 183.3%. This grade shows completion of both processes.
They WILL need to check-in and check-out of the main office and scan their driver's license/identification cards through the Visitor Management System (VMS).
Once the volunteer clears the VMS, they must be badged (the VMS creates a sticker badge) and remain under supervision of an MCPS professional while with students.
Volunteers who will be attending field trips or supporting the school as a frequent volunteer AND will be alone with students.
In addition to the online child abuse and neglect training and the COVID attestation compliance measures, the volunteer must have completed the finger printing process.
Fingerprinting/Background check (only if they are working alone with students without supervision of an MCPS staff member or other type of volunteer service, per the Volunteers regulation and FAQ )
Fingerprinting Webpage
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