SVHS GREEN AND GOLD
Community Newsletter
Community Newsletter
Good afternoon, Seneca Valley!!
I hope everyone is having a good weekend. Interim grades should be available soon. If you or your student is having any issues please contact your students counselor and administrator.
Wiring of the Vape detectors is almost complete. Once the detectors are functional and ready to go I will provide an update to the community.
Please make sure you read updates from our PTSA, Boosters, and Athletics.
We will have a Senior Parent meeting This Wednesday 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
March is Theatre In Our Schools Month! We're kicking it off with a Thespian Spirit Week!
What's a Thespian? The word thespian comes from Thespis, a Greek performer from the 6th century BCE who is often credited as the first actor to step out of the chorus and speak lines independently in a play. His innovation in ancient Greek theatre laid the foundation for modern acting, making thespian a lasting term for actors and theatre artists. In Thespis's honor, we are the International Thespian Honor Society.
SVHS Minority Scholars Program (MSP) is doing wonderful things!!!
Members of the SVHS MSP created a film to enter into the 2nd Annual MSP Anti-Racist Film Festival and they were finalists!!! Their student created and edited film was played in front of an audience on Saturday, February 22, 2025 and was judged on creativity, execution, and impact. They REPRESENTED so well between student hosting, sitting on a panel discussion, and talking about the vision behind their film with their fellow students! Pictured: Fatoumata Barry, Oumie Kaira, and Mariama Balde at AFI Silver Theatre, Silver Spring, MD. There are additional students not pictured who were involved in the creation of the film and we are so proud of ALL of their creative hard work!!!
Additionally, a group of MSP students volunteered at Sally K. Ride ES's Black History Month Celebration on Wednesday, February 26. They greeted and handed out goodie bags to students and their families with a smile and helped oversee the various activity stations. They even helped lead the group in singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and ending the celebration with the "Cha Cha Slide." It was such an impactful and engaging event! It is so important for us to stay connected and support our local community. Keep making us proud, SVHS MSP!!!
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Markia Chambers
Seneca Valley High School
Graduation Readiness, Paraeducator
Best Buddies Co-Sponsor
Minority Scholars Program (MSP) Co-Sponsor
Student Parking Reminder
Student parking is by permit only. Students who continue to park in the school parking lot without a valid second semester parking permit are subject to ticketing and towing of the vehicle. Some vehicles have received multiple tickets and have not paid the fines. As a result, a parking violation sticker will be placed on the window to notify the tow company the vehicle is ready for tow. If your vehicle has been towed, please contact Henry’s Wrecker Services at 301-869-4800. Please contact the finance or business office to pay for any outstanding parking tickets.
Thank you!
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!
Lee Ann Wolfe
Class of 2025 Co-Sponsor
Seal of Biliteracy celebration!
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JDL26gtD5RBMIT_itId1dB_7BEsFsd8V-x61nGzgBFk/edit?usp=sharing
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the celebration for all test takers on Tuesday, February 25th in the cafeteria. Please see attached slideshow for photos of the event. If you were not able to attend, Ms. Hanford will deliver your certificate and official score report to you in the next few weeks. Any questions, please reach out to Ms. Hanford
Support SVHS HOSA Club
Dear SENECA VALLEY HS Friends and Families,
SENECA VALLEY HOSA is having a fundraiser at Jersey Mike's on FRIDAY, MARCH 7TH. Please come out and help support our club.
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 fund raiser runs all day on FRIDAY, MARCH 7TH from 10am-9pm so take a break from cooking dinner or go for lunch. Our team appreciates all your support.
Please click the link for more information: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13IZbGELxsrryQ4_9gXst-uA1rYuy_QsIaRs5x7_gUcY/edit?tab=t.0
Thank you!
International Night
The French and Spanish Honor Societies hosted the 10th annual International Night Friday evening, February 21st from 6-8 p.m in the cafeteria. We had a wonderful turnout and audiences were dazzled by the dance teams from Water's Landing Elementary School, performances from our Screaming Eagle students and the Latin Eagles Big Band plus the fashion parade and flag parade to end the event. We had many families and students who shared their culture and heritage with tri-fold posters, realia and food. Thank you for supporting our students and celebrating our diverse cultures! Check out the slideshow of pictures below;
Frankenstein Retellings
IB Lit HL Year 1 students created Retellings of scenes in Frankenstein through various Critical lenses. We then spent a Friday in February reading, eating and learning from each other.
MYP Personal Project Updates:
🛑 FINAL REQUIREMENT: MYP PP Final Report: Students must complete their MYP Final Report, the last requirement to earn credit for MYP Research Seminar. Students complete this report through Canvas using a template.
Due date: Thurs. Feb. 27th.
If your student is enrolled in health this semester: On Feb. 13 and 14th, students worked on their MYP Final Report in their Health class.
If you student is NOT enrolled in Health this semester: Students should have signed up for a Final Report workshop to help them complete this final requirement. Please check with your student. If they have not registered, please have them sign up via this form.
📌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.
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 the links provided below! 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 21st.
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!
Clarksburg Closet is thrilled to be hosting its 4th annual Prom Dress Giveaway event this year on Saturday, March 15th, from 10am-2pm at Cedarbrook Community Church in Clarksburg, and we’re hoping that you (local high school principals) can help us spread the word! Last year we had so many grateful girls attend from throughout the county, and we gave away over 350 FREE dresses (as well as shoes & accessories)!
Emily Lederer
Clarksburg Closet volunteer & communications coordinator
Sustainability Poster Contest
All MCPS students and staff members are invited to participate in the Division of Sustainability and Compliance's (DSC) 2025 Sustainability Poster Contest. The contest seeks to increase awareness and demonstrate the importance of environmental sustainability, energy conservation, waste reduction, and responsible recycling. All art must be a student or staff member's original work and not contain copyrighted elements. Posters should be no smaller than 8.5 inches by 11 inches and must not exceed 18 inches by 24 inches in size.
Please submit posters to DSC, 45 W. Gude Drive, Suite 4000, Rockville, by Friday, April 4, 2025. For more information, email or call 240-740-3210.
More information: Contest Flyer
To enter, complete the Contest Entry Form
Read about Contest Guidelines
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
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:
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!
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
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.
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 be going through. Let us continue being the Seneca Valley strong community we always are.
PTSA MEETING: Join us on Tuesday, March 18th at 6:30pm in the school’s media center. A virtual option will also be available. There will be a couple guests at this meeting. More details to follow. Looking forward to seeing you.
Call for volunteers
2025-2026 PTSA Executive Board volunteers needed
The PTSA is looking for nominations for all Executive Board positions for the 2025-2026 school year. See list below. The PTSA plays a vital role in keeping parents, the community and the school connected and we want this to continue. Continuing work benefits the students and the school community as a whole. However, to make this possible, we need dedicated and passionate parents to take the reins and continue this much needed work. You will not be alone, you will have lots of help you transition and learn should you choose to take on one of these amazing roles. We ask that you give whatever time you can. If you are interested, please send an email to svhsptsapres@gmail.com.
President (Oversee the overall PTSA activities)
1st Vice President (Community Outreach)
2nd Vice President (Fundraising)
Treasurer (Financial activities)
Secretary (Administrative Support)
If being on the executive board is not your thing, we also need help to lead/chair some of our committees as well. If you would like to learn more about any of the committees below, please email svhsptsapres@gmail.com.
Membership Committee (Involvement - beginning of the school year through early January)
Staff Appreciation Committee (Involvement - Several times throughout the school year)
Fundraising Committee (Involvement - Ongoing throughout the school year)
AfterProm Committee (Involvement - late fall through event date)
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:
The girls basketball team has a home game tomorrow evening against Frederick at 6pm. This is round 2 of possibly 6. Concessions needs your help. Come on out at 5:30 to help in the indoor concession stand.
Let's support the girls!!!!
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)
2025–26 FAFSA® Form
The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is still available. Even though the March 1 priority deadline for the state of Maryland has passed, you can still submit to be eligible for federal aid and some state grants and scholarships.
Click to learn more | SVHS Financial Aid Guide for Seniors | In-Class Presentation (from English classes)
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!
College & Career Representative Visits
Next Week’s College & Career Center Visits:
Lincoln Technical Institute, Lincoln - Mon March 3 @ 10:45 AM
Smokey Glen Farm, Seasonal Jobs for Students - March 3, 2025 @ 11:12 AM (lunch)
No registration in Naviance needed. Stop by the SVHS cafeteria anytime during lunch to learn about part-time summer job opportunities at Smokey Glen Farm.
Attention Current Juniors - Are you interested in an Internship or Apprenticeship during your senior year?
Are interested in an internship for this summer or next school year?
Please stop by and see Mrs. Skufca, Internship & Apprenticeship Teacher, in room 1410 or email (Kimberly_K_Skufca@mcpsmd.org).
March 06 - McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship - different tiers of awards ranging from $5,000 - $100,000; senior; legal U.S. resident or a DREAMer/DACA recipient; have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage; younger than 21 years old; minimum 2.8 GPA; attend a two- or four-year college or university with a full-time course of study in the fall; transcript; personal statement; letter of recommendation to be submitted online; list of community service projects; FAFSA report and/or 1040s.
March 09 - AFCEA DC Scholarship Program - senior; U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident; acceptance to a U.S. accredited college or university in a four-year, full-time STEM curriculum for computer science, engineering [all], mathematics, physics, chemistry, cybersecurity, and management information systems; and Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I)-related fields of study including electrical, computer, chemical, aerospace, or systems engineering or electronics; list of school and extracurricular activities and awards; experience or work history; list of all expenses you expect to pay toward college and a short, written financial need statement; two letters of recommendation; summary and statement from Guidance Counselor; note: winners of full tuition scholarships are not eligible; click here for the flyer.
March 13 - HOLA at Microsoft Scholarships - three (3) $20,000 scholarships distributed over 4 years ($5,000 per year, renewable) and ten (10) $5,000 one-time awards; senior; min 3.0 GPA (unweighted); be of Hispanic and Latinx descent (for example, Mexican American, Cuban American, Brazilian, etc); U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident or be an individual granted deferred action status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program (DACA); enroll in full-time undergraduate study in Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, or one of the following Business programs- Business Administration, Finance or Marketing at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational school, in the U.S., for the entire upcoming academic year.
March 13 - Blacks at Microsoft Scholarships - 5- $5,000 scholarships (renewable per terms, see website) & 50- $2,500 one-time only scholarships; senior; min 3.0 GPA; must be of African descent (African American or African); attend four-year school in the fall; major in engineering, computer science, computer information systems, or select business programs (see link); passion for technology; leadership; financial need; one letter of rec.; resume; transcript; one essays; photo.
March 13 - Women at Microsoft Scholarships - 26 one-time awards of $5,000; senior; self-identify as a woman, non-binary, gender fluid or transgender woman; min 3.0 GPA (unweighted); plan to enroll in full-time in a tech, engineering, math, or computer science related undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school, in the U.S., for the entire upcoming academic year; transcript; one letter of recommendation; transcript; statement of career and educational goals and objectives; demonstrated financial need.
March 13 - Microsoft Disability Scholarship - 8 awards of $5,000 (renewable, see link for details); senior; min 2.5 GPA (unweighted); living with a disability as defined by WHO, including visual, hearing, mobility, cognitive, and/or speech disabilities or other disability; enroll in an undergraduate program at an accredited 2 or 4-year University/College or Vocational/Technical School, in the U.S., in the fall of the upcoming academic year; pursue a degree in the following eligible majors: engineering, computer science, computer information systems, law, business, or a related field (e.g. paralegal, pre-law, finance, business administration, or marketing); demonstrate a passion for technology; demonstrate leadership at school and/or in the community; require financial assistance to attend college; enrollment status must be full-time or half-time; transcript; essay; letter of recommendation.
Click here to see the SVHS Scholarships Page for more opportunities.
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.
Join our information session to learn more about IEC Chesapeake’s Electrical Apprenticeship programs. Learn about the expansive career opportunities in the electrical industry. Great opportunity for graduating seniors or those looking to change career paths!
In Person Event
March 4th, 2025 @ 6:30PM - 7:30PM | 8751 FREESTATE DR, SUITE 250, LAUREL, MD 20723*
*Use student training entrance (blue awning)
Virtual Event
March 5th, 2025 @ 6:30PM - 7:30PM
Click here to register | Click here for the flyer
The Summer Opportunities Fair is your chance to explore a wide range of volunteer, internship, and paid summer employment opportunities within the City of Gaithersburg. Whether you're seeking professional experience, personal growth, or community involvement, you'll find valuable options to fit your goals. Meet with employers, learn about available positions, and gain insights into how to make the most of your summer. Don't miss this opportunity to jumpstart your summer plans!
Available positions with: Summer Camps | Mini Golf | Aquatics | Police | Skate Park | Sports | Recreation Services
Wednesday, March 5 · 3:30 - 5:30pm EST | 506 South Frederick Avenue Gaithersburg, MD 20877
14+ years of age
Click here to pre-register | Click here for the flyer / Folleto con más información
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/
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.
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