SVHS GREEN AND GOLD
Community Newsletter
Community Newsletter
Good Evening Seneca Valley!!
I hope everyone is having a great weekend! This week we will not have school on Tuesday and have an early release on Friday with school ending at 12pm. Please see 1/2 day schedule below.
This week marks the the midterm of 1st quarter. Please make sure you are checking your students synergy for grades and progress. Should you need any assistance do not hesitate to contact your students counselor or administrator.
In Eagle time students have been working on the MCPS student expectations course. We realize there have been technical difficulties, this continues to be a priority as completion of the course not only offers students 3 SSL hours but is a requirement from MCPS. Below are student directions so they can be accessed from home.
Please make sure to check the newsletter for more updates.
Have a great Monday, and week on purpose!
Ricardo Hernandez, Principal
School PMD and ID Policies
Thank you to all the students who have gotten their IDs and those who are following the PMD policy. This will continue to be our focus this year. As a reminder here are our policies for IDs and PMDs.
Personal Mobile Device (PMD) Policy
The PMD policy is that students may use their PMD before school, during transition, lunch, and after school. PMDs, cannot be used during instruction time. This includes cell phones, headphones, earbuds, and personal computers.
Student ID's
All Seneca Valley students are required to have their school ID visible at all times during the school day. Students will receive reminders throughout the day.
Students are also required to show their physical ID to enter any school events. We will no longer accept IDs shown on phones through StudentVue.
If you have not been issued a physical ID or have lost your ID, please see Ms. Boone at the security office. Students can get one temporary ID if they leave their ID at home. If a student loses their ID, lanyard, or ID holder, there is a charge to replace them.
This is to continue our efforts on the safety and well-being of students and staff, not just during our instructional day, but at school events as well. Please help us by reminding your student to carry and display their ID daily.
MCPS Student Expectations Course
All students are REQUIRED to complete the MCPS Student Expectations Course.
Two Modules:
Culture of Respect
Code of Conduct/Rights & Responsibilities
Students will earn 3 SSL hours by completing both modules.
From Montgomery County Public Schools:
Help Shape Next Year’s School Calendar—Share Your Input!
MCPS is seeking input as it works to develop the 2026-2027 school calendar. Complete this survey by Tuesday, Sept. 30, to share your feedback. Your input is an important component of the development process. Take the survey today!
Next Round of Boundary Study Options Meetings Set for October
You spoke; we listened. Make plans to attend a boundary study option meeting in October. During public information meetings for the reopening of Charles W. Woodward High School, the opening of Crown High School and the expansion of Damascus High School, the community will learn more about refined boundary options for the 2027-2028 school year, including accompanying maps, articulation patterns, data tables and an interactive map tool. MCPS will also share surveys for each boundary study so that attendees can continue to provide meaningful feedback. See the opportunities to attend a virtual or in-person session.
Programs Analysis … Why Are We Doing It?
MCPS is designing a regional model of its academic programs to expand access so that more students—in more parts of the county—can participate in strong programs closer to home. Our goal is to achieve excellence and equity. By expanding regionally, we can reduce barriers such as distance and limited space, while maintaining the rigor and strength of existing programs. The Board of Education is expected to take final action in December 2025. Why is MCPS conducting this programs analysis? Read more.
Public Link for All Sessions = https://mcpstv-org.zoom.us/j/84717187605
9/29 from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. = NEC Families
9/29 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. = NEC Families
9/30 from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. = DCC Families
9/30 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. = DCC Families
10/22 from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. = Learn About the Proposed Six Region Model
10/22 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. = Learn About the Proposed Six Region Model
10/27 from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. = Learn About the Proposed Six Region Model
10/27 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. = Learn About the Proposed Six Region Model
Getting Into College and Making It Affordable
Join us for College Scholarship Info Night and learn how to make college affordable. Two sessions will be held:
o Oct. 7, 6-8 p.m., Montgomery College, Takoma Park Campus
o Oct. 9, 6-8 p.m., Montgomery College, Germantown Campus
Information at both sessions will be presented in English and Spanish. Register. Learn more.
And, don’t forget to register for the Sept. 25 webinar on MCPS’ new grading policy and the college admissions process. It will be held from 6:30-8 p.m.
Legislative Summit Highlights Key Priorities for 2026
The Board of Education held a legislative summit at Richard Montgomery High School to unveil its 2026 legislative platform. The four priorities were: regular review of graduation requirements, flexibility in community school spending, sliding scale fees for Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams based on income, and the option to meet either instructional hours or days requirements. Watch a recap.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Now a third grade teacher at Waters Landing Elementary School, Miguelina Tejada knew that becoming a teacher would allow her to contribute to creating a better future for her students. Drawing on her roots in the Dominican Republic, discover how her journey and heritage inspire her teaching. Read more.
Now You Know (Video Series) NEW This Week, Standard Response Protocol:
This week’s Now You Know video explains the new MCPS Standard Response Protocol—our clear, consistent steps for keeping students and staff safe whenever a serious incident happens.
Watch in English | Spanish | French | Chinese | Vietnamese | Amharic | Korean | Portuguese
Now You Know: What’s the Difference?
We use lots of digital tools in MCPS: ParentSquare, ParentVUE, Remind and Canvas or (MyMCPS Classroom). Confusing, isn’t it? So, what’s the difference? Let’s break it down.
Now You Know (Video Series) This Week, “What’s the Difference?: Watch in English | Spanish | French | Chinese | Vietnamese | Amharic | Korean | Portuguese
Montgomery Blair HS to Celebrate 100 Years
Montgomery Blair High School is holding a kickoff event for a yearlong celebration of its 100th anniversary. VIPs and dignitaries from county, state, and national education and community organizations will gather to launch the celebration, at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26 in the Blair auditorium, before the homecoming game. The celebration is being spearheaded by the Blair Alumni Association.
Beyond the Canvas: How Art Inspires Students at Blair G. Ewing Center
John Charles, art teacher at the Blair G. Ewing Center has spent the past seven years shaping the visual arts program, providing students with meaningful, creative outlets, while fulfilling their art credit requirements. Blair G. Ewing is one of MCPS’ alternative education programs, designed to support students who have been unsuccessful in their home schools for a variety of reasons. For Charles, art is more than paint, paper or digital tools. It’s a pathway for students to find pride, identity and voice. Learn more
Curiosity on Wheels: Students Step Inside the Cube
Sixth-grade students from Parkland Middle School gathered inside an open shipping container, leaning in with wide eyes and eager hands. This wasn’t just any container. It was MilliporeSigma's Curiosity Cube, a traveling science lab packed with activities designed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Learn more
In Case You Missed It!
Register for Saturday School. The tutoring sessions are available to students in K–12 in math and English/Language Arts and have in-person and virtual options.
Summer Student Service Learning hours are due by Friday, Sept. 26. September SSL opportunities.
MCPS welcomes volunteers! Here’s how to do it.
Free back-to-school immunizations are available through Sept. 30. Make an appointment.
Have a question? We’ve got answers. Ask the MCPS chatbot, call us or send us an email.
From The News Page
Stitch by Stitch: Fashion is a growing program in MCPS, with the district offering two courses, Fashion Illustration and Fashion Production, in nine high schools, nearly doubling since 2022.
Stay tuned to the news page for the latest information.
Stay Connected to MCPS
VISIT the MCPS homepage.
CALL 240-740-3000. Staff take calls from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, in English and Spanish (240-740-2845). Visit the AskMCPS website
READ news and information sent via email and text message and on the MCPS News page.
FOLLOW the MCPS social media pages:
x.com/mcps / facebook.com/mcpsmd / instagram.com/mcps_md facebook.com/mcpsespanol / x.com/MCPSEspanol / instagram.com/mcpsenespanol
SIGN UP for emails and text alerts and make sure your ParentVue information is up to date.
WATCH the MCPS cable channels Comcast 34 (1071 HD), Verizon 36 or RCN 89
More MCPS Resources
🍂 School Wellness Center Block Party 🍂
Celebrate the First Day of Fall With Us!
Join us for an afternoon of fun, food, and community at our School Wellness Center Block Party!
📅 Date: 9/22-2025
🕞 Time: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Location: SVHS Wellness Center around the bus loop
Enjoy:
• 🎶 Music
• 🍔 Delicious food
• 🎁 Raffles
• 🛒 Free food boxes for families provided by the Upcounty Hub
Bring your family and friends and help us welcome the fall season together. We can’t wait to see you there! 💙
PSAT Exam Day – Wednesday, October 15, 2025
The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, serves as a preliminary assessment that closely mirrors the format and content of the SAT, providing students with a simulation of the SAT testing experience. Administered to students predominantly in the 10th grade, the PSAT is a standardized examination with significant implications. Achieving a high score on the PSAT can qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program, offering financial support for college. This assessment not only functions as a practice test but also delivers valuable feedback to aid students in their preparation for the SAT, which play a pivotal role in the college admissions process. All 10th grade students are expected to take the exam and the cost is free. Although Grade 11 students must pay the $17 fee for the assessment, they are encouraged to participate to obtain additional SAT practice and participate in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Testing Date: October 15, 2025
Registration Fee: 10th Grade (Free), 11th Grade ($17)
11th Grade Payment Process: 11th Graders can pay for the assessment via their school online cash account at the following website: https://mcpsmd.schoolcashonline.com/
11th Grade Payment Deadline: September 26, 2025
Testing Schedule: Doors Open at 7:25 am; Testing Starts at 7:45 am
***Please note, since the school will be billed for tests that are ordered, no refund will be provided for 11th Grade students who are absent during the testing session. ***
SVHS and MCPS Attendance policy:
Once the late bell rings, students without a pass will be marked late.
High school students with excessive absences, both lawful and unlawful, may be referred for appropriate intervention. The school counselor will consult with the student and the parents/guardians, verify the reasons for the absences, and determine the appropriate interventions.
At the discretion of the principal/designee, students who demonstrate a pattern of absences may be referred to appropriate staff and/or outside agencies for intensive interventions designed to increase regular attendance.
School counselors/administrative teams may use an Attendance Intervention Plan (AIP) as a form of intervention to improve student attendance.
An AIP is developed for each of the student’s courses that have been identified for intervention.
Seal of Biliteracy
"Testing for the Seal of Biliteracy begins in October and ends in February. Seniors will have an opportunity to test EARLY on Wednesday, October 15th during the PSAT day (location tbd). Any senior who is interested may register via this link or scan the QR code below. The benefit of testing early could give you your scores before early decision for colleges.
Informational slides available in French and Spanish
If you have any questions, please reach out to Ms. Rebecca Hanford"
Join the Class of 2027 on Monday, September 22, from 5:00-8:00 pm!
SSL Opportunities!
For all things SSL at SVHS, please visit the Seneca Valley Counseling Services website and navigate to the SSL tab on the left side. There you’ll find lots of information including:
Steps to ensure your SSL activity is pre-approved
A video on how to fill out your SSL form (MCPS form 560-51) (make sure it's fully completed and signed!)
⭐️ NEW ⭐️ the Google form to submit your SSL form (MCPS form 560-51) SVHS SSL Submission Form
If you’re having trouble with the Google form, you can drop off completed paperwork at the Counseling Office or email it to me, Mrs. Duffy at Paulina_M_Duffy@mcpsmd.org
Be sure to include: your student ID and "SSL Form" in the subject line.
Please note: SSL hours are updated regularly and should appear in your student account by the end of each grading period.
Let’s make those hours count!
Thank you!
Mrs. Duffy
Click here for a list and links to resources and supports available for students and families in the Seneca Valley Community.
The Holiday Giving Project
The Holiday Giving Project has provided Thanksgiving and December holiday assistance to qualifying households for over 30 years. If you and your family are in need and would like to be referred for possible assistance for the holiday season, please complete this referral form provide the required information. Resources are limited: please apply only if you and your family are truly in need. Families can only be referred once; please do not complete a referral if you have already been referred from another school or agency. While a referral is not a guarantee of assistance, the Project helps as many families in need as donations allow. The deadline to complete the form to get referred on time for both the November and December holidays is October 22nd. If you need help completing the form please contact Ms. Ruiz Miller at 240-447-8963.
El Holiday Giving Project ha brindado asistencia para el Día de Acción de Gracias y los días festivos de diciembre a los hogares que califican durante más de 30 años. Si usted y su familia están en necesidad y les gustaría ser referidos para una posible asistencia durante la temporada de festividades, complete este formulario de referencia para proporcionar la información requerida. Los recursos son limitados: solicite solo si usted y su familia realmente lo necesitan. Las familias solo pueden ser referidas una vez. Por favor no complete este referido si ya le han referido de otra escuela o agencia. Si bien una referencia no es una garantía de asistencia, el Proyecto ayuda a tantas familias necesitadas como lo permitan las donaciones. La fecha límite para completar el formulario para ser referido a tiempo para el día de acción de gracias y las festividades de diciembre es el 22 de octubre. Si necesita ayuda para completar el formulario, comuníquese con la Sra. Ruiz Miller al 240-447-8963.
Google form link: https://forms.gle/hnYerXR1oGcn92RGA
Homecoming Dance:
Save the Date!
October 18, 2025
Homecoming Dance at Seneca Valley: Save the Date! October 18, 2025, 7:00 pm-10:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now for $20 and are available at https://mcpsmd.schoolcashonline.com/ . If you would like to bring a guest from a different MCPS school, please complete a guest form from the main office before purchasing your guest ticket. Ticket sales are limited, so purchase yours before we sell out. Students must be cleared of all financial obligations to attend the event.
SENIORS & SENIOR PARENTS!!!! Please make sure you save and/or favorite our Class of 2026 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.
Action: Complete the Google, YouTube, and Online Digital Consent Form
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.
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
SVHS PTSA
Greetings SVHS community
The PTSA is still in need of a new Executive Board for this school year, but it cannot be accomplished without your help. You will not be alone, prior board members will be there to assist. Send an email to svhsptsapres@gmail.com for more information.
The following positions are needed. However, at a minimum a President and Treasurer is needed to keep the board active. Please consider joining to continue keeping Seneca Valley HS. See role description below.
President (Oversee overall PTSA activities)
1st Vice President (Community Outreach)
2nd Vice President (Fundraising)
Treasurer (Financial activities)
Secretary (Administrative Support)
Join the SVHS PTSA! Visit the SVHS PTSA Store.
The PTSA is on Facebook: SVHS PTSA Facebook Page
SVHS also has a WhatsApp chat group: WhatsApp chat
Board Role Descriptions
President - is the presiding officer and the official representative of the association. The president presides at all meetings and plans the meeting agenda ahead of time with the PTSA secretary, utilizing input from others.
Treasurer - is the authorized custodian who manages the funds of the PTSA on behalf of the membership and the board of directors.
1st Vice-President (advocacy/communication) - shall perform the duties of president in the absence or inability of that officer to serve, and shall assist the president when called upon. In case of a vacancy in the office of president, the first vice president or the vice presidents in their order shall temporarily assume the duties until the vacancy is filled. This role involves working to enhance the communication between the PTSA, school, and families
2nd Vice-President (fundraising) - shall perform the duties of president in the absence or inability of that officer to serve, and shall assist the president when called upon. In case of a vacancy in the office of president, the first vice president or the vice presidents in their order shall temporarily assume the duties until the vacancy is filled. This role involves planning and organizing the fundraising activities to ensure that the revenue goals for the school year are met. Works closely with the fundraising committee.
Secretary - responsible for taking minutes and recording all business at every PTSA
meeting.
Acting SVHS PTSA President (2025-2026)
Chantal
SVHS Boosters
Join us for our first Boosters meeting of the year on Monday September 22 @ 6pm in the Cafeteria!
We are currently planning our Fall Yard Sale & Vendor Event for November 1. If you are interested in participating fill out this form:
https://forms.gle/hMfziCYVZSShrc8d8
Have fresh produce delivered right to your door with the Seasonal Roots fundraiser:
Best,
Tisha Chrobak
Seneca Valley High School Booster President 2024-2027
Not a member yet? Join here: https://square.link/u/7qiWt8kq
SVHS has over 80 clubs! From Dance to Robotics to Dungeons and Dragons, there is something for everyone!
Check out our Clubs Website: https://bit.ly/svhsECA to find clubs, schedules, and registration!
SkillsUSA is one of the co-curricular career and technology student organizations (CTSO) for CTE students. As part of SkillsUSA students have the opportunity to network, develop leadership skills, and to compete in skills competitions on the local, state, and national level. Last year Seneca Valley students won first place in Maryland in the customer service category and in the video game design category. Those students went on to the national competition in Atlanta! Part-time students can be a part of SkillsUSA. Please email Mr. Grindley for more information.
Student Service Learning Hours
Bilingual students may earn student service learning (SSL) hours by serving as interpreters and sharing their CTE experience at our student information nights on October 8th and October 21st. Please email me at Adrian_V_Charley@mcpsmd.org if you are interested.
Notes From the SVHS College & Career Center
Mr. Nalda, SVHS College & Career Navigator | Room 2408 | 240-740-6418 | Email
College applications are now open! The SVHS College Application Packet is the go-to document for applying to colleges at SVHS. It is a step-by-step guide on how to apply and includes everything that you need to complete. Please use this document to get started on college applications and follow all of the steps! You should bookmark or save the link to this document.
As students are starting their applications, we are noticing some of you are not completing all of the steps in order. For example, matching your Naviance account to your Common Application account. Also, signing and agreeing to the FERPA waiver. These important first steps need to be completed before being able to proceed with many of the other steps, including requesting letters of recommendation.
SVHS College Application Packet - Seniors Click Here!!!
Feel free to reach out to Mr. Nalda if you have any questions.
This Week’s College & Career Center Visits:
York College of Pennsylvania - Mon September 22 @ 9:40 AM
Capitol Technology University - Mon September 22 @ 12:05 PM
University of Massachusetts-Boston - Wed September 24 @ 8:40 AM
Washington College - Wed September 24 @ 12:15 PM
Ithaca College - Wed September 24 @ 1:05 PM
McDaniel College - Thu September 25 @ 9:40 AM
U.S. Air Force Recruiter, Lunch Visit - Thu September 25 @ 11:12 AM
Stop by the cafeteria anytime during lunch to learn more about the U.S. Air Force.
Seton Hall University - Thu September 25 @ 12:05 PM
Soka University of America - September 25 @ 12:55 PM
Click here to learn more and see who is scheduled to visit SVHS this Fall!
We are excited to announce that the College Fairs USA (Formerly Hispanic College Fair) will take place at Bohrer Park on Friday, October 10, 2025! Admission representatives will be there to answer your questions about Admission Requirements, College Essays, Financial Aid, Scholarships, and more. This college fair opportunity is open to students in 11th & 12th grade. Students of all races and ethnicities are welcome to attend this fair. This will be a field trip during the school day.
Field Trip Details:
Date: Friday, October 10, 2025
Location: Bohrer Park, 506 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Time: Students will depart SVHS at 11:00 am and return to school at 12:30 pm
Cost: FREE (MCPS bus transportation provided)
In order to participate in this field trip, students need to return a signed permission slip to Mr. Nalda in the College/Career Center, Room 2408. Click here, or students can obtain a paper copy from the Career Center.
Signed permission slip is due to Mr. Nalda (Room 2408) by Friday, September 26, at 12 pm.
Click here for more information and a list of participating schools
October 6, 2025
October 22, 2025
November 10, 2025
Ready to explore your future at one of Maryland’s private colleges or universities? In partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), join us for Private College Application Days and apply to MICUA institutions with no application fees!
This is your chance to take the next step without the usual costs—don’t miss out! Students can apply through the Common App or directly on each school’s website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
September 30 - QuestBridge National College Match - recipients granted early admission to one of QuestBridge's college partners with a full four-year scholarship (worth over $200,000); any high school senior, regardless of citizenship, is eligible (review Additional Citizenship Requirements); earned primarily A's in the most challenging courses available (Honors, AP, and/or IB); financial need as finalists typically come from households earning less than $65,000/year (household of 4).
September 30 - College JumpStart Gratitude Scholarship - $1,000; Current student (high school 10th-12th or college) or planning to enter college within the next 12 months; U.S. citizen or legal resident; answer one of two questions in 250 words or less; financial need is not considered nor are grades or test scores.
September 30 - Don't Text and Drive Scholarship - $1,000; grades 9-12 or entering college; U.S. citizen or legal resident; submit a 140-character statement about texting and driving.
September 30 - HostingAdvice.com Future Web Developers Annual Scholarship - $1,000 award; current or future college student (e.g., high school senior); must be a U.S. resident; minimum GPA of 3.5; majoring in a computer science-related field; complete an essay for submission (see essay guidelines on linked website); submit a cover letter outlining civic involvement and/or extracurricular activities; official transcript.
September 30 - The Home Depot Foundation Path to Pro Scholarship $2,500 Construction Careers Scholarships - $2,500 awards; high school senior, high school graduate or have a GED equivalent; plan to enroll, or be enrolled within 1 year, in an approved trade-related program at an accredited two-year school or institution (i.e. technical/vocational school, community college or training center) in the United States; not be an employee or dependent of an employee of the The Home Depot. Employees of The Home Depot and their dependents are eligible to apply for a scholarship from The Homer Fund; Programs/Career Paths: Carpentry, Construction Management, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing.
September 30 - The Donohue Family SkilPointe Scholarship for Skilled Trades - $2,000 awards; high school senior, pursuing or have obtained a high school diploma, GED or secondary education equivalent; available to individuals of all backgrounds pursuing vocational training in industries such as Construction, Communications, Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Public Service, Technology, and Transportation; enrolled or planning to enroll within one year, in a postsecondary educational training program (includes community college, technical or vocational schools, training centers).
September 30 - Going Merry Future Fund Scholarship - $500 no-essay award open to all high school students, no matter your post-graduation plans; money can be used for tuition, books, supplies, or other education-related costs; the application is quick and easy, with no GPA requirement.
September 30 - Coca-Cola Scholars Program* - (*deadline is 5pm on 9/30) 150-$20,000 awards; senior; U.S. Citizen, legal resident, refugee (see link for full eligibility list); min 3.0 GPA; achievement based scholarship; planning to pursue a college degree after high school; involved in school and community activities; transcript.
October 08 - AES Engineers Scholarship - $500 award; available to high school seniors and students attending a post secondary educational facility; scholarships are intended for our future leaders across a wide spectrum of fields of study; you are not required to be taking Engineering courses to be eligible; submit an essay of between 500 and 1000 words; see link for prompt.
Full-Ride Scholarships to Note
November 12 - The Cooke College Scholarship Program - multiple awards of up to $55,000/year to attend a four-year school; senior; min. 3.75 GPA (un-weighted); judged on persistence, service to others, and leadership; essays, letters of recommendation; financial need (will consider applicants with family income up to $95,000); students can apply via Common App.
Click here to see the SVHS Scholarships Page for more opportunities.
Are you ready for high scores on your SAT/ACT testing? The Learning Academy Online has the tools for success. Any high school student in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) may attend as many classes per registration as needed to accomplish their standardized testing goals.
Click here for the flyer with more information
Click below to see the recording and slideshow presentation from our annual College Information Night on Tuesday, September 9.
For many families, the high cost of higher education is a daunting proposition. Parents lie awake at night trying to figure out how to afford sending their children to college and still have enough of their hard-earned money to retire one day. Some families have children attending college next year and others have 12 years to plan; but the fears of tackling these monumental and rising costs are the same. Join this session for crucial information that will help you plan for college costs.
This event is hosted by The College Funding Coach in partnership with Magruder High School.
Students from all MCPS high schools are welcome to participate.
Click here for more information and to Register
Hear from Directors of Admissions from:
Johns Hopkins University, Towson University, the University of Maryland, and other local representatives!
Please register on the link here: https://forms.gle/oEhAxaG5d9wwp69C7
Zoom instructions will be sent prior to the meeting
Did you know that the 2026-2027 FAFSA will be available on October 1, 2025? Would you like some help filling out the 2026 -2027 FAFSA? Join us so we may help you complete the FAFSA and answer your financial aid questions.
Virtual and in-person:
Saturday, October 4, 2025 | 10 am – 2 pm | Rockville Campus, SV building
Join us for this informative event and learn how to finance your education or workforce training. You can learn about MC Scholarships, financial aid programs, Maryland 529, dual enrollment, and more.
Registration is required. Click here for the link to register.
College & Career Center Newsletter
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 Offices
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.
Library Media News:
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm; Friday from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Students can also eat lunch in designated areas.
The LMC is buzzing with activity this fall! We have several ways for students to get creative and relax.
Maker Space: Students are invited to repurpose books into creative fall creatures, engineer with LEGOs, or take a coloring brain break.
Hispanic Heritage Month: To celebrate students can create their own Papel Picado.
All freshmen have participated in our LMC 9th-Grade Orientation. Please note the updated MCPS Financial Obligations on slide 27 of the presentation (linked HERE)
Please feel free to contact Ms. Hickman our School Library Media Specialist with any questions or concerns.
Library media staff provide technical support.
Whereas this is not our primary directive, the LMC is where students should come to report issues with their Chromebooks and school account access. Students can try THESE 4 QUICK TIPS for chromebook issues at home.
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.
ONLINE FARMS APPS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!
www.MySchoolApps.com is NOW OPEN for parents to complete and submit the 2024-2025 Online application for Free and Reduced-Price Meals!
FAMILIES CAN APPLY NOW & AVOID LONGER PROCESSING TIMES IN THE FALL!
Birds of Play is pleased to bring back the Student Directed Showcase!
Juniors and Seniors interested in directing a scene or choreographing a musical number should join us for the interest meeting on September 24th during lunch in room 0901.
Learn all about what it takes to be a director and how to join this year's showcase!