Good Evening Seneca Valley!!

I hope everyone is having a great weekend!  This week marks another short week as students do not have school on Thursday October 2nd.

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.

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.

From Montgomery County Public Schools:

Stay Safe: Tips for Walking to School
Walking to school or the bus stop? Stay alert and stay safe! Always cross streets at marked crosswalks, stop and look left-right-left before stepping off the curb, and make eye contact with drivers so they see you. Use sidewalks when available—or walk facing traffic if there aren’t any—and wear bright or reflective clothing when it’s dark or rainy.
Learn more safety tips and find resources for families on the MCPS Safe Routes to School website.

Join MCPS and Learn More: Academic Programs Analysis and Boundary Study Information Sessions Coming Soon
Starting next week, Montgomery County Public Schools will be hosting a variety of information sessions to learn more about what Academic Programs Analysis and Boundary Studies mean for you and your family.
Read the story here.

Now You Know: How to Update Your Contact Info in ParentVUE
Keeping your contact information up-to-date is one of the most important ways to stay connected with your child’s school. From sharing classroom updates to reaching you quickly in an emergency, your school and the school system rely on the information you provide. That’s why every year, families are asked to verify their contact and emergency information through the Annual Verification Process. Read more.
Now You Know Video Seriies - Watch in English | Spanish | French | Chinese | Vietnamese | Amharic | Korean | Portuguese

Note: Next week, the Now You Know video series will cover Pedestrian Safety

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at KID Museum
Come to KID Museum in Bethesda on Sundays throughout Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 28, Oct. 5, and Oct. 12) for hands-on activities inspired by the cultural traditions of Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more.

Ignite Your Future with Girls With Impact
Interested in building your public speaking skills or growing as a leader? MCPS is partnering with Girls With Impact to offer MCPS young women in Grades 9–12 a free 10-week course in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Classes begin Monday, Sept. 29. Learn more and sign up today. Read how this program impacted the lives of three students.

In Case You Missed It

• The 2026-2027 calendar survey is closing soon. Take it today!

• Make plans to attend one of two College Scholarship Info Nights and learn how to make college affordable. Information will be presented in English and Spanish. Register and learn more.

• Don’t forget to register for the Sept. 25 webinar on MCPS’ new grading policy and the college admissions process.

• The Montgomery County Students Information Technology Foundation, Inc. (ITF) will award a refurbished computer lab to a Montgomery County 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Applications are available online.

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 calendar

• Parent resource page

• News and Information page / Noticias en Español

• Latest photo galleries

• MCPS TV videos

• MCPS TV español

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 plays 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 SchoolCash Online 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. ***

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:

• Translated 2025–2026 SSL Messages for Students and Families 

• Student Service Learning HUB for MCPS Students and Families

• 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, please email me a photo or pdf of your form 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

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

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. 

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

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

Attention parents of seniors! Boosters awards 2 $1,000 scholarships in the spring. One of the requirements for this scholarship is a minimum GPA of 3.0. All of the requirements are available on our website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/senecavalleyhs/activities/boosterclub/

We have an exciting partnership with NW High School at the Germantown Oktoberfest on Oct. 4, please use the Sign up genius to help make this event a success.

Many hands make light work, sign up here:

https://shorturl.at/ONC1i

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

Upcoming events:

9/29 - Boys soccer vs Clarksburg JV 5:30/V 7:15

9/30 - Field Hockey vs Poolesville V 3:45/ JV 5:15

10/1 - Flag Football vs Northwest 4:30

10/3 - Girls soccer vs Quince Orchard JV 5:30/V 7:15

10/3 - Volleyball vs Whittman JV 5:30/V 6:30

10/4 - Germantown Oktoberfest

We'd love to have your help:

https://shorturl.at/ONC1i

Here are the meeting notes from our most recent meeting: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hcjZvrFw-vfZInd9slYy6GS6MyrgHDW7gfMG__mKbN8/edit?usp=sharing Join us for our next meeting on October ??!

Have fresh produce delivered right to your door with the Seasonal Roots fundraiser:

https://shorturl.at/yx9Vf

Seneca Valley High School Career Programs Information Nights

Are you interested in learning more about the career and technology programs at Seneca Valley, but you don't know where to start?  During the month of October, we will host two CTE program information nights. Our part-time student information night will be held on October 8th, from 6PM - 8PM. While many students enrolled in our part-time programs only attend Seneca for their CTE courses and then return to their home school for their other courses, Seneca Valley students are able to enroll in this program. Part-time programs are geared towards students who will be in 11th grade next year, and that have not already started a career program.  Our regional program information night will be on October 21st, from 6PM - 8PM.  Our regional programs are open to all Seneca Valley students. Most of the pathways begin in 9th or 10th grade.  However, there are opportunities for students to begin in 11th grade if they have already earned most of their high school required credits.  Please visit our CTE page to learn more about the programs.  

Fire and Rescue Career Exploration

On Monday, Oct. 13 from 11:30am-1:30pm Montgomery County Fire and Rescue (MCFRS) is hosting “The Fire Experience” career interest meeting for Grade 10, 11 and 12 students at the Public Safety Training Academy in Gaithersburg, MD. Students interested in a Career Pathway in Fire & Rescue as a High School Cadet, Volunteer or Post-Secondary employed Recruit are encouraged to register by Oct. 6. Seats are limited!

The Fire Experience

• Grades: 10, 11, and 12

• Date: Monday, Oct. 13

• Time: 11:30am-1:30pm

• Location: Public Safety Training Academy- 8751 Snouffer School Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20879

• Registration: Use the QR code on flyer or this link: https://dub.link/zNKUfuH

  • Register and upload required field trip forms by Mon., Oct. 6

• Transportation: is available to and from the Fire Academy

  • Students will use the High School Cadet bus

  • Pick-up times range from 10:45am-11:10am and a schedule will be provided to registered students

• Lunch: Pizza will be provided

• Event Questions: Contact Shawn Krasa, supervisor, Work-Based Learning, at Shawn_E_Krasa@mcpsmd.org

Notes From the SVHS College & Career Center

Mr. Nalda, SVHS College & Career Navigator  |  Room 2408  |  240-740-6418  |  Email

Applying to Four-Year Colleges (Seniors)

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.

FAFSA Officially Opens on October 1

Eligible students planning to attend a college, university, or trade school can begin to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on October 1.  This includes students applying to Montgomery College.  Students need to complete the FAFSA form to be considered for federal student aid such as federal grants, work-study funds, and loans.  In addition, the state of Maryland and colleges use FAFSA information to determine a student’s eligibility for state and school aid. 

Mr. Nalda will be visiting Senior English classes throughout October and November to discuss the FAFSA and financial aid.  Here are a few resources related to the FAFSA to review:

• Top 10 FAFSA® Myths

• FAFSA® FAQ Worksheet

• Student Worksheet: FAFSA® Preparation Assignment

The SVHS Financial Aid Guide for Seniors is another important document for students to review.  It contains information about financial aid, how to apply, and other important resources to help you pay for college. 

College & Career Representative Visits in the College & Career Center

This Week’s College & Career Center Visits:

• Marymount University - Mon September 29 @ 8:45 AM

• Montgomery College - Mon September 29 @ 10:30 AM

• Goucher College - Mon September 29 @ 12:05 PM

• Frostburg State University - Tue September 30 @ 8:45 AM

• Ohio University-Main Campus - Tue September 30 @ 9:40 AM

• George Mason University - Tue September 30 @ 10:30 AM

• Loyola University Maryland - Wed October 1 @ 1:05 PM

• Swarthmore College - Fri October 3 @ 8:45 AM

• Suffolk University - Fri October 3 @ 10:30 AM  

Click here to learn more and see who is scheduled to visit SVHS this Fall! 

College Fairs USA Field Trip - October 10

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

MICUA Private College Application Days

Apply to Maryland’s private colleges with no application fees!  

Save the remaining dates!

• 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

Upcoming Scholarships 

• 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. 

• October 10 - CouponBirds "Help to Save" Scholarship - one $1,000 award and four $500 awards; high school students: must be at least 15 years old and provide an enrollment certificate or proof of enrollment; create a 2-3 minute video (no longer than 5 minutes) on the topic: "Money-Saving Secrets for Students" and upload it to YouTube; subscribe to CouponBirds' social media. Follow CouponBirds on X and Facebook; share your video with money-saving tips on your social media channels (X/Facebook) to help more students; complete the application form, including the links to your YouTube video and social media post, and submit your application; see link for full rules and guidelines. 

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.

George B. Thomas, Sr.  Learning Academy - Saturday School SAT/ACT Prep Courses

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

Other Opportunities

SVHS Class of 2026 College Information Night - Recording & Slideshow

Click below to see the recording and slideshow presentation from our annual College Information Night on Tuesday, September 9.

• Video recording

• Slideshow Presentation

How to Pay for College

In-person and Virtual event, Saturday, October 4, 2025

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. 

Military Academies & Colleges Expo

Saturday, October 4, 2025  |  10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  |  National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir, VA!

Interested in a rigorous, leadership-focused college experience? Don’t miss the Military Academies & Colleges Expo. Hosted by the Army Historical Foundation, this free event brings together representatives from all U.S. Service Academies, Senior Military Colleges, and ROTC program experts—everything you need in one place to explore the wide range of educational and career opportunities these incredible institutions offer.

Learn about:

• Admissions processes and eligibility for each institution

• ROTC scholarship opportunities

• Life at a Service Academy or Senior Military College

• Paths to commissioning as an officer in the U.S. military

• How a degree from a Senior Military College can also lead to success in the civilian sector

Whether you’re considering active duty, ROTC, or a leadership-focused education that prepares you for success in both military and civilian careers, this event is for you!

Click here to register  |  Click here for the flyer

MCPS College Success Preparation Parent Night: How to Make College Affordable

Come join us to learn about the nuts and bolts of financing college and the admissions process. The information will be provided in English and Spanish. 

October 7, 2025 - Montgomery College Takoma Park Campus Cultural Arts Center

or

October 9, 2025 - Montgomery College Germantown Campus Bioscience Education Center

Click here to register  |  Click here for the flyer

College & Career Center Newsletter

• 2025-26 SVHS College & Career Newsletter - Issue 1, September

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/

Library Media Center

Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm; Friday from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. 

Library Media Staff Technical support.  

Whereas this is not our primary directive, the LMC is where students should come to report issues with their Chromebooks and school accounts. Students can try THESE strategies for chromebook issues at home.

Please contact Ms. Hickman our School Library Media Specialist with any questions or concerns.