May 10, 2019
News from the Principal's Desk
Dear Titan Families,
Mid May in a high school is marked by many culminating activities - award programs, athletic playoff contests, final projects and the like. But May is also a time when students sit for very important high stakes tests that play an important role in their achievement as students. Next work, students at Tuscarora and other high schools in Frederick County will sit for PARCC examination in core areas. Success on these exams is a graduation requirement. In addition, students who prepared both in the fall and this spring are in the midst of taking examinations for 20 Advanced Placement subjects. The scores on these exams determine whether a student receives college credit and/or advanced standing at many colleges and universities. Many 11th graders took the SAT in March and will once again sit for the SAT or the ACT this month. These exams are very much moments of accountability, and sometimes include pressure and anxiety that students feel.
In the midst of the Great Testing Season, I would offer you two perhaps contradictory perspectives that I first offered to you last year, but I believe to be true. The first is a basic one. It is important for student next week and in the coming weeks to give their absolute best - to prepare at home in the ways that their teachers have recommended, and to give themselves the confidence that they need to be successful. It is a timeworn adage, but on the day of big exams, eat well, and get plenty of rest in advance. Persist to the end of the last question or essay, and “leave it all on the field” as coaches so often encourage their athletes. It is that little extra effort that sometimes wins the day and makes the difference. I am confident that our students are well prepared in these high stakes tests, but hearing from their parents and families to “do their best” is really an important, encouraging reminder. Every morning, my last words to my youngest daughter are “Have a great day in school. Work hard.” It’s a simple message among the “I love yous” and many other encouraging things we can say as parents. But it sends the message that effort counts, and while not a guarantee, can make a difference.
The other perspective is one that I also believe strongly as an educator. While we measure students with test scores, they are not the entire measure of who we are as learners. Intelligence is not solely determined by a round number. What our score is/was on the SAT has little influence on who we become as individuals adults. Whether a student scores a 2 or a 5 on an Advanced Placement exam matters less than the skills they developed to do college level work and the rigor or their studies. A PARCC score may be a graduation requirement, but it does not measure grit, determination, curiosity or competitiveness in many arena. Rather than debate the merits of high stakes testing, what I believe is that they are one of many ways we measure success in high school and education, in general. Take them for what they are: milestones on the road of life’s achievement. Work hard at success in the next few weeks, but don’t lose sight of the big picture.
I want to thank the PTSA, the SGA, the Administrative team and the many parents who played a role in Teacher Appreciation Week over the past five days. I don’t believe that it is by mistake that we put Teacher Appreciation Week at the end of the year when teachers need it most. I know our staff was greatly thankful for the many kindnesses this week. I know many of you took my advice from the newsletter last week, and wrote their child’s teacher personal notes. It is never too late, and especially in high school, where teachers miss out on the handcrafted gifts students work on so frequently in elementary. Take five minutes and make a teacher's day... write them a note.
Thank you to teachers and parents, who work their magic every day.
Christopher Berry
Principal
Looking Ahead - The Weekly Calendar
Saturday,
May 11
Saturday School
Tennis at Frederick County Championships at Baker Park Tennis Courts
8:00am–11:30am
9:00 am
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Monday,
May 13
Advanced Placement Exams
Performing Arts Boosters Meeting
Athletic Boosters Meeting
7:00pm–8:30 pm
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Tuesday,
May 14
PARCC English 10
Track & Field at Regionals at Manchester Valley High
THS Dance Showcase
5:00pm
Wednesday,
May 15
PARC English 10
Universal Technical Institute Lunch Time Display
5:00 pm
Thursday,
May 16
Petition Eligibility Day
THS Band / Orchestra Banquet
THS Instrumental Music Boosters Meeting
7:00 pm
Math Students to Hershey Park
THS Drama / Dance Performance
7:30am –5:30pm
8:00 am
See the FCPS calendar. *Dates and times are subject to change.
Keeping You Informed - School News
The 2019 Titan Yearbook Has Arrived!
The Tuscarora Yearbook with the theme, "We Are Titans!" has arrived in the building. We began distributing pre-ordered books on Thursday May 9th and will continue during all lunch shifts in room A-204. Unfortunately, a large number of books were damaged during this year’s shipment. The problem is being corrected and Herff-Jones is shipping a new run of replacement books to be delivered on Friday, May 17th.
This does not impact pre-ordered books, all of which have been accounted for and set aside. It does, however, impact sales of the extra books. There will be a limited number of books for sale on Monday, May 13th. Each lunch shift will have the same number of books available and books will be sold, first-come first-served. Once the books on hand are sold, students will be able to pay in advance to reserve a book that can be picked up Friday, May 17th after school. We sincerely apologize for this inconvenience. If you have questions please contact Mr. Hartman at: richard.hartman@fcps.org
THS Horticulture Program Plant Concludes This Saturday
The THS Horticulture Program Plant Sale continues this Saturday, May 11th 9:00 am-1:00 pm.
For more information, email Teresa.Stevens@fcps.org.
Everything is grown by the students and all of the money goes directly back into the program. Excellent, hearty bedding plants that will make your home look spectacular! Thank you for supporting the THS Horticulture program.
Senior Titan Scholar Awards
The application for the Titan Scholar Award is now available. There are two levels of the award. Students who have taken and earned a grade of at least a "C" in 3 AP, College level or Microsoft Certification Exams can receive a Level 1 award. Students who have taken and earned a grade of at least a "C" in 6 AP, College level or Microsoft Certification Exams can receive a Level 2 award.
Students must complete the application and submit a copy of their unofficial transcripts with the application. A course list with grades can be found on Naviance. The applications are due by Friday May 17th to Mrs. Lisa Smith or Mrs. Golibart.
TRo Tuesdays at Chili's!
The 1st Tuesday of every month is now TRo Tuesday!
Come out for great food with friends at Chili's, May 7th, from 11 - 9:30 and help us bring the community together! A percent of your total bill benefits the THS Football Program. Make sure to show the flyer (below) or mention the Titans so they know you're one of us!
Tag us in your photos and see you there!
Attendance
Good attendance leads to success and boosts graduation. Our school goal is 96%.
See FCPS absence procedures.
Congratulations, Commendations and Kudos
Eskutchen Named FCPS Support Service Employee of the Year
Congratulations to Terry Eskutchen, Secretary for the Tuscarora Athletic Department who has been named the Frederick County Public Schools "Support Services Employee of the Year - Secretary Category". Ms. Eskutchen is a tremendous support to the entire athletic program, the school at large, and the community, as the individual who books outside use of the school. She is unfailing pleasant, organized and able to juggle many tasks at one time. We at Tuscarora consider ourselves lucky to have Ms. Eskutchen on our staff. She will honored by the Frederick County Board of Education at their June 12 Board Meeting.
Adam Hoffrichter - 11th Grade
Nominated by Mr. Zitrick
Adam demonstrated great diligence in preparing for his AP Exams.
All nominations included:
jessica.mcclain@fcps.org
Cameron Tyree
maria.bonet@fcps.org
Ramont Scott, Jr
mary.hull@fcps.org
Eric Anderson
meredith.nickles@fcps.org
Theo Miller
Jessica Lakner
Max Barlow
lydia.kowalski@fcps.org
Ismael Alvarado Chavez
sophia.hamilton@fcps.org
Joseph Jimenez Mata
Dre'von Tyre
patricia.crowell@fcps.org
Mallory Brown
julia.clark@fcps.org
Zack Smith
shannon.green@fcps.org
Stephanie Coleman
kimberley.lizik@fcps.org
Cameron Burrier
katherine.miller@fcps.org
Kaua Silva Campos
Jessica Pham
susan.seymour@fcps.org
Shemar Joseph
amanda.kremnitzer@fcps.org
Jada Johnson
charles.zitrick@fcps.org
Adam Hoffrichter
kierstin.rosensteel@fcps.org
Antonio Bryant
Alvin Otieno
Jake Perry
jody.ratti@fcps.org
Natalie Askounes
james.jensen@fcps.org
Jonah Milam
jennifer.creter@fcps.org
Maggie Thompson
daniel.neuland@fcps.org
Angela Johnson
Molly Terra
Michaela Clune
sarah.welker@fcps.org
Serina McCormick
Michelle Lui
Career and Technology Center (CTC) Honors Students for Excellence
Tuscarora High School has over 100 students who attend the FCPS Career and Technology Center each day. Congratulations to all of the Tuscarora High School students who received awards and scholarships at the Annual CTC Awards Program this past week. Collectively, Tuscarora students were recognize with academic achievement, citizenship and scholarship awards! We are so proud of their numerous accomplishments in so many fields of study!
Student Name
Program Name
Award/ Scholarship
Madison Beach
Cosmetology
Academic Excellence
Charlotte Brittain
Digital Design & Printing Methods
Richard Flaherty Memorial Scholarship
Sophia Ferrer
Advanced Web Design and Animation
Academic Achievement
Caitlyn Kenny
Dalton Kephart
Electricity
Lauryn Mays
American Citizenship Award
Samuel Olsson
Carpentry
Rashayla Pitts
Academy of Health Professions
Hallie Woods
Academic of Health Professions
Frederick Community College Announces THS Scholarship Winners
This week, Frederick Community College announced the recipients of it's annual scholarship competition in each FCPS High School. Tuscarora High School has three winners and two students who will compete for a countywide award. The winners are:
Merit Scholarship – Magdalene Tumy received $8,800 ($2,200 per semester for two years)
Post Dual Enrollment Scholarship – Caitlyn McTamany received $4,400 ($2,200/semester for one year)
Routzahn Business Scholarship - Rayna Cortina received $1,000 ($250/semester for two years)
Frederick Singles - Shannon Kraham received $1,000 ($500/semester for one year)
Congratulations to all of this year's winners!
THS Senior Clune Selected as ACE Scholarship Recipient
Tuscarora High School senior Jacqueline Clue was recently selected as the recipient of a scholarship from the ACE Mentoring Program of Frederick County. The program, which runs during the school year, is open to any high school student interested in learning more about a career in the building industry. Typically, meetings are held every two weeks for two hours after school at the offices of one of the sponsoring companies. The heart of this program is its focus on projects that simulate real-world situations. Through these projects, teams of students under the mentorship of industry professionals transform their ideas from abstract concepts into concrete solutions. Clune was recognized when the ACE Mentor Program recently held its Presentation Night on Thursday, April 25, 2019.
Senior Knor Competes at National Poetry Out Loud Competition in Washington, DC
THS Senior Grace Knor recently performed at the Poetry Out Loud National Competition in Washington, D.C. on April 30th. The national organization featured the state champions from all 50 states and US territories. Although Grace did not win nationals she represented Tuscarora amazingly. Here is a picture with Grace competing and with the state/territory representatives.
Johnson, Terra and Clune Featured in Frederick News Post Competition
Congratulations to Tuscarora Art Student Angela Johnson, whose artwork was featured on the cover of the Frederick New-Post's "Design An Ad" competition this past week. DESIGN AN AD IS A PROGRAM WHERE WE PAIR LOCAL BUSINESSES WITH LOCAL MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOMS THROUGHOUT FREDERICK COUNTY to create ads for the advertisers. Students are challenged to use their creativity, logic and critical thinking skills to design a winning ad, while local business owners demonstrate their commitment to the education of Frederick County students by purchasing ad space for which the students design an advertisement. In addition to Angela, two other Tuscarora students were featured alongside there art for Frederick area businesses. Molly Terra was featured with an ad for a local automotive company, and Michaela Clune was featured with an ad for a local automotive garage. Congratulation to all three Tuscarora art students, who were encouraged by art teacher Dan Neuland.
Senior Class of 2019 News
Listed below are important dates and information for seniors.
Visit the THS Senior Page for up-to-date Senior Information:
https://sites.google.com/fcps.org/thsseniors2019/home
Twitter Account: @tuscarorahs2019
Date
May 15, 2019
May 17, 2019
Titan Scholar Forms Due
The application for the Titan Scholar Award is now available. There are two levels of the award. Students who have taken and earned a grade of at least a "C" in 3 AP, College level or Microsoft Certification Exams can receive a Level 1 award. Students who have taken and earned a grade of at least a "C" in 6 AP, College level or Microsoft Certification Exams can receive a Level 2 award. Students must complete the application and submit a copy of their unofficial transcripts with the application. A course list with grades can be found on Naviance. The applications are due by Friday May 17th to Mrs. Lisa Smith or Mrs. Golibart.
Applications are available on the senior website, the front office, B203, and the Media Center.
May 23, 2019
May 28, 29, & 30, 2019
May 31, 2019
Internships, Scholarships and Summer Opportunities
United Way of Frederick County’s Summer Serve
Registration is Open! United Way Summer Serve engages area youth 12-17 in volunteer service projects at various nonprofit agencies throughout Frederick County. The program will provide the participants with a comprehensive understanding of the areas of need in our community. The deadline to register is May 26, 2019! Spots are filling up quickly, so register today!
Leadership Week is available to all participants who have participated in any of the three main Summer Serve sessions. Leadership week gives participants an opportunity to further expand upon their ability to work well with others and learn how they can serve as a catalyst for positive change in our community. Summer Serve 2019 - Schedule:
• Session 1: June 24-28 & July 8-12
• Session 2: July 15-19 & July 22-26
• Session 3: July 29-August 2 & August 5-9
• Leadership Week: August 12-16
Scholarships are Available!
Applicants whose families' earnings are at or below the Frederick County Survival Budget qualify for full scholarships, and those applicants whose families earn below the Household Stability Budget qualify for partial scholarships.
To see if you qualify for scholarships or for more information on Summer Serve and to register, visit www.unitedwayfrederick.org/summerserve.
Interested in a Career in Medicine?
Consider the "S2M2: Science, Service, Medicine & Mentoring" Summer Camp to be held at THS July 29-August 2. Interested students must apply and be accepted into the program. Cost is $500; scholarships are available. Apply at https://aacfmd.org/s2m2 by June 22 or see Mrs. Mummert for more information.
Johns Hopkins Summer Engineering Program - Don't Miss It!
Don't miss out! The last date to submit an application is Friday, June 7. Scholarships are still available! FCPS high school juniors and seniors... apply now for the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Engineering Innovation summer program, offered at Hood College again this year. Engineering Innovation (IE) will enable students to participate in a renowned college-level program that offers the potential to earn 3 college credits while exploring cutting-edge educational and career options. Students will also earn 1 FCPS elective credit.
The course is offered June 24 through July 19, Mondays-Fridays, 9-3 (with no class Thursday, July 4). Prerequisites are Algebra II, some trigonometry, a lab science (chemistry, biology, and/or physics) and experience with a spreadsheet application, As and Bs in high school math and science courses.
Application Fee: $85
Tuition: $3,080 (Financial assistance is available! Apply early for Financial Aid.)
Applications are online at: https://ei.jhu.edu/locations/hood-college/
Job Opportunity for Graduating Seniors
All Around Plumbing is currently seeking an entry level Administrative Assistant. Responsibilities include calculating time sheets, entering account payable, filing and scanning, answering phones, general office duties, etc. Applicants must be efficient in MS Office, detail oriented, organized, an effective communicator, willing to be trained and a quick study. Hours are M-F from 7:00 to 4:00. This position also offers benefits and a competitive wage. See Mrs. Mummert for application information.
Summer Employment at Harper Ferry NHP
The National Park Service is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2019 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (NHP). This is an exciting opportunity for high school students to spend their summer doing meaningful work in a national park site. The YCC program is scheduled to last for eight weeks beginning on June 16, 2019 and ending on August 20, 2019 and is open to individuals 15 through 18 years of age. Enjoy a summer working with the National Park Service at Harpers Ferry NHP. Through this experience, students will gain an understanding and appreciation of the nation's environment and heritage while helping to maintain and preserve our national parks for current and future generations.
For more information about YCC Summer employment then please visit: Harpers Ferry YCC Summer Employment website. This eight week program is from June 16 through August 20, 2019. Students must be able to work at least seven of the eight weeks. Schedules will vary depending on position type. All positions will work 7½ to 8 hours a day, five days a week, including weekends. A typical daily schedule is 8:00am - 5:00pm or 9:00 - 6:00pm. The Salary will be for all positions at Harpers Ferry NHP start at $9.00 per hour. Available Position are Living History and Historic Trades and Interpretation/Visitor Services.
To qualify, each applicant must meet all of the following requirements: Return their completed application by 5:00 pm on April 26, 2019; Be age 15 – 18; Be a U.S. citizen and have a social security card; Have transportation to and from work; Be able to work the assigned schedule for the program in which they are interested; Be able to work at least seven of the eight weeks from June 16 through August 20, 2019.
Apply by filling out at: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/youthprograms/upload/YCCform-Crew-Member-Application-508-4.pdf which may be obtained at the Harpers Ferry NHP Visitor Center (171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425), by emailing the park, or from the NPS Youth Conservation Corps subject site. Applications must be received by 5:00 pm, April 26, 2019. Completed applications may be submitted to the park by email or mail. Preferred: Email your application to our YCC Program Coordinator Samantha Zurbuch at samantha_zurbuch@nps.gov
Counseling Office Updates
Summer School Registration
SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Find details and registration materials for 2019 POSS* and TRAD** at https://education.fcps.org/fcvs/ (select "Summer Session Learning Options")
See participation expectations, dates, times and registration fees.
Deadline: Completed registration forms must reach school counselors before Thursday, June 13, 2019 at 3 PM. Do not delay! Enrollment is limited. Courses do fill up quickly so return the form as soon as possible.
2019-2020 Virtual School (VOS) Course Registration Opens
VOS (Virtual Outside of School) is a blended-learning program designed for students who are independent learners and have consistent access to the Internet and a computer outside of school. Online resources are the primary source of learning, and most courses are taught at the honors level. Students are required to attend a few face-to-face evening sessions for instruction and/or proctoring exams with the course teacher. Who can attend VOS? Currently enrolled and attending FCPS students in grades 9-12.
Sign up EARLY to reserve a seat in the course you want to take because courses fill up quickly! Students register through the school counselor. You may download information about attendance requirements, fall and spring schedules, submission deadlines and the pre-registration form to submit to the school counselor under 2019-2020 Fall and Spring Course Info here: https://education.fcps.org/flex/vos
CTC Updates and Shadowing
Students who applied to a CTC program should have received a letter from CTC indicating whether they were accepted to their program of choice or placed on a waitlist. There are several programs that will re-open for shadowing and the opportunity to apply. If you are interested in any of the programs listed below please see Mrs. Pampori in the counseling office to sign up to shadow.
Programs open for shadowing & applications for waitlist only:
All Seniors Need to Complete Senior Survey
The 2019 Senior Survey is now live and active on Naviance. Please go to your account and under Planner and Tasks Assigned to Me you will find the survey. This survey is used on both the State and County levels to improve educational programs.
Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation Summer Program
The JHU Engineering Innovation Summer Program will be held at Hood College this summer and will run from June 24-July 19. This summer course is a great opportunity for students to try college engineering while still in high school. Students who earn an ‘A’ or a ‘B’ in the course will receive 3 credits from JHU. For more information and to apply please click on the link below.
https://ei.jhu.edu/locations/hood-college/
Serving students with last names: A-C Danielle Moore D-I Jessica McDonald J-N Carla Goto O-Sv Kay Wilson Sw-Z Elizabeth Forbes
PTSA and Booster Organizations
The PTSA at Tuscarora Needs You!
The THS Parent Teacher Student Association (THS PTSA) is an organization that provides support to school-sponsored events, supports the school's staff, as well as supports our community. The THS Parent Teacher Student Association is announcing nominations for its 2019-2020 board. The voting will take place at our May 21st general meeting at 6:30pm, in the THS media center.
President: Tanya Wagstaff
Vice President: Open
Treasurer: Diana Schelero
Secretary: Rubina Shreiner
County Council Rep.: Kimberly Scott
Please know that if you are interested in the Vice President positions, your time commitment will be minimal and you will be coming into an experienced and supportive current board. If you are interested in filling one of these positions or have any questions regarding any of these positions, please contact Dawn Beall at dabeall1@yahoo.com.
Not a member of the PTSA yet? Find out how to Join the PTSA
See names of PTSA Board and Committee Chairs and more
Learn More
Media Center Updates
Media Center Hours
Monday – Friday: 7:20 am – 2:40 pm
Media Center Website: https://education.fcps.org/ths/mediacenter
Media Center Twitter: @mediacenterTHS
Congratulations
Congratulations to Dardlie Leferve the winner of the Hershey Kiss Counting Challenge.
Senior Chromebook Collection
Chromebook collection for seniors will begin on Thursday, May 16th in FLEX. Chromebooks need to be returned along with the case and charger.
Thurs., May 16, 2019
Friday, May 17, 2019
Mon., May 20, 2019
10:15-10:25
Babb
Karos
Seils
Geerlings
Knepper
Wagner, D
10:25-10.:40
Gray
McClain
Zitrick
10:25-10:40
Hamilton
Mummert
All Others
10:40-10:50
Jorgensen
Murrell
Schwab
AP Exams
Stop by the media center and check out an AP study guide to get some final studying in before the big day.
Media Specialist: Carrie Palmer
Visit Our Online Resources
Titan Health and Wellness
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ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Helen Golibart Jody Ratti Lisa Smith Tanisha Smith Helpful Links: School Cash Online Menus & Meals Grades Online www.fcps.org
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