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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

CASTLE CHRONICLES 02.09.26

Posted Date: 02/09/26 (07:44 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

February 9, 2026
 

Reminder: Vacation 02.16.26-02.20.26

February Vacation Reminder: No school from 02.16.26 - 02.20.26. 
Classes resume on February 23, 2026
 

MATHCOUNTS QUALIFIES FOR STATES!

MathCount team with their awards
SMHS's 7th & 8th grade MATHCOUNTS competition team recently competed in a regional math competition where they showcased problem-solving skills and teamwork. Earning an impressive 3rd place overall finish, these talented mathematicians secured their spot in the upcoming state competition!

Team members include:
  • Owen Kravitz (Grade 8)
  • Eli Rotondi (Grade 8)
  • Jonathan McElroy (Grade 8)
  • Emma Wallin (Grade 7)
  • Anthony Prizgintas (Grade 7)
  • Milo Carlson (Grade 7)
  • CJ Spaulding (Grade 7)
  • Olivia Terrio (Grade 7)

Congratulations MATHCOUNTS members and their advisor, middle school math teacher, Ms. Sarah Greer.
Best of luck in the upcoming state competition!
MATHCOUNT TEAM
MATHCOUNT TEAM AT COMPETITION
MATHCount team
 

CELEBRATING BLUE KNIGHT PRIDE

Girls Hockey team
Blue Knight pride took center stage at the Winter Pep Rally on Friday. From basketball, gymnastics, swimming &diving, hockey, wrestling, and indoor track & field, all sports were celebrated. Sandwich Soul kicked off the rally with a powerful performance of the National Anthem.

Students joined in the fun by participating in activities such as Knockout Basketball, a Hockey Shootout, and a Mattress Slide Race. The energy was high as students and staff came together to support our student-athletes and celebrate school spirit.

GO KNIGHTS!
knockout basketball
basketball team
swim, wrestling and track teams
mattress race
 

SMHS ATTENDS ALL CAPE MUSIC FESTIVAL

all cape competition
Twenty-two SMHS advanced choir and band students were selected to participate in the All-Cape Music Festival, a prestigious regional event. Our students rehearsed and performed as part of choral ensembles and full instrumental and vocal groups.

We are proud of our SMHS vocalists and instrumentalists for their outstanding achievement. Congratulations to all!
all cape competition
All Cape Competition rehersals
 

SOUP-ER BOWL FUN

Souper Bowl
Ms. Jocelyn Greenberg and Ms. Amanda Neill's students once again hosted their annual SOUP-ER Bowl competition.

Each classroom shops for ingredients and cooks their own soup. Faculty and staff then taste both and vote on the winning soup. The event provides valuable opportunities to practice and apply a wide range of skills: shopping, cooking, marketing, customer service and sales.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a wonderful and delicious success!
Souper Bowl crew giving our soup to staff
Souper Bowl crew giving our soup to staff
Souper Bowl Party
Souper Bowl Party
 

STEPPING INTO HISTORY

students on field trip at the American Heritage Museum
Students from Modern World History and Advanced Placement World History recently visited the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, MA. where they explored exhibits and artifacts highlighting American military history, including World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and modern conflicts.

Thank you to history teacher, Mr. Nate Everett, for organizing such a memorable field trip.
Students from Modern World History and AP World History (Grade 10) recently visited the American Heritage Museum
Students from Modern World History and AP World History (Grade 10) recently visited the American Heritage Museum
Students from Modern World History and AP World History (Grade 10) recently visited the American Heritage Museum
Students from Modern World History and AP World History (Grade 10) recently visited the American Heritage Museum
 

✨ Meet the Class of 2026: Weekly Feature by Lillian Barbosa✨

 

MADISON SCOTT

ALL ABOUT : Madison Scott
Quote: "Join activities to make friends and have fun!"

@SMHS-Sports: Swim Team 6 years, SWIM TEAM Captain, Unified Track and Field

What senior event are you most excited for?
SENIOR Masquerade and Prom 

Go to song? Harry Styles: Treat People With Kindness

What’s your favorite lunch spot on cape? 
chick-fil-a

What’s your favorite beach on Cape?
Sagamore Beach
 

BRAEDEN TOBIN

ALL ABOUT: Braeden Tobin
Quote: "Try hard freshman year!"

@SMHS-Sports: Varsity Hockey, Varsity Lacrosse

What senior event are you most
excited for? hockey playoffs

Go to song? 
I got better, morgan wallen

What’s your favorite lunch spot on cape?
chipotle

What’s your favorite beach on Cape? 
east sandwich BEACH
 

NATHAN SURLA

ALL ABOUT: Nathan Surla
Quote: "Challenge yourself and develop good relationships with teachers."

@SMHS-Sports: volleyball, wrestling
Clubs: keyclub, NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY, hosa, music analysis club

What senior event are you most excited for? 
graduation

Go to song? platnium, fakemink

What’s your favorite lunch spot on cape? chick-fil-a.

What’s your favorite beach on Cape?
beachcomber
 

THE POWER OF PERSUASION

Broadcast Journalism class
Broadcast Journalism students explored the power of persuasive writing during a lesson led by Ms. Karen Sabetta and student-teacher, Ms. Kaitlin Grosso. The class focused on how journalists use critical thinking and persuasion to influence audiences in ethical and effective ways.

During the lesson, students examined the three key elements of persuasion—ethos, pathos, and logos—and discussed when and how each should be used in real-world journalism. Later, students analyzed different scenarios to identify where persuasive techniques were present and how they shaped audience perception.

By strengthening analytical and communication skills, our students become more adept writers and readers.
pitching ideas
Broadcast Journalism class
 

ESCAPE ROOM ADVENTURE AT THE LIBRARY

Sandwich Public Library Escape Games on Tuesday February 17 at 2:30 PM for 7-9 graders. 
More information can be found at sandwichpubliclibrary.com
The Sandwich Public Library is inviting students to take part in an exciting “Wicked Fun Games” Escape Room experience on February 17, 2026.

Designed for students in grades 4–6 and 7–9, this interactive event will challenge participants to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and work together to escape a rogue planet before time runs out.

Sessions will be held at 2:30 p.m. for grades 7–9. Space is limited, and students are encouraged to register online in advance and be sure to select the correct grade level.

Thank you to the Sandwich Public Library and the Friends of the Sandwich Public Library for offering this creative learning opportunity for students!
 

REMINDER: Family Input Requested for Counseling Program Review

We invite all families to participate in a brief survey from MASCA (the Massachusetts School Counselors Association) as part of a program review they are conducting of our counseling department.

MASCA is the professional organization that supports school counseling programs across the Commonwealth and provides guidance on best practices in student support and services.

We are committed to continuously improving our programs and value feedback from parents and students as an essential part of that process.

We strongly encourage your participation. If you have any questions, please call (508) 888-4900.

The survey link can be found below. The survey will remain open during the month of February.


Thank you for your time and support!
 

SUMMER SCHOLARS AT OAK RIDGE SCHOOL

We’re excited to share that the Sandwich Public Schools' Summer Scholars program will have a new location and updated schedule this summer! Summer Scholars will take place at Oak Ridge School from July 13–30, 2026, meeting Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

Summer Scholars is an invitation-based program designed to provide targeted reading and math support to students who will be entering grades 1-9 in the fall.

We’re looking forward to a fun, engaging summer of learning and will share more details soon!  
 

JUNIOR MEETINGS – CLASS OF 2027

SMHS school counselors will meet with juniors on Tuesday, February 10 in the SMHS Library to discuss post-secondary planning.

These meetings will help students begin thinking about their options after high school, including college, careers, and other pathways.

📅 A schedule of meeting times will be shared with students soon.
SMHS school counselors will meet with juniors on Tuesday, February 10 in the SMHS Library to discuss post-secondary planning, including college, careers, and other pathways.

As always, please reach out to your student's school counselor with questions.
 

SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN OUR COMMUNITY

Tides of Vhange fluer
he Town of Sandwich will host Tides of Change, a community event focused on mental health and substance use awareness, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Sandwich Center for Active Living. This event is open to community members of all ages and families and is designed to promote wellness while connecting families with local resources and supports.

The event will run from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and will include an open gym space, a keynote presentation, and a community resource fair featuring local organizations and services. Coffee and lunch will be provided.

Tides of Change aims to foster connection, awareness, and support in a welcoming environment. Families are encouraged to attend and take advantage of the opportunity to learn, engage, and connect with community resources.
 

PTSA FUNDRAISER: DINNER AT THE DUNBAR

FLYER FOR PTSA
All are welcome! Get a group together & reserve a table! Enjoy a gourmet dinner at the Dunbar House while supporting the PTSA Blue Knight Senior Award fund. Awards are presented annually to 3 graduating SMHS seniors.
Get a reservation
 

BLUE KNIGHTS SHRED THE SLOPES

SKI TRIP FLYER
Loon: March 7, 2026
Due date: Feb 12, 2026

This trip is open to 8-12 grade SMHS students

 *ALL 8th and 9th GRADE STUDENTS MUST HAVE A PARTNER OR GROUP TO SKI WITH*

First come first serve- Trips fill up fast! Turn permission slips and forms in ASAP
*The Bus will leave SHS parking lot PROMPTLY at 5:15 AM*
The bus will be returning to SHS at approximately 8 PM

*Rentals are available at the mountain but renting prior to the trip is a good option.
**Students are required to wear a helmet at all times while skiing and snowboarding**
(Rental helmets are available at the mountain)

QUESTIONS/CONCERNS?
Contact Mike McNeill at mmcneill@sandwich.k12.ma.us or stop by room C326
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COST

Loon - March 7, 2026
  • Bus & Lift Ticket: $125
  • Rental (Skis or Snowboard, Boots & Poles): $42
  • Helmet Rentals: $10
  • Bus Only: $40

Never been skiing or boarding? -YOU MUST See Mr. McNeill-(C326) for learn to ski/ride packages and you must have a learn to ski/ride buddy.

SIGN UP FORM BELOW
SKI TRIP PERMISSION SLIP
 

SENIORS: APPLY NOW FOR SCHOLARSHIPS!

Scholarship Applications Now Open. See Naviance for Details. 
Types of Scholarships:
- Many scholarships available
- Open to High School Seniors
- Merit-based and non-merit based Options
- National, Regional and Local Opportunities

Why Apply?
- Reduce your financial Burden
- Gain recognition for your achievements
- Take Advantage of opportunities

For more information, see Melissa Murphy in the Guidance Office or call (508) 888-4900 or email mmurohy@sandwich.k12.ma.us

🎓 Don't Miss Out! Scholarship Opportunities Are Waiting

Seniors! As you begin to finalize your plans for next year, we want to remind you not to leave free money on the table!

There are currently incredible scholarship opportunities available that can significantly reduce your financial burden for college. While the process can sometimes feel daunting, please remember that not every application requires an essay. In fact, some of these scholarships are as simple as submitting a brief letter of interest!

Don't hesitate! Apply today! Your future self will thank you.

For a complete list of current opportunities, or if you have any questions about how to get started, please stop by the guidance office to see your school counselor or Mrs. Murphy. We are here to help you succeed!
 

BLUE KNIGHT SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP

BLUE KNIGHT AWARD SCHOLARSHIP
The SMHS PTSA is proud to announce the 2026 Blue Knight Senior Award, recognizing graduating seniors who exemplify what it means to be a Blue Knight.

The PTSA will award up to three one-time scholarships of $1,000 to members of the Class of 2026. These awards are designed to support seniors as they take their next steps after high school and to celebrate students who have made a positive impact on the SMHS community.

Applications are now open in Naviance under PTSA Scholarship.
📅 Deadline to apply: April 28, 2026
We encourage all eligible seniors to apply and take advantage of this opportunity.
 

Sandwich Recreation Dept. Offers Bike Maintenance Class

Rideaway Adventures and Sandwich Recreation Department offer a Bike Maintenance class after school for students in grades 7-12 on Wednesdays after school. Please contact www.sandwichrec.com or call 508-888-4361 for information.
 

INTEREST SURVEY FOR SUMMER FIELD HOCKEY PROGRAM

New Cape and Islands Field Hockey Summer Program.
 

SMHS FOOD PANTRY

Cape Kid Meals has partnered with SMHS to assist all SANDWICH PUBLIC SCHOOL FAMILIES in need. 

The SMHS food pantry will be open every Wednesday evening from 5:00 PM–6:00 PM in room A100 at SMHS. Families can visit in person or place a food order by scanning the QR code. No appointment necessary.
Cape Kid Meals has partnered with SMHS to assist all SANDWICH PUBLIC SCHOOL FAMILIES in need. 

The SMHS food pantry will be open every Wednesday evening from 5:00 PM–6:00 PM in room A100 at SMHS. Families can visit in person or place a food order by scanning the QR code. No appointment necessary.
SANDWICH CREST: bLUE AND WHITE WITH A KNIGHT ON HORSEBACK HOLDING A FLAG WITH AN S ON IT. UNDER THE HORSE IS THE WORD BLUE KNIGHTS.

SMHS BLUE KNIGHTS