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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

Castle Chronicles 04.06.26

Posted Date: 04/06/26 (08:26 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

April 6, 2026

GRADES 7 & 8: ELA MCAS TESTING ON WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY

MCAS REMINDERS
1. ARRIVE TO SCHOOL ON TIME. TESTING STARTS AT 7:30 AM
2. BRING A FULLY CHARGED CHROMEBOOK
3. EAT BREAKFAST. BREAKFAST IS FREE DAILY.
Grades 7 & 8 students will be participating in MCAS ELA testing on Wednesday, April 8 and Thursday, April 9.

Testing will begin promptly at 7:30 AM. Strong attendance and punctuality are essential to ensure students are able to complete the assessment without disruption.

Students must complete the test on their school-issued Chromebook, so please be sure devices are fully charged each day.

We also encourage students to start the day with a good breakfast. Breakfast is available free of charge daily in the cafeteria, and a grab-and-go breakfast kiosk is also available on the 2nd floor lobby.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students be prepared and ready to do their best!
 

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR DEAR EVAN HANSEN ! OPENING NIGHT IS FRIDAY, APRIL 10!

DEAR EVAN HANSEN POSTER
The Knights Theatre Company is bringing the award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen to the stage from April 10 - April 18 at Sandwich Middle High School.

Join us for an unforgettable show about connection, belonging, and finding your voice.

📅 April 10, 17 & 18 – 7:00 PM
📅 April 12 & 18 – 2:00 PM

🎟 Get your tickets now HERE or by scanning the QR code on the poster!

Dear Evan Hansen discusses sensitive subject matter and parental discretion is advised.
 

2026 YEARBOOK: ORDER NOW!

20226 yearbook COVER
We’re excited to reveal the cover of the 2026 Sandwich Middle High School yearbook, Wave After Wave. This year’s design was created by incredibly talented senior, Annabelle Marchand. She perfectly captured the coastal spirit of SMHS!

A limited number of copies are still available and once they’re gone, they’re gone. If you haven’t reserved your yearbook yet, now is the time to purchase your copy and make sure you don’t miss out on this year’s memories!
 

CIVICS IN ACTION: LOCAL LEADERS VISIT

8th Grade Civics students are actively researching topics for their Civic Action Projects, focusing on real issues that impact their community, including road safety, affordable housing, school traffic, and bike safety.

As part of this work, students have connected with a wide range of guest speakers who bring real-world insight into local and state government. Speakers have included Shane Hoctor (Selectboard), Officer Peterson, Superintendent Marusczak, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Quinn, Zach Crowley (Chief of Staff for State Senator Dylan Fernandes), Recreation Director Tricia MacDonald, School Committee Chair Kevin Sareault, State Representative Steven Xiarhos, Barnstable County Commissioner Mark Forrest, Bike and Pedestrian Safety Committee Chairman Sean Polay, and MassHire Workforce Development Manager Justin Grota.

In addition, students heard from Sandwich Wastewater Program Implementation Manager Dave Mason, who discussed issues surrounding water and community health, and Family Table Collaborative Executive Director Jeni Wheeler, who shared how her organization supports food-insecure communities across Cape Cod.

Through these experiences, students are asking questions, gathering information, and gaining a deeper understanding of how government and community organizations work together to address real-world challenges. The classes are also looking forward to an upcoming visit from Town Manager Bud Dunham.
civics class speakers
civics class speakers
civics class speaker
civics class speaker
Mr. Taylor's civics class
Mr. Taylor's civics class
 

SERVICE & SACRIFICE: LEARNING FROM A VIETNAM VETERAN

Vietnam Veteran speaking to class
U.S. History II students had the unique opportunity to hear firsthand from Vietnam War veteran Mr. Dick Auclair, a retired Sandwich Public Schools custodian. Mr. Auclair served in the U.S. Army as part of the 18th Military Police Battalion stationed throughout South Vietnam.

During his visit, he shared personal experiences from his time “in country,” giving students a powerful and authentic perspective on the realities of the Vietnam War. Students examined original photographs and took a close look at Mr. Auclair’s BDU blouse, bringing history to life in a meaningful and memorable way.

We thank Mr. Auclair for his visit to SMHS, but importantly for his service to our country.
 

SMHS ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB SUPPORTS LOCAL WILDLIFE

environmental club
The Environmental Club visited the Cape Wildlife Center following a successful supply drive to support injured and orphaned wildlife. Thanks to generous donations from the school community, students collected essential items including Cheerios (for baby animals), trash bags, and paper towels.

On Tuesday, eight students, along with Mrs. Ferreira and Ms. Fudala, traveled to the center to deliver the donations and tour the facility. During the visit, Veterinary Nurse Specialist Caryn Ritchie introduced students to baby squirrels, turtles recovering from car injuries, and several owls currently in care. She also shared insights into wildlife rehabilitation and provided guidance on how to safely respond when encountering baby wildlife in the spring. It was a meaningful and informative trip!
 

ALUMNI RETURN TO SERVE THEIR COMMUNITY

Sandwich Police officers in class to speak with students
School Resource Officer Marc Petersen and School Resource Officer Dan Halloran, along with Sgt. Lauren Gilrein of the Sandwich Police Department visited Mr. Welch’s Introduction to Criminal Justice class. Students asked a wide range of questions, and the officers shared insights on career paths, daily operations, and police procedures.

They also offered personal stories from their experiences policing in the very community where they grew up, as all three are Sandwich High School alumni!
 

PROJECT 351 CLOTHING DRIVE

Sandwich Middle High School is partnering with Project 351 to host a clothing drive supporting Cradles to Crayons, an organization dedicated to ending clothing insecurity for children across Massachusetts.

Families are encouraged to donate new or like-new clothing (no tears or stains). Shoes of any size are accepted, and all socks, underwear, and pajamas must be new. The drive is especially focused on infant and toddler sizes.

Donations can be dropped off in collection bins located in the front lobbies of all three schools—Forestdale, Oak Ridge, and Sandwich Middle High School—from March 30 through April 10.

This effort helps provide essential clothing to children experiencing poverty and homelessness, making a meaningful impact in the lives of over 300,000 children statewide.

For questions, please contact fgreene2030@sandwich.k12.ma.us
.
Sandwich Middle High School is partnering with Project 351 to host a clothing drive supporting Cradles to Crayons, an organization dedicated to ending clothing insecurity for children across Massachusetts.

Families are encouraged to donate new or like-new clothing (no tears or stains). Shoes of any size are accepted, and all socks, underwear, and pajamas must be new. The drive is especially focused on infant and toddler sizes.
Donations can be dropped off in collection bins located in the front lobbies of all three schools: Forestdale, Oak Ridge, and Sandwich Middle High School until Friday, April 10.

Questions? Please contact fgreene2030@sandwich.k12.ma.us
 

PROM 2026: LAST DAY TO GET TICKETS IS APRIL 10

flyer for prom
SMHS is excited to announce this year’s prom, A Night in Greece, is set for Saturday, May 2, 2026. The event will take place from 7:00–10:00 PM at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in Falmouth.

Juniors and seniors can look forward to an evening inspired by the beauty and elegance of Greece, complete with a scenic coastal setting and a memorable atmosphere.

Tickets are on sale now through April 10 and can be purchased before and after school in the main office for $85.
Don’t miss this special night!
 

STUDENT ARTWORK ON DISPLAY AT SANDWICH TOWN HALL

flyer for young artists gallery
The Young Artists Gallery at the Sandwich Arts Alliance is now open at Sandwich Town Hall / 130 Main Street. The gallery features artwork from talented Sandwich Public Schools students in grades K–12.

The gallery is open Tuesday–Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM through June 6.

New student artwork will be displayed seasonally throughout the year.

Congratulations to all of our amazing student artists!
 

Cranberry Coast Youth Field Hockey Registration Now Open

field hockey flyer
Registration is now open for Cranberry Coast Youth Field Hockey for students in grades K–12.
The six-week program will take place on Wednesday evenings beginning July 8 at the D-Y Middle School turf.

The program offers age-appropriate opportunities for all players, including an instructional clinic for grades K–2, a 7v7 league for grades 3–7 featuring both instruction and gameplay, and an 11v11 league for grades 8–12.

This is a great opportunity for players of all experience levels to learn, compete, and have fun this summer.

 

Graduation Bouquets and Custom Class T-Shirts Available for Preorder

Flyer for graduation preorders
Order now and pick-up on graduation day!

Custom Class of 2026 t-shirts are a unique keepsake that feature the SMHS Knight logo on the front and every graduate’s name printed on the back.

Bouquets will also be available as a thoughtful gift to congratulate graduates as they leave the stage and celebrate with family and friends.

To place an order in advance click the link below or families can scan the QR code on the flyer to order directly from their phone.
Graduation Preorders
 

SPRING TESTING DATES

MCAS testing dates for 2026:
Grade 10 ELA: 3/24 and 3/25
Grades 7 & 8 ELA: 4/8 and 4/9
Grades 7 & 8 math: 5/14 and 5/15
Grade 8 science: 5/18 and 5/19
Grade 10 math: 5/20 and 5/21
Grade 8 civics: 5/28 and 5/29
Biology (grade 9 and 10 where applicable): 6/2 and 6/3
Please keep the upcoming testing dates in mind. 

Students in designated grades will participate in MCAS testing on the dates listed above. We are sharing the schedule early to help families avoid absences whenever possible. Strong attendance during testing is important, as these assessments provide valuable information about student learning and school progress.
Thank you for your support!
 

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.
 

BLUE KNIGHT MARKET

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.
Blue Knight Market open from 5:00 PM - 6:00PM at SMHS every Wednesday! Pre-order with the QR code on the poster. All families are welcome!
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