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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

Castle Chronicles 04.13.26

Posted Date: 04/13/26 (07:58 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

April 13, 2026

KTC DELIVERS AN UNFORGETTABLE DEAR EVAN HANSEN! 🎭✨

Dear Evan Hansen

Who Needs Broadway When You Have KTC? 🎭🌟

This weekend’s KTC performances of Dear Evan Hansen were absolutely phenomenal! From the first note to the final bow, the production showcased truly professional-level vocals and captivating stage presence that drew the audience in and never let go. The innovative use of technology and creative design elements elevated every moment.

The incredible performers brought such emotion and energy to the stage, as well as the talented tech crew whose behind-the-scenes brilliance and creativity made the entire production extraordinary.

Bravo to Knights Theatre Company and their director, Anthony Teixeira, for courageously and boldly taking on a musical with such layered and complex themes and delivering it with clarity, heart, artistry and sensitivity. 👏🎭

There are still three opportunities to see KTC's Dear Evan Hansen next weekend. Performances will be on Friday, April 17, at 7:00 PM and on Saturday, April 18, at 2:00 PM and at 7:00 PM.
Dear Evan Hansen
Dear Evan Hansen
 

Community Partners Support Mental Health at KTC Performances 💙

We extend our sincere thanks to our SMHS School Social Workers, the SMHS Mental Health Advocacy Project Club, Justice Resource Institute Cape Cod, and Bay Cove Behavioral Health & Wellness Center Hyannis for generously volunteering their time and mental health resources to support our school community.

SMHS is pleased to share that these community resources will be available at all Dear Evan Hansen performances.
 

YOU ARE NOT ALONE🌳💙: Messages of Love & Belonging

KTC BIO'S
Be sure to also check out the interactive lobby display, created by our outstanding parent volunteer Barbara Hayes. The display features trees and apples filled with positive affirmations, tying perfectly into the themes of Dear Evan Hansen and creating a meaningful, immersive experience for all who attend.

In addition, the KTC bios displayed in the foyer highlight the incredible talent we have here at SMHS! Take a moment to stop, read and appreciate the work of our extraordinary students.
positive affirmation tree
positive affirmation tree
KTC BIO'S
KTC BIO'S
 

Making Waves: HUNTER MORGAN Earns All-Scholastic Honors

Hunter Morgan
SMHS junior Hunter Morgan has been named a 2026 Boys Swimming All-Scholastic by the Boston Herald, recognizing him as one of the top swimmers in the state.

Morgan’s selection comes after a dominant season in the pool. He captured both the Division 2 South Sectional and Division 2 State Championship titles in the 100 backstroke, set a new school record in the event, and was named Cape & Islands League MVP.
In addition to his Herald recognition, Morgan was also selected as a league All-Star, capping off an exceptional year.

We are incredibly proud of Hunter! His hard work, dedication, and success in the pool continue to represent the Blue Knights and SMHS at the highest level.
Hunter Morgan flexing
Hunter Morgan winning race
 

TRAINING TOMORROW'S HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS: INSIDE THE BIOMEDICAL LAB

Human Body systems
Students in Human Body Systems participated in a Heart Activity Lab, where they explored different ways to measure and understand heart health. During the lab, students used stethoscopes to listen to heartbeats, located pulse points, and measured blood pressure, gaining practical experience with real-world medical tools and techniques.

This course is part of the SMHS Biomedical Pathway program open to all students interested in pursuing careers in health-related fields such as nursing, physical therapy, medicine, and pharmacy .

Through engaging activities like this, students are building foundational skills and knowledge that prepare them for future studies and careers in the medical field.
Human body systems class
Human body systems class
Human body systems class
Human body systems class
 

BYTES OF KINDNESS 💙: Computer Science Students Support the Community

Liliana Belcher and Prisha Bajracharya
The SMHS Computer Science Honor Society will be at the Sandwich Public Library to offer tech assistance to community members. Pictured above, members Prisha Bajracharya and Lilliana Belcher volunteered their time to provide tech support at the Sandwich Public Library. Assisting community members with iPhones, laptops, and other devices, they offer their skills to troubleshoot and assist with tech related questions.

This initiative will continue as a monthly Computer Science Honor Society service project, offering all members of the Sandwich community an ongoing opportunity to receive help from our student experts!
 

FROM LAB TO LIFE!✨: INSIDE THE STRETCH SCIENCE GUEST SERIES

GUEST SPEAKERS IN MRS. MELL-TAYLORS CLASS
During the month of March, grade 7 science teachers, Ms. Mell-Taylor and Ms. Fudala, welcomed six guest speakers, a;; scientific experts from our local community! Each speaker was intentionally selected for their direct connection to our Biomedical Pathway program.
Guest Speakers:
  • March 3: Katie Moore – Director of Endangered Animals and the Stranding Program, IFAW
  • March 10: Dr. Hansen – Associates of Cape Cod (Horseshoe Crab Blood Research, BioTech/BioPharma)
  • March 17: Dr. McCartney – Veterinarian, Barnstable Animal Hospital
  • March 24: Ella Brady & Sophie Strano – Merchant Marines
  • March 31: Katie Reilly – Cape Cod Public Health (Forensic Nurse)

These sessions provide our youngest scientists with valuable real-world insight and bring classroom learning to life while making career connections within the Biomedical field.
GUEST SPEAKERS
GUEST SPEAKERS
GUEST SPEAKERS IN MRS. MELL TAYLORS CLASS
GUEST SPEAKERS IN MRS. MELL TAYLORS CLASS
 

FROM WOOD TO WATER 🌲➡️🌊 WOODSHOP STUDENTS CRAFT ADVENTURE

Canoe Paddles in Wood Tech III
Students in Mr. Mruk’s Wood Tech III class designed and built their own custom canoe paddles!
Using woodworking techniques: cutting, shaping, sanding, and finishing, each student created a fully functional paddle while developing precision and craftsmanship. The project not only highlighted their technical skills, but also emphasized the importance of design, durability, and attention to detail.

Now all that’s left is for students to patiently (or not so patiently!) wait for sunny skies and warm temperatures so they can hit the water and put their craftsmanship to the test. 🌊🛶
 

LET THE GAMES BEGIN! 🏛️ OLYMPIC SPIRIT, ANCIENT STYLE

Olympics
Our 7th grade historians stepped into the sandals of ancient Greek athletes during our annual Social Studies Class Olympics! This fun event was designed to deepen students’ understanding of Ancient Greek achievements, particularly their contributions to sports and competition.

The competition was fierce as grade 7 civics teachers, Mrs. Evans-Green’s classes faced off against Mrs. Lewis’s classes in a legendary showdown worthy of Mount Olympus! Each class competed in six Olympic-Inspired events.

  • Pass the Torch Relay Race
  • Trivia Challenge
  • Hoops Competition
  • Javelin Throw
  • Discus Throw
  • Long Jump

Students brought their A-game, showing off not only their athletic skills but also their knowledge of Ancient Greece. The energy was high, the teamwork was strong, and the friendly competition helped bring history to life.

Congratulations to Ms. Lewis's Class for taking the trophy for the second year in a row! 
2nd annual Greek Olympic Games
2nd annual Greek Olympic Games
2nd annual Greek Olympic Games
 

LOCAL LEADERS VISIT CIVICS CLASSES 🏛️

Town administrator and others
8th Grade Civics students continue their work on Civic Action Projects, researching real issues that impact their community, including road safety, affordable housing, school traffic, and bike safety.

As part of this ongoing work, students welcomed local leaders into the classroom to share their expertise and perspectives. Guest speakers included Town Manager Bud Dunham, Assistant Town Manager Heather Harper, Recreation Director Tricia MacDonald, Director of Public Works Paul Tilton, Director of Community Services Guy Boucher, Library Director Diane Costagliola, and Communications Coordinator Cait Fogarty.

These visits provided students with valuable insight into how local government operates and how different departments collaborate to address community needs.

SMHS thanks our local leaders for volunteering their time and sharing their expertise with our students. Thank you!
Mr. Duffany Civics class
Mr. Duffany Civics class
Mr. Duffany Civics class
Mr. Duffany Civics class
 

Class of 2027 Takes on Biliteracy Exam

sEAL OF bILITERACY FLYER
Many SMHS class of '27 students will take an exam to qualify for the Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy this week. For many of these students, this is a culmination of 6 years of language study. For others it is an opportunity to be recognized for language skills from home or other life experience. Students who earn the Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy are eligible to receive college credits at state colleges and universities.

For more information about the program, contact World Language Department Chair, Liam Kelly lkelly@sandwich.k12.ma.us or English Language Learning Coordinator, Camila DeOliveira cdeoliveira@sandwich.k12.ma.us
 

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!
 

Donuts and Dialogue: College Conversations

flyer The Mental Health Advocacy (MHA) Project is hosting a discussion designed to connect seniors with underclassmen to talk through the college application and decision-making process.

This opportunity is open to all sophomores and juniors and offers a chance to hear directly from peers about their experiences, insights, and advice.
The SMHS Mental Health Advocacy (MHA) Project is hosting a discussion designed to connect seniors with underclassmen to talk through the college application and decision-making process.

This opportunity is open to all sophomores and juniors and offers a chance to hear directly from current seniors about their experiences, insights, and advice.

Scan the QR code above to sign-up!
 

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!
 

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