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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

Castle Chronicles 05.04.26

Posted Date: 05/04/26 (09:44 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

May 4, 2026

JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM 2026

Prom photo
prom photo
prom photo
Prom photo
Prom photo
Prom photo
Prom photo
Prom photo
Prom photo
prom photo
Prom photo
 

Celebrating Academic Excellence: National Honor Society Induction

National Honor Society induction
Congratulations to the following juniors who were recently selected by the Faculty Council for induction into the SMHS Glass Chapter of the National Honor Society. The induction ceremony was held on Thursday, April 30, in the SMHS library.

Abigail Binienda
Grace Chanya
Broden Cochrane
Brendan Cronin
Addison DeCesare
Isabella DiGiacomo
Lilian Feth
Iris Gaffney
Delia Howell
Emma Keith
Olivia Lavery
Madison Lewis
Allie Loewen
Jane Malcolmson
Lauren Meyer
Bradley Moesman
Isabella Niemann
Casey Pestilli
Tenley Rothera
Caitlyn Smith
Jack Steele
Elisabeth Stutzman
Cora Tedeschi
Addyson Viola
Carly West
Ashlyn White
 

Excellence in Art: National Art Honor Society Inductees Recognized

Group shot of National  Art Honor Society
The following eleven extraordinarily talented student artists were inducted into the Sandwich Middle High School Chapter of the National Art Honor Society:

Dani Alves
Dahlia Edwards
Azriel Gallegos
Gianna Garvey
Yevheniia Lishchenko
Paisley Lemoi
Mae McCarville
Brianna Devers
Soleil Dulmaine
Carly West
Sam Thompson
National Art Honor Society
National Art Honor Society
National Art Honor Society event
 

PEDALING CHANGE: CIVIC ACTION PROJECT

middle school kids at forestdale
On Friday, May 1, Mr. Taylor’s 4th period grade 8 Civics class traveled to the Forestdale School and met with grade 2 PE classes to share the information they had researched on bike safety.

As part of their Civic Action Project, 8th graders researched issues surrounding biking in Sandwich which included meeting with local officials, including Sean Polay of the Bike and Pedestrian Safety Committee, to better understand community needs. In addition, the class is working with the Cape Cod Chapter of the New England Mountain Biking Association to support bike trail maintenance efforts.

The Civic Action Project is part of the Massachusetts Civics curriculum, which empowers students with the skills and knowledge to make a real-world impact in their community.
SMHS AT FORESTDALE
SMHS AT FORESTDALE
SMHS AT FORESTDALE
SMHS AT FORESTDALE
 

DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT

DIGITAL WELLBEING DAY
Sandwich Public Schools partnered with the Boston Children’s Hospital Digital Wellness Lab to host a successful Day of Digital Well-being on Tuesday, April 28.

Students participated in age-appropriate workshops led by the Digital Wellness Lab. These sessions discussed how online spaces are intentionally designed and encouraged students to reflect on their own digital habits. The goal of the day was to build student skills to feel more balanced and confident in their online interactions. A key takeaway emphasized that students have the power to make thoughtful, intentional choices about how they use technology.

SMHS thanks Boston Children's Hospital for their partnership in supporting the well-being of our students in an increasingly digital world.
students at presentation in Cafeteria
students at presentation in Cafeteria
presentation for students of digital balance
presentation for students of digital balance
 

ROOTED IN ACTION: ARBOR DAY

students digging to plant tree
The SMHS Environmental Club was hard at work planting three trees along the front of our school in recognition of Arbor Day.

Students rolled up their sleeves and learned the process of proper tree planting while making a lasting impact on the SMHS campus.

The project was completed in collaboration with Sandwich Tree Warden, James Sacco, and SPS Director of Facilities, Michael Ryan, whose guidance helped ensure the trees were planted for long-term success.

This initiative not only celebrates Arbor Day, but also highlights the club’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, stewardship, and improving the school grounds for years to come!
environmental club planting tree
environmental club planting tree
 

Middle School Planner Cover Contest Results

Contest winner
Students in 7th and 8th grade art classes were challenged to design the new Sandwich Middle High School daily planner cover for the 2026–2027 school year. Designs reflected the theme of Kindness, Gratitude, and Inclusivity.

Congratulations to the following students whose artwork (pictured below) was selected among the top designs:

Dylan Carroll, Grade 8
Stella Farrington, Grade 7
Harper Hansen, Grade 7
Bridget Gallagher, Grade 8
Hallie Jones, Grade 8
Manha Rashid, Grade 8
Ginger Gaffney, Grade 7
Adyson McCarthy, Grade 7
Amelia Daly, Grade 7

After a vote, Jiya Patel's design cover (featured above) was chosen as the winning planner cover for 2026-2027. Congratulations, Jiya!
Art contest
Art contest
Art contest finalist
Art contest finalist
 

WHERE ARE THEY GOING?!

Senior photo with collegs
Our seniors proudly showed off their future plans by wearing gear that highlights their exciting next step... whether it is the workforce, military, college, service or travel, they are bound for great success!

We’re so proud of the Class of 2026 and can’t wait to see all they accomplish in their next chapter!
Students with sweatshirts
Students with sweatshirts
 

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

MADASON PHILLIPS

Madason Phillips: Senior Spotlight
 

JOSHUA 'COOPER' MARK

All about Cooper Mark: Senior Spotlight
 

BREANNA PRINDLE

BREANNA PRINDLE: senior spotlight
 

7th GRADERS NAMED POETRY CONTEST FINALISTS

In a powerful intersection of literature and social reflection, our 7th-grade students spent the month of March exploring the profound meaning of peace. This creative endeavor coincided with their study of A Long Walk to Water, the moving true story of Salva Dut’s journey through the Sudanese Civil War. Inspired by Salva’s resilience, students penned their own original "Poems of Peace."

We are thrilled to announce that seven of our students have been named finalists in the 2026 VFP Voices of Peace Poetry Contest, sponsored by Cape Cod Veterans for Peace.

Please join us in congratulating our finalists:
  • Wesley Bolduc
  • Charlotte Chace
  • Shannon Duggan
  • Jayden Husers
  • Krish Patel
  • Olivia Michniewicz
  • Rosie Spurling

All finalists are invited to attend the official 2026 Poetry Awards Ceremony, where winning poets will share their work in a thoughtful, personal presentation. This event also honors the talented cover artists for this year's publication.
  • When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
  • Where: South Congregational Church (565 Main St, Centerville, MA)
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Registration begins at 9:30 AM)

Each participating poet will receive a certificate and a copy of the 2026 poetry publication. Additionally, the committee will present First Honors ($25) and Second Honors ($15) prizes during the ceremony.

We are incredibly proud of these students for using their voices to advocate for a more peaceful world.

Special thanks to grade 7 ELA teachers, Chris Tansey and Maria Cahill for facilitating these impactful experiences for our students!
 

KINDNESS IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

gift card drive flyer
SMHS middle school Student Council is proud to host a Gift Card Drive from May 4 - May 17 to support the Housing Assistance Corporation of Cape Cod.

We are collecting gift cards in small, accessible amounts—$5, $10, $15, and $20—to everyday locations that families rely on, including Cumberland Farms, Stop & Shop, McDonald’s, Dunkin’, Walmart, Target, and local gas stations.
Every donation, no matter the size, plays a meaningful role in supporting members of our community.

Gift cards can be dropped off at the SMHS front desk.
Questions?
Please contact jduffany@sandwich.k12.ma.us
 

🤾DODGE, DUCK AND DONATE!

dodgeball flyer
Middle school students: get ready for some fast-paced fun at the Middle School Dodgeball Tournament!

Grab your friends and form a team of up to 10 players for just $20 per team. Registration will take place during lunch in the large cafeteria.

📅 Thursday, May 7
5:30–7:00 PM
📍 SMHS Gym

All proceeds from the tournament will go directly to support the 7th and 8th grade classes, helping fund future activities and events.

Whether you’re dodging, throwing, or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a great way to have fun while supporting your classmates!
 

SERVING UP SUPPORT

flyer for volleyball event
Get ready for an afternoon of competition, school spirit, and giving back at Volleyball for a Cause, hosted by the SMHS Key Club. This exciting event will take place in the SMHS gym on Friday, May 8 at 4:00 PM.

Teams will compete in a best-of-three sets format, with a unique twist: the class that raises the most donations heading into the event earns a one-set advantage. It’s not just about what happens on the court—it’s about rallying your classmates and making an impact before the first serve.

Whether you’re playing, cheering, or just stopping by, this is a great chance to support a meaningful cause while enjoying a fun, competitive atmosphere.

Bring your friends, represent your class, and help make a difference!
 

SENDING SENIORS OFF WITH CARE!

flyer for college care kits
The Mental Health Advocacy Project is offering a thoughtful way to celebrate and support this year’s graduates with their Care Kits initiative.

For $25, each care kit is designed to help students transition into their next chapter, filled with a mix of school supplies, snacks, and wellness items to promote both success and self-care. In addition to purchasing a kit for your own graduate, families and community members also have the option to sponsor a care package for a student.

Care kits will be available in the front office from May 25 through June 29, as well as after graduation. Those interested can also use the QR code on the flyer to place an order or reach out directly to the organizers for more information.

This initiative not only provides practical support for students, but also reinforces the importance of mental health and well-being during times of transition.
 

Bonjour Montréal! SMHS Travel Opportunity

flyer for Montreal Trip
SMHS is excited to offer an upcoming educational travel opportunity to Montreal on April 19–23, 2027. This trip is open to French students in grades 9–12 (including incoming freshmen).

This immersive experience is designed to bring French language and culture to life, and give students the chance to explore a vibrant French-speaking city.

Interested students should visit Madame Walsh in Room D249.

Parents/guardians, please contact Julie Walsh at jwalsh@sandwich.k12.ma.us if you would like more details or if you have any questions.

Registration closes on September 30, 2026, and a $50 rebate will be applied to the first 20 students who sign up.
 

GRADE 7 DANCE ON MAY 15

Grade 7 Dance: Pastel Skies
May 15
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
SMHS Cafeteria
$10.00 per ticket
Permission Slips available the week of the dance.
 

SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES AT SANDWICH RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Sandwich Recreation Information
Hiring: Beach Gate Attendants / Sandwich Recreation Dept
Golf Tournament Information
See Sandwich Recreation Office
 

HONORING COLBY: PLAYING IT FORWARD ⚾️

flyer for Colby Lippincott
The 3rd Annual Colby Lippincott Memorial Wiffle Ball Tournament will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Sandwich Middle High School.

This community event brings people together for a day of fun, competition, and connection, all while honoring Colby Lippincott’s legacy. In addition to the tournament, attendees can enjoy food trucks, a silent auction, and other activities throughout the day.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Colby Lippincott Memorial Fund.

In addition, commemorative t-shirts will be available for purchase. T-shirts are $20 and will be sold at Sandwich Middle High School on Tuesday, May 6 from 7:00 AM - 7:30 AM in the lobby. They will also be available at varsity baseball games on May 7 and May 13 from 4:30 PM–6:00 PM.

Proceeds from t-shirt sales will go toward the Colby Lippincott “Pay It Forward” Scholarships awarded to SMHS seniors.
Cly t-shirt
 

Don’t Wait—Get Advice About College Payments

webinar flyer for financial aid
Jodi Conway, our college financial aid resource, is offering an informative webinar for senior families:

In this session, Jodi will cover:
  • Monthly payment plan options
  • Private and federal student loans
  • Interest rates and repayment options
  • Recommended lenders and key considerations

Webinar Dates (choose one):



We encourage all senior families to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

Questions?
Submit them in advance to: jodi@conwaycollegeaid.com
 

PROTECTING KIDS IN A DIGITAL WORLD

flyer for webinar on internet safety
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will be hosting its final internet safety webinar of the school year, focused on helping adults better understand emerging online threats facing children and how to keep them safe.
This session will include updated information on:
  • Nihilistic Violent Extremist groups
  • The impact of Generated Artificial Intelligence
  • Current trends in online safety risks
Representatives from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) will also join the presentation to highlight available resources and discuss the CyberTipline.
We encourage all school staff, families, and community partners to take advantage of this important opportunity to stay informed and proactive in protecting our students online.

Registration Details

Questions or difficulty registering?
Please contact Karen Legace at USAMA.PSCOutreach@usdoj.gov

 
Sandwich Youth Basketball Summer Hoops
Registration is now open for this 6-week summer program for rising 3rd–8th grade students, running July 6 through August 12. All abilities are welcome.

REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER HOOPS!

Sandwich Youth Basketball Summer Hoops Registration is now open!
This 6-week summer program is for rising 3rd–8th grade students, and runs from July 6 through August 12. All abilities are welcome!
 

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 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