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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

Castle Chronicles 05.11.26

Posted Date: 05/11/26 (07:38 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

May 11, 2026

GRADES 7 & 8 MATH MCAS: MAY 14 & MAY 15

MCAS TESTING THIS WEEK:
GRADE 7 AND 8 MATH
Thursday, May 14 and Friday, May 15
testing starts at 7:30 AM
Fully Charged Chromebook needed
Eat a good breakfast! Breakfast is free every morning!

Upcoming Grade 7 & 8 Math MCAS

Math MCAS testing will take place on Thursday, May 14 and Friday, May 15. To help students do their very best, please make sure they arrive to school on time each day, as testing begins promptly at 7:30 AM. Students should also bring their fully charged Chromebook.

As a reminder, free breakfast is available daily in the cafeteria, and convenient grab-n-go breakfast options are also offered at the 2nd floor lobby kiosk.

A good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and a positive mindset can make a big difference!

We know our middle school students are ready to shine, and we appreciate your support in helping them start each day prepared and confident!
 

THE DUNGEON: BLUE KNIGHTS FOREVER

The Dungeon
The latest edition of The Dungeon is here, featuring a special Senior Show Edition created by the SMHS Sports Broadcasting class. This episode highlights some memorable stories from Blue Knight senior athletes.

Featuring Joe Coughlan’s journey to playing Division I baseball, Girls Lacrosse seniors mentoring the next generation of players, Drew Peters’ rise from team manager to team captain, and Kylee Beaudoin’s successful transition from basketball to track, these senior athlete stories leave an inspirational legacy of hope for all of our younger student-athletes.

Please click on the YouTube link below to watch this special episode of The Dungeon.
Blue Knights Forever Episode
 

SMHS SUPPORTS SHRINERS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Volleyball for a cause
SMHS students came together for the Volleyball for a Cause event hosted by the SMHS Key Club. The event brought friendly competition, school spirit, and community support, with all proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s Hospital in Boston.

The event was a great success and showcased the leadership, teamwork, and generosity of SMHS students while making a meaningful impact beyond the classroom! Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event!
Volleyball for a cause
Volleyball for a cause
Volleyball for a Cause
 

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF EDUCATION AT SMHS

DESE SPEAKER
Grade 8 students in Mr. Duffany’s Period 3 class chose a Civic Action Project related to the processes surrounding missing school due to weather and having makeup days that extend the school year into late June.

Exercising agency and community outreach, the students contacted the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Deputy Commissioner of Education, Mr. Robert Curtin. Mr. Curtain accepted the invitation to visit SMHS to discuss the topic in person. During the visit, students asked questions, shared ideas, and learned more about the current policies surrounding attendance requirements in terms of school days and hours on learning. They also discussed the process for making changes in the future.

SMHS is grateful to Deputy Commissioner Curtin for taking the time to engage with our students and support their civic learning experience.
DESE speaker
DESE speaker
DESE speaker
DESE SPEAKER
 

MENTORSHIP IN ACTION

SNHS STUDENTS HELPING OUT
Students from the SMHS Science National Honor Society have once again partnered with Oak Ridge young scientists as they prepare their science fair projects. During after-school, drop-in sessions, high school students worked with 5th and 6th grade students offering feedback, answering questions, and helping refine project ideas.

The collaboration was a meaningful experience for both the younger students and the high school volunteers. This marks the second year of the partnership, facilitated by Oak Ridge science teachers and SMHS biology teacher and National Science Honor Society Advisor, Ms. Rebecca Wheeler. SMHS plans to continue this wonderful partnership in the future.
SNHS helping out
SNHS helping out
SNHS helping out
 
 

SMHS Robotics Team Makes a Splash at Regional Competition

Robotics competition
On Saturday, May 2, two teams from the SMHS Robotics Club competed in the 2026 New England Regional MATE ROV Competition at Massasoit Community College.

Representing SMHS were Sandwich Blue Knights 1: Luke Glaser, Owen Kravitz, and Dillon Florence. Sandwich Blue Knights 2 were represented by Jonathan McElroy and Brennan MacQuade.

During the competition, students used their remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to complete a variety of underwater tasks modeled after real-world challenges faced by marine technology professionals.

Congratulations to Sandwich Blue Knights 1, who earned first place in the Product Demonstration category for scoring the most points in the underwater task competition!
Robotics competition
Robotics competition
Robotics Competition
Robotics Competition
 

Student Innovation on Display at One8 Showcase

One8 Field Trip
On Friday SMHS students traveled to Boston to present their projects to industry professionals at the statewide One8 Showcase.

The following students were selected to participate:
  • Amelie Andrieu
  • Luke Glaser
  • Owen Kravitz
  • Kirby Mock
  • Luke Pitta
  • Jackson Porter
  • Zachary Sage
  • Diego Santos
  • Taliesin Taylor
  • Emma Wells
  • Maura Wells

Hosted by the One8 Foundation, the showcase is part of the organization’s Applied Learning initiative, which connects students with professionals in authentic learning environments while celebrating creativity, innovation, and hard work.

Congratulations to our students for representing SMHS and showcasing their impressive work on a statewide stage!
One8 Field Trip
One8 Field Trip
One8 Field Trip
One8 Field Trip
 

THREE SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: COLLABORATION

Change Projects
As part of a new Change Projects series, SMHS students supported Oak Ridge students with persuasive writing and marketing efforts.

Opportunities for SMHS students to work with elementary students benefit both age groups in meaningful ways. Younger students gain positive role models, build confidence, and often feel more connected and excited about school when interacting with older peers. At the same time, our SMHS students develop leadership, communication, patience, and mentoring skills while learning the value of responsibility and service to others.

These collaborative partnerships build a stronger sense of community and connection across schools and grade levels. We look forward to continuing our work with Oak Ridge School and Forestdale School in the future!

SMHS students involved in the Change Project Series included:
Aza Boccalini
Luke Caleshu
Nathan de Blank
Nathalia deDeus
Dan Flynn
Nathan Howell
Annabelle Marchand
Nick Pearce
Breanna Prindle
Change Project Series
Change Project Series
Change Project Series
 

MODERN MEDIA MEETS THE CLASSICS

English Class podcast
Grade 8 students in Mrs. Craig and Mr. Stone’s English classes took a creative approach to literary analysis through a podcast project based on Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. Instead of writing a traditional essay, students created podcasts that blended analysis, storytelling, and discussion while still using many of the same organizational and critical thinking skills required in essay writing.

Students selected topics connected to themes, characters, or ideas from the novel. Teachers encouraged originality and authenticity throughout the process. Students researched quotes, developed purposeful questions to perpetuate discourse, and intertwined evidence from the book into their conversations to support their ideas. Students then chose Podcast topics such as fishing, summer jobs, Needoh toys, etc. One group even centered their podcast around Dunkin' Donuts, creatively connecting the product to themes and concepts from the novel.

The project allowed students to think beyond the traditional essay format while strengthening communication, collaboration, analysis, and storytelling skills in an engaging and modern way.
English Class podcast
English Class podcast
English Class podcast
English Class podcast
 

SMHS Astrophysics Club Receives Generous Telescope Donation

Telescope donation photo
SAM MCIIVAN AND HIS TELESCOPE DONATION
A very special thank you to senior Sam McIlvin and his family for their generous donation of an Orion SkyQuest XT8 Telescope to the SMHS Astrophysics Club! The telescope was presented to club president Samantha Thompson and will now be available for student use and exploration right here at school.

Under the supervision of Dr. Anderson and Mr. Dumas, students have the exciting opportunity to observe the night sky, deepen their understanding of astronomy, and bring classroom learning to life through observational discovery.

Pictured above are Samantha Thompson, Sam McIlvin, and Sam’s mother, Carrie.
 

SMHS Spring Concert: DEFYING GRAVITY

Music Flyer
SANDWICH SOUL and SMHS BAND & MUSIC CLASSES will perform the 2026 Spring Concert, Defying Gravity, on Tuesday, May 19, at 6:30 PM in the SMHS Auditorium.

The evening will feature performances by the SMHS Band and Choral Ensembles, celebrating themes of growth, resilience, and reaching new heights.

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend this special performance! We hope to see you there!
 

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

SAMEEN SHAHID

senior spotlight: Sameen Shahid
 

SARAH JOHNSON

Senior Spotlight: Sarah Johnson
 

GRADE 8 DANCE: MAY 29 AT 6:00 PM

8th grade dance flyer
Step into a night of elegance and celebration at the SMHS 8th Grade Dance, Hollywood 2026! Students are invited to enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and unforgettable memories on Friday, May 29 from 6–8 PM in the SMHS Cafeteria.

Semi-formal attire is welcome as we transform the cafeteria into a glamorous Hollywood-inspired experience complete with lights, music, and red-carpet vibes.

Tickets are $10.00 and will be sold in the cafeteria during lunches from May 25–29. All students must have completed a permission slip prior to purchasing a ticket.

We look forward to celebrating our 8th graders with a fun and memorable night before they take the next step into high school!
 

GIFT CARD DRIVE FOR THE HOUSING ASSISTANCE CORP. OF CAPE COD

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 like Cumberland Farms, Stop & Shop, 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. Please contact Jeff Duffany jduffany@sandwich.k12.ma.us with questions.
 

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 ⚾️

Colby Registration
The Sandwich community will once again come together on Saturday, August 8, 2026, for the 3rd Annual Colby Lippincott Memorial Wiffle Ball Tournament at Sandwich Middle High School. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, August 9.

Organized in honor of Colby and led by the Lippincott family and community supporters, the tournament continues to celebrate friendship, community, and Colby’s lasting impact while raising scholarship funds for Sandwich Middle High School seniors.

Thanks to the incredible support from last year’s event, registration is completely free this year to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Donations are welcome, and teams are encouraged to register early as spots are limited and filling quickly.

The event will feature youth and adult divisions, prizes for Best Team Name and Most Creative Team T-Shirts, memorial tournament T-shirts for purchase, and sponsorship opportunities for local businesses.

Families interested in learning more, registering, or viewing photos and videos from previous tournaments can visit the Colby Lippincott Memorial Wiffle Ball Tournament Facebook page.

Colby registration
Colby T Shirt
 

Don’t Wait—Get Advice About College Payments

financial aid flyer
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
 
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