Dear Clarkville Middle Families and Community,
This week was filled with celebrations of quarter 1 and engagement with our theme of Kindness for quarter 2! My highlights were playing Exploding Kittens with a group of students during the celebration this afternoon, and seeing students in the cafe playing Bingo with the PTA this afternoon. Thank you to Ms. Lazarides and Ms. Gilligan for organizing the celebration, and for PTA and Mr. Farmer for the Bingo! What a great week!
Yesterday afternoon we celebrated our Orbiters, the November Students of the month. Look out below for the amazing young people who were recognized for their hard work and service:
6th Grade: Daysi D, Ian H, Tisya G, Linny K
7th Grade: Roban T, Reese J, Arnav R
8th Grade: Zoey W, Aarnav P, Selena N, Ava Z
This week our students held their SGA election: We want to give a huge shout-out to all the students who ran for office this year. Not only did you create amazing posters and videos, but you also demonstrated a desire to improve the CMS community. Well done!
Secondly, congratulations to the winners of the 2026-27 SGA Executive Board election:
President: Samiksh C
Vice President: Aria H
Secretary: Naira G
Community Outreach Coordinator: Grace Z
Also, this week I received notification that 7th grader Katherine S was selected as a Governor's Citation recipient at the 48th Korean Festival, organized by the Korean Society of Maryland. Katherine contributed to organizing the event and performed in a martial arts demonstration. Congratulations Katherine and I encourage any families or students who receive honors to let us know so we can celebrate with you for your demonstration of excellence.
The month of November is jam packed with important events:
- Report cards are released this afternoon, November 6, in HCPSS connect and we encourage you to review grades with your students, celebrate successes and consider signing up for conferences in November if there are areas that should be problem-solved with our instructors.
- Conferences will be held from November 23 to November 25. Conference sign ups open Today, November 6, in HCPSS Connect. See below for more information. Please limit conferences to three per student and prioritize scheduling conferences for courses where you have a concern about student progress (typically for students with a C or below). This allows us to keep as many spots open as we can for problem solving conversations to ensure we have the right support in place for our students.
- American Education Week is from November 16-20. See below for information on the Six Grade Scoop for grade 6 parents and options to meet with admin and visit classes for any grade level.
Check out the information below for items we’ve been sending out this week, and a number of new items. Let us know if you have any questions or if there is something you’d like to see in the newsletter. All of this information is also posted on our website at http://cms.hcpss.org/.
There is nothing too big or too small for us to work on together, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Regards,
Richard Smart, Principal (richard_smart@hcpss.org)
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Check out our stories on Instagram at @CMS_Comets
Upcoming Dates:
11/6: Report Cards Issued and November Conferences sign up opens
11/6: Quarter 1 Celebration (Activities during our celebration period at the end of the school day)
11/6: PTA Bingo and Board Games
11/11: Picture Retakes
11/11: November PTA Meeting, 7pm CMS Library and Online
11/16-20: American Education Week (G6 Scoop, Class visits, and Coffee with Admin 11/17, G6 FT to Medieval Times 11/20)
11/23: In-Person Conferences/3 hour early dismissal from school (11:35am)
11/24: Virtual Conferences/3 hour early dismissal from school (11:35am)
11/25: Virtual Conferences/No School for Students
Action Items:
November Parent Teacher Conferences
Did you know that parent/teacher conferences are coming up near the end of November? Here is the timeline for your reference.
- November 6: Scheduling will open to parents at all schools at 8:00 am
- November 19: Scheduling is closed for parents/guardians at 4:00 pm
- November 23: In-Person Conferences
- November 24-25: Virtual Conferences
- Conferences will be 10 minutes with 5 minutes built in to get to your next conference.
Conferences are scheduled through your Synergy Connect account. You can view the directions for scheduling conferences here.
Please prioritize scheduling conferences for courses where you have a concern about student progress (typically for students with a C or below). This allows us to keep as many spots open as we can for problem solving conversations to ensure we have the right supports in place for our students.
You are always welcome to reach out to our staff at any time during the school year and we want to connect with you. The CMS teachers are excited to share your child's progress this year with you!
7 Teacher of the Year process is available on the HCPSS website.
Picture Retakes on November 11
How it Works:
You can still order on mylifetouch.com.
Create an account or login with your Picture Day ID: RGBNNMTVE
Questions? Contact our Help Center at lifetouch.com/support-us.
Orders will be sent home with your student after Picture Retake Day.
Students are photographed on Picture Retake Day.
New or Highlighted Information Items:
Report Cards
With the conclusion of the first quarter on Tuesday, Quarter 1 report cards will be available to view and download online starting next Friday.
How to access your child's report card once available:
- Log in to HCPSS Connect Synergy using your parent/guardian credentials.
- Select More Options from the left panel.
- Select Report Cards from the middle menu.
- Choose the report card you wish to access.
For additional guidance, detailed instructions are available on the HCPSS Help Center.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support!
The Young Authors' Contest
The Howard County Literacy Association invites students in grades 6-8 to submit their original poems and/or short stories to the annual writing contest called The Young Authors' Contest. Please see the attached Young Authors’ Contest Guidelines. for information about the rules and guidelines. Stories and poems must be typed and saved as a Word Doc or Googledoc. All entries must have a completed YAC Cover Sheet. sent as a PDF. Submissions can be entered via CMS YAC Google Form. only (no paper submissions) by January 8, 2027. Contact Mrs. Gilbert (jessica_gilbert@hcpss.org) with any questions. All Young Authors’ Contest information can be found on the HCLA website..
Howard County Literacy Association welcomes parents as members. Visit the HCLA Welcome Page. for information about joining.
American Education Week is 11/16-11/20.
American Education Week is an exciting opportunity for our students and staff to show off all the great things happening here at Clarksville Middle School.
While you are welcome to visit any time during the week, specifically between the hours of 7:50 am and 2:35 pm, we have chosen Tuesday, November 17 to highlight a variety of opportunities our students have here at CMS.
On Tuesday, November 17 we will be hosting a number of activities to highlight learning and student experiences at CMS.
- The 6th Grade Team is hosting a casual Parent Meet & Greet — The 6th Grade Scoop! 🕐 8:50–9:25 AM – Meet most of the 6th grade teachers during their PIP period
- 🕑 9:30–10:15 AM – Mr. Smart and Ms. Richie will meet with families from all grades in the📍 Media Center
- Staff will be expecting parents in classes ALL DAY
Important Procedures:
- Please fill out this survey to let us know if you are attending any of the activities during the week to help us to prepare seating, schedules, and coffee and snacks.
- Please make sure your Family File is updated. Only those on the emergency card will be allowed to visit students/classrooms.
- Limited parking available, please park in any available spaces.
- Please check-in with the main office to sign in and sign a visitor's confidentiality form. Please remember to bring your identification.
- While in the building please wear your visitors badge at all times and ensure it is visible for staff to see.
- While in the building, please put your phone away and/or on silent and no photography/videography is allowed.
- Please sign-out prior to leaving. Should there be an emergency we need to account for all visitors in the building.
American Education Week Sign Up Form for Parents: https://forms.gle/ottbLY4K3sDXvrY89
The 6th Grade Scoop!
📣 Join Us!
The 6th Grade Team is hosting a casual Parent Meet & Greet — The 6th Grade Scoop!
🗓 November 17
🕐 8:50–9:25 AM – Meet most of the 6th grade teachers during their PIP period
🕑 9:30–10:15 AM – Mr. Smart and Ms. Richie will meet with families
📍 Media Center
This informal event is for families who don’t have academic concerns but would like to connect with teachers in lieu of conferences. We hope to see you there!
PTA General Membership Meeting
November 11 | 7:00–8:00 PM
Monthly meetings are now hybrid until our last meeting in May. Please join us in the CMS Media Center or use this Google Meet link to participate and hear organizational updates.
November is Native American Heritage Month-
What is it?
In 1976, President Gerald Ford proclaimed October 10-16 “Native American Awareness Week”. A decade later, Congress passed a resolution petitioning the president to call November 23-30 “American Indian Week.” In subsequent years, Congress continued this practice, declaring one week during the autumn months “Native American Indian Heritage Week.” In 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed into law a joint resolution designating the month of November as the first National American Indian Heritage Month (also known as Native American Indian Month). Native American Heritage Month is a period in November where the United States celebrates and recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans and Alaska Natives, honoring the traditions, languages, and stories of the first inhabitants of this land.
Why November?
Congress ultimately chose November as the month to honor Native Americans since the month concludes their traditional harvest season and generally is a time of celebration and giving thanks. Source: United States Senate
Language Updates: American Indian, Indian, Native American, Indigenous, or Native?
All of these terms are acceptable. The consensus, however, is that whenever possible, Native people prefer to be called by their specific tribal name. In the United States, Native American has been widely used but is falling out of favor with some groups, and the terms American Indian or Indigenous American are preferred by many Native people. Native peoples often have individual preferences on how they would like to be addressed. When talking about Native groups or people, use the terminology the members of the community use to describe themselves collectively. Source: National Museum of the American Indian
Repeat Information Items:
Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) Career Academy Open Houses – Nov. 11 and Dec. 8, 2026
October 12th, 2026
Current students in grades 8–11 and their parents or guardians are invited to attend an in-person open house on Wednesday, Nov. 11, and Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2026 from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC), located at 10920 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City.
On both Nov. 11 and Dec. 8, guests will have the opportunity to walk about and explore CTEC’s career academies and learn how Career and Technical Education provides high school students with opportunities to earn college credit, scholarships, and industry-recognized credentials. Students can also participate in worksite and mentorship experiences while developing creativity, problem-solving skills, and career-ready skills through hands-on, project-based learning.
Complete information about all career academies is available online. Students and parents are encouraged to review the CTEC Career Academies Overview.
Participating academies include:
- Aerospace Engineering: Project Lead the Way
- Animal and Agricultural Science
- Animation and Game Design
- Apprenticeship Maryland (for current 11th graders)
- Architectural Design
- Automotive Technology
- Biotechnology
- Civil Engineering: Project Lead the Way
- Construction and Carpentry
- Cybersecurity
- Network Security Engineering
- Finance
- Graphic Design and Print Production
- Health Professions
- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Parking at Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) is limited. Additional parking can be found on premises in the Homewood School and Board of Education parking lots.
Math Counts
Parents and Students,
This year Clarksville Middle School will be hosting the AMC 10 and AMC 8 math competitions. The AMC 8 does not take place until January and registration will begin in November.
The AMC 10 will take place on Thursday, November 5 from 2:35 - 4:05. Students must be picked up at 4:05 or have permission to walk home. Students who do not attend school that day may not compete in the competition.
The AMC 10 provides students with an opportunity to develop their problem-solving skills. It serves as the first step in qualifying for the USA team in prestigious international mathematics competitions, including the International Mathematical Olympiad.
Description:
The AMC 10 is a 25-question, 75-minute multiple-choice competition designed for students in grades 10 and below. The content covers mathematical topics such as elementary algebra, basic geometry, area and volume formulas, elementary number theory, and elementary probability. Advanced topics like trigonometry, advanced algebra, and advanced geometry are excluded.
For: High school students in grades 10 and below, with a maximum age of under 17.5 years on the day of the competition.
Registration: To register, complete this Google Form: https://forms.gle/JGt6d4JvozVMLfHR7
There is a $5.00 nonrefundable registration fee that must be paid immediately upon registration. Registration may be paid with check, made out to Clarksville Middle School or in exact cash. No change can be given. Payment must be given to Mr. Brubaker in an envelope with your child's name on it and AMC 10 written on it.
Students need to bring their computer the day of the test.
Registration and Payment are due by Tuesday, October 27.
If you have any questions, contact Graig Brubaker graig_brubaker@hcpss.org
UPDATED ESSAY QUESTIONS: THE CARSON SCHOLARS FUND 2027 SCHOLARSHIP
The Carson Scholars Program recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding community service. Carson Scholars receive a $1,000 scholarship, medal and certificate, recognition at a regional awards banquet, a trophy
CMS CAN NOMINATE ONE STUDENT
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for Clarksville Middle School’s 2027 nomination, students must:
- Have a minimum 3.75 GPA in the combined academic subjects of English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and World Language, based on the Quarter 1 report card.
- Demonstrate outstanding community service beyond school requirements.
- NOT be a previous Carson Scholar recipient.
Applicants will be considered based on their teacher recommendation, community service, and essay.
Essay Grades 6–8 Choose ONE | 450- 500 Words
Length: 450-word minimum, 500-word maximum. Please check your word count before submitting.
OPTION 1: BUILDING YOUR LEGACY
People often think about leaving a legacy later in life, but our actions today shape how others remember us. What kind of legacy do you want to begin building now? Explain how education, service, and paying it forward can help you leave a positive impact on your school and community.
OPTION 2: LEADERSHIP THROUGH SERVICE
Leadership is not only about being in charge—it’s also about helping others succeed. Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership by serving someone else. What qualities do you believe make an effective leader?
SUBMIT BY NOVEMBER 13, 2026
Submit your essay and list of Community Service activities to Julie Prince in Student Service (julie_prince@hcpss.org) or share it with her through Google Docs by November 13, 2026 by 8:00pm to be considered for the CMS nomination.
GOOD LUCK, FUTURE CARSON SCHOLARS!
Scholarship Toolkit - Student/Family
From the PTA:
PTA Bingo and Board Games
November 6 | 2:35–4:10 PM
Students can stay after school to play bingo and board games! Small prizes (everyone is a winner 😉), snacks, and drinks will be provided. This is another opportunity for students to build positive relationships and make fun memories at CMS. Pickup is at 4:10 pm. Tickets are on sale now at https://cmsptacomets.givebacks.com/shop.
PTA Reflections Art Program
Submissions due November 1st
There is still time to create an entry! Please visit this link for more information about participating in Reflections. Please use this Google Form to submit your entry.
Volunteer Opportunities
The PTA needs volunteers for our after school events! Each of these opportunities requires a time commitment of two hours on a single afternoon (2:15-4:15 pm). Please click on the links to view the SignUpGenius page. Thank you for your help!
· Fall After School Recess & Social (Friday, 10/9)
· Bingo & Board Games (Friday, 11/6)
October Career Cluster
As part of our HCPSS Monthly Career Cluster Spotlight, this month we’re highlighting Public Service & Safety—a broad cluster with many career paths focused on serving others, protecting communities, solving problems, and responding to challenges.
Career Areas to Explore
🚒 Emergency Response: Firefighting, EMS, disaster response
⚖️ Judicial Systems: Legal services, courts, corrections, law enforcement support
🏛️ Government Services: Public administration, planning, and public policy
🛡️ Military & National Security: Defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity
👮 Public Safety: Law enforcement, security, and community protection
Career Trends
Students may be interested to know that:
- Cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, and technology skills are increasingly important in public safety and national security.
- Certifications, training programs, and apprenticeships can provide pathways into many careers.
- Some public service career pathways can begin while students are still in high school.
October's Career Cafe will spotlight a career speaker working within the Public Service & Safety cluster to give students a more realistic idea of what a job in this sector entails. A Canvas announcement will be shared in the near future with a registration link for interested students to join this lunchtime talk.
Feel free to reach out to the Career Readiness Advisor with any questions: Pauline_Baek@hcpss.org
Martin Luther King Commission Contest
On behalf of the Howard County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, I am excited to share that the 2027 MLK Student Contests are now live.
The MLK Student Contests are one way students can reflect on Dr. King’s legacy while using their own voices, creativity, and lived experiences to express what service, justice, equity, nonviolence, and beloved community mean today. These contests also create an opportunity for students to think critically about Dr. King’s teachings and connect them to the issues, hopes, and responsibilities facing their schools, families, and communities.
October is LGBTQIA+ History Month. Let’s celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of the LGBTQIA+ community! Click here for the LGBTQIA+ History Month Resource
CMS Clubs and Activities:
See our website for a new page that collates information about activities at Clarksville and the emails of club and organization sponsors so that you can get in touch if you have any questions.
It includes a list of currently approved after-school clubs and activities, along with their sponsoring teachers.
Meeting days and locations vary by activity. Sponsoring teachers are currently finalizing their schedules and will share specific signup details and meeting details directly with students via Canvas.
Career Cafe Information!
CMS is excited to continue hosting monthly Career Cafes during grade level lunch shifts to expose our 6th-8th graders to a variety of careers!
We are looking for enthusiastic parents/guardians and community members to share their career experiences. Our students benefit from learning about the responsibilities, rewards/challenges, required skills, and pathways to access your career. Please fill out this volunteer form if you are interested in being a guest career speaker.
Free and Reduced Meals Information:
Many HCPSS families may be eligible to receive benefits through the Free and Reduced Price Meals (FARMs) program
Qualifying families can take advantage of a wide range of additional resources and discounts, including free college applications, free or reduced JumpStart dual enrollment tuition, discounted internet through the Comcast Internet Essentials program, and more.
Families must submit a new application every school year. During the first 30 school days, students with FARMs eligibility from the prior school year will continue to receive benefits. Any student whose family has not filled out an application by the 30th school day will have their status changed to full pay until a new application is received.
Parents/guardians are highly encouraged to fill out the applications as soon as possible. It is very important that applications are filled out accurately and completely.
- Apply online
- Apply by mail: Paper applications will be available at all school front offices. Applications can be returned to the school or mailed to HCPSS Food & Nutrition Services, 10910 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042
Additionally, I want you to know that there are school staff available to support you and your child.We have numerous supports in place, and I encourage you and your child to take advantage of them whenever they are needed.
Here are a number of administrators and support staff available at our school who can provide supports along with your child’s teachers:
Richard Smart, Principal: richard_smart@hcpss.org
Kristy Ritchie, Assistant Principal: Kristy_Ritchie@hcpss.org
Julie Prince, School Counselor: Julie_Prince@hcpss.org
Kat Hajduk, School Counselor: Kat_Hajduk@hcpss.org
Katie Houston, Student Services Secretary: Katie_Houston@hcpss.org
Answers to frequently asked questions on HCPSS meals and additional meals/nutrition assistance programs can be found on the HCPSS Help site. If you have questions regarding the program, please visit www.hcpss.org/FARMs or contact Food and Nutrition Services at 410-313-6743 or foodsvc@hcpss.org.
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please visit the Community News and Programs page on the HCPSS website for announcements of upcoming events and programs sponsored by non-profit organizations.