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Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

CASTLE CHRONICLES 03.16.26

Posted Date: 03/16/26 (07:51 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

March 16, 2026

DECA STUDENTS COMPETE AT STATE CONFERENCE

Ten DECA SMHS Students who went to Boston to compete.
DECA Students at competition in Boston
Ten DECA members attended the 67th Massachusetts DECA Career Development Conference in Boston from Thursday through Saturday. This was the largest conference in Massachusetts DECA history with over 4,200 attendees. Sandwich students competed in role-plays and quiz bowl, networked with exhibitors from colleges and businesses, and explored the Seaport area.

Congratulations to the ten DECA students who attended the conference. Pictured above left to right: Ethan Fife, Cotter Bolton, Nathan deBlank, Joseph Watters, Ty Creighton, Abigail Cotter, Elyse Giannakoulis, Livvy Frost, Jenna Fay and Brianna Prindle.

Congratulations to senior, Breanna Prindle, who was a finalist in her competitive event category, Food Marketing, and finished top-10 in the state!

Special thanks to Mr. Ben Gavoni for his leadership and guidance as the SMHS DECA advisor.
 

CHOOSE YOUR PATH, FIND YOUR PASSION

speaking at pathways presentation
speaking at pathways presentation
SMHS offers several pathways in mathematics, the humanities, social sciences, fine, media, and performing arts, as well as three DESE-affiliated pathways in biomedical science, computer science, and business. Over the past two weeks, students in grades 7-11 attended grade-level assemblies to learn more about these pathways, related coursework, internship opportunities, and senior capstone experiences.

Students also had the opportunity to participate in small-group peer sessions, where current pathway participants shared their perspectives and answered questions through the lens of their own student experiences.

As we begin the course selection process for the 2026–2027 school year, parents and guardians who would like to learn more about these opportunities or who wish to meet with their student’s counselor to plan next year’s schedule are welcome to contact the counseling department to arrange a meeting.
Please call (508) 888-4900.

For specific information regarding the DESE-affiliated pathways, please contact the following faculty members:

Computer Science:
Rick Gifford – rgifford@sandwich.k12.ma.us
Colleen Davidson – cdavidson@sandwich.k12.ma.us

Biomedical Science:
Laurie St. Pierre – lstpierre@sandwich.k12.ma.us
Zach Boykin – zboykin@sandwich.k12.ma.us

Business:
Ben Gavoni – bgavoni@sandwich.k12.ma.us

Internships:
Ginger Lavelle – glavelle@sandwich.k12.ma.us
business pathway meeting
business pathway meeting
Computer Science Pathway
Computer Science Pathway
 

Leprechaun Trap Fundraiser Struck Gold 🍀

Leprechaun Trap
leprechaun trap
On Thursday afternoon Sandwich Public School students and families gathered in the SMHS cafeteria for a fun Leprechaun Trap Building event sponsored by the Class of 2027.

Using cardboard boxes and craft supplies, participants designed creative traps in hopes of catching a mischievous leprechaun before he could escape with his gold!

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported the Class of 2027!!
Leprechaun trap
 

College Board National Recognition Honors for 10 SMHS Students

award winner
Ten students at Sandwich Middle High School have earned awards through the College Board National Recognition Program, an honor that highlights strong academic achievement and dedication in the classroom.

This program recognizes high-performing students based on their results on AP® Exams and/or PSAT assessments and provides an official academic distinction that students can share on college and scholarship applications. Awards recognize achievement across a variety of communities, including the First-Generation Recognition Award, Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award, and School Recognition Award.

Students recognized (pictured left to right):
  • Samuel McIlvin
  • Sean Naro
  • Olivia Lavery
  • Calvin Barcomb
  • Jack Steele
  • Prisha Bajracharya
  • Lilian Feth
  • Henry Muhlebach
  • Annabelle Marchand
  • Jack Reilly
Congratulations to these talented SMHS students for their outstanding academic achievement!
 

Musicians Selected for the All-Cape Jazz Festival

Trumpet  - Sam McIlvin (Sandwich)
Drums  - Daniel Flynn (Sandwich)
Two, impressive, SMHS band students have been selected to perform with the prestigious All-Cape & Islands Big Band at this year’s Jazz Festival. The event is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, April 29–30, at Nauset High School.

Congratulations to:
Sam McIlvin – Trumpet
Daniel Flynn – Drums

Go Knights!
 

SKI CLUB HITS THE SLOPES AT LOON MOUNTAIN

students skiing at loon
Forty students traveled to Loon Mountain for a beautiful day on the slopes. With clear skies and great conditions, students even had the chance to ski above the clouds!
This year marks the 24th year of the SMHS Ski Club, continuing a long tradition of winter fun and outdoor adventure for students.

A special thank you to our Ski Club Officers for their leadership this season:
Kalin Florence
Tenley Rothera
Addie Anderson
Cora Tedeschi
Izzy Bar
students at loon
students at loon
students at loon
students at loon
 

HONORING COLBY:

Student Design Chosen for Memorial Tournament

contest winner
Congratulations to Sandwich Middle High School junior Dahlia Edwards, whose impressive logo has been selected as the winning t-shirt design for the 3rd Annual Colby Lippincott Memorial Wiffleball Tournament.
Dahlia’s design will appear on the front of this year’s tournament t-shirts. In recognition of her work, she was also awarded an iPad in “Colby Blue” to help continue developing her artistic talents.

The winning design was selected by a student panel made up of some of Colby’s closest friends, who narrowed the submissions down to a final group of four standout designs.
Honorable mention goes to:
  • Soleil Dulmaine (Grade 9)
  • Paisley Lemoi (Grade 9)
  • Terry Gallagher (Grade 7)
Special thanks also go to sophomores Joe Pitta and Sawyer Ralph for helping organize the selection process.
Tournament t-shirts featuring Dahlia’s design will be available for purchase later this spring. The 3rd Annual Colby Lippincott Memorial Wiffleball Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, August 8.

Congratulations to all the student artists who participated.

WINING LOGO
 

TALKING TV — Todo en Español

Spanish 4 honors project
Students in Señor Price’s Spanish IV Honors class took part in a creative speaking assignment designed to build conversational fluency and cultural understanding.

The activity was structured like a television panel discussion, where groups of four students discussed Spanish-language television shows they had watched. Each student came prepared having watched a different series, allowing for a dynamic question and answer conversation entirely in Spanish.

During the 20-minute panel discussions, students asked each other questions, compared storylines and characters, and shared their thoughts about the shows while keeping the conversation flowing naturally in Spanish.
The assignment challenged students to think quickly, listen carefully, and respond conversationally, skills that are essential for real-world language use.
Spanish talk show
spanish talk show
 

Blindfolded but Not Lost: Testing Cognitive Maps

psychology class
Students in AP Psychology recently took their learning out of the textbook and into the hallways as part of a hands-on activity exploring the concepts of latent learning and cognitive maps.

The activity was based on the research of psychologist Edward Tolman, who studied how rats learned to navigate mazes. Tolman’s work showed that learning can occur even when there is no immediate reward, a concept known as latent learning. He also introduced the idea of cognitive maps—mental representations that help individuals understand and navigate their environment.

To experience these ideas firsthand, students worked together to guide blindfolded classmates through a “maze” set up in SMHS hallways. The exercise required communication, observation, and memory as students helped their partners build a mental map of the route.

The engaging activity helped bring an important psychological concept to life while giving students a memorable way to experience how the mind navigates the world around us.
blindfolded experiment for psychology
blindfolded experiment for psychology
blindfolded experiment for psychology
 

SANDWICH SOUL CONCERT / MARCH 27

Sandwich Soul in Concert
March 27, 2026 at 7:00 PM in the auditorium
$15.00 adults
$10.00 students and seniors
Scan QR code for tickets
 

KTC Presents DEAR EVAN HANSEN

flyer for ktc production
The Knights Theatre Company is bringing the award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen to the stage this April 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 by scanning the QR code on the poster!

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

PROJECT 351 Clothing Drive March 30 - April 10

Project 351 Clothing Drive
March 30-April 10
Bins will be available in the lobbies of all 3 schools: Forestdale, Oak Ridge and SMHS.
 

Be Part of a Wildlife Rescue Story

flyer for supply drive
Spring is arriving soon — and with it comes baby wildlife in need of help. This is the busiest season of the year for Cape Wildlife Center, as injured and orphaned animals are brought in daily for care, rehabilitation, and a second chance at life.

You can be part of their rescue story.
The Environmental Club is hosting a Wildlife Supply Drive to support the Center during this critical time. We are collecting many items, including:
  • Cheerios (used for baby animals)
  • Wet dog and cat food
  • Paper towels

Donation boxes will be located outside the main office, and we will be collecting items for two weeks beginning Monday, March 16.

To learn more about this fundraiser or the SMHS Environmental Club, look for our posters around the school or contact Ms. Fudala, or Ms. Ferreira.
 

SEPAC MEETING March 24

flyer for sepac
The Sandwich Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, March 24 at 6:00 PM in the Oak Ridge School Library.

This meeting will include a special education update from Jennifer Healy, Director of Pupil Services, who will share information and answer questions related to district services and supports.

SEPAC meetings are open to all families and community members interested in learning more about special education in Sandwich Public Schools. The group works to support families, provide resources, and strengthen communication between parents and the district.

Light refreshments will be served.
For questions, please contact Mary Kate Lott at sepacsandwich@gmail.com.
 

Cleaning for a Cause

flyer to school donations
The clocks have sprung forward, the snow is finally melting, and that can only mean one thing… SPRING CLEANING SEASON!

Swing by the SMHS lobby during conference times on Wednesday, March 18, and grab a complimentary trash bag to fill with outgrown clothes, shoes, linens, and accessories. Clear out your closets, make some extra space, and feel great knowing your donated items help raise money for our students and teachers.
Fresh season, fresh start — let’s clean for a cause!

Thank you for supporting the SMHS PTSA!
 

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
 

Wrap Yourself in Blue Knight Pride & Support the Class of 2029!

Blanket fundraiser for the Class of 2029. $25.00 each. Scan the QR code for purchase
 

Munch Madness: The Pop-Tart Showdown

much madness
Get ready for Munch Madness! The Sandwich Public Library is hosting a Pop-Tart Showdown where tweens and teens can taste, judge, and crown the ultimate toaster pastry champion.
Students in grades 5–12 are invited to participate in a fun bracket-style challenge featuring a variety of popular Pop-Tart flavors. Participants will sample different flavors and decide which one deserves to advance through the bracket to become the ultimate winner.

📅 Wednesday, March 18
🕡 6:30–7:30 PM
📍 Boardwalk Room (Room 2)
Sandwich Public Library
142 Main St., Sandwich, MA

If you enjoy tasting snacks and judging which one is best, this event is for you! Space is limited, so registration is encouraged.
Note: This event will include tasting several Pop-Tart flavors. Patrons with food allergies should be aware that allergens may be present.
 

PUBLIC SAFETY EXPLORERS PROGRAM

The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office is back with the second session of the Public Safety Explorers Program for April vacation. The April program runs from April 20 to April 24 from 8am-4pm. The deadline is March 30, 2026. If you know someone who may be interested, please spread the word and encourage them to apply!

The program is for ages 10-14 during school vacations. The program teaches students about the field of law enforcement and public safety along with leadership, decision-making, and teamwork skills. They will get tours of police and fire stations, and our emergency communications center. They will also get financial literacy tips from Cape Cod 5.

To apply, please visit bsheriff.net

For questions, please reach out to youthprograms@bsheriff.net
 

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!
 

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

parent teacher conferences flyer
Sandwich Middle High School will hold its second session of Parent-Teacher Conferences on March 18. All conferences are in person.

To schedule a conference, please use the QR code provided. If you have any questions about the sign-up platform, please contact Ms. Colleen Davidson at cdavidson@sandwich.k12.ma.us.

We would love to hear your thoughts on how we can improve your experience signing up for parent-teacher conferences. Please take a moment and complete this FEEDBACK FORM. Thank you!
 

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.
 

SMHS FOOD PANTRY

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.
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.
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