Raider Nation Newsletter

Week of September 12, 2022

9/11 -- Never Forget

Dear Atholton Families,

This year marks the 21st anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks against our nation. Our school will observe a moment of silence tomorrow. The following message will be read to students:

Twenty-one years ago, on September 11, we witnessed unthinkable acts of terrorism within the boundaries of the United States. Since that day in 2001, September 11 has been designated as Patriot’s Day and serves as a time to remember those who were lost on that day and to honor those who continue to fight for our freedoms. Please join me in a moment of silence to honor. . .

Those who lost their lives in the plane crash in Pennsylvania, at the Pentagon, and in the World Trade Center;
The heroic firefighters, police officers, and Port Authority officers who lost their lives while saving the lives of others;
The families and friends who lost loved ones;
The courageous spirit of the men and women in our Nation’s Armed Forces stationed around the world;
And finally, the firefighters, police officers, government workers, and military personnel who have dedicated their lives to ensuring our freedom and protecting our democracy.

As we have done on this day since the attacks occurred, let us send a message to the world that we, the people of the United State of America, stand united as a nation celebrating democracy in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

This past week has been a difficult one for the Atholton community. However, what makes this community so great is how well everyone pulls together to support each other, offer assistance, and move forward. I am so honored to be a part of the awesome community!

In light of the events at the football game on September 2, a meeting was held with the HCPSS Director of Security, Emergency Preparedness and Response to discuss changes to make to our security plan to prevent another incident. Here are some of the changes that will take place:

Limiting the number of tickets sold for home games

We are also considering a cut-off time for entrance

Spectators will no longer be allowed to linger in front of the concessions area. This area will be blocked off with controlled entry from both ends
We have asked for increased lighting in the concessions area (in progress)
Installation of more barricades to prevent large crowds from forming (in progress)
Creation of a separate entrance for visitors (in progress)

I am thrilled with the response of HCPSS and its willingness to assist in the implementation of the above protocols. While some of them are in a work in progress, I will keep you informed as they become complete. On a sadder note, please keep the Wilde Lake community in your thoughts and prayers, as they experienced a similar incident at home this past weekend.

Lastly, just as we encourage our students to get involved, I would like to extend that same suggestion to our parents!

The Atholton Athletics Boosters had its first meeting of the 2022-23 school year last week. Please join them to learn about all of the exciting events this fall, as well as ways you can help. Meetings are open to all... Come and be a voice of Atholton Athletics and help us RUNASONE! Go Raiders! For more information on Atholton Athletics Boosters, you can visit: AHS Athletics Boosters
The PTSA will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, September 20, at 7:30 pm in the Media Center. Please mark your calendars and get involved in helping make our school community even better.

Have a terrific week!

Warmest regards,

Robert A. Motley

Principal

Have You Completed...?

Please be sure you complete the following:

Family File -- we need your current emergency contact information. See directions below.
Breakfast / Lunch -- load student account to purchase breakfast and/or lunch.
Join PTSA!! https://atholtonptsa.memberhub.com

Important Information

Free and Reduced Meals Program: Many HCPSS families have been impacted financially by the pandemic and may be eligible now 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 testing fees, tuition, internet and more. Click here to learn more here is the link for HCPSS Connector to apply.

Family File now available for the 2022-23 school year: Parents can now access and complete the Family File for the 2022-23 school year. Parents must complete the Family File annually to ensure HCPSS has the most current information for each child. Once logged in, parents/guardians will be asked to verify or update the following information: Student Information, Parent/Guardian Contact, Emergency Contact, Medical Information, Arrival/Dismissal Procedures (for when in-person classes resume), Photo Approval, Data Confidentiality, PTA/PTSA Directory. Here is the link for HCPSS Connect.

Schedule Changes

Below you will find information about our schedule change process for the upcoming 22/23 school year. Please note that we cannot guarantee we will be able to fulfill schedule change requests after the start of the school year. Summer is the best time to request a schedule change. Please contact your counselor to request a schedule change as soon as possible if you have changed your mind about a course you’ve requested.

Starting on the first day of school, the following timeline will be used to prioritize access to courses for graduation requirements, balanced class sizes, and instructional needs. Schedule Change Process on or after the first day of school:

Phase I – August 29 through September 2 :

• Hole in schedule

• Wrong course was scheduled

• Aiding and release time

Phase II – September 6 through September 16

• All phase I reasons

• Elective changes

• Students may only have one round of electives changes (1 form)

• Level changes

• Aiding and release time

Phase III – September 19 through September 23

• All phase I reasons