Skip to main content

Sandwich Public Schools

A legacy of purpose and possibility

CASTLE CHRONICLES 11.10.25

Posted Date: 11/10/25 (07:26 AM)


CASTLE CHRONICLES

November 10, 2025
Post saying:
Honoring All who served
Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
In honor of VETERANS DAY, we extend our sincere gratitude to all who have served and sacrificed for our country. Your courage and commitment are deeply appreciated.
School will be closed on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 in observance of the holiday.
 

SMHS Annual Showcase – NOVEMBER 13 / 5-7

SMHS SHOWCASE EVENT:
NOVEMBER 13 FROM 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
SEE, EXPLORE AND DISCOVER ALL THAT SMHS HAS TO OFFER
OPEN TO CURRENT AND PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
QUESTIONS? CALL (508) 888-4900
Join us on November 13, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM for an inspirational evening at Sandwich Middle-High School! This event is open to current and prospective students and their families.

Step inside to explore cutting-edge programs like Biomedical Studies, Forensics, AI, and Cybersecurity. Tour our modern video broadcasting studio, woodshop, graphic design labs, and newly furnished student workspace, where students collaborate with peers and industry professionals.

Meet student representatives from athletics, fine, media and performing arts, and extracurricular clubs. Hear firsthand how SMHS helps every student discover their passions, develop their talents, and prepare for success in today’s world.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Questions? Please call (508) 888-4900.
 

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTS NEW MEMBERS

new nhs members inducted
Eight outstanding Sandwich Middle High School students were officially inducted into the Glass Chapter of the National Honor Society on Thursday evening.

These students have demonstrated excellence in scholarship, leadership, character, and service: the core pillars of NHS.

Congratulations to the following students:
Madeline Brown
Abigail Cotter
Nathan deBlank
Breigh Falwell
Daniel Flynn
Lane Kraihanzel
Thomas MacDonald
Madison Sullivan
 

PSAT SCORES RELEASED ON NOVEMBER 6

PSAT scores were released on November 6. Students can view their results by logging into their College Board account. If your student has any difficulty accessing their scores or has questions about next steps, please encourage them to reach out to their school counselor for assistance.
 

DECA ON BEACON HILL

Sandwich Middle High School DECA students recently participated in DECA’s Civic Action Day at the Massachusetts State House. Students toured the historic building, met with state representatives, and learned about the pending STUDY Act.

The experience offered an opportunity for students to explore how government and business intersect while developing their leadership, communication, and advocacy skills. The group represented SMHS with professionalism and pride throughout the day.
Sandwich Middle High School DECA students stand behind the speaker’s podium inside the Massachusetts House of Representatives chamber. The group poses in front of blue curtains and a historic mural, highlighting their visit during DECA’s Civic Action Day at the State House.
A large group of DECA students from across Massachusetts pose on the grand staircase inside the Massachusetts State House. Students in the front row hold a blue banner that reads “DECA Massachusetts,” while teachers and advisors stand alongside them. The ornate marble staircase and chandelier create a formal backdrop.
A group of Sandwich Middle High School DECA students stand together in the school lobby beneath a banner that reads “Proud to be a PLTW School.” They are dressed in professional attire, with one student holding a certificate, representing their participation in DECA’s Civic Action Day.
 

GRADE 7 ON THE DANCE FLOOR!

Grade 7 class photo at the dance
Group of grade 7 students at the dance
Group of grade 7 students at the dance
Grade 7 students at the dance
Grade 7 students at the dance
 

BLUE KNIGHTS FLEX KNOWLEDGE

Students in Mrs. St. Pierre's Human Body Systems class took part in a Range of Motion Lab this week, using goniometers to measure and compare joint mobility while investigating how the structure of different joints influences flexibility and movement.

The class, which is part of our new Biomedical Pathway in the Science Department, gives students hands-on experience connecting anatomy, physiology, and real-world applications.

We were also joined by Assistant Superintendent David Quinn, who stopped by to take part in the lab and see our future biomedical scientists in action!
Four students discussing results and demonstrating arm positioning in front of a whiteboard with exercise notes.
Two students smiling as they work together to measure elbow flexibility using a goniometer near a fall-themed display.
Assistant Superintendent David Quinn interacts with students as they measure arm angles using goniometers in the fitness room.
two students measuring arm length
 

DIVISION I & DIVISION II SIGNING DAY

SMHS Signing Day Schedule for the 2025-2026 school year, the following date is in effect:
  • Fall Signing Day: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 1:15
  • Who is invited: All student-athletes who have a commitment to a Division I or Division II institution will be invited to participate. We also encourage you to have family, teammates, and coaches present.  
  • We will have a Spring signing day for Division III student-athletes.
  • Where: SMHS main lobby
  • Sports included: This signing day will be for all sports except football.
  • Please email Athletic Director Sean Donovan (sdonovan@sandwich.k12.ma.us) with any questions or special requests that you may have.
 

POTTERY & SCULPTURE: CREATIVITY WITH CLAY

more ceramic art works from students
Display case featuring ceramic works by SMHS students, including colorful sea animal sculptures, mugs, and textured clay pieces. Small labels identify each student artist.
ceramic art works on display
Students in Mr. Rigazio’s Intro to Pottery classes are bringing their sculptural and decorative visions to life! From hand-built animal sculptures to mugs, bowls, and beautifully textured surface treatments, each piece reflects patience, craftsmanship, individuality, and creative expression.  

After weeks of sculpting, glazing, and firing, their finished works are now on exhibit in the display cases outside the SMHS auditorium. Be sure to stop by and check out the extraordinary craftsmanship!  
A student in a blue sweatshirt works carefully at a table, shaping a clay mug by hand with sculpting tools and slip.
A student sits at a pottery wheel, using both hands to center clay on the spinning surface while focusing on forming the shape.
Two students seated at a table, painting their pottery with glaze. One works on a yellow piece, and the other paints a light blue one. Shelves of student artwork are visible behind them.
Mr. Rigazio dipping project with student
student uses a small knife to cut into a flat sheet of clay on a table, preparing pieces for a hand-built pottery project.
A student in a black shirt sits at a table sculpting a small clay figure with fine tools and attention to detail.
 

NEUROSCIENCE in ACTION: SHEEP BRAIN DISSECTION

Mr. Watson's 8th-grade MEDICAL DETECTIVES class wrapped up the nervous system unit with a truly memorable, hands-on experience: a sheep brain dissection!

Students were challenged to locate and identify 22 major brain regions and learn their functions. Everyone quickly dove into this unique opportunity to connect their classroom learning to an awesome, real-life example.
Students smiling during dissection of sheep brain
3 students doing dissection
3 students look at sheep brain for dissection
student working on dissection
 

ANCIENT INSPIRATION, MODERN PERSPECTIVE

Students from Modern World History, AP World History, AP Latin, and AP Spanish classes visited the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston for an immersive experience connecting art, culture, and history.
Throughout the day, students explored artifacts from around the world—examining how art reflects the exchange of ideas, technology, and traditions across civilizations. It was a fun-filled, informative day!
Eight students sit side by side in a blue painted canoe cutout, smiling against a mural of trees and a cloudy sky.
Four students stand with arms raised toward a golden religious altarpiece featuring painted saints.
students infront on gold statue.
 

THE POWER OF PUPS

students sit in a circle on the classroom floor smiling and petting several dogs during an AP Psychology activity.
students sit in a circle on the classroom floor smiling and petting several dogs during an AP Psychology activity.
AP Psychology students experienced firsthand how spending time with animals can boost mood and support emotional regulation. The lesson connected their research on conditioning, emotion regulation, and neurotransmitters such as oxytocin and dopamine.
Students learned how interactions with animals can positively influence focus, stress levels, and overall well-being. They were joined by our very own SMHS support dog, Lance, along with an adorable future support puppy. Needless to say, there were smiles all around! 🐾💙
 

BLUE KNIGHTS SERVE THE COMMUNITY

What a fantastic turnout for our Middle School Volleyball Showdown! The Middle School Instructional Volleyball Team faced off against members of the staff in a fun and friendly match. All proceeds went to support the Sandwich Food Pantry.
With Varsity and JV players stepping in as coaches and referees, plus a bake sale and raffle, the event was a true community effort.
Thank you to everyone who donated canned goods and contributions to help local families in need!
food donations from volleyball event
volleyball players
Crowd at the event
staff wearing a 6-7 shirt
Volleyball players serving
volleyball team on the sideline
 

SMHS CHOIR HITS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES

All 32 members of our Advanced Choir are preparing to audition for not one—but two major music festivals this month.

🎵 All-Cape Music Festival Auditions – Wednesday, November 12
High school musicians from across Cape Cod and the Islands will audition for spots in the prestigious All-Cape Band, Orchestra, Mixed Choir, and Treble Choir. The festival takes place in early February, with results announced Monday, November 17.

🎶 Southeast Massachusetts Music Festival Auditions – Saturday, November 22
Twenty of our Advanced Choir students will also audition for this highly competitive regional festival, which features top high school musicians from across southern Massachusetts. Results will be shared Monday, November 24, and the festival takes place in January.

From there, qualifying students can move on to the Massachusetts All-State Music Festival in March—held at the iconic Boston Symphony Hall!

Last year, four members of our Advanced Choir earned All-State honors, and we couldn’t be prouder of their continued dedication and talent.
GO KNIGHTS!
A group of students stands in a line on stage under blue lighting, singing together during class rehearsal.
More students stands in a line on stage under blue lighting, singing together during class rehearsal.
A group of students stands in a line on stage under blue lighting, singing together during class rehearsal.
Wide shot of the entire class spread across the auditorium stage as they rehearse; empty audience seats are visible in the foreground.
Mrs. Lassit stands facing the stage from the audience area, conducting her students during rehearsal while wearing a “Sandwich Soul” sweatshirt.
 

REVOLUTIONARY LEARNING IN ACTION

In Mr. Welch’s U.S. History class, students are diving deep into the American Revolution (1775–1783) through a Slide Deck Mini-Project. Working in pairs, students selected key topics such as the Declaration of Independence, Valley Forge, or The Battle of Saratoga, and even explored the contributions of lesser-known “Forgotten Founders.”

Each team posed a historical question, conducted research using class resources, and created slides to teach their classmates about their chosen topic. The project challenges students to think critically, collaborate, and make connections to how the Revolution shaped the nation we know today.

4 students working together on Revolution
A group of students working together in Mr. Welch's class
students working together on Revolution
 

Calling All Community Members: Help Judge the Next Big Idea!

SMHS's DISTRIBUTIVE EDUCATION CLUBS OF AMERICA (DECA) is hosting a Mock Role-play Event on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 5:00 PM -7:00 PM in the SMHS LIBRARY.
This experience will give our 50+ students much needed practice and feedback prior to the DECA district conference in January.
We are seeking community members to serve as judges. No experience is required, although having a business background is a bonus. If you are interested in serving as a judge, please fill out this FORM.
Thank you!
Sandwich DECA looking for judges for a mock role-play night
DECA JUDGES FORM
 

MONEY MATTERS: WEBINAR ON SAVING & INVESTING

Cape Cod 5 webinar on financial wellness
Students, families, and staff are invited to join Cape Cod 5’s Jim Curran, Director of Financial Know-How, for a free Saving & Investing 101 Webinar on Wednesday, November 12, from 4:00–4:30 p.m.
This 30-minute presentation, followed by a Q&A session, will introduce simple and approachable steps to build healthy saving and investing habits — and improve your overall financial wellness.
Topics include:
  • The psychology and mindset behind saving
  • The importance of balancing liquidity and investments
  • Understanding saving and investing terminology
  • Actionable steps to start your financial journey
📍 Hosted on Zoom

 

✨ Meet the Class of 2026: Weekly Feature by Lillian Barbosa✨

KHLOE SCHULTZ

ALL ABOUT KHLOE:
@SMHS- SPORTS: Field Hockey, Hockey CLUBS: Senior project internship AT Modern Vintage, Adaptive Dance, SMHS Peer Leader, Eye to Eye Mentor, Sandwich Blue KNIGHT Closet Club

AcCOmplishments: 
South Shore League MVP: 2023, 2024 
South Shore League & CAPE & ISLANDS:
All-Star 2022, 2024
 
What senior event are you most excited for? BOSTON Boat Cruise

Go to song? Dark Paradise Lana del Ray Remix

Dream job? To create a clothing brand

Fun Fact- I HAVE Taken 5 years of Latin. 

What’s your favorite lunch spot on cape?- Estia.

What’s your favorite beach on Cape?-Aquinnah.
 

PETER MILBURN

@SMHS- SPORTS:XC/Track CAPTAIN 
CLUBS: KTC Tech crew, Playbook Initiative, Peer Leaders, NHS/CSNHS/WLNHS Officer, Rho Kappa member, Chicas for Change member,  International Studies PRESIDENT

Accomplishments: South Shore League All-Star for XC/track, New England Emmy winner, National Emmy nominee

Go to song? N95, Kendrick Lamar

Dream Job- Film Director, Journalist

What’s your favorite lunch spot on cape?- JD’s

What’s your favorite beach on Cape?- Town Neck
 

SMHS FOOD PANTRY OPEN EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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.
 

PAID STUDENT INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

SMHS students are invited to apply for a 50-hour virtual internship with the Work-Based Learning Alliance (WBLA), a nonprofit organization that connects high school students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences.

Internships are paid and focus on clean energy and sustainability, helping students gain professional skills, build connections with industry mentors, and explore future career paths.

This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in S.T.E.M. careers, environment, or business innovation.

Application Deadline: November 13, 2025
REGISTRATION INFORMATION BELOW.

QUESTIONS?
Please contact Internship Coordinator, Ms. Ginger Lavelle at glavelle@sandwich.k12.ma.us
internship flyer
Internship flyer 2
Learn More and Register
 

GRADE 8 DANCE: NOVEMBER 14, 2025

Grade 8 Dance on November 14 in the SMHS Cafeteria from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. 
Tickets are $10.00 and will be sold during lunches from 11/10-11/14.
The theme is a Night in Rio. 
The poster has images of colorful feathers and masks and Rio dancers.
GRADE 8 PARENTS/GUARDIANS:

If you'd like to donate snacks for the Grade 8 dance, please sign-up here: https://signup.com/go/tegscJS
 
SMHS students! Earn community service hours by helping LAST BEST CRAFT FAIR vendors move their items both at set-up and break-down.
Earn community service hours 
SMHS student volunteers needed
last best Craft Fair Vendor Move-IN and Out
December 7, Sunday from 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and/or 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 
Sandwich Middle High School
 

SANDWICH PUBLIC SCHOOLS U-KNIGHTED IN SERVICE

Who? Students, staff, and families of Sandwich
What? Rake leaves for elderly members of our community
Where? Town of Sandwich 
When? Saturday, Nov. 22 - Sunday, Nov. 23
Why? To help the seniors in our community & give back to our town
How? Get a group (team) together with an adult team leader.

Sign up using the form. On the service weekend bring your rake, leaf blower, tarps, gloves, water, snacks, etc. to the location to rake with your team to help our community!
U-Knighted Community Raking Event.
Volunteer to rake the yards of elderly members of our school community. 
Choose the day and time that works for you.
November 22 or November 23.
To register, complete this form.
Questions? Please contact Kristen Macdonald at kmacdonald@sandwich.k12.ma.us
 
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