News

Mission Statement

Our mission is to empower every student through excellence, equity, and meaningful connections by intentionally providing multiple entry points to rigorous core instruction and advanced coursework, ensuring every learner succeeds.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to inspire students to lead, think critically, and thrive in a diverse world. We strive to dynamically reflect our students’ interests and strengths through our community and programs, preparing them to navigate their unique pathways with confidence.

Core Values Slogan: What We Believe

Rooted in Belonging. Growing in Achievement. Thriving Together.

SY 26-27 School Improvement Plan

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Daily Announcements

Please see our daily announcements linked here.

2026 Gold Ribbon School In Service Learning

Damascus has been named a 2026 Gold Ribbon School in Service Learning by Youth Service America (YSA) - one of only 50 schools nationwide and 10 in MCPS to earn this honor! The Gold Ribbon recognizes schools with an outstanding commitment to student service learning and civic engagement, honoring our students for working with local organizations to tackle real world challenges. Way to lead, Damascus! MCPS Press Release 
 

DHS CIP Community Engagement Opportunities

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Community Engagement sessions. Please review the slides and documentation shared during the meeting on the MCPS Project Webpage.

 

PTSA

Joining is quick, easy, and a meaningful way to stay connected. Please take a moment to review this flyer for details on how to sign up. Or go directly to purchase membership here. 

 

Campus Parking/Open Lunch Requirements (11th & 12th Graders)

Participating in Open Lunch and driving to school are upperclassmen privileges reserved for students who maintain strong academic standing and consistent attendance. To keep your parking permit and/or maintain Open Lunch privileges following every marking period check, students must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Academic Eligibility: Maintain a minimum 2.0 unweighted GPA for the marking period with no more than one failing grade (E).
  • Key Period Attendance (Periods 1 & 5): Do not exceed 5 total unexcused absences in Period 1 or Period 5 during the marking period. (Note: 3 tardies equal 1 unexcused absence).
  • Overall Attendance: Avoid chronic absenteeism by keeping total absences—excused or unexcused—below 10% of total school days during the marking period.
  • Campus Safety & Policy Adherence: Full compliance with campus security guidelines, including on-time return from Open Lunch and visible ID scanning upon re-entry.

Please note: Eligibility is reviewed at the close of every marking period. If expectations are not met, privileges will be suspended for the upcoming marking period and will remain suspended until the student meets all requirements in a future marking period. Fees are non-refundable in the event of suspended privileges.

School ID Replacment 

As part of our commitment to school safety and security, all students must have their IDs visible at all times (worn on the front of their person) and show them to gain access to the building.
 
What happens if a student forgets or misplaces their ID?
  • Identity Verification: Students without an ID will have their identity verified in Synergy upon arrival.
  • Temporary Wristband: Once verified, the student will receive a wristband to wear during the day.
  • New ID Issued: A replacement ID will be printed for the student and delivered before the end of the day, at which point the wristband may be removed.
  • Obligation Fee: A $5 obligation will be added to the student's account for the new replacement ID.

DHS Class of 2027 Graduation Date

We are excited to share an important milestone for the Class of 2027! Please mark your calendars for our upcoming commencement ceremony:

  • Date: Wednesday, May 26, 2027
  • Time: 9:00 a.m.
  • Location: UMBC

Further details regarding tickets, arrival times, and senior logistics will be shared as we get closer to the event. We look forward to celebrating the amazing accomplishments of the Class of 2027 with all of you!

DHS Center Programs

For students entering 9th grade during SY 27-28, DHS will have the exciting opportunity to offer the following programs: Music, Environmental Science: Horticulture, and Leadership for Social Justice. For additional information on our programs, please see our website here. Additionally, please contact our Program Lead, James Dow, at James_V_Dow@mcpsmd.org.