SMOB Elections
Each school year, MCPS holds an election for students to vote for the Student Member of the Board (SMOB). Current Sophomore and Junior students apply to be a candidate. The field is narrowed down to 2 candidates at the Nominating Convention. These 2 candidates are selected from a delegation sent by each high and middle school. At the nominating convention, all of the candidates explain why they should be chosen for the next SMOB. The SMOB nominating convention is Wednesday, February 11 during the school day. The chosen delegates will be excused from classes this day, but are responsible for any work assigned by your teachers. If you are interested in being a member of the delegation from Watkins Mill HS, you need to complete the form below. WMHS has 8 slots for the delegation. If more than 8 students apply, students will be randomly selected to attend. This form will close January 23 at 3 pm. The selection will be during STEP Friday, January 30 at STEP in B116 - all are welcome to view the random drawing See Ms. Squier (B118) if you have any questions. Click here to register
IB and AP Testing Information
IB Exam Requirements and Policies 25-26 IB Letter to test takers and caregivers. While the IB exam is free for all students enrolled in a testing-level IB course, please note the following fee-related policies:
CTE News
Career Quest Week | January 12–16 MoCo CAP, the College and Career Center, Career & Technical Education (CTE), and the Student Advisory Council are excited to host Career Quest Week from January 12–16. Throughout the week, students will have opportunities to explore a variety of career pathways through interactive activity stations located around the building, as well as companies who will share programs related to their industries. Please click for more information and registration.
Caregivers Night - Jan. 13 at 5:00 pm
Caregivers Night - Jan. 13 at 5:00 pm We hope you are enjoying a wonderful holiday season and finding time to relax and connect with family and loved ones. As we welcome the new year, we would love for you to join us for our Caregiver Night on January 13 at 5:00 PM. This special evening will include dinner, helpful resources to help families start the year strong, exciting raffles, and performances by our talented students. It’s a great opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enjoy our school community together. Please use the link below to RSVP for the January 13 event: [LINK]For more details, be sure to review the attached flyers. We look forward to celebrating with you!
MDOT and the Ride on Bus
Fare payment remains mandatory on Metrobus. Students can continue to ride Metrobus fare-free within Montgomery County, but only with a valid Youth Cruiser SmarTrip card. Effective February 1, 2026, student IDs and flashing cards at the operator will NOT be accepted on Metrobuses — no exceptions. Students must tap the farebox when boarding. Youth Cruiser SmarTrip cards are available at many elementary, middle and high schools, all Montgomery County public libraries, Silver Spring TRiPS Commuter Store, Mobile Commuter Store, and the Montgomery County Division of Treasury in Rockville.
3 STAR SCHOOL RATING!
Dear Watkins Mill Families and Community, We are thrilled to share some incredible news — WMHS has officially gone from a 2-star to a 3-STAR school on the Maryland State Report Card! 🌟🌟🌟 This achievement is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and growth of our entire school community — our students, staff, and you, our families and partners. Your support, encouragement, and commitment to your students’ success have made all the difference. We are seeing real progress — in academics, attendance, and graduation rates — and we know that this is just the beginning. Watkins Mill is the sleeping giant that has awakened. Together, we are rewriting our story, changing the narrative, and building greatness. Thank you for continuing to support your students by encouraging them to arrive on time, stay engaged, and give their best every day. Together, we’re showing the entire county what it means to be part of The Mill. Vilma Najera Principal, Watkins Mill High School
Family Food Market January 17
We’re excited to announce that our next Food Market will be held on Saturday, Jan.17, 2026, at 8:00 AM! This year, we’re shifting from a drive-thru model to an in-person market. Please park and line up by the auditorium, and don’t forget to bring your own grocery bag. We’ll have free fresh produce available for our community — all are welcome, and items will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. We look forward to seeing you there! Please see the list of all cluster locations and dates!
Updated Grading Policy
As shared earlier, there is a new grading calculation for the 2025–2026 school year. The final semester grade will now be the average of the two marking period grades. Please see examples of how grades work by clicking here:
Graduation! Save the Date!
We have our graduation date. I am excited to share the date of the Class of 2026 graduation ceremony for Watkins Mill High School: June 10, 2026, 6pm. At the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus. More information to come!!
Student Parking Permit Now Available
Student parking permits are now available for $78 in the Financial Office. The deadline to purchase a permit is September 8, after which unauthorized vehicles may be ticketed or towed. How to Pay: Online In the Financial Office (cash or check) Eligibility: No outstanding school obligations. Good attendance and eligible.
Bus Routes 2025-2026
Please check here for your bus route
SchoolCash Online (SCO)
Montgomery County Public Schools has transitioned to a new online payment system called SchoolCash Online as its preferred method of payment for school-related fees such as fundraisers, field trips, obligations, etc. Click on the link for more information, as well as parent instructions in English and Spanish
