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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MCPS Fall Athletics Safety Plan

  • Student ID Required: High school students must present a valid student ID for entry.
  • School Affiliation: Only students from Damascus High School and the visiting school are permitted to attend. Students visiting from other schools must receive approval from DHS administration, have a DHS parent chaperone sponsor, and current valid school ID.
  • K–8 Chaperone Policy: K–8 students must be accompanied by an adult chaperone at all times (DHS requires a maximum ratio of 1 adult per 5 students).
  • Privilege of Attendance: Attendance at all DHS athletic events is a privilege, not a right, for all spectators. Admission may be revoked at any time.
  • No Bags Allowed: Backpacks and bookbags are prohibited inside the stadium.
  • Prohibited Items: Air horns, noisemakers, fireworks, and firecrackers are strictly forbidden.
  • No Re-Entry: Once a spectator leaves the stadium or facility, re-entry is not permitted under any circumstances.
  • No Entry After Halftime: No spectators will be admitted into the venue after halftime has concluded. Only parents of participating student-athletes may be admitted after halftime.
  • Follow Staff Directions: Failure to comply with staff instructions will result in immediate removal without a refund and may restrict attendance at future events. 
  • MCPS R.A.I.S.E. Standards: All spectators must model respect, integrity, and sportsmanship in accordance with MCPS R.A.I.S.E. expectations.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING HORNET ATHLETICS RESPONSIBLY!

 

DHS CIP Community Engagement Opportunities

We are excited to share that a series of community engagement sessions for the new Damascus High School Capital Improvement Project (CIP) is coming this fall! As planning continues, stakeholder feedback remains vital to our progress. MCPS Central Services invites all staff, families, and community members to join us to review project updates, ask questions, and share input.

Upcoming Community Engagement Meetings

  • Meeting #1: Monday, October 12 | 6:00 p.m. (DHS Cafeteria)
  • Meeting #2: Monday, October 26 | 6:00 p.m. (DHS Cafeteria)
  • Meeting #3: Monday, November 9 | 6:00 p.m. (DHS Cafeteria)

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. 

Parking Information for Juniors and Seniors

Student Parking Applications are still being accepted. Once all tags have been distributed, students will be placed on the waitlist and contacted if a space becomes available.

Homecoming Week

Who's got spirit? Definitely DHS Hornets! Our Homecoming Week will be from October 12 through October 16. Our Homecoming Dance will take place on October 17 at DHS.

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.

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!