Cougar Spirit Connects the Community

Alisha Yocum

All the schools in the Catoctin High School (CHS) feeder pattern came together for a Community Night on January 28 at CHS. This annual tradition is supported by the Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) of CHS, Emmitsburg Elementary, Sabillasville Environmental School, Thurmont Middle, Thurmont Primary, and Thurmont Elementary.

During the event, families browsed tables and learned about resources and programs available to them. This year’s focus was on an initiative that all schools have been promoting: No Place for Hate. Students were able to sign a cougar paw to show their commitment to being kind to their fellow peers, teachers, staff, and their community.

Wags for Hope was also in attendance, bringing their therapy dogs to provide comfort and joy. Students had the chance to pet and snuggle with these friendly companions, reinforcing the organization’s mission to bring happiness to others.

Families also enjoyed the opportunity to connect over a complimentary dinner.

The evening concluded with attendees carrying their Cougar spirit to the gymnasium, where they cheered on Catoctin’s Girls Basketball team in a hard-fought matchup against rival Smithsburg High School.

Audreya Cutkowsky stands with one of the therapy dogs from Wags of Hope during the Catoctin Community Night.

Students, Sarah Krummitt, Addison Kreitz, and Troy Long, promote the No Place for Hate initiative and assist students with signing a cougar paw as part of their commitment to kindness.

Representatives from Lewistown Elementary promote their student’s commitment to No Place for Hate initiative during the Catoctin Community Night.

Families visit tables set up throughout the Catoctin Community Night to learn about the resources available to them.

Families enjoy a meal together as part of the Catoctin Community Night.

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