Welcome

Greetings, Laurel High School family, 

On behalf of the Laurel High School administrative team, staff, and all of our stakeholders,  welcome to the 2025/2026 school year. I hope you had an amazing, restful, and enjoyable summer break.  We have a lot of work to do, but we are all ready for the challenge.  Let’s first reflect on some key points from last year.

Let’s Start with the Class of 2025

Although the final numbers aren't in yet, it’s clear that we’re continuing our upward climb when it comes to graduation rates — and the Class of 2025 is leading the way.  You’ve shown that you understand the importance of keeping “the main thing the main thing” — and for seniors, that means one goal: crossing that stage.  You stayed focused, committed, and determined.

Classes of 2026 to 2029 — take note.
This is what leadership looks like. This is what it means to finish strong.

To the class of 2026 —I’ve Told You All Year — You’re Exceptional!

All year long, I’ve reminded you just how outstanding you are. Time and time again, you've led the way in attendance, academic achievement, and behavior, setting the standard for the entire school. That’s why I’m confidently looking to the Class of 2026 to be the best class to come through Laurel High School during my time as Principal.

You’ve proven what you’re capable of — and I believe in you. You can do it!

To the Class of 2027 — We See You Coming!

As juniors, you're stepping into one of the most important phases of your high school journey. This year is all about focus, responsibility, and preparation. Now is the time to make sure you're checking all the necessary boxes that lead to graduation.  If college is on your path, this is also when you should begin seriously considering your options. Keep in mind: colleges are watching. Your academic performance this year plays a big role in how you're seen by admissions officers.

So, take a breath — and ask yourself: Are you ready for this?
Because your future starts now.

Hey Class of 2028 — The Training Wheels Are Off!

You’re no longer the new kids on the block. You're not new to high school anymore. You know the rules, the expectations, and how we do things at Laurel High School.  Now, it's time to level up.  I expect you to thrive — and to perform even better than you did last year. And yes, I’m talking to all of you — those who excelled and those who struggled. No matter where you stand, there's always room for growth and improvement. Are you with me?

To the Incoming Freshman — Class of 2029, Welcome!

We are thrilled to welcome you to the Laurel High School family! From day one, you’ll see that we’re here to support you, celebrate your successes, and, when needed, help guide you back on track. You're never alone on this journey.

You’re about to begin an incredible four-year experience — one that will be both fun and rewarding. As a member of our 9th Grade Academy, you’ll be surrounded by exceptional educators dedicated to helping you succeed every step of the way.

All we ask from you is this:
Be respectful.
Be attentive.
Be on time.
Be positive about the journey ahead.

We’ll take it from there.

Welcome to Laurel High — let’s make these next four years great!

To ensure a safe environment and a positive and productive learning experience, all students are required to follow these expectations:

1) Attend school every day, be on time to all classes, be where you belong at all times, ready to work hard and learn.  (Note:  your school day is from 8:30 AM - 3:10 PM; you will not be allowed to enter the building before 8 AM; see school hours on the school website.)

2) Follow Prince George’s County Public Schools Guidelines (Ex, have a clear book bag, use your school-issued locker daily, etc.)

3) Follow the LHS Uniform Policy (which is linked to this letter and also on the school’s website).  Remember, we are a uniform school; NO HOODIES!  {OUR UNIFORM POLICY WILL BE STRONGLY ENFORCED FOR THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR}

4) Wear your school ID around your neck at all times!!! Your school ID is a part of your school uniform.  ID picture dates are forthcoming, as well as the issuance of Chromebooks for 9th graders and students new to the county.

TECHNOLOGY- Students will use their Chromebooks daily in all classes. Please remind your child to bring their fully charged Chromebook each day.

BUS SCHEDULES – Information forthcoming

END OF SCHOOL DAY - Students are not allowed to remain at school after 3:10 PM without their adult tutor/club/team sponsor. Any student without an adult sponsor must leave the building promptly at 3:10 PM.

Parents, please support and guide your child’s learning by ensuring that he/she:

1. Attends school daily and arrives on time, by 8:15 AM, ready for the day's learning
2. Completes all assignments given by teachers
3. Share school experiences with you so that you are aware of his/her schoolwide endeavors
4. Informs you if he/she need additional support in any area or subject
5. Know that you support him/her in their efforts to graduate from High School as well as their future endeavors, be it college, military, or the workforce.

Additionally:   

1. Ensure that your student can access their PGCPS email (Required for Canvas). 
2. Parents, please verify your contact information via the Synergy portal.
3. Access your child’s schedule in the Synergy Portal and cross-check for accuracy. 
4. Complete the required 24 Service-Learning hours (Note: WE WILL ACCOMPLISH THIS EARLY; THIS IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT)

Here are some important dates:

1. August 25th - Student Orientation (Specific information is forthcoming- This is for all 9th  graders, as well as all students new to Laurel High School.)
2. August 26th -  First day of school for ALL students
3. September 1st - Labor Day (School Closed for Staff and Students)
4. September 11th-  Back to School Night from 6-9 PM, Back to School Night will be in person..

Use the links below to access the uniform policy and the supply list:

Uniform Policy  

To the Laurel High School Family,

I’m extremely excited about the upcoming school year! We’re kicking things off with a “Back to School Fair” on August 19th — more details will follow in a separate email. But here’s a little teaser: NBC News will be on campus that day to help pump up the energy and highlight the amazing things happening at Laurel High School! From this very first event, you'll see just how committed our educators are to the success of every student. All we ask in return is that our students commit to being exceptionally focused, ready to learn, grow, and thrive.  Once again this year, we had a large number of students attend summer school, and once again, those students did very well. That said, I’ll continue to remind everyone: summer should be for relaxation, travel, and fun with family. My hope and expectation is that our students handle their academic responsibilities from August through June, so that summer can truly be yours, free from school obligations. Can we all commit to making that happen for the 2025–26 school year?
I believe we can. In the meantime, please use the next couple of weeks to continue enjoying your summer while preparing for a great school year ahead.

See you soon — and stay safe!   

Michael Dinkins 

 Michael Dinkins

 Principal

 Laurel HS