Frequently Asked Questions

    Read the following to obtain the answers to some commonly asked questions.

    What are the regular school hours?

    The regular school day runs from 7:45 AM - 2:30 PM.

    When are students dismissed on an early release day?

    Students are dismissed at 12:00 PM.

    What is high school choice?

    High school choice is the process used by Montgomery County Public Schools to assign grade 8 students who reside in the attendance areas for the Northeast Consortium and the Downcounty Consortium to a high school. Northwood is part of the Downcounty Consortium. Read more about the school assignment process.

    What is the Downcounty Consortium (DCC)?

    The Downcounty Consortium is an area that consists of five high schools - Blair, Einstein, Kennedy, Northwood, and Wheaton - and their feeder elementary and middle schools.

    When does the choice process occur?

    The choice process begins as early as September with high school options fairs and open houses. The dates of these events vary by school. Students receive choice forms by mail in October. The choice process consists of two rounds. The first round is open to grade 8 students who live in the DCC area. The second round is open to students who did not receive their first choice in Round 1, new students to the DCC, and students on transfer into a DCC middle school. 

    What are academies?

    The academies are small learning communities designed to enhance the educational experience of each student who attends Northwood High School. Every student will have the opportunity to choose an academy that offers coursework in his/her field of interest. Learn more about the academies.

    Where is Northwood located?

    Northwood is located at 919 University Boulevard West in Silver Spring. Coming from Carter Educational Services Center in Rockville, turn right on Mannakee Street, turn right on Route 355, turn left on Veirs Mill Road, and turn left on University Boulevard. The school is located on the left-hand side.

    What are the requirements for graduation?

    View the MCPS graduation requirements here. 

    Who is my child's counselor?

    Counselors are assigned by last name. Click here to see the counseling assignments.

    Who is my child's grade level administrator?

    Each administrator is responsible for one grade. View the administrative assignments.

    How do I contact my child's teacher?

    You can contact your child's teacher by telephone (please leave a return number, your name, the name of your child, and a brief explanation for your call) or by email. View the staff directory for email addresses and telephone listings. 

    How do I make an appointment with my child's teacher?

    Appointments can be set up directly with the teacher. If you would like to include your child's counselor in the conference, please make sure to contact the counseling office as well. It should be noted that most teachers are in class five periods out of the seven period day and frequently have meetings and/or office hours after school so flexibility is appreciated.

    What does my child need for school in terms of supplies?

    School supplies may vary depending on the class, but all students need pencils, paper, pens (black or blue) and a three-ring binder for storing assignments.