Thursday, October 12, 2023

Previous editions of the BCPS Staff Bulletin are archived and available for viewing on the BCPS website.

Baltimore Sun names BCPS Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers among 25 metro area “Women to Watch”

Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) has been named one of 25 “Women to Watch” for 2023 in the Baltimore metropolitan area by The Baltimore Sun. Each honoree will be profiled in a special Baltimore Sun supplement to be published Sunday, Oct. 15.

“I am honored and humbled by this recognition,” Dr. Rogers said. “I believe it is as much a reflection of all the work that our outstanding and talented staff and students do in Baltimore County Public Schools. It’s that commitment to continuous improvement, strategic collaboration and coordination that will help BCPS become one of the state’s and nation’s premier public school systems. Thank you to The Baltimore Sun for recognizing not only our school system’s leadership, but also the boundless potential of our more than 111,000 students and 20,000 staff who are at the center of all that we do.”

More information is available in a BCPS news release.

FEATURED VIDEO:

Budget 101

BCPS is pleased to announce the launch of a new “Budget 101” website. The website provides an overview of the BCPS operating budget—where our funding comes from, how it is spent, and how we ensure we are meeting the needs of every BCPS student.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE...

• Maryland Retired School Personnel Grant Opportunity

The Maryland Retired School Personnel Association (MRSPA), through its MRSPA Foundation, is offering six grants to classroom teachers across Maryland. The grants may be used on special projects or activities that are not funded through the school system or Parent Teacher Organization.

Grant applications need to be completed and returned to MRSPA by November 1, 2023. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post

• Interpreting services for elementary school conference day

Interpreting services will be provided during the elementary school conference days on Monday, November 20, 2023 (Pre-K) and Tuesday, November 21, 2023 (K – 5).

For schools that need interpreting services for more than a half day (14+ conferences at 15 minutes per conference), your school has the option of using the Language Line for your conferences or requesting a BCPS interpreter to provide services in-person. If you would like to request a BCPS interpreter, please enter a request in Fluency. Fluency requests for conference days should be entered as soon as possible. This year, the deadline for entering these requests into Fluency is Friday, Oct 20, 2023.

More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post

• Here For It Attendance Campaign Tip of the Week

Learning is most meaningful when it is active, social, and allows students to apply concepts to real-life situations. Showing up to school regularly helps students engage in learning, building proficiency in reading and math, and guiding them to graduation.

Daily attendance in school creates an environment conducive to learning and offers students the opportunity to build proficiency through consistent exposure. Parents can support their child’s daily on-time attendance by establishing a nightly routine, encouraging healthy habits, and setting a good example by fostering a positive attitude toward school. Showing interest in their academic progress, attending parent-teacher conferences, and celebrating their achievements, both big and small, can all contribute to that healthy environment where daily attendance matters.

• Teacher as Artist Exhibition at Greenwood

The Teacher as Artist Exhibition is recognizing Baltimore County Public Schools’ art teachers for their work outside the classroom as professional artists. The entire exhibit is available virtually and features 22 selected artworks showcased in the Superintendent’s Gallery at Greenwood, Administration Building A, 6901 Charles Street, Towson, Maryland, 21204.

Artworks will be on display through Friday, November 3, 2023.

• New savings marketplace for employees

The Employee Wellness Program is pleased to announce a new savings platform for all staff members. Working Advantage is your one-stop shop for exclusive deals and convenient savings on popular brands. Enrollment is free and easy. Visit this link and begin saving on electronics, appliances, theme parks, hotels, movie tickets, gift cards, apparel, cars, groceries, and much more! More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post

• Use of school facilities guidelines

When multiple use of facilities applications are submitted, resulting in a scheduling conflict, the applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria and priority:

1) BCPS programs or activities.

2) BCPS parent-teacher association (PTA) and parent-teacher (student) associations (PT(S)A) business meetings, parent-teacher organizational education programs and other PTA, PT(S)A, or PTO-sponsored activities or events.

3) Activities or events sponsored by the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) and its affiliated community recreation councils consistent with the terms incorporated in the Joint Use Agreement.

4) Continuing education programs sponsored by the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) and the sites identified in the Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) between CCBC and BCPS.

5) Board-approved childcare programs.

6) Activities or events sponsored by federal, state, and local governmental entities.

7) Activities or events sponsored by other community groups.

Further guidelines can be found in Superintendent's Rule 1300. Questions? Contact Liz Becker(443-809-0430), Director, Office of Facilities Operations and Logistics.

• Become a Paraeducator - Pathway for Additional Adult Assistants

The Office of Workforce Development is pleased to offer a career pathway to additional adult assistants working within special wducation who are interested in becoming paraeducators. Participants will be compensated for their attendance at all training sessions, will receive ParaPro practice materials, and will have their ParaPro assessment fees paid.

Please note that capacity for the Fall session is limited to 25 participants. This program will be repeated in Spring 2024. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Assessment Skills Center for Assistant Principals and Principals

Information about the 2023-2024 Assessment Skills Center for Assistant Principals and Principals has posted in Frontline. Click on the link for dates and details about the interview.

Please let us know if you have any questions. Sincerely, Chenee Dwarte, Heather Lageman, and Niamh McQuillan, Office of Leadership Development.

• BCPS Retiree Self-Service Portal

BCPS is pleased to launch the self-service Retiree Portal! The Retiree Portal makes it convenient for you to:

1) View BCPS benefits and rates;

2) View and verify demographic information; and

3) Submit a ticket for corrections.

Information will be displayed in real-time and allows for our retirees to clearly see their information in a secured manner. Information for retirees to access the portal was resent via email to all retirees at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4, 2023. Directions to activate your account are included in the email. If you are a BCPS retiree and did not receive an email, please contact BCPS Customer Service Center at 443-809-1000 or email [email protected].

BCPS is pleased to launch this new effort to support our retirees and would like to receive feedback regarding your experience with the new portal. Retirees are encouraged to submit their feedback directly to the CSC.

• Maryland Cultural Proficiency Conference

The Maryland Cultural Proficiency Conference will take place on October 17-18 at Morgan State University. For those who plan to attend, please see the instructions below:

For School Equity Liaisons: The Department of Equity and Cultural Proficiency will sponsor the registration of one equity liaison per school. The equity liaison must have (1) been identified as the equity liaison or co-equity liaison by their principal in the Staff Access Management app, and (2) must have the consent of their principal to attend the conference. If both of those qualifications are met, then the Equity Liaison can use this form to register.

For all other attendees: Please use this link to register.

Questions? Contact Ericka Alexander, program assistant

• Exchangeree shopping dates - October



The Education Foundation of BCPS, Inc., will host shopping days in October at the Exchangeree: Gizmos and Gadgets Galore centers in Rosedale/Golden Ring and Windsor Mill. Shopping, from 3-6 p.m. on the days listed below, will be open to all full-time BCPS educators and support staff (school counselors, social workers, school psychologists, and pupil personnel workers).

Rosedale/Golden Ring

• Tuesday, October 17

Windsor Mill

• Thursday, October 26

Learn more in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Upcoming Parent University events

This year, BCPS Parent University is presenting a variety of virtual programs. More information is available on the Parent University schedule.

Upcoming programming includes:

• "The Power of Play: Fun Activities for Parents and Children"

Friday, October 20, at 12:30 p.m.

• "Can you say 'Mama'?": How Young Children Develop Language"

Friday, November 17, at 12:30 p.m.

FY2025 Operating Budget forums begin - Last call for budget survey closing Oct. 13

Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) will host five “Community Conversations” regarding the development of the BCPS Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget.

Tonight, the first event will take place in the Sparrows Point High School cafeteria from 6 - 7 p.m. Next Tuesday, October 17, the series will continue in the cafeteria at Pikesville High School. The Pikesville forum will take place from 6 - 7 p.m. and will be livestreamed. More information is available in a BCPS community message.

In addition to the budget forums, Team BCPS staff, parents, students, and community members are encouraged to complete the FY 25 Budget Priorities Stakeholder Survey. The survey is available in multiple languages and will close on Friday, October 13.

Staff and Community Resources for Conversations About Global Crisis

Team BCPS’ heartfelt thoughts are with students, families, and staff members impacted by the violent and tragic events in Israel and Gaza. The impact of violent and traumatic events can be confusing, overwhelming, and frightening, resulting in feelings of fear or worry.

Our full community message, which includes links to a variety of resources, is available online.

School Bus Safety Week and BCPS Transportation Appreciation Day - Oct. 18

Each year in the third week of October, we recognize National School Bus Safety Week, and on the Wednesday of that week, we celebrate BCPS Transportation Appreciation Day!

On Wednesday, October 18, please join us in celebrating and thanking our hardworking transportation team members who safely transport tens of thousands of students to and from school every day.

2024 Open Enrollment starts Monday, October 16

Open enrollment is the annual period in which eligible employees can make changes to their current medical, dental, vision, and flexible spending account (FSA) elections.

This year, open enrollment will be open from 9 a.m. on Monday, October 16, through 4 p.m. on Friday, November 10. All elections made during open enrollment will be effective January 1, 2024.

More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

High school students and families invited to BCPS HBCU College Fair on

Sat. Oct. 14

Seniors are encouraged to attend on October 14 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at New Town High School. Other high school students and families are also welcome. At the fair, students can meet college admissions representatives from HBCUs and participate in workshops related to the college selection process, college admissions, financial aid, and college life.

Registration through StriveScan is open to all BCPS high school students and their families. Participants are also strongly encouraged to complete the Common Black College Application prior to the event. Those who register who need assistance in traveling to the event are asked to complete a transportation request survey.

Transportation is available to and from the event. More information is available in a BCPS news release.

America's Safe Schools Week - Oct. 15 - 21

BCPS is committed to providing safe and supportive learning environments for all students. The district continues to take proactive measures that help build positive school climates and ensure student and staff safety. This critical work requires collaboration across the system and partnership with all Team BCPS students, parents/guardians and staff.

Color for Character Week Oct 16. - 20 and Out of the Darkness Walk Oct. 28

Bullying Prevention Week is Monday, October 16, 2023, through Friday, October 20, 2023. During that week, we are encouraging students and staff to participate and wear a designated color for each day of the week. The color represents character traits that all people can demonstrate. Please share photos on social media using #BCPSCares. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

Additionally, we are partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and participating in the Out of the Darkness Walk. Baltimore Walk (Inner Harbor - 401 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202) on Saturday, October 28, 2023. We encourage BCPS staff, students, and community members to participate. You can create your own team or are welcome to join Team BCPS. The start time of the walk is 9:30 a.m.

Thank you for celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with us!

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we'd like to say thank you for recognizing the contributions, culture, and history of Hispanic/Latino communities!

This week on X (formerly Twitter), we have seen amazing activities and displays at Logan Elementary, Woodlawn High, Perry Hall High, and beyond!

How is your school/office recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month? Please send details to [email protected].

Things to Know About the October 10 Board of Education Meeting

1) Superintendent Rogers shared highlights of the system’s work to improve academic achievement for all students, announced the launch of the Budget 101 website, and highlighted recent BCPS achievements and celebrations.

2) In response to the motion made at the Sept. 26 meeting, staff presented alternate proposed 2024-2025 school calendars to minimize the number of half days. The Board will vote on a final calendar Nov. 7.

3) The Board received a report on upgrades to the boundary study process in BCPS, including enhanced engagement with the community.

4) The Board approved a special project request for Maiden Choice School. The addition of a kitchen and laundry area in the newly developed Vocational Center will provide additional opportunities for functional learning activities.

5) The Board received a report on Blueprint Pillar One: Early Childhood Education.

TEAM BCPS SHOUTOUT



Danielle Weyant, Staff Development / Math Resource Teacher, and Julie Brethauer, Reading Specialist / Student Support Team / Technology Liaison, Hebbville Elementary School

Submitted by Anna Ringley, Grade 4 Teacher, Hebbville Elementary School

"Ms. Weyant has been working double time to fill the role of staff development teacher and math resource teacher this year. She is always available for teachers when they need support in any way and will always find a solution. She is helpful in locating materials, pulling resources, unit planning, pacing, and so much more. She has a 'no-judgment' personality that makes her so approachable to make sure we are doing what is best for our students. Without Ms. Weyant, Hebbville would not run as smoothly as it does!

Ms. Brethauer is an incredible person to have on our resource team. She is so knowledgeable about everything reading-related and has so many resources for teachers to use. She is willing to work with students whenever she has time in her busy schedule and will always meet to discuss ways to make our reading instruction or overall classroom environment better. She is excellent at analyzing data and thinking of next steps. Even when she has things going on in her personal life, she is always there for the staff and students at Hebbville."

You may submit a shoutout for a variety of reasons. For example, you may want to offer a pat on the back to a colleague for helping out, recognize a staff member or student achievement, or welcome a new employee. When your shoutout appears in The Staff Bulletin, your name and school/location will be included.

UPCOMING RECOGNITIONS

Hispanic Heritage Month - through Sunday, October 15

National Principals Month - October

National Bullying Prevention Month - October

Learning Disabilities Awareness Month - October

National School Lunch Week - through Friday, October 13

America's Safe Schools Week - Sunday, October 15 - Saturday, October 21

National School Bus Safety Week - Monday, October 16 - Friday, October 20

Color for Character Week - Monday, October 16 - Friday, October 20

BCPS Transportation Appreciation Day - Wednesday, October 18

BALTIMORE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Engage. Empower. Excel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dept. of Communications/Community Outreach

443.809.5908 | [email protected]