Thursday, March 21, 2024

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

Have a superb spring break!

We're almost there! BCPS spring break will begin at the end of the school day on Friday, March 22. Schools will reopen on Tuesday, April 2.

However you decide to spend your hard-earned break, we hope it energizes and rejuvenates you as we prepare for the final stretch of the school year!

Spring break reminders:

Energy conservation checklist

To control energy costs, schools and offices are encouraged to implement energy conservation measures during spring break (Monday, March 25 – Monday, April 1). A shutdown checklist can be found in the Green School Guidebook under the "Energy Conservation and Awareness" section.

Principals are asked to share the suggested energy conservation measures with teachers, operations staff, Recreation and Parks staff, and other building users. Consistent monitoring of the implementation of these measures will help reduce energy waste. Please help all building users understand that energy cost-avoidance translates to funds gained for systemwide improvements and supports BCPS’ sustainability efforts.

Customer Service Center hours

The Customer Service Center (CSC) will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 25-28. You can contact the CSC at 443-809-1000 or by email. Staff will also be available for in-person services, such as dropping off paperwork.

Employees retiring by July 1, 2024, who desire an in-person appointment to review their retirement paperwork can do so during this time. An appointment can be requested through this link: Retirement Appointment Questionnaire. Note that notary services for retirement documents will only be available on Wednesday, March 27.

FEATURED VIDEO:

U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy David M. Turk visits Watershed Public Charter School

Yesterday, Watershed Public Charter School welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy David M. Turk for a tour with Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers and state and county leaders. During his visit, Deputy Secretary Turk shared updates regarding the Renew America’s Schools program. Watershed is one of the round one recipients of the 2022-2023 Renew America’s Schools grant.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE...

• Calling all BCPS administrators and educators to register for Let's Play Ball 2024!

The Education Foundation's third annual Let's Play Ball! event is scheduled for Saturday, June 1, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Registration for BCPS players is now open! Calling all administrators and educators to participate in the fun and friendly softball game.

Administrators, register today to defend your title as winners of the 2022 and 2023 games! Educators, register today to try to break your streak by winning Let’s Play Ball! 2024! More information is available in a BCPS blog post.

• Enrollment Training

In late April, offices will present virtual training for all elementary, middle, and high school and office participants. This training will include information related to current procedures in PreKindergarten enrollment, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) enrollment, homeless enrollment, attendance, shared domicile renewals, and transition-year verification.

• New online Family and Medical Leave online reporting system

Effective Tuesday, April 2, the Office of Employee Benefits, Retirement, and Absence Management will begin utilizing a new online reporting system for requesting leave under the Family Medical Leave Act.

The new online reporting system is called Self-Insured Services Company, Inc. (SISCO). The SISCO online reporting system will allow employees to request Family and Medical Leave by entering their anticipated start date, end date, and return-to-work date, upload multiple documents at one time, and receive real-time notification of their submission request. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Join the Walk Fit 5: Team Walking Challenge

Be a part of the Walk Fit 5: Team Walking Challenge, from April 8 through May 17! During this challenge, participants will work their way along a virtual map around the world by completing their favorite fitness activities. This challenge is designed for all fitness levels. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Ramadan 2024

To support systemwide awareness of those of the Muslim faith who will be observing Ramadan, the Department of Equity and Cultural Proficiency would like to share some helpful resources. The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on the evening of March 10 and lasts 29-30 days based on the lunar (Hijri) calendar. On the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset. During Ramadan, the "iftar" (breaking of the fast) occurs after sunset, so meals are often late, followed by Ramadan prayers. Many families use the night to pray and celebrate with loved ones. For many students, this may cause sleep disruption. We ask that teachers and administrators be conscious, aware, and sensitive to the customs, traditions, and faith of their students who observe Ramadan.

For more information on Ramadan, please refer to the following resources: Understanding Ramadan and Ramadan: 8 Considerations for Your Classroom.

• Organization of Professional Employees (OPE) Voices March newsletter

Check out this month's edition of the OPE Voices newsletter.

• Upcoming solar eclipse and eye protection

On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean and will pass over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

While Maryland will not fall under the direct path of the eclipse, the state will experience a partial solar eclipse beginning at approximately 2:05 p.m. and peaking around 3:20 p.m.

If you are interested in having students observe the partial solar eclipse, a limited number of eye protection glasses, called Eclipse Shades, can be found in the Grade 1 “X Marks the Spot” kits. Prior to using the Eclipse Shades, it is critical that instructions and warnings are read and followed. After use, the Eclipse Shades must be returned to the “X Marks the Spot” kit as they are a crucial piece of equipment for the unit. Eclipse Shades are SAFE FOR DIRECT SOLAR VIEWING.

• Save the date - Equity and Cultural Proficiency Symposium

The Department of Equity & Cultural Proficiency will host its 2024 Spring Symposium on Wednesday, April 17, at the Loyola Graduate Center (2034 Greenspring Dr., Timonium 21093).

Morning Sessions: 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Afternoon Sessions: 12:30-3:30 p.m.

This conference-style event is for designated school and central office equity liaisons to engage in professional learning to understand their roles and responsibilities as collaborative partners and leaders in their workspaces. Registration information will be forthcoming in Schoology.

• School Resource Officer of the Year nominations open through Friday, April 19

In collaboration with the Baltimore County Police Department, BCPS will recognize outstanding school resource officers at each level (elementary, middle, and high) for the 2023-2024 school year. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, April 19. Please email the SRO of the Year Nomination 2023-2024 form to Sergeant Eric Knox, or mail to 9600 Pulaski Park Dr., Suite 118, Baltimore 21220.

Questions? Contact Monica Jones.

Inclement weather survey – Share your thoughts

Maryland public school systems can use virtual learning days after they have used all the inclement weather days built into the school year calendar. The 2024-2025 BCPS school calendar includes three inclement weather days. As we plan for winter weather for next year, we would like to know your preferences. Please complete an online survey by Sunday, April 14. Input gathered will be used to inform our virtual instruction day plan.

Community Conversations set for April 3 and 10

Team BCPS students, families, and stakeholders are invited to participate in upcoming community conversations. At these events, BCPS Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers will share information about key BCPS priorities, hear from Team BCPS community members, and answer questions.

• Wednesday, April 3

6-7 p.m.

Eastern Technical High School (Livestream)

• Wednesday, April 10

6-7 p.m.

Loch Raven Technical Academy

Spanish interpretation will be available at all sessions. Interpreting services for other languages upon request (443-809-1250).

Schools recognized for exemplary participation in 2024 Climate Survey

Participation in the 2024 Climate Survey was the highest on record, with a final official count of 83,975 responses.

The following schools were recognized for exemplary participation:

• Carney Elementary School
• Sandalwood Elementary School
• Woodmoor Elementary School

• Arbutus Middle School
• Ridgely Middle School
• Sparrows Point Middle School

• Eastern Technical High School
• George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology
• Pikesville High School

University Partnerships Fair to take place on April 29

The Department of Teacher Development is hosting a BCPS University Partnerships Fair on Monday, April 29, from 4-6 p.m. at Cockeysville Middle School.

BCPS works with local universities to provide tuition reimbursement and additional support at the undergraduate and graduate levels for individuals seeking teacher certification, continuing professional development, or pursuing career advancement opportunities. During this event, local universities will share higher education options.

Interested participants should register for the information sessions by completing an online form. A session agenda is included for your review. Please note that advanced sign-up for sessions is required and space is limited. Questions? Contact Charlene DiMino.

Aspire BCPS 2024-2025

The Department of Employee Training and Development is seeking participants for the ASPIRE BCPS program for the 2024-2025 school year. ASPIRE BCPS provides a variety of professional development experiences that build the personal and professional skills, abilities, and leadership capacity of staff members seeking growth, change, or career advancement within BCPS. Participation in ASPIRE BCPS is open to non-represented staff and staff members represented by AFSCME, ESPBC, and OPE.

Things to know about the March 19 Board of Education Meeting

1) The Board approved new attendance zones for several BCPS elementary schools in the central area. The updated boundary zones will go into effect for the 2024-2025 school year.

2) The Board received reports on two proposed charter schools—Bilingual Global Citizens Public Charter School and Puzzle Pieces Learning Academy. The Board will vote on the proposals in April.

3) The Board approved one administrative appointment.

Free assistance with income tax

Tax questions? Your BCPS Employee Assistance Program can help you get the information you need to make smart financial choices. More information is available on a digital flyer.

Spread the word! Registration has begun for PreKindergarten and Kindergarten. More information is available on the BCPS Parents webpage.

Resources are available on the FACE SharePoint site to share with families. Additional resources are also available on Parent University. Questions? Contact Sue Hahn.

In honor of Women's History Month, BCPS presents a series of profiles of BCPS alumna succeeding in their professions and making a difference in their communities. This week, meet Nina (Lloyd) Spencer, Milford Mill graduate and vice president of retail delivery, Municipal Employees Credit Union.

Share your partnership highlights with us!

Schools and offices are invited to send brief highlights and photos of their partnerships with businesses and community organizations to communications@bcps.org. This information might be featured in the monthly BCPS Partnership Spotlight Newsletter.

FOR 10-MONTH TABCO-REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES

2024-2025 Extended Pay Option Program

BCPS will continue to provide 10-month TABCO represented employees the Extended Pay Option Program to spread their pay over 12 months during the 2024-2025 school year. Your current participation in the Extended Pay Option Program will automatically roll over for the 2024-2025 school year. Therefore, no action is necessary if you wish to continue your current participation or non-participation.

Please submit the 2024-2025 Payroll Election Form, if:

• You are not currently participating in the Extended Pay Option Program but would like to participate for the 2024-2025 school year.

OR

• You are currently participating in the Extended Pay Option Program but do not wish to participate for the 2024-2025 school year.

The enrollment/change period is April 2 to May 3. A memorandum and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding the details of the Extended Pay Option Program can be found on the Payroll website at "12 Month Pay Program."

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Office of Payroll staff at 443-809-4240 or twelvemonthpay@bcps.org.

FOR HIGH SCHOOL STAFF

Baltimore County Young Woman of the Year nominations due by 4 p.m. on April 1

Each year, the Baltimore County Commission for Women accepts nominations for its annual "Woman of the Year," "Young Woman of the Year," "Woman Making a Difference," and new this year “Woman Entrepreneur of the Year” awards. This is the commission’s 42nd year honoring women for their outstanding contributions to the community. The award honors female residents of Baltimore County who:

1. Have made significant, unique, and lasting contributions within the community, workplace or school to champion the interests and needs of women and families.
2. Recognizes the outstanding achievements of a woman entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on her industry and the Baltimore County community.
3. Serve as role models of inspiration and achievement for other women.
4. Enhance the lives of the citizens of Baltimore County.

More information is available online.

FOR ALL SCHOOL-BASED ADMINISTRATORS

Use of Facilities training

To ensure all school-based administrators are equipped with the tools and information necessary to accurately complete Use of Facilities requests and maintain compliance with Policies 1300 and 3160, the Office of Facilities Operations is providing training throughout the 2024-2025 school year.

The purpose of this training is to assist all new and current administrators with the process of:

• securing facilities in a manner that does not breach policies 1300 and 3160.
• accessing your assigned Use of Facilities portal.
• providing tools to easily navigate the Use of Facilities system.
• assisting with the responsibility and coordination of events.
• managing responsibilities that follow when acting on pending requests.
• identifying items that an assigned administrator should look for.
• coordinating with their onsite staff prior to denying or approving requests to move into the workflow.

Interested participants must register for the session by visiting the Registration System. In the Course Search box, search for course number 12729. Once you have located the course, click on "Register," and then click on "Next" to finalize your registration. Participants only need to sign up for one of the available times in the Registration System.

FOR ASPIRING SCHOOL-BASED LEADERS

Leadership information sessions

The Department of Organizational Development and Leadership is hosting a networking event for BCPS staff interested in learning about leadership opportunities in our system. Those who aspire to school-based leadership positions are invited to learn about leadership development programs, prerequisites, and pathways to achieving their goals.

• Option 1: Wednesday, April 3, from 4:30 – 6 p.m., Rossville Elementary School
• Option 2: Thursday, April 11, from 4:30 – 6 p.m., Lyons Mill Elementary School
• Option 3: Monday, April 22, from 4:30 – 6 p.m., George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology

During this event, participants will explore Team BCPS growth opportunities in alignment with the Superintendent’s theme of "Engage, Empower, Excel" and the system's four priorities. The primary focus will be on Priority 4: "Highly Effective Teachers, Leaders, and Staff - Refining efforts to recruit and retain a highly-effective and diverse teacher, support staff, and leadership workforce."

Interested participants must register for the workshop by Monday, March 18, by completing this form. The session agenda is also available for review. Space is limited, so register today to secure your spot. Questions? Contact Heather Lageman.

FOR AFSCME-REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES

UKG Ready System goes live April 6!

The UKG Ready system is set to go live for swiping on March 30, 2024, for AFSCME employees in preparation for the official go live date of April 6, 2024. The week of March 30–April 5, 2024, is a lookback period for pay calculations. The first pay date with live data will be May 3, 2023 (April 6–April 19, 2024). More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

Upcoming Board and advisory group meetings

All are welcome to attend

PTA Council of Baltimore County general meeting

Thursday, March 21

Event details

Citizens Advisory Committee for Gifted and Talented Education meeting

Wednesday, April 3, at 7 p.m.

Meeting details

Baltimore County PTA Council Reflection Art Exhibit and Awards

Sunday, April 7, from 2-4 p.m.

StarTUp at the Armory, 307 Washington Ave., Towson 21204

The National PTA Reflections Program is an arts recognition and achievement program for PreK through Grade 12 students attending a BCPS school with a PTA or PTSA. More information is available online. 

Joint meeting of Central, Northwest, and Southwest area education advisory councils

Monday, April 8, at 6 p.m.

Meeting details

Topic: “What Are the Students Saying?”

Southeast Area Education Advisory Council meeting

Monday, April 15, at 7 p.m.

Deep Creek Middle School library, 1000 S. Marlyn Ave., Baltimore 21221

Topic: “Gangs and Gang-Related Activities”

Board of Education meeting

Tuesday, April 16, at 6:30 p.m.

BCPS headquarters/Greenwood – Building E, 6901 N. Charles St., Towson 21204

Information about attending and making public comments at meetings can be found on the Board’s website. 

TEAM BCPS SHOUTOUT

Shanell Kearney, Building Operations Supervisor, Seneca Elementary School

Submitted by Jason Feiler, Principal, Seneca Elementary School

"Ms. Shanell Kearney works tirelessly to ensure our staff and students have a clean and safe learning environment at Seneca Elementary. She takes pride in our building and motivates her custodial staff to have the same pride in their work. She is a fierce advocate for our school and ensures all work orders are completed correctly and in a timely manner. Ms. Kearney is consistently positive, and her wonderful sense of humor makes her a joy to work with. We appreciate Ms. Kearney and the work she does for our school!"

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

Women's History Month - March

National Athletic Training Month - March

Music in Our Schools Month - March

Youth Art Month - March

Middle Level Education Month - March

Maryland Day - March 25

National Occupational Therapy Month - April

School Library Month - April

World Autism Month - April

National Assistant Principals' Week - April 1 - 5

International Haiku Day - April 17

Administrative Professionals Week - April 22 - 26

Earth Day - April 22

Administrative Professionals Day - April 24

BALTIMORE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Engage. Empower. Excel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dept. of Communications/Community Outreach

443.809.5908 | communications@bcps.org