Thursday, September 5, 2024

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

September Spirit Days set to recognize Attendance Awareness Month

September is Attendance Awareness Month! Please join BCPS in recognizing the importance of on-time, regular school attendance by participating in a countywide spirit day every Friday in September. Staff and students are encouraged to participate and post on social media using hashtags #BCPSHereForIt and #SchoolEveryDay to share their photos.

Week 1 - September 6, 2024

Wear your favorite hat

"Head" toward success by being on time and attending regularly.

Week 2 - September 13, 2024

Wear your favorite sneakers

Take the necessary "steps" to be on time and attend regularly.

Week 3 - September 20, 2024

Wear your favorite bright or neon colors

Good attendance leads to success and bright futures.

Week 4 - September 27, 2024

Wear your favorite team colors, shirt, or jersey

Be a team player by showing up on time every day.

FEATURED VIDEO:

Student Member of the Board Ugonma Chike-Kalu welcomes students Back2BCPS

As we continue our #BacktoBCPS campaign, we are thrilled to announce that Ugonma Chike-Kalu, our Student Member of the Board of Education, has created special welcome videos to help kick off the year with enthusiasm and spirit!

Principals can access the following videos in our SMOB Welcome Message folder:

• Elementary and Middle Schools: A general welcome video to inspire and engage our younger students.

• High Schools: Personalized video messages crafted specifically for each high school.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE...

• Decommissioned software for staff

The digital tools and databases included in the updated document linked below will be decommissioned for the 24-25 school year. Recommendations for alternative BCPS-approved tools and linked support resources are also included in the Decommissioned Software for 24-25 School Year document. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Employee Wellness Program discounts, perks, and more

The goal of the Employee Wellness Program is to help all staff members live a more meaningful and enjoyable life, especially at work! The Employee Wellness Program is available to all employees (including full-time, part-time, and contractual staff).

Employees will discover ways to de-stress, get physically fit, be financially well and get rewarded for being healthy. They can join quarterly wellness challenges to win cash prizes and other amazing rewards! They can also get discounts at local restaurants, gyms, and other businesses just for being an employee with Baltimore county Public Schools More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Food Waste Awareness Month

In alignment with Board Policy 3540 – Energy Conservation and Sustainability, and to promote more sustainable practices in BCPS facilities, the Office of Facilities Support Services, in partnership with the Department of Food and Nutrition Services, is celebrating Food Waste Awareness Month throughout the month of September. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

• Join the United Way for the Baltimore Ravens "Caw to Action" on Monday, October 7

United Way of Central Maryland is working with the Baltimore Ravens to build volunteer activities designed for fans to give back to the community. Ideas for projects include:

• Environmental Engineer - Students will bring recyclables to school. Using these materials, students will work together to design distinctive structures.

• Postcards for Pals - Classes will be paired with another class to create and exchange messages of kindness. Digital postcards will be offered.

• Pack a Snack - Support individuals in need by assembling snack packs. A list of suggested items will be provided.

• Thank a School Employee Notes - School leaders will supply each classroom with a list of school staff members, allowing students to create thank-you notes. A digital template will be offered.

Schools will be responsible for providing the materials for these projects. Participating schools will also get a small token of appreciation from the Ravens! Register your school today!

• "Together We're Better" Inclusive Education Awareness Campaign

The Together We're Better Campaign for the 2024-2025 School Year is aligned with the National Inclusive Schools Week theme (December 5-9, 2024): “Every Voice Matters”, promoting a sense of belonging and acceptance that is essential for students’ social and emotional well-being.

Students are invited to enter art contests promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Elementary school students can enter an artwork contest, and high school students can enter a coloring book drawing contest

September 8 is International Literacy Day

The BCPS Office of English Language Arts is committed to producing globally competitive graduates who are critical and creative thinkers, accomplished readers and writers, and skillful communicators.

Current efforts include:

• Continued implementation of HMH Into Reading in grades K-5 in all BCPS schools.

• Facilitation of secondary English Language Arts curriculum pilot in grades 6-12 to support teacher delivery of high-quality instructional materials.

• Professional development for teachers across contents to enhance literacy instruction of all students.

Celebrating National Arts in Education Week September 9-13

Each year, we proudly recognize National Arts in Education Week, taking a moment to highlight the multitude of thriving arts programs around the county. Stay tuned for an upcoming "State of the Arts" post on the BCPS blog as we provide the latest updates on the system's arts programs.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day

September is National Suicide Prevention Month and September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. The 2024 Suicide Prevention Month Toolkit offers various assets, such as social media posts and shareable graphics, that will help raise awareness about the information and resources the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers about suicide prevention.

Some include:

Key Messages and Weekly Themes
Social Media Shareables
Hashtags to help connect social media content

More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

September 11 - Never Forget

Wednesday, September 11, is Patriot Day, marking the 23rd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. We remember the victims and honor those who served. We will never forget.

How will your school/office recognize Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized annually from September 15 - October 15. Does your school or office have plans to recognize Hispanic Heritage Month? Please contact us at communications@bcps.org so we can highlight your celebrations and special events.

Additionally, we will spotlight Hispanic students and staff on the BCPS Spanish Facebook page throughout Hispanic Heritage Month. If you would like to be recognized or nominate a student or staff member, please contact Gevene Harden with the following information:

-Name, job title, and school/office

-A recent, high-quality photo

-Country or countries of origin

-A brief blurb (en español o en inglés) about why you are proud of your Hispanic Heritage and/or how you connect with your roots. (1-2 paragraphs).

Do you know the laws about school bus stop arms?

The Baltimore County Police Department has partnered with BCPS and AngelTrax to implement a new school bus camera safety program.

Following a warning period, motorists who illegally pass a stopped school bus with activated flashing red lights will be subject to a $250 fine. More information is available in a BCPS news release.

We are excited to announce the implementation of the Open Gate security system at all BCPS athletic events. In addition to our bag policy, this advanced system is designed to enhance our current security measures and provide an additional layer of protection for all attendees. The Open Gate system is a touchless security screening technology that quickly and efficiently screens individuals as they enter our facilities. Please read our full community update online.

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 EDUCATORS

CCBC Educational Instructor Job Opportunity

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is looking for instructors to teach BCPS high school students on BCPS campuses as part of the Early College Access Program (ECAP). Related information, below, describes the courses, requirements, and process for applying.

CCBC On-Location Instructors Needed for the following courses:

• CMNS 101: Fundamentals of Communication

• ENGL 101: College Composition I

• HIST 112: History of the United States II

• CRJU 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice

More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

FOR HIGH SCHOOL STAFF

Baltimore County Police Department seeks participants for Youth Advisory Council - Registration deadline is September 13

The Youth Advisory Council provides youth with a platform to discuss age-appropriate topics while building positive relationships with law enforcement officers. The Council meets one Saturday each month during the school year.

FOR 10-MONTH TABCO & AFSCME-REPRESENTED STAFF

2024-2025 Extra Duty Activity (EDA) process)

The updated Extra Duty Activity (EDA) process for the 2024-2025 school year is now operational. The Division of Fiscal Services worked collaboratively across divisions to facilitate this updated process to include additional fields in the Smartsheet and a new dedicated email address for our EDA work at eda4schools@bcps.org.

This new dedicated email was created to facilitate communication between schools and the Division of Fiscal Services staff about the Extended Day Activities process. As in prior years, you will be uploading your EDA information to a Smartsheet. The link to the Smartsheet can also be found in the updated BCPS EDA Procedures Manual. More information can be found in a News Hub post.

FOR ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATORS

Elementary and middle schools invited to participate in Black Excellence Program

The Black Excellence Program (BE Program) is an extracurricular event that will engage students in the people, places, and events that have been important throughout the Black experience. This program provides a forum for students to showcase their knowledge and celebrate Black history and achievements. Principals who would like their school to participate in the BE Program should identify a club coach or sponsor and complete the registration form. Teacher sponsorship of the program is an approved EDA. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

FOR FIRST THROUGH THIRD YEAR PARAEDUCATORS

Paraeducator Induction Program

The Office of Workforce Development is proud to offer another year of the Paraeducator Induction Program for first through third year paraeducators in BCPS! The Paraeducator Induction Program is a year-long program that meets each month to provide ongoing professional development from content experts and opportunities to collaborate with experienced mentors throughout the county. More information is available in a BCPS News Hub post.

CALENDAR REMINDER

October 3 (Th) - Systemwide Professional Development Day - Schools closed for students

October 18 (F) - MSEA Convention - Schools closed for teachers and students

October 31 (F) - First Marking Period Ends - Schools close three hours early for students

BCPS Events for September 2024

Calendar for the 2024-2025 School Year

Upcoming Board and boundary study meetings

All are welcome to attend

Northwest Area Elementary School Boundary Study #2 - Meeting 1

Monday, September 11, from 6-8 p.m.

Milford Mill Academy Cafeteria

3800 Washington Ave., Windsor Mill, MD 21244

Board of Education meeting

Tuesday, September 12, at 6:30 p.m.

6901 N. Charles St., Building E, Towson, MD 21204

Holly Manor Community Boundary Study - Meeting 1

Wednesday, September 18, from 6-8 p.m.

2300 Old Frederick Rd., Catonsville, MD 21228

Greenleigh Community Boundary Study - Meeting 1

Thursday, September 19, from 6-8 p.m.

Vincent Farm Elementary School Cafeteria

6019 Ebenezer Rd., White Marsh, MD 21162

Northwest Area Elementary School Boundary Study #2 - Meeting 2

Monday, September 25, from 6-8 p.m.

Milford Mill Academy Cafeteria

3800 Washington Ave., Windsor Mill, MD 21244

Board of Education meeting

Tuesday, September 26, at 6:30 p.m.

6901 N. Charles St., Building E, Towson, MD 21204

TEAM BCPS SHOUTOUT

Samantha Maile, Principal, Arbutus Elementary School

Submitted by Sharon Shumway, Reading Specialist, Arbutus Elementary School

"Samantha Maile is a phenomenal leader and overall amazing human being. With her extensive knowledge and professionalism, it is unbelievable that this is her first year serving as a Principal. She has an unparalleled personality that is consistently calm, positive, and collaborative in any situation. These qualities have made her transition to Arbutus Elementary pleasant and inspiring for our staff and families. She has a gentle and highly effective way of challenging the staff to embrace and contribute to changes and additions to our operations that will ultimately improve all aspects of our school. Most recently she implemented an already successful 'Pawsitive Rufferal' program for our students. With much appreciation, thank you Mrs. Maile!"

Corinne Roche, Supervisor, Academic Programs and Options

Submitted by MiVida Parham, Coordinator, Office of College, Career and Technical Education

"Thank you, Corri! It is appreciated how you've answered student and parent and CCBC questions as we transition to a new CCR and ECAP process. Our community of ECAP students will thank you for your diligence and detail-oriented processes and efficiency."

Shoutout Submission Form

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.

Submit news to the Staff Bulletin

Please use the form below to submit news to the BCPS Staff Bulletin. If you have trouble using the form, please contact communications@bcps.org.

Staff Bulletin News Submission Form

BCPS News Hub

BCPS news is posted each day to the BCPS News Hub.

Be sure to click "Latest news" at the top left and then “See all” at the top right to view all items. For ease of access, bookmark this site for daily reference. The link to the BCPS News Hub can also be found on the BCPS Staff webpage.