What: Two Baltimore County Public Schools students – Jacob Badin and Radhika Patel of Western School of Technology and Environmental Science – will be presented with 2013 Content of Character awards during the Baltimore County Office of Human Resources’ 8th Annual Birthday Commemoration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance, County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, and Delegate Adrienne Jones will be among the dignitaries present to congratulate them. The Army JROTC from Windsor Mill Middle School and the Milford Mill Concert Chorale, accompanied by Music Director Thaddeus L. Price, Jr., from Milford Mill Academy, also will participate in the event.
When: Friday, January 18, 2013, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Mount Calvary A.M.E. Church
300 Eudowood Lane
Towson, MD 21286Background:
Each year, the Baltimore County Office of Human Resources honors one man, woman, boy, and girl with a Content of Character award. The award recipients are Baltimore County residents who demonstrate exemplary character and contribute to improvements within their communities.
The two youth winners for 2013 are:
Jacob Badin of Owings Mills is a senior at Western School of Technology and Environmental Science. An avid volunteer, Badin has accumulated more than 1,100 hours of community service since middle school. At Western, he is a member of the Culinary Arts magnet program, student government, and Future Educators of America, as well as a participant in athletics. Outside of school, Badin attends the Owings Mills Recreation and Parks summer camp and supports local charities.Radhika Patel of Catonsville is also a senior at Western Tech. Enrolled in the Health Science Technology magnet program, Patel applies her academic knowledge to tutoring fellow students at Western and teaching children at her religious school. Additionally, she is involved in environmental clean-up efforts in her community and serves as an intern at the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Both students were nominated by school counselor Jill Monahan.
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Two students to receive awards at Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday commemoration
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New episode of “BCPS News” airs on BCPS-TV: Student financial aid and JROTC museum featured
TOWSON, MD. – A new episode of “BCPS News,” which spotlights Baltimore County Public Schools’ achievements and progress, will be on the air from Monday, January 14, through Sunday, January 27. The show is hosted by Mary Beth Marsden, a local Emmy Award®-winning broadcaster.
Produced twice a month during the school year by BCPS-TV (The Education Channel), "BCPS News" airs daily at 12:30 a.m., 5:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 9:30 p.m., and 10:00 p.m. on Comcast Cable Channel 73 and Verizon FiOS Channel 34 in Baltimore County. Additionally, the program is available on the Web at www.bcps.org/news/ed_channel and at http://www.youtube.com/user/BaltCoPS.
The latest 15-minute episode includes stories about:
- Deer Park Middle School students who recently visited the Hippodrome Theatre to take master classes with actors from the play “Billy Elliot.”
- What high school students need to know about applying for federal student aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as explained by school counselor Alastair Palmer from Loch Raven High School.
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BCPS News Tips – The Week of January 12 – 19, 2013: Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools
Saturday, January 12
Former Maryland Teacher of the Year Joshua Parker to deliver keynote address at Morgan State University scholarship eventBCPS employee and former Maryland Teacher of the Year Joshua Parker will give the keynote address at the 28th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Martin's West, 6817 Dogwood Road, Woodlawn. With more than 800 expected to attend, the event is sponsored by the Howard L. Cornish Metropolitan Baltimore chapter of the MSU National Alumni Association and will recognize a variety of Morgan State University staff, faculty, and students. The theme of Parker's remarks is "The Dream is Still Alive." Contact: Diana Spencer, Office of Communications, 410.887.4243Monday, January 14
Hereford volunteer to be honored for service to area schoolsLinda Price, a 20-year volunteer in Hereford area schools, will receive the Golden Apple Award for Baltimore County from Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot during a 10 a.m. ceremony at Hereford High School, 17301 York Road, in Parkton. Price, through her work with My Neighbor's Foundation, helps needy Hereford Zone students with the purchase of school supplies and providing funds to enable them to attend summer camps or field trips. The group supports children at six community schools including Hereford High School. The Golden Apple Award was created by the comptroller's office to recognize outstanding volunteers within Maryland's school systems. Contact: Charles Herndon, Office of Communications, 410.887.6111 For 4th year, Norwood Elementary School takes on The Baltimore Blast in epic volleyball matchThe faculty of Norwood Elementary School will challenge players from the Baltimore Blast in the fourth annual Norwood-Blast Volleyball Match beginning at 6 p.m. at the school, 1700 Delvale Avenue in Dundalk. Seating is limited, but the PTA-sponsored event is free.Contact: Penny Setser or Pat Goldys, Norwood Elementary School, 410.887.7055Public hearing scheduled for proposed new elementary school on Mays Chapel siteThe Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a public hearingconcerningthe construction of a new elementary school on the Mays Chapel site. This public hearing is required by the Education Article, Section 4-116. The hearing will be held at 6 p.m. at Loch Raven High School, 1212 Cowpens Avenue in Towson. Those wishing to speak at the hearing may sign up beginning at 5 p.m. at the school. The Board is expected tovote on the matterat its February 5, 2013 meeting.
Contact: Brenda Stiffler, Board of Education of Baltimore County, 410.887.4126
Tuesday, January 15
Public hearing scheduled for BCPS operating budgetThe Baltimore County Board of Education will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. to seek the community's input concerning the proposed fiscal year 2014 operating budget. The hearing will be held at West Towson Elementary School, 6914 Charles Street, Towson, and sign-up for those who wish to speak begins at 6 p.m. Each speaker will be allotted three minutes. The Board is expected to approve the operating budget request at its public meeting on February 5, 2013.
Contact: Brenda Stiffler, Board of Education of Baltimore County, 410.887.4126 Seventh District Elementary School PTA to host Family Fitness NightThe PTA of Seventh District Elementary School, in conjunction with Pulse 24-hour Fitness Club, will host a Family Fitness Night from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the school's gymnasium/cafeteria, 20300 York Road, Parkton. Following a "Roadmap to Health and Fitness," participants can test their fitness levels, try a variety of group exercise classes, and learn about nutrition and proper dental care. Participants will earn stamps as they travel their "roadmap" through the evening. Stamp holders will be entered in a drawing to win prizes, including a trial membership from Pulse.Contact: Glenda Carman or Leslie Brooks, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902
Wednesday, January 16
Kingsville Elementary School to celebrate its "Superheroes of Kindness" As part of a year-long, schoolwide focus on kindness, Kingsville Elementary School students will be invited to create original superheroes whose mission is to spread kindness throughout the school. The school is located at 7300 Sunshine Avenue in Kingsville, and the activity will last all day. Contact: Amy DeNike, Kingsville Elementary School, 410.887.5949Southwest Area Education Advisory Council to host discussion of Common Core Standards and BCPS plans for Tier III high schoolsThe Southwest Area Education Advisory Council will host a meeting centered around discussing Common Core Standards and BCPS plans for its Tier III high schools from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The meeting will take place at Woodmoor Elementary School, 3200 Elba Drive in Woodlawn. Guest BCPS presenters will including John Quinn, executive director of the Office of STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Beth Aitken, executive director of the Department of Liberal Arts, and Mark Bedell, assistant superintendent for high schools.Contact: Beverly Coleman, Southwest Area Education Advisory Council, coleman.beverlya@gmail.comThursday, January 17
Halethorpe Elementary School hosts Homework and MSA NightHalethorpe Elementary School children and family members are invited to the school's Homework and MSA Night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the school at 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe. In addition to many activities related to homework and the MSA state tests, the event will feature a visit from the BCPS Parentmobile, a rolling, retrofitted school bus that travels to schools, community events, local businesses, and neighborhoods to help parents and community members access information relative to education. Contact: Jill Carter, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406Friday, January 18
Buster the Bus to visit Pine Grove Elementary SchoolPre-kindergarten and kindergarten students will be treated to a visit from Buster the Bus at 10 a.m. at Pine Grove Elementary School, located at 2701 Summit Avenue in Parkville. Buster, a free bus safety program and motorized miniature bus, will review safe bus riding tips with the children and then take children on a bus ride around the community to practice the bus safety tips they have learned. Contact: Jean Wilson, Pine Grove Elementary School, 410.887.5268Two BCPS students to receive awards at Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday commemoration Two Baltimore County Public Schools students – Jacob Badin and Radhika Patel of Western School of Technology and Environmental Science – will be presented with 2013 Content of Character awards during the Baltimore County Office of Human Resources' 8th Annual Birthday Commemoration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The commemoration ceremony will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mount Calvary A.M.E. Church, 300 Eudowood Lane, Towson. Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance, County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, and Delegate Adrienne Jones will be among the dignitaries present to congratulate them. The Army JROTC from Windsor Mill Middle School and the Milford Mill Concert Chorale, accompanied by Music Director Thaddeus L. Price, Jr., from Milford Mill Academy also will participate in the event. Contact: Baltimore County Office of Human Resources, 410.887.3135Students at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School "keep moving forward"Students at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, 4300 Bedford Road in Pikesville, will participate in the 10th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Creative Expressions Contest by submitting essays, poems, and artistic drawings that relate to the theme a Dr. King quotation: "If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl. Whatever you do, keep moving forward." Students will receive cash prizes for the most outstanding creative expression. The Sudbrook celebration kicks off a weekend of activities to honor the memory of Dr. King as well as the second inauguration of President Barack Obama on Monday, January 21. A presentation of the awards will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the school's library. Contact: Janice Washington, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, 410.887.6720↧
Grade 8 students and their parents invited to learn more about college opportunities
What: Baltimore County Public Schools Grade 8 students – especially those who will be the first in their families to attend college – are invited to participate in one of three upcoming Early College Awareness workshops. The free workshops cover topics such as financial aid for college and how to prepare for college success while in high school. The events begin with dinner and feature opportunities to hear from college students. The Early College Awareness program, now in its 12th year, is offered by a partnership among the Harvard–Radcliffe Club of Maryland, through the law offices of Bob Bowie, Goucher College, Stevenson University, the Community College of Baltimore County, and the BCPS Office of School Counseling.
When and
Where: Wednesday, January 16, 2013, beginning at 5:30 p.m.Goucher College
Athenaeum (library building)
1021 Dulaney Valley Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21204
Thursday, February 7, 2013, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Stevenson University, Greenspring Campus
(Dinner in gym/Program in theater)
1525 Greenspring Valley Road
Stevenson, Maryland 21153
Tuesday, March 19, 2013, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The Community College of Baltimore County – Essex
Building J – Rooms 100 & 137
7201 Rossville Boulevard
Baltimore, Maryland 21237 Background: For additional information, Grade 8 students and their parents are encouraged to
contact the counseling offices at their schools.
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Maryland’s College Savings Plans to host parent information meetings at 8 BCPS schools: Meetings to educate parents about saving for children’s education
What: The College Savings Plans of Maryland program has scheduled “Parent Information Night” meetings through March at eight of Baltimore County’s middle schools. The meetings are open to all Baltimore County parents who are considering a college education for their children.
When & Where: All meetings will begin at 7:00 p.m. on the dates and at the
locations listed below. Monday, February 4:Franklin Middle School, 10 Cockeysmill Road, ReisterstownWednesday, February 13: Perry Hall Middle School, 4300 Ebenezer Road, Perry HallTuesday, February 19: Pikesville Middle School, 7701 Seven Mile Lane, PikesvilleWednesday, February 20: Cockeysville Middle School, 10401 Greenside Drive, CockeysvilleWednesday, February 27: Deep Creek Middle School, 1000 S. Marlyn Avenue, Essex Loch Raven Technical Academy, 8101 LaSalle Road, TowsonWednesday, March 6: Pine Grove Middle School, 9200 Old Harford Road, ParkvilleWednesday, March 13: Arbutus Middle School, 5525 Shelbourne Road, ArbutusBackground:
The College Savings Plans of Maryland offers two 529 Plans from the state of Maryland to help save for college costs. The Maryland Prepaid College Trust allows participants to lock in tomorrow’s tuition at today’s prices and offers the security of a Maryland Legislative Guarantee. The Maryland College Investment Plan offers a variety of different investment portfolios managed by T. Rowe Price. Both plans also offer state and federal tax benefits. The plans’ Parent Information Nights provide parents with information and application materials and are open to anyone interested in saving for a future college education. For more information, contact the program at 1-888-4MD-GRAD or on the Web site at www.collegesavingsmd.org.
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Southwest Academy team wins award at regional city-planning competition
TOWSON, MD. – A team of students from Southwest Academy Magnet School for Science and Engineering earned the Outstanding First Year Participant award in the Mid-Atlantic Region Future City Competition.
Southwest Academy team members Naeem Brown, Zack Burke, Ashley Longo, and Awsaf Sikdar received the award. (Wajed Khan is also a member of the team but did not attend the competition.) During the competition, the team was supported by advisors Kim Sturdivant-Miller, science department chair and Project Lead The Way – Gateway to Technology (PLTW-GTT) teacher, and Valerie Hawkins, magnet coordinator and PLTW-GTT teacher, and by engineer mentor Kennedy Huddleston, pre-college outreach chair of the Maryland Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Held on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at the Baltimore Museum of Industry, the competition saw Southwest Academy’s team, the only participant from BCPS in this year’s match, challenge 14 other teams from schools in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
The Future City Competition, a national project-based learning experience, invites students in Grades 6–8 to imagine, design, and build cities of the future. Students work in teams with educator advisors and an engineer mentor to develop city blueprints using SimCity™ 4 Deluxe software, research and propose solutions to an engineering problem, construct tabletop scale models with recycled materials, and present their ideas before judges. This year’s theme for all regional and national competitions is “Rethink Runoff: Design Clean Solutions to Manage Stormwater Pollution.”
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Former Maryland Teacher of the Year, a BCPS educator, to be honored at national gala
What: Joshua Parker, 2012 Maryland Teacher of the Year and 2011¬-2012 Baltimore County Teacher of the Year, will be honored at the NEA Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala. He will be recognized as one of 38 recipients of the California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence, one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for public school educators. Known as “the Academy Awards of public education,” the gala attracts more than 850 of the nation’s leaders in public education, philanthropy, and business.
When: Friday, February 8, 2013, beginning at 6:30 p.m.Where: The National Building Museum
401 F Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001Background:
Parker, now a Title I Gap Reduction Specialist for Baltimore County Public Schools, was English, Reading, and World Languages Department Chair at Windsor Mill Middle School.
A Randallstown resident, he was nominated by the Maryland State Educators Association, National Education Association’s state affiliate in Maryland. As a result of Parker earning this honor, Windsor Mill Middle School received a $650 award.
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Vincent Farm Elementary wins $10,000 grand prize in BGE’s Wires Down Video Challenge
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Board of Education of Baltimore County to Meet on Tuesday, January 22
TOWSON, MD— The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a work session on Tuesday, January 22, 2013, to review the Superintendent’s proposed FY2014 operating budget. Board work sessions are held for receiving reports, conducting in-depth reviews of school program(s), and developing and discussing Board policy.
The Board will meet in open session at approximately 5:30 p.m. to discuss items of interest to Board members. The Board will then move immediately to a closed session. The Board will reconvene to begin its work session at approximately 6:30 p.m. Representatives of stakeholder groups and members of the public have the opportunity to speak at Board work sessions. In order to speak at the upcoming Board meeting, stakeholder group representatives and members of the public must sign up between 5:00 p.m. and 6:25 p.m. outside of the Board's meeting room.
The meeting(s) will be held in the ESS Building, Room 114, on the Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, in Towson. The public is welcome to attend and observe all of the Board's open sessions.
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Dulaney High senior earns top science recognition
TOWSON, MD—Dulaney High senior Lisa Ann Tang has been named as a semifinalist in the Intel Science Talent Search, the nation’s most prestigious pre-college science competition. Tang is one of 11 students from Maryland named among 300 students selected nationwide, and she is the only winner from Baltimore County.
The Intel Science Talent Search encourages students to tackle challenging scientific questions and develop the skills needed to solve the problems of tomorrow. Tang’s entry is entitled “Applying Tripartite Split GFP Complementation Technology to Study RAGE Interactions and Signaling.”
As a semifinalist, Tang will be awarded $1,000, and Dulaney High School will receive $1,000 designated to support further excellence in STEM.
Finalists will be announced on Wednesday, January 23. Those selected will be invited to Washington, DC, in March to participate in final judging, display their work to the public, meet with notable scientists, and compete for the top award of $100,000.
Pete Sykes, Tang’s physics teacher who nominated her to the Intel Science Talent Search, says he is “Not the least bit surprised Lisa Ann received this recognition. In my years of teaching, she definitely is one of the most intelligent, well-rounded, and hardest working students I’ve come across. Lisa Ann is deserving of any accolades that may come her way, for her grace and presence as much as for her academic achievements. She is a unique and special young woman who has a bright future. “
Alumni of Intel Science Talent Search have made extraordinary contributions to science and hold more than 100 of the world’s most coveted science and math honors, including the Nobel Prize and the National Medal of Science.
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BCPS News Tips – The Week of January 22 – 26, 2013: Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools
Tuesday, January 22
Math Night is coming to Deer Park Elementary School Deer Park Elementary School’s annual Math Night will take place from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the school, 9809 Lyons Mill Road, Owings Mills. The theme for this year’s event is “Math Games,” and students and families will have the opportunity to play and participate in many educational mathematical activities, including “tangram” games, basic facts games, problem-solving games, estimation games, and logic puzzles. Contact: Kristine Frank or Karin Carter, Deer Park Elementary School, 410.887.0723Wednesday, January 23
Hippodrome’s “Enchanted Tales” program at Owings Mills Elementary School culminates with trip to theater, completion of fairy tale About 40 Grade 4 students from Owings Mills Elementary School will travel to the Hippodrome Theater in Baltimore on January 23 to see “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” as part of a months-long program at the school sponsored by The Hippodrome Foundation, Inc., and T. Rowe Price. The program, “Bringing Enchanted Tales to Life,” introduces grade school students to the elements of story-telling and fairy tales. Since December, the students, who were chosen based on their completion of reading goals and conduct, have worked with foundation staff and teachers to create and illustrate their own fairy tale. In February, students will learn how to illustrate their fairy tale, called “Peanut Butter Dragon and Jelly Kingdom,” which will be bound into a hardcover book for each student. Please contact the school for additional details and specific times of events associated with the program. The Hippodrome Theatre is located at 12 N. Eutaw Street in Baltimore; Owings Mills Elementary School is located at 10824 Reisterstown Road in Owings Mills. Contact: Lisa Fletcher or Joy Akehurst, Owings Mills Elementary School, 410.887.1710 Pine Grove Elementary School students to visit UMBC Grade 5 students at Pine Grove Elementary School will visit the University of Maryland, Baltimore County for “Midday Madness” during as part of a program aimed at raising college awareness and encouraging goal setting. The students will enjoy an athlete-led tour of the campus, a pep rally, and a basketball game. Please contact Pine Grove Elementary School for additional information and specific times. Contact: Jean Wilson, Pine Grove Elementary School, 410.887.5268 Red House Run Elementary School to host Family Math Night Red House Run Elementary School's annual Family Math Night will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. at the school, 1717 Weyburn Road in Rosedale. This year’s math night theme is "Walking in Mathematical Wonderland," and students and their families are invited to come for one of two sessions that involve math games and great math books and lessons that focus on estimating, adding, and multiplying. Contact: Mary Ellen Castle or Drue Whitney, Red House Run Elementary School, 410.887.0506Friday, January 25
Reading to be focus of visit to Ridge Ruxton School A special guest from the Baltimore County Department of Aging will present a donation to the Ridge Ruxton School library beginning at 1 p.m. at the school, which is located at 6916 N. Charles Street in Towson. In addition, the guest also will read a book about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to two classes. Contact: Erica Chaney, Ridge Ruxton School, 410.887.3594 Carney Elementary School will hold a “Hop for Hopkins” Carney Elementary School, 3131 E. Joppa Road in Parkville, will hold a “Hop for Hopkins” from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the school. This special dance and evening of family fun will benefit the Johns Hopkins Children Center through the Kids Helping Hopkins values education program. This musical celebration of caring and sharing will be hosted by guest deejay “Detour Dave” Sandler. Refreshments will be sold, and there will also be door prizes for the Carney families and guests. A donation of $3 per attendee is requested. Contact: Denise Bosworth, Carney Elementary School, 410.887.5228↧
Last day for BCPS parents to take online survey about college readiness: Survey ends January 23
TOWSON, MD— Parents of Baltimore County Public Schools students in Grades 6–12 have just one day left to participate in an online survey about access to college readiness resources.
The confidential survey is available at https://www.research.net/s/GZS7Q9X through Wednesday, January 23, 2013. Families with more than one child enrolled in grades 6-12 are invited to complete one survey per child.
As a part of the school system’s longstanding partnership with The College Board, BCPS is undergoing an EXCELerator District Diagnostic. The diagnostic process, which includes the survey, will evaluate the school system’s capacity to prepare students for college success.
In addition to the online parent survey, the EXCELerator team will review pertinent document and student data and conduct stakeholder interviews and school visits. Findings from the EXCELerator District Diagnostic will identify the strengths of the BCPS’ college readiness infrastructure and provide district leaders with recommendations for improvements.
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All-County Honors Jazz Band and Chorus to perform at The Walters Art Museum
What: Baltimore County Public Schools invites the public to attend its 2013 All-County Honors Jazz Ensemble concert, featuring performances by the All-Honors Jazz Band and Chorus. Under the direction of Melvin Miles, Jr., a faculty member of Morgan State University’s Department of Fine Arts, the jazz band will play selections such as “Fascinating Rhythm,” “Keep That Same Old Feeling,” and “Take Five.” Conducted by Alison Crockett, professor of jazz voice at George Washington University, the chorus will sing selections including “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “My One and Only Love,” and “You’re My Everything.” Admission to the concert is free.
When: Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.
(Snow date: Saturday, February 9)Where: The Walters Art Museum
600 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201Background:
The annual BCPS event welcomes musicians from high schools across the county to audition for invitation into the jazz ensembles.
Participants in this year’s Honors Jazz Band include:Saxophone
Miranda Janello, Towson High School
Charles LaCasse, Towson High School
Geoffrey Palo, Towson High School
Vaughn Parts, Towson High School
Hojin Yoon, Dulaney High SchoolTrumpet
Nolan Breysse, Perry Hall High School
Hart Guonjian-Pettit, Towson High School
Anastasios Papadopoulos, Towson High School
Luke Powers, Towson High SchoolTrombone
Noah Gaylor, Perry Hall High School
Samuel Geesey, Towson High School
Scott Paulis, Towson High School
Matthew Rafferty, Dulaney High SchoolRhythm Section
Thomas Bryant, Towson High School
Joseph Gallo, Towson High School
Jack Hunt, Towson High School
Joshua Miller, Owings Mills High School
Bryant Thompson, Owings Mills High School
Participants in this year’s Honors Jazz Chorus include:Soprano
Laura Gede, Franklin High School
Nicole Grap, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
LaSeanda Hendrick, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Allison Ready, Towson High SchoolAlto
Kellyn Meeks, Towson High School
Brianna Murchison, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Elizabeth Redding, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Machell Smith, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Ahna Stewart, Towson High SchoolTenor
Joshua Langdon, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Timothy Williams, Owings Mills High SchoolBass
Dennis Bullock, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Vincent Gelso, Towson High School
David Jackson, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
David Keener, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Jahmar Wolford, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts
Alexander Zavalkovskiy, Towson High School
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Baltimore County schools to close 2 hours early
TOWSON, MD. – Due to expected inclement weather, Baltimore County’s public schools will close two hours early today, Friday, January 25, 2013. In addition, there will be no afternoon or evening activities for BCPS schools.
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New episode of “BCPS News” airs on BCPS-TV: A rising country star, future engineers, and safe schools are among features
TOWSON, MD. – A new episode of “BCPS News,” which spotlights Baltimore County Public Schools’ achievements and progress, will be on the air beginning Monday, January 28, through Sunday, February 10. The show is hosted by Mary Beth Marsden, a local Emmy Award®-winning broadcaster.
Produced twice a month during the school year by BCPS-TV (The Education Channel), "BCPS News" airs daily at 12:30 a.m., 5:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 9:30 p.m., and 10:00 p.m. on Comcast Cable Channel 73 and Verizon FiOS Channel 34 in Baltimore County. Additionally, the program is available on the Web at www.bcps.org/news/ed_channel and at http://www.youtube.com/user/BaltCoPS.
The latest 15-minute episode includes stories about:
- Parkville High School student Evan Michael, a country singer on his way to stardom.
- Franklin High School’s recognition from the University of Maryland College Park as a prime source for future engineers.
- A look at the importance of keeping schools safe and secure learning environments, featuring School Safety and Security Executive Director Dale Rauenzahn.
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BCPS News Tips – The Week of January 26 – February 2, 2013: Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools
Tuesday, January 29
Chatsworth School hosts STEM Night for parents
A Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Night for parents will be held at Chatsworth School, with a snow date of Thursday, January 31. The evening will feature information about the upcoming Baltimore County Science Fair in April for the school and in May for the countywide fair. Parents will be able to learn about bringing 21st century technology into Chatsworth's classrooms. The event also will feature information about electronic databases and other resources available to help families support their child's learning at home.Please call the school for specific times and additional details. The school is located at 222 New Avenue in Reisterstown.
Contact: Nancy Braverman or Nancy Casalena, The Chatsworth School, 410.887.1103
Wednesday, January 30
Strike up the band! (and orchestra! And chorus!) for Milbrook Elementary School's winter concert
Milbrook Elementary School will host its winter concert beginning at 7 p.m. at the school, located at 4300 Crest Heights Road in Pikesville, featuring students in Grades 1, 2, and 5. The Grade 5 band, orchestra, and chorus will perform a selection of winter music, while chorus students in Grades 1 and 2 will perform songs about snow and the winter holidays. The performers will also present a concert for classmates during the school day on Wednesday, January 30.
Contact: Jaclyn Bryan or Elizabeth Curtiss, or Christina Byers, Milbrook Elementary School, 410.887.1225
Seventh District Elementary School to hold STEM Fair Information Night
Seventh District Elementary School will hold its annual STEM Fair Information Meeting for all parents of Grade 4 and 5 students beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the school, located at 20300 York Road in Parkton. Parents are invited to attend this meeting in order to obtain the most up-to-date information regarding students' projects.
Contact: Chris Covey, Kate Ibbitson, or Leslie Brooks, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902
Thursday, January 31
Kingsville Elementary School offers a "BCRs and BROWNIES" program for parents
Kingsville Elementary School teachers Amy DeNike, Kelly Pinnell, and Kathryn Price will present an informational parent meeting about Brief Constructed Responseassessment questionsused in the classroom and on the Maryland School Assessment.At the 4:15 p.m. meeting, parents will learn about the format of these assessment questions and tips for helping their children reach higher levels on assessments. Student samples of BCRs will be shared and discussed with the group. Kingsville Elementary School is located at 7300 Sunshine Avenue in Kingsville.
Contact: Susan Felts or Amy DeNike, Kingsville Elementary School, 410.887.5949
Jump Rope for the Heart at Pikesville Middle School kicks off to support cures to the nation's most dangerous diseases
The Jump Rope for Heart program kicks off for the school year at Pikesville Middle Male with Grade 7 male students participating in the "Hoops for the Heart" portion of the activity throughout the day today and Friday, February 1, to be followed by female Grade 7 students participating in the Jump Rope for the Heart on March 27 and 28. Both programs take place throughout the school day. The event, which benefits the American Heart Association, also earns five hours of community service learning credit for the participant. The school is located at 7701 Seven Mile Lane, Pikesville.
Contact: Amy Goldberg or Amanda Doran, Pikesville Middle School, 410.887.1207
Friday, February 1
BCPS rallies for the Super Bowl-bound Baltimore Ravens
Schools across Baltimore County will show their "Purple Pride" throughout the day with a variety of Ravens-related rallies and celebrations to honor Baltimore's Super Bowl-bound NFL football team. At Pinewood Elementary School, for instance, located at 200 Rickswood Road in Lutherville, students and staff will wrap up a week of Ravens spirit with a purple explosion as the staff and students wear Ravens colors and accessories. Over at Ridge Ruxton School at 6916 N. Charles Street in Towson, meanwhile, students and staff will learn about the players through a variety of instructional activities as well as show their enthusiasm at a pep rally scheduled for 1 p.m. Another example of Ravens pride takes place during the 2:30 p.m. Glenmar Elementary School Ravens Pep Rally, taking place at the school at 6300 Community Drive, in Middle River. The Team BCPS message to Baltimore's team: "Go Ravens!"
Contact: Franchesca Brown, Pinewood Elementary School, 410.887.7663
Laura Dennis or Ed Bennett, Ridge Ruxton School, 410.887.3594
Mike Parker, Glenmar Elementary School, 410.887.0127
Patapsco High School's APPlied Club debuts its third mobile app: "Hall Sweep"
Students of the Patapsco High School APPlied Club will celebrate the launch of the group's latest mobile application, called "Hall Sweep," at 2:45 p.m. at the school, located at 8100 Wise Avenue in Dundalk. The creation will be the third mobile app that the students at Patapsco have created in their after school mobile app development club. The event will be held in the library and will include an unveiling of the app, a question-and-answer session with the student developers, and light refreshments.
Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School & Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060
Second BCPS-CCBC cohort attains Certificates of Business in special ceremony
Sixty-three Baltimore County Public School employees will receive their Certificates of Business during a ceremony marking not only the successful completion of the employees' rigorous course of study but the end of the second "cohort" group of graduates of a special program between BCPS and the Community College of Baltimore County. The ceremony honoring the second class of graduates takes place at 6 p.m., in the Q Theatre at CCBC Catonsville, located at 800 South Rolling Road in Catonsville. BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance will join CCBC President Dr. Sandra L. Kurtinitis in awarding the certificates to 63 hourly BCPS employees, which will mark the completion of 30 credit hours in business and management. In the program, courses are offered free of charge to BCPS employees seeking to enhance their skills and further their education. BCPS pays for tuition, fees and textbooks for targeted employees interested in furthering their education through this special initiative. Participants attended college classes in the evening at BCPS sites throughout Baltimore County. Classes are offered in communications, accounting, economics, human resources, management and a variety of general business courses. A Certificate in Management was earned after completing 18 credit hours. BCPS employees who earn their Certificate in Business will be able to continue their courses toward earning an Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration in the fall of 2013. The program, which started in 2010, includes special incentives to encourage students to earn their associate degree.
Contact: Hope Davis, Community College of Baltimore County, 443.840.5053
Charles Herndon, BCPS Office of Communications, 410.887.6111
Saturday, February 2
Baltimore County Public Schools' All-Honors Jazz Band and Chorus to play at Walters Art Museum
The annual Baltimore County High School Honors Jazz Ensemble Concert will be held at the Walters Art Museum at 7:30 p.m. The performance will highlight high school students selected from an audition process to perform in a county-wide honors ensemble. Under the direction of Melvin Miles, Jr., a faculty member of Morgan State University's Department of Fine Arts, the jazz band will play selections such as "Fascinating Rhythm," "Keep That Same Old Feeling," and "Take Five." Conducted by Alison Crockett, professor of jazz voice at George Washington University, the chorus will sing selections including "I've Got You Under My Skin," "My One and Only Love," and "You're My Everything." Admission to the concert is free. Admission is free and open to the public, and tickets are not required. The museum is located at 600 N. Charles Street in Baltimore. The snow date is Saturday, February 9, 2013.
Contact: Karl Stewart, Office of Music, 410.887.4024
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3 BCPS students named winners in Champions of Courage contest: BCPS also claims 6 of 20 finalist slots
TOWSON, MD—Baltimore County Public Schools students won first-, second-, and third-place honors in the 26th Annual Champions of Courage Black History Month Essay Competition coordinated by WBFF-TV FOX 45 and WNUV-TV The CW Baltimore. As winners, the students’ recitations of their essays will be aired on the television stations through February.
Erin Nolder, a senior at Loch Raven High School, tied for first place. She was awarded $250, and her school received $600. Katie Horwitz, a sophomore at Pikesville High School, earned second place, including a $200 personal award and $500 for her school. Sol’jah Evans-Boum, a Grade 6 student at Loch Raven Technical Academy, received third-place honors along with a $100 personal award and $300 for his school.
In addition, as schools represented by winners, Loch Raven High, Pikesville High, and Loch Raven Technical Academy will be offered Operation HOPE’s Banking on Our Future financial literacy program by Champions of Courage sponsor M&T Bank.
The award-winning essays were selected from among 3,500 student entries from 83 area schools. Students in Grades 6 through 12 were asked to write essays about their personal heroes to describe how their heroes reflect the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Winning essays were selected from among 20 finalists, six of whom represented Baltimore County Public Schools. In addition to Nolder, Horwitz, and Evans-Boum, the other BCPS student finalists were Toan Bui, Grade 8, Arbutus Middle School; Katherine Buttarazzi, Grade 6, Dumbarton Middle School; and Farah Vejzagic, Grade 11, Loch Raven High School.
2013 “CHAMPIONS OF COURAGE”
Black History Month Essay Competition
Grand Prize Winners from Baltimore County Public Schools
First Place (tie) ERIN NOLDER Loch Raven High School The majority of lessons learned from high school coaches probably involve a physical skill, but my field hockey coach, Elizabeth Miller, has given me something more valuable. Just as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. believed in the power of unity over division, she showed us that our team was stronger together than we ever could be as individuals. Through her open heart, she helped a collection of sixteen unique teenage girls embrace each other’s differences and grow into a family. Second Place KATIE HORWITZ Pikesville High School My best friend and mentor, Alexandria, has greatly touched my life by the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As she is African American and I am Caucasian, we have experienced each other’s worlds; worlds of much diversity, history and most importantly, equality. She and I have formed a friendship, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dreamed. She has left a footprint on my heart by teaching me valuable lessons and changing my understanding for the better. She has taught me that we will always walk side by side, never alone. Our races do not hinder our friendship. We are one. We are equal. Third Place SOL’JAH EVANS-BOUM Loch Raven Technical Academy My mother displays the teaching of Dr. King through her role as a mentor to hundreds of Baltimore’s at-risk juvenile offenders. She offers compassion and love to her mentees and does not judge them based on their past choices. Her love inspires them to have hope. My mom helps kids to discover their talent, and shows them how to make their dreams a reality. Dr. King believed in the equality of hopes and dreams for everyone just like my champion of courage, Aiyda Evans.
First Place (tie) ERIN NOLDER Loch Raven High School The majority of lessons learned from high school coaches probably involve a physical skill, but my field hockey coach, Elizabeth Miller, has given me something more valuable. Just as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. believed in the power of unity over division, she showed us that our team was stronger together than we ever could be as individuals. Through her open heart, she helped a collection of sixteen unique teenage girls embrace each other’s differences and grow into a family. Second Place KATIE HORWITZ Pikesville High School My best friend and mentor, Alexandria, has greatly touched my life by the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As she is African American and I am Caucasian, we have experienced each other’s worlds; worlds of much diversity, history and most importantly, equality. She and I have formed a friendship, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dreamed. She has left a footprint on my heart by teaching me valuable lessons and changing my understanding for the better. She has taught me that we will always walk side by side, never alone. Our races do not hinder our friendship. We are one. We are equal. Third Place SOL’JAH EVANS-BOUM Loch Raven Technical Academy My mother displays the teaching of Dr. King through her role as a mentor to hundreds of Baltimore’s at-risk juvenile offenders. She offers compassion and love to her mentees and does not judge them based on their past choices. Her love inspires them to have hope. My mom helps kids to discover their talent, and shows them how to make their dreams a reality. Dr. King believed in the equality of hopes and dreams for everyone just like my champion of courage, Aiyda Evans.
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Two Baltimore County students named Presidential Scholar candidates
TOWSON, MD. – Two Baltimore County Public Schools students are among approximately 3,000 chosen from across the country as 2013 candidates for the Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s most elite high school honors.
The Presidential Scholars candidates from Baltimore County Public Schools are Adam T. Antoszewski of Arbutus, a senior at Catonsville High School, and Sarah Miller of Catonsville, a senior at George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.
Administered by the U.S. Department of Education, the national recognition program will select up to 141 Presidential Scholars for 2013, including young men and women from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad. Among the Presidential Scholars will be up to 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
This year, approximately 3,000 candidates qualified on the basis of outstanding performance on SAT and ACT exams and another 60 by nomination through the nationwide Arts Recognition and Talent Search conducted by the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts. From this pool of candidates, the Commission on Presidential Scholars will select Presidential Scholars based on the quality of their academic and artistic achievements, personal characteristics, leadership and service activities, and an analysis of their essays.
“Team BCPS is proud of Adam and Sarah for this wonderful achievement,” said Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “Not only is it a honor for them, but it also celebrates the support they have received from their schools and from their school system. When we talk about becoming the best school system in the nation, we are talking about ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach the level of achievement that students like Adam and Sarah have reached.”
The 500 Presidential Scholar semifinalists will be announced in early April, and the final selection of scholars will be posted in early May. All Presidential Scholars are invited to participate in National Recognition Week held in June in Washington, D.C. The scholars will spend the week participating in seminars, lectures, and workshops with government officials, educators, authors, musicians, scientists, and other accomplished professionals, and attending cultural events and ceremonies held in their honor. The week culminates in a White House-sponsored event at which the Scholars are awarded the Presidential Medallion.
The Presidential Scholars program was created in 1964 to honor academic achievement. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts. Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has invited his or her most inspiring teacher to travel to Washington, D.C., to receive a Teacher Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Education and to participate in the recognition events.
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Elementary and middle school teams to compete in Black Saga regional semifinal competitions
What: More than 60 teams of students representing Baltimore County Public Schools elementary and middle schools will compete in regional semifinals, hosted on three different occasions, to determine which teams will advance to the countywide Black Saga finals.When: Regional Semifinals:
Wednesday, January 30, 2013; Tuesday, February 5, 2013; and Wednesday, February 13, 2013, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m. First Match
6:00 p.m. Second Match
Countywide Finals:
Saturday, February 23, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Where: First Regional Semifinals Competition:
Golden Ring Middle School
6700 Kenwood Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21237
Second Regional Semifinals Competition:
New Town High School
4931 New Town Boulevard
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Third Regional Semifinals Competition:
Randallstown High School
4000 Offutt Road
Randallstown, MD 21133
Countywide Finals:
Randallstown High School
4000 Offutt Road
Randallstown, MD 21133
Background:
Culminating each year during Black History Month, the Black Saga Competition challenges students with a variety of questions and challenges related to the African-American experience.
Participants in this year’s Black Saga regional semifinals include:
Elementary School Teams
- Carney, Team 1
- Carney, Team 2
- Chapel Hill
- Cromwell Valley, Team 1
- Cromwell Valley, Team 2
- Edmondson Heights, Team 1
- Edmondson Heights, Team 2
- Elmwood, Team 1
- Elmwood, Team 2
- Harford Hills, Team 1
- Harford Hills, Team 2
- Hernwood, Team 1
- Hernwood, Team 2
- Hillcrest, Team 1
- Hillcrest, Team 2
- Joppa View, Team 1
- Joppa View, Team 2
- Kingsville
- Logan, Team 1
- Logan, Team 2
- Milbrook, Team 1
- Milbrook, Team 2
- Pinewood, Team 1
- Pinewood, Team 2
- Pleasant Plains
- Powhatan, Team 1
- Powhatan, Team 2
- Seneca, Team 1
- Seneca, Team 2
- Victory Villa, Team 1
- Victory Villa, Team 2
- Villa Cresta
- Wellwood International, Team 1
- Wellwood International, Team 2
- West Towson, Team 1
- West Towson, Team 2
- Westchester, Team 1
- Westchester, Team 2
- Winand, Team 1
- Winand, Team 2
- Woodmoor, Team 1
- Woodmoor, Team 2
- Catonsville, Team 1
- Catsonville, Team 2
- Deer Park, Team 1
- Deer Park, Team 2
- Dundalk, Team 1
- Dundalk, Team 2
- Golden Ring
- Old Court
- Parkville, Team 1
- Parkville, Team 2
- Pikesville, Team 1
- Pikesville, Team 2
- Ridgely
- Southwest Academy
- Stemmers Run, Team 1
- Stemmers Run, Team 2
- Sudbrook, Team 1
- Sudbrook, Team 2
- Windsor Mill
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Second class of unique BCPS-CCBC partnership set to graduate: 63 BCPS employees to receive Certificates in Business at Feb. 1 ceremony
TOWSON, Md. – Sixty-three Baltimore County Public Schools employees will receive Certificates in Business from Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance and Community College of Baltimore County President Dr. Sandra L. Kurtinitis during a special February 1 ceremony. This group of BCPS staff members comprises the second graduating class to complete a unique BCPS-CCBC collaboration that provides free access to higher education.
The ceremony, starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, February 1, in the Q Building at CCBC Catonsville, signifies the completion of 30 credit hours. CCBC Catonsville is located at 800 South Rolling Road in Catonsville. Names of the honorees may be found at the end of this release.
“Having a professional, accomplished team to support our students and staff is so important,” said Dr. Dance. “Our students can look at these graduates and see role models who show all of us the importance of being lifelong learners. BCPS is a learning community that encourages continued professional growth, and we know that completing this program makes our team even more effective in meeting the educational needs of our students. We congratulate them, and we congratulate and thank CCBC for their leadership and vision as we celebrate together this milestone in our partnership.”
Through the program, courses are offered free of charge to BCPS “cohort” employees seeking to enhance their skills and further their education. BCPS pays for tuition, fees, and textbooks of targeted employees, who attend college classes in the evening at BCPS sites throughout Baltimore County.
Classes are offered in communications, accounting, economics, human resources, management, and other business subjects. A Certificate in Management may be earned after completing 18 credit hours, followed by the Certificate in Business with the completion of 30 credit hours.
In addition, BCPS employees who earn Certificates in Business may continue their courses toward earning an associate of arts degree in business administration in the fall of 2013. The program, which started in 2010, includes special incentives to encourage students to earn their associate degree.
“At CCBC, we know that increased education opens the doors to better career opportunities,” Dr. Kurtinitis said. “It’s apparent that Baltimore County Public Schools values higher education, and they are showing in a very tangible way that they value their employees. We are thrilled to be partnering with BCPS on this initiative. It’s a great benefit to their employees and just one more way for CCBC to increase its reach into the community.”
Professor James P. Wayne of CCBC’s School of Business, Criminal Justice, and Law will be the keynote speaker at the ceremony. Wayne, who teaches general business courses as well as microeconomics and macroeconomics at CCBC, is an instructor in the BCPS program as well as a member of the adjunct faculties at Johns Hopkins University and the Catholic University of America.
Todd Porter of BCPS-TV, Baltimore County Public Schools’ cable channel (Comcast Channel 73 or Verizon FiOS Channel 34), will be master of ceremonies for the event.
<< Click here for list of employees receiving certificates at the ceremony >>
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