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Applications open for BCPS’ 28th Annual Summer Instrumental Music Camp : Camp offers students a unique musical experience

April 25, 2014, 11:15 am
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TOWSON, MD— Baltimore County Public Schools’ Office of Music and Dance Education is accepting applications – now through May 2 – for the 2014 Summer Instrumental Music Camp, to be held at Cockeysville Middle School from Wednesday, June 18, 2014, to Thursday, June 26, 2014. (Due to primary elections on Tuesday, June 24, camp will not be held that day.) Students participating in the day camp, which will operate weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., will receive instruction on instrumental performance skills and techniques, participate in music enrichment classes, and rehearse in band and orchestra ensembles with students in their grade level. The camp is open to BCPS students who are both in Grades 5-12 and enrolled in their school’s instrumental music program. No audition is required. Cost of participation in the camp is $200. Transportation to and from Cockeysville Middle School will be provided at no additional charge to students who do not reside in the host school community. Buses to the camp will leave from Dundalk, Patapsco, Kenwood, Parkville and Loch Raven high schools and Golden Ring, Southwest Academy, Hereford, Ridgely, Franklin, Deer Park, Catonsville, Arbutus, Middle River, Dumbarton, Deep Creek, Pikesville, Pine Grove and Perry Hall middle schools. (Pick-up locations are subject to change based on camp enrollment.) Those interested in the camp may access the registration form from any instrumental teacher Grades 5-12 or at http://www.bcps.org/offices/elem_music/pdf/Music-Camp-Registration-Form.pdf. Payments and registration forms are due in full to the Office of Music and Dance Education by Friday, May 2. Financial assistance may be available. For more information on the summer day camp, contact Shane Jensen, camp director, at sjensen@bcps.org. The annual summer music camp is just one of several reasons why BCPS has been named one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” each year since 2006.
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BCPS News Tips: April 28 – May 3, 2014: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools

April 28, 2014, 9:52 am
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Monday, April 28
Catonsville High School to kick off annual Diversity Week
What: Through May 2, Catonsville High School will hold its annual Diversity Week with the theme of "How Are You Like Me?" To celebrate the school's diversity, students will participate in video speeches sharing the experiences of students, a door decorating contest, "mix-it-up" lunch and other activities. When: 7:45 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. daily, Monday, April 28 – Friday, May 2 Where: Catonsville High School, 421 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville 21228Contact: Cassandra Barber, 410.887.0808
Get moving to Milbrook Elementary School's STEM Fair and My Books Night
What: Milbrook Elementary will host a STEM Fair and My Books Reading Night at which families can enjoy a free pizza dinner, browse STEM Fair projects, and learn about the "My Books" summer reading program. Students have the opportunity to get fit while learning dance moves or to build and race their own sleds with help from Milbrook's teachers. When: 6-7:30 p.m., Monday, April 28Where: Milbrook Elementary School, 4300 Crest Heights Rd., Pikesville 21215Contact: Laurie Rosenberg, 410.887.1225
Wednesday, April 30
Pikesville Chamber of Commerce to honor Milbrook Elementary School
What: Milbrook Elementary School will be honored by the Pikesville Chamber of Commerce at its annual Business and Community Recognition Awards Breakfast. Chamber officials will recognize outstanding educational programs, award student scholarships, and recognize community leaders. The school also will receive recognition for the "Title I Highest Progress Reward." When: 8 a.m., Wednesday, April 30Where: North Oaks Retirement Community, 725 Mount Wilson La., Pikesville 21208Contact: Donald Setzer, 410.887.1225
Thursday, May 1
BCPS to honor National Merit, National Achievement, and Ethics Award winners
What: The Board of Education of Baltimore County will recognize students from all BCPS high schools as part of the annual National Merit Scholar and Ethics Awards celebration. Family members, friends, and school administrators will be in attendance as these students receive awards from Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance and members of the Board.When: 7 p.m., Thursday, May 1Where: North Plaza Hotel, 2004 Greenspring Dr., Timonium 21093Contact: Charles Herndon, 410.887.6111
Friday, May 2
Superintendent Dance, County Executive Kamenetz to help distribute the first laptop computers to teachers
What: BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance and Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz will begin the distribution of HP laptop/tablet computers to teachers as part of the ongoing implementation of the school system's Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow (S.T.A.T.) digital conversion initiative. Teachers will receive their devices before the end of the school year to prepare them for the first year of the 1:1 conversion in 2014-2015. When: 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 2Where: Church Lane Elementary School, 3820 Fernside Rd., Randallstown 21133Contact: Mychael Dickerson, 410.887.5908
Saturday, May 3
Daylong "Act Out Loud" Safe Teen Driving Rally at Randallstown High School focuses on safety
What: Sponsored by the Randallstown High School Students Against Destructive Decisions chapter, the rally is open to the public and is held in support of Global Youth Traffic Safety Month. The goal is to raise voices across the county for safe teen driving. Participants will listen to motivational speakers, take part in a series of activities to test driving skills and knowledge, take photos with "Larry the Crash Dummy" and enjoy great and music. In addition, high school juniors and seniors who attend will earn four community service learning hours. When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, May 3 Where: Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., Randallstown 21133Contact: Susan Ellerbee, 410.887.0748
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BCPS to name 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year : Media invited to Monday, May 5, ceremony

April 28, 2014, 12:15 pm
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What: Baltimore County Public Schools will announce its 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year and 2014-2015 Principal of the Year during a gala ceremony to be held Monday, May 5. The event will be live-streamed on BCPS-TV at www.bcps.org. Finalists for the Teacher of the Year award are
  • Adam Carney, an English teacher and technology liaison at New Town High School in Owings Mills
  • Anne Cross, a Grade 5 teacher at Gunpowder Elementary School in Perry Hall
  • Kimberly Culbertson, a chemistry and forensic science teacher at Dulaney High School in Timonium
  • Julie Krause, a Grade 1 teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School in Middle River
  • Michelle Webster, a reading specialist at Woodholme Elementary School in Pikesville
Finalists for the Principal of the Year award are:
  • Doug Elmendorf, principal of Chase Elementary School
  • Pat Goldys, principal of Norwood Elementary School
  • Andrew Last, principal of Hereford High School
  • Barbara McLennan, principal of Dundalk Elementary School
  • Sam Mustipher, principal of New Town High School
When: Monday, May 5, 2014, 4:30 – 6 p.m. Where: Loch Raven High School 1212 Cowpens Avenue Towson, MD 21286
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National Merit scholars, Ethics Award winners to be honored at Board of Education ceremony

April 28, 2014, 12:18 pm
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Who: The Board of Education of Baltimore County will recognize more than 50 students from all 25 BCPS high schools as part of the annual National Merit Scholar and Ethics Awards celebration. Family members, friends and school administrators will be in attendance as students receive awards from Superintendent Dallas Dance and members of the Board of Education of Baltimore County. When: Thursday, May 1, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. Where: North Baltimore Plaza Hotel 2004 Greenspring Drive, Timonium, MD 21093 Directions from I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway): Take Exit 24 north (Interstate 83 north) from the Beltway. At Exit 16, take ramp east onto Timonium Road and proceed to the first traffic light at Greenspring Drive. Turn right onto Greenspring Drive and proceed to the hotel on right.Background: Honors will be presented to high school seniors who have earned National Merit status by scoring in the top 1/2 of 1 percent on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT). Recognition will also be given to National Achievement Scholars. In addition, the school system's Ethics Awards will be given to one senior from each high school who best exemplifies the values of Baltimore County Public Schools.
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Sean McComb: National Teacher of the Year : BCPS Superintendent: “Now the nation is his classroom”

April 30, 2014, 5:42 am
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Sean McComb: National Teacher of the Year
TOWSON, MD. – He did it. Sean McComb, an eight-year educator from Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts whose difficult childhood propelled him to find the inspiration to teach, is the 2014 National Teacher of the Year. McComb, 30, was one of four finalists for becoming the nation’s top teacher after being named Maryland’s Teacher of the Year last October and Baltimore County’s Teacher of the Year on May 6 last year. “As a teacher, I have always found my validation in my students first – their learning, their engagement in our work and in their words of appreciation,” McComb said. “But personally, this is an incredible validation for each time I made a choice to do a little more for a student.” The Council of Chief State School Officers announced McComb’s selection during a “CBS This Morning” segment today to reveal the national winner. President Barack Obama will introduce McComb as the 64th National Teacher of the Year during a White House ceremony at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 1. The Joppa resident is the third Maryland teacher since 2006 to win the national honor and the first in Baltimore County history. “This is a role in which I am humbled and honored to serve educators. I am the child of two educators; I am married to an educator. Teachers definitively changed my life during a time of need,” McComb said, alluding to a childhood impacted both by his mother’s alcoholism and the teachers who inspired him to devote his life to teaching. “I work with an incredible staff at Patapsco who inspire me, and I learn from my students every day. I understand the importance of being a teacher and hope to serve the profession well.” McComb, his family, and state and BCPS educators led by Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance are in Washington this week for events surrounding the announcement, including the White House ceremony. “Sean is a gifted and giving teacher, and Team BCPS is proud that one of our own has been recognized for this tremendous national honor,” Dance said. “We are privileged to have him as a teacher at Patapsco and in Baltimore County, and we are happy to share his talents and his wisdom on a much larger stage. Now the nation is his classroom.” Added Lawrence Schmidt, president of the Board of Education of Baltimore County, “This is an exciting and energizing moment not only for Sean, his family and students, and his school, but for all of Baltimore County and Maryland. We know how great our teachers are in BCPS, and now, through Sean, the rest of the country will learn what it means to have great teaching and a great school system.” Maryland Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lillian Lowery also is accompanying McComb to Washington. “I have enjoyed getting to know Sean the past several months, learning about his passion for his students and his belief in their success,” she said. “Sean’s students will tell you that they believe he genuinely cares, never giving up on them and paving the way for their success. He’s the consummate educator, going above and beyond to make certain his students are ready for their futures.” As National Teacher of the Year, McComb will spend the next year travelling the nation and the world and representing public school teachers at more than 150 events. But his thoughts this week have been characteristically deferential regarding the national honor; the award, he says, is a reflection of the support he has received at Patapsco and in Baltimore County. “I hope that our students at Patapsco, the school community, and particularly my colleagues see this as a testament to the culture of caring that exists in that building,” McComb said. “It has been their daily efforts that inspire my own. Teachers across BCPS and the nation are doing inspiring work to support students, to help them fulfill their potential and to inspire them to be their best. It is meaningful and important work.” Student Rebecca Jacobs knows how important her teacher has been to her. “Mr. McComb has always encouraged me throughout high school to go beyond my potential,” she said. “I was a student who didn’t always believe in myself, and he has really helped me come out of my shell.” Added student Alisha Garrison, “Mr. McComb is a fantastic teacher. He always takes a part in our lives and does his best to help us in any way he can.” A native of King of Prussia, Pa., McComb came to Baltimore County Public Schools in 2006 after earning a bachelor of arts in English literature from the University of Pittsburgh. As an English teacher at Patapsco in Dundalk, he became the school’s coordinator of the AVID program in 2007. AVID, or Advancement Via Individual Determination, encourages empowerment for students in the academic middle. “Sean’s work ethic, dedication to his students, professional approach to teaching, and impeccable moral character truly make him a fantastic choice for National Teacher of the Year,” said Patapsco’s principal, Craig Reed. “The students and staff at Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts could not be happier that Mr. McComb has been named National Teacher of the Year. His passion for teaching truly represents the fantastic work that happens every day at our school.” McComb earned a masters degree in English education from the University of Pittsburgh in 2008 and holds a School Improvement Leadership Certificate from Goucher College in Towson. In addition to teaching AVID, he currently serves as staff development teacher at Patapsco, where he helps to coordinate staff development activities and nurture teacher growth. He has coached tennis and track at Patapsco, and in 2012, he visited China as part of the school system’s cultural exchange program. Until 2011, he captained a men’s elite ultimate Frisbee club team in Washington, D.C. McComb and his wife, Sarah, who also teaches at Patapsco High School, celebrated the birth of their first child, Silas, earlier this year. The National Teacher of the Year Program is run by the Council of Chief State School Officers, which selects a national winner from among all state teachers of the year. A CCSSO panel representing 15 national education organizations chose four finalists from the 2014 state teachers of the year and conducted interviews with each of the finalists. For more information about Sean McComb and the National Teacher of the Year Program, please visit www.bcps.org or www.ccsso.org/ntoy/About_the_Program.html.
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S.T.A.T. takes next step as teachers receive digital devices: Superintendent Dance to assist with distribution of laptop/tablets

April 30, 2014, 7:08 am
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What: The first BCPS teachers will receive their HP EliteBook© Revolve 810 G-2 devices as part of the school system’s Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow (S.T.A.T.) digital conversion initiative. The devices, which are a combination of laptop and tablet, will be distributed to all BCPS teachers by the end of the school year so they can familiarize themselves with this new interactive, primary instructional resource. In August, students in grades 1-3 at 10 “Lighthouse Schools” throughout the county will be assigned EliteBooks© to use, with all BCPS students assigned one of the devices by the 2017-2018 school year. Dr. Dance will assist in the initial distribution of the two-in-one devices at this event. When: 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 2, 2014 Where: Church Lane Elementary School 3820 Fernside Road Randallstown, MD 21133
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Board of Education of Baltimore County to Meet on Tuesday, May 6, 2014

April 30, 2014, 1:05 pm
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TOWSON, MD. - The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2014. The Building and Contracts Committee of the Board will meet at 5 p.m. The full Board will then convene an open session at approximately 5:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming school board association events, school system and community meetings, and items of interest to Board members. The Board will then move into closed session. The Board will resume its open session at approximately 7 p.m. Stakeholder group representatives and members of the public who wish to address the Board are asked to sign up between 5:30 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. outside of the Board’s meeting room. The school system is committed to accessible communication with its stakeholders. To that end, the Board of Education meetings are live-streamed and can be viewed on the BCPS Web site (www.bcps.org). The meeting(s) will be held in Building E, Room 114, on the Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, Towson. The public is welcome to attend and observe all of the Board’s open sessions.
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BCPS News Tips: May 3 – 10, 2014: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools

May 2, 2014, 5:06 am
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Saturday, May 3
Daylong “Act Out Loud” Safe Teen Driving Rally at Randallstown High School focuses on safety
What: Sponsored by the Randallstown High School Students Against Destructive Decisions chapter, the rally is open to the public and is held in support of Global Youth Traffic Safety Month. The goal is to raise voices across the county for safe teen driving. Participants will listen to motivational speakers, take part in a series of activities to test driving skills and knowledge, take photos with “Larry the Crash Dummy” and enjoy great and music. In addition, high school juniors and seniors who attend will earn four community service learning hours. When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, May 3 Where: Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., Randallstown 21133Contact: Susan Ellerbee, 410.887.0748
Four BCPS schools team up with Kids Helping Hopkins to get books to hospitalized children
What: Students and staff from New Town, Reisterstown, Scotts Branch, and Woodholme elementary schools are teaming up with Kids Helping Hopkins to sponsor the first Kids Helping Hopkins Book Fair. At the event at the Pikesville Barnes and Noble store, customers may purchase books for sick children at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center, while staff from each school will spend the day leading read-alouds, assisting families with book selection, and helping children fill out book plates to be placed inside of donated books. In addition to the donated books, a percentage of the event's proceeds will also go to the Kids Helping Hopkins program.When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday, May 3 Where: Barnes and Noble book store, 1819 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville 21208Contact: Dana Pollara, 410.887.0761
Pot Spring Elementary School celebrates the season with Spring Fling
What: Pot Spring Elementary School will host its annual Spring Fling with games and prizes, a bake sale, face painting, crafts, refreshments, and more. All proceeds are used to support and fund educational initiatives and social activities at the school. When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 3Where: Pot Spring Elementary School, 2410 Springlake Dr., Timonium 21093Contact: Michelle Doyle or Jane Martin, 410.887.7648
Sunday, May 4
Pikesville High School celebrates 50 years of excellence
What: Pikesville High School will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a variety of events and activities at the school, including a “Class Meet-Up” for reunions, food trucks in the parking lot, displays from current school clubs and organizations, and tours of the schools. At 2 p.m., an anniversary celebration will incorporate a slide show, recognition of distinguished alumni, student performances, a preview of the new school building with state and local elected officials, and a “final farewell” to the “old” school. When: 12 noon – 4 p.m., Sunday, May 4 Where: Pikesville High School, 7621 Labyrinth Rd., Pikesville 21208Contact: Jeff Jerome at jeffjerome2@aol.com or David Kreller at dkreller@bcps.org
Monday, May 5
BCPS announces Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year for 2014-2015
What: Baltimore County Public Schools will announce its 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year at a ceremony that will include remarks from BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance and National Teacher of the Year Sean McComb. When: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Monday, May 5 Where: Loch Raven High School, 1212 Cowpens Ave., Towson 21286Contact: Office of Communications, 410.887.5908
Hampton Elementary School to go green
What: Hampton Elementary School will celebrate all things “green” during a day filled with environment-related learning activities, including visits from authors, activity stations, a campus clean-up, and planting events. When: 9:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m., Monday, May 5 Where: Hampton Elementary School, 1115 Charmuth Rd., Towson 21093Contact: Patricia Kaiser, 410.887.3205
Randallstown Elementary School to cut ribbon on new Carson Reading Room
What: Randallstown Elementary School will cut the ribbon to its new Dr. Benjamin Carson Reading Room in a dedication ceremony. The room, one of several throughout Baltimore County Public Schools, is designed to provide an inviting and stimulating space for children to discover and enhance the joys of reading. When: 10 a.m., Monday, May 5Where: Randallstown Elementary School, 9013 Liberty Rd., Randallstown 21133Contact: Lois Stokes, 410.887.0746
Tuesday, May 6
Take me (and Ridge Ruxton School students) out to the ball game!
What: The annual League of Dreams event, a partnership between St. Paul’s School for Girls and Ridge Ruxton School, will be celebrated at the St. Paul’s campus in Brooklandville. Students from both schools work together to enjoy a morning of baseball and baseball-related skill building, including opening ceremonies, a players’ clinic, and the playing of a baseball game by students. Rain date is Wednesday, May 7. When: 9:30 a.m. opening ceremonies, 10:15 a.m. game, Tuesday, May 6Where: St. Paul’s School, 11232 Falls Rd., Brooklandville 21022 Contact: Frank Kolarek, 410.719.1641, or Susan Zerofsky, 410.887.3594
Wednesday, May 7
Student performances, guest readers to be part of Milbrook Elementary School spring book fair
What: Milbrook Elementary School will hold its annual spring book fair featuring guest readers, performances by students in all grades, a recorder performance, and an orchestra performance in the children's section of the Barnes and Noble store in Pikesville. The school’s library contest winners will also be announced at this event as Milbrook families enjoy time to shop with their children while encouraging a love of reading. When: 6 – 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 7 Where: Barnes and Noble book store, 1819 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville 21208 Contact: Laurie Rosenberg, 410.887.1225
Thursday, May 8
Countywide “Clean Green 15” initiative kicks off at Lutherville Laboratory Elementary School
What: BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance and County Executive Kevin Kamenetz will launch an anti-litter initiative -- the Team BCPS “Clean Green 15” litter challenge – designed to combat littering by encouraging school communities (including local community groups, businesses and others) to do quick 15-minute litter pick-ups. The program will result in $2,000 environmental grants for some schools that receive credit for the anti-littering projects or educational efforts. When: 1 p.m., Thursday, May 8Where: Lutherville Laboratory Elementary School, 7800 N. York Rd., Lutherville 21093 Contact: Office of Communications, 410.887.5908
Friday, May 9
Carnival Day comes to Ridge Ruxton School
What: The annual Loyola Carnival Day at Ridge Ruxton School begins with activities including arts and crafts, flower-planting, bowling, face painting, a planetarium, and live music as Grade 7 students from Loyola interact and assist with students from Ridge Ruxton. When: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Friday, May 9 Where: Ridge Ruxton School, 6919 Charles St., Towson 21204Contact: Erin Kilcullen, 410.887.3594
Saturday, May 10
BCPS to host 11th annual countywide STEM Fair
What: Baltimore County Public Schools elementary students from across the school district will present their science projects during the 11th annual BCPS Elementary Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Fair. When: 8 a.m., Saturday, May 10. 12:30 p.m. awards ceremony for projects.Where: Parkville High School, 2600 Putty Hill Rd., Parkville 21234Contact: Eric Cromwell, 410.887.2063
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Sandalwood Elementary School to close today at 1:30 p.m.

May 2, 2014, 6:45 am
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TOWSON, MD. – Due to power issues, Sandalwood Elementary School will close at 1:30 p.m. today, Friday, May 2, 2014. The school is located at 900 S. Marlyn Avenue in Essex.
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BCPS to name 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year today: Media invited to Monday, May 5, ceremony

May 5, 2014, 6:12 am
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What: Baltimore County Public Schools will announce its 2014-2015 Teacher of the Year and 2014-2015 Principal of the Year during a gala ceremony to be held today, Monday, May 5. The event will be live-streamed on BCPS-TV at www.bcps.org. Finalists for the Teacher of the Year award are:
  • Adam Carney, an English teacher and technology liaison at New Town High School in Owings Mills
  • Anne Cross, a Grade 5 teacher at Gunpowder Elementary School in Perry Hall
  • Kimberly Culbertson, a chemistry and forensic science teacher at Dulaney High School in Timonium
  • Julie Krause, a Grade 1 teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School in Middle River
  • Michelle Webster, a reading specialist at WoodholmeElementary School in Pikesville
Finalists for the Principal of the Year award are:
  • Doug Elmendorf, principal of Chase Elementary School
  • Pat Goldys, principal of Norwood Elementary School
  • Andrew Last, principal of Hereford High School
  • Barbara McLennan, principal of Dundalk Elementary School
  • Sam Mustipher, principal of New Town High School
When: Monday, May 5, 2014, 4:30 – 6 p.m. Where: Loch Raven High School 1212 Cowpens Avenue Towson, MD 21286
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National Teacher Day celebration to feature National Teacher of Year Sean McComb, Patapsco colleagues: School set to laud teachers throughout day and at ceremony

May 5, 2014, 8:41 am
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What: 2014 National Teacher of the Year Sean McComb will return to Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts for a special ceremony to honor teachers both at Patapsco and across Baltimore County in observance of National Teacher Day. Amid a day of events and activities at Patapsco to celebrate teachers, the ceremony will feature student performances and remarks from McComb, BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance, and Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. When: 1-2 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2014 Where: Stadium at Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts 8100 Wise Avenue Dundalk, MD 21222
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Baltimore County Public Schools again named one of nation’s best for music education: School system has received this honor every year since 2006

May 5, 2014, 8:52 am
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TOWSON, MD. – Baltimore County Public Schools has been named again as one of the nation’s "Best Communities for Music Education." The 2014 designation was made by the NAMM Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing participation in music making. This year, 376 school districts were selected as Best Communities for Music Education and 92 individual schools received SupportMusic Merit Awards. Baltimore County Public Schools first received the Best Communities honor in 2004 and then has every year since 2006. “We are quite proud of our music program and all of our fine arts instruction,” said Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “It is an essential part of ensuring that our students have a well-rounded education. In our school system, music is mandatory and yearlong for all kindergarten through eighth-grade students because we understand that the arts enrich our students and improve their academic achievement.” Baltimore County employs more music teachers than any other Maryland jurisdiction, and students can choose among extensive offerings including courses in electronic music, world music, and Advanced Placement music theory. Students perform throughout the community in choral groups, jazz ensembles, steel bands, orchestras, and marching bands. In addition, partnerships with some of the area’s leading arts organizations, such as the Hippodrome Theater and Lyric Opera Baltimore, provide opportunities to see and interact with professional performers. A partnership with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra allows students to learn from and perform alongside professional musicians, and the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras serves as ensemble-in-residence at a BCPS school, George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology. In a NAMM Foundation press release, Mary Luehrsen, executive director of the NAMM Foundation, said, “These schools and districts make a strong commitment to music education in the core curriculum, supporting its essential value to a well-rounded education for every child. Strong, engaging programs that offer students access to music cannot thrive in a vacuum. The Best Communities designation and the SupportMusic Merit Award bring hard-won visibility to music classes, programs and departments that are keeping music education alive in our schools.” Now in its 15th year, the Best Communities program evaluates schools and districts based on funding, staffing of highly qualified teachers, commitment to standards, and access to music education. The NAMM Foundation with the assistance of researchers at The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas (an affiliate of the University of Kansas) evaluate participants on these factors. Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and greater access to music education.
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40th Annual Career and Technology Education ceremony to honor 129 BCPS seniors: 5 students to be honored with Marchione Scholarships

May 5, 2014, 11:00 am
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What: At the 40th Annual Career and Technology Education Student Recognition Reception, 129 Baltimore County Public Schools seniors – representing all BCPS high schools – will be honored for their excellence in completing Career and Technology Education programs. In addition, five of these students will be awarded Anthony G. Marchione Scholarships. Dr. Dallas Dance, BCPS superintendent, and Dr. Anthony Marchione, former BCPS superintendent, will be among those participating in the ceremony. The event will also feature remarks from a 2011 graduate and Marchione scholarship winner, Matt Henricks. When: 6-9 p.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2014 Where: Chesapeake High School 1801 Turkey Point Road Baltimore, MD 21221Background: The students being recognized are those who demonstrated excellence in their Career and Technology Education programs, which include Business Education, School to Career Transition, Family and Consumer Sciences, Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC), Technology Education and Technical Programs. Virtually all of the programs are aligned with courses of study at the Community College of Baltimore County, and many students graduate eligible for as many as 23 free credits at the college.
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Gunpowder Elementary educator Anne Cross chosen as 2014-15 BCPS Teacher of the Year: Norwood Elementary’s Pat Goldys chosen BCPS Principal of Year

May 5, 2014, 3:52 pm
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TOWSON, MD. – Anne Cross, a veteran 31-year educator who teaches Grade 5 at Gunpowder Elementary School in Perry Hall, is Baltimore County’s new Teacher of the Year. Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dallas Dance named Cross the 2014-2015 Baltimore County Teacher of the Year during a ceremony today at Loch Raven High School in Towson. “Anne Cross is a passionate, dedicated teacher who, in her fourth decade as an educator, still brings excitement and a love of learning to her students every day,” Dr. Dance said. “She reminds us that great teaching is timeless and that a committed teacher can reach children just as effectively after 30 years as she can in her first year. When she says, ‘We’re not done yet,’ we are all inspired. Congratulations to her and to all of our 120 nominated teachers and finalists.” At the same ceremony, Dr. Dance also named Patrice Goldys, principal at Norwood Elementary School in Dundalk, as the school system’s 2014-15 Principal of the Year. A principal at Norwood since 2004 and at Villa Cresta Elementary School in Parkville from 1995-2004, Goldys began her career as a BCPS teacher in 1980 at Sandy Plains Elementary School in Dundalk. She is a National Board Certified Principal and an alumna of Towson University, where she has earned both a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and a master’s degree in elementary education. “The enthusiasm that Pat Goldys brings to her work is infectious,” Dr. Dance said. “Just walking through her school gives you a sense of the focus, dedication, and joy in learning that goes on every day at Norwood Elementary School thanks to Pat’s leadership and vision. We are proud to have her and all of our nominated principals serving the children of Baltimore County Public Schools.” Four other BCPS principals were finalists for the Principal of the Year honor: Doug Elmendorf of Chase Elementary School, Andrew Last of Hereford High School, Barbara McLennan of Dundalk Elementary School, and Sam Mustipher of New Town High School. As Baltimore County's newest Teacher of the Year, Cross becomes among both the most visible educators in the county and the most prominent in Maryland. Representing nearly 9,000 educators for the next year, she will compete for the honor of Maryland State Teacher of the Year and appear in dozens of venues to champion teaching and the school system. In addition to teaching fifth-graders, Cross is a Eucharistic minister and is active in the Epilepsy Foundation of America and the Families with Children from Vietnam organization. She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and her master’s degree in elementary education from Towson University. She has taught at Gunpowder Elementary for 23 of her 31 years in education. “To me, becoming a teacher was not just a job; it was a vocation to serve. Now, nearly 40 years later, I realize that teaching is much more than my career; it is my identity,” Cross wrote in her application for Teacher of the Year. “It has always been important to me to continue growing, changing, and evolving. Without that, we become stale and life becomes tedious. I find new techniques, curriculum, and methods an exciting challenge. I love working with new children every year. There is no greater joy or responsibility.” In addition to Cross, four other finalists were honored during Monday’s ceremony. They are:
  • Adam Carney, an English teacher and AP instructional coordinator at New Town High School in Owings Mills;
  • Kimberly Culbertson, a chemistry and forensic science teacher at Dulaney High School in Timonium;
  • Julie Krause, a Grade 1 teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School in Middle River; and
  • Michelle Webster, a reading specialist at Woodholme Elementary School in Pikesville.
"The four teachers we honor today as finalists represent the best of what we want in our teachers in Baltimore County schools,” said Dr. Dance. “They are talented motivators and experienced learners. They model what it means to achieve, hone, and pursue 21st century skills and talents. And they care deeply about the children they teach. They are models we hold up when we talk about teachers in Baltimore County’s schools.” The Teacher of the Year receives a variety of awards and gifts from the school system and Baltimore County's business community, including a $1,000 gift for classroom supplies and technology, a $1,000 cash award, 40-inch flat-screen television, laptop computer and a personalized iPad, memberships to fitness centers and nature centers, tickets to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and Baltimore Orioles, 50 free books, $500 in school library resources, and gift certificates to a spa, restaurants, movie showings, and health screenings. The BCPS Teacher of the Year program thanks sponsors NTA Life and the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools as well as donors including the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Bluestone Restaurant, Brick Bodies, Cunningham’s Restaurant, Discovery Education, Hewlett-Packard, Irvine Nature Center, St. Agnes Hospital, The Cheesecake Factory, and Ukazoo Books.
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BCPS superintendent, County Executive to kick off “Clean Green” campaign to clean up county: Schools can benefit from anti-littering projects

May 6, 2014, 1:34 pm
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What: BCPS Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance and Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz will join forces to kick off a new effort to clean up Baltimore County communities called “Team BCPS Clean Green 15.” The anti-litter initiative is designed to encourage BCPS schools and community organizations to conduct litter clean-ups and beautification projects with the incentives of potentially receiving environmental grants as prizes. Through the program, BCPS schools and their community supporters will compete from May 8 through the end of June to sponsor the most “Clean Green” 15-minute litter clean-ups. Community groups may include school-based groups, places of worship, youth groups, civic or community groups, scout troops, sport teams, or other organizations who wish to help clean up their school community. When: 1 – 1:45 p.m., Thursday, May 8 Where:Lutherville Laboratory Elementary School 1700 York Road Lutherville, MD 21093Background: Through the initiative, participating groups can register their “Clean Green” 15-minute event on the BCPS website and designate which BCPS school will be credited with their project. Environmental grants from the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools will be awarded to schools based on the clean-up activities credited to them as well as other anti-litter education and outreach efforts. Grants range from the $4,000 grand prize award to $2,000 grants for first prize winners on the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Second-place winners will receive STEM resource enrichment education conducted by Hot Spots Extended Care Programs, Inc. Grants are to be used for school-based instruction that emphasizes the theme of environmental literacy. Sponsors include Comcast, Hot Spots, the Maryland Environmental Service, and the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability.
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Winners announced from fourth annual BCPS Chess Championship

May 7, 2014, 8:48 am
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TOWSON, MD—Thirty students and nine teams received trophies as the top competitors in Baltimore County Public Schools’ fourth annual systemwide Chess Championship, held Saturday, April 26, at Cockeysville Middle School. More than 190 students from 43 schools participated. Top-ranked Individual WinnersHigh School Division 1. Nathaniel Huynh, Dulaney 2. Kiran Kokilepersaud, Eastern Tech 3. Steven Zhang, Dulaney 4. Avi Khan, Towson 5. Steven Han, Dulaney 6. Eitan Borgina, Towson 7. YiYi Kuang, Dulaney 8. Alianah deCastro, PikesvilleMiddle School Division 1. Harshil Patel, Cockeysville 2. Joseph Tarantin, Cockeysville 3. Gage Flannery, Stemmers Run 4. Ryan Anton, Cockeysville 5. Cameron Gray, Loch Raven 6. Sangmin Woo, Cockeysville 7. Maverick Irwin, Perry Hall 8. Tyler Thornton, DumbartonElementary School Division 1. Ady Yang, Joppa View 2. John Ayhon, Essex 3. Ryan Huang, Sparks 4. Jake Frey, Stoneleigh 5. Christopher Ray, Gunpowder 6. Michael Stamatos, Stoneleigh 7. Thomas Rosati, Cromwell Valley 8. Joshua Cunningham, OremsTop-unranked individual winnersHigh School Division 1. Aldrin deCastro, Pikesville 2. Benedict Mondal, Towson Middle School Division 1. Nicholas Banister, Ridgely 2. Edward Horn, LansdowneElementary School Division 1. Lam Dinh, Essex 2. James Esaw, Wellwood InternationalTeam competition In the high school team competition, Dulaney’s team, comprised of Rex Ledesma, Steven Zhang, Steven Han, Nathaniel Huynh and YiYi Kuang, came in first for the third year in a row. Taking second place was the Towson team of Avi Khan, Eitan Borgina, Benedict Mondal, JP Hutch and James Desantis. Pikesville’s team placed third. Its members are Alianah deCastro, Aldrin deCastro, Neshia Gasque, Treyvon McClinton and Ilan Vaiman. At the middle school level, Cockeysville’s team ranked first for the fourth year in a row. Its members are Joseph Tarantin, Harshil Patel, Ryan Anton, Sangmin Woo and Gokul Natarajan. Ridgely’s team, with members Alyssa Sabellano, Anthony Granruth, Phillip Bramcucci, Nicholas Banister and Rene Alibritton, placed second. In third place was Dumbarton with team members Tyler Thornton, Erik Libao, Calvin Brauer, Leo Sheingate and Kyle Sulkowski. Stoneleigh’s team placed first at the elementary school level for the second time, with members Sean Christensen, Howard Fang, Daniel Melia, Michael Stamatos and Jake Frey. Ranked second was the Joppa View team of Ady Yang, Jihong Min, Sam Krisher, Jessica Simanjuntak and Kelly Krack. Coming in third was the Essex team, comprised of John Ayhon, Nathan Popp, Lam Dinh, Connor Stahl and Jayden Owens. Schools that participated in the tournament were Chatsworth, Cromwell Valley, Essex, Gunpowder, Joppa View, Orems, Powhatan, Shady Springs, Sparks, Stoneleigh, Timonium and Wellwood International elementary schools; Arbutus, Catonsville, Cockeysville, Crossroads Center, Dumbarton, Hereford, Lansdowne, Loch Raven Technical Academy, Old Court, Parkville, Perry Hall, Ridgely, Sparrows Point and Stemmers Run middle schools; and Chesapeake, Crossroads Center, Dulaney, Dundalk, Eastern Technical, Franklin, Hereford, Loch Raven, Milford Mill Academy, Owings Mills, Parkville, Pikesville, Randallstown, Towson, Western Technical and Woodlawn high schools.
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BCPS News Tips: May 10 – 17, 2014: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools

May 9, 2014, 7:21 am
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Saturday, May 10
BCPS to host 11th annual countywide STEM Fair
What: Baltimore County Public Schools elementary students from across the school district will present their science projects during the 11th annual BCPS Elementary Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Fair. When: 8 a.m., Saturday, May 10. 12:30 p.m. awards ceremony for projects.Where: Parkville High School, 2600 Putty Hill Rd., Parkville 21234Contact: Eric Cromwell, 410.887.2063
Monday, May 12
Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce honors teachers at 28th annual Awards for Excellence
What: Baltimore County Public Schools teachers from across the county will be honored for their talents and commitment to students at the 28th annual Awards for Excellence in Education gala presented by the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce. Winners of the awards will represent elementary, middle and high school grade levels, the school system's five geographic areas, special education and special academic areas. One winner will be named recipient of the Berenbach Educational Incentives Fund Award. When: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Monday, May 12 Where: Martin's West, 6817 Dogwood Rd., Woodlawn 21244Contact: Lauren Taylor, 410.825.6200
Wednesday, May 14
Seniors celebrate completion of AVID program in BCPS
What: During a special ceremony, 410 Baltimore County Public Schools high school seniors from 22 high schools will be honored for their successful completion of the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program. BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance will be the keynote speaker at this celebration. The preliminary college acceptance rate for these students is 99.8 percent.When: 7 – 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 14 Where: UMBC, Retriever Athletic Center, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Catonsville 21250Contact: Christian Anderson, 410.887.3971
Winand Elementary School hosts school's first "Music and Art Night"
What: Winand Elementary School will host its first ever "Music and Art Night" featuring performances from the school's band and orchestra and an opportunity to learn about art from around the world through a variety of stations, arts and crafts, and food. The event also will highlight a faculty and staff art show.When: 6 p.m., Wednesday, May 14Where: Winand Elementary School, 8301 Scotts Level Rd., Randallstown 21208 Contact: Ben Green or Fiona Coulter, 410.887.0763
Thursday, May 15
Annual BCPS Scholarships to be presented
What: Four graduating BCPS seniors who plan to pursue careers in education will be honored at a ceremony to present them with BCPS Scholarship Loans. The BCPS Scholarship Loan Program awards renewable annual scholarship loans of $4,000 each to students who plan to study and teach secondary math, science, special education and technology education. After earning a degree from an approved Maryland teacher education program, the scholarship loan recipients are required to teach in BCPS – one year of service for each year of the award. When: 5 p.m., Thursday, May 15Where: E Building on the Greenwood Administrative Campus, 6901 Charles St., Towson 21204 Contact: Joelle Skorczewski, 410.887.2945
2014 Annual Spring Concert scheduled for Woodlawn High School
What: Woodlawn High School's music department will present its annual spring concert with performances by the concert band and concert choir. The band and choir performances will include spirituals, classical selections, and contemporary songs. Admission to the concert is $5, and it is open to the public. When: 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 15 Where: Woodlawn High School, 1801 Woodlawn Dr., Woodlawn 21207Contact: Robert Holland, 410.887.1309 or rholland3@bcps.org
Friday, May 16
Baltimore County Student Councils to hold annual bull roast and recognition
What: About 215 secondary students, advisors, administrators and Board of Education members will recognize outgoing Baltimore County Student Councils Executive Board members, outstanding student council advisors and special activity advisors at the annual end-of-year BCSC Bull Roast/Recognition. Winners of the 2013-2014 BCSC Advisor of the Year and Principal of the Year awards will be announced. Also, two college-bound seniors will each receive a BCSC scholarship. When: 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Friday, May 16 Where: Oregon Ridge Park, 13555 Beaver Dam Rd, Cockeysville 21030Contact: Sean Patterson, 410.887.4329
MSDE's 7th annual Parent Involvement Matters Awards to be announced at Eastern Technical High School
What: The Parent Involvement Matters Awards is an annual event sponsored by the Maryland State Department of Education to highlight parents who have made major contributions to public education in Maryland. Local superintendents, school administrators, elected officials, state and local dignitaries, including BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance, will be in attendance. When: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday, May 16Where: Eastern Technical High School, 1100 Mace Ave., Essex 21221Contact: Maureen Moran, 410.767.0477
Saturday, May 17
BCPS students, teachers begin 2-month exchange trip to China
What: Thirty-three BCPS students and teachers from eight BCPS high schools begin the capstone experience to the school system's Chinese language students as they depart Baltimore County for a two-month visit to Xi'an, China. The full-immersion experience in Chinese language and culture is part of the BCPS preparation for our students to compete globally and to gain fluency in Mandarin Chinese. When: Students and chaperones departs for China at 8:30 a.m.Where: E Building parking lot, Greenwood campus, 6901 N. Charles St., TowsonContact: Debbie Wilson-Matusky, 410.887.6756
Western School of Technology hosts first Magnet Craft Fair
What: The first ever Magnet Craft Fair at Western School of Technology will feature student demonstrations, displays, artwork and a variety of local craft vendors, as well as other artisans offering unique crafts, homemade soaps, lotions, stationery and greeting cards. Western cosmetology students will offer unique nail designs, face painting and hair braiding, while health science students will demonstrate CPR and a variety of other health care skills and techniques throughout the day. Student artwork will be on display and available for sale, and students in the school's culinary program will offer food and beverages for sale during the event. When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday, May 17 Where: Western School of Technology and Environmental Science, 100 Kenwood Ave., Catonsville 21228 Contact: Lisa Christhilf, 410.887.0840
Pinewood Elementary School sponsors its PTA's Community Spring Carnival
What: As a way of celebrating a sense of community among schools along the York Road corridor, Pinewood Elementary School will sponsor a Community Spring Carnival featuring rides, games, prizes, music, a dunking booth, cake walk, and food vendors. All local elementary school students are invited to attend, and unlimited ride and game bands or individual tickets may be purchased on the day of the event. When: 12 noon – 4 p.m., Saturday, May 17 Where: Maryland Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Timonium, MD 21093Contact: Helen Stuart, 410.887.7663
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BCPS superintendent named to international educational technology board

May 13, 2014, 8:03 am
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TOWSON, MD. – Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent S. Dallas Dance has been named to the 12-member board of directors for the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Dr. Dance, one of two new members on the group’s board, said he looks forward to sharing ideas related to the blending of technology and education. “With more than 100,000 education stakeholders, ISTE is an important organization in the discussion over how best to incorporate technology into the classroom,” Dr. Dance said. “To be part of that discussion -- especially in light of our S.T.A.T. digital conversion initiative in BCPS – and to be among those driving the direction of this organization is an honor for which I am appreciative.” “Having tremendous talent and trusted leadership on the ISTE board is a terrific catalyst for continuing to move ISTE toward achieving our mission,” said Kecia Ray, chair of the ISTE Board of Directors and executive director of learning technology for the Nashville, Tenn., school system. “Each of our board members has unique insights, experiences and knowledge that will help shape our organization moving forward.” The next meeting of the ISTE board is scheduled for late June in Atlanta. The organization is an influential nonprofit serving educators and education leaders committed to empowering connected learners in a connected world. The group developed the widely adopted ISTE Standards for learning, teaching and leading in the digital age as well as a suite of professional learning resources including webinars, online courses, books, and peer-reviewed journals and publications. For more information, visit www.iste.org.
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Board of Education of Baltimore County to Meet on Tuesday, May 20, 2014

May 14, 2014, 2:00 pm
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TOWSON, MD. - The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a work session on Tuesday, May 20, 2014. Board work sessions are held for receiving reports, conducting in-depth reviews of school programs(s), and developing and discussing Board Policy. The Board’s Building and Contracts Committee will meet at approximately 4 p.m. The full Board will meet in open session at approximately 5 p.m. to discuss upcoming school board association events, school system and community meetings, and items of interest to Board members. The Board will then move immediately to a closed session. The Board will reconvene at approximately 6:30 p.m. for its work session. Representatives of stakeholder groups and members of the public have the opportunity to speak at Board work sessions. Stakeholder group representatives and members of the public who wish to address the Board are asked to sign up between 5 p.m. and 6:25 p.m. outside of the Board’s meeting room. The school system is committed to accessible communication with its stakeholders. To that end, the Board of Education meetings are live-streamed and can be viewed on the BCPS Web site (www.bcps.org). The meeting(s) will be held in Building E, Room 114, on the Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, Towson. The public is welcome to attend and observe all of the Board’s open sessions.
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BCPS to award scholarship loans to encourage students to become educators

May 15, 2014, 5:56 am
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What: Baltimore County Public Schools will present BCPS Scholarship Loans to four graduating seniors and aspiring teachers. The BCPS Scholarship Loan Program awards renewable annual scholarship loans of $4,000 each to students who plan to study and teach secondary math, science, special education and technology education. After earning a degree from an approved Maryland teacher education program, the scholarship loan recipients are required to teach in BCPS – one year of service for each year of the award. When: 5 p.m., Thursday, May 15, 2014 Where: Baltimore County Public Schools, Greenwood Campus Educational Support Services (ESS) Building 6901 N. Charles Street Towson, MD 21204Background: The Baltimore County Public Schools Scholarship Loan Program was initiated during the 2006-2007 school year. Now employed as teachers in BCPS are several past scholarship loan recipients, including Mariah Voelkel at New Town High School, Sarah Starkey at Dundalk High School, and brother-sister team of Meghan Goff at Franklin High School and her brother Ryan Goff at Eastern Technical High School..
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