TOWSON – Thanks to a snowy, icy winter that resulted in too many shortened or weather-closed school days, Baltimore County Public Schools will add a half day to the calendar for students on Thursday, April 2, 2015.
The Board of Education of Baltimore County on Tuesday approved changing the school system’s calendar to make April 2 – which had been a day off for students and a professional development day for teacher – into a half day of school classes.
BCPS sets aside seven days for inclement weather each school year. But this year, because of both days off for snow as well as a series of late openings and early closings due to the weather, the system fell short of the hours required by state law for schools to be open.
To see the revised school system calendar, please visit the BCPS Web site at http://www.bcps.org/calendars/.
↧
BCPS adds a half day to calendar to make up for snow closings: Thursday, April 2, is now a half-day for students
↧
Independent report finds S.T.A.T. transformation underway: Early evidence of Lighthouse transition
TOWSON, MD. – Early results from a preliminary evaluation of the BCPS initiative to create effective digital classrooms show that changes in teaching and learning are starting to emerge, according to the Center for Research and Reform in Education at Johns Hopkins University.
Ten Lighthouse schools are piloting 1:1 student learning as test sites for S.T.A.T., or “Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow.” S.T.A.T. is the multi-year transformation of teaching and learning to emphasize critical thinking and analytical skills with the meaningful use of technology.
Researchers analyzed Lighthouse classroom observations, survey results, and digital content usage for early evidence of the impact of S.T.A.T. professional development on classroom environments, student engagement, and teacher practices.
Preliminary findings were presented during the March 17, 2015, meeting of the Board of Education of Baltimore County, including the following:
- Teachers in both Lighthouse and non-Lighthouse schools reported that S.T.A.T. teachers, school-based professional development experts at all schools, provide a variety of beneficial supports.
- Lighthouse wall displays and room arrangements are consistent with the structure envisioned by S.T.A.T. Supportive content is displayed, desks are arranged to support flexible grouping, and multiple learning areas are available.
- Higher-level questioning techniques are commonly used by Lighthouse teachers to prompt deeper thinking from students.
- Lighthouse teachers use the BCPS One information portal to access digital content substantially more often than non-Lighthouse teachers.
- Lighthouse students use digital tools more often than other students.
↧
↧
BCPS News Tips: March 21 – 28, 2015: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools
Saturday, March 21
Musical “Legally Blonde” underway at Franklin High School
What: Franklin High School presents “Legally Blonde – The Musical” for two weekends of shows. “Legally Blonde” tells the story of sorority president Elle Woods as she crosses the country on a mission to find love at Harvard Law School and uses the law and her new found skills to defend a workout-queen accused of murder. Tickets are $8 in advance or for students and $10 at the door and may be purchased at www.franklinhighdrama.weebly.com.When: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, and 7 p.m. nightly from Thursday, March 26, through Saturday, March 28Where: Franklin High School, 12000 Reisterstown Rd., Reisterstown 21136Contact: Kelly Boyd, 410.887.1119Thursday, March 26
BCPS student among those recognized by Baltimore County Commission for Women
What: The Baltimore County Commission for Women will recognize three outstanding women during its 33rd annual Woman of the Year Awards Ceremony, including Alejandra Mora, a senior at Catonsville High School who has championed immigrant education opportunities.When: 6 p.m., Thursday, March 26Where: 7 West Bistro, 7 West Chesapeake Ave., Towson 21204Contact: William Heiser, 410.887.0808“The Wiz” set to entertain at Parkville High School
What: The Parkville High School Performing Arts Department is hosting “The Wiz” musical for two nights only. Visitors are invited to travel with Dorothy as she journeys on an interesting trip and is intercepted by a Lion, a Scarecrow, and a Tin Man on her way to Oz. Tickets are $5 at the door.When: 7 p.m. on both Thursday, March 26, and Saturday, March 28Where: Parkville High School, 2600 Putty Hill Ave., Parkville 21234Contact: Sharon Harris, 410.887.5257Friday, March 27
Grade 5 students at Pinewood Elementary School bring weeklong ballroom dancing class to a graceful close
What: After a week of ballroom dancing instruction during their daily physical education periods this week, Grade 5 students from Pinewood Elementary School will culminate their classes by “cutting the rug” for family and friends during a ballroom dancing “grand finale” demonstration.When: Friday, March 27 – Please contact the school for specific times
Where: Pinewood Elementary School, 200 Rickswood Rd., Timonium 21093Contact: Patricia Pilson, 410.887.7663Catonsville High School Steel Drum Band to collaborate with guest artist Ken “Professor” Philmore in “Pan Ecstasy” concert
What: The Catonsville High School Steel Drum Band and guest artist Ken “Professor” Philmore will present “Pan Ecstasy,” a concert that will feature the band and Trinidadian steel pan virtuoso and arranger Ken “Professor” Philmore. The concert will be held in the school’s auditorium, and tickets are $10 and $5 for students and senior citizens.When: 7 p.m., Friday, March 27Where: Catonsville High School, 421 Bloombury Rd., Catonsville 21228Contact: James Wharton, 410.887.0808Saturday, March 28
M&T Bank 24 Tournament tests math skills of BCPS elementary, middle school students
What: M&T Bank once again sponsors Baltimore County students in Grades 5-8 in the daylong 24 Challenge® Tournament. The annual event pits school teams against one another in a challenge of solving mathematical puzzles involving single-digit and double-digit numbers and integers.
When: 9 a.m., Saturday, March 28Where: Radisson Hotel North Baltimore (formerly North Baltimore or Crowne Plaza), 2400 Greenspring Dr., Timonium 21093Contact: Jenn Henschen, 410.887.4052In its second year, Prom Bazaar offers dresses, tips to students
What: Perry Hall High School, in partnership with the AKA sorority, will host its second annual Prom Bazaar, where selected students can receive a free dress, accessories, and prom tips from professional make-up artists, fashion experts, and hairdressers.When: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Saturday, March 28
Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., Perry Hall 21236Contact: Kathleen Watkins, 410.887.5108
↧
Finalists named for 2015-16 Baltimore County Teacher of the Year: Winner to be announced during May 6 ceremony
TOWSON, MD. – Seven Baltimore County Public Schools educators have been named finalists for the school system’s annual Teacher of the Year award for 2015-2016.
“Our Teacher of the Year program each year shines a spotlight on some of the many talented and dedicated educators we have in abundance in Baltimore County Public Schools,” said Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “These seven finalists bring a professionalism and passion to each of their classrooms, and their students benefit from them daily. They are great examples of the kind of teachers we would want for our own children. We are delighted to honor them as representatives of the wonderful educators we have across Baltimore County.”
The finalists are:
- Ellen Beckstrom, an English Language Learners teacher at Reisterstown Elementary School in Reisterstown
- Kathryn Brave, an advanced academics resource teacher at Hernwood Elementary School in Randallstown
- Jessica Cybulski, a Grade 2 classroom teacher at Woodholme Elementary School in Pikesville
- Kathleen Davis, a Grade 6 mathematics teacher at Dundalk Middle School in Dundalk
- Samuel Georgieff, a visual arts teacher at Cockeysville Middle School in Cockeysville
- Orly Mondell, a social studies and government teacher at New Town High School in Owings Mills
- R. Christopher Rose, a performing arts teacher and director at Hereford High School in Parkton
↧
Kellogg Foundation grants $1.5 million to BCPS for equitable digital learning environments
TOWSON – The W.K. Kellogg Foundation has awarded a $1.5 million grant to Baltimore County Public Schools to help increase student achievement by providing all students with an effective, equitable digital learning environment.
The grant will help support the school system’s S.T.A.T. initiative, which in its first year has begun to provide personalized instruction to children through the blended use of technology in classrooms. It will also support staff development aimed at reducing academic achievement gaps through greater equity and cultural inclusion.
“We are pleased and grateful to have the Kellogg Foundation with us on this journey,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “As visionaries, they understand the importance of addressing not only the technological tools our students need but also the learning environment needed to nourish and prepare our students. By addressing the ways our children can succeed and grow as well as the conditions that inhibit that success and growth, we can ensure a student body prepared for the challenges and competition of the 21st century global marketplace.”
Founded in 1930 by breakfast cereal pioneer Will Keith Kellogg as an independent, private foundation, the Kellogg Foundation is among the largest philanthropic foundations in the nation. The Michigan-based foundation is guided by the belief that all children should have an equal opportunity to thrive and works with communities to create conditions for vulnerable children to realize their full potential in school, work, and life.
The foundation’s grant, which runs through October 2017, addresses a primary academic goal of the school system’s Blueprint 2.0 strategic plan to raise the academic bar and close achievement gaps “so that every student will become a globally competitive citizen in an culturally diverse world.”
↧
↧
Dance to address new ways to grow BCPS, educational opportunity at 3rd annual State of the Schools
What: The third annual State of the Schools event will feature BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance both celebrating the school system’s progress and detailing the next generation of ways BCPS will deepen and expand the educational experience and opportunities for students. Dr. Dance also will preview some results of the annual Stakeholder Satisfaction Survey and other progress benchmarks. In addition, the luncheon will highlight student voices, performances, and artistic talents throughout the event. State of the Schools is hosted by the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools in conjunction with Achievement/Excellence Sponsor Daly Computers and other business sponsors. The public is invited to watch the event via live-stream at www.stateoftheschools.org.
When: Wednesday, April 1, 2015, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
10:45 a.m. Doors open
11:15 a.m. Program begins
1:20 p.m. Keynote by Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance
Where: Martins West
6817 Dogwood Road
Windsor Mill, MD 21244
Contact: Media are invited and requested to RSVP by Monday, March 30, 2015, to:
Office of Communications
communications@bcps.org
Note for broadcast media: Live shots can be accommodated. Please include with your RSVP if you will be bringing equipment / vehicles for live broadcasting.
↧
Carver Center Middle School Writing Competition winners announced
TOWSON, MD. – Nine students have been recognized for their submissions to the 18th Annual Carver Center Middle School Writing Competition, sponsored and judged by the senior literary arts students at George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.
The honored students are:
Poetry 1st Place: Eleni Angelos, Hereford Middle School, A Pie on the Windowsill; sponsoring teacher: Victoria Vendramin2nd Place: Pinyu Pearl Hwang, Ridgely Middle School, Pieces of the Sea; sponsoring teacher: Amy Kephart3rd Place: Cecilia Clara Millan, Hereford Middle School, Cosmos; sponsoring teacher: Katherine GentFiction1st Place: Julia Lowman, Ridgely Middle School, Black Canvas; sponsoring teacher, Stephanie Fanshaw2nd Place: Destiny C. Jackson, General John Stricker Middle School, Candy; sponsoring teacher: Sarah Paul3rd Place: Jonathan Roa, Franklin Middle School, I Remember; sponsoring teacher:
Deana MunchowNonfiction1st Place: Anay Zaveri, Perry Hall Middle School, Hungry Eyes, Grateful Smiles; sponsoring teacher: Landon Friedman2nd Place: Emily Persinger, Ridgely Middle School, Life of a Vegetarian; sponsoring teacher: Joyce Baron3rd Place: William Reng, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, The Attractions (and Distractions) of Technology; sponsoring teacher: Katie Field
Each submission was adjudicated using a blind scoring system, and winners were selected based on voice, originality, diction, structure, and content.
Competition winners will be honored at a ceremony on Monday, April 20, from 6-8 p.m., in the Carver Center’s dining hall. Prizes, provided by the Carver Center Foundation, include Nook e-readers for first place winners and gift cards to Barnes & Noble.
↧
BCPS News Tips: March 28 – April 4, 2015: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools
Saturday, March 28
M&T Bank 24 Challenge® Tournament tests math skills of BCPS elementary, middle school students
What: M&T Bank once again sponsors Baltimore County students in Grades 5-8 in the daylong 24 Challenge® Tournament. The annual event pits school teams against one another in a challenge of solving mathematical puzzles involving single-digit and double-digit numbers and integers.
When: 9 a.m., Saturday, March 28Where: Radisson Hotel North Baltimore (formerly North Baltimore or Crowne Plaza), 2400 Greenspring Dr., Timonium 21093Contact: Jenn Henschen, 410.887.4052In its second year, Prom Bazaar offers dresses, tips to students
What: Perry Hall High School, in partnership with the AKA sorority, will host its second annual Prom Bazaar, where selected students can receive a free dress, accessories, and prom tips from professional make-up artists, fashion experts, and hairdressers. When: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Saturday, March 28
Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., Perry Hall 21236Contact: Kathleen Watkins, 410.887.5108Sunday, March 29
Dundalk High School to host the second annual Dundalk Challenge 5K
What: Plenty of runners are expected to kick off the second annual Dundalk Challenge 5-kilometer race, which begins at the Community College of Baltimore County–Dundalk and ends at Dundalk High School. The event is an opportunity to learn about and support Dundalk High School and the Dundalk community. All funds raised through registration and sponsorship benefit the school’s PTSA prom after-party fund and other PTSA programs. For more information, please visit www.DundalkChallenge.org. When: 8:30 a.m., Sunday, March 29Where: CCBC-Dundalk Entrance, 7200 Sollers Point Rd., Dundalk 21222Contact: Paul Rosenberger, 410.262.5410 Monday, March 30
Sing along with Pinewood Elementary School’s debut production of “On The Radio” musical
What: The Penguin Theatre at Pinewood Elementary School will debut “On The Radio,” a musical production featuring children from Grades 1-5 that takes its audience into KYDZ radio and the musical stylings of Marvelous Mike and Jivin’ Judy as they travel through time via the music of the Depression, World War II, Elvis and the rise of rock and roll, the Beatles, and disco. Tickets are $5 at the door.
When: 6 p.m. both Monday, March 30, and Tuesday, March 31Where: Pinewood Elementary School, 200 Rickswood Rd., Timonium 21093 Contact: Helen Stuart or Franchesca Brown, 410.887.7663Family Reading Night and Pep Rally to be held at Fort Garrison Elementary School
What: The Fort Garrison Elementary School community will celebrate the love of reading by kicking off with a “Tailgate Dinner” followed by a Family Reading Night Pep Rally. Participants will be able to use technology and reading during interactive sessions, and students and their families can create a family QR code, make a Family Symbaloo, create and share a hilarious story on Padlet, and have “Sticky Fun” by using sticky notes to interact with books to make reading even more meaningful and enjoyable.
When: 5:30 – 7:45 p.m., Monday, March 30
Where: Fort Garrison Elementary School, 3310 Woodvalley Dr., Pikesville 21208Contact: Stacy Crain, 410.887.1203Tuesday, March 31
“Ooh!” Then “Yum!” Catonsville High School hosts 21st annual Edible Art Show
What: For those seeking to sate both their gustatory and artistic palates, Catonsville High School will host its 21st annual Edible Art Show in – where else? – the school cafeteria. Students and members of the community are invited to submit edible art for judging in the categories of elementary, middle, and high school/community. Entries, which are to be not only creative but 100 percent edible, will be consumed following the judging and awards ceremony. Admission is $1 to support the school’s National Art Honor Society or a canned food item to be donated to the Maryland Food Bank.
When: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. for judging; 7:15 p.m. for awards ceremony; 7:45 for feast, all Tuesday, March 31
Where: Catonsville High School, 421 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville 21228 Contact: Windy Spiridigliozzi, 410.887.0808Riderwood Elementary School to host parent information night detailing educational trends in math and reading
What: Riderwood Elementary School will host a parent information night that will include a presentation on current educational shifts in mathematics and reading as well as break-out sessions on a variety of topics. The BCPS Parentmobile also will be on hand to provide information and publications relating to educational opportunities in BCPS and the region. When: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 31
Where: Riderwood Elementary School, 1711 Landrake Rd., Towson 21204Contact: Linda Miller or Kathy DeHart, 410.887.3568Wednesday, April 1
BCPS superintendent to detail school system progress, next steps for student success at 3rd annual State of the Schools Luncheon
What: BCPS Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance will detail both progress for Baltimore County Public Schools as well as the new ways that BCPS will expand student success and educational opportunities at the system’s third annual State of the Schools luncheon. The event also will feature student performances, art displays, and the voices of BCPS students. The event will be live-streamed at www.stateoftheschools.org. When: 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 1Where: Martin’s West, 6817 Dogwood Rd., Windsor Mill 21244
Contact: Office of Communications, 410.887.5908 or communications@bcps.orgBattle Monument School plans tree-planting event
What: In conjunction with the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability, Battle Monument School has been given 88 trees to plant on its Dundalk campus as well as installation of a “sensory garden” containing a variety of plants and tree species. The school will have a full-day event beginning with an assembly that will include staff from Marshy Point State Park who will bring several animals for students to learn about and see. Grade 5 students from nearby Charlesmont Elementary School will also assist in the tree planting.
When: 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 1Where: Battle Monument School, 7801 E. Collingham Dr., Dundalk 21222 Contact: Jerry Easterly, 410.887.7000Parkville High School to promote autism awareness with second annual awareness day
What: To observe World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, Parkville High School will host its second annual day of activities and pride as the school community seeks to spotlight autism and ways to raise awareness. Students and staff will be encouraged to wear special t-shirts for the day, and the school will sport signage created by the school’s program that supports students on the autism spectrum. The school already has raised more than $1,000 to donate to The Autism Society of Bethesda, Md.
When: All day; contact the school for specific event timesWhere: Parkville High School, 2600 Putty Hill Ave., Parkville 21234Contact: Kelly Reardon or Matthew Ames, 410.887.5284
↧
Dance to announce new ways to grow BCPS, educational opportunity at 3rd annual State of the Schools
What: The third annual State of the Schools event will feature BCPSSuperintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance both celebrating the school system’s progress and detailing the next generation of ways BCPS will deepen and expand the educational experience and opportunities for students. Dr. Dance also will announce the first results of the annual Stakeholder Satisfaction Survey and other progress benchmarks. In addition, the luncheon will highlight student voices, performances, and artistic talents throughout the event. State of the Schools is hosted by the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools in conjunction with Achievement/Excellence Sponsor Daly Computers and other business sponsors. The public is invited to watch the event via live-stream at www.stateoftheschools.org.When: Wednesday, April 1, 2015, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
10:45 a.m. Doors open
11:15 a.m. Program begins
1:20 p.m. Keynote by Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance
Where: Martins West
6817 Dogwood Road
Windsor Mill, MD 21244
↧
↧
Stories to tell – BCPS Superintendent stresses student-centered learning as focus for school system: Direction outlined during 3rd annual State of the Schools address
TOWSON, MD—Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance had a story to tell Wednesday afternoon during the third annual State of the Schools address at Martins West.
In fact, he had many stories to tell.
During his address to more than 1,000 county, state, and national educators, elected and business leaders, and students and parents, he talked of directing the energies and focus of Team BCPS on meeting the unique educational needs of every student across the academic spectrum.
“Every student has his or her own story, including the young people we have heard from today,” Dance said, reflecting the gala’s theme of “Our Schools, Our Students, and Our Stories.” “Together, these stories are reflected in the progress we’re making toward graduating every student globally competitive.”
With its new academic initiatives on solid footing, BCPS has plenty of backing to move forward, Dance said. Announcing details of the latest BCPS Stakeholder Survey, Dance said more than 74,000 responded to the survey this year – 85 percent more than the 44,000 who participated in 2014. Strong majorities of the 9,600 parent responses rated as effective both their child’s school (91 percent) and the school system (87 percent, up from 80 percent last year).
Yet while stakeholders generally approve of the school system’s direction and the job it is doing, Dr. Dance told State of the Schools attendees that more can and should be done to ensure that every BCPS graduate is globally competitive.
“This information is validation that we’re on the right track, and while we must pause to celebrate our successes, we must not forget that there is certainly much more work to be done,” Dance said.
Dance said much of that work would be centered around establishing greater equity for students and more student resources. Increasing access to opportunity, he said, is crucial if all students are to succeed, and he cited a recent $1.5 million grant from the Kellogg Foundation to BCPS as an example of how resources will be used to address equity issues.
“We’re directing these resources at closing the achievement gap because we need every student to grow every year toward college and career readiness, whether the student starts below grade level, on grade level, or above grade level,” he said. “A deliberate focus on equity takes courage but is clearly the right thing to do.”
Again sounding the importance of student voices, Dance told State of the Schools guests about the system’s move to learner-centered environments. Launched this school year, the learner-centered environment personalizes the learning experience and represent a “fundamental and cultural shift in the roles and expectations for each teacher and student,” Dance said.
“The fundamental question we must ask ourselves is, ‘Who owns the classroom?’ In BCPS, we want our nearly 110,000 students to own our classrooms,” he said.
Key to a learner-centered classroom is S.T.A.T., Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow, which Dance said would set a path toward graduating students globally competitive by making sure that each has access to an effective, digital learning environment by the 2017-2018 school year.
He also noted the success of the system’s Second Language Acquisition program, which also began this school year. “According to the Institute for International Education, if an individual is able to speak English, Spanish, and Chinese by 2020, he or she will be able to participate in 90 percent of the world’s economy,” he said. “Therefore, it is imperative that we continue providing (that) opportunity.
“Looking ahead,” Dance added, “imagine the many stories that will be told by our students once given the opportunity (through Second Language Acquisition).”
Dance also touched on several other ways BCPS is responding to student needs, including additional Grade 9 supports and resources to increase graduation rates,
more hands-on, responsive, and intensive teacher training, and broadband and wireless in every school for faster Internet speeds and greater online capacity.
“It still amazes me that there is Wi-Fi at Starbucks and McDonalds, but not in all of the classrooms across our great country,” he said.
“I never take for granted how critical it is for each of us – students, families, community members, leaders, and staff – to do our part to prepare students for success in the future and to continue working together as a team,” he added.
“That’s why I fundamentally believe our story is resonating with so many people – our deliberate focus on the culture of teamwork. Together, we can and will continue doing amazing work for our schools and our students so that they can continue realizing their stories.”
Befitting the theme of the day, the event celebrated the talents and achievements of Baltimore County’s school students, including creative student artwork throughout the event and dance, instrumental, and vocal performances from students across Baltimore County.
In addition to guests, viewers at home or in their offices also tuned in via live-stream at www.stateoftheschools.org. The complete archived video can be seen at www.BCPS.org or on BCPS-TV, available on Comcast cable channel 73 or Verizon FiOS channel 34.
The Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools hosted the event in conjunction with more than 50 business sponsors. Daly Computers was the event’s Achievement/Excellence sponsor.
↧
BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance releases statement regarding proposed county budget
TOWSON – The following is a statement released by BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance in reference to the budget allocations recommended today by Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz:
"Once again, County Executive Kamenetz has shown his commitment to Baltimore County Public Schools. The executive's operating and capital budgets outline his support of the academic initiatives and facilities needs we outlined in our proposed budget. Our partnership has never been stronger and I appreciate the executive and his staff for the ongoing collaboration in making Team BCPS the best school system in the country."
↧
Enrollment open for BCPS annual Summer Instrumental Music Camp : Camp offers students a unique musical experience
TOWSON, MD— Baltimore County Public Schools’ Office of Music and Dance Education is accepting applications – now through May 2 – for the 2015 Summer Instrumental Music Camp, to be held at Perry Hall High School from Tuesday, June 23, 2015, to Wednesday, July 1, 2015.
Students participating in the day camp, which will operate weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1:50 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. All of the musical ensembles will perform in a public concert in the outdoor amphitheater at Oregon Ridge Park, the summer home of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, on the evening of Wednesday, July 1, 2015.
The camp is open to BCPS students who are in Grades 5-12 and enrolled in their school’s instrumental music program. No audition is required. Cost of participation in the camp (including a camp T-shirt) is $200.
Transportation to and from Perry Hall High 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, Kenwood, Loch Raven, Parkville, and Patapsco high schools and Arbutus, Catonsville, Cockeysville, Deep Creek, Deer Park, Dumbarton, Franklin, Golden Ring, Hereford, Middle River, Pikesville, Pine Grove, Ridgely, and Southwest Academy 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 Grades 5-12 instrumental teacher 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 15. 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.
↧
BCPS accepting applications for Summer Visual Arts Enrichment Program : Program offers instruction, studio sessions, and field trips
TOWSON, MD— Baltimore County Public Schools’ Summer Visual Arts Enrichment Program is accepting applications for its 2015 session, to be hosted at Perry Hall High School.
From Monday, July 6, 2015, through Friday, July 17, 2015, the program will provide students in Grades 3-12 an opportunity to develop and refine personal art skills via five-hour studio sessions and an art-related field trip. Each program day will run from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. On the evening of Thursday, July 16, 2015, the program will hold an open house/reception, where students will exhibit works completed over the two-week period for viewing by families and teachers.
The program offers three courses: An Exploration of Artists and Their Materials for students entering Grades 3-5, An Exploration of New Art Forms and Materials for students entering Grades 6-8, and A Portfolio Development Course for students entering Grades 9-12. Cost of participation in the program is $375, which includes all art materials, transportation, and consultant fees.
Links to a camp brochure and application can be found at http://www.bcps.org/offices/visual_arts/summer_art_EP.html. For more information on the summer program, contact Mary Boegner of the BCPS Office of Visual Arts at 410-887-4030 or mboegner2@bcps.org.
Tentative plans are that bus transportation will be available from Catonsville and Cromwell elementary schools; Cockeysville, Golden Ring, Holabird, and Sudbrook middle schools; and Hereford, Parkville, and Woodlawn high schools. Transportation plans may change based on program enrollment.
The BCPS Summer Visual Arts Enrichment Program is an opportunity offered annually to students with an interest in art, as well as those seeking entrance into gifted and talented or college art programs, acceptance into a magnet art program, and/or preparation for Advanced Placement (AP) art programs.
↧
↧
Board of Education of Baltimore County to meet on Tuesday, April 21, 2015
TOWSON -- The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2015, at its Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, Building E, Towson 21204.
The Building and Contracts Committee will meet at 4 p.m. The Board will meet in open session at approximately 5 p.m. The Board will then meet in closed session as permitted by law. The open session will reconvene at 6:30 p.m. The public is welcome to attend all open sessions.
The school system is committed to accessible communication with its stakeholders. Additionally, all Board of Education meetings are live-streamed and can be viewed on the BCPS Web site (www.bcps.org).
↧
Week of activities in BCPS schools to celebrate, raise awareness of home-grown Kids Helping Hopkins organization
What: Twenty years ago, a group of Baltimore County educators and community leaders led by music teacher Anita Rozenel formed an organization designed to support children being treated at the Children’s Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital. By marshalling the creativity and compassion of the school system’s students, Kids Helping Hopkins served not only to provide support to children at the Center -- many of them students in BCPS schools -- but also as a way for students to learn the value of doing good works to help ease hospital stays for ill classmates. Two decades later, BCPS will observe a week of activities to celebrate the organization’s partnership with county schools and to remind students and teachers of the continuing need for their support of the Children’s Center and its patients. Activities will include information during morning announcements, a fundraising effort, social media communication by students, wearing yellow on Thursday, April 23, to support Kids Helping Hopkins, and distribution of stickers for students to wear to show their support.
When: Monday, April 20, 2015, through Friday, April 24, 2015, during school hours Where: All BCPS schools are invited to participate
Background: The week of awareness is in preparation for additional events and projects planned by individual schools and the school system scheduled for next fall. While much of Kids Helping Hopkins involves students making cards, books, stuffed animals, toys, and other crafts for Hopkins patients, the organization also has been an important fundraiser for the work of the Children’s Center. Since 1994, more than $1.7 million has been raised by Kids Helping Hopkins.
↧
The quickest students prevail as mighty math minds clash at countywide M&T Bank 24 Challenge®
TOWSON, MD— After a morning of grueling but fast-paced computation, 20 BCPS students emerged as winners of the 2015 M&T Bank 24 Challenge® held recently in Timonium.
From about 250 “mathletes” in Grades 5-8 who competed in the prestigious math tournament at the Radisson Hotel North Baltimore, five grand champions and 15 finalists took home trophies.
“Our students were recognized for their exemplary mathematics skills, and they were reminded how mathematics proficiency will prepare them well for college, careers, and to be globally competitive,” said Dr. John Staley, director of the BCPS Office of Mathematics PreK-12. “We’d like to commend our school-based coaches and our wonderful parents for their high level of involvement in taking on the rigorous practice opportunities that helped to prepare students for both school competition and the 24 Challenge event today.”
BCPS and M&T Bank officials were among the community leaders, parents, and teachers cheering on the county’s best math students. M&T Bank serves as the sole corporate sponsor of the 24 Challenge® in county schools. In addition, a grant from the National Security Agency’s Mathematics Education Partnership Program also assisted with the cost of the program.
Developed by Suntex International, Inc., the 24 Challenge® game is designed to improve skills in mental computation, pattern recognition, and deductive reasoning. Each card presents four numbers that can be combined to 24. The challenge is to determine what combination of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and/or division of whole numbers (single or double digits) or integers will yield that solution.
Baltimore County students have participated in the national 24 Challenge® for more than 15 years. Even with tournament dates that had to be rescheduled due to snow earlier in the year, students representing 21 middle and 78 elementary schools competed in this year’s 24 Challenge®.
Grand champions in five divisions of play (two elementary divisions and three middle school divisions) were each awarded a $250 prize to invest in their education. In addition, 15 other finalists – with second place as gold, and third and fourth place as silver – received $75 and $50 prizes, respectively.
The following students were named 2014 Grand Champions and finalists:
Elementary School Level
Single Digits Competition
Grand Champion - David Adebogun, Timber Grove Elementary School
2nd Place – Faythe Shedrick, Seneca Elementary School
3rd Place – Fatima Sarfraz, Vincent Farm Elementary School
4th Place – Collin Lee, Sparks Elementary School
Double Digit Competition
Grand Champion – Esha Singhai, Jackonsville Elementary School
2nd Place – Jason Banks, Cromwell Valley Elementary School
3rd Place – Jordan Beck, West Towson Elementary School
4th Place – Anthony Fava, Seventh District Elementary School
Middle School Level
Single Digit Competition
Grand Champion – Larrin Sydnor, Deer Park Magnet Middle School
2nd Place – Ady Young, Perry Hall Middle School
3rd Place – Eunice Kim, Ridgely Middle School
4th Place – Akshay Kapur, Perry Hall Middle School
Double Digit Competition
Grand Champion – Neal Lim, Ridgely Middle School
2nd Place – Adilya Sharda, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School
3rd Place – Eric Gorner, Franklin Middle School
4th Place – Maverick Irwin, Perry Hall Middle School
Integers Competition
Grand Champion – Saif Hossain, Ridgely Middle School
2nd Place – Tyler Yup, Parkville Middle School
3rd Place – Lily Fleischer, Franklin Middle School
4th Place – Andrew Buckingham, Perry Hall Middle School
↧
Finalists announced for 2015-16 Baltimore County Principal of the Year: Winner to be announced during May 6 ceremony
TOWSON, MD. – Five Baltimore County Public Schools principals have been named finalists for the school system’s annual Principal of the Year award for 2015-2016.
“Through the Principal of the Year program, we are able to honor the considerable talents of these innovative and dedicated educational leaders,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “And while we spotlight these five deserving principals, together they represent a team of principals in Baltimore County who are distinguished by their vision and their commitment to children. We are fortunate in Baltimore County to have such a wealth of educational leadership and talent.”
Dr. Dance announced this year’s Principal of the Year finalists Thursday during a monthly leadership meeting of principals and school system administrators. The finalists are:
- Melissa DiDonato, principal of Padonia International Elementary School.
- Doug Elmendorf, principal of Chase Elementary School.
- Jonná Hundley, principal of Chapel Hill Elementary School.
- Jennifer Mullenax, principal of Halstead Academy.
- Jean Wilson, principal of Pine Grove Elementary School.
↧
↧
Food Network star Duff Goldman to help celebrate BCPS Maryland Breakfast Challenge winner
What: Baltimore County Public Schools, the Maryland No Kid Hungry campaign, and Red House Run Elementary School will host an event featuring Food Network star Duff Goldman and the Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe as part of a statewide celebration of the Maryland Breakfast Challenge. Red House Run Elementary will be honored as the Baltimore County winner of the Maryland Breakfast Challenge and will be awarded $2,000 for showing the highest increase in students who ate school breakfast compared to those eligible for a free school lunch. During the event, Goldman will talk about the importance of breakfast and will participate in “breakfast games” with students, along with Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe.
When: Monday, April 20, starting at 8:30 a.m.Where: Red House Run Elementary School
1717 Weyburn Road
Rosedale 21237
↧
For the 10th year in a row! County schools among nation’s best for music education
TOWSON, MD. – Bang the drums and blow the horns! Baltimore County Public Schools has been named again as one of the nation’s "Best Communities for Music Education." The 2015 designation was made by the National Association for Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.
This year, 388 school districts were selected as Best Communities for Music Education and 120 individual schools received Support Music Merit Awards. Baltimore County Public Schools first received the Best Communities honor in 2004 and has every year since 2006.
“We are quite proud of our music program and all of our arts instruction,” said Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “We value arts education for its role in nurturing emerging artists and arts patrons and because we know that the arts strengthen 21st century skills – innovation, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration – needed to excel in all disciplines.”
The body of evidence linking arts education and overall student success continues to expand. At the beginning of this school year, Dr. Nina Kraus, a Northwestern University brain researcher, released a new study showing that participation in music education improves brain function and sparks language development.
In BCPS, music classes are mandatory and yearlong for all kindergarten through eighth-grade students. The school system 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, “Ensuring that every child has access to music in schools requires commitment by students, teachers, and those who determine school budgets. We commend the districts and schools that have earned the Best Community designation this year. They join with so many that believe as we do that there is a vital link between do-rei-me and the ABCs.”
Now in its 16th 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. Researchers at The Center for Public Partnerships and Research, Kansas (an affiliate of the University of Kansas) led the data review. Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and greater access to music education.
↧
BCPS News Tips: April 18 – 25, 2015: Activities, events and news from Baltimore County Public Schools
Saturday, April 18
Villa Cresta student artwork wins competition, to be unveiled at MSEA event
What: Artwork created by two Villa Cresta Elementary School students – Grade 5 student Gabrielle Schwartz and Grade 3 student Zoey Riescher – will be unveiled in a special ceremony at the Maryland State Education Association headquarters in Annapolis. The artwork was among winning designs in the association’s 150th Anniversary Art Contest and came with a $1,000 prize shared by the pair. When: 11 a.m., Saturday, April 18Where: MSEA headquarters, 140 Main St., Annapolis 21401 Contact: Ashley Gladden, 443.433.3643, or Sally March, 410.887.5275Westowne Elementary School PTA hosts school’s first Spring Spree Craft & Vendor Fair
What: The Westowne Elementary School PTA will host the school’s first Spring Spree Craft & Vendor Fair featuring unique items frommore than 30 local crafters.In addition, the fair will feature food, live music by Otis and Karen, raffles, door prizes, and more.When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday, April 18
Where: Westowne Elementary School, 401 Harlem La., Catonsville 21228 Contact: Cathy Ritzes, 410.887.0854“Hairspray” finishes run at Towson High School
What:“Hairspray,” the iconic Baltimore romantic musical of teenager Tracy Turnblad’s pursuit of TV dance stardom as well as racial justice, concludes a three-night run at Towson High School. Tickets are $10 at the door. When: 7 p.m., Saturday, April 18Where: Towson High School, 69 Cedar Ave., Towson 21286 Contact: Towson High School, 410.887.3608Sunday, April 19
Enjoy the spring at the Franklin High School 5-Kilometer Run/Walk
What: While the Franklin High School community has excelled recently -- from football state championships to award-winning plays to thriving academic programs – the school seeks to celebrate the school’s overall focus on health and its sense of community with Franklin’s first 5K walk and run. The race is designed to create unity for students and the surrounding Reisterstown area. Proceeds will benefit the school’s PTSA. When: 8 a.m., Sunday, April 19Where: Franklin High School, 12000 Reisterstown Rd., Reisterstown 21136 Contact: Tim Showalter or Julia Showalter, 410.887.1119Monday, April 20
Kids Helping Hopkins Week in BCPS schools kicks off a week of awareness
What: BCPS begins a week of activities to celebrate its partnership with Kids Helping Hopkins, an organization begun by BCPS educators and community leaders designed to support of the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. Activities during the week will include special morning announcements, a fundraising effort, social media communication by students, wearing yellow on Thursday, April 23, and distribution of stickers for students to wear to show their support.When: Monday, April 20, 2015, through Friday, April 24, 2015, during school hoursWhere: All BCPS schools are invited to participateContact: Office of Communications, 410.887.5908Breakfast program at Red House Run Elementary School hosts special guests
What: BCPS, the Maryland No Kid Hungry campaign, and Red House Run Elementary School will host an event featuring Food Network star Duff Goldman and the Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe as part of a statewide celebration of the Maryland Breakfast Challenge. Red House Run Elementary will be honored as the Baltimore County winner of the Maryland Breakfast Challenge and will be awarded $2,000 for showing the highest increase in students who ate school breakfast compared to those eligible for a free school lunch. During the event, Goldman will talk about the importance of breakfast and will participate in “breakfast games” with students, along with Baltimore Ravens mascot Poe. When: 8:30 a.m., Monday, April 20Where: Red House Run Elementary School, 1717 Weyburn Rd., Rosedale 21237Contact: Drue Whitney, 410.887.0506Daylong Science Fair demonstrates hard work of Grade 5 students at Johnnycake Elementary School
What: From judging to display, the hard work of students in Grade 5 at Johnnycake Elementary School will be front and center during the school’s annual Science Fair. When: 1:30 – 3 p.m. judging, 6 – 7:30 p.m. public exhibit and fair
Where: Johnnycake Elementary School, 5910 Craigmont Rd., Woodlawn 21228 Contact: Jolene Anticoli, 410.887.0823Project-based learning on display at Prettyboy Elementary School
What: Grade 4 students at Prettyboy Elementary School have been immersed this semester in project-based learning, through which they work for extended periods to investigate and respond to complex questions and challenges. Guided by Dr. Liz Berquist from Towson University, students will present their work during a special culminating event to which local elected officials and community members have been invited. When: 1:30 p.m., Monday, April 20Where: Prettyboy Elementary School, 19810 Middletown Rd., Freeland 21053Contact: Sue Truesdell, 410.887.1900Tuesday, April 21
Milford Mill Academy to participate in “Inside Out” art project
What: Milford Mill Academy will become the only BCPS high school to participate in the international “Inside Out” art project when more than 70 students will install portraits of themselves on the brick walls outside the school as a way of demonstrating the diversity of the school as well as allowing viewers to learn about the individual students within Milford Mill’s walls. The project, which began with a French artist in 2007, has involved more than 200,000 people in 112 nations since its inception. When: 3 – 4 p.m., Tuesday, April 21
Where: Milford Mill Academy, 3800 Washington Ave., Milford 21244 Contact: Adrian Charley, 410.887.0660Chatsworth School to host award-winning author and songwriter
What: Chatsworth School will host children’s book author and songwriter Barry Louis Polisar for a day of writing and singing instruction and fun. During his visit, Polisar will discuss the writing process and share some of his award-winning books and songs with students. When: During school hours, Tuesday, April 21Where: Chatsworth SchoolMedia Center, 222 New Ave., Reisterstown 21236Contact: Nancy Braverman, 410.887.1103 Rodgers Forge Elementary School students to share musical talents with students at Ridge Ruxton School
What: Grade 3 students from Rodgers Forge Elementary School will share their musical talents with students at Ridge Ruxton School as they perform in a recorder musical assembly. When: 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 21Where: Ridge Ruxton School, 6916 Charles St., Towson 21204Contact: Ed Bennett, 410.887.3594 BCPS music students to play “Side by Side” with Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
What: Before an audience of 1,400 elementary, middle and high school students, 38 high school musicians will perform alongside members of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra during the Baltimore County Public Schools' annual Side By Side concert. The program will feature music by Brahms, Rimsky-Korsakov, and Tchaikovsky, and it will be led by Ken Lam, artistic director and conductor of the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra. When: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 21Where: Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall,1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore 21201Contact: Karl Stewart, 410.887.4024Prettyboy Elementary School hosts Art Expo 2015
What: Prettyboy Elementary School will host its annual “Art Expo” comprised of student artwork on display in the school’s cafeteria and hallways. Refreshments will be provided and interactive art activities will be available. Art will be featured from students representing all grade levels.When: 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, April 21Where: Prettyboy Elementary School, 19810 Middletown Rd., Freeland 21053Contact: Sue Truesdell, 410.887.1900Wednesday, April 22
Second annual countywide “Clean Green 15” kicks off litter pick-up initiative event at Western School of Technology
What: Observing the nationwide “Earth Day,” BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance and County Executive Kevin Kamenetz will launch an anti-litter initiative -- the second annual 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 environmental grants for some schools that receive credit for the anti-littering projects or educational efforts.
When: 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 22Where: Western School of Technology, 100 Kenwood Rd., Catonsville 21228Contact: Office of Communications, 410.887.5908Oliver Beach Elementary School celebrates Earth Month with special assembly
What: Oliver Beach Elementary School will host an Earth Month assembly sponsored by Entenmann’s Bakery and TerraCycle® to recognize students who participated in the Entenmann’s Little Bites Pouch Brigade® recycling program. The sponsors also will present a new recycled picnic table to the school for their contributions. The assembly will include demonstrations and video presentations of the recycling and upcycling processes, eco-tips from the Arbor Day Foundation, and a question and answer session with the speakers.
When: 1:45 – 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 22
Where: Oliver Beach Elementary School, 12912 Cunninghill Cove Rd., Chase 21220 Contact: Benjamin Mertes, 410.887.5943Thursday, April 23
Joppa View Elementary School celebrates 25 years of learning and leadership
What: Joppa View Elementary School celebrates its 25th anniversary in April, and the school is kicking up its heels by hosting an open house for the community, former teachers, and former students. When: 6:30 – 8 p.m., Thursday, April 23
Where: Joppa View Elementary School, 8727 Honeygo Blvd., White Marsh 21128 Contact: Fran Gustin, 410.887.5065Saturday, April 25
Catonsville High School students to be named finalists in state literature contest
What: Two Catonsville High School students, Billy Vaughn and Emma Runge, will be recognized at a special ceremony as finalists in the 2015 Maryland “Letters About Literature” contest. Sponsored by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress, the competition garnered nearly 2,000 entries from Maryland students. When: Please contact Ms. Coates for times, Saturday, April 25Where: Enoch Pratt Free Library Central Branch, 400 Cathedral St., Baltimore 21201Contact: Melanie Coates, 410.887.0808BCPS middle and high school students and their parents invited to a free interactive finance workshop
What: BCPS middle and high school students and their parents are invited to a free budgeting and career simulation sponsored by Junior Achievement that provides real-time opportunities to manage a career or family budget. In the JA Personal Finance Experience, students will be assigned a life situation that dictates career and salary and explains family size and responsibilities. Students then visit stations representing areas of personal lifestyle expenses and work with JA staff and volunteers to determine how much of their budget to use. The Personal Finance Experience is offered though a partnership between JA, BCPS, and One Main Financial to help students start developing skills needed for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and also to hone the personal finance skills to be responsible adults. When: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Saturday, April 25
Where: CCBC Catonsville, Student Services Center – Room 004, 800 S. Rolling Rd., Catonsville 21228
Contact: Chris Bugher, 410.753.3295
↧