TOWSON, MD. – Baltimore County Public Schools announced yesterday that Chesapeake, Owings Mills, and Pikesville high schools will become the county’s first “Lighthouse" high schools, joining with the elementary and middle schools that have piloted the school system’s instructional digital conversion. The conversion, which is part of a multi-year effort called S.T.A.T. (Students and Teachers Accessing Tomorrow) to create 21st century learning environments in every classroom in the county, is centered on shifting teaching and learning through the integration of technology. Lighthouse schools are those that have been tasked with pioneering staff development, curriculum conversion, personalized and blended learning, and the use of 1:1 digital devices for each student. “We are now two years into the implementation of S.T.A.T., and the initiative has already led to significant enhancements in our learning environments,” said BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance. “We are seeing increased student engagement and greater academic rigor. Students are experiencing more choice, more personalized learning options, and teachers are better able to meet the needs of all students. We are excited now to bring all that S.T.A.T. has to offer into our high schools.” On Monday, a caravan of BCPS administrators visited each of the three high schools surprising principals and teachers as they revealed the news. The schools were identified through a process that began earlier in the school year when high school principals were asked if they were interested in participating in the pilot. Once interest was determined, school instructional staff members were surveyed about their level of commitment. Schools with high levels of staff interest and commitment were asked to complete applications, which were reviewed and approved by a special committee. The conversion, which Dr. Dance introduced as a system priority during his 2012 State of the Schools address, calls for a fundamental shift in teaching and learning. The conversion involves curriculum development, technology upgrades and professional development as well as ongoing changes to policies and procedures in order to reach standards ensuring a 21st-century, technology-driven environment in each classroom. S.T.A.T. has since won attention both from national and international observers, including recognition through two national Digital Innovation in Learning Awards, a $1.5 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, being named the sole “Showcase” school system by Microsoft in 2015, being admitted to the League of Innovative Schools, receiving a Digital Content and Curriculum Achievement Award from the Center for Digital Education, and earning a grant through Maryland’s 2014 Digital Learning Innovation Fund. Dr. Dance also has discussed S.T.A.T. before audiences including the Federal Communications Commission and a technology symposium in the Republic of Korea.

TOWSON – The NAMM Foundation has honored Baltimore County Public Schools with the 2016 Best Communities for Music Education designation for its outstanding commitment to music education. BCPS joins 476 districts across the nation in receiving this year’s prestigious award. Baltimore County Public Schools first received the Best Communities honor in 2004 and has every year since 2006. “Our music educators, administrators, and students are simply extraordinary," said Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance, “as are our partnerships with local arts organizations. In Baltimore County, we value arts education for its role in nurturing emerging artists and arts patrons, for allowing our students to express themselves and learn more about the culture and history of others, and because we know that the arts strengthen the 21st century skills – innovation, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration – needed to excel in all disciplines." The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Districts that have been recognized by the NAMM Foundation are often held up as models for other educators looking to boost their own music education programs. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, BCPS answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas. Community music programs have been drawing increased attention because of a landmark study by Northwestern University brain scientists. These researchers found new links between students in community music programs and academic success in subjects such as reading. Beyond the Northwestern study, other reports indicate that learning to play music can boost academic and social skills, such as processing math and learning to cooperate in group settings. A 2015 study, “Striking A Chord,” supported by the NAMM Foundation, also outlines the overwhelming desire by teachers and parents for music education opportunities for all children as part of the school curriculum.

What: In honor of April being Autism Awareness Month, Parkville High School is hosting its third annual Autism Awareness Day. Activities throughout the day are designed to build relationships and understanding among students and to raise funds for the nonprofit Organization of Autism Research and the special programs at the school for its approximately 100 students who are on the autism spectrum. Activities will include a scavenger hunt during which students in general education classes will learn more about students on the autism spectrum; selected general education students observing and assisting with classes for students on the autism spectrum; and an Autism Awareness Dance Party for all students. Funds will be raised by selling T-shirts, bracelets, and blueberry cheesecake soy candles. These candles are produced and packaged by students with autism. The school expects to raise about $2,000. When: Friday, April 8, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 7 – 8:15 a.m. – Information and blue ribbon giveaway in the lobby 8:15 – 9:20 a.m. – Scavenger hunt 9:20 – 10:45 a.m. – Special art class 10:45 – 11:15 a.m. – Lunch 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. –Observing/working in classrooms 12:45 – 2 p.m. – Autism Awareness Dance Party Where: Parkville High School, 2600 Putty Hill Ave., 21234Background: Students in the Communication and Learning Support and Functional Academic Learning Support classes at Parkville High opened a candle shop in October 2015. They select scents, assemble, package and deliver candles that other students and teachers order. Their candles were especially popular during the winter holidays, and thus far, the shop has made approximately $1,000.

What: The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a special ceremony to honor students and staff in a variety of areas of achievement, including National Merit scholars and the winners of the Baltimore County Public Schools Ethics Awards from each high school. When: Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at 6:30 p.m.Where: Loch Raven High School 1212 Cowpens Ave. Towson, Maryland 21286Background: The Board of Education will honor dozens of students and staff as part of its annual spring recognition ceremony. In addition, 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). Finally, 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.

What: Taylor Meadows-Powell, a Grade 6 student at General John Stricker Middle School, is a finalist in the Weather + Climate Contest sponsored by Climate Central, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, and the Town Creek Foundation (http://weatherandclimateday.org/). Meadows-Powell, her family, and Grade 6 science teacher Mrs. Hernandez will attend this event, where the winners will be announced. Meadows-Powell’s award-winning weather video can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH-MniFaKgQ. When: 1 – 5 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 9 Where: The National Aquarium in Baltimore, 501 E. Pratt St., 21202 Contact: Brian Wagner, 410.887.7038What: Hereford High School invites the community to join in a celebration of completed building renovations and the school’s status as a Maryland Blue Ribbon School. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house featuring building tours and refreshments.When: Sunday, Apr. 10 Ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. Open house from 1 – 4 p.m. Where: Contact: Louis Jira, 410.887.1905What: MileOne Automotive, a new community partner to Maiden Choice School, will present the school with a check for $5,000 to support the purchase of MOVE equipment for the school. When: 1 p.m., Monday, Apr. 11Where: Maiden Choice School, 4901 Shelbourne Rd., 21227Contact: Nancy Briganti or Meghan Maher, 410.887.1431What: The next meeting of the Special Education Citizens’ Advisory Committee (SECAC) will address the topic “What Are K-12 Standards Based IEPs?” The meeting is open to the public and registration is not required.When: 7 – 9 p.m., Monday, Apr. 11 Where: Woodlawn Branch of the Baltimore County Public Library, 1811 Woodlawn Dr., 21207 Contact: Office of Special Education, 443.809.3660 Hebbville Elementary to host What: Hebbville Elementary School invites its students and parents to participate in an evening to celebrate STEM – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The evening will include a math and science fair. When: 6 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 12Where: Hebbville Elementary School, 3335 Washington Ave., 21244Contact: Sandra Wilkins, Darnell Peaker, or Pat Manley, 410.887.0708What: Fifth District Elementary School students have always been “Wild About Reading” but will soon get to earn additional reading time in a new jungle-themed reading room! Through a generous Carson Scholars Fund donation, Fifth District Elementary School was awarded a Carson Reading Room. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new room will be preceded by a special program and followed by refreshments for honored guests.When: 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, Apr. 12 (start time for program)Where: Fifth District Elementary School, 3725 Mount Carmel Rd., 21155Contact: Robert Findley, 410.887.1726What: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 6 – 8 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 12 Where: McCormick Elementary School, 5101 Hazelwood Ave., 21206 Contact: Pamela Crosell, 410.887.0500What: The next meeting of the Southeast Area Education Advisory Council will focus on the BCPS curriculum. The meeting is open to the public and no registration is required. When: 7 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 12Where: Norwood Elementary School, 1700 Delvale Ave., 21222Contact: Patrice Goldys, 410.887.7055What: Throughout the month of April, the Baltimore County Public Library is hosting its first countywide reading event: BC Reads. The mission ofBC Readsis to promote communitywide discussion through reading and the arts. The theme ofBC Reads2016 isRise Up!The titles chosen all include stories of learning and growing, rising up through adversity, and connecting with one another. As part of the celebration and in recognition of April as National School Library Month, throughout the month, local authors will speak at various Baltimore County schools. On this date, Rita Williams-Garcia, author of“One Crazy Summer,” will visit the school library at Pine Grove Middle School. When: Tuesday, Apr. 12 (please contact the school for exact times)Where: Pine Grove Middle School, 9200 Harford Rd., 21234Contact: Tina Nelson, 410.887.5270What:Junior Achievement of Central Maryland Inc. (JA) will coordinate Maryland’s first JA STEM Summit to educate students about the opportunities of pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.Maryland Secretary of Commerce Mike Gill, along with Robert Caret, Chancellor of the University System of Maryland, Dr. Dallas Dance, Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, and Lee McChesney, JA Board Member and CFO of the GTS Division of Stanley Black & Decker are slated to speak during the opening remarks of the day-long summit. Members of the education and business communities are invited to observe the students participating in a variety of hands-on STEM activities from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The Summit is designed to give students a real-life experience of STEM with activitiesthat include hands-on experiments, competitions, and career panels to teach students about STEM careers. More than 20 volunteers from STEM employers in Maryland will assist the students. All freshmen students at Pikesville High Schoolwill participate in the JA STEM Summit. JA’s York, Pennsylvania office runs 26 STEM Summits each year, but this is the first time it will be held in Maryland. When: 7:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 12Where: Pikesville High School,7621 Labyrinth Rd., 21208Contact: Sandra Reid, 410.887.1217What: The Bookworms, a volunteer group through Chapter Two, part of the Associated Jewish Charities, will hold its annual Book Fair Day at Milbrook Elementary School. These gracious volunteers have been collecting books from their community since last year's event.During lunch, each Milbrook student will be invited to select books to keep.The books will be arranged by genre and level of difficulty. When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, Apr. 13 Where: Milbrook Elementary School, 4300 Crest Heights Rd., 21215Contact: Jeff Tessier, 410.887.1225What: The Annual STEAM Expo at Old Court Middle School takes place over two days and celebrates science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. There will be many enthusiasticguest scientists andpresenters, demonstrations, interactive presentations, and hands-on activities for students and parents to participate in and learn from. When: Wednesday, Apr. 13, and Thursday, Apr. 14 (please contact the school for exact times) Where: Old Court Middle School, 4627 Old Court Rd., 21208 Contact: Kyria Joseph or Kevin Johnson, 410.887.0742 What: The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a special ceremony to honor students and staff in a variety of areas of achievement, including National Merit scholars and the winners of the Baltimore County Public Schools Ethics Awards from each high school. When: 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Apr. 13Where: Loch Raven High School, 1212 Cowpens Ave., 21286Contact: The Department of Communications and Community Outreach, 443.809.5908What: Artwork by students from Chase, Essex, Middlesex, Orems, and Victory Villa elementary schools, Middle River Middle School, and Kenwood High School will be on display. The event is free and open to the public.When: 5 – 7 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 14 Where: Kenwood High School gymnasium, 501 Stemmers Run Rd., 21221Contact: Kandice Taylor, 410.887.0153What: Erin Hagar, author of “Awesome Minds: The Inventors of LEGO Toys” and “Julia Child: An Extraordinary Life in Pictures and Words,” will visit Riderwood Elementary School to speak with students.When: Thursday, Apr. 14 (please contact the school for exact times) Where: Riderwood Elementary School, 1711 Landrake Rd., 21204Contact: Kathy DeHart or Patricia Lige, 410.887.3568What: Student winners of the 19th annual Carver Center Middle School Writing Contest and their teachers will be honored at a ceremony. Winners will receive prizes sponsored by the Carver Center Foundation. The competition, coordinated by the literary arts students, draws hundreds of entries, and winners are selected based on voice, originality, diction, structure, and content. When: 6 – 8 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 14 Where: George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, dining hall, 938 York Rd., 21204Contact: Karen Steele, 410.887.2775What: The Dance Magnet at Patapsco High School & Center for the Arts is proud to present its spring dance concert. This concert will feature master works for each class, as well as work choreographed by Patapsco students. Come both Thursday and Friday evenings to enjoy a different show each night as student works will be performed one night only. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors and will be available at the door.When: 7 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 14, and Friday, Apr. 15Where: Patapsco High School & Center for the Arts, 8100 Wise Ave., 21222Contact: Craig Reed, 410.887.7060What: The Special Education Resource Center Event is hosting a free parent workshop on “Behavior Management at Home.” The event is free and open to the public but attendees are asked to register at 410-887-5443 or ldiffenderfer@bcps.org.When: 7 – 9 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 14 Where: BCPS school system headquarters, Greenwood Campus, Bldg. E, Rm. 114
6901 N. Charles St., 21204Contact: 410-887-5443 or ldiffenderfer@bcps.org Visit the Parentmobile at Featherbed Lane ElementaryWhat: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 5:30 – 7:15 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 14 Where: Featherbed Lane Elementary School, 6700 Richardson Rd., 21207 Contact: Renee Johnson, 410.887.1302What: Students at Fort Garrison and Summit Park elementary schools are joining together to host a Hop for Hopkins. WBAL Radio and 98 Rock traffic reporter Dave Sandler will serve as the deejay. All proceeds from the dance and from the sale of refreshments and “blinkie” necklaces will benefit Kids Helping Hopkins, which supports the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. Requested donations are $3 per person or $10 per family. All children must be accompanied by adults. When: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., Friday, Apr. 15 Where: Pikesville Middle School, 7701 Seven Mile Ln., 21208Contact: Karen Harris, 410.887.1203 or Karen Gieron, 410.887.1210What: Throughout the month of April, Baltimore County Public Library is hosting its first countywide reading event: BC Reads. The mission ofBC Readsis to promote communitywide discussion through reading and the arts. The theme ofBC Reads2016 isRise Up!The titles chosen all include stories of learning and growing, rising up through adversity, and connecting with one another. As part of the celebration and in recognition of April as National School Library Month, throughout the month, local authors will speak at various Baltimore County schools. On this date, Jerdine Nolan, author of“In My Momma’s Kitchen,” will visit the school library at Martin Boulevard Elementary School.When: Friday, Apr. 15 (please contact the school for exact times)Where: Martin Boulevard Elementary School, 210 Riverton Rd., 21220Contact: Janet Mahoney, 410.887.0158What: The Construction Technology Academy at Perry Hall High School is accepting applications for its July 5-29 session. The four-week program for Baltimore County Public Schools’ juniors, seniors, and recent graduates emphasizes skills needed by electricians, HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) technicians, carpenters, plumbers, and more. The academy is sponsored by Associated Builders and Contractors Baltimore in collaboration with BCPS and the Community College of Baltimore County. Classes will be held Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will include lessons on construction safety, power and hand-tools, construction math, and the construction process. Hands-on projects in electrical work, plumbing, and carpentry will allow students to practice what they have learned. Participants who successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to interview with commercial builders. The cost of the program is $150 per student to cover lab and supply expenses. The fee must accompany the application and will be refunded in full if the application is not accepted. Seats will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis for qualified applicants. Applications are available from school counselors in BCPS high schools and at http://www.bcps.org/offices/cte/pdf/CTA-ConstructionBrochure.pdf and must be submitted by Friday, Apr. 15, along with the results of a “5-panel" drug screen and the program fee.Contact: Michelle Butt, mbutt@abcbaltimore.org or 443-742-6125.What: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Friday, Apr. 15 Where: Glenmar Elementary School, 9700 Community Dr., 21220 Contact: Delores Tedeschi-Butler, 410.887.0127What: The Randallstown High School PTSA Spring Xplosion Family Event is free and open to the public. The event will feature 40 craft, food, and service vendors, a rock climbing wall, a video gaming Humvee, a wood workshop for children, face painting, dance performances, voter registration, a karate demonstration, and music. Community partners for the event include the Army National Guard, Home Depot- Randallstown, NAACP, Inferno Dance Studio, Dragon Tao Karate Studio, and Three DJ Entertainment.When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 16 Where: Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., 21133Contact: Aubrey Brown, 410.887.0748What: The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is offering special Saturday placement testing days for Baltimore County Public Schools’ students. Students interested in enrolling in an Early College Access Program (taking college classes while in high school) and BCPS seniors who will attend CCBC starting in the fall 2016 semester are encouraged to participate. Admissions and financial aid representatives will be available to talk to parents about entry processes and how to pay for college. Seats are limited. Students are asked to register by clicking “CCBC info session” atwww.ccbcmd.edu/infosessionsby the deadlines below to secure their testing date. More information is available here. When: Saturday, Apr. 16 (registration deadline, Wednesday, Apr. 13) Check-in is from 8:30 to 9:20 a.m., and placement testing begins at 9:30 a.m.Where: CCBC Owings Mills Center Enrollment and Student Services Center, Room 402 10300 Grand Central Avenue Owings Mills, MD 21117 and CCBC Essex Student Services Center, Admissions Office, Suite 012 7201 Rossville Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21237-3899Contact: www.ccbcmd.edu/testingcenterWhat: More than 200 nearly new and gently used formal dresses, jewelry items, and shoes will be available for free for BCPS students preparing to attend an upcoming prom. Every attendee will receive a prom dress and accessory. The event is sponsored by A.S.C.E.N.D., LOV Charities, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Epsilon Omega Chapter (www.akaupsilonepsilonomega.org). A.S.C.E.N.D. is a club at Perry Hall High that is sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Upsilon Epsilon Omega Chapter. To donate items to the event, please contact ASCEND@akaupsilonepsilonomega.org. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.When: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 23, Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., 21236Contact: Andrew Last, 410.887.5108What: All Baltimore County Public Schools students who will be in Grades 9 – 12 during the 2016 – 2017 school year can apply to participate in the BCPS Chinese Cultural Exchange Program. Through this program, students spend six weeks in China (typically from mid-May through early July), attending special classes and visiting historic and cultural sites. The information night will provide more information about the program and the application process. Students and parents are encouraged to attend together. Participation in the program does not require being able to speak or having studied the Chinese language. The cost for participation in the program is approximately $2,600. Scholarships are available for students eligible for free- and reduced-price meals. When: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 28Where: Baltimore County Public Schools Headquarters, Greenwood Campus, 6901 N. Charles St., Building E, Room 114, Towson 21204Contact: The Office of World Languages, 443-809-6756

By winning the 11th annual Baltimore Bee, Rachel Rowe, a Grade 8 student at Hereford Middle School, has qualified to compete in the prestigious 89th annual Scripps National Spelling Bee. This will be the fourth time that Hereford Middle has been represented at the National Bee. The last Hereford Middle student to compete was Robbie Palmisano in 2011. At the bee, Rowe will compete against approximately 300 other students from across the nation and several other countries. This year's National Bee will be held at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, from May 22 – 27. Televised rounds of competition will air on ESPN on May 25 and 26.

TOWSON – Baltimore County Public Schools has announced the names of 15 elementary schools to become the third cohort to implement a Spanish language instruction program. The new Passport Schools announced on Friday, Apr. 8, are Berkshire, Deep Creek, Deer Park, Grange, Halstead, Hillcrest, New Town, Pinewood, Red House Run, Sandalwood, Sandy Plains, Seventh District, Sparks, Stoneleigh, and Timber Grove elementary schools. The new “Passport Schools” join 25 schools already participating in the program. The 10 original Passport Schools began offering Spanish language instruction to Grade 4 students in the 2014-2015 school year and now offer instruction to students in Grades 4 and 5. The second cohort of 15 elementary schools introduced the second-language program in Grade 4 this school year and will extend it to Grade 5 next school year. The new third cohort schools will begin offering Spanish instruction to Grade 4 students in the 2016-2017 school year. “We are so pleased that this program is continuing to grow and that by next school year, it will reach more than a third of our Grade 4 students,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. “Our students are eager for this instruction and are fully engaged in learning a new language as well as about other cultures. We know that offering them this instruction in elementary school will give them the opportunity to become proficient in a second language before graduation, and we know how much learning a new language will help facilitate their future academic and career success.” The existing 25 Passport Schools are: first cohort – Bear Creek, Hampton, Johnnycake, Padonia, Pleasant Plains, Prettyboy, Reisterstown, Sussex, Vincent Farm and West Towson elementary schools; second cohort – Franklin, Fullerton, Glenmar, Glyndon, Halethorpe, Hernwood, Lyons Mill, Mars Estates, Perry Hall, Pine Grove, Randallstown, Seneca, Shady Spring, Warren, and Woodbridge elementary schools. Selected schools were chosen from among schools that applied to participate in the program. The selection committee reviewed applications with an eye toward achieving geographic and student demographic balance. Students at Passport Schools use both Middlebury Interactive and participate in conversational lessons taught by a BCPS elementary Spanish teacher. Middlebury Interactive is a research-based, interactive, self-paced program developed by Middlebury College and Middlebury Interactive Languages. The course focuses on listening and speaking.

TOWSON – Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance and BCPS Parent University Coordinator Sue Hahn will be featured on panels during a live, two-hour forum convened by NBC News Education Nation. Dance will serve on a panel discussing “Advocating for Equity,” and Hahn will speak about parent involvement on the “Parents are Powerful” panel. In all, the event will feature six panel discussions as well as video segments highlighting issues and families. The audience for the forum, to be held on Thursday, April 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Baltimore Museum of Art’s Meyerhoff Auditorium, will include parents, thought leaders, policymakers, teachers, and area students. The forum also will address encouraging students to pursue higher education; supporting students’ social and emotional development; reducing health disparities; and nurturing student leaders. NBC News Chief Education Correspondent Rehema Ellis will moderate panel discussions and will be joined by WBAL-TV Education Reporter Dr. Tim Tooten. Produced by NBC News Education Nation with Baltimore affiliate WBAL-TV, and supported by Pearson, the forum will be live-streamed on ParentToolkit.com and NBCLearn.com. From 7 to 8 p.m., it will be broadcast live on WBAL-TV. For more information, please visit parenttoolkit.com/event. To join the conversation on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, use the hashtag #SOSevery1.

TOWSON – Registration for Baltimore County Public Schools’ 30th Annual Summer Music Camp is now underway and will continue through Friday, May 13. All Baltimore County Public Schools students in Grades 5–12 who are currently enrolled in their school band, chorus, or orchestra are invited to participate. The day camp will be held on weekdays, from Tuesday, Jun. 21, through Wednesday, Jun. 29, from 9 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. at Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., 21236. At camp, students will participate in band, chorus, or orchestra at the appropriate grade level. In addition to large group rehearsals, students will participate in enrichment classes and receive instruction to enhance their music performance skills. All of the musical ensembles will perform at a public concert on the evening of Wednesday, Jun. 29, in the outdoor amphitheater at Oregon Ridge Park, the summer home of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. The fee for this unique summer musical experience is $200. Financial assistance may be available. 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. Registration forms are available in schools from music teachers or by visiting http://www.bcps.org/offices/elem_music/pdf/Music-Camp-Registration-Form.pdf.

TOWSON – Throughout April, Baltimore County Public Schools’ libraries are joining Baltimore County Public Library in its first ever county-wide reading event: BC Reads. As part of the celebration and in recognition of April as national School Library Month, various BCPS schools will welcome visits from local authors. The first visit took place this morning when Rita Williams-Garcia, author of “One Crazy Summer,” appeared at Pine Grove Middle School. The two remaining BC Reads events in BCPS schools will be: Friday, Apr. 15, from 2:35 – 3:25 p.m. Jerdine Nolan, author of “In My Momma’s Kitchen,” at Martin Boulevard Elementary School, 210 Riverton Rd., 21220 Tuesday, Apr. 19, from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, authors of “All American Boys,” at Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., 21133 The mission of BC Reads is to promote community-wide discussion through reading and the arts, and its theme this year is “Rise Up!” Baltimore County residents of all ages are encouraged to read and discuss the following books – all related to learning and growing, even in the face of adversity. The recommended books are:

• Children’s Picture Book (Grades Kindergarten – 3): “In My Momma’s Kitchen” by Jerdine Nolen
• Children’s Chapter Book (Grades 4 – 8): “One Crazy Summer” by Rita Williams-Garcia
• Teens (Grades 9 – 12): “All American Boys” by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
• Adult Fiction: “The Turner House” by Angela Flournoy
• Adult Nonfiction: “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates

For more information about BC Reads and a schedule of community events, please visit http://www.bcplonline.org/bcreads.

TOWSON – Where to go to college? Big campus or small? Urban or rural? Close to home or far away? Most Baltimore County Public Schools’ seniors have been agonizing over these decisions and anxiously awaiting acceptances for months now. But the end is near, and BCPS invites the entire community to join in celebrating National College Decision Day. While National College Decision Day – the day when students and their families indicate their intention by paying deposits to their colleges of choice – is actually Sunday, May 1, BCPS will celebrate on the following day. On Monday, May 2, BCPS encourages all Team BCPS stakeholders to use social media and in-school and in-community events to celebrate and congratulate seniors who have been accepted to college. All stakeholders – current and former students, teachers, staff, community partners, etc., – also are asked, on this day, to wear gear representing the colleges they attended or support, post photos and share messages about the importance of choosing the right college/university using #BCPSgoestocollege on Twitter and Facebook. Seniors are asked to use this same hashtag when sharing photos, excitement, and information about the colleges they plan to attend.

TOWSON – The College Board has selected Eastern Technical High School and Pikesville High School to become two of approximately 659 high schools nationwide to offer the AP (Advanced Placement) Capstone™ diploma program for the 2016-2017 school year. Eastern Tech and Pikesville will become the first high schools in Baltimore County to offer this unique diploma program, developed by the College Board in partnership with college faculty from across the nation. The program is currently offered in five Maryland high schools and is expected to expand to five additional Maryland high schools next school year, including Eastern Tech and Pikesville. When asked why the school pursued this opportunity, Principal Sandra Reid responded, “At Pikesville High, we are always looking for ways to appropriately challenge our students, as well as tap into their diverse interests. AP Capstone allows students to pursue rich, engaging, and highly-substantive exploration of career paths that might be outside of our conventional course offerings.” Eastern Tech Principal Michelle Anderson added: “Adding the AP Capstone program to Eastern Tech’s career and technical programs allows us a unique opportunity to provide students with content that encourages complex thinking, collaboration, global awareness, and effective communication through a rigorous curriculum. With the implementation of this program, students will work on integrated projects with peers from various technical areas and independently while having industry mentors and teachers provide guidance and assistance as they focus on innovation and investigation.” The AP Capstone program is rooted in two AP courses first offered in 2014. Rather than focusing on specific content, both courses concentrate on helping students develop inquiry, research, critical thinking, collaboration, and analytical writing skills for success in college and beyond. In the AP Seminar course, usually taken in Grade 10 or 11, students explore two to four relevant issues chosen by the student and/or teacher, and students work both in teams and individually. After successfully completing AP Seminar, students can enroll in AP Research. In this class, students work independently to design, plan, and conduct a year-long research-based investigation and develop an academic thesis paper on a topic of individual interest. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research will receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing will receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. “We are so proud of these two high schools for qualifying to participate in this innovative program,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance. “AP Capstone is yet another way to enrich the academic rigor of our secondary program and to transform the high school experience. We also appreciate College Board’s commitment to having AP Capstone classrooms mirror the diversity of the school.”

TOWSON – The Board of Education will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, April 19, 2016, at its Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, Building E, Towson, Maryland 21204. The Board of Education’s Building and Contracts committee will meet at 4 p.m. The full Board will convene in open session at approximately 4:45 p.m. The Board will then meet in closed session as permitted by law. The open session will reconvene at 7:00 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).

TOWSON – SHAPE America, the Society of Health and Physical Educators, has named Maria Royals of George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology as its 2016 National Dance Education Teacher of the Year. In accepting the award last week at SHAPE’s 131st National Convention & Expo in Minneapolis, Royals said that dance was all she ever wanted to do, and she thanked her students for “making every day new, interesting, and challenging.” “I thank them,” she said, “for bringing out the best in me while I try to do the same for them. Their efforts, their passions, their pains and struggles, achievements, and celebrations make them into the people they are becoming, and each student makes me a better teacher by allowing me to be a part of that experience. I am blessed to serve these young people, and there is nothing else I would rather do.” Royals, a Gwynn Oak resident, has taught dance and served as the dance department chair at Carver Center for the past three years. Previously, she taught at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School for 12 years. As a high school dance educator, Royals recognizes the opportunity to foster her students’ maturity. Her dance curriculum places an emphasis on honing students’ study skills, self-discipline, self-motivation, resourcefulness, and collaborative skills. “By senior year they can successfully produce their own Senior Showcase, take ownership of all the responsibility and hard work they put into it, and have something tangible to share in the real world once they leave high school,” Royals said. She has piloted two projects at Carver Center: Coffee House and a Portfolio Project. Dancers choreograph, perform, and read poetry in collaboration as part of the Literary Arts Coffee House event. And, unlike the Senior Showcase, Portfolio Project is for all dance students at the school. They collect artifacts reflecting their accomplishments over their high school careers, prepare a resume, and collect videos of their dance presentations, photos, and documents. This allows them to gain perspective on their growth and refine their personal dance goals. BCPS Dance Resource Teacher Sonia Synkowski says, “Maria gives students access to both local and national opportunities to connect with professional artists, enrichment programs, and performance opportunities. She also has served as a curriculum writer for middle and high school in Baltimore County. Her contributions have helped to advance our dance education programs – as her work is always rich, responsive, and in alignment with the current educational initiatives.” Royals received a bachelor’s degree in dance from Butler University and a master’s in education from Northcentral University.

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: "County Executive Kamenetz and the members of the County Council continue to demonstrate unwavering support for Baltimore County Public Schools. Their commitment to modernizing existing schools and building new schools to accommodate our growing student population is exceptional. In addition, the county has been an essential partner in our initiatives to prepare all students to be globally competitive through rigorous, learner-centered instruction. Working together, we continue to elevate Baltimore County Public Schools and by extension to increase opportunities for the enduring success of our students and community.”

What: The Randallstown High School PTSA Spring Xplosion Family Event is free and open to the public. The event will feature 40 craft, food, and service vendors, a rock climbing wall, a video gaming Humvee, a wood workshop for children, face painting, dance performances, voter registration, a karate demonstration, and music. Community partners for the event include the Army National Guard, Home Depot-Randallstown, NAACP, Inferno Dance Studio, Dragon Tao Karate Studio, and Three DJ Entertainment.When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 16 Where: Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., 21133Contact: Aubrey Brown, 410.887.0748
What: The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is offering special Saturday placement testing days for Baltimore County Public Schools’ students. Students interested in enrolling in an Early College Access Program (taking college classes while in high school) and BCPS seniors who will attend CCBC starting in the fall 2016 semester are encouraged to participate. Admissions and financial aid representatives will be available to talk to parents about entry processes and how to pay for college. Seats are limited. Students are asked to register by clicking “CCBC info session” atwww.ccbcmd.edu/infosessionsby the deadlines below to secure their testing date. More information is available here. When: (registration deadline, Wednesday, Apr. 13) Check-in is from 8:30 to 9:20 a.m., and placement testing begins at 9:30 a.m.Where: CCBC Owings Mills Center Enrollment and Student Services Center, Room 402 10300 Grand Central Avenue Owings Mills, MD 21117 and CCBC Essex Student Services Center, Admissions Office, Suite 012 7201 Rossville Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21237-3899 Contact: www.ccbcmd.edu/testingcenter
What: The BCPS Office of Digital Learning is hosting a day of professional learning – EdCamp style. EdCamp is an unconference, where sessions are developed by the participants the day of the event. All BCPS staff members are welcome to propose and lead a session where conversation and collaboration are paramount. EdCamp is free of charge and open to all Team BCPS faculty and staff. Participation is limited and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested participants may register on BCPS One. When: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 16Where: Cockeysville Middle SchoolContact: Fran Glick, 443.809.8918
What: Parkville Middle School’sDrama Club will perform “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” Tickets purchased in advance are $5. Tickets purchased at the door will be $10.When: 7 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 16Where: Parkville Middle School, 8711 Avondale Rd., 21234Contact: Erin O’Toole-Trivas, 410.887.5250
What: Catonsville High School will host its Annual Senior Citizen Prom, coordinated by its Student Government Association. Senior citizens who live in the area, including those from Charlestown, and those active in the local senior center will participate. The free event usually attracts around 100 participants. This year’s theme is the roaring twenties.When: 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Apr. 17Where: Catonsville High School, 421 Bloomsbury Ave., 21228Contact: Matthew Ames, 410.887.0808
What: The Offices of Career and Technology Education and Science Education collaborated to produce rocket launchers for elementary science classrooms. Students in the Technology and Engineering Program at Rosedale built and tested the rocket launchers that will be used in a more student-centered curricula next year to meet the goals of the Next Generation Science Standards. High school students, from Kenwood, Overlea, and Parkville high schools, will test the rocket launchers on this date. When: 1:45 – 3 p.m., Monday, Apr. 18 Where: Rosedale Center, 8200 Old Philadelphia Rd., 21237Contact: Michael Grubbs, 443.809.9591
What: Cromwell Valley Elementary will once again host its Abilities Within Disabilities Week that will feature fun and informative activities for the whole school. On Monday, the Maryland School for the Blind will demonstrate Goal Ball. On Tuesday, speakers with various disabilities will visit individual classes. On Wednesday, the Maryland Ravens Wheelchair Basketball team will showcase its skills. And on Thursday, Johnny Hudson, a motivational speaker who has physical disabilities, will present two schoolwide assemblies.When: Monday, Apr. 18 – Friday, Apr. 22 (please contact the school for exact times) Where: Cromwell Valley Elementary, 825 Providence Rd., 21286Contact: Darlene Morrison, Trish Ryan-Thiel, or Carrie Shiavone, 410.887.4888
What: This month’s meeting of the Northeast Area Educational Advisory Council will focus on overcrowding. The meeting is open to the public and no registration is required.When: 7 p.m., Monday, Apr. 18Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., 21236
What: Representatives of Johns Hopkins University undergraduate neuroscience and behavioral biology programs will present a series of STEM workshops for Kindergarten through Grade 5 students.When: Monday, Apr. 18, Thursday, Apr. 21, and Friday, Apr. 22from 9 – 10:30 a.m. each day Where: Villa Cresta Elementary School, 2600 Rader Ave., 21234Contact: Kevin Connelly, 410.887.5275
What: Kid Pan Alley, a nonprofit, song-writing Artist-in-Residence program, will be based at Ridge Ruxton for a week. The school’s primarily non-verbal students will use their voice output communication devices, sign language, and picture symbols to make choices for the song lyrics. Students from West Towson Elementary, Ridgely Middle, and Towson High will work with Ridge Ruxton students to write the songs. This program is being supported by a grant from the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools and a corporate sponsorship from Navigator Management Partners.When & Where: Artist-in-residence program Monday, Apr. 18 – Friday, Apr. 22 Ridge Ruxton School, 6916 N. Charles St., 21204 Concluding performance 7 p.m., Friday, Apr. 22 West Towson Elementary School, 6914 N. Charles St., 21204 Contact: Ed Bennett or Laura Allison, 410.887.3594
What: Fort Garrison Elementary School invites students, staff, and supporters to wear the school colors and come to the school for a family reading night, carnival, and pep rally. The evening will begin with an optional food truck tailgate dinner and will feature interactive games and activities. Reading incentive tickets can be traded for teacher auction items, face painting, photo booth, cotton candy, and popcorn. The evening also will include a Scholastic Book Fair and a special presentation by award-winning author/illustrator (and Fort Garrison parent) Richie Frieman.When: Tuesday, Apr. 19 5 - 6:30 p.m. – optional food truck tailgate dinner 6:30 – 8 p.m. – reading night, carnival, and pep rally Where: Fort Garrison Elementary School, 3310 Woodvalley Dr., 21208Contact: Karen Harris, 410.887.1203
What: Halethorpe Elementary will host its annual STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) night. At this event, Grade 4 and 5 students will display their science projects. Additionally, all students can participate in an engineering challenge, create a recycled art project, play math games, and learn computer code. When: 6 – 8 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 Where: Halethorpe Elementary, 4300 Maple Ave., 21227Contact: Jill Carter or Lauren Patton, 410.887.1406
What: Throughout the month of April, Baltimore County Public Library is hosting its first ever countywide reading event: BC Reads. The mission ofBC Readsis to promote communitywide discussion through reading and the arts. The theme ofBC Reads2016 isRise Up!The titles chosen all include stories of learning and growing, of rising up through adversity, and of connecting with one another. As part of the celebration and in recognition of April as National School Library Month, throughout the month, local authors will speak at various Baltimore County schools. On this date, Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, authors of ”All American Boys," will visit the school library at Randallstown High School.When: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 Where: Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Rd., 21133Contact: Aubrey Brown, 410.887.0748
What: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 6:30 – 8 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 Where: Shady Spring Elementary School, 8868 Goldenwood Rd., 21237 Contact: Kenneth Dunaway, 410.887.0509
What: State and local education officials will visit Hereford High School and George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology to celebrate their designation as Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools. When & Where: 9:15 – 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 George Washington Carver Center for Arts & Technology, 938 York Rd., 21204 12 – 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 Hereford High School, 17301 York Rd., 21120 Contact: Department of Communications and Community Outreach, 443.809.5908
What: During its “Night of Super Powers,” Pinewood Elementary will showcase its super school and super students. Arts integrated activities, displays, and performances will be found throughout the school.When: 6 – 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Apr. 19 Where: Pinewood Elementary School, 200 Rickswood Rd., 21093Contact: Franchesca Brown, 410.887.7663
What: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Apr. 20 Where: Windsor Mill Middle School, 8300 Windsor Mill Rd., 21244Contact: Harvey Chambers, 410.887.0618
What: This month’s meeting of the Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council will be a meet and greet with local legislators. The event is open to the public and no registration is required.When: 7 p.m., Wednesday, Apr. 20Where: Woodlawn Middle School, 3033 Saint Lukes Ln., 21207
What: A gala ceremony will be held to announce BCPS’ Teacher of the Year for 2016-2017 as well as Elementary and Secondary Principals of the Year. When: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Apr. 20 Where: George Washington Carver Center for Arts & Technology, 938 York Rd., 21204Contact: Department of Communications and Community Outreach, 443.809.5908
What: Middle and high school students, primarily from BCPS schools on the east side and in the central area, will meet in a town hall setting with Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance. This is the second of his two town hall meetings for the school year.When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21 Where: Loch Raven High School, 1212 Cowpens Ave., 21286Contact: Department of Communications and Community Outreach, 443.809.5908
What: Six schools – Featherbed Lane, Hebbville, Johnnycake, Powhatan, and Woodmoor elementary schools, and Woodlawn Middle School – will host the fifth annual Powerful M.I.N.D. event to encourage male family members to be involved in the lives of the students in their families. Baltimore City Fire Chief R. Niles Ford will be the guest speaker, and the Powhatan Boys Choir will perform. Dinner will be served. The event’s theme is “Don’t give up, make it happen.”When: 5:30 - 8 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21Where: Featherbed Lane Elementary School, 6700 Richardson Rd., 21207 Contact: Renee Johnson, 410.887.1302
What: Milbrook Elementary will hold its annual STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Fair Night. SafeRacer projectsand STEM projects from Grades 3, 4, and 5 will be on display. Project winners will be announced. Mrs. Woiak, the science department chair from Western School of Technology, will bring students to share their interactive STEM projects. Handouts and models will be on display for students to complete STEM projects at home.When: 6 – 7 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21 Where: Milbrook Elementary School, 4300 Crest Heights Rd., 21215Contact: JeffTessier, 410.887.1225
What: It’s time for Lutherville Lab’s annual celebration of STEAM – science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. On STEAM Night, intermediate students will share their STEM projects and SafeRacer cars. Student art work is highlighted, and the Steel Drum Band will play. Student artists will teach workshops on drawing, painting, architecture, and sculpture. In addition, students will teach a computer coding class and lead a session highlighting the digital resources available on BCPS One. Working together, families will engage in engineering challenges. Naturalists from Irvine Nature Center will introduce native animals. Finally, students and adults will blend engineering, math, and art as they build catapults to fire paint onto a large canvas to make a collaborative art project. When: 6 – 8 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21 Where: Lutherville Laboratory, 1700 N. York Rd., 21093Contact: Matt Corner, 410.887.7800
What: Staff in the BCPS Office of Music and Dance Education, in partnership with the Baltimore County Commission on Arts and Sciences, will host a free movement workshop with Vincent Thomas of VTDance. This is a fun and rich bonding experience for men and boys (6 years old and up) to explore their values and negotiate consciousness around masculinity. In this physically engaging workshop, fathers, sons, extended family, and other individuals will explore verbal and physical conversations around the topic of masculinity. School administrators and teachers who are interested in dialogue on this topic are also encouraged to attend. The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged. To register, contact Sonia Synkowski at ssynkowski@bcps.org or 443.809.4024. When: 6 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21Where: West Towson Elementary School, 6914 N. Charles St., 21204Contact: Sonia Synkowski, 443.809.4024
What: The Dundalk Chamber of Commerce will hold its 12th Annual Outstanding Teacher Awards and Recognition Dinner. The purpose of this event is to recognize four exemplary teachers - one each from an elementary, middle, and high school located in the Greater Dundalk area of Baltimore County and one from CCBC Dundalk. Each of our four honorees will receive a monetary award from the Chamber and gifts from organizations and businesses in the Dundalk community. When; 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21Where: Hilton Garden Inn, 5015 Campbell Blvd., 21236Contact: Cathy Hurley, 410. 284.3700
What: The BCPS Parentmobile, an award-winning mobile resource center, brings information about at-home learning, the BCPS website, community services, and available supports for families of students with special needs or limited English proficiency. Parents and guardians are invited to visit. No registration is required.When: 6 – 8 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 21 Where: Winand Elementary School, 8301 Scotts Level Rd., 21208 Contact: Wanda Better-Davis, 410.887.0763
What: More than 200 nearly new and gently used formal dresses, jewelry items, and shoes will be available for free for BCPS students preparing to attend an upcoming prom. Every attendee will receive a prom dress and accessory. The event is sponsored by A.S.C.E.N.D., LOV Charities, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Epsilon Omega Chapter (www.akaupsilonepsilonomega.org). A.S.C.E.N.D. is a club at Perry Hall High that is sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Upsilon Epsilon Omega Chapter. To donate items to the event, please contact ASCEND@akaupsilonepsilonomega.org. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.When: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 23, Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., 21236Contact: Andrew Last, 410.887.5108
What:The Randallstown High School Chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD)will host its 3rd Annual Safe Teen Driving Fair.The RHS chapter of SADD is a student-run organization with the sole mission to help keep kids safe, in school, in their neighborhoods, and on the road as they become new drivers.This event is free to the public, andattendees will have the opportunity to participate in driving skills tests and games, obtain useful information on how to stay safe on the road, listen to motivational speakers, and enjoy great food and music.When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 23 (This is an outdoor event. The rain date is Saturday, Apr. 30.)Where: Randallstown High SchoolContact: Susan Ellerbee
What:Loch Raven High will present its inaugural 5K Color Run. Proceeds will benefit the Loch Raven High Class of 2016 Post Prom Party. The $20 entrance fee includes a T-shirt and a color packet for the end-of-the-run "color fun fight!" Food, prizes, and much more will be featured. When: 10 a.m., Saturday, Apr. 23Where: Loch Raven High Stadium, 1212 Cowpens Ave., 21286Contact: 410.241.0125.
What:The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) is offering special Saturday placement testing days for Baltimore County Public Schools’ students. Students interested in enrolling in an Early College Access Program (taking college classes while in high school) and BCPS seniors who will attend CCBC starting in the fall 2016 semester are encouraged to participate. Admissions and financial aid representatives will be available to talk to parents about entry processes and how to pay for college. Seats are limited. Students are asked to register by clicking “CCBC info session” atwww.ccbcmd.edu/infosessions by the deadlines below to secure their testing date. More information is available here. When: Saturday, Apr. 23 registration deadline, Wednesday, Apr. 20) Check-in is from 8:30 to 9:20 a.m., and placement testing begins at 9:30 a.m.Where: CCBC Catonsville Student Services Center, Admissions Office, Suite 150 800 South Rolling Road Baltimore, MD 21228-5317 and CCBC Dundalk Student Services Center, Admissions Office, Room 101F 7200 Sollers Point Road Baltimore, MD 21222-4649Contact:
www.ccbcmd.edu/testingcenterWhat:The annual Elementary Choral and Recorder Festival provides an all-county music experience for elementary school students. Schools can send chorus and/or recorder students. The students spend the day (starting at 8:30 a.m.) rehearsing. A free public concert ends the day. We expect 150 chorus students and 100 recorder students to participate. The guest conductor for the chorus will be Angela Tanner, retired music coordinator for Baltimore County Public Schools and the founder of this annual event. Retired BCPS music teacher Michael Allman will be the guest conductor of the recorder group.When: 2 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 23Where: Perry Hall High School, 4601 Ebenezer Rd., 21236Contact: Amy Cohn, 443.809.4024
What:Boys from Grade 3 to college age young men and their parents are invited to a Third Annual Man Up! Symposium. The event will feature a series of workshops for young men and for parents on a wide range of topics. Breakfast and lunch will be served. The event is presented by the Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., in conjunction with Black Professional Men, Inc. When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, Apr. 23 Where: Woodlawn High School, 1801 Woodlawn Dr., 21207Contact: embodi@bcacdeltas.org
What:All Baltimore County Public Schools students who will be in Grades 9 – 12 during the 2016 – 2017 school year can apply to participate in the BCPS Chinese Cultural Exchange Program. Through this program, students spend six weeks in China (typically from mid-May through early July) attending special classes and visiting historic and cultural sites. The information night will provide more information about the program and the application process. Students and parents are encouraged to attend together. Participation in the program does not require being able to speak or having studied the Chinese language. The cost for participation in the program is approximately $2,600. Scholarships are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. When: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Apr. 28Where: Baltimore County Public Schools Headquarters, Greenwood Campus, 6901 N. Charles St., Building E, Room 114, Towson 21204Contact: The Office of World Languages, 443-809-6756

What: All Baltimore County Public Schools students who will be in Grades 9 – 12 during the 2016 – 2017 school year can apply to participate in the BCPS Chinese Cultural Exchange Program. Through this program, students spend six weeks in China (typically from mid-May through early July) attending special classes and visiting historic and cultural sites. The information night will provide more information about the program and the application process. Students and parents are encouraged to attend together. When: Thursday, Apr. 28, 2016, at 6:30 p.m.Where: Baltimore County Public Schools Headquarters, Greenwood Campus, 6901 N. Charles St., Building E, Room 114, Towson 21204Background: This is the 10th year for the BCPS China Cultural Exchange program with Tie Yi (First Railway) School in Xi’an, China. The partnership involves students from each school district living with families in the community and attending school in the host country for a six to eight week period. While in China, BCPS students reside with the families of Chinese students. Two days each week, the students take field trips. When the students are in school, they take English classes with Chinese students. They also take special classes in Chinese language, art, cooking, music, and physical education. Participation in the program does not require being able to speak or having studied the Chinese language. The cost for participation in the program is approximately $2,600. Scholarships are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals.

What: BCPS Superintendent Dr. S. Dallas Dance will hold his second student town hall of the school year for middle and high school students. The town hall will allow students from schools in eastern and central Baltimore County to express their viewpoints on education and school-related topics of their choosing. The event may be viewed through live-streaming on BCPS-TV (Comcast Cable Channel 73 and Verizon FiOS Channel 34 in Baltimore County) and the BCPS website, http://www.bcps.org/video/liveStream.html. When & Where: Thursday, Apr. 21 Loch Raven High School, 1212 Cowpens Ave., 21286 Meeting with high school students begins at 10:30 a.m. Meeting with middle school students begins at 12 noon. Background: During the town hall, student participants will ask and discuss unscripted and unedited questions. The exchanges provide Dr. Dance with the opportunity to learn directly from students about how best to address specific school concerns, needs, and issues. High schools participating are: Chesapeake, Crossroads Center, Dundalk, Eastern Technical, George Washington Carver Center, Kenwood, Loch Raven, Overlea, Parkville, Patapsco, Perry Hall, Rosedale Alternative, Sparrows Point, and Towson. Middle schools participating are: Crossroads Center, Deep Creek, Dumbarton, Dundalk, General John Stricker, Golden Ring, Holabird, Loch Raven Academy, Middle River, Parkville, Perry Hall, Pine Grove, Ridgely, Rosedale Alternative, Sparrows Point, and Stemmers Run. Members of the media are welcome to attend.

What: The Towson Lakeshore Learning store will host a free STEM Night featuring the BCPS Parentmobile. The event will incorporate a variety of activities for elementary age participants related to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). In addition, parents and students can visit the Parentmobile, a nationally award-winning converted school bus that provides educational resources to parents and community members as it travels to schools, events, neighborhoods, and businesses. The STEM event also will provide parents with information about how they can incorporate STEM activities at home. When: Thursday, Apr. 28, 2016, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.Where: Lakeshore Learning store 1620 E. Joppa Road, Towson 21286Background: Lakeshore Learning Materials is a leading developer and retailer of top-quality materials for early childhood education programs, elementary schools and homes nationwide. To learn more, please visit LakeshoreLearning.com.

TOWSON – Missy Fanshaw, principal at Rodgers Forge Elementary School, and Sandra Reid, principal at Pikesville High School, were named the Elementary and Secondary Principals of the Year at tonight’s Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year Ceremony. “Missy and Sandra are two of the most enthusiastic and dedicated school leaders I have ever met,” said Superintendent S. Dallas Dance. “These two ladies exemplify the importance of having steadfast and committed leaders at each schoolhouse in Baltimore County. Both have created a cohesive and energetic school culture while emphasizing growth and student achievement.” In addition to Fanshaw and Reid, four other finalists were honored during Wednesday’s ceremony. They are: Elementary:

• Kevin Connelly, Villa Cresta Elementary School
• Lois Stokes, Randallstown Elementary School

Secondary:

• Harvey Chambers, Windsor Mill Middle School
• Marquis Dwarte, Overlea High School

The Principal of the Year program is in its fourth year and was begun by Dr. Dance. The selection process depends upon nominations from the schools. This is the first year that BCPS has honored both an elementary and a secondary principal of the year. Principals of the Year receive a variety of awards and gifts from the school system, the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools, and Baltimore County's business community. The BCPS Teacher and Principal of the Year program thanks the Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools and NTA Life for their support. The Education Foundation of Baltimore County would like to thank its partners: Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Boscov’s, Brick Bodies, Farrell Maddox, Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning, Imagine Easy Solutions, LLC, Jean Blosser, Lakeshore Learning, LEGO Education, Lifetouch, Miss Shirley’s Café, Misti Burmeister, Ocean Pride, Office Depot/Office Max, Padonia Park Club, Richard Patenaude, Santoni’s Marketplace and Catering, Smyth Jewelers, The Carr Advisory Group, and Under Armour.