On Tuesday, the Montgomery County Board of Education (Karla Silvestre), Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS Superintendent Monifa McKnight), Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA President Jennifer Martin), Service Employees International Union Local 500 (SEIU Local 500 President Pia Morrison), and Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals (President Christine Handy) wrote the following joint letter to the Montgomery County Council concerning the funding of the MCPS operating budget:
“Dear Council President Glass and Councilmembers:
As you are faced with important budgetary decisions in the coming days, we respectfully write to provide you with important context ahead of the full Council’s consideration of the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Operating Budget. On Thursday, May 4, the Education and Culture Committee recommended a floor of funding a 7-increment increase and a ceiling of funding a 9-increment increase. We collectively have analyzed the Committee’s action and considered the impact on the MCPS budget and our ability to fund negotiated agreements.
For over five months, we have bargained night and day in good faith to determine how to fairly compensate the MCPS workforce with wages that are competitive with surrounding jurisdictions and county government, recruit the best and brightest, and retain employees. Thanks to this collaborative hard work, all associations have reached tentative economic agreements with MCPS; however, at least an 8-increment increase is needed to fund our negotiated agreements.
Additional funding greater than an 8-increment increase remains essential to support the requested accelerators, including Blueprint requirements, that the Board tentatively adopted to equitably improve academic outcomes, differentiate resources based on needs, and better allow the system to achieve the results and accountability our community expects.
Thank you again for your partnership as we seek to meet the needs of our students, staff, and community. We look forward to our ongoing collaboration.
Sincerely,
| Karla Silvestre President, Board of Education |
Monifa B. McKnight, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools |
| Christine Handy, Ed.D. President, Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals |
Jennifer Martin President, Montgomery County Education Association |
| Pia Morrison President, Service Employees International Union Local 500 |
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
