We value the partnership we share with our parents, caregivers, community members, and stakeholders in providing our students with the best possible education, so that they emerge from MCPS college, career, and community ready. MCPS follows all Maryland and federal Department of Education laws and uses a process that aligns with the school system’s core values when choosing supplemental curriculum materials for students in all grades. We encourage all interested stakeholders to read the information provided here about the LGBTQ+ inclusive books that have been introduced as supplementary material for grade level standards instruction.
-Montgomery County Public Schools”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Is there an LGBTQ+ curriculum in elementary school? There is no LGBTQ+ curriculum in elementary school.
Can parents opt out and request an alternative text/assignment? Students and families may not choose to opt out of engaging with any instructional materials other than certain units within the state-mandated health curriculum as specifically permitted by Maryland law.
Must all teachers use the LGBTQ+ inclusive texts and resources? Yes, and teachers may choose from a variety of inclusive texts within identified literacy units.
Are principals and teachers required to notify the parents/guardians before introducing the LGBTQ+ inclusive texts to students? Is it required for teachers to send a letter home before the books are read? It is our policy that we teach with diverse representation; therefore, it will not be possible to notify parents every time we introduce a character representing the diversity of our community in our curriculum resources or text.
Can I keep my child home when students are learning from LGBTQ+ inclusive texts in class? Attendance expectations and requirements are outlined in MCPS Regulation: JEA-RA Attendance
Why should my child learn about gender identity and sexuality at school? There is no content instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in elementary school. The books include a diversified representation of people. Inclusive books support a student’s ability to empathize, connect, and collaborate with diverse peers and encourage respect for all.
Isn’t my child too young to be learning about gender and sexual identity? There is no explicit instruction on gender and sexual identity in elementary school as part of content instruction. Diversifying texts in elementary school will help young people develop empathy for a diverse group of people and learn about identities that might relate to their families or community members. Research also shows that inclusive materials are a key component of a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ students and increase positive psychosocial and educational outcomes.
Ideas about gender diversity go against the values we are instilling in my child at home. Are you trying to teach my child to reject these values? Students are learning the curriculum indicators outlined for each grade level. For example, “determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.”
How were the books selected? For information on this process, visit the evaluation and selection page of the MCPS website.
The full document released by MCPS this week can be seen here. Courtesy of MCPS.
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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!!!
