MCPS Community Message: 8 Things to Know for February 3

Per MCPS:

Dear MCPS Community,

Here are the eight things you need to know for Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. They include the possibility of transitioning to virtual instruction on inclement weather days, an update on schools entering a 10-day virtual learning period, upcoming surveys for the antiracist audit, information about tutoring services and more.

1. Inclement Weather Virtual Learning Approved
   MCPS will consider transitioning to synchronous virtual learning when school buildings are closed due to inclement weather. These are days when the district would otherwise determine that a system closure without instruction would be needed for safety reasons. The Board of Education approved this plan on Feb. 1, and virtual instruction days count towards the minimum required days of instruction under Maryland law. Learn more here:
   • Community letter
   • Website
2. NO MCPS Schools Entering 10-Day Virtual Learning Period
   No additional schools have been identified as needing to transition to virtual learning for next week. MCPS will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on school operations and, if necessary, identify schools for temporary virtual learning in the future.The four schools currently in remote learning, Harmony Hills ES, A. Mario Loiederman MS, Pine Crest ES, Wheaton Woods ES and the autism program at Westover ES will return to in-person learning on Feb. 10.
3. Antiracist Audit Surveys Coming in March
   MCPS has been actively reviewing its policies and practices through its Antiracist System Audit. Over the past few months, staff have met with students, families, staff and community members to get input on the audit and to hear concerns and questions. The next phase will include surveys and focus groups with our stakeholders. More information is available here. Other key details to know about the audit include that:
   • The audit IS a comprehensive, district-wide review of our practices and policies. Read about the different areas of the audit.
   • The audit IS about fact-finding. Action will be determined based on the results of the audit.
   • The audit IS NOT about pointing fingers. We will not condone the blaming or shaming of anyone, or any group, for the actions of others.

   The next phase will include surveys and focus groups with our stakeholders. More information is available here.

4. Creating Safe and Equitable Schools
   Following the incident of gun violence at Col. Zadok Magruder High School last month, MCPS is conducting a thorough review of safety and security in all schools. Teams are working to:
   • Set a vision for the safety, security and well-being of students and staff
   • Develop proactive practices to support equitable school environments that promote social, emotional, and psychological safety
   • Conduct a thorough review of the current Montgomery County Police Community Engagement Officer (CEO) program and MCPS’ current safety and security staffing, structures and processes
   • Review the mental and emotional health services MCPS provides, and
   • Review the Joint Incident Command Structure that ensures appropriate and immediate response by MCPS central office, schools and local law enforcement during emergencies

   Read more.

5. Free, On-Demand Online Tutoring Available for Students in Grades K-12
   All students now have access to free tutoring and 24/7 homework help to support success in their current courses/grade level, through two new tutoring providers: FEV Tutor and Tutor Me Education. All students have access to these virtual tutoring services through their MCPS Google account, using Clever. Some students will also be referred directly by their local school. Learn more about online tutoring.
6. In-School Vaccination Clinics Will Be Held on Feb. 5 and 6
   MCPS is partnering with the county’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Care For Your Health to offer a number of free vaccination clinics for children at schools and county sites.To see available sites and to register visit this website.
7. Comments on Proposed Amendments to Student Discipline Policy Due Feb. 7
   The Board of Education is seeking comments on proposed amendments to Board Policy JGA, Student Discipline, to provide a philosophy of behavior intervention that is rehabilitative, restorative, educational and implemented fairly and equitably with clear, appropriate and consistent expectations and consequences to address student behavior in violation of the Student Code of Conduct in MCPS. Learn more and provide your feedback.
8. Spectator Limitations Adjusted at MCPS Extracurricular Events
   Beginning Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022, spectator limitations will be adjusted from 25 percent of facility capacity to 50 percent of facility capacity for all indoor extracurricular events. Masks are still required inside all MCPS schools and facilities. Review COVID-19 athletics information at this website. You may also refer to the Return to RAISE Athletics newsletter.