Montgomery County Public Schools released the following community message on March 10:
Here are five things to know for Thursday, March 10. They include a reminder that masks are now optional in MCPS schools and facilities, a reminder to complete the Antiracist Audit survey, COVID-19 take-home test kit information, a reminder that COVID-19 vaccinations and testing are still important and information about Prekindergarten and Head Start registration.
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- Masks Now Optional in MCPS Schools and Facilities
The Board of Education voted on March 8 to make masks optional in MCPS. This change went into effect immediately. Now students and staff can make an individual choice about whether or not to wear a mask. On or Off, It’s Just Me. Be Kind and Respect My Mask Choice is the message we’ll be using to reinforce kindness, respect and understanding for each individual’s mask choice.
- Masks Now Optional in MCPS Schools and Facilities
This video from the principal at Ritchie Park Elementary School shares this message.
- Complete the Antiracist Audit Survey by March 31
Families, we need your help to better understand how our schools and the school district are doing in ongoing work to address racial and systemic barriers in MCPS. We encourage you to fill out this survey before March 31. You can use your mobile device or computer. Learn more about the MCPS Antiracist Audit here. The survey is anonymous and available in seven languages.
Family letter in all languages
English / español / 中文 / français / Português / 한국어 / tiếng Việt / አማርኛ - COVID-19 Rapid Take-Home Test Kits Being Distributed
MCPS continues to distribute rapid COVID-19 test kits to all students and staff every three weeks through March. The next distribution is planned for the week of March 21. These kits are an important part of the ongoing effort to minimize the impact of COVID-19.
To help you use the test correctly and to know when to use them, use the following resources.
VIDEO: Directions for use of COVID-19 rapid test kit
Learn more at this website and review the flyers:
English / español / 中文 / français / Português / 한국어 / tiếng Việt / አማርኛ(Reminder: these are nasal (nose) rapid test kits; please refer to the directions included in the kits prior to use.) - COVID-19 Testing and Vaccinations Remain Important
Testing: In-school COVID-19 testing is an important tactic to mitigate spread of the virus. MCPS has in-school random testing for asymptomatic students and rapid testing for students who show symptoms. Parents must give permission for this testing by completing this form.
Learn more about in-school COVID-19 testing.
Vaccinations: Individuals 5 and older are eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccination. They are free, safe and readily available. The vaccine is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and to keep COVID-19 from surging in your community. Learn more here. - Prekindergarten/Head Start Registration Now Open
Registration is open for Prekindergarten and Head Start for the 2022-2023 school year. Children must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2022, and families must be income-eligible to apply. Families can register their children online. Additionally, weekday and weekend locations are open through March 31 for families that want to register in person. For more information about eligibility guidelines, required documents and how to register, call 240-740-4530 or visit the MCPS website.
Recent Stories
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) and Rockville City Police responded to a collision involving a vehicle into a tree on Sunday, May 5, in Rockville.
Detectives from the Montgomery County Department of Police – Special Victims Investigations Division (SVID) are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Asia Renee Jackson, a missing 14-year-old from Damascus.
Montgomery County Police responded to a shooting in the 18900blk of Mills Choice Rd in Montgomery Village on Saturday, May.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a collision in the 800blk of Rockville Pike on Sunday, May 5.
FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
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!!!
