MCPS has sent a letter providing an update to the community of the new process for informing the community when weather requires an operational status change and when a closure might justify a shift to virtual instruction. The color-coded messages and additional information can be seen in the full letter below:
“Dear MCPS Students, Families and Staff,
As we now settle into the middle of the winter weather season, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is improving its process for informing the community when weather requires an operational status change and when a closure might justify a shift to virtual instruction. When it is determined that conditions are unsafe for students and staff, we have six operational status options, which will now be reported by easy-to-understand, color-coded messages. They are:
The safety of students and staff remains the top priority, and MCPS understands the inconvenience these situations can cause for families and staff. Operational changes due to emergency weather conditions are only made when necessary and after careful review.
In making a decision, MCPS leadership reviews information from national and local weather experts, local emergency management officials, and the operating status of other government and neighboring school districts. Additionally, leadership gathers information from state highway administrators and relies on key MCPS personnel who inspect the conditions of roads, sidewalks, MCPS parking lots and bus lanes.
Virtual Learning
Code Purple, which will indicate a shift to virtual learning, will ensure teaching and learning continues during weather emergencies. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has provided this opportunity to local school systems, and the Montgomery County Board of Education approved the virtual plan during its Jan. 12 business meeting. The approved plan has been sent to MSDE and this option can be used after receiving final approval. Available technology and previous virtual learning experience will enable MCPS to continue working with students even during inclement weather and emergencies. There are essential guidelines so staff and students can be fully prepared. These guidelines include:
- Is the impacting event predictable?
- Is the impacting event part of a multi-day scenario (such as a blizzard) or isolated to a day?
- Can prior preparation and communication with families, students and staff take place?
Communication
Communication is vital to ensuring that students, staff and families can easily transition. MCPS will follow these steps to let students, families and staff know:
- A “Get Ready” announcement (meaning weather is imminent) will be made districtwide.
- The decision to offer virtual learning will be made by noon the day before any potential weather.
- Student Well-Being Teams will contact identified students and families as a reminder about virtual start times.
- Schools will message families to remind them that it is a required school day and how to log in to classes.
When the weather is a concern, MCPS aims to ensure you are kept up to date with timely and accurate information. Please be sure to monitor weather-related delays, closings, and early dismissals and cooperate with school personnel as we work to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Check your ParentVUE accounts and, if needed, update the contact information. This will ensure you receive all necessary school operational status updates.
Montgomery County Public Schools”
Recent Stories
To address spacing needs in the mid-county region, planning and construction has been approved for the new Crown High School which is scheduled to open in the Fall of 2027….
Montgomery County Public Schools issued the following community message on Tuesday, May 7:
“It’s the funniest thing – we can’t put a marker or a pen down for a minute or we will end up with smiley faces everywhere,” said Laci Swann, Justice…
John Vigna, 57, of Silver Spring, a former Montgomery County Public Schools teacher who pleaded guilty in March to one count of Sexual Child Abuse and three counts of Sexual…
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!!!
