During this morning’s County Council meeting, Interim Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight and Board of Education Vice President Brenda Wolfe gave an update on MCPS’ COVID-19 response.
McKnight said that an announcement will be coming later today regarding more schools going virtual beginning this Thursday, January 20th. The schools were not listed during the meeting.
Meeting Notes:
Brenda Wolfe:
-Expressed appreciation towards students, staff, and community for their passionate advocacy for students.
-Challenges and obstacles shifted during pandemic.
-No central agreement on how to proceed, must listen to a vast array of voices.
-Listening closely to what health, education, and operational experts say.
-BOE is committed to an open conversation.
Monifa McKnight:
-Began by thanking the Council and saying she was deeply appreciative towards leaders of the county and families.
-Pandemic has taken a lot of patience, 20 months later still shifting and making adjustments.
-Unlike anything our school system has experienced in modern history.
-MCPS has been a leader in the response to COVID-19. 53,000 students served during summer school program last year.
-Increase in pay to substitute teachers as part of alleviating shortage challenges.
-There is no specific threshold for automatic transition to virtual learning.
-Multiple factors to determine if schools go virtual, including staff absences, student absences, unserved bus routes, unfilled substitute positions, and COVID-19 case rates.
-MCPS is requesting support from DHHS (or another government agency) to assume all responsibility for contact tracing.
-MCPS is asking Montgomery County to provide 190K rapid tests every other week in order to provide kit to every student and every staff member.
Recent Stories
The Montgomery County Board of Education (Board) continues to seek public input as part of the nationwide search for a new superintendent of schools.
Through a grant program that allowed MCPS to select five schools to receive leadership training for student athletes, MCPS worked in partnership with Lead ‘Em Up- a nationally recognized leadership…
Travel + Leisure a travel magazine and website based in New York City with over 4.8 million readers, according to its corporate media kit, has released a list of the “25 Best Beaches…
According to Montgomery County Police, a 16-year-old Clarksburg High School student has been arrested and charged with possession of a firearm.
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!!!
