At Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting, the Montgomery County BOE voted 7-1 to adopt a policy that will allow MCPS to shift to virtual instruction instead of canceling classes for traditional snow days. The policy went into effect immediately and covers the remainder of the current school year.
The BOE says the reason for possible virtual learning days is to prevent having to extend the school year.
Student school board member Hana O’Looney was the only person to vote in opposition. “There’s a lot more interest from students in extending the school year than getting rid of inclement weather days,” O’Looney said.
Schools will not automatically switch to virtual learning on inclement weather days, and the decision will be made on a case-to-case basis. When the decision is made for virtual learning, classes will operate on a two-hour delay schedule to allow students and teachers to adjust accordingly, according to Caitlynn Peetz at Bethesda Beat.
MCPS will send a “get ready” message to families when inclement weather is in the forecast.
Montgomery County Public Schools released a survey last week about the possibility of virtual learning on days when schools are closed due to inclement weather last.
Per the Maryland State Department of Education, all school systems are required to have at least 180 instructional days per year. With inclement weather, multiple school system closures may require adjustments to the school year calendar (e.g., extending the year, using other identified days). MCPS is planning for options that allow for virtual instruction on inclement weather closure days. While virtual instruction cannot replace time in the classroom, MCPS believes it is essential to continue to provide access to learning opportunities. Your feedback on this intent will help inform the district’s implementation plan.
Peetz reports that the response to the survey was roughly evenly split. The demographic breakdown of respondents can be seen below, via Dana Tofig.
The response to the MCPS survey on snow days vs. virtual instruction. White students represent 27% of all @MCPS students, but make up nearly half the responants. Not representative. @mocoboe pic.twitter.com/0NbJvD4g0O
— Dana Tofig (@dtofig) February 1, 2022
Recent Stories
MCPS High School Sports Scores for Apr 24, 2024 (powered by www.MoCoAI.com):
The State Board voted unanimously on April 24, 2024, to appoint Dr. Carey M. Wright as the Maryland State Superintendent of Schools for the term to begin July 1, 2024….
Montgomery County Police are investigating an attempted sexual assault that occurred on Tuesday, April 23.
Montgomery County Police responded to a shooting on Wednesday, April 24, in Germantown.
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!!!
