MCPS Community Message: A Letter from Superintendent Dr. Monifa B. McKnight, Athletic Safety Plans Are Working

On Wednesday, September 28th, MCPS Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight sent the following message out to the community regarding athletic safety plans:

“Dear Montgomery County Public Schools community members:

I am writing to follow up on the actions we announced last week to promote safety and a positive environment at our athletic events. When we announced these measures, we understood it would take the entire community coming together on behalf of our schools and athletics programs to keep them safe and positive.

This past Friday, I saw some good-spirited, high-energy games, where student-athletes competed at a high level and spectators enjoyed watching them. This positive outcome did not happen by accident. Our students called on their peers to uphold good sportsmanship and a respectful environment; staff, parents and volunteers modeled positive behavior and everyone enjoyed a safe and exciting series of athletic events, which are an important part of our school cultures.

To achieve that outcome, the most significant changes that we implemented last week included:

  • Enhancing and elevating existing game management protocols by separating spectators, having students and spectators sit in stands, denying re-entry into games, gaining better control of the sidelines and better managing crowds.

  • Ensuring that elementary and middle school students, as well as high school students not enrolled in the two participating schools, are accompanied by adult chaperones

  • Verifying student identification prior to the game

  • Equipping Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) security with an enhanced plan for football games, including collaboration with police and community partners.

  • Empowering the student voice, including through a public service announcement that will be distributed later this week for display on the morning announcements.

We believe that these policies target the areas that we most needed to address. We have heard some concern from students and parents about students’ inability to attend games in which their school is not participating without an adult chaperone. While we understand that students may take an interest in other schools, it is important to underscore that the policies are in place so that we have a relationship with the students who are at our events. Relationships are the most important tool we have to anticipate and respond to any incidents. We will continue to monitor and assess our program and events, consistent with the decision guidelines outlined in the Athletics Safety Plan. Other local and national districts are implementing similar plans and we are leading the way in demonstrating best practices to ensure safety.

For more information, please refer to the latest R.A.I.S.E. Report, the seasonal newsletter for MCPS Athletics.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Monifa B. McKnight
Superintendent of Schools”

Recent Stories

Montgomery County Police are advising residents in Ashton to be aware of their surroundings after a coyote was spotted in the area.

“We know nothing hits the spot quite like a fresh, melt-in-your-mouth doughnut paired with your go-to McCafé order…and today, McDonald’s and Krispy Kreme have a sweet update for doughnut fans…

The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck, a traveling food truck selling Hello Kitty-themed treats, will be in nearby Columbia this weekend (Saturday, March 30th) and will make a stop at Pike…

  Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a fire in the in the 1700blk of Forest Glen Rd in Silver Spring at approximately 6:40am on Thursday, March…

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!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list