MCPS: Seven Things To Know for Thursday, February 17

MCPS has sent out a community message with seven things to know for today, Thursday, Feb. 17.

They include updates on the recommended FY 2023 operating budget, information about COVID-19 rapid test kits, inclement weather make-up plans, safety and social-emotional supports and more.

  1. Strategic Additions to the FY 2023 Operating Budget Investments Discussed with the Board of Education
    On Feb. 14, the Board of Education received an update on the FY 2023 recommended operating budget, including:

    • additional investments to support security in schools;
    • Supports for students’ and staff’s social-emotional well-being and mental health, including telehealth services;
    • Communications and community engagement enhancements;
    • and more.

    You can view the discussion online and review the presentation. These investments would be supported by:

  2. Masks Still Required in MCPS Schools and Offices
    Although Montgomery County is scheduled to lift mask mandates after Feb. 21, MCPS currently is maintaining its mask mandate for students and staff. The school system will review all available information and consult with local health officials about any change to this mandate in the coming days. Any changes to guidance will be communicated immediately.
  3. COVID-19 At-Home Rapid Tests Being Distributed
    MCPS continues to distribute rapid test kits to all students and staff every 3 weeks through the month of March.  These kits are an important part of ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus.Staff and parents of students are reminded to report positive test results through the MCPS COVID-19 Reporting Tool. (Reminder: these are nasal (nose) rapid test kits, please refer to the directions included in the kits prior to use)
  4. VIDEO: directions for use of COVID-19 rapid test kit
  5. Inclement Weather Day Make-Up Plan to be Released Next Week
    MCPS closed schools due to inclement weather on Jan. 3, 4, 7 and 20, in addition to adding a planned system wide closure on Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2021. These closures mean that MCPS must make up three instructional days to meet the required 180 days of instruction. The plan for making up the days will be shared with families next week.
  6. Safety, Security and Well-Being Parent Voice Forums
    As part of the ongoing well-being, safety, and security review in all MCPS schools, district staff will be engaging parents from various school communities in the coming weeks in parent interest forums.
    The conversations will cover:

    • Mental Health and Social-Emotional Well-Being
    • Creating Safe and Equitable School Environments
    • Safety, Security and Community Engagement Officer Program Enhancements

    More information will be shared as forums are scheduled. Learn more about the work..

  7. Upcoming Antiracist Audit Survey Reminder
    All students in Grade 4 through Grade 12 will take an age-appropriate, anonymous survey in school between March 1 and March 31. Each school will decide on the date to administer the survey.

  8. No MCPS Schools Entering 10-Day Virtual Learning Period
    No schools will transition to virtual learning next week. MCPS will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19 and school operations on in-person learning and, if necessary, identify schools for temporary virtual learning.

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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.

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