MCPS: Seven Things to Know for Thursday, June 9

Per Montgomery County Public Schools:
Here are seven things to know for Thursday, June 9. They include reminders about COVID-19, free vaccination clinics, an Out-of-School Time survey, Antiracist Focus Groups and more.

1. Positive COVID-19 Cases Coming Down
   This week, the county Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) data dashboard shows a drop in positive case numbers. This is in part because of the important efforts of the entire community who have been diligent in wearing masks, washing hands and testing. While cases are declining, CDC and DHHS metrics still show Montgomery County with a moderate rate of transmission. DHHS still encourages (not requires) that you wear a mask, get tested when you have symptoms, use hand sanitizer/wash hands, and physically distance when possible. Masks may be required in classrooms or grade levels with an outbreak of COVID cases. Let’s keep up the great work in our collective fight against COVID-19.
2. If My Child Tests Positive, Where Do I Report It?
   We know our mitigation efforts are effective when we are able to monitor positive cases. Some families have said they don’t know where or how to report a positive case. The link for the online reporting form is on the MCPS homepage and on every school’s homepage.
   COVID-19 Google Reporting Form
3. COVID-19 Shots are Free and Readily Available
   Our partners at DHHS will have clinics Saturday, June 11, at Paint Branch HIgh School and Sunday, June 12, at Shady Grove Middle School. Come on out and get your booster, first shot or second shot! They are free! Getting vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 remains the safest and best way to avoid getting sick from the virus. Make an appointment here.
4. Share Your Thoughts on Opportunities for Students When School Is Not in Session
   Are you aware that there are fun activities and opportunities available for students on non-instructional days? MCPS would like to know what the experience was like for those who participated and, for those who did not, what opportunities they would take advantage of. Parents and guardians of students in Grades 4 through 11 are invited to complete this survey to help improve next year’s program. The survey will be open through June 30.

   MCPS piloted the Out-of-School Time program to provide students and families with engaging options for students on days when school was not in session. These in-person and/or virtual activities supported academic skills, physical and emotional wellness, art and digital learning skills.

   Learn more about the Out-of-School Time program.

5. Share Your Experience With Race and Racism in MCPS

   Please participate in a focus group for parents, guardians, and caregivers. This is an opportunity for your voice to be heard! As part of the Antiracist System Audit, MCPS is looking for parents and guardians from different racial and cultural backgrounds to share their experiences. These will be 60 to 90 minutes on Zoom. The conversations are completely confidential.

   We are still looking for parents, guardians, or caregivers for the following sessions. Please register for the session that is most appropriate for you. Click here to register. 

   Asian	Wednesday, June 15 from 6:00-7:30
   Black/African American	Monday, June 13 from 6:00-7:30
   Latino/Hispanic/Latinx	Wednesday, June 15 from 6:00-7:30
   Middle Eastern and North African	Monday, June 13 from 6:00-7:30
   Native American	Wednesday, June 15 from 6:00-7:30
   Parents who have children five years old or younger.	Tuesday, June 14 from 6:00-7:30
   White	Tuesday, June 14 from 6:00-7:30

6. MCPS Budget Approved for Next School Year / Funds Important Resources to Advance Teaching and Learning
   The Montgomery County Board of Education on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, adopted a $2.92 billion Operating Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. This is an increase of $137.9 million (5 percent) from the current FY 2022 budget. The budget will allow Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) to provide a continuation of key services, provide critical support to students for mental health and well-being and cover pandemic increases on operating costs.

   Other important key investments in the FY 2023 Operating Budget include:

   • Full-time staff development teacher in every school
   • Full-time reading specialist teacher in every elementary school
   • Critical staffing in support of new schools and additional school space
   • Welcoming newcomer students to MCPS
   • Expanding early childhood learning opportunities
   • Strengthening career pathways for employees

   Read more about the approved budget.

7. Mental Health and Wellness Resources Available On MCPS Website
   You can find valuable district information and community resources about mental health and wellness for students, staff and families on the MCPS homepage.
   • MCPS Homepage
   • MCPS Mental Health and Wellness Resources by School
   • The National Institute for Mental Health offers these simple suggestions

Montgomery County Public Schools