MCPS: Six Things to Know for Thursday, May 5

Here are six things to know for Thursday, May 5. They include recognition of our great teachers, mental health resource news, a May 7 community engagement event with Dr. McKnight and summer program registration.

1. It’s Teacher Appreciation Week
   In MCPS, we celebrate all of our outstanding employees that work for our students but this week, we highlight teachers. Our teachers focus on developing the skills and knowledge that students will need for success, including academics, creative problem-solving skills and social-emotional competencies.

   (See the message Interim Superintendent Dr. McKnight sent to MCPS staff.)

   You can see the great work our teachers do by viewing this video highlighting this year’s Teacher of the Year finalists and the winner, 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year Johnathan Dunn of Sherwood High School. (Click on the image to play the video or use this link.)

   

2. It’s Celebration Time in MCPS
   It’s that time of year when we celebrate with graduation, proms, transition ceremonies, and appreciation events of all kinds. This, it goes without saying, requires us to “remain vigilant” and do all we can to not spread COVID-19. Consider wearing masks at these events, hold events outdoors and social distance. The virus is still in our community and it is up to all of us to ensure the health and safety of all of us.
3. Find Mental Health and Wellness Resources Online
   MCPS is committed to the physical, social and psychological well-being of its more than 160,000 students and 24,000 employees. You can find valuable district information and community resources for students, staff and families on the MCPS homepage. It’s especially important that we care for our mental, emotional and physical health. We hope you will find support for your school, work, home and personal concerns. Learn more about the important positions that support mental health and wellness in MCPS and the investments made to support that work.
   • MCPS Homepage
   • MCPS Search
   • MCPS Mental Health and Wellness Resources by School
4. Community Engagement Event with Dr. McKnight this Saturday, May 7
   The final  All Together Now: Putting Our Students First community engagement event is set for May 7. These conversations are bringing together families, students, staff and the community to discuss the district’s strengths, priorities and opportunities for how MCPS can better serve its students.
   Details:
   • Saturday, May 7, 11 a.m., Paint Branch High School cafeteria, 14121 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville (This event will include free COVID-19 vaccinations and health screenings. Flyer English / Spanish)

   RSVP is encouraged.
   Bus transportation from the following locations:

   Bus#1	Bus#2
   Takoma Park ES 9:45 White Oak MS 10:05 Cloverly ES 10:15 Paint Branch HS cafeteria 11:00 am	Woodlin ES 9:30 Argyle MS 9:50 Brooke Grove ES 10:05 Paint Branch HS cafeteria 11:00 am

5. Registration for Most MCPS Summer Programs Now Open
   MCPS is offering free programs for elementary, middle and high school students this summer. Most programs will be in July, and high school credit courses and the Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) program in Title I elementary schools will be offered in June, July and August. Generally, in-person programs will take place in the morning through midday. Afternoon programs sponsored by county and municipal agencies and outside providers will be available in some schools. Learn more here or visit the Summer Programs website.
6. Celebrate Reading at the Gaithersburg Book Festival on May 21
   The 2022 Gaithersburg Book Festival is coming May 21. Join this annual celebration of books, authors and literary excellence at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Attendance and parking are free. Visit the website.

Montgomery County Public Schools