News from Baltimore County Public Schools, Maryland

BCPS News Tips: The Week of November 14-21, 2009: American Education Week is November 16-20 Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools

communications@bcps.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:10:24 GMT

Saturday, November 14

Loch Raven High School presents "Anne Frank and Me" on stage

Loch Raven High School students will present the comedy/drama production of "Anne Frank and Me" by Cherie Bennett with Jeff Gottesfeld at 7:00 p.m. and in a matinee show at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15. The national award-winning new American production, which was a hit in New York theaters, concerns the awakening of a modern teen Holocaust denier. The play not only explores the period of the Holocaust but also challenges play-goers to look at the world today. As part of their preparation for the play, the cast and crew took a field trip to the Holocaust Museum in Washington and visited with a Holocaust survivor. Director Lisa Coyne has coordinated play preparation with the Baltimore County Public Schools social studies office as well. Tickets are $5.00, and the play will be performed at the school, which is located at 1212 Cowpens Avenue in Towson.

Contact: Lisa Coyne, Ed Kitlowski, or Bonnie Lambert, Loch Raven High School, 410.887.3525

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts presents its first holiday dance concert

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts invites its school community to the school's first holiday dance concert. The Royal Performing Arts Center, under the direction of Denise Ebert, will collaborate with students in the school's dance magnet program to celebrate the beauty of the season with a variety of master work dances, student works, and excerpts from the Nutcracker. Admission to the 7:00 p.m. performance is $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. The school is located at 8100 Wise Avenue in Dundalk.

Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

Monday, November 16

American Education Week kicks off in Baltimore County Public Schools

Schools across Baltimore County will celebrate American Education Week 2009 with a variety of activities designed to showcase for parents and the community the teaching and learning going on each day in every classroom. Nearly every school in the county will offer open houses, classroom visitations, and other activities to encourage parents, grandparents, and community members to visit schools. During American Education Week, most schools set aside specific times for parents to visit their children's classrooms. In addition, many schools also host special events, including book fairs, reading nights, book swaps, music lessons, and more. Nationally, American Education Week, sponsored by the National Education Association, has been celebrated for 88 years. The theme for American Education Week is "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility." Please contact individual schools for specific events, times, and details.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Office of Communications, 410.887.6111

Baltimore County Public Schools High School Honors Concert presents a gala celebration of the BCPS music program

The annual Baltimore County Public Schools High School Honors Concert will be held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore City at 7:30 p.m. The annual gala performance will highlight the talents of more than 270 high school students selected from an audition process to perform in countywide honors ensembles, such as the High School Honors Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. Conductors will include Joseph Young, a League of American Orchestras Conducting Fellow, of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra; Sun Min Lee, assistant professor of the Westminster Choir College of Rider University; and Dr. Michael Votta, associate professor at the University of the Maryland College Park. Admission to the concert is free, but tickets are required due to limited seating.

Contact: Angela Tanner or Karl Stewart, Office of Music, 410.887.4024

Randallstown Elementary School is "Raving About Reading!"

Randallstown Elementary School will celebrate reading with "Raving About Reading," a family activity in which children will be encouraged to dress as their favorite book characters and bring their favorite stories. Families will meet in the cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. to watch a short skit highlighting the 100 Book Challenge. Students who met program goals will also be recognized and given medals for reading success. Families then will break into grade levels to engage in family reading and short book clubs, share the children's favorite stories, and learn ways to encourage and support reading fluency and comprehension at home. The school is located at 9013 Liberty Road in Randallstown.

Contact: Betsy Book or Lois Stokes, Randallstown Elementary School, 410.887.0746

Eastwood Elementary Magnet School students perform "Stone Soup: A Rock Opera"

Eastwood Elementary Magnet School students in kindergarten through grade 2 will present "Stone Soup: 'A Rock Opera'" at 11:00 a.m. at the school at 428 Westham Way, Dundalk. The play, which is based on the classic folk tale "Stone Soup," imparts lessons on sharing as it tells an entertaining story.

Contact: Tina Pedrick, Joan Brauner, or Cyndy Wachob, Eastwood Elementary Magnet School, 410.887.7034

Perry Hall Elementary School walks for technology

Perry Hall Elementary School, 9021 Belair Road in Perry Hall, will hold its first Technology Walk throughout American Education Week. During the week, each school grade and class will participate in a walk around a 1/3-mile course for an allotted time, both as a healthy physical education activity and as an effort to supplement school funding for educational technology such as projectors, multimedia carts, computers/laptops, and printers. Family and friends attending visitation days throughout the week also will be invited to participate in the activity. Please call the school for specific times and details.

Contact: Stephanie Hendrix Birnbaum or Donna Bergin, Perry Hall Elementary School, 410.887.5105

Tuesday, November 17

Family Art Night at Pinewood Elementary School

What makes a Van Gogh? Find out at Family Art Night from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pinewood Elementary School, 200 Rickswood Road in Timonium. Students and their families will explore the artwork of Vincent Van Gogh through a slide presentation, with opportunities to learn about art history and explore art media and techniques. The presentation will take place in the school gym.

Contact: Sheldon Lebowitz or Kathryn Arnold, Pinewood Elementary School, 410.887.7663

Open House at Cromwell Valley Elementary Regional Magnet School of Technology

Parents of prospective Cromwell Valley Elementary School students are invited to attend the school's annual Open House from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Students, staff, and parents will be available to share information about the CVE Magnet school program, admissions, and application deadlines. Cromwell Valley Elementary is a regional magnet school primarily serving the school communities of Hampton, Halstead Academy, Stoneleigh, Rodgers Forge, Oakleigh, Villa Cresta, and Pleasant Plains. The school is located at 825 Providence Road in Towson.

Contact: Darlene Morrison or Christian Gromek, Cromwell Valley
Elementary School, 410.887.4888

Berkshire Elementary School hosts a Turkey Trot

Berkshire Elementary School, 7431 Poplar Avenue in Dundalk, will host its second annual turkey trot for the school's grade 4 and 5 students. The Turkey Trot is a 1-mile race set on the grounds of Berkshire Elementary School. Students will use strategies and techniques learned during their cross-country unit to run the race. All participants will receive a medal for participation and top male/female finishers will win a gift card for a turkey.
Contact: Vicky Ciulla or Chuck Yanney, Berkshire Elementary School, 410.887.7008

Fullerton Elementary School to host Ice Cream Social and theater production

In observance of American Education Week, Fullerton Elementary School will once again celebrate learning and parent partnerships by joining with the school's PTA to host an Ice Cream Social. For that event, families are invited to enjoy both ice cream and a performance of the Children's Theater Association production of "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe." The school's annual Book Fair also will be held that evening for parents and students. More than 400 visitors are expected to attend the social, which begins at 6:30 p.m. and will continue until 9:00 p.m. at the school, located at 4400 Fullerton Avenue in Fullerton.

Contact: Homeretta Ayala or Susan Biscoe, Fullerton Elementary School, 410.887.5234

Martin Boulevard Elementary School invites students to make a book

Martin Boulevard Elementary School will invite students and their families to a school activity during which students have the opportunity to create and construct their own books. The event will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the school, located at 210 Riverton Road in Middle River. Students and families also will have the opportunity to purchase books.

Contact: Jacqueline Heckman or Karan Donoho, Martin Boulevard Elementary School, 410.887.0158

Overlea High, Golden Ring Middle school artists to be honored for Greenwood display

Student artists from Overlea High School and Golden Ring Middle School will be honored at an open house celebrating the exhibition of their work in the Administration Building on the Greenwood campus of Baltimore County Public Schools, 6901 Charles Street, Towson. The art show and reception will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and works of art will be on display through the month of November in the Greenwood mansion. Overlea High students have 84 pieces on display, and Golden Ring artists are represented in 24 works. All artists, their families and friends, and members of the community are invited to attend the November 17 opening.

Contact: Debbie Kiblin or Elizabeth Parker, Overlea High School, 410.887.5241

Baltimore Ravens to visit and inspire students at New Town High School

Keeping an annual tradition, members of the Baltimore Ravens NFL football team will visit students at New Town High School to speak and to take questions from students. With the theme of "Turn It Around," the program will bring three to four Ravens players to the school, located at 4931 New Town Boulevard in Owings Mills, during second period for grades 9 and 10 (9:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.). The players will focus their remarks on helping students realize that they can make a difference in school, at home, and in the community by making good decisions.

Contact: Kathy Ziese or Barbara Cheswick, New Town High School, 410.887.1614

Ronald McDonald to appear at Johnnycake Elementary School to discuss friendship

Johnnycake Elementary School, 5910 Craigmont Road in Woodlawn, will welcome Ronald McDonald from McDonald's restaurants to an assembly from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. and from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. The popular restaurant mascot will speak to children about what it takes to be a good friend, lessons in cooperation, and the importance of outdoor activity and fun.

Contact: Amy Daniller or Mary Maddox, Johnnycake Elementary School, 410.887.0823

Seventh District Elementary School to celebrate school's National Blue Ribbon status

Seventh District Elementary School, 20300 York Road in Parkton, will celebrate the school's recent designation as a National Blue Ribbon School with a special ceremony beginning at 2:00 p.m. The State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, County Executive Jim Smith, and the BCPS Superintendent's Chief of Staff Rita Fromm will honor the school's students, staff, and parents for this national accomplishment.

Contact: Glenda Carman or Leslie Brooks, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902

Wednesday, November 18

Parent Empowerment Night on tap at Pine Grove Middle School

Parents and students are invited to attend Pine Grove Middle School's Second Annual Parent Empowerment Night at 5:30 p.m. Parents and students will have an opportunity to participate in three sessions covering topics including academic support in middle school and alcohol and drug abuse prevention. Internet safety also will be discussed. The event is being sponsored by Pine Grove Middle School's Counseling Department. The school is located at 9200 Old Harford Road in Carney.

Contact: LaNae Nelson or Sandra Reid, Pine Grove Middle School, 410.887.5270

The Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council to sponsor a discussion of AIM

The Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council (SWAEAC) will sponsor a discussion of AIM - the Articulated Instruction Module - beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Winfield Elementary School, 8300 Carlson Lane, Randallstown. AIM is an online tool that describes what is being taught and what students are expected to learn for each course offered in BCPS. Students, parents, teachers, and community members are invited to the meeting to learn more about AIM and hear from a guest panel that includes Dr. Barbara Dezmon, Assistant to the Superintendent for Equity and Assurance, Woodlawn High School Assistant Principal James Sargent, and parent Veronica Magwood.

Contact: Brian Bailey, SWAEAC, 443.618.5405, or Beverly Lindsey, 443.840.4166

A special Powhatan Elementary School "thank you" event for parents

Powhatan Elementary School will host its first Parent Appreciation Night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Instrumental music teacher Ken Patterson will provide a night of jazz for parents, while the school's teachers and staff will serve dinner and provide babysitting services for guests as a way to show appreciation for the parental support that they receive from parents. The school is located at 3300 Kelox Road in Woodlawn.

Contact: Yasmin Stokes, Powhatan Elementary School, 410.887.1330

Thursday, November 19

"Doughnuts for Dad" event to be held at Edmondson Heights Elementary School

Edmondson Heights Elementary School, 1600 Langford Road in Woodlawn, will hold its annual "Doughnuts for Dad" event on from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. The event is a chance for all the school's dedicated fathers to come into the school with their children, enjoy doughnuts, and meet some of the teachers and staff.

Contact: Todd Queen, Edmondson Heights Elementary School PTA, 410.869.4720
Vince Tola or David Parker, Edmondson Heights Elementary School, 410.887.0818

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts to present fall play

Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

Charlesmont Elementary School hosts a Family Literacy Night

Parents, students, and teachers of Charlesmont Elementary School are invited to a Family Literacy Night at the school, which is located at 7800 West Collingham Drive in Dundalk. Participants will be treated to dinner, followed by a presentation by author and musician Barry Louis Polisar. The event, which will run from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., also will include break-out sessions on topics including the 100 Book Challenge, reading research labs, and effective reading strategies. Families are encouraged to bring one or two books to donate to a book swap, and every family will be able to choose books to add to their home libraries.

Contact: Marsha Ayres or Jane Losinger, Charlesmont Elementary 410.887.7004

"Art is In" at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School

Sudbrook Magnet Middle School will host its fall arts show, "Art Is In," at 6:30 p.m. in the school auditorium. In the show, visitors will hear students discuss their thinking processes and explain the techniques used to complete their work as it is displayed on the auditorium's big screen. After the presentation, guests may tour the first- and second-floor display areas and enjoy light refreshments in the Gifted and Talented exhibit areas. Admission is $2.00 per person or $4.00 per family. Funds will be used to support and enhance the visual arts programs at Sudbrook.

Contact: Cecilia Terlizzi or Sharon Robbins, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, 410-887-6720

Friday, November 20

Randallstown High School classes participate in competition on the Constitution and Bill of Rights

Students from Randallstown High School will both compete and host the Congressional district level hearings of the "We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution" competition. "We the People" teaches students the principles and values reflected in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Students address topics such as the history and philosophical ideas underlying the Constitution, the development and expansion of the Bill of Rights, and the roles of citizens in American democracy. The program asks students to analyze constitutional principles and apply them to day-to-day life. Administered by the Center for Civic Education, the program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Including noncompetitive elementary and middle school levels, more than 26.5 million students have participated in the program since its inception in 1986. Randallstown High School is located at 4000 Offutt Road in Randallstown. Please call the school for specific times and details.

Contact: Donna Olszewski, "We the People" competition, 410.767.0317 or Gerry Oehler, Randallstown High School, 410.887.0748

Seven Oaks Elementary School students to participate in school's annual Turkey Trot

The Seven Oaks Elementary School's annual Turkey Trot cross country race will take place after school from 3:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Boys and girls in grades 4 and 5 are eligible to participate in the yearly trot, which takes place at the school at 9220 Seven Courts Drive in Perry Hall.

Contact: Carol Wingard, Seven Oaks Elementary School, 410.887.6257

Riverview Elementary School PTA hosts a holiday "make and take" event

The Riverview Elementary School PTA welcomes parents to a "Parent and Child Holiday Make & Take" event to be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the school's cafeteria, located at 3298 Kessler Road in Lansdowne. At the event, parents and children will learn how to make several crafts and additional material will be sent home to allow families to make more crafts together. Refreshments will be provided, and prizes will be awarded. Interested Riverview parents should register by calling Anna Smith at 410.536.7265.

Contact: Anna Smith or Cheryl Jones, Riverview Elementary School, 410.536.7265

Saturday, November 21

Baltimore County Student Councils to hold annual Middle School Leadership Conference

The Baltimore County Student Councils will hold its annual Middle School Leadership Conference at the Community College of Baltimore County, Essex campus, 7201 Rossville Boulevard in Essex, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Leadership Conference is designed to provide an opportunity for middle school students around the county to share ideas and develop empowerment skills to enhance their leadership knowledge in the areas of team building, communication, parliamentary procedure, and community service. Trained student leaders will facilitate the day's workshop sessions. A mock general assembly will be held in the afternoon to put the middle schoolers' newly cultivated skills to practice.

Contact: Barbara Fuller, Office of Communications, 410.887.4218

Coming up!

Victory Villa Elementary School students to race in annual Turkey Trot on Tuesday, November 24

The 11th annual Victory Villa Turkey Trot will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 24, for students in grades 3, 4, and 5 at the school, 500 Compass Road in Middle River. The Turkey Trot supplements the cross country curriculum in physical education and has become a fall tradition at the school.

Contact: Marta Cover or Kathleen East, Victory Villa Elementary School, 410.887.0184

Children's author Jennifer Curtis to visit Berkshire Elementary School

Maryland "Green Author" Jennifer Keats Curtis will visit classes at Berkshire Elementary School, at 7431 Poplar Avenue in Dundalk, on Tuesday, December 1. She will read her illustrated children's books and talk with students about children's roles in helping wild animals. Curtis will share her award-winning story "Oshus and Shelly Save the Bay," as well as "Turtles In My Sandbox" and her brand-new release, "Baby Owl's Rescue," at two assemblies, one for primary grades and another for intermediate students. During the remainder of the day, Curtis will visit some of the classrooms to work with the students on their writing skills. Please call the school for specific times and details.

Contact: Andrea Naft or Vicky Ciulla, Berkshire Elementary School, 410.887.7008

Ongoing!

November "BCPS News" episode on the air at The Education Channel

The November episode of the award-winning "BCPS News" show, which highlights Baltimore County Public Schools' achievements and progress, is on the air. Produced monthly during the school year by The Education Channel of Baltimore County Public Schools, "BCPS News" airs daily at 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 6:30 p.m. on Comcast Cable Channel 73 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35 in Baltimore County. The program is also available for viewing online at the BCPS Web site (www.bcps.org) and for in-school viewing on Safari Montage, the BCPS video-on-demand system. The 30-minute episode for November includes stories about:

Generations' Day at Rodgers Forge Elementary School

The Baltimore County Student Councils annual leadership workshop held at Camp Ramblewood

Dedicated school crossing guard Linda Kennard

Lansdowne High and Prettyboy Elementary schools being designated as Physical Education Demonstration Schools

Visits from Ravens' players Joe Flacco and Ray Rice to BCPS schools

First Financial Federal Credit Union of Maryland opening its third school-based branch at Eastern Technical High School

Student reporters and anchors for "BCPS News" this school year are: Janel Johnson of Randallstown High School; Rachel Martinez and Cheyenne Tandon of Chesapeake High School; and Alexandria Benford, Vivian Ellis, Michelle Hayward, Elise Myers, and Da'Shan Utley, all from George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Communications Office, 410.887.6111

Books and Bagels returning to Seventh District Elementary School

Seventh District Elementary, 20300 York Road in Parkton, again will offer the popular Books and Bagels reading club - this year offered to all first-grade students. Starting Thursday, November 12, first-grade teacher Lauren Murray will meet once a week with students from one of the school's three first-grade reading groups from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. During that time, students will enjoy a breakfast snack and drink while discussing an assigned book. The book club is optional. It is designed strictly to develop the joy of reading, and students will not receive a grade.

Contact: Lauren Murray or Glenda Carman, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902

Two after-school clubs gearing up for competition at Eastwood Elementary Magnet School

Two after-school clubs at Eastwood Elementary Magnet School, 428 Westham Way in Dundalk, are busy preparing students for competitions in 2010. The MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Science Club meets each week to prepare for MESA regional competition in March and April of 2010. Students participating in MESA explore science and math concepts and participate in activities designed to engage students in observation, recording data, problem solving, and teamwork. Meanwhile, the school's Black Saga Club students challenge each other with facts and information about African-American history each week as they prepare for the countywide competition in February.

Contact: Rick Wright, Cyndy Wachob, or Joan Brauner, Eastwood Elementary Magnet School, 410.887.1408

November episode of "BCPS News" on the air: Includes features on a crossing guard, student leaders, and a new school credit union

communications@bcps.org — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:16:23 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - The November episode of the award-winning "BCPS News" show, which highlights Baltimore County Public Schools' achievements and progress, is on the air.

Produced monthly during the school year by The Education Channel of Baltimore County Public Schools, "BCPS News" airs daily at 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 6:30 p.m. on Comcast Cable Channel 73 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35 in Baltimore County. The program is also available for viewing online at the BCPS Web site (www.bcps.org) and for in-school viewing on Safari Montage, the BCPS video-on-demand system. The 30-minute episode for November includes stories about:

Generations' Day activities at Rodgers Forge Elementary School
The Baltimore County Student Councils annual leadership workshop
Veteran crossing guard Linda Kennard, who has protected the safety of Rodgers Forge children for more than 25 years
Physical education programs at Lansdowne High School and Prettyboy Elementary School, which a state association named Physical Education Demonstration Schools
A visit to Cockeysville Middle School by Ravens' star Ray Rice, cheerleaders, and mascot Poe to kick off a program encouraging children to exercise 60 minutes each day
A visit to Chatsworth School by Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco
The opening of the third school-based, student-operated branch of First Financial Federal Credit Union of Maryland, this one at Eastern Technical High School

Student reporters and anchors for "BCPS News" this school year are: Janel Johnson of Randallstown High School; Rachel Martinez and Cheyenne Tandon of Chesapeake High School; and Alexandria Benford, Vivian Ellis, Michelle Hayward, Elise Myers, and Da'Shan Utley, all from George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.

Baltimore County high school students to perform honors concert at Meyerhoff Hall

communications@bcps.org — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:10:42 GMT

What: More than 270 students will perform at the annual Baltimore County Public Schools High School Honors Concert. Conductors for the concert include: Joseph Young, a League of American Orchestras Conducting Fellow, of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra; Sun Min Lee, assistant professor of the Westminster Choir College of Rider University; and Dr. Michael Votta, associate professor at the University of the Maryland College Park. The concert is free, but tickets are required due to limited seating. To reserve tickets, please call the BCPS Music Office at 410-887-4024.

When: Monday, November 16, 2009, at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall
1212 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, Md. 21201

Additional Information:
The performing students have participated in a rigorous audition process to be selected for the Honors Concert. Ensembles for the evening include the orchestra, chorus, and band. In April, Baltimore County Public Schools was named again as one of the nation's "Best Communities for Music Education." The 2009 designation was made by NAMM, the international music products association that supports the benefits of music, music education, and music making. Baltimore County Public Schools, which also received this national honor in 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008, was one of only two Maryland school districts to receive the 2009 designation.

Board of Education of Baltimore County to meet on Tuesday, November 17

communications@bcps.org — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:22:49 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - The Board of Education of Baltimore County will hold a work session on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. Board work sessions are held for the purpose of the review and evaluation of school program(s) and/or the development and discussion of Board policy.

The full Board will meet in open session at approximately 5:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming school board association events, school system and community meetings, and items of interest to Board members. The Board will then move immediately into closed session. The Board will reconvene to begin its work session at approximately 6:30 p.m. Due to the nature of the work session, there will be no stakeholder or public comment.

The meeting(s) will be held in the ESS Building, Room 114, on the Greenwood Campus, 6901 Charles Street, in Towson. The public is welcome to attend all open sessions of the Board.

Schools prepare to welcome parents, community for American Education Week: Special events planned Nov. 16-20

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:16:32 GMT

What: Schools across Baltimore County will celebrate American Education Week with a variety of activities designed to showcase for parents and the community the teaching and learning going on each day in every classroom. Among the many special events planned in BCPS schools are the following:

Eastwood Elementary Magnet School kindergarten through grade 2 students will present "Stone Soup: 'A Rock Opera'" on Monday, November 16, at 11:00 a.m. at the school at 428 Westham Way, Dundalk.
Fullerton Elementary School, 4400 Fullerton Avenue in Fullerton, will host an ice cream social and theater production of "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe" at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17.
Pine Grove Middle School, 9200 Old Harford Road in Carney, will hold a Parent Empowerment Night covering a variety of academic support topics at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18.
Charlesmont Elementary School, 7800 W. Collingham Drive, Dundalk, hosts a Family Literacy Night dinner including a presentation by author and musician Barry Louis Polisar, at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19.
Riverview Elementary School's PTA invites parents to a "Parent and Child Holiday Make & Take" event to be held on Friday, November 20, at 2:30 p.m. at the school, 3298 Kessler Road, Lansdowne.

When: Monday, November 16, through Friday, November 20. Contact schools directly for more information on specific events and times.

Where: Public schools throughout Baltimore County

Additional Information:
During American Education Week, most schools set aside specific times for parents to visit their children's classrooms. In addition, many schools also host special events, including book fairs, reading nights, book swaps, music lessons, and more. Nationally, American Education Week, sponsored by the National Education Association, has been celebrated for 88 years. The theme for American Education Week is "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility."

Learning part of Veterans Day observance in BCPS: Superintendent Hairston to join Governor, First Lady at Dumbarton event

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:05:50 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - BCPS Superintendent Joe A. Hairston, Ed.D., will welcome Gov. Martin O'Malley and First Lady Judge Katie O'Malley to Dumbarton Middle School on Wednesday, November 11, during one of dozens of Veterans Day observances taking place in Baltimore County schools.

Governor and First Lady O'Malley will visit Dumbarton with Dr. Hairston to kick off a letter-writing campaign thanking veterans, service members, and military families for their contributions to our nation. Also participating in the 10:45 a.m. event will be State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, County Executive James T. Smith, Jr., and Brigadier General James A. Adkins, along with Dumbarton's principal, Nancy Fink, and students. The school is located at 300 Dumbarton Road in Rodgers Forge.

Other BCPS Veterans Day observances for Wednesday include:

Fifth District Elementary School, 3725 Mount Carmel Road, Upperco: First-graders will present an assembly for the school including flag presentations, area veterans honored with poems and songs, and a school-wide singing of "America the Beautiful."

Seventh District Elementary School, 20300 York Road, Parkton: The school will hold its annual celebration at 9:00 a.m., including an honor guard from the Parkton American Legion post and students providing information and thoughts about Veterans Day.

Deep Creek Elementary School, 1101 E. Homberg Avenue, Essex: An Air National Guard member will speak with fourth-graders at 9:00 a.m. about the history and meaning of the day. Students will create a PowerPoint show to share with the school.

November family learning calendar now online: Guide suggests free and low-cost ways for families to learn together

communications@bcps.org — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:07:53 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - Finding out who built the largest aircraft in history, entering a writing contest, figuring out the 293 ways to make change for a dollar, and participating in free family art projects at a local museum are just some of the ideas included on the November 2009 Monthly Learning Calendar for Families, produced by the Parent Support Services Office of Baltimore County Public Schools.

The calendar is available online at www.bcps.org/offices/dpd/pdf/Monthly-Learning-Calendars/November2009.pdf. The calendar features topics for family discussion and research, ideas for ways to incorporate learning into family life, and information on fun educational events and activities in the community. Icons identify if the suggested activity is appropriate for prekindergarten, elementary, and/or secondary students and also reflect whether the idea supports learning in mathematics, science, reading, writing, social studies, or the arts.

The calendars are developed by Chris Peter, resource center leader of the Southwest Resource Center at Maiden Choice, and were initiated during the 2007-2008 school year.

In addition to the Monthly Learning Calendar for Families, the Office of Parent Support Services, part of the Professional Development Department, coordinates the Parentmobile (an award-winning mobile resource center for parents and communities), maintains five educational resource centers that are open to the community, and supports schools in partnering with parents. For more information, please visit www.bcps.org/offices/dpd/pss.html.

BCPS News Tips: The Week of November 7-14, 2009 : Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools

communications@bcps.org — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:27:15 GMT

Saturday, November 7

BCPS Parentmobile open to participants of Parenting Matters conference

The BCPS Parentmobile, a rolling, retrofitted school bus that travels to schools, community events, local businesses, and neighborhoods to help parents and community members access information relative to education, will be open for visitors to the Parenting Matters conference at the University of Maryland Baltimore County campus at 1000 Hilltop Circle in Catonsville from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The conference features a variety of sessions on topics of interest to parents and caregivers, including sessions on early literacy, preparing for college careers, and school readiness. LaMont Toliver, director of the Meyerhoff Scholarship Program at UMBC, will kick off the event with opening remarks. The event is sponsored by the Maryland State Department of Education, UMBC, the Maryland State Parental Information and Resource Center, BCPS, and other school systems.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Office of Communications, 410.887.6111

Sunday, November 8

Superintendent to appear on WBAL-TV's "11 TV Hill"

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston will discuss educational issues and his 10-year tenure as Baltimore County's top educator during WBAL-TV's award-winning news magazine show, "11 TV Hill," at 11:30 a.m. The show, which also features veteran education reporter Tim Tooten interviewing Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, will also air Monday, November 9, through Saturday, November 14, on WBAL-TV's digital channel 11-2, which is channel 208 on the Comcast dial and channel 460 on Verizon FIOS. In addition, the show will be posted in its entirety on the WBAL-TV website at www.wbaltv.com under "11 TV Hill."

Contact: Charles Herndon, Communications Office, 410.887.6111

Monday, November 9

"Mistress Wythe" to make return visit to Woodmoor Elementary School from colonial Williamsburg

Students in Brenda Payne's grade 5 classes will receive a visit once again this week from "Mistress Wythe," Ms. Payne's fictional, identical cousin who travels forward in time from colonial Williamsburg to visit Woodmoor . Mistress Wythe arrives at Woodmoor, 3200 Elba Lane in Woodlawn, in complete period costume and teaches all classes in character, all the while providing students with plenty of information on colonial life complete with colloquialisms and artifacts from the Maryland Historical Society. Her visit is a much anticipated event among Woodmoor's students, many of whom are never completely sure if the character is Ms. Payne incognito or her actual cousin. Please call the school for times and additional details.

Contact: Brenda Payne or Edith Howard, Woodmoor Elementary School, 410.887.1318

Towson High students to attend special theatrical event in observance of Veterans Day

In observance of Veterans Day on Wednesday this week, about 60 students from Towson High School will travel to the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center's Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw Street in Baltimore City, to attend a showing of "Letters from Iraq," a special theatrical event that salutes the sacrifices made by the nation's armed forces. They will be led by drama teacher Donald Leifert, himself a Vietnam War veteran. Please call the school for times and additional details.

Contact: Marilyn Burton or Jane Barranger, Towson High School, 410.887.3608

Wednesday, November 11

Pikeville Middle School sponsors open house for prospective students

Pikesville Middle School, at 7701 Seven Mile Lane in Pikesville, will sponsor an open house for prospective students. Parents of students in grades 4 and 5 who are interested in finding out more about Pikesville Middle are encouraged to attend the open house as well. At the event, parents and prospective students will learn how a comprehensive middle school education prepares every child for the future. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to meet with department chairs, discover enrichment activities, and participate in hands-on learning demonstrations. The open house will take place at Pikesville Middle School from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Contact: Mia Talarigo, Pikesville Middle School, 410.887.1207

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle the focus of Middle River Middle School event

Middle River Middle School will host its annual Health and Physical Education Night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Students and parents can compete and play recreational activities while learning how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Activities include basketball, table tennis, a foul shooting contest and volleyball, among others. The school is located at 800 Middle River Road in Middle River.

Contact: Tom Baker or Walter Mills, Middle River Middle School, 10.887.0165

Windsor Mill Middle School to host "Powered By Me: How To Be A Winner On And Off The Field" information session

Windsor Mill Middle School will hold an information session from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for athletes and their parents about drug awareness and how young athletes can play safe, fair and sober. Athletes must be accompanied by parents to this special presentation at the school, which is located at 8300 Windsor Mill Road in Randallstown.

Contact: Ben Cagan or Deborah Phelps, Windsor Mill Middle School, 410.887.0618

Thursday, November 12

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts to debut art exhibition

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts will exhibit recent artwork from the school's Magnet Visual Art students at an event beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the school, 8100 Wise Avenue, Dundalk. The exhibit displays the finest art works created during the first quarter of the school year, and awards will be given for the best student works in all mediums and levels. The exhibition will be held in the lobby of the school.

Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

"The Ned Show" to debut at Pine Grove Elementary School

Students at Pine Grove Elementary School, 2701 Summit Avenue in Carney, will experience "The Ned Show" during a special presentation at the school. The show combines messages of perseverance, caring, and diligence with yo-yos, humor and audience participation. Please call the school for times and additional details of the show, which is sponsored in part by the school's PTA.

Contact: Joanna Ambridge or Jean Wilson, Pine Grove Elementary School, 410.887.5267

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts to offer magnet audition prep night

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts will offer a free Audition Prep Night to help 2010-2011 art magnet applicants prepare for January auditions. Teachers will be on hand to work with students on technique and assist in creating works for the students' portfolio reviews. Workshop attendees are invited to this event from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the school, located at the entrance to the school at Wise and Langport avenues in Dundalk.

Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

Timber Grove Elementary School to host a Tech Trek

Timber Grove Elementary School's "Tech Trek" will be held at the school at 701 Academy Avenue in Owings Mills. Designed as both a fundraiser and learning experience, children participating in the program have the opportunity to navigate an obstacle course centered around a heart theme. The anatomical theme relates to a physical fitness program at the school, "Fit in Five," and the event will help raise funding to purchase technology for the school. Please call the school for specific event times.

Contact: Janet Silverman or Leslie Dunn, Timber Grove Elementary School, 410.887.1714

"You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown - The Musical" to be presented during the Sudbrook Magnet Middle School One-Act Play Festival

Sudbrook Magnet Middle School will hold a One-Act Play Festival on Thursday, November 12, and Friday, November 13, with the production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown - The Musical" by Clark Gesner. All productions will be performed at 7:30 p.m. at the school, located at 4300 Bedford Road, Pikesville. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The musical takes place during an average day in the life of "Peanuts" character Charlie Brown. It is a day during which Charlie Brown experiences the highs of optimism and the lows of despair as he deals with challenges from Valentine's Day to baseball.

Contact: Gary Tiller or Sharon Robbins, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, 410.887.6720

Featherbed Lane Elementary School students go for world sport stacking record

Students in grades K-5 will be invited to participate in the Guinness Book of World Records "Stack Up Day," a worldwide effort to set the world record for "the most people sport-stacking in multiple locations in one day." Last year, more than 222,000 stackers around the globe set a new world record by sport stacking during the day for 30 minutes at a time. At Featherbed Lane, students will sport stack for 30 minutes as both a physical education exercise and a contribution to the world-record effort during specials periods beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the school gymnasium, which is located at 6700 Richardson Road in Woodlawn. Parents and staff also are invited to join in the 30-minute sessions. For more information on sport stacking, visit www.worldsportstackingassociation.org.

Contact: Tanya Cole, Tiffany Livingstone, or Scott Saffron, Featherbed Lane Elementary School, 410.887.1302

Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to be performed at Hereford High School

The Hereford High School Theatre group, under the direction of student directors Chrissy Yates and Adam Ziegel as well as theater teacher R. Christopher Rose, will present William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at 7:00 p.m. in the school's auditorium, 17301 York Road, Parkton. The program will also be presented on Saturday, November 14, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $6 in advance (available at http://herefordhs.bcps.org/clubs/its.html and follow the link) or $8 at the door.

Contact: Ginny Ellen Hoy or John Bereska, Hereford High School, 410.887.1905

Friday, November 13

Children's author Matthew J. Baek to visit Lutherville Lab

Children's author Matthew J. Baek will visit Lutherville Lab to present an assembly to students on the elements of good writing. The program will support Lutherville's school-wide focus on excellence in communication. Please call the school for times and additional details. Lutherville Lab is located at 1700 N. York Road in Lutherville.

Contact: Ken Raykovics or Steve Buettner, Lutherville Lab, 410.887.7800

"A Night to Remember" at Riderwood Elementary School

The Riderwood Elementary School Student Council Association will sponsor a read-a-thon at the school 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in memory of the school's media specialist, Bob Hallett. Students will collect pledges, which will be used to purchase a commemorative plaque for the school's library; any excess pledges will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Mr. Hallett's honor. "A Night to Remember" will feature faculty and staff reading Mr. Hallett's favorite books, and students will have the opportunity to visit different classrooms to hear stories. Teachers are requesting 25-cent pledges from each child who enters a classroom, and baked goods and water will be available for purchase. The entire school will meet from 7:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. for a shared time in the cafeteria, followed by a PowerPoint tribute to Mr. Hallett from 8:15 to 8:30 p.m. Riderwood Elementary School is located at 1711 Landrake Road in Towson.

Contacts: Heather Buchman, Kathy Dehart, or Lynn Detter, Riderwood Elementary School, 410.887.3568

Saturday, November 14

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts presents its first holiday dance concert

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts invites its school community to the school's first holiday dance concert. The Royal Performing Arts Center, under the direction of Denise Ebert, will collaborate with students in the school's dance magnet program to celebrate the beauty of the season with a variety of master work dances, student works, and excerpts from the Nutcracker. Admission to the 7:00 p.m. performance is $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. The school is located at 8100 Wise Avenue in Dundalk.

Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

Coming up!

Baltimore County Public Schools High School Honors Concert presents a gala celebration of the BCPS music program on Monday, November 16

The annual Baltimore County Public Schools High School Honors Concert will be held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore City on Monday, November 16, at 7:30 p.m. The annual gala performance will highlight the talents of more than 270 high school students selected from an audition process to perform in a countywide honors ensemble, including performances from the High School Honors Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. Conductors will include Joseph Young, a League of American Orchestras Conducting Fellow, of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra; Sun Min Lee, assistant professor of the Westminster Choir College of Rider University; and Dr. Michael Votta, associate professor at the University of the Maryland College Park. Admission to the concert is free, but tickets are required due to limited seating.

Contact: Angela Tanner or Karl Stewart, Office of Music, 410.887.4024

Randallstown Elementary School is "Raving About Reading!" on Monday, November 16

Randallstown Elementary School will celebrate reading with "Raving About Reading," a family activity in which children will be encouraged to dress as their favorite book character and bring to the activity their favorite stories. Families will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 16, for the activity in the cafeteria to watch a short skit highlighting the 100 Book Challenge. Students who met program goals will also be recognized and given medals for reading success. Families then will break into grade levels to engage in family reading, short book clubs, sharing about the children's favorite stories, and learning ways to encourage and support reading fluency and comprehension at home. The school is located at 9013 Liberty Road in Randallstown.

Contact: Betsy Book or Lois Stokes, Randallstown Elementary School, 410.887.0746

Fullerton Elementary School to host Ice Cream Social and theater production on Tuesday, November 17

In observance of American Education Week, Fullerton Elementary School will once again celebrate learning and parent partnerships by joining with the school's PTA to host an Ice Cream Social on Tuesday, November 17. For that event, families are invited to enjoy both ice cream and a performance of the Children's Theater Association production of "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe." The school's annual Book Fair also will be held that evening for parents and students. More than 400 visitors are expected to attend the social, which begins at 6:30 p.m. and continue to 9:00 p.m. at the school, located at 4400 Fullerton Avenue in Fullerton.

Contact: Homeretta Ayala or Susan Biscoe, Fullerton Elementary School, 410.887.5234

Martin Boulevard Elementary School invites students to make a book on Tuesday, November 17

Martin Boulevard Elementary School will invite students and their families to a school activity through which students have the opportunity to create and construct their own books. Using the Scholastic Klutz Build-A-Book kit, students will create and build their own books at this event from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the school, located at 210 Riverton Road in Middle River. Students and families also will have the opportunity to purchase books as well.

Contact: Jacqueline Heckman or Karan Donoho, Martin Boulevard Elementary School, 410.887.0158

Overlea High, Golden Ring Middle school artists to be honored Tuesday, November 17, for Greenwood display

Student artists from Overlea High School and Golden Ring Middle School will be honored at an open house and opening of a display of their work in the Administration Building on the Greenwood campus of Baltimore County Public Schools, 6901 Charles Street, Towson. The art show and reception will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17, and works of art will be on display through the month of November in the Greenwood mansion. This year Overlea High School has teamed with Golden Ring Middle School to stage a joint exhibit of student art. Overlea High students have 84 pieces on display and Golden Ring artists are represented in 24 works. All artists, their families and friends, and members of the community are invited to attend the November 17 opening.

Contact: Debbie Kiblin or Elizabeth Parker, Overlea High School, 410.887.5241

Baltimore Ravens to visit and inspire students at New Town High School on Tuesday, November 17

Keeping an annual tradition, members of the Baltimore Ravens NFL football team will visit students at New Town High School to speak and to take questions from students on Tuesday, November 17. With the theme of "Turn It Around," the program will bring three to four Ravens players to the school, located at 4931 New Town Boulevard in Owings Mills, during second period for grades 9 and 10 (9:30 p.m. to 10:50 a.m.). The players will focus their remarks on helping students realize that they can make a difference in school, at home, and in the community by making good decisions.

Contact: Kathy Ziese or Barbara Cheswick, New Town High School, 410.887.1614

Ronald McDonald to appear at Johnnycake Elementary School to discuss friendship on Tuesday, November 17

Johnnycake Elementary School, 5910 Craigmont Road in Woodlawn, will welcome Ronald McDonald from McDonald's restaurants to an assembly on Tuesday, November 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. and from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. The popular restaurant mascot will speak to children about what it takes to be a good friend, lessons in cooperation, and the importance of outdoor activity and fun.

Contact: Amy Daniller or Mary Maddox, Johnnycake Elementary School, 410.887.0823

Seventh District Elementary School to celebrate school's National Blue Ribbon status on Tuesday, November 17

Seventh District Elementary School, 20300 York Road in Parkton, will celebrate the school's recent designation as a National Blue Ribbon School with a special ceremony on Tuesday, November 17, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Both BCPS Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston and State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick will honor the school's students, staff, and parents for this national accomplishment.

Contact: Glenda Carman or Leslie Brooks, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902

Parent Empowerment Night on tap at Pine Grove Middle School on Wednesday, November 18

Parents and students are invited to attend Pine Grove Middle School's Second Annual Parent Empowerment Night at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18. Parents and students will have an opportunity to participate in three sessions covering topics including academic support in middle school and alcohol and drugs. Internet safety and keeping students safe on the information highway also will be discussed. The event is being sponsored by Pine Grove Middle School's Counseling Department. The school is located at 9200 Old Harford Road in Carney.

Contact: LaNae Nelson or Sandra Reid, Pine Grove Middle School, 410.887.5270

The Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council to sponsor a discussion of AIM on Wednesday, November 18

The Southwest Area Educational Advisory Council will sponsor a discussion of AIM - the Articulated Instruction Module - beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18, at Winfield Elementary School, 8300 Carlson Lane, Randallstown. AIM is an online tool that describes what is being taught and what students are expected to learn for each course offered in BCPS. Students, parents, teachers, and community members are invited to the meeting to learn more about AIM and hear from a guest panel that includes Dr. Barbara Dezmon, Assistant to the Superintendent for Equity and Assurance, Woodlawn High School Assistant Principal James Sargent, and parent Veronica Magwood.

Contact: Brian Bailey, SWAEAC, 443.618.5405, or Beverly Lindsey, 443.840.4166

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts to present fall play beginning Thursday, November 19

Thespians at Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts will present the school's fall play, "Iphigenia at Aurlis in Orem," beginning Thursday, November 19, and continuing through Sunday, November 22. The play is composed of two tragic tales woven together by themes of sacrifice and honor. Euripides' "Iphigenia at Aulis" tells the story of Greek king and leader Agamemnon as he loses his daughter for the sake of his country, while Neil Laute's adaptation, "Iphigenia in Orem," explores the same themes in contemporary society as a businessman confesses to a strikingly similar and chilling crime. Tickets for the drama, which is appropriate for children ages 13 and older, are $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for students and seniors. Refreshments will be available for purchase during intermission, and all shows from November 19 through 21 begin at 7:00 p.m. The Sunday, November 22, show begins at 2:30 p.m. The school is located at 8100 Wise Avenue in Dundalk.
Contact: Liberty Grayek or Ryan Imbriale, Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts, 410.887.7060

Charlesmont Elementary School hosts a Family Literacy Night on Thursday, November 19

Parents, students, and teachers of Charlesmont Elementary School are invited to a Family Literacy Night at the school, which is located at 7800 West Collingham Drive in Dundalk. Participants will be treated to dinner, followed by a presentation by author and musician Barry Louis Polisar. The event, which will run from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., also will include break-out sessions on topics including the 100 Book Challenge, reading research labs, and effective reading strategies. Families are encouraged to bring one or two books to donate to a book swap, and every family will be able to choose books to add to their home libraries.

Contact: Marsha Ayres or Jane Losinger, Charlesmont Elementary 410.887.7004

"Art is In" at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School on Thursday, November 19

Sudbrook Magnet Middle School will host its fall arts show, "Art Is In," on Thursday, November 19, at 6:30 p.m. in the school auditorium. In the show, visitors will hear students discuss their thinking process and explain the techniques used to complete their work as it is displayed on the auditorium's big screen. After the presentation, guests may tour the first- and second-floor display areas and enjoy light refreshments in the Gifted and Talented exhibit areas. Admission is $2.00 per person or $4.00 per family. Funds will be used to support and enhance the visual arts programs at Sudbrook.

Contact: Cecilia Terlizzi or Sharon Robbins, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School, 410-887-6720

Riverview Elementary School PTA hosts a holiday "make and take" event on Friday, November 20

The Riverview Elementary School PTA welcomes parents to a "Parent and Child Holiday Make & Take" event to be held on Friday, November 20, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the school's cafeteria, located at 3298 Kessler Road in Lansdowne. At the event, parents and children will learn how to make several crafts and additional material will be sent home to allow families to make more crafts together. Refreshments will be provided and prizes will be awarded. Interested Riverview parents should register by calling Anna Smith at 410.536.7265.

Contact: Anna Smith or Cheryl Jones, Riverview Elementary School, 410.536.7265

Ongoing!

November "BCPS News" episode on the air at The Education Channel

Generation's Day at Rodgers Forge Elementary School

The Baltimore County Student Councils annual leadership workshop held at Camp Ramblewood

Dedicated school crossing guard Linda Kennard

Lansdowne High and Prettyboy Elementary schools being designated as Physical Education Demonstration Schools

Visits from Ravens' players Joe Flacco and Ray Rice to BCPS schools

First Financial Federal Credit Union of Maryland opening its third school-based branch at Eastern Technical High School

Student reporters and anchors for "BCPS News" this school year are: Janel Johnson of Randallstown High School; Rachel Martinez and Cheyenne Tandon of Chesapeake High School; and Alexandria Benford, Vivian Ellis, Michelle Hayward, Elise Myers, and Da'Shan Utley, all from George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Communications Office, 410.887.6111

Books and Bagels returning to Seventh District Elementary School

Seventh District Elementary, 20300 York Road in Parkton, again will offer the popular Books and Bagels reading club - this year offered to all first-grade students. Starting Thursday, November 12, first-grade teacher Lauren Murray will meet with students from one of the school's three first-grade reading groups from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. During that time, students will enjoy a breakfast snack and drink while discussing an assigned book. The book club is optional. It is designed strictly to develop the joy of reading, and students will not receive a grade.

Contact: Lauren Murray or Glenda Carman, Seventh District Elementary School, 410.887.1902

Cockeysville Middle School teachers win Science Teaching Tools Award: $2,500 prize will be used to buy more technology for school

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:00:34 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - The Central Maryland Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association will present Cockeysville Middle School teachers Mark Heath and Peter Lo with a Science Teaching Tools Award for 2009-2010.

The $2,500 award will be presented during a luncheon on November 19 and will be used by Cockeysville Middle School to purchase a set of TI-NavigatorsT for use in seventh-grade math classes. TI-NavigatorsT connect students' graphing calculators to classroom computers.

Heath and Lo teach seventh-grade math at Cockeysville. Ellen Mangels, Cockeysville math department chair, recommended them for this award because of their dedication to students and their innovative use of technology. Heath and Lo spearheaded the use of Interwrite (interactive whiteboard) tablets in the school math department last year. Because of their efforts, this year, all of the school's math teachers have integrated Interwrite tablets into their lessons.

In addition, Heath coaches the school's Math 24 Challenge competitors and Lo coaches the Maryland Mathalon team.

Heath and Lo will be recognized for their honor at the Baltimore County Board of Education Recognition Event to be held on February 3, 2010.

Baltimore County Public Schools to hold major business networking event: More than 150 MBEs to meet BCPS general and prime contractors

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:11:26 GMT

Who:

37 Baltimore County Public Schools general and prime contractors

More than 150 Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) companies

Barbara Burnopp, Chief Financial Officer, BCPS

Richard Gay, Purchasing Manager, BCPS

Representatives from: The Governor's Office on Minority Affairs, Maryland-Washington Minority Contractors Association, Baltimore County Department of Public Works, Baltimore County Small Business Resource Center, Maryland Department of Transportation, Office of MBE, Baltimore County Office of Fair Practices

What: Baltimore County Public Schools will hold the first-of-its-kind business "Meet and Greet" to introduce more than 150 Minority Business Enterprises to nearly 40 BCPS general and prime contractors.

BCPS has an enduring commitment to minority business inclusion. As a result, in fiscal year 2009 the school system achieved 35.51% minority and small business participation on all contracts. According to the Governor's Office of Minority Affairs in fiscal year 2008, BCPS led all Maryland Local Education Agencies (LEA) by achieving 22% MBE/SBE participation in construction contracts funded by the State, with over $35.4 million awarded to the MBE/SBE community. This total exceeded the second highest LEA by more than $15 million. MBEs may register by calling 410-887-4334 or emailing rball@bcps.org.

When: Wednesday, November 4, 2009, 8 a.m. - Noon

Where: Oregon Ridge Lodge, 13401 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville, MD 21030