News from Baltimore County Public Schools, Maryland

School system invites public to participate in online satisfaction survey: Survey available from Friday, May 9, through Sunday, June 8

communications@bcps.org — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:52:06 GMT

What: Baltimore County Public Schools is inviting the public to participate in an online Stakeholder Satisfaction Survey. Through this easy-to-use survey, students, parents, and community members from throughout the county will be able to provide feedback to schools and the school system about a variety of topics. The survey is available online only. Those needing assistance accessing the Internet may do so via computers in BCPS schools and at county public libraries.

When: The survey will be available online beginning at 12:00 noon on Friday, May 9, 2008, and will be available 24 hours a day until 12:00 midnight on Sunday, June 8, 2008.

Where: The survey may be accessed at www.bcps.org
. Users may link to the survey by clicking a link in the upper right hand corner of the BCPS home page.

Background:

This is the fourth year that BCPS has used the online survey as a tool to learn more about its service to students and the community.

New episode of "BCPS News" on the air: Stories include an engineering project with Lockheed Martin professionals and a creative problem-solving challenge

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:34:54 GMT

TOWSON, MD. (May 7, 2008) - A new episode of the award-winning "BCPS News" show, which highlights Baltimore County Public Schools' achievements and progress, will air throughout the month of May.

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 in Baltimore County.

The 30-minute episode for May includes stories about:

How students at Eastern Technical High School battle for "engineering supremacy" by designing and building trebuchets (mechanical engines designed to accurately propel objects).

Elmwood Elementary School's involvement in Odyssey of the Mind, a team competition involving creative exercises in which teamwork, cooperation, and ingenuity are applied to complete various tasks, and their success in winning first place in a challenge at the recent statewide Odyssey meet.

Engineering students from several BCPS schools working with Lockheed Martin professionals on a roller coaster design.

Student involvement from across the school district in Maryland Sings, an organization dedicated to fostering vocal talent and creating positive role models.

The rare opportunity enjoyed by Milford Mill Academy vocal students to learn from an expert on the music of George and Ira Gershwin.

A demonstration at Owings Mills High School by The Gymkana Gymnastic Performance Troupe, designed to promote drug-free living.

Every year, The Education Channel selects a new team of students to work on the program as reporters and anchors. Through this internship, students gain experience in public speaking, interviewing, writing, and editing, and learn more about career options in broadcasting.

The "BCPS News" student reporters for the 2007-2008 school year are: Meghan Rose, a senior from Towson High School, and Jermaine Isaac, a senior from Woodlawn High School, as well as four students from the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology - seniors Gabriella B., Alison P., and Eric B., and sophomore Elise M..

Since 1983, The Education Channel has produced original taped programming, interactive instructional programming, interactive DVDs, commercial satellite downlinks, and live telecasts to serve the instructional and informational needs of the students, educators, and citizens of Baltimore County. The Education Channel also provides opportunities for BCPS students, staff, and stakeholders to learn about and gain experience in television and video production.

Other original programming airing on The Education Channel includes "High School Sports Scene," "Math Homework Helpers," "SAT Review," "Student Art Break," "Student Production Showcase," "Superintendent's Roundtable," "United We Sing," "Up Beat," and "The Chalkboard." The Education Channel also records and airs public meetings of the Baltimore County Board of Education, systemwide music events, and other special activities.

A viewing schedule for The Education Channel is available at www.bcps.org/apps/edchannel_schedule/.

BCPS to award scholarships to encourage students to become educators: Scholarship winners to return to teach in Baltimore County

communications@bcps.org — Tue, 06 May 2008 13:54:42 GMT

What: Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston will present the school system's second annual awards through its Scholarship Loan Program designed to encourage graduating students to pursue careers in education. Before a gathering of family, friends, and school staff and administrators, renewable annual scholarships of $4,000 each will be presented to graduating seniors Ryan G. of Eastern Technical High School, Brittany M. of Dundalk High School, and Malcolm R. of Pikesville High School.

When: Wednesday, May 7, 2008, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Room 114, ESS Building
Greenwood campus, 6901 Charles Street, Towson 21204

Background:

The 2006-2007 school year marked the inauguration of the Baltimore County Public Schools Scholarship Loan Program. Administered by the Department of Human Resources and Government Relations, the program is designed to encourage and assist new BCPS graduates in pursuing professional careers in education, specifically in the subject areas of secondary math, science, special education, and technology education. The scholarship is renewable each year if the student continues to meet specified residency and academic criteria.

After earning a degree from an approved Maryland teacher education program, the scholarship recipients will be required to teach in Baltimore County Public Schools - one year of service in a priority or Title I school for each year of the award.

The scholarship recipients for 2008 were selected by an application review committee comprised of representatives from the BCPS Office of Personnel, TABCO, PTA, Office of Equity and Assurance, and Office of Career and Technology Education.

This year's scholarship recipients

Ryan G., who intends to teach secondary math, is an honor student at Eastern Technical High School, taking Advanced Placement classes in psychology, English literature, and calculus. A varsity track and cross country team member, Ryan is also a member of the SAT 1300 Club (with an SAT score of 1360). In 2007 and 2008, Ryan was a member of the Ford AAA Auto Skills Troubleshooting Contest Team. In addition, he works in his family's catering business and assists in caring for an elderly grandfather. (Last year, Ryan's sister Meghan received this scholarship.)

Brittany M., who plans to teach secondary mathematics, is treasurer of the Future Educators Association at Dundalk High School, an honor student, and a varsity field hockey player. Through the school system's parallel enrollment program, she is taking courses at the Community College of Baltimore County-Dundalk. A member of her school's Class of 2008 Steering Committee and Calculus Club, Brittany is also an active volunteer with the Berkshire Area Community Association and Dundalk Renaissance Corporation, and she works part-time at a Burger King.

Malcolm R., who is pursuing a career in technology education, was enrolled last year in Advanced Placement psychology and environmental science courses and participated last year in Pikesville High School's jazz and gospel choir. In addition to volunteering with the Community Outreach Food Pantry, he is employed as a "scoop artist" at Maggie Moo's Ice Cream Parlor.

Franklin High School educator chosen as 2008-09 Baltimore County Teacher of the Year: Social studies teacher John Billingslea applauded in ceremony

communications@bcps.org — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:28:32 GMT

TOWSON, MD. (May 5, 2008) - The defining moment of John Billingslea's life wasn't his decision to become a teacher, but it led to it. And in a way, it led to his becoming a teacher's teacher, and to his being named today as the Baltimore County Public Schools Teacher of the Year for 2008-2009.

Billingslea, an Advanced Placement social studies teacher at Franklin High School in Reisterstown, is the first to note how far he has come since that day when in 1976 his "defining moment" struck. Just 8 years old, he was involved in a terrible accident that nearly ended his life and left him with head and brain injuries. Doctors told his family that if he survived, he would likely have significant cognitive impairments.

"Obviously, things turned out differently. But during my time recovering in the hospital, I made a promise," he told a rapt audience during the Teacher of the Year announcement Monday in an at-times emotional address. "I made a promise that if things turned out all right, I would do something with my life to make the world a better place.

"I chose to become a teacher."

Now, as Baltimore County's Teacher of the Year, Billingslea has the opportunity to be the most visible teacher in the county and among the most prominent in Maryland. Representing more than 8,000 educators for the next year, he will compete for the honor of Maryland State Teacher of the Year and appear in dozens of venues to champion what he calls "the artistry of teaching."

During Monday's ceremony, Billingslea was congratulated by Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston, members of the Board of Education of Baltimore County, administrators, friends, family, and colleagues, including several former Baltimore County Teachers of the Year.

"For John, as for so many of our past Teachers of the Year, it is clear that teaching is far more than a profession," said Dr. Hairston. "He writes and he speaks about the tremendous power of the teaching profession, referring to it as a 'calling to bring good into the world.' He notes that while one person can only do a small part to influence the world, as a teacher, your influence is magnified time and time again through your students."

Added Billingslea, "Barnum & Bailey may have the greatest show on earth, but spend a day in any school house and you would realize that teaching is the greatest profession on earth, even if it feels some days like you're in a circus."

As an educator who has devoted much of his professional life to assisting colleagues in the classroom, Billingslea says he hopes to use "his short time in the center ring" to help improve teacher recruitment and retention and "help in attracting and keeping the best teachers right here in Baltimore County.

"I want to remind teachers of the artistry of teaching, the power of a finely crafted lesson and the ability of self-directed classroom research to promote professional growth," he said. "(I want to remind them) that quality instruction focused on teaching students to think - to think - can surpass the inevitable challenges posed by standardized testing."

Also honored during Friday's ceremony were finalists Deirdre Austen, a fourth-grade teacher from Lutherville Laboratory for Science, Mathematics, and Communications, and Judith Henderson, a reading specialist also at Lutherville Laboratory.

"All three of today's honorees are lifelong learners," said Dr. Hairston. "They are enthusiastic about the subjects they teach and the students in their classes, and they understand the power of the teacher-student relationship. These teachers know that they are teaching and modeling for their students lessons - about character, about service, about integrity - that cannot be written in a lesson plan."

In addition to the title and a plaque, the county's Teacher of the Year is awarded the use of a 2009 Toyota Corolla for a year, courtesy of the Baltimore Area Toyota Dealers, a Teacher of the Year program partner for 11 years.

Billingslea also will receive state-of-the-art educational technology for his classroom, as well as a new laptop computer for his use during his tenure as Teacher of the Year.

Billingslea, 40, is a 17-year teacher who has taught at Franklin for the past 11 years. There, he teaches grades 11 and 12 in AP psychology and philosophy, has taught grade 9 government, and taught from 1994 to 1997 at Randallstown High School.

At Franklin High School, Billingslea has helped to build a psychology program from having 16 AP psychology students 11 years ago into one with 130 students today. His principal, Kathleen Schmidt, credits him with helping the school qualify for its placement among Newsweek's list of top high schools in the nation. His students alone account for 27 percent of the AP exams administered at Franklin High and, consistently, more than 80 percent of his students pass those rigorous exams.

Billingslea also taught in Oregon and Montana in the early 1990s, and has earned a number of regional and national honors and recognitions, including the College Board AP Teacher of the Year in 2005, the Society for the Teaching of Psychology Teacher of the Year in 2001, and a Target Teacher of the Year semi-finalist designation in 2003.

After the announcement by Superintendent Hairston, Billingslea expressed an emotional appreciation to his students, colleagues, and family - especially to his grandmother Inez Billingslea, who herself was a kindergarten teacher.

"Every Sunday," he said, "we would go to her house for an afternoon supper and as she put the sliced tomatoes on the table, she would look me square in the eyes, all 4 feet-nothing of her, and with her little grandmother finger she would gently tap me on the forehead and say, 'John Leonard . . . always remember that they can't take this away from you. They can't take this away.'

"Grandmom, thank you. I remember."

News Tips: The Week of May 3 - May 10, 2008 : Activities, Events, and News from Baltimore County Public Schools

communications@bcps.org — Mon, 05 May 2008 11:19:42 GMT

Saturday, May 3

Woodlawn High School hosting BCPS Job Fair

Woodlawn High School, 1801 Woodlawn Drive in Woodlawn, will host a BCPS Job Fair from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Positions are available throughout the BCPS system for groundskeepers, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, bus attendants, trades personnel, and office professionals. Applicants are expected to have the ability to pass a complete background investigation, meet the physical demands of the position, have good human relations and communications skills, and knowledge, skills, and abilities specific to the positions for which they are applying. Some positions require completion of appropriate testing and may require a commercial driver's license and random drug testing.

Contact: Office of Human Resources, 410.887.4191

Spring Festival blooms at Warren Elementary School

Warren Elementary School's Spring Festival features a caricaturist, face painting, crafts, music, fitness activities, demonstrations, contests, and a surprise guest. The event will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the school, located at 900 Bosley Avenue in Cockeysville.

Contact: Susan Webb or Susan Eisenhart, Warren Elementary School, 410.887.7665

Timber Grove Elementary School the venue for Spring Fest 2008

A community event sponsored by Timber Grove Elementary School will be held at the school, located at 701 Academy Avenue in Owings Mills, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The day will feature children's entertainment, old-fashioned carnival games, food and drinks, a phenomenal silent auction, and more. A quarter of the funds raised will be donated to Hayden's Heart Heroes to support the Hopkins Heart Family Network and Hopkins Pediatric Cardiology.

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

Monday, May 5

Astronaut addresses Hereford Middle School's eighth grade

Retired NASA Astronaut Don Thomas will be the guest speaker for all eighth-grade classes at Hereford Middle School from 8:35 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. The event will take place in Hereford's cafetorium, 712 Corbett Road in Monkton. Dr. Thomas is director of the new Hackerman Academy of Mathematics and Science at Towson University, an outreach program designed to encourage Baltimore area middle and high school students to consider careers in math and science. He will address the school's magnet biomedical program and upper level science students. During his NASA career, Dr. Thomas flew as a mission specialist on four shuttle missions, completing nearly 700 orbits of the Earth. From 2003 until 2006, he was the International Space Station (ISS) program scientist, responsible for planning and scheduling science activities aboard the ISS.

Contact: Wally Isham or Cathy Walrod, Hereford Middle School,

410.887.7902

Baltimore County's Teacher of the Year announced

Baltimore County's 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year will be announced during a special ceremony at 11:00 a.m. in Room 114 of the ESS Building on the Greenwood administrative campus, 6901 Charles Street, Towson. The county's Teacher of the Year will go on to compete in the state level Teacher of the Year selection process in the fall.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Office of Communications, 410.887.6111

Wednesday, May 7

Halethorpe Elementary School to host early kindergarten registration

Halethorpe Elementary School will host its early kindergarten registration for the 2008-2009 school year from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parents should call the school to make an appointment and to receive more information. Halethorpe Elementary is located at 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406

Thursday, May 8

A Very Special Arts Festival

More than 1,000 students from Baltimore County Public Schools are expected to participate in this year's "Very Special Arts Festival, The event is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Oregon Ridge Park, located at 13555 Beaver Dam Road in Cockeysville, (The rain date for the event is Friday, May 9.) At the event, students perform music, dance, display art, and/or participate in "make-and-take" activities.

Contact: Mary Mitchell, Office of Special Education, 410.887.3660

Subway's Jared Fogle to recognize retiring Baltimore County Public Schools teacher

Kingsville Elementary School will welcome Subway's national spokesperson, Jared Fogle, as he visits the school to recognize physical education teacher Roger Dorr for his dedication to keeping children healthy for more than four decades. Dorr is retiring after 42 years of teaching physical education in Baltimore County Public Schools. The event will take place at 10:30 a.m. at the school at 7300 Sunshine Avenue in Kingsville.

Contact: Susan Felts, Kingsville Elementary School, 410.887.5949

Library Night at Halethorpe Elementary School

Students, family, and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend Library Night at Halethorpe Elementary School from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Arbutus branch of the Baltimore County Public Library, which is located at 1581 Sulphur Spring Road, Suite 105, in Arbutus.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406

Friday, May 9

Colgate Elementary School to host kindergarten round-up

Colgate Elementary School, located at 401 Fifty-first Street in Dundalk, will host its kindergarten round-up throughout the day. Parents or guardians of five-year-old students who must register for Colgate's kindergarten for the upcoming 2008-2009 school year should call the school office to schedule an appointment and obtain a packet regarding required information.

Contact: Kevin Connelly, Colgate Elementary School, 410.887.7010

All-County Honors Dance Ensemble to perform

The BCPS All-County Honors Dance Ensemble will perform in concert beginning at 7:30 p.m. at George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, 938 York Road in Towson. The ensemble is an auditioned group of students who dedicate after-school and weekend time to their love of dance. Sixteen honors dance students will perform a variety of dance works under the artistic direction of Stephanie Powell, dance teacher at Carver Center, Towson University, Goucher College, and Baltimore Dance Tech. In addition to ensemble work, the senior students will present solo choreography. Tickets are available through the Office of Dance Education at 410.887.4014.

Contact: Suzie Henneman, Office of Dance Education, 410.887.4014

Padonia International Elementary School holds movie special

Padonia International Elementary School will hold a special showing of the popular movie "Ratatouille" starting at 6:30 p.m. as a school-wide spirit activity. Nachos, popcorn, candy, and other snacks will be available during the show. The movie will be presented at the school, located at 9834 Greenside Drive in Cockeysville.

Contact: Karen Cashen, Padonia International Elementary School, 410.887.7646

Plant Sale at Warren Elementary School

A selection of hanging baskets and assorted flowers will be for sale at Warren Elementary School from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to help benefit the school. Each class will visit the sale, to be held in front of the school at 900 Bosley Road in Cockeysville, to buy the $1.00 flowers just in time for Mother's Day.

Contact: Susan Webb or Susan Eisenhart, Warren Elementary School, 410.887.7665

Saturday, May 10

Catonsville Elementary School's PTA to hold Spring Fair

Catonsville Elementary School's PTA will host its annual Spring Fair from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the school, located at 615 Frederick Road in Catonsville. Families are invited to engage in activities such as face painting, card making, and decorating flower pots for Mother's Day, as well as games including potato sack races and an obstacle course. Hot dogs, snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.

Contact: Linda Miller, Catonsville Elementary School, 410.887.0800

Randallstown Elementary School celebrates 100 years of education

Randallstown Elementary School - the oldest continuously operating public school in Baltimore County - celebrates its 100th anniversary with a school- and community-wide May Day Festival and Academic Fair. The event will be held from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. at the school, 9013 Liberty Road in Randallstown. The event will feature performances by the school cheerleaders, a karate demonstration, and a display of students' academic and artistic work. Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston will visit the school to extend congratulations.

Contact: Marcel Hall, Corrine Wertz or Valencia Perkins, Randallstown Elementary School, 410.887.0746

Coming Up!

22nd Annual Awards for Excellence in Education gala celebration on Monday, May 12

About 120 of Baltimore County Public Schools' finest teachers and educators will be honored by the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce and the business community during this annual celebration of the county's teaching professionals. About a dozen of the honored teachers will be recipients of special Awards for Excellence during the gala banquet and program, which begins at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, May 12, at Martins West, 6817 Dogwood Road, Windsor Mill.

Contact: Charles Herndon, Office of Communications, 410.887.6111

Warren Elementary School Art Expo/Ice Cream Social/Book Fair on Tuesday, May 13

On Tuesday, May 13, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., artwork created by Warren Elementary School students will be showcased in the school's annual Art Expo. The evening event, which will be held at the school at 900 Bosley Road in Cockeysville, will also include an ice cream social and book fair.

Contact: Susan Webb or Susan Eisenhart, Warren Elementary School, 410.887.7665

BCPS student art to be featured in Security Square Mall's 6th Annual Art Awards on Wednesday, May 14

Security Square Mall and Baltimore County Public Schools will host a reception and awards ceremony to honor BCPS students whose artwork will be exhibited in the Security Square Mall Art Gallery. The Reception will take place at Martins West, 6817 Dogwood Road in Woodlawn, on Wednesday, May 14 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Contact: Linda Popp, Office of Visual Arts, 410.887.4030

Kindergarten registration at Catonsville Elementary School on Wednesday, May 14; pre-kindergarten registration on Wednesday, May 21

At Catonsville Elementary School, kindergarten registration will be held on Wednesday, May 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Pre-kindergarten registration will be held on Wednesday, May 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Parents are asked to call the school at 410.887.0800 to schedule an appointment. Registration packets may be picked up during any school day. The school is located at 615 Frederick Road in Catonsville.

Contact: Linda Miller, Catonsville Elementary School, 410.887.0800

Chase Elementary School pre-kindergarten and kindergarten registration scheduled for Thursday, May 15

On Thursday, May 15, Chase Elementary School, 11701 Eastern Avenue in Chase, will hold its registration for the 2008-2009 school year. To qualify for the kindergarten program, a child must be 5 years old by September 1, 2008. To be considered for the pre-kindergarten program, a child must be 4 years old by September 1, 2008. To be considered for the pre-school program, a child must be 3 years old by September 1, 2008. If Chase Elementary is a child's home school, parents should call the school office to schedule an appointment and receive a registration packet.

Contact: Sharon Whitlock, Chase Elementary School, 410.887.5940

Colgate Elementary School to hold pre-kindergarten round-up on May 16

Registration for parents of four-year-old children who would like to enroll their children in pre-kindergarten for the upcoming 2008-2009 school year should contact the school office to schedule an appointment and obtain an information packet. Colgate's pre-kindergarten round-up will be hosted at the school on Friday, May 16, throughout the day. Colgate Elementary School is located at 401 Fifty-first Street in Dundalk.

Contact: Kevin Connelly, Colgate Elementary School, 410.887.7010

Baltimore County Student Councils to hold annual year-end Bull Roast and Recognition on Friday, May 16

The Baltimore County Student Councils (BCSC) will hold its annual, end-of-year Bull Roast and Recognition on Friday, May 16, at Oregon Ridge Park in Hunt Valley from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. More than 250 secondary students, advisors, administrators, and board members will join together to recognize the outgoing BCSC Executive Board members, outstanding student council advisors, and special activity advisors. Winners of the 2007-2008 BCSC Advisor of the Year and Principal of the Year awards will be announced. Also, two college-bound seniors will each receive a $1,000 BCSC scholarship. Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston will be present to swear-in the newly elected officers for the 2008-2009 school year. Outgoing student president Rebecca Palardy of Perry Hall High will deliver her State of the County speech, after which a year-in-review slide show will be presented. After the program, attendees will adjourn outside for a picnic and recreation activities.

Contact: Barbara Fuller, Office of Communications, 410.887.4218

Halethorpe Elementary to host Reading Around the World on Friday, May 16

Halethorpe Elementary School, at 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe, will host a "Reading Around the World" celebration for students who have completed six out of seven reading projects and the required 300 minutes of reading. The event will begin at 2:45 p.m. at the school.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, 410.887.1406

BCPS hosts 5th annual countywide Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Fair on Saturday, May 17

Baltimore County Public Schools elementary students from across the school district will present their science projects during the daylong Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Fair at Randallstown High School, 4000 Offutt Drive, in Randallstown. Judging for the prestigious STEM Fair begins at 9:00 a.m., followed by a series of activities, demonstrations, and presentations through the day. An awards ceremony will begin at about 4:00 p.m.

Contact: David Copenhaver, Office of Science, Pre-K to 12, 410.887.4251

1770's colonial camp emerges at Riderwood Elementary School on Monday, May 19

Fifth-graders at Riderwood Elementary School will get to experience what it was like to live in colonial times on Monday, May 19, from 9:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. During the day, students will develop the characters of colonial times and participate in an authentic historic activity. Riderwood is located at 1711 Landrake Road in Towson.

Contact: Gene Monahan or Kathy DeHart, Riderwood Elementary School, 410.887.3568

Pine Grove Middle School to host 12th Annual Inclusion Play Day on Monday, May 19

Pine Grove Middle School will be hosting 12th Annual Inclusion Play Day on Monday, May 19, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Designed by the eighth-grade members of the National Junior Honor Society, the activity was created to increase disability awareness in the school and community. The NJHS members designed adapted crafts and physical activities for students with special needs. Students in the Communication and Learning Support (CALS) and Functional Academic Learning Support (FALS) classes from Cockeysville Middle School, Perry Hall Middle School, Oakleigh Elementary, White Oak School, and Ridge Ruxton will also participate in the day's experiences, and sixth-graders from Pine Grove Middle will act as peer buddies for the students with special needs. Special guest Sen. Kathy Klausmeier will serve as the keynote speaker. Pine Grove Middle School is located at 9200 Old Harford Road in Carney.

Contact: Melissa Mast, Pine Grove Middle School, 410.887.5270

Halethorpe Elementary School to present the drama "Project Rescue and Save the Planet" on Wednesday, May 21

Students in grades 3, 4, and 5 will present "Project Rescue and Save the Planet" by Michael and Jill Gilling, under the guidance of Becky Miskimon and Leanne Chace. The performance will occur on Wednesday, May 21 at 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. Halethorpe Elementary is located at 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406

Halethorpe Elementary School pre-kindergarten screenings to occur Thursday, May 22

Pre-kindergarten screening will be held by appointment only for the 2008-2009 school year. Parents should call the school to have the child's name placed on the screening list. Parents should plan to schedule appointments two weeks in advance; information packets will be sent to parents who have called and requested an appointment. Halethorpe Elementary is located at 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406

Halethorpe Elementary School to host spring concert on Thursday, May 22

The fifth-grade band and orchestra at Halethorpe Elementary School, 4300 Maple Avenue in Halethorpe, will conduct its spring concert at 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, at the school.

Contact: Cheryl Fearer or Jill Bordenick, Halethorpe Elementary School, 410.887.1406

Randallstown Elementary hosts 2nd annual spelling bee on Thursday, May 22

Students in grades 3 through 5 at Randallstown Elementary School will compete to see who is the top speller in the school's annual bee. Community members, parents, teachers, and students are invited to attend. The event will be held on Thursday, May 22, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, at the school, 9013 Liberty Road in Randallstown.

Contact: Marcel Hall, Corrine Wertz or Valencia Perkins, Randallstown Elementary School, 410.887.0746

Sandy Plains Elementary to learn the 'economics in life" on Friday, May 23

On Friday, May 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., students in grades 4, 5, and 6 of Sandy Plains Elementary School have the opportunity to run banks, manage restaurants, read utility meters, write checks, and even vote when they visit Junior Achievement BizTown, located at 10711 Red Run Boulevard, Suite 110, in Owings Mills. The Junior Achievement BizTown Program begins with an in-class curriculum that encompasses financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship while providing a strong focus on social studies, reading, writing, and mathematics skills. The curriculum aligns with Maryland State Department of Education standards and is delivered by the students' teachers.

Contact: Harry Walker, Sandy Plains Elementary School, 410.887.7070

Perry Hall High School will host a CLICK event on Thursday, May 29

As part of an ongoing statewide Internet safety initiative called CLICKS (Community Leadership in Cyber Knowledge & Safety), there will be a program on Thursday, May 29, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Perry Hall High School that is designed to familiarize community leaders with Internet safety issues affecting young people and the extensive menu of web-based, age appropriate, interactive resources, available free from NetSmartz that can be integrated in lesson plans or in presentations to parents and community groups about keeping children and teens safer online. Perry Hall High School is located 4601 Ebenezer Road in Perry Hall.

Contact: Ryan Imbriale, Perry Hall High School, 410.887.5108

Warren Elementary School will present its 5th annual Talent Show on Friday, May 30

Warren Elementary School students will show off their many talents on Friday, May 30, during the school's fifth annual Talent Show, which begins at 1:15 p.m. at the school, which is located at 900 Bosley Road in Cockeysville. Some of the performances will include singing, dancing, comedy acts, magic tricks, and juggling, among other talents.

Contact: Susan Webb or Susan Eisenhart, Warren Elementary School, 410.887.7665

Randallstown Elementary School PTA sponsors Family Skate Night on Friday, May 30

On Friday, May 30, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Randallstown Elementary School bus loop will become a path for skating, skateboarding, and more with friends and family. Refreshments will be sold, and community members, parents, teachers, and students are invited to attend. The school is located at 9013 Liberty Road in Randallstown.

Contact: Corrine Wertz, Valencia Perkins, or Marcel Hall, Randallstown Elementary School, 410.887.0746

Seniors honored for academics, ethics at annual BCPS ceremony

communications@bcps.org — Mon, 05 May 2008 11:09:56 GMT

TOWSON, MD. (May 2, 2008) - In an overflowing hotel ballroom in Timonium, before a cheering crowd of family, friends, and administrators, 63 seniors from all 25 Baltimore County Public Schools high schools were recognized for their achievements as National Merit Scholars, National Achievement Scholars, and Ethics Award winners.

Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston called the 2008 Merit and Ethics Awards Ceremony, held on May 1 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, a "very symbolic night" and said that the honored students demonstrated that it was possible to reach the "world-class standards" established by the school system's Blueprint for Progress.

JoAnn C. Murphy, president of the Baltimore County Board of Education, said that the Board was very proud of the students, "because you excel academically and because you excel as ethical and involved human beings." She urged each graduate to find something he or she is passionate about and to make that his or her career. She added, "My fellow Board members and I are passionate about student achievement and progress."

Among the honored students were two Baltimore County Young Women of the Year, one Maryland Woman of Tomorrow, many students who earned perfect scores on portions of the SAT, several students with 4.0 grade point averages, winners of local, state, and regional competitions in speech, writing, Latin, robotics, and other fields, as well as accomplished musicians and artists and champion athletes.

Near the conclusion of the ceremony, the principal of each of Baltimore County's 25 high schools introduced the winner of that school's Ethics Award. Before presenting the award to the student from his school, Sparrows Point High School Principal Robert Santacroce noted that this year's award's ceremony was honoring a particularly strong group of students. "You are reminding me of why I am an educator," he said. "Thank you."

Following is a list of students honored at the ceremony. If available, the name of the college the student plans to attend is indicated.

2008 National Achievement Scholars from BCPS

Anna-Lisa M., Catonsville High School (Brandeis University)

Olivia T., Catonsville High School

Kenay S., Catonsville High School

Jill Y., Catonsville High School (Johns Hopkins University)

Cameron C., Catonsville High School (Princeton University)

Charles W., Eastern Technical High School (University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business)

Christopher O., Franklin High School (University of Connecticut)

Gieselle A., George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology (University of South Carolina)

2008 National Merit Scholars from BCPS

William F., Catonsville High School (Cornell University)

Melissa G., Catonsville High School (University of Notre Dame)

Kelly K., Catonsville High School (Northwestern University)

Kendall M., Catonsville High School

Douglass N., Catonsville High School (Princeton University)

Courtney N., Catonsville High School

Neal R., Catonsville High School

Edward W., Catonsville High School (University of South Carolina)

Corey B., Dulaney High School (Northwestern University)

Katherine G., Dulaney High School (New York University)

Yang H., Dulaney High School (Columbia University)

Jordan K., Dulaney High School (Virginia Tech)

Caitlin S., Dulaney High School (Kenyon College)

Richard T., Dulaney High School (University of Maryland College Park)

Jillian C., Franklin High School (University of Maryland College Park - Gemstone Program)

Todd N., Eastern Technical High School (St. Mary's College)

Zachary C., George Washington Carver Center for Arts & Technology (University of Chicago)

Jennifer D., Hereford High School (Princeton University)

Huayu D., Loch Raven High School (Columbia University)

Andrew D., Loch Raven High School (Virginia Tech)

Sara H., Loch Raven High School (Princeton University)

Joseph W., Loch Raven High School (George Washington University)

Ryan D. , Owings Mills High School (University of Maryland College Park)

Kendall R. , Parkville High School

Patrick B., Perry Hall High School (Penn State)

Logan A., Pikesville High School (University of Maryland College Park)

Clifton J., Towson High School (Johns Hopkins University)

Annemarie M., Towson High School

Amalie T., Towson High School (Harvard University)

2008 BCPS Ethics Award Winners

Kenay S., Catonsville High School (The College of William and Mary)

Olusola S., Chesapeake High School (Lebanon College)

Bridget C., Dulaney High School (The College of William and Mary)

Melanie D., Dundalk High School (Shepherd University)

Brandee S., Eastern Technical High School

Samantha R., Franklin High School (University of Maryland College Park - Gemstone Program)

Gabriella B., George Washington Carver Center for Arts & Technology (Yale University)

Madelyn S., Hereford High School (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

Marc J., Kenwood High School

Kelly F., Lansdowne High School (Villa Julie College)

Erica B., Loch Raven High School (Towson University)

Brandon C., Milford Mill Academy (Philadelphia University)

Stephanie S., New Town High School (The College of New Jersey)

Lindsay F., Overlea High School

Jared L., Owings Mills High School (University of Maryland College Park)

Julius D., Parkville High School (University of Pennsylvania)

Kiranjit K., Patapsco High School (University of Maryland College Park)

Sheldon F., Perry Hall High School

Stephen F., Pikesville High School (University of Illinois)

Amber R., Randallstown High School

Justin R., Sollers Point Technical High School (Johnson and Wales University)

Theresa C., Sparrows Point High School

Matthew C., Towson High School (Salisbury College)

Laura H., Western School of Technology

Chayla F., Woodlawn High School

2008 National Merit Scholars and National Achievement Scholars were selected through a process that begins with identification through the 2006 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).

More than 1.4 million juniors in over 21,000 high schools entered the 2008 National Merit Scholarship competition. The highest-scoring entrants in each state - representing less than one percent of a state's seniors - were selected to create a pool of some 16,000 semifinalists. To advance to finalist standing, semifinalists had to submit detailed scholarship applications, have outstanding academic records, be recommended by their schools, and earn strong SAT scores. Approximately 15,000 semifinalists met finalist requirements. By the conclusion of the 2008 competition, about 8,200 finalists will be selected to receive National Merit Scholarships totaling more than $36 million.

The National Achievement Scholarship program, for outstanding African American students, began with an initial pool of more than 140,000 students. In September 2007, approximately 1,600 of the highest scorers were named semifinalists on a regional representation basis. Some 1,300 semifinalists advanced to the finalist level based on their academic records, school recommendations, high SAT scores, and personal essays. The National Achievement Program is a privately financed academic competition established in 1964. The 2008 program marks 44 annual competitions in which more than 28,700 participants will have received scholarships worth approximately $91 million.

The Ethics Awards, presented annually since 1986, originated from a Baltimore County Public Schools task force on character education. These awards are given to the senior from each high school, who in the judgment of the school's administration and faculty, best demonstrates principles and values such as citizenship, honesty, fairness, respect, compassion, civility, and integrity. It is often described by school system leaders as the highest honor the school system bestows.

The 2008 Merit and Ethics Award Recognition Ceremony was taped by The Education Channel of Baltimore County Public Schools and can be viewed on Comcast Channel 73 at 7:00 p.m. on May 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29, and 31 and June 1, and at 3:00 a.m. on May 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, and 30.

Baltimore County's Teacher of the Year to be announced during May 5 ceremony

communications@bcps.org — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:02:08 GMT

What: Baltimore County Public Schools will announce the selection of its Teacher of the Year for 2008-2009 during a special ceremony. Always a highlight of the school year, the Teacher of the Year ceremony will feature BCPS Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston and three finalists for Teacher of the Year honors - John Billingslea, an AP social studies teacher at Franklin HS; Deirdre Austen, a 4th grade teacher at Lutherville Laboratory elementary school; and Judith Henderson, a reading specialist at Lutherville Laboratory. Members of the Board of Education, past honorees, and county officials also are expected to join in the celebration of teachers and the teaching profession.

When: Monday, May 5, 2008, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Where: Board of Education meeting room, ESS Building, Greenwood
6901 Charles Street, Towson

Background:

The annual Teacher of the Year ceremony is a prelude to the state Teacher of the Year competition. Baltimore County's winner will move on to state competition, beginning with recognition from the State Board of Education on May 29 and culminating with the announcement of Maryland's Teacher of the Year in October. For the Baltimore County winner, the county's business community has joined with BCPS as partners for the event, including the Baltimore Area Toyota Dealers, who each year present the BCPS Teacher of the Year with the use of a new Toyota for one year.

34th Annual Career and Technology Education dinner recognizes 131 BCPS seniors

communications@bcps.org — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:27:42 GMT

TOWSON, MD. (May 2, 2008) - On Wednesday, April 30, in a ballroom filled with nearly 700 guests, Baltimore County Public Schools honored 131 Career and Technology Education program seniors during a banquet at Martin's West in Woodlawn.

The students recognized at the 34th Annual Career and Technology Education Dinner were those who demonstrated excellence in their programs, which include Business Education, School to Career Transition, Family Studies, Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, Technology Education, and various technical programs. These career preparation programs are sequences of related courses that prepare students with the rigorous academic and technical skills needed to enter the workforce and/or postsecondary education. As Leila Walker, coordinator of the BCPS Office of Career and Technology Education, noted, virtually all of the programs are aligned with courses of study at the Community College of Baltimore County, and many students graduate eligible for as many 23 free credits at the college.

In his remarks at the event, Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston acknowledged the contributions of parents, Career and Technology Education staff, area assistant superintendents, business partners, and the Maryland State Department of Education.

Board President JoAnn C. Murphy expressed the Board's pride in the students' accomplishments and said that their achievements encourage the Board to continue and intensify its work to ensure that all students are successful in college, careers, and life. Other Board members participating in the event included Earnest E. Hines, Rodger C. Janssen, Mary Margaret O'Hare, Joseph J. Pallozzi, Joy Shillman, and student member Audrey Dittman.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation by Stephen Crum, chair of the Baltimore County Career and Technology Education Advisory Council, of the 8th Annual Anthony G. Marchione Scholarships (named in honor of a former BCPS superintendent). One student, named the overall winner, received a total of $2,000 in scholarships (a $500 area scholarship and $1,500 additional prize) for her academic and technical achievement, community and school service, and employment success. The 2008 top honoree was Jasmine T. of Chesapeake High School, a School to Career Transition student representing the Southeast Area. Four other students, one from each of the school system's other geographic areas, received $500 scholarships each. They are:

Southwest Area: Michelle B., Lansdowne High School, Business Management and Finance - Academy of Finance

Northwest Area: Britney M., Milford Mill Academy, Consumer Service, Hospitality, and Tourism - Cosmetology Careers

Central Area: Miles C., Dulaney High School, Business Management and Finance - Finance and Accounting

Northeast Area: Ryan S., Eastern Technical High School Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology - Engineering Careers

Other evening highlights included: presentations by student Leigha C. of Overlea High School, who served as mistress of ceremonies, and student Steve R. of Eastern Technical High School, who offered reflections on his experiences as a CTE student; the airing of a video about the CTE program created by students at Dundalk High School; the Presentation of Colors by the Junior ROTC from Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts; a performance by the Sudbrook Middle School Jazz Ensemble (directed by music teacher Andrew Mitroff); and floral centerpieces created by students at Hereford High School.

The annual Career and Technology Education Student Recognition Dinner began in 1975 when a group of Baltimore County Public Schools counselors (now known as the Baltimore County Association for Counseling and Development) decided to honor those seniors who demonstrated outstanding achievement in their Career and Technology Education programs.

The dinner is now coordinated each year by this group and the Baltimore County Career and Technology Education Advisory Council. One volunteer, Marilyn Ryan, has assisted with the planning of at least 32 of the dinners including this year's. More than 55 business supporters contributed funds to cover the cost of dinner for all 2008 student honorees and to support the Marchione scholarship program.

34th Annual Baltimore County Public Schools Career and Technology Education Student Recognition Dinner

Student Honorees

SOUTHEAST AREA

Chesapeake High School

Steven R., Business Management and Finance

Keith T., Human Resource Services - Criminal Justice Technology

Joshua A., JROTC - Marine Corps

Jasmine T., School to Career Transition

Diamonde G., Technology Education

Dundalk High School

Thomas R., Arts, Media, and Communication - Audio Video Communications

Lawrence H., Business Management and Finance - Marketing

David B., Construction and Development - Construction Craft Technician

Jamie D., Consumer Services, Hospitality, and Tourism - Nutrition and Food Science Associate

Scott J., JROTC - Navy

Alan A., School to Career Transition

Tensia M., Technology Education

Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts

Nathan S., Business Management and Finance - Finance and Accounting

Emily M., Human Resource Services - Criminal Justice Technology

Amanda K., JROTC-Army

Andrew A., School to Career Transition

Marah W., Technology Education

Sollers Point Technical High School

Ayisha B., Arts, Media, and Communication - Graphics/Print Communications Technology

Casey H., Business Management and Finance - Information Systems Management

Weston M., Construction and Development - Carpentry Careers

Justin R., Consumer Service, Hospitality, and Tourism - Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management

Tiffany C., Health and Biosciences - Allied Health

Miles C., Information Technology - Network Administration and Design

Jonathan R., Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology - Industrial Engineering

Michael E., School to Career Transition

Christopher H., Transportation Technology - Automotive Service Technology

Sparrows Point High School

Jennifer S., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

Stacie B., School to Career Transition

The Community College of Baltimore County - Dundalk

Brittney O., Business Management

SOUTHWEST AREA

Catonsville High School

Azita G., Arts, Media, and Communications - Intermedia Communications

Thomas C., Jr., Business Management and Finance

Mallory S., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

W. Isaiah T., School to Career Transition

Austin A., Technology Education

Lansdowne High School

Michelle B., Business Management and Finance - Academy of Finance

Doug O., Construction and Development - Electrical Careers

Samantha M., Environmental, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Systems - Horticulture

Cennethia J., School to Career Transition

Western School of Technology and Environmental Science

Christopher B., Arts, Media, and Communication - Graphic/Print Communications Technology

Lionel T., Consumer Services, Hospitality, and Tourism - Culinary Arts & Restaurant Management

Felicity H., Environmental, Agricultural, and Natural Resources Systems - Environmental Technology

Heather M., Health and Biosciences - Health Science Technology

Floyd H., Information Technology - Network Administration and Design

Jaylin G., School to Career Transition

Jason P., Transportation Technology - Automotive Service Technology

Woodlawn High School

Jasmin C., Business Management and Finance - Marketing

Shinera M., Health & Biosciences - Fire/EMS Services

Amber B., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

Samrendar S., JROTC - Navy

Candace B., School to Career Transition

NORTHEAST AREA

Eastern Technical High School

Jessica M., Arts, Media, and Communication - Multimedia Communications

Raymond G., Business Management and Finance - Business Administration Technology

David B., Construction and Development - Construction Management

Kathryn W., Consumer Services, Hospitality, and Tourism - Culinary Arts

Steve R., Health and Biosciences - Allied Health

Andrew L., Human Resources Services - Criminal Justice Technology

David M., Information Technology, Cisco

Ryan S., Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology - Engineering Careers

Ian J., School to Career Transition

Amir B., Transportation Technology - Auto Service Technology

Kenwood High School

Joseph J., Arts Media, and Communications - Graphic/Print Communications Technology

Stephanie Y., Business Management and Finance - Business Management

Michael D., Construction and Development - Carpentry Careers

Nichole P., Human Resources Services - Child Development

Justin V., JROTC - Air Force

Stephanie R., School to Career Transition

Overlea High School

Kristin O., Arts, Media, and Communication - Audio/Video Communication

Leigha C., Business Management and Finance - Academy of Finance

Ethan T., Construction and Development - Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Diana F., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

Trishawna R., JROTC - Marine Corps

Elise D., School to Career Transition

Parkville High School

Alexander T., Arts, Media, and Communication - Intermedia Communications

Amanda F., Business Management and Finance

Kyle B., Information Technology - Cisco

Brittany W., JROTC - Marine Corps

Jamaal J., School to Career Transition

Robert H., Technology Education

Perry Hall High School

Black R., Business Management and Finance

Nicole W., Community Work Experience

David S., Construction and Development - Construction Craft Technician

Victoria L., Human Resources - School Age Child Development and Care

Amanda G., School to Career Transition

Michael B., Technology Education

NORTHWEST AREA

Franklin High School

Jordan C., JROTC - Marine Corps

Kelia B., School to Career Transition

Milford Mill Academy

Chibueze A., Business Management and Finance

Britney M., Consumer Service, Hospitality, and Tourism - Cosmetology Careers

Jewel Y., Health and Biosciences - Allied Health/Rehabilitative Therapeutic Fitness

Cory E., Information Technology - Computer System and Network Technician

Darryll H., JROTC - Marine Corps

Brittany B., Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology

Le'Andre B., School to Career Transitions

Brandon B., Technology Education

Brandon S., Transportation Technology - Automotive Service Technology

New Town High School

Nicole R., Business Management and Finance - Finance and Accounting

Kadeem E., Construction and Development - Construction Management

Aldoris M., Human Resources - Child Care Services

Denia C., School to Career Transition

Katrina S., Technology Education

Owings Mills High School

Adam Z., Business Management and Finance

Kevin W., Construction and Development - Construction Craft Technician

Kiara N., School to Career Transition

Michael L., Technology Education

Pikesville High School

Hyein Y., Arts, Media, and Communication - Multimedia Communications

William C., School to Career Transition

Randallstown High School

Jasma J., Business Management and Finance

Stacey S., JROTC - Navy

Jasmine D., School to Career Transition

CENTRAL AREA

Dulaney High School

Miles C., Business Management and Finance - Finance and Accounting

Becca M., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

Matthew D., Technology Education

Raven G., School to Career Transition

Patrick S., Technology Education

George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology

Alex L., Arts, Media, and Communication - Digital Filmmaking

Melanie M., Business Management and Finance - Information Systems Management

Christopher G., Construction and Development - Carpentry Careers

Stella C., Consumer Services, Hospitality, and Tourism - Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management

Jason J., Information Technology

Hereford High School

Amanda D., Business Management and Finance - Finance and Accounting

Brianna R., Environmental, Agricultural, and Natural Resources Systems - Horticulture

Alexandra B., Human Resource Services - School Age Child Development and Care

Aaron B., School to Career Transition

William S., Technology Education

Loch Raven High School

Kyle B., Community Work Experience

Jazmine C., Human Resource Services - Child Care Services

Sarah T., Information Technology

Mary M., School to Career Transition

Ryan B., Technology Education

Towson High School

General L., Information Technology - Cisco

Justin G., School to Career Transition

Board of Education of Baltimore County to meet on Tuesday, May 6

communications@bcps.org — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:47:49 GMT

TOWSON, MD. - The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Education of Baltimore County will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2008.

The Building and Contracts Committee of the Board will meet at approximately 3:00 p.m. The full Board will meet in open session at approximately 5:15 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 to a closed session. The Board will resume its open session at approximately 7:30 p.m.

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.

Lansdowne Academy of Finance luncheon to thank business partners

communications@bcps.org — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:39:58 GMT

What: More than 250 guests, including area business leaders, college administrators, elected officials, students, parents, and faculty will gather for Lansdowne High School's Academy of Finance luncheon. The annual event is an opportunity to thank business partners for providing job shadowing and internship experiences for students, to acknowledge the academic achievement of students, and to honor graduating seniors. In addition to greetings from Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston, the event will feature student speakers describing how they were able to apply their classroom lessons to on-the-job experiences. Each of the 21 Lansdowne High Academy of Finance seniors will be introduced, and information will be shared about awards and scholarships they have won as well as their college plans. All have been accepted by either two-year or four-year colleges.

When: Friday, May 2, 2008, from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Where: Snyder's Willow Grove Restaurant
841 N. Hammonds Ferry Road
Linthicum, 21090

(Take I-695 west to Exit 8 (Hammonds Ferry Road, toward MD 168/Nursery Road). Make a slight left onto N. Hammonds Ferry Road.)

Background:

Established in 1982, the Academy of Finance introduces students to the broad career opportunities in the financial services industry and, in the process, equips them to make sound choices for the future. Through teachers and industry mentors, the Academy provides students with the curriculum and guidance necessary for rewarding careers.

A member program of the National Academy Foundation, the Academy of Finance operates as a "school within a school" and is located in more than 275 high schools nationwide.

Approximately 121 students are currently in the Academy of Finance at Lansdowne. Over the past decade, approximately 99 percent of Lansdowne Academy of Finance students have graduated and immediately continued their studies in two- or four-year colleges.