Baltimore County Public Schools

Engage. Empower. Excel.

June 17, 2024 Community Update: Fast Forward—Priorities in Action

Today, June 17, 2024, Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers shared progress and highlights from the 2023-2024 school year and reviewed system priorities and initiatives to bolster student achievement.

Full Message / Spanish

June 14, 2024 Community Update: Tuition Free Program at Maryland Institutes of Higher Education

The BCPS Tuition Free Program covers tuition, fees, and books for students in 11th and 12th grades who have met College and Career Readiness Standards, as outlined in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. In alignment with Blueprint requirements, students who have met College and Career Readiness Standards are eligible to have up to two courses in the Fall semester and two courses in the Spring semester paid for by BCPS. The courses must be credit-bearing, in an approved program of study, or courses leading to industry credentials at CCBC or other public Maryland universities. All courses must be approved through the advisement by the school counselor. The updates to the Tuition Free Program go into effect at the conclusion of the 2023-2024 school year.  

Full Message / Spanish

June 14, 2024 Community Update: End of Year Message from Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers

Dear Team BCPS—
 
Happy last day of school! The end of a school year provides a great opportunity for us to pause for reflection, celebrate the successes of the year, and plan for the year ahead. I want to thank all members of the Team BCPS community for a great year of learning, growth, and partnership. I am so proud of our staff and students for all they have accomplished, and I cannot be prouder of the more than 7,000 students who just graduated from our schools and are on their way to higher education and bright careers.

Full Message / Spanish

June 11, 2024 Community Update: Student Device Repair and Replacement for the 2024-2025 School Year

For the 2024-2025 school year, students and their parents/caregivers will be financially responsible for intentional damage to or loss of any Chromebook or other devices assigned to the student. As an instructional tool, there is no initial cost for BCPS students to receive a Chromebook or other devices. Students/families are only financially responsible when there is avoidable damage to the device. Fees related to repair or replacement of a damaged device will be outlined in a repair cost chart that will be shared this summer. Schools will be responsible for the collection of damage/replacement fees and working with students and families to ensure that these obligations are met. As a first step to establishing this process, the BCPS Department of Information Technology is currently working to establish a new management tool that will integrate with several existing systems, including MySchoolBucks. This new system will invoice students/families for repairs and track devices and damages across the district. More information about the new system will be shared later.

Full message / Spanish

June 11, 2024 Staff Update: Systemwide Professional Development Schedule for the 2024-2025 School Year

Greetings,

Below is the schedule for Teacher Pre-Service week and the Systemwide Professional Development dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Additionally, information regarding teacher development plans and training is provided for your planning purposes. Please note the dates identified for School-Based Professional Development and those identified for Systemic Content. All training will be conducted in-person. Except for staff using leave time, staff should report to offices and schools, unless another location is designated for professional learning. 

Full Message / Spanish

June 6, 2024 Community Update: Share Your Thoughts--BCPS Survey On Student Cell phone Use

Team BCPS parents, caregivers and students--

BCPS wants to hear your thoughts on how student cell phone misuse impacts classroom instruction and learning. Team BCPS students, parents/caregivers, and stakeholders are invited to share their feedback by completing a brief survey. The survey closes June 11.

https://forms.office.com/r/q7U4uYPT3s

Spanish

June 4, 2024 Community Update: Changes to the Student Athlete Registration Process

Dear Parents, Caregivers, and Students,

BCPS is pleased to announce an important update regarding our BCPS student athlete registration process. After careful consideration and evaluation, we have decided to transition from the Form ReLeaf paperless registration platform to the BCPS Focus platform.

Full Message / Spanish

June 3, 2024 Community Update: Summer Breakfast and Lunch Program to Begin on Thursday, June 20

Free summer meals to be provided to all youth ages 2-18; new option will provide bulk meals for families in rural areas Baltimore County Public Schools will offer free breakfast and lunch meals through the Summer Food Service Program on weekdays from Thursday, June 20, through Friday, August 16 (with the exception of Thursday, July 4). Free meals are available for all children ages 2-18.

Full Message / Spanish

May 23, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent's Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers held a media availability today, May 23, 2024, to share updates and information on the Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget, Omnilert weapons detection system, recruitment and staffing, and end-of-school-year reminders for Team BCPS. Dr. Rogers also welcomed several special guests to the event, including Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, Baltimore County Council Chair Izzy Patoka and Council members Pat Young. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

May 22, 2024 Staff Update: 2024-2025 Organizational Chart and Realignment

Dear Colleagues—

Thank you for your commitment to being a vital member of Team BCPS. Together, we will continue to focus our resources of people, time, and funding closer to schools to create experiences that enable all students to achieve improved learning outcomes. We are reimagining our leadership structure to further strengthen the coordination, collaboration and strategic support for our schools and offices. The Fiscal Year 2025 organizational structure strategically aligns our work and focus on teaching and learning. FY25 includes the following changes:

Full Message / Spanish

May 21, 2024 Community Update: Firearm Detection System Implemented in All BCPS Schools

Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) is implementing firearm detection technology in all school buildings through internal and external cameras. This technology allows select BCPS and Baltimore County Police Department personnel to receive an alert when a firearm is displayed. On several occasions,  school staff and BCoPD personnel have received alerts outside of school hours when individuals displayed look-alike firearms on school property in view of cameras.

Full Message / Spanish

May 3, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Dundalk High School Community Stakeholder Meeting Set for May 8

A community stakeholder meeting will be held in the auditorium at Dundalk High School on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 6 p.m.  At this meeting, the design team will present the progress of the design for the addition project. After the project introduction, there will be an opportunity for community members to ask questions and provide feedback.

Full Message / Spanish

May 3, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Dulaney High School Community Stakeholder Meeting Set for May 8

A community stakeholder meeting will be held in the auditorium at Dulaney High School on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 6 p.m.  At this meeting, the design team will present the progress of the design for the project. After the project introduction, there will be an opportunity for community members to ask questions and provide feedback.

Full Message / Spanish

April 29, 2024 Staff and Community Update: BCPS Student Career Expo Set for May 8

Wednesday, May 8, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 5-7 p.m.

CCBC Catonsville Wellness Center, 800 S. Rolling Rd., Catonsville 21228

This event is for students who are interested in learning more about vocational careers and apprenticeship programs available in the Baltimore County area.

Full Message / Spanish

April 24, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Message from Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers Regarding Pikesville High School Investigation

Dear Team BCPS—

I am writing to provide an important update on the Pikesville High School investigation. This morning, Baltimore County Police officers arrested Dazhon Darien, the Pikesville High School athletic director, on multiple charges stemming from an investigation the Baltimore County Police Department launched in reference to the January 17, 2024, release of an audio recording allegedly of Principal Eric Eiswert. This afternoon, I joined the county executive, chief of police, and the state’s attorney for a joint press conference so that the police could provide an update on the investigation and I could address next steps for the Pikesville High School community and Team BCPS.

Full Message / Spanish

April 24, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Community Notice: Instructional Materials Available for Review

As outlined in Policy and Rule 6002, prior to consideration by the Board of Education of Baltimore County, all instructional materials intended for systemwide student use will be placed on public display to provide parents/caregivers, staff and community members an opportunity for review and comment. Current instructional materials under review are linked below:

Full Message / Spanish

April 24, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Updated Information: Staff Professional Development -- Summer 2024

Dear Colleagues—

BCPS is committed to improving, expanding, and aligning professional learning opportunities for all Team BCPS staff. Comprehensive, engaging and effective professional development is vital to moving our school system forward.

Full Message / Spanish

April 16, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers held a media availability today, April 16, to share updates and information on the Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget, recently released state data on the BCPS graduation rate, the 2024 Summer Food Service Program, safety and security, and upcoming events. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

April 8, 2024 Community Update: Community Meeting Scheduled for April 24 to Discuss Design of Towson High School Capital Project

The design team working on the Towson High School capital improvement project will have its second opportunity to share progress on the project with the community. During the presentation, the team will provide updates on the project design and overall schedule, and share several drawings and renderings prepared to date. 

Full Message / Spanish

April 8, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Solar Eclipse Information and Safety Tips

A partial solar eclipse will take place on Monday, April 8, 2024. In Baltimore County, the eclipse will occur from approximately 2:05 – 4:35 p.m., with maximum coverage at 3:21 p.m. During the eclipse, there will be 88 percent coverage during which it will get darker outside, but there will not be total darkness. All Baltimore County Public Schools dismiss at some point during the eclipse period. Please note that dismissal will occur as scheduled.

Full Message / Spanish

March 22, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Fast Forward Update From Superintendent Myriam Rogers

Dear Team BCPS—

Over the last nine months, we have worked relentlessly to engage and empower Team BCPS and to deliver on the promise to fast forward student achievement and move our system forward. We have held 17 community engagement meetings where hundreds of staff, students, families, and stakeholders have come together to share strategic ideas and solutions. We continue to collaborate with our five employee associations and all cabinet members, and hold regular, multi-stakeholder advisories to gather input. As we move into spring break, I wanted to take a moment to review our efforts in our four system priority areas—academic achievement, infrastructure, safety and climate, and highly effective teachers, leaders, and staff. By strategically targeting resources, investments, and support in these critical areas, we will excel as a system and build an innovative and collaborative learning community where all students reach their highest potential.

Full Message / Spanish

March 11, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Cell Phone Policy Reminder and Resources for Families

Dear Team BCPS Families—

As we shared on September 26, 2023, and February 2, 2024, our cell phone policy is fully in effect for the 2023-2024 school year. While students may bring personal phones to school, the phones should not be used during class time or used inappropriately at any time during the school day. Failure to follow these rules will result in disciplinary actions against your child. We understand there are several reasons why parents/guardians have their children bring phones to school, however, they are a distraction and cause significant disruption to the learning environment. Please let your child know that cell phones and school time don’t mix and students who violate the cell phone policy will receive consequences. 

Full Message / Spanish

March 4, 2024 Staff Update: Forward with Oracle ERP Update

Dear Colleagues—

We are pleased to provide an update on the Oracle Cloud ERP human resources and fiscal services implementation project. This is a significant project for our school system that will elevate our systems, streamline processes, and enhance overall efficiency.

Full Message

February 29, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers held a media availability today, February 29, to share updates and information on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 operating budget, upcoming community engagement events, the March 12 job fair, and BCPS’ ribbon cutting ceremony for Red House Run Elementary School. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

February 27, 2024 Staff and Community Update: FY 2025 Operating Budget—Working Together to Fast Forward Student Achievement

WATCH THE BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO

Dear Team BCPS—

Tonight, the Board of Education of Baltimore County will vote on the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 operating budget. I proposed a $2.58 billion budget request in January following months of thoughtful planning and collaboration with Team BCPS staff, families, and stakeholders. As shared over the last several months, this was an incredibly challenging budget cycle for Team BCPS. 

Full Message / Spanish

February 23, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Changes to Transportation Services for Middle School Students

The Board of Education adopted changes to Board Policy 3410, Transportation Services, in January 2023. Revised transportation boundaries were created and became effective July 1, 2023. This school year, transportation services are provided for high school students who reside more than 1.75 miles from their home school. Changes to middle school transportation zones will go into effect at the start of the 2024-2025 school year. Transportation services will be provided for middle school students who reside more than 1.25 miles from their home school. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has begun the process of identifying neighborhoods and students who will be impacted by this change and additional information will be shared with schools and families in April.

Full Message / Spanish

February 22, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Team BCPS Families, Staff and Stakeholders Invited to Participate in Curriculum Nights and Community Conversations

Team BCPS students, parents, caregivers, and stakeholders are invited to participate in the 2024 BCPS Curriculum Nights. These events are opportunities for families to learn more about BCPS curriculum and system efforts to improve instruction in English language arts, mathematics, early childhood education, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), and special education. BCPS staff will also discuss what families can expect to see their children learning in the academic priority areas and will provide tips and resources on how to support students at home. 

Full Message / Spanish

February 16, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Save the Date! 2024 Mind Over Matters Conference Set for March 9

BCPS is hosting its annual Mind Over Matter Annual Conference on Saturday, March 9, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology. The goal of this event is to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and substance use prevention. This event is for all BCPS students and their parents/caregivers.

Full Message

February 15, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Superintendent Rogers Provides Comprehensive Update and Addresses Staff and Community Concerns on Proposed FY2025 Operating Budget

On February 13, Superintendent Dr. Rogers provided a comprehensive presentation to the Board of Education and Team BCPS on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget. The presentation focused on student need, master scheduling, staffing, and class sizes.

Full Message

February 15, 2024 Staff and Community Update: Parents/families, School Staff Invited to Participate in Online Discussions About the BCPS School Counseling Program

Baltimore County Public Schools is transforming its school counseling program to make the program even more accessible, relevant, and effective. Parents/families and school staff are invited to participate in online Microsoft Teams discussions to offer feedback about their experiences with the current school counseling program and ideas for the future. The meetings will be hosted by Dr. Kim Ferguson, executive director, Department of Social-Emotional Support Services; Patricia Mustipher, director,  Office of Student Support; and MaatenRe Ramin, coordinator, Office of School Counseling.   

Full Message / Spanish

February 5, 2024, Staff and Community Update: Important Message from Board Chair Tiara Booker-Dwyer Regarding the FY 25 Operating Budget 

Dear Team BCPS—

On February 27, 2024, the Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget. We thank Dr. Rogers for her work to develop a fiscally sound budget that reflects the efforts of the school system to fast forward student achievement. We want all members of Team BCPS to know that we are committed to approving a budget request that will meet the needs of more than 110,000 students and 20,000 staff and help move this system forward. Ahead of this vote, we want to ensure that the community understands what Superintendent Myriam Rogers has outlined in her proposal and clear up any misconceptions about the request.

Full message / Spanish

February 5, 2024, Staff and Community Update: 2024 BCPS Climate Survey Launches Today!

The annual BCPS Climate Survey has been revised with fewer questions and a focus on school climate and engagement. Students in Grades 3–12, parents/caregivers, community members, and all staff are asked to complete the online survey, which is accessible from the BCPS home page. The survey takes three minutes or less to complete, is anonymous, and is available in multiple languages. The survey window will close on Friday, March 8.

Full message / Spanish

February 5, 2024, Staff Update: Important Inclement Weather Reminders for Team BCPS Staff

Dear Staff

The BCPS Virtual Day Plan outlines our plan to transition to virtual learning after three inclement weather days.  As you know, we have had two inclement weather closures so far this school year. Once we have the third full-day closure, when inclement weather is forecasted and we must make the decision to close schools, we will notify staff and families of our transition to virtual learning.

Full Message

February 5, 2024, Community Update: Important Inclement Weather Reminders for Team BCPS

Dear Team BCPS

BCPS has had two inclement weather closures so far this school year. As outlined in our Virtual Inclement Weather Day Plan for the 2023-2024 school year, we will transition to virtual school days after we have had three inclement weather closures. After those three full-day closures, when inclement weather is forecasted, we will monitor the weather forecast and families will be notified as soon as possible if BCPS transitions to virtual learning that day. Students will be reminded to bring devices, chargers, and other instructional materials home. Staff will also be asked to prepare lessons and materials.

Full Message / Spanish

February 2, 2024, Staff Update: 2024 Summer Professional Development

Dear Colleagues—

BCPS is committed to improving, expanding, and aligning professional learning opportunities for all Team BCPS staff. Comprehensive, engaging and effective professional development is vital to moving our school system forward.

We are excited to focus on professional learning and pleased to share our 2024 in- person, summer professional development (PD) schedule. Staff are strongly encouraged to attend all applicable professional learning sessions this summer. BCPS has targeted significant resources to develop collaborative learning environments and opportunities for all staff. Please note, staff who do not complete their professional learning on the identified PD days will be required to participate in makeup sessions in the fall.

Full message / Spanish

February 2, 2024, Staff and Community Update: Safety Reminders

The second semester is underway, and I want to share some important reminders for our students and families to ensure we are working together to create safe environments for all and preserve and protect teaching and learning. Positive and secure school climates have a tremendous impact on student well-being and learning and we continue to make significant investments in comprehensive safety measures to ensure all students and staff are safe.

Full message / Spanish

January 30, 2024, Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

 

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) held a media availability today, January 30, to share important system updates on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 operating budget and BCPS’ efforts to address chronic absenteeism, provide safety reminders for Team BCPS and information on two upcoming job fairs and a ribbon cutting ceremony. Dr. Rogers also provided a brief update on the Pikesville High School investigation and answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

January 17, 2024, Staff and Community Update: Message from Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers Regarding Pikesville High School

Dear BCPS Families -

This morning, the BCPS Department of Schools received information regarding an audio recording, allegedly of the principal of Pikesville High School, that is circulating on social media and to the Pikesville High School community. On the recording, an individual is heard making highly offensive and inappropriate statements about African American students, Pikesville High School staff, and Pikesville’s Jewish community. These statements are deeply disturbing and do not reflect the core values of our school system. Although BCPS cannot confirm the veracity of this recording at this time, we are taking this matter seriously and have launched an investigation. Once we have determined the facts, we will swiftly address this incident.

Full Message / Spanish

January 12, 2024, Staff and Community Update: College and Career Readiness Exams, Early Access Programs and Opportunities for BCPS Secondary Students

Dear BCPS Families -

Baltimore County Public Schools has a comprehensive strategy to ensure all students are learning at high levels, have access to and participate in innovative programs, and are prepared to thrive in college, career and the community. Our strategy, which is in alignment with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Pillar 3: College and Career Readiness, includes providing important career and college readiness examinations and robust early access programs and opportunities to secondary students, many at no cost. This includes—

Full Message / Spanish

January 11, 2024, Community Update: Nominations Open Jan. 16 for Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year

All Team BCPS parents, guardians, students, staff and community members are invited to nominate outstanding administrators for BCPS Principal of the Year (POY) and Assistant Principal of the Year (APOY) for 2024-25.  Finalists for each level (elementary, middle, and high) will participate in the BCPS Principal of the Year and BCPS Assistant Principal of the Year competitions and the April celebration, along with the Teacher of the Year (TOY) finalists. The annual program is a great opportunity to recognize excellent leaders. 

Full Message / Spanish

January 11, 2024, Staff and Community Update: Superintendent Rogers recommends $2.58 billion operating budget for FY 2025

Dear Team BCPS,

Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) formally presented a $2.58 billion operating budget proposal for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to the Board of Education on Jan. 9. Dr. Rogers also shared highlights of her request with elected officials, school and central office administrators, and members of the Team BCPS community on Jan. 8. If you missed the presentation, you can watch it online. 

Full message / Spanish

December 19, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) held a media availability today, December 19, to share important system updates. Dr. Rogers announced the launch of a new partnership with Talkspace, shared highlights of BCPS’ 2023 Maryland School Report Card results, and provided updates on prekindergarten expansion and the Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget process. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full message / Spanish

December 13, 2023, Staff and Community Update: MSDE Releases 2023 Maryland School Report Card

Dear Team BCPS Parents, Guardians, Staff and Students -

Today, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) released new accountability information for each public school system in the state, including the Star ratings for individual schools. These new Star Ratings are calculated using 2022–2023 school year accountability data. Since 2017–2018, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has reported on accountability components outlined in the Maryland Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Plan which evaluates school systems and individual schools on a set of criteria.

Full message / Spanish

November 28, 2023, Staff and Community Update:  Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

Watch the Press Conference

Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) held a media availability today, November 28, to share updates on the 2023-2024 school year. Dr. Rogers provided updates on prekindergarten expansion, two new capital projects that will be completed in January, the Fiscal Year 2025 operating budget process, and a new mental health support line that will be piloted for students in select middle schools. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

October 31, 2023, Community Update:  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Virtual Learning and Asynchronous Instruction Days

On Oct. 30, Team BCPS staff and families received information regarding adjustments to the 2023-2024 school year calendar. We have received questions from members of the community regarding our plan for Dec. 22 and May 17 and the following FAQs provide important information and context about BCPS’ use of virtual and asynchronous learning days for students.

Full Message / Spanish

October 30, 2023 Staff and Community Update:   2023-2024 School Year Calendar Adjustments – Asynchronous Learning Days Planned for Dec. 22 and May 17

Dear Team BCPS staff and families,

We are writing to inform you of two adjustments to the 2023-2024 school year calendar. Schools and offices are scheduled to close three hours early on December 22, 2023, and May 17, 2024. During these two early release days, students will engage in asynchronous learning (virtual, self-paced) while teachers and staff engage in planning and professional development.

Full Message / Spanish

October 24, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

October 24, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) held a media availability today, October 24, to share updates on the 2023-2024 school year. Dr. Rogers provided updates on the system’s response to the Israel-Gaza crisis, school safety and security, the Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget, implementation of the transition team’s recommendations, and the new bus locator and mental health apps. Dr. Rogers also answered questions from the media.

Full Message / Spanish

October 24, 2023 Update: Staff and Community Update: Statement from Superintendent Rogers on the Israel-Gaza Crisis

At her October 24, 2023 press availability, Dr. Rogers (Yarbrough) shared the following remarks regarding the war in Israel and Gaza.

“I want to take a moment to talk about the crisis in Israel and Gaza and the significant impact it is having on BCPS students, staff, and families. I know that the terror, loss of life and turmoil has caused great fear and worry for many members of our local and global community, and it is critical that we come together to support one another and reaffirm our collective commitment to keeping our schools and offices safe and free of hate, antisemitism, islamophobia, and bias.

Full Message

October 11, 2023 Update: Staff and Community Resources For Conversations About Global Crisis

A Message from Baltimore County Public Schools on the Violence in Israel and Gaza: Supporting Conversations with Your Child

Team BCPS’ heartfelt thoughts are with students, families, and staff members impacted by the violent and tragic events in Israel and Gaza. The impact of violent and traumatic events can be confusing, overwhelming, and frightening, resulting in feelings of fear or worry. Students, families, and staff with direct ties to the area of conflict might experience increased anxiety or stress that could be complicated by information shared on media outlets. Adults may also experience feelings of anxiety or stress when managing emotions and providing explanations to children. Children will look to adults for information and guidance on how to manage their emotions and cope with the various sources of information.    

Full Message / Spanish

September 28, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Community Conversation Operating Budget

Baltimore County Public Schools
Community Conversations
Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget Forums

Superintendent Dr. Myriam Rogers will host five “Community Conversations” regarding the development of the BCPS Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget. Please join us to provide input on the process and share ideas on areas you believe BCPS should prioritize in the budget and investments the system should make to ensure it provides the greatest public education to every student. In addition to the budget forums, Team BCPS staff, parents, students and members of the community are encouraged to complete the FY 25 Budget Priorities Stakeholder Survey. The survey is available in multiple languages.

Full Message / Spanish

September 26, 2023, Staff and Community Update: BCPS Launches Bus Locator App for Families

BCPS is pleased to announce the countywide implementation of BusWhere, a location tracking software that allows subscribers to see bus locations in real time on a mobile phone or computer. Via the BusWhere app, subscribers may opt to receive notification as the bus is approaching a designated bus stop or if there are significant delays.

BCPS families can expect to receive an email invitation from BusWhere to create an account the week of October 1, 2023. Watch this informational video to learn more about BusWhere!

Full Message / Spanish

September 26, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent’s September 2023 Press Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Full Message / Spanish

September 26, 2023, Community Update: Reminder: Cell Phone Policy in Effect for 2023-2024 School Year

Dear Team BCPS:

We are writing to provide an important reminder about student cell phone use and expectations. While students may bring personal phones to school, the phones should not be used during class time or used inappropriately at any time during the school day. Failure to follow these rules will result in disciplinary actions against your child. We understand there are a number of reasons why parents/guardians have their children bring phones to school, however, they are a distraction and cause significant disruption to the learning environment. Please let your child know that cell phones and school time don’t mix and students who violate the cell phone policy will receive consequences.

Full Message / Spanish

September 19, 2023, Community Update: SAT School Day, PSAT, ACT and ASVAB Assessment Information for the 2023-2024 School Year

As part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure access and opportunity for all students, Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) provides important career and college readiness examinations to secondary students. This includes an in-school PSAT day for Grade 10 students during the fall semester and an in-school SAT Day for Grade 11 students during the spring semester.

Full Message /  Spanish

September 12, 2023, Community Update: Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget - Understanding the Budget Process and How You Can Get Involved

The Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget process is officially underway and we are pleased to share information about this important process and how you can get involved and share your thoughts on how Baltimore County Public Schools can Fast Forward to meet the needs of all students and staff! BCPS is committed to ensuring all members of Team BCPS understand and have an opportunity to provide input on the annual operating budget process.

Full Message / Spanish

August 31, 2023, Community Update: Transition Report

Dear Team BCPS,

I hope you are having a great first week of the 2023-2024 school year! As I have visited schools this week, I have seen high levels of engagement and energy, rigorous instruction, and relationship building. Our transportation staff have transported more than 80,000 students to and from school with minimal delays and disruptions, all students have had access to nutritious meals free of charge, and our buildings and grounds were fully prepped and ready for the return of students and staff. It is so good to have our students and staff back and we are excited for what we know will be an outstanding school year for our community.

Full Message / Spanish

August 31, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Athletic Events

Baltimore County Public Schools is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all staff, students and spectators participating in athletic events. Athletic programs positively impact the community, and it is our expectation that student athlete and spectator behaviors reflect our core values of teamwork and sportsmanship. Attendance at athletic events is a privilege.

Full Message / Spanish

August 23, 2023 Staff and Community Update: Highlights from the Superintendent's Back-to-School Conference

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Dr. Myriam Rogers (Yarbrough) held a media availability to discuss the school system’s readiness for the opening of schools.

Full Message / Spanish

August 22, 2023 Staff and Community Update: New State MCAP Data Highlights Small Student Performance Gains

New State MCAP Data Highlights Small Student Performance Gains

Dear Team BCPS:

Today, Tuesday, August 22, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) released final data from the 2023 administration of the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) in English Language Arts (ELA), mathematics, and science.

Full Message / Spanish

August 21, 2023 Staff Update: Welcome Back, Staff!

Dear Colleagues:

Welcome back! I hope you had a great summer break and had time to rest, reflect and recharge. It’s hard to believe that in just one week, our buildings and classrooms will be filled with the excited chatter of students.

Full Message

August 16, 2023, Community Update: Information on Student Expectations, Rights and Responsibilities and Transportation Procedures and Handbook

Our Commitment: Safe and Supportive Learning Environments 
Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. The resource below outlines student expectations, rights and responsibilities for the 2023-2024 school year. BCPS families are asked to review resources with children prior to the start of school. Students will also review the documents in class with school staff. 

Full Message / Spanish

August 1, 2023, Community Update: Gearing Up for the 2023-2024 School Year

August 2023

Dear Team BCPS Families:

As the summer break winds down, here are some important dates you need to know:

• Thursday, August 24, 2023 – Early Entry Day for Grades 6 and 9

Students will tour their new schools and meet teachers and administrators. If your child is entering Grade 6 or 9, expect to receive more information soon from your child's school. 

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July 28, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Join us at BCPSfest on August 19!

BCPSfest 2023 Saturday, August 19, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, 938 York Rd., 21204 Please save the date for the biggest and best back-to-school festival in Baltimore County. This systemwide event is free and will feature family-friendly, fun learning activities, a storytime tent, student entertainers, face-painting, school mascots, and community resources. Please join us to celebrate the start of the new school year and the exciting learning opportunities BCPS offers. Guess who'll be there?.

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July 3, 2023, Staff and Community Update: Welcome Message from Superintendent Myriam Yarbrough

Greetings, Team BCPS,

I hope you are having a safe and relaxing summer! Today is my official first business day as superintendent, and I am truly grateful and humbled at the opportunity to serve and partner with students, staff and families and build upon our shared vision that BCPS can and will be among the highest performing school systems in the nation. From the start of my educational career at Woodlawn High School nearly 27 years ago to my recent role as the BCPS deputy superintendent, it has been my mission to listen and to learn from our students, staff, and stakeholders, and to lead and empower teams to remove barriers to student success.

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