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Vol. 9, No. 6: November 2006
You CAN Save 5%!

reportcardThe award-winning FCPS "Save 5%" energy campaign remains in full swing a second year. To help offset increased energy costs:

  • Turn off lights you don't need
  • Turn off computers, monitors and printers not in use
  • Limit use of space heaters and refrigerators
  • Keep a sweater handy
  • Report needed repairs for "energy hogs"

For more: FCPS Energy Coordinator Alem.Zewoldai@fcps.org

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First-Class Staff: Thanks to you public education works in Frederick County

shariThe Maryland Counselors Association recently named Crestwood Middle School counselor Debra Boyce Counselor of the Year. Find out more about Debra:http://www.fcps.org/content/release.cfm?id=454

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Ask the Superintendent

lindaThis section features questions to and answers from Superintendent Dr. Linda Burgee. Please send your questions for future issues to dian.nelson@fcps.org.

Q: How is FCPS responding to concerns about student safety following the arrest of a high school student on sexual assault charges?

A: The school immediately contacted law enforcement and took disciplinary measures, including removal from school. So as not to obstruct the Sheriff's Office investigation, the school delayed communication with parents and students until the arrest was made. The school then sent home three letters outlining security measures, addressing sexual harassment/violence issues and offering extra counseling hours. The principal also spoke with all parents who called and offered support to the victims and their families.

Q: What additional steps is FCPS taking to address sexual violence issues?

A: The school has convened a special task force of staff, parents and community experts. I have charged them with creating a model for systemwide use to enhance our bullying, discrimination and harassment curriculum. The group plans a brochure and video on awareness, prevention, reporting and intervention for use in the school . All schools will soon receive a sexual harassment training DVD that is mandatory viewing for all staff. It is extremely disturbing to learn of sexual assault taking place in one of our schools, and we are taking the matter very seriously. I call upon all staff - along with families and the entire community- to stop harassment or violence of any kind in our schools. We must not tolerate it.

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** ACCOLADES **

starsDistinguished Tuscarora ES Principal Steve Lockard is this year's Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leader: http://www.fcps.org/content/release.cfm?id=461

525,000 Pounds That's how much food this year's Harvest for the Hungry "Kids Helping Kids" statewide food drive hoped to collect. Participating: Centerville ES, Crestwood MS, Gov. TJ MS, Monocacy ES, New Market ES, Rock Creek, Sabillasville ES, Thurmont MS, Valley ES, Walkersville MS, West Frederick MS, Whittier ES and Windsor Knolls MS. http://www.fcps.org/content/release.cfm?id=457

Top Brass Maj. General Eric Schoomaker and U.S. Army Garrison Commander Col. Mary Deutsch were among 20 scientists from Ft. Detrick substituting in high schools Nov. 3 so science teachers could attend a national conference. Urbana HS AP Dale Peters and Human Resources Personnel Officer Marsha Wise coordinated the effort.

Clean As a Whistle A school custodian asked Inside FCPS to recognize custodial services specialists Darrell Foreman and Cecelia "Pete" Smith. Darrell and Pete provide first-class technical support to all FCPS facilities, conduct training and inspections, provide emergency response assistance and much more. Says their supervisor, "These two give their hearts and souls to custodial services 110% every day!"

Ag in the Classroom "You wouldn't believe how enjoyable this 3-credit workshop was and how crowded the trunks of our cars were at the end of the week from all the free teaching material," says Glade ES teacher Jason Offutt, guest speaker at the 17th annual Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation sponsor dinner.

Talented The Weinberg Center has selected bus driver Steve Burdette as "Artist of the Month."

Voice for Safety Linganore HS chemistry teacher Jane Brandt is one of 19 Marylanders who will serve on the Governor's new Task Force on School Safety.

Expertise Presenting at the recent Maryland Educational Media Conference: Thurmont MS media specialist Nancy Crawford and GTJ HS library media specialist Susan Herdman, literary specialist Carolyn Mehl and media assistant Wilma Polce.

Critical Acclaim Linganore HS instrumental music teacher Kevin Lloyd completed his sixth concert tour of Europe with Grammy-nominated pianist James Miltenberger and his jazz quintet.

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News to Use

foodHunger 101 For a fascinating lesson for kids (and adults) visit www.mdfoodbank.org, and check out the interactive simulation called "Hunger 101," a crash course on living with hunger in Maryland.

Violence in Media Get tips for helping kids put it all in perspective: www.media-awareness.ca has "Privacy Playground: The First Adventure of the Three Little CyberPigs" for ages 8-10 plus teacher guides and more.

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bYou CAN Save 5%!

bFirst-Class Staff: Thanks to you public education works in Frederick County

bAsk the Superintendent

b** ACCOLADES **

bNews to Use

 

November 22 & December 14: Teacher Work Session: 2-Hour Early Dismissal for Students

November 23-24: Thanksgiving Break

December 22-January 1
: Winter Break

Former acting principal Amy Schwiegerath is now principal at Lewistown ES.

Michele Varriale is the new school psychologist for Linganore HS, Oakdale MS and Urbana MS.


Q: Can you name the recently elected BOE members?

A: Elected to 4-year terms starting in December were incumbents Daryl Boffman, Bonnie Borsa, Michael Schaden and Jean Smith.

Q: What is the replacement process for resigning BOE member Barbara Craig?

A: The Board of County Commissioners plans to select Ms. Craig's replacement before she leaves office Nov. 30.

 

Program Guide:
www.fcps.org/cable18.htm


Coming soon to your computer!


Bulletin Board items: Dian.Nelson@fcps.org.


Inside FCPS is produced by the FCPS Communication Services Division. Your news, ideas and suggestions are welcome. Please fax 301-696-6958. Call 301-696-6900. Email Dian.Nelson@fcps.org.
Or courier to:
Communications Office
115 E. Church Street.
 

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