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Friday, May 14, 2021, Edition 23
A Message from Dr. Terry Alban
When we welcomed students back into buildings as part of our hybrid learning model, I shared that if we kept carefully moving forward we would come closer to the light at the end of this pandemic tunnel.
Step by step, while working together, that is happening.
This week, we started welcoming elementary students back for four days of in-person instruction. Next week, we will begin celebrating the FCPS Class of 2021 with in-person graduation ceremonies for special programs. We are pleased to share that we can increase the number of guests per graduate from two to four. Our schools will share more details on that great news soon.
Additionally, we are planning for students returning in person five days per week for the start of the 2021-22 school year in August with a virtual option for families who chose it.
While we have been making steady progress, the community has as well. COVID cases are down, both locally and statewide, so much so that Governor Larry Hogan loosened restrictions on outdoor gatherings.
No question, this is wonderful news.
The big question: What will this mean for our schools?
Well, for now, we continue to follow the sound guidance provided by our medical experts in the Maryland Department of Health and the Frederick County Health Department; therefore, masks remain mandatory for students and staff indoors and outdoors. There are some exceptions, including when high school student athletes are actively competing outdoors in practices and competitions.
I acknowledge health guidance is changing, and it is clear more pivoting and adjusting is ahead. The Maryland Department of Health has promised to provide updates to school systems soon. We will keep the community apprised of changes to our protocols based on any updated guidance we receive from the medical experts in order to keep our students safe.
As always, I appreciate your patience and understanding as we adjust based on the new information we receive. It is exciting to continue to see the progress our community and state are making!
Photo of the week
FCPS Career & Tech Center students are making progress on their house project!
In The News
In Case You Missed It:
Reminders
Tuesday, May 18: 2-Hour early dismissal for students: secondary only, teacher work-session
Wednesday, May 19: 2-hour early dismissal for students: elementary and Rock Creek only, teacher work-session
Thursday, May 20: FCPS Virtual Special Education Celebration!
Monday, May 31: Schools and Offices closed for Memorial Day
Hybrid 101
Personal safety:
Wear a Face Covering:
Video: The COVID Cover Up FCPS Face Covering Guidance in School Buildings
Safe schools: Video: Safe Schools: Cleaning and Disinfecting Video: Safe Schools: Ventilation and More
Hybrid Model:
Video: Concurrent Teaching Model
Videos:
Coronavirus data tracking: FCPS debuts health metrics dashboard
Maryland Department of Health Coronavirus Dashboard - Schools Data MD COVID Alert Service
Mental health resources FCPS Mental Health Matters
Highlights
Off the Cuff Blog: Dr. Alban on The Role of a Teacher
FCPS In A Minute: Click here for the video!
Tweet of the Week: Rachel Sessions, Secondary School Counselor of the Year!
FCPS All-Stars: Photos & info!