The last two years for our community and our country have been tumultuous for most everyone. The circumstances have served as an incubator for uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. Recent events in Frederick County Public Schools have further contributed to these unsettled feelings. While I am unable to forecast the future, I can communicate my leadership priorities as interim superintendent for the next five months. First and foremost, I aspire to act as a servant leader for FCPS, which means:
The word aspire is key because I have not yet achieved the likeness of a true servant leader, but it is a daily pursuit in both my professional and personal life.
The second priority that I will pursue as the interim leader of our school system is to perpetuate trust, transparency, and truth.
During this pandemic, our community and school system have experienced polarizing viewpoints and perspectives on a number of key issues. It is my goal to build trust with our students, families, and employees, ensure transparency in our decisions, and communicate the truth, even when the truth is difficult.
The cornerstones of my leadership values are humility, gratitude, trust, and empathy. I will not be perfect, but I am 100 percent committed to acting in the best interest of our students in every decision I make.
I am hopeful we can unite and join hands in strengthening our community each day for the betterment of all of our children.
Last week, I sat down with Sam Starrs, the FCPS Student Member of the Board, and shared more information about my priorities. I hope you take the time to watch our video.
Enjoy your weekend, Dr. Mike Markoe Interim Superintendent
Friday, February 18 Mid-Terms: Schools close 2-hour early
Monday, February 21
Presidents Day: Schools and Offices Closed
Ballenger Creek Elementary teacher Tresa Kallarackal and her fourth grade students celebrate the 100th day of school. On this day, her class had 100 percent attendance.
Super Rob in the Super Bowl
Linganore High graduate Rob Havenstein is playing in the Super Bowl for the second time with the Los Angeles Rams. Led by his former coach, Rick Conner, FCPS staff wanted to take a moment to wish him the best of luck via this video.
Essential Employees
We are so fortunate to have dedicated staff doing all they can to support students every day. We have been traveling throughout the county to showcase their invaluable roles.
Episode 1: Elementary lead custodians featuring Green Valley Elementary's Kathy Osborne
Episode 2: FCPS predictive maintenance technician Elvis Correa is featured in our latest edition. He says "he enjoys everything in my job."
February is Black/African American History Month
FCPS is running an engaging promotional campaign. All the details are available online.
FCPS co-presenting discussion with Guy Stephens
Guy Stephens, an advocate for raising awareness and providing alternatives to seclusion and restraint, will be taking part in an informative discussion at The Arc of Frederick County on March 2 from 6-7:30 p.m.
Board of Education announces employee incentive retention
The Board of Education listened to dedicated Frederick County Public Schools employees, heard repeatedly just how challenging this year has been and is thrilled to announce a $1,300 employee retention incentive for eligible employees.
FCPS seeks nominations for the Tressler Award
Each year, this honor goes to an outstanding educator in FCPS. Be sure to nominate a teacher who has played a significant role supporting students.
Students vote for new Student Member of the Board
Congratulations to Gov. Thomas Johnson High's Lucas Tessarollo for being elected the 2022-23 Student Member of the Board of Education of Frederick County.
Science and Engineering Fair Registration is Underway
We have more information about how students can sign up online.
FCPS In a Minute
This week we highlight activities for Black/African American History Month, celebrate FCPS school counseling staff members and look back at the successful All-County music festivals! Please enjoy the video
We are committed to providing timely information on our FCPS COVID-19 response.
Our FCPS Health Hub features our most recent response. Our FCPS Health Metrics Dashboard is updated daily.
Updated Data
Student attendance rates
Week of Jan. 24: 92.1 percent
Week of Jan. 31: 92.7 percent
Percentage of staff absent
Week of Jan. 24: 3.5 percent
Week of Jan. 31: 2.5 percent
Percentage of students and staff reporting a COVID-19 positive case Week of Jan. 24: 0.6 percent
Week of Jan. 31: 0.4 percent