SPECIAL BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING – THURSDAY, MAY 22

The Board of Education of Carroll County will hold a special Board meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. in Room 007 of the Board of Education offices, located at 125 North Court Street, Westminster. The purpose of the meeting is the adoption of the FY 09 Operating Budget. There will be no citizen participation at this meeting. The public is encouraged to attend.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster, Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOLD 50th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Members of the community are invited to help West Middle School celebrate its 50th anniversary on Saturday, May 17, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. This will be a great opportunity for current students and former alumni to come together and reflect on 50 years of education at West Middle and to look forward to the years ahead.

There will be refreshments featuring food from the 1950's, as well as entertainment, sock hop dancing, interviews and videos, contests, and an antique car show. This is a wonderful time for anyone who ever attended West Middle to revisit the school.

STUDENTS TO INTERVIEW COLORED SCHOOLHOUSE ALUMNI

Students from Sykesville Middle School and Century High School will be interviewing alumni at the Historic Sykesville Colored Schoolhouse on Wednesday, May 14, 2008, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is part of a student learning project entitled “Tell Us Your Story … We're Listening.” Students are documenting the stories of those who attended the schoolhouse.

The schoolhouse is located in the Sykesville Historic District at 518 Schoolhouse Road . For additional information, contact Celeste Saxton, Supervisor of Social Studies for Carroll County Public Schools, at 410-751-3102 or cdsaxto@k12.carr.org

SYKESVILLE STUDENT WINS READING CONTEST

Zachary Molin, a sixth grade student in Mrs. Linda Snead's RLA class at Sykesville Middle School , was one of three statewide winners of the Radical Readers - Read Across America Contest. 

Students were required to read ten books and write three essay answers about each book. They were asked what they liked or disliked most about the book, whether they would recommend the book to a friend and why or why not, and how they would describe their favorite character or chapter. There were almost 200 entries received. Zach's prize was a laptop computer.  The contest was sponsored by the Maryland State Teachers Association and Staples, Inc.

On Monday, April 21, Sykesville Middle School principal Tom Eckenrode, Mrs. Snead, and Zach's entire class were invited to attend the award presentation at the Banneker-Douglass Museum in Annapolis . Zach's mother, Lorraine Molin, and a parent volunteer, Janet Debinski, also were able to attend. Along with the other two state winners and their classes, the group was able to tour the museum, enjoy a pizza lunch, and videotape a skit on "What's So Radical About Reading?" The winners received their laptops, and their classmates also were given some gifts to enjoy.

SANDYMOUNT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

Sandymount Elementary School is hosting its annual Memorial Day Program on Friday, May 23, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. in the school auditorium. This year's theme, Keep the Memory in Memorial Day, will focus upon the significance of Memorial Day and the contributions of our veterans.  Any veterans or current military personnel are invited to attend this program.  A light breakfast will be served in the school media center to honor military personnel and veterans, beginning at 8:30 . 

Please contact Barbara Guthrie, committee co-chairperson, at (410) 848-4562 if you would like further information or would like to attend this special event.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING – WEDNESDAY, MAY 14

The Board of Education of Carroll County will hold its regular monthly Board meeting on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. in Room 007 of the Board of Education offices, located at 125 North Court Street, Westminster . There will be time for citizen participation at this meeting. The public is encouraged to attend.

The agenda and back-up materials for the Board meeting will be available for review on BoardDocs, which may be accessed by visiting the school system's website at www.carrollk12.org and clicking on CCPS Online Meeting Agenda on the home page. The meeting will be broadcast live on Channel 21, with rebroadcasts on Thursday, May 15, at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, May 17, at 9:00 a.m.; Sunday, May 18, at 8:00 p.m.; and Thursday, May 22, at 8:00 p.m.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster , Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

STEPHENS NAMED CARROLL COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Mary Catherine Stephens, a fifth grade math, science and social studies teacher at Winfield Elementary School, was named Carroll County 2008 Teacher of the Year during the Board of Education's employee recognition ceremony on Wednesday, April 30, 2008.

Stephens earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Master's Degree of Science in Administration and Supervision at the Johns Hopkins University . She has been with Carroll County Public Schools for six years and has a total of 18 years of teaching experience. Prior to coming to Carroll County , Stephens operated her own preschool and was an elementary school assistant principal and teacher in Howard County .

Stephens' first students were her seven younger brothers and sisters. “Í always had a chalkboard, writing materials, and a makeshift classroom,” Stephens said. “At an early age, I set the goal of pursuing a career in education so that I could impact other children by providing the support and encouragement they need to learn and grow.” She was also inspired by her own success in school and by recognizing that schools have the power to provide rich learning experiences for all children, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic background.

Stephens designed and presented two workshops entitled “Making Multiple Math Groups Work” for Carroll County 's inservice day in February. She provided participants with binders full of demonstration lessons, stations, and activities, and some of the new teachers visited her classroom to observe these methods in action and to learn more about how they can implement the strategies in their own classrooms.

Stephens says that her greatest accomplishment in education is touching the lives of children from all backgrounds and ability ranges. “The smiles, the hugs, and these simple words, ‘I love math' are my rewards and accomplishments,” Stephens said. “The true joy of teaching is inspiring the uninspired, developing self-confidence in the timid, building self-esteem in those who have little or none, and seeing every child reach his or her potential.”

According to Donn Hicks, Supervisor of Elementary Mathematics, “Mrs. Stephens does what only the very best teachers can do. She accelerates the learning of her strongest students while simultaneously seeking effective approaches to assist students who need help. Mrs. Stephens is a dedicated professional who truly is an outstanding teacher!”

The Carroll County Teacher of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual who represents Carroll County teachers in the Maryland Teacher of the Year Program, and possibly the National Teacher of the Year Program. Working in collaboration with the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, this year's finalists for Teacher of the Year were selected by the Chamber of Commerce as winners of the Chamber's Outstanding Teacher Awards.

CARROLL COUNTY STUDENTS RECEIVE AWARDS AT STATE FFA CONVENTION

The 80th Annual FFA State Convention was held April 23, 24 and 25, 2008, at the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies. Over 30 FFA Chapters and 300 FFA students participated in the event. The following students from Carroll County received awards or degrees at this event.

Francis Scott Key FFA Chapter
Sarah Friedel – State FFA Degree recipient
Sandy Gesell – State FFA Degree recipient
Danielle Moore – State FFA Degree recipient, Regional Star Ag Production
Kevin Ridinger – State FFA Degree recipient
Jessica Gibson – 10 th individual, Job Interview Career Development Event

Liberty FFA Chapter
Emily Beall, Bryan Busch, and Lindsay Maus received their State FFA Degrees.
Emily Tanner – 1 st place individual, FFA Knowledge Career Development Event
Bryan Busch – 2 nd place individual, FFA Knowledge Career Development Event
Megan Marshall – 3 rd place individual, FFA Knowledge Career Development Event
Erin Selby – 4 th place individual, FFA Knowledge Career Development Event
Liberty High FFA – 1 st place, FFA Knowledge Team

North Carroll FFA Chapter
Anna Elder – 7 th place, Junior Prepared Speaking
Sierra Doran – 9 th place, Junior Prepared Speaking
Megan Resch – 10 th place, Junior Prepared Speaking
Kyle Lemmon – 12 th place, Senior Prepared Speaking
Sophie Thomas – 8 th place, Senior Extemporaneous Speaking, 17 th FFA Knowledge Contest
Meredith Myers – 3 rd place, Job Interview Contest, 22 nd FFA Knowledge Contest
Tom Mazzone – 11 th place, Agricultural Sales Contest
Megan Miller and Sophie Thomas – 1 st place, Zoology Agricultural Science Fair
State Degree Recipients from NCHS – Kyle Lemmon, Matt Leister, Megan Miller, Katie Doran

South Carroll FFA Chapter
Samantha Garst – 7 th place, individual Agriculture Sales
Sarah Double – 15 th place, individual Agricultural Sales

Winters Mill FFA Chapter
Sarah Rawlings received her State FFA Degree.
Shelby Stevens- 1st place, Junior Extemporaneous Speaking
Jamie Plunkert - 8 th place, individual FFA Knowledge contest
Sarah Rawlings – 15 th place, individual FFA Knowledge contest
Shelby Stevens - 18 th place, individual FFA Knowledge contest
Winters Mill FFA – 3 rd place, FFA Knowledge team

CARROLL STUDENTS NAMED CARSON SCHOLARS

Six students from Carroll County Public Schools were honored at the 2008 Carson Scholars Fund 12th Annual Awards Banquet on Sunday, April 27, 2008. The following students received awards:

Brian Edwards - Grade 5 - Runnymede Elementary School
Alex Fiore* - Grade 8 - West Middle School
McKenzie Horn - Grade 4 - Robert Moton Elementary School
Anna Parsons* - Grade 7 - West Middle School
Elizabeth Welliver* - Grade 9 - Winters Mill High School
Lauren Williams* - Grade 8 -Oklahoma Road Middle School.

(* denotes repeat winners)

The Carson Scholars Fund is a non-profit charity that was founded in 1994 by Johns Hopkins pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin Carson and his wife, Candy. The Fund recognizes and rewards students in grades 4-11 who strive for academic achievement and also display strong humanitarian qualities. Recipients are awarded with $1,000 college scholarships. Since its inception the Carson Scholars Fund has awarded over 3,400 college scholarships and is active in twenty-six states and the District of Columbia.

BOARD OF EDUCATION TO RECOGNIZE EMPLOYEES AT CEREMONY
Carroll County Teacher of the Year to Be Announced

The Board of Education of Carroll County will hold an employee recognition ceremony on Wednesday, April 30 2008, at 7:00 p.m. The ceremony will be held in Room 007 of the Board of Education offices, located at 125 North Court Street in Westminster .

During the ceremony, the Board will recognize approximately seventy-five employees for outstanding accomplishments. These accomplishments include awards in the employee's area or field, recognition by a professional organization, and authorship of articles published in a state or national journal. Employees also receive recognition for giving presentations at state or national conferences and workshops and for service on state and national committees.

A highlight of the evening will be the announcement of the 2008 Carroll County Teacher of the Year. The teachers who received the Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Teacher Awards are the group from which the Carroll County Teacher of the Year is chosen. The Carroll County Teacher of the Year will be Carroll County 's representative for the Maryland Teacher of the Year Program.

“NOW HEAR THIS!!!” AT SANDYMOUNT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Students to Learn How to Prevent Hearing Loss

Fifth graders at Sandymount Elementary School plan to stay "tuned in" as they learn about protecting their hearing from noise damage. On Thursday, May 8, 2008, Cathy Alles, audiologist at the Carroll County Health Department, will discuss with fifth grade students how our ears hear, what an audiologist does, and what we can do to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

The program has been planned in collaboration with Sandymount's vocal music teacher, Joann Benson, and speech-language pathologist, Barbara Davidson, and is in recognition of May as Better Hearing and Speech Month.

For more information, please contact Sandymount at 410-751-3215 or Mrs. Benson at jlbenso@k12.carr.org . 

CARROLL COUNTY SPECIAL EDUCATION CITIZEN'S ADVISORY COUNCIL

The Carroll County Public School System's Special Education Citizen's Advisory Council will hold its next quarterly meeting on Thursday, May 8, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon. The meeting will be held at the Carroll County Agricultural Center and Arena, rooms A & B, located at 706 Agriculture Center, in Westminster . If you need additional information, contact Ms. Jane Conner, Director of Special Education, at 410-751-3033.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster , Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

NORTH CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL TO HOLD MOCK DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT

A mock drunk driving accident will take place at North Carroll High School on Wednesday, April 30, 2008. The Hampstead Fire and Police Departments and a towing company will participate in the demonstration. Representatives from the Hampstead Business Association also will be in attendance.

The schedule for the activity is as follows:

8:15 a.m. Assembly

8:30 a.m. Mock collision and arrest

9:00 a.m. Students will go into groups and engage in discussion.

SCHOOL SYSTEM SEEKS INPUT ON FACILITIES MASTER PLAN

A public meeting regarding the proposed 2008-2017 Educational Facilities Master Plan will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Cranberry Station Elementary School, located at 505 North Center Street, Westminster . The Superintendent's staff will present the report and solicit public comment at this meeting.

The proposed plan is posted on the CCPS website at www.carrollk12.org . Comments and suggestions may also be submitted to feedback@k12.carr.org . The Facilities Master Plan will be presented to the Board of Education for approval at its meeting on Wednesday June 11, at 5:00 p.m. at the Board offices.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster, Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

“BOUNDLESS BASH” TO RAISE MONEY FOR CARROLL SPRINGS PLAYGROUND

Hailey's Wish – A Foundation for Inclusive Play will hold a “Boundless Bash” at the Carroll County Farm Museum on Saturday, May 10, 2008, from 12 noon to 5:00 p.m. The “Bash” is a fundraising event to support the purchase and construction of an inclusive playground at Carroll Springs School.

The day will include live music, a magic show, a puppet show, story time, face painting, games, karaoke, a petting zoo, Glamour Girls dress up, vendors, and food. There will be six different inflatable activities including a slide and an obstacle course. Admission is $5 with an additional fee for unlimited play on the inflatables.

Hailey's Wish is a non-profit foundation that has been established through the Carroll County Community Foundation. The purpose of the foundation is to develop inclusive playgrounds throughout Carroll County . The playground at Carroll Springs School is the first initiative for Hailey's Wish.

For more information, please call Carroll Springs School at 410-751-3620.

HUMANE SOCIETY DONATES BOOKS TO SCHOOLS

The Humane Society of Carroll County recently purchased and donated books to the Carroll County Public School libraries. Although the organization has donated books to the Carroll County Public Libraries in the past, this is a new endeavor with the public school system. The book donations contribute to fulfilling the Humane Society's mission by educating our young people and promoting responsible pet ownership.

The elementary schools received copies of Complete Dog Book for Kids, an official publication of the American Kennel Club. The middle and high schools received the Complete Dog Book , an official American Kennel Club publication; The Perfect Match: A Dog Buyer's Guide , published by Howell Book House; and One at a Time , a book about homeless animals and shelters.

In addition to donating books, a representative from the Humane Society will be visiting Elmer Wolfe Elementary School to present a series of educational programs for students participating in the school's Community Learning Center during April and May. The topics to be discussed include pet safety tips, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of pet training.

The officers and board members of the Humane Society feel that developing responsible pet ownership begins with our youth.

SCHOOL SYSTEM ESTABLISHES PARTNERSHIP WITH SCOUTING ORGANIZATIONS

Carroll County Public Schools has established a formal partnership with the Baltimore Area Council Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of Central Maryland. Under the partnership agreement, the scouting organizations will provide several programs professionally developed for school-age students and their families.

Programs offered by the Boy Scouts of America will focus on topics such as internet and personal safety, drug abuse prevention awareness, and a student service program that addresses the issues of hunger, homelessness, and poor health. In addition, the “Learning for Life” program will support schools and community-based organizations in their efforts to prepare youth to successfully handle the complexities of contemporary society and to enhance their self-confidence, motivation, and self-esteem.

The Girl Scouts of Central Maryland will provide a program incorporating peer counseling, mentoring, team building, and communication to give students prevention tools for life. They also will sponsor “Families for Prevention”, a self-instructional video series for parents which includes a proven, step-by-step guide for raising responsible children and building families.

The school system will provide the Scouts with access to distribute materials to inform families about the offerings of their organizations, provide space for meetings in school system facilities when available, offer to provide a booth at back to school nights, and make information available to families concerning open houses.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR CARROLLTOWNE STUDENTS

A construction project to install walls in the pods at Carrolltowne Elementary School will begin this summer. Teachers in half of the school will need to pack up their classrooms and move to another location in order for the project to begin as soon as possible. To provide time for teachers to pack and complete report cards and other end-of-year activities, the students of Carrolltowne Elementary School will not have school on Monday, June 9, and Tuesday, June 10, 2008. The last day of school for Carrolltowne students will be Friday, June 6, 2008. It will be a full school day.

NELSON TO REPRESENT CARROLL COUNTY AT PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AWARDS

Kelli Nelson, a parent from Carroll County, will represent the county at the first Comcast Parent Involvement Matters Awards on Thursday, April 17, 2008, at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis at 6:00 p.m.

The Comcast Parent Involvement Matters Awards is the first state-wide award program of its kind in the nation. A collaboration between the Maryland State Department of Education and Comcast, the award program recognizes parents, guardians and parent groups for their exceptional work in support of Maryland public education. Parents from across the state were nominated for demonstrating significant, positive impact on public education in their communities.

Six semi-finalists and one overall state winner will be named during the ceremony. The semi-finalists and state winner will be selected from the 23 local winners. The state winner will be awarded a cash prize of $1,000, and the five remaining semi-finalists will receive $250 each to further their efforts to positively impact their public school systems.

Nelson is a tireless advocate for children with disabilities. She has designed workshops for parents, school personnel, and other professionals to help them better serve the needs of children with disabilities. She has also served on or chaired numerous county and state councils and committees and has testified before the legislature on matters concerning students with disabilities. A leading advocate for the Infants and Toddlers Program, Nelson has developed positive relationships with state and local policymakers who make decisions about funding.

NORTHWEST STUDENTS TO ATTEND SPACE ACADEMY

Thirty-five eighth grade students from Northwest Middle School will be attending the Space Academy at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab on Wednesday, April 22, 2008, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Interested students were asked to apply by completing three short essay questions about why they were interested in going to the Space Academy and how they would use the experience in the future. Prior to the trip, students are taking part in a series of nine lessons provided by the Applied Physics Lab. The lessons focus on the mission, its science theme, and space-related careers through classroom activities and videos developed by The Science Channel and the Applied Physics Lab.

The Space Academy series was launched in 2000 by The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Comcast Cable, and The Discovery Channel. It takes middle school students behind the scenes of actual space missions and introduces them to engineers and scientists working on NASA projects. Space Academy is a hands-on, minds-on experience designed to excite both students and teachers.

The Academy is held twice a year on the Applied Physics Lab campus in Laurel , Maryland . The daylong events include a briefing on a specific mission or program APL manages for NASA, a student “press conference” with project team members, lunchtime discussions with scientists and engineers, tours through “Exploration Stations” like a spacecraft mission control center and satellite communications facility, science demonstrations, and a look at real spacecraft being built at the Lab.

After the field trip, there will be follow-up activities during school hours. The students attending the Academy will share the experience with other eighth graders.

BUENGER RECEIVES NATIONAL MIDDLE SCHOOL PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Debra Buenger, physical education teacher at Northwest Middle School, has been named the National Association for Sport and Physical Education's (NASPE) National Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year.  The award was presented at the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) national convention in Fort Worth , Texas , during the Hall of Fame Banquet.

This award is presented each year to a teacher who serves as a positive role model and epitomizes personal health and fitness, enjoyment of activity, sportsmanship, and sensitivity to the needs of students. Recipients also must conduct a quality physical education program, use various teaching methods and plan innovative learning experiences to meet the needs of all students, participate in professional development activities, and provide service to the profession through leadership, presentations, and/or writing.

As part of a three-tier process, Buenger first was selected as the Secondary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Maryland Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD). She then went on to receive the Eastern District Teacher of the Year Award, which qualified her for consideration for the national award.

“We are very fortunate in Carroll County to have dedicated health and physical education teachers, comprehensive programs for students, and the support of administrators,” according to Linda Kephart, Supervisor of Health and Elementary Physical Education for Carroll County Public Schools. “ What an honor to have one of our teachers recognized at the national level.”

SWEARING-IN CEREMONY FOR NEW BOARD MEMBER

The Board of Education of Carroll County will hold a swearing-in ceremony for Virginia R. Harrison on Friday, April 18, 2008, at 4:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held in Room 007 of the Board offices, located at 125 North Court Street in Westminster .

Clerk of the Circuit Court Dan Sealing will issue the Oath to Mrs. Harrison, who was selected by Governor Martin O'Malley to complete the term of Jeffrey Morse, who recently resigned from the Board. Mrs. Harrison's term on the Board will expire in December 2008.

Light refreshments will be served following the ceremony.

DATES FOR END OF SCHOOL YEAR FOR STUDENTS

Six emergency closing days were scheduled in the 2007-2008 school calendar. Three days were used to close schools for students and staff for inclement weather. Three emergency closing days remain unused. Therefore, the following revisions will take place if no additional emergency closing days are needed:

Friday, June 6, 2008
Last Day for Pre-Kindergarten Students

Monday, June 9, 2008
Two hour and forty-five minute system-wide early dismissal for students; professional time for teachers

Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Last day for students; two hour and forty-five minute system-wide early dismissal for students;
professional time for teachers; fourth marking period ends.

WINTERS MILL FFA TO HOLD FOOD FOR AMERICA EVENT

The Winters Mill High School FFA will hold its fifth annual Food for America event on Monday, April 14, 2008. Members of the FFA will bring animals to school and set up displays and activities for each animal.

Kindergarten students from Cranberry Station Elementary School will participate in the event. Students will visit stations featuring a calf, chickens, turkeys, pigs, goats, and rabbits. They also will visit a “plant a seed” station and have the opportunity to ride pedal tractors. Activities will take place from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. and noon to 1:30 p.m. Winters Mill FFA president Sarah Rawlings organized the event along with several other active FFA members.

Food for America is an FFA community service program to make elementary students more aware of the world of agriculture and how it affects their daily lives. Students will discover the animals, crops, and machinery that are related to their food production.

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER STUDENTS RECEIVE SKILLS USA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP AWARDS

Carroll County Career and Technology Center seniors performed exceptionally well at the SkillsUSA State Championships held on April 5, 2008.  Eleven seniors represented the school in seven different contests with four seniors winning medals. 

Allison Rill from Winters Mill High School won 1st place/Gold Medal in the Culinary Arts championship.  David Bollinger from Westminster High School earned a Gold Medal for his masonry project.  Career and Technology Center seniors won first and second place in the Diesel Mechanics contest. Jacob Schaeffer from Winters Mill High School earned a Gold Medal and Dan Martin from South Carroll High School earned the Silver Medal. 

The following students from the Carroll County Career and Technology Center participated in the State SkillsUSA Championships:

• Brittany Zaruba and Nicole Faidley - Commercial Baking
• Ashley Hatfield - Cosmetology
• Allison Rill - Culinary Arts
• Jacob Schaeffer, George Bopst, Conner O'Donnough and Dan Martin - Diesel Mechanics
• David Bollinger - Masonry
• Matthew Leister - Residential Wiring
• Amanda Carls - Cake Decorating.

All of the gold medal winners will represent Maryland at the National SkillsUSA championships to be held in Kansas City from June 23-June 27, 2008 for the 44th annual National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC), a showcase of career and technical education students.

CCPS TO HOLD EARLY CHILDHOOD JOB FAIR

Carroll County Public Schools will sponsor an Early Childhood Job Fair on Wednesday, April 16, 2008, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Fair will be held at Parr's Ridge Elementary School, located at 202 Watersville Road in Mt. Airy .

Participants will learn more about Carroll County Public Schools and will have an opportunity to interview for a teaching position for the 2008-2009 school year. Lunch will be provided. Interested candidates may call 410-751-3101 to register for this event and schedule an interview.

CARROLL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS MEDIA FESTIVAL 2008

The Professional Resource Center is proud to announce the first and second place winners in the Carroll County Public Schools 2008 Media Festival.

The Gallery Walk will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2008 from 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. in the Professional Resource Center . Photos will be on display through April 25. The Professional Resource Center is located at the Board of Education offices at 125 North Court Street in Westminster and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Center will be open until 6:00 p.m. on April 9 and 16.

Please click here for a complete list of winning entries.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NAMES OUTSTANDING TEACHERS

The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce recognized 178 teachers at the nineteenth annual Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Teacher Awards event held on Thursday, April 3, 2008, at Westminster High School. The following teachers received Outstanding Teacher Awards:

• Gary R. Fuhrman - Century High School
• Jennifer L. Goffena - East Middle School
• Anne C. Kyker - Friendship Valley Elementary School
• Claudia C. Lewis - Shiloh Middle School
• Katie M. Nefflen - Westminster High School
• Donna S. Reck - North Carroll Middle School
• Janet S. Shearer - Cranberry Station Elementary School
• Mary C. Stephens - Winfield Elementary School.

These awards recognize the excellence of the men and women who teach in the Carroll County Public School System. Any student, parent of a student, teacher, or school administrator can nominate a teacher. The nomination form included questions requiring specific examples of ways the teacher helps students apply what they have learned to real-world situations and how they inspire students to learn and build confidence and self-esteem. Nominations were judged on the degree to which the candidates exhibit qualities of excellence. Teams of judges comprised equally of both retired teachers and members of the business community reviewed the nominations.

The Carroll County Teacher of the Year will be chosen from among the eight teachers receiving the Chamber's Outstanding Teacher Award. That candidate will be Carroll County 's representative for the Maryland Teacher of the Year program. The Carroll County Public Schools Education Foundation will award the Carroll County Teacher of the Year with $1,000 to be used for an educational project or program of his or her choice. This is the second year that the Foundation will honor the outstanding Teacher of the Year with a monetary donation.

ALCOHOL PREVENTION PROGRAM TO INCLUDE CRASH SIMULATIONS
AT SOUTH CARROLL AND LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOLS

The Carroll County Public School System would like to alert the community regarding an alcohol prevention program that will take place at South Carroll High School on April 10-11. A crash simulation will be held on the first day of the program at approximately 1:00 p.m. Activities on the second day will take place from approximately 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. Citizens should be aware that emergency response vehicles will be present at the schools and that this is only an exercise.

The exercise is part of the Every 15 Minutes program. This drinking and driving awareness program targets high school juniors and seniors and illustrates the devastating effects of the poor choice to drink and drive. The activity is being sponsored by Carroll County Public Schools, the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department, in conjunction with Burrier-Queen and Haight Funeral Homes, Carroll County Sheriff's Office, Carroll Hospital Center , Carroll County State 's Attorney's Office, Gamber and Community Fire Company, Maryland State Police, Westminster Police Department, and Winfield Fire Department.

For additional information or if you have any questions, please contact Anna Bible at 410-751-3331 or ambible@k12.carr.org.

ELMER A. WOLFE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND FORESTRY BOARD TO HOLD EARTH DAY CEREMONY
“Maryland Big Tree” Proclamation to Be Presented

The Carroll County Forestry Board and the students of Elmer A. Wolfe Elementary School will hold a Maryland Big Tree Proclamation and Tree Planting Ceremony on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, 2008, at 9:00 a.m. The ceremony will be held on the grounds of the school, which is located at 119 North Main Street in Union Bridge.

The Honorable Donald B. Elliott will present honors to the Family of Mr. John Smith, owners of the 2008 Champion Sycamore, the largest sycamore tree in Maryland. The ceremony will last approximately 30 minutes. In the event of inclement weather, the presentation will be held inside the school building.

MINORITY FAMILY FORUM TO HOST PANEL DISCUSSION WITH SUPERINTENDENT AND CABINET
Topic – Gifted and Talented and Advanced Placement Programs

The Carroll County Minority Family Forum will host a panel discussion with Dr. Charles Ecker, Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools, and members of his cabinet on Tuesday, April 15, 2008. The meeting will take place at the Board of Education offices, located at 125 North Court Street in Westminster.

Parents, students, and concerned citizens are invited to attend. Dinner will be served from 6:00 to 6:15 p.m. The panel discussion and question and answer session will be held from 6:15 to 8:00 p.m. The topic of discussion will be gifted and talented and Advanced Placement programs. Dr. Roni Jolley, AP Project Monitor and College Board Staff Liaison, will be the guest speaker.

An RSVP is required to ensure proper planning for refreshments and seating. Please contact Pat Levroney, Minority Achievement Liaison, 410-386-1680 or ptlevro@k12.carr.org by April 10, 2008. Child care services will be provided.

This event is co-sponsored by the Carroll County Local Management Board, Carroll Community Foundation, the Carroll County Public Schools Education Foundation, and the Carroll County Public Schools Office of Minority Achievement and Intervention Programs.

WEST MIDDLE TO KICK OFF NATIONAL ARBOR WEEK WITH TREE PLANTING

West Middle School will hold a tree planting on Monday, March 31, at 9:00 a.m. to kick off National Arbor Week. A total of approximately 20 trees will be planted by 140 sixth grade students from Team 2.

Westminster Mayor Tom Ferguson will read a proclamation as a large River Birch tree is planted. The tree will be used to anchor a rain garden that will be planted in the near future with funds received from a grant with the Chesapeake Bay Trust Foundation.

STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS TO VISIT JUDY CENTER DURING ANNUAL EVALUATION AND SITE VISIT

The Carroll County Public School System's Judy Center Partnership will be participating in its annual evaluation and site visit by the Maryland State Department of Education on Thursday, March 27, 2008, at Robert Moton Elementary School.

As part of the review and celebration, State Superintendent Nancy Grasmick will be touring early childhood classrooms from 9:00 - 10:15 a.m. and reviewing a presentation on the progress of the Judy Center . Dr. Grasmick's visit to the Judy Center will help to validate the importance of early childhood education and the importance of developmental milestones for young children.

TEACHER PARTNERS WITH EDUCATION FOUNDATION TO PROVIDE DEFIBRILLATORS
FOR ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Steven Krouse, a physical education teacher at Cranberry Station Elementary School , is partnering with the Carroll County Public Schools Education Foundation to provide automated external defibrillators (AED) in elementary and middle schools.

At the present time, AEDs are required only in high schools. Carroll County would be one of the first Maryland metropolitan area school systems to place AEDs in all of its schools. Baltimore County has them in every school, and Anne Arundel is moving in that direction.

As part of this program, entitled Heart Smart Schools , each school would receive an AED to be housed in cabinets mounted to the wall in hallways and easily accessible to locations used by the public. The AEDs are not only for use during the school day, but at any time the building is being used for school or community activities.

The project came about as a result of Mr. Krouse's Administrative Certification coursework with McDaniel College . He was looking for a project that would involve reaching out to the community and involving them more with the school system. He had the idea because he was aware of several students, faculty, and parents with heart conditions. “I think it's important to be able to have the ability and equipment to help them if something goes wrong,” Krouse said. “The AEDs are easy to use and it makes sense to have them in case of an emergency.”

The cost of the project will be approximately $64,000, or $2,000 per school. Donations can be made via a credit card or a check payable to the CCPS Education Foundation. Please indicate in a letter or on the memo section of the check that it is for the Heart Smart Schools Program. For additional information, please contact Steven Krouse at skkrous@k12.carr.org .

CARROLL SPRINGS SCHOOL PARTNERS WITH HAILEY'S WISH TO BUILD PLAYGROUND

Carroll Springs School and Hailey's Wish, a Foundation for Inclusive Play, have partnered to build a brand new accessible and inclusive community playground at Carroll Springs where students with and without disabilities can play together.

The Hailey's Wish Foundation was started by the family of a Carroll Springs student to bring joy to the lives of children with disabilities by building, promoting, maintaining, and enhancing accessible and inclusive environments for children with disabilities. The playground equipment at Carroll Springs will be accessible by ramps rather than steps, and high back swings will be included for those children who need more support in sitting up. Activity boards will be in reach of children in a standing or sitting position. In addition, there will be activities for children of all ages and abilities, including rock climbing walls and toddler play areas.

Hailey's Wish has applied for a grant from “My Hometown Helper,” a nationwide initiative that helps local groups make a difference in their own community. Funds are awarded based on the merit of the project, including its impact on the community. Friends, neighbors, and family can support the organization's efforts by adding supportive comments about the need for the playground at www.myhometownhelper.com/ViewProject.aspx?tell+2&id=35240 . All comments must be posted on or before March 31, 2008. If awarded this grant, Hailey's Wish will be one of up to 12 municipal or civic organizations across the country to receive a “helping hand” from Hamburger Helper. The amount of the grant award may be between $500 and $15,000.

BOARD PRESIDENT AND SUPERINTENDENT TO HOST TOWN MEETING

Board President Cynthia Foley and Superintendent Charles Ecker will be hosting a town meeting on Wednesday, April 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. at Northwest Middle School, located at 99 Kings Drive in Taneytown.

The purpose of the meeting is to create an open dialogue with parents and the community. Members of the community are invited to attend and address their concerns or ask questions regarding education topics and issues.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster , Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS ON DISPLAY

The Carroll County Public School System is inviting the public to review instructional materials being considered for adoption. These materials will be on display through Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at the Resource Center , located in the Board of Education offices at 125 North Court Street in Westminster . The Resource Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and on the second and third Wednesdays of the month until 6:00 p.m. Members of the community are invited to visit and review the materials being proposed. An opportunity will be provided for comment.

A list of the textbooks and materials being considered is posted on the CCPS website at:

http://www.carrollk12.org/whatsnew/pdf/textbooks.pdf .

The Curriculum Council will meet on Thursday, May 15, at which time they will approve or disapprove these instructional materials. Approved materials will then go to the Board of Education of Carroll County for final adoption.

The Board of Education of Carroll County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment or provision of services, programs or activities. Information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act is available from the Director of Facilities, (410) 751-3177. Persons needing auxiliary aids and services for communication should contact the Office of Community and Media Relations at (410) 751-3020, TTY (410) 751-3034, or write to Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster , Maryland 21157 at least one (1) week in advance of the date the special accommodation is needed.

WALKER EARNS TITLE OF CERTIFIED MASTER ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATOR

Craig Walker, Coordinator of Facility Use, Activities and Athletics at Francis Scott Key High School, has successfully completed the process of becoming a Certified Master Athletic Administrator.

This certification program, which is administered by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA), identifies those administrators nationally who demonstrate exemplary knowledge, contributions, and ongoing professional development in the field of interscholastic administration.

Walker completed leadership training courses in the areas of philosophy, organization, principles, strategies, methods, and legal issues, as well as additional course work in management and leadership. The voluntary certification process includes a thorough evaluation of the candidate's educational background, experience, NIAAA leadership courses, and professional contributions. The process culminates with a practical written project.

Walker began his career in Carroll County as a physical education teacher in 1987. He served as Athletic Director of Century High School from 2000 to 2006, and has been the Athletic Director at Francis Scott Key High School since 2006. He has coached football, baseball, girls' basketball, and golf during his years in Carroll County.

CARROLL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES “BY GEORGE! BY IRA! BY GERSHWIN!”
WITH THE ANNAPOLIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA - MARYLAND REGIONAL CONCERT TOUR
Sponsored By Comcast

Carroll County Public Schools announces a symphonic concert at Winters Mill High School on Thursday, April 10, 2008, at 8:00 p.m. Comcast Presents By George! By Ira! By Gershwin! will be performed by the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) under the artistic direction of José-Luis Novo, Music Director, in Westminster as one of four concerts on ASO's first Maryland regional pops concert tour, generously supported by Comcast Cable Television, Inc.

The Carroll County Public School System chose to partner with Comcast and ASO, along with local partners the Carroll County Times and the Carroll County Public Schools Education Foundation, to bring this concert to Carroll County so that students can enjoy the symphony experience and become familiar with the timeless music of two of America's most respected composers. According to Charles Ecker, Superintendent of Schools, “We need to take every opportunity to expose our children to the arts, as they will play a very significant role in their overall education and will provide enrichment and enjoyment throughout their lives.”

The theatrical style pops concert focuses entirely on the lives and music of George and Ira Gershwin, starring the program's creator, Baltimore-based soprano Carolyn Black-Sotir , and her ensemble, American Popular Song Artists . The program also will feature rising young, award-winning pianist Eric Zuber of Bel Air, Maryland , 22, performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue .

Tickets to the performance are now on sale and are $20 for general admission and $30 for VIP tickets which include reserved center section seating and a post-concert artist reception. Tickets for students are available for $12. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Carroll County Arts Council, located at 91 West Main Street in Westminster (cash/check only), by telephone by calling 1-877-ASO-TIXS (276-8497), or online at www.annapolissymphony.org .

”At Comcast, we believe that support of education, experience, and exposure to the arts enhances the quality of life in our local communities,” said Brian A. Lynch, area vice president for Comcast Greater Baltimore. ”To that end, we are delighted to bring the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra to Winters Mill High School in Westminster .”

The Comcast-sponsored tour of By George! By Ira! By Gershwin! represents an important outreach opportunity for the 47-year old professional orchestra that is based at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis . Symphony P resident R. Lee Streby said “In keeping with the vision of the ASO to become more established as one of the cultural treasures of Maryland , we are excited about touring to new parts of the state. We are grateful that Comcast recognizes the artistic excellence of the ASO to help us share our music with new communities across the region.”

Supporting the ASO's and Comcast's commitment and interest in music education for young people, the program features “master classes,” in which musicians from the concert tour visit local schools to provide an in-depth and hands-on musical education session for students. Students will learn from and perform with professional musicians throughout the tour.

Through community partnerships, employee volunteerism and charitable contributions, Comcast invests heavily in building strong, healthy neighborhoods and improving the quality of life where its employees live and work.  Comcast supports a variety of local organizations and programs centered around the arts, history and cultural celebration and appreciation. 

José-Luis Novo, Music Director

Maryland 's capital city orchestra continues its 47th season under the leadership of José-Luis Novo , who was appointed ASO's sixth Music Director in March 2005 following a two-year national search. One of Spain 's most promising young conductors, José-Luis Novo also holds the position of Music Director and Conductor of the Binghamton Philharmonic. Prior to his appointments with the Annapolis and Binghamton orchestras, Mr. Novo held the positions of Assistant Conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Music Director Emeritus Jesús López-Cobos, the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Music Director of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra, the Oxford (Ohio) Chamber Orchestra, and the Miami University Symphony Orchestra, Associate Conductor of the National Repertory Orchestra, Assistant Conductor of the National Youth Orchestra of Spain and of the Yale Symphony Orchestra. Since 1999, he has been a member of the conducting faculty at the Eastern Music Festival in Greensboro , North Carolina .

Carolyn Black-Sotir, soprano

Carolyn Black-Sotir is a versatile artist performing in opera, oratorio, recital, musical theatre, and cabaret. She has sung with some of the country's finest regional orchestras including Annapolis , Lancaster , Columbia , Susquehanna, and Hershey Symphony Orchestras, and the Atlanta Pops Orchestra. Soloist performances include works by Barber, Mozart, Williams, Brahms, Bach and Handel. Programs incorporating music by Mozart and Gershwin have been presented to audiences at West Virginia University , University of Cincinnati , United States Naval Academy, Franklin and Marshall College , York College , Gretna Theatre , Pennsylvania Chautauqua, Alexandria Lyceum, and for the Pennsylvania Council for the Arts. She is currently finishing a CD based on her revue, The Sweetest Sounds: a Richard Rodgers Celebration . Her 1999 recording By George! By Ira! By Gershwin! continues selling here and abroad. Ms. Black-Sotir has created numerous works for APSA, The American Popular Song Artists, an ensemble of musicians and actors dedicated to the American Broadway Song founded by her in 1998. She is a magna cum laude graduate of Eastman School of Music with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Vocal Performance. When not on stage Ms. Black-Sotir can be seen and heard on television as an actress, host, journalist, and voice-over artist, including nearly a decade as host of Comcast Local Edition on CNN HEADLINE NEWS.

Eric Zuber, piano

Winner of the 2007 Hilton Head International Piano Competition, Eric Zuber is one of the leading American pianists of his generation. He has been awarded First Prize in numerous competitions including the 2006 International Young Artists Competition of Washington, D.C., the Yale Gordon Competition, and the Wonderlic Competition. Additional awards received include the 2006 California International Young Artists Competition and the 2006 Viardo International Piano Competition. Mr. Zuber has performed at Shriver Hall, the Kennedy Center 's Terrace Theatre, Strathmore Hall, Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall, and with the Baltimore, Peabody, and Hilton Head Symphony Orchestras, the Aspen Concert Orchestra, Spain 's New Millennium Festival Orchestra, and at the Aspen Music Festival, among others. He holds a Bachelors degree from the Peabody Conservatory, and a Performance Diploma from the Curtis Institute of Music where he studied under pianists Leon Fleisher and Claude Franck. This past Fall he returned to Peabody to pursue an Artist Diploma. Upcoming performances include engagements in Georgia , Pennsylvania , Maryland , South Carolina and Canada .

Members of American Popular Song Artists:

Pursuing the performance of art song, opera, chamber music, and cabaret, pianist R. Timothy McReynolds is also a teacher and vocal coach. He is the full-time Principal Art Song Coach on the faculty of the University of Maryland School of Music, the Music Director of Towson University 's Music for the Stage and pianist for the Vocal Masterclass Series at Loyola College . He has participated as vocal coach/pianist for the Washington National Opera's Opera Institute and the Aspen Music Festival . Dr. McReynolds has toured internationally in concerts, cabarets, and masterclasses in Mexico , Germany , and Austria . He continues his close association with the Washington Vocal Arts Society and their Discovery Recital Series . Recent concert venues include the Kennedy Center and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Washington , D.C. , the Maryland Arts Festival in Baltimore , and the Egyptian Embassy Concert Series in Vienna , Austria . Dr. McReynolds received his B.M. from Indiana University , M.M. from the University of Michigan , and completed his D.M.A. at the University of Maryland .

Bassist and Arranger Thomas Williams has traveled worldwide performing with several jazz legends. As the bassist for the “Airmen of Note,” one of the country's premier jazz ensembles, he has shared the stage with Dizzy Gillespie, Louie Bellson, and Slide Hampton and has backed such top-name entertainers as Bob Hope, Steve Allen, and The Drifters. Applauded for his superb jazz style, Mr. Williams has been recognized as a gifted composer and arranger throughout the musical community. He has been enthusiastically received at some of the most prestigious musical events, such as the Detroit Cool Jazz and The Toronto Jazz Festivals. His music can be heard in many different venues, including the International Association of Jazz Educators Conference, Walt Disney's Epcot Center , and in the nationally broadcast television program, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. A member of George Washington University's and Shepherd College's jazz faculty, he conducts workshops on the jazz style, has authored various articles on the basics of jazz bass, and co-authored an instructional video on the function of the rhythm section in the big band.

Baltimore County resident Thomas R. Beard, Jr . is quickly gaining international recognition as a leading operatic baritone, performing on stages in the U.S. , Europe, South Africa and New Zealand . He is the only African-American male to have been chosen by Placido Domingo as resident artist with Washington National Opera's Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program. Roles include “Papageno” in Die Zauberflöte , “Marcello” in La Boheme , and “Escamillo” in Carmen . He has performed with major opera companies such as the Washington National Opera, the Pittsburgh Opera, and the International Opera of Rome. Recently he returned to Baltimore from a European tour of Porgy and Bess where he portrayed the opera's title role. In addition to his opera and oratorio work, Mr. Beard performed for First Lady Laura Bush at the White House.

NORTH CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS LACROSSE COACH RECEIVES NATIONAL COACHING HONOR

John Piper, North Carroll High School head varsity boys' lacrosse coach, is the recipient of the 2007 Gerald J. Carroll, Jr., Exemplary Coaching Award winner. The Award was presented at the 2008 US Lacrosse National Convention in Philadelphia .

The Carroll Award is presented to the national boys' high school coach of the year and is dedicated “in memory of Gerald J. Carroll, Jr., who spent a good part of his brief 46 years playing and coaching lacrosse. Greater than his love for the sport, however, was his commitment to give back to the young, and the lifetime of lessons he took from the game.”

This award honors those coaches who exemplify the ideals of the game as is inscribed on the plaque – “In recognition of Coach Piper's support for players in their growth as young adults and leaders on and off the playing field, and whose success is best measured not in victories but in the care and guidance given to the balanced development of young men who play the game.”

Piper has served as a volunteer, assistant, and head coach at the high school level for approximately 15 years.

SCHOOL SYSTEM COMMITTEE SEEKS INPUT ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY AND REGULATIONS

Dr. Charles Ecker, Superintendent of Schools, has formed a committee to review Board Policy JPA – Substance Abuse, as well as the policy's administrative regulations on high school eligibility for extracurricular activities.

The committee will hold two public hearings to present the current policy and regulations and to receive public comment. Hearings will be held on Wednesday, March 19, at North Carroll High School and Tuesday, March 25, at Liberty High School . Both hearings will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will be held in the media center.

Comments may also be submitted via e-mail to feedback@k12.carr.org or U.S. mail to Dana Falls , Director of Student Services, Carroll County Public Schools, 125 North Court Street, Westminster, MD 21157.

The current policy and administrative regulations are available for review on the school system's website at http://www.carrollk12.org/whatsnew/policyjpa.htm.

Following the public hearings, the committee will discuss what, if any, changes should be made and will make a recommendation to the Superintendent by May 15, 2008.

NORTH CARROLL TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION PROGRAM RECEIVES PROGRAM EXCELLENCE AWARD
FROM INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

The Foundations of Technology program at North Carroll High School has been recognized as one of less than 50 programs worldwide to earn the prestigious Program Excellence Award. The award is sponsored by the International Technology Education Association (ITEA), the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and Paxton/Patterson. The Program Excellence Award is presented in recognition of outstanding contributions to the profession and their students.

The North Carroll High School Technology Education program is coordinated by Dick Weaver (Department Chair), Aaron Geiman, Mark Smith, Steve Shepler, Bob Bierman, Doug Hanewinckel, and Al Deming. North Carroll piloted the course Foundations of Technology using a collaborative model. The school team worked to develop a common syllabus, review standards, discuss assessment techniques, and work out issues related to student rotations between instructors.

The key to the success of this pilot was teacher collaboration. Breaking the course into themes allowed teachers to teach to their strengths and interests – invoking excitement by the teachers that radiated to the students. Due to the pilot's success, this model was duplicated during the 2007-2008 school year by other high schools within Carroll County Public Schools.

North Carroll High School was recognized with other outstanding programs from across the United States during the 70 th annual ITEA conference held in Salt Lake City, Utah.

MCNETT RECEIVES TEACHER EXCELLENCE AWARD
FROM INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

Ted McNett, a teacher at Winters Mill High School, has been recognized as one of 40 teachers worldwide to earn the prestigious Teacher Excellence Award from the International Technology Education Association (ITEA). The Teacher Excellence Award is one of the highest honors given to Technology Education classroom teachers and is presented in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the profession and their students.

McNett teaches Foundations of Technology and Advanced Technology Education courses at Winters Mill High School within the Math, Science, and Technology Academy . He has been an instrumental leader for high school Technology Education in Carroll County and in Maryland . Over the last few years, McNett worked with Maryland teachers, the Maryland State Department of Education, and the Center for the Advancement of Teaching Technology and Science to refine the national model course guide “Foundations of Technology.”

McNett was recognized with other outstanding teachers from across the United States during the 70 th annual ITEA conference held in Salt Lake City, Utah.

LEVRONEY TO RECEIVE CARROLL COUNTY HUMAN RELATIONS AWARD

Patricia Levroney, Minority Achievement Liaison for Carroll County Public Schools, is the recipient of the 2008 Carroll County Human Relations Commission Award.

The award will be presented at the Human Relations Commission's 16th annual awards dinner on Monday, March 31, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. The dinner will be held at the New Windsor Conference Center, Zigler Hall, located at 500 Main Street in New Windsor. The guest speakers will be Karen Ganjon, Director of Minority Achievement and Intervention Programs, and Margaret Kulow, Supervisor of Intervention Services, both with Carroll County Public Schools.

Members of the community are invited to attend. For more information and reservations, please contact the Human Relations Commission at 410-795-8521. The cost is $20. Reservations and payment are due by March 10, 2008.

CCPS ANNOUNCES FRAUD HOTLINE

Carroll County Public Schools has established a Fraud Hotline. Citizens wishing to provide information to the Superintendent of Schools about potential fraud, waste, or abuse of resources may do so by calling 410-386-1668. The call automatically goes to a voice mailbox that is monitored on a daily basis. The information reported is reviewed by the Superintendent of Schools. Callers may leave contact information or remain anonymous. All information will remain confidential.

SCHOOL SYSTEM ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR PREKINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

Carroll County Public Schools is accepting applications for the CCPS Prekindergarten Program. Applications will be available beginning March 3, 2008 for the 2008-2009 school year. Children must be four (4) years old by September 1, 2008 and meet program criteria to qualify for services. Students attend class five days a week for two and one-half hours per day. Applications are available at all CCPS elementary schools. You may also call the Department of Minority Achievement and Intervention Programs at 410-751-3353 for more information. There are nine regional sites designated for 2008-2009.

CARROLL SCHOOLS RECEIVE RECOGNITION IN THE ARC OF MARYLAND POSTER AND ESSAY CONTEST

Students from Cranberry Station Elementary, Manchester Elementary, and Oklahoma Road Middle Schools will be recognized as winners in the seventh annual Together We're Better poster and essay contest conducted by The Arc of Maryland.

The contest was held in conjunction with National Inclusive Schools Week in December to help schools celebrate the diverse abilities of all students and to highlight the importance of providing equal opportunities for children with disabilities.

Both the poster and essay contests asked students to share why inclusive schools are important and how students with disabilities contribute to their schools and communities. Elementary classes in public, parochial, and private schools in Maryland completed a class project to create a poster, while middle and high school students submitted original essays.

Kathy Rollings' fourth grade class at Cranberry Station Elementary School and Paul Fitzsimmons' third grade class at Manchester Elementary School received Honorable Mention in the poster contest. Three seventh grade students from Oklahoma Road Middle School were winners in the essay contest in the middle school category: Austin Fry, first place; Meg Heffner, second place; and Sammy Showman, third place.

The winners have been invited to an awards reception on February 19, 2008, at the Loews Hotel in Annapolis where they will receive their prizes, as well as House and Senate Citations. Essay winners will receive cash awards and poster winners will receive a class party and teacher gift certificates. Winning posters will be displayed in the parade of posters at the reception.

The Maryland State Department of Education, the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, and the Maryland Department of Disabilities partnered with The Arc of Maryland to sponsor the contest.

Please visit www.thearcmd.org and click on Programs/Education Advocacy to read the winning essays and view the posters.

EAST MIDDLE SCHOOL NAMED MARYLAND SCHOOL OF CHARACTER

East Middle School has been named a 2008 Maryland School of Character. This is the second year in a row that East Middle School has received this award.

The Maryland Schools of Character awards program is sponsored by the Maryland Center for Character Education and the Character Education Partnership. It recognizes schools or districts that demonstrate outstanding school climate and academic performance. The two state winners were chosen by a panel of independent reviewers who have been involved in character education and student development for many years.

East Middle School will advance to the national level competition as Maryland 's nominee for the National School of Character awards program. Additional information on the national competition is available at www.character.org.

Formal announcements and presentations will be made during the Maryland Center for Character Education's awards luncheon in September, 2008.

WINNERS IN MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. WRITING CONTEST TO BE HONORED AT CEREMONY

The McDaniel College Office of Multicultural Services received over 100 essays from Carroll County Public Schools for the Martin Luther King, Jr. writing contest. The students and their families will be honored at McDaniel College 's MLK Ceremony on Monday, February, 4, 2008. For more information, please contact Zephia Bryant, Director of Multicultural Services (410-857-2791).

The winners of this year's contest are Kevin Hudson of Century High School , Maya Koepke of Sykesville Middle School, and Alexander Stoneroad of Freedom Elementary School . All winners will receive a cash prize and a gift bag.

This year's Honorable Mentions are Danielle Hise of Westminster High School , Caroline Plescia of Sykesville Middle School , Tess Lawrence of Sykesville Middle School , Ryan Kovack of Freedom Elementary School , and Megan Wright of Freedom Elementary School . These students will receive a commemorative MLK T-shirt from the King Center in Atlanta , Georgia and a gift bag.

High school students were asked to write about how they thought Dr. King would respond to local, national and global issues such as youth violence, the Jenna 6, and the conflict in the Middle East (or other local, national and global issues). They were also asked to include what Dr. King would expect from the youth of the 21 st century. Middle school students were asked to write a letter or speech as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. did voicing their opinion and outlining action steps to respond to the same issues. Elementary school students were asked to think about how Dr. King practiced non-violence in an effort to create a beloved community. They wrote about steps they would take to create peace in their school, community and beyond.

SCHOOL SYSTEM TO OFFER SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

The Carroll County Public School System will be holding its Summer Enrichment Program again this year for interested students. This is the 26 th year the program has been in existence. It is a one-of-a-kind program in that Carroll County is the only school system in Maryland to have a countywide summer enrichment program.

The program is open to any student in the county. However, it is suggested that that the student have an average to above average grade level equivalency because of the reading involved in the courses.

The Summer Enrichment Program allows students to take courses that are not only important to them, but classes that are of high interest to them. Course offerings include such subjects as science, art, Roman history, bird watching, French, musical theater and the Chesapeake Bay. One class, entitled Around the World in Nine Days , allows students to sample nine countries and cultures in nine days and culminates with a field trip to the Statue of Liberty. Greeced Lightning is a new course this year for grades 3, 4, and 5. The class will take students through a nine-day discovery tour of Ancient Greece.

This is the second year that courses will be offered to kindergarten students. New classes for kindergarten students include Exploring with Math, Animal Kingdom, and Scholastic Key, a class where students will learn how to use technology in a fun, kid-friendly way. Other new classes have been added at most levels.

The program will consist of a nine-day session at Friendship Valley Elementary School , followed by a nine-day session at Linton Springs Elementary School .

Session 1 runs from June 23-27, June 30-July 3
Session 2 runs from July 8-11, July 14-18.

The first session is designed primarily for students in the north section of the county, while the second nine-day session is designed primarily for students in the south section of the county. However, any student in any area may sign up for any course as long as they are in the appropriate grade.

Program booklets, complete with course listings and registration information, are available in all schools or can be obtained by calling Dick Thompson, the Coordinator for the Summer Enrichment Program, at West Middle School , 410-751-3661. The deadline for registration is February 25. The registration fee for the program is $95.00 with the exception of the Carroll County Farm Museum Apprenticeship, which will be $100.00. Checks should be made out to Carroll County Public Schools – Summer Enrichment Program.

STUDENT PAGES SELECTED FOR STATE LEGISLATURE

Each year, the Maryland State Legislature invites high school students throughout the state to serve as pages on the floor of the House of Delegates and Senate. The students who will represent Carroll County during the 2008 Legislative Session are Arianna Franca, South Carroll High School; Stephen Gonski, Liberty High School; Alexandra Wunder, Francis Scott Key High School; and Lauren Baranauskas, North Carroll High School . Courtney Sibiga of North Carroll High School will serve as an alternate.

Each year, 120 pages and 36 alternates are selected by the state's local school systems to participate in the Maryland General Assembly Student Page Program. Eligible students must be Maryland residents and seniors in high school to apply. Carroll County is allotted four Pages and one Alternate based on the 12th grade public and nonpublic student enrollment.

Selected students work for two non-consecutive weeks at the State House in Annapolis assigned to either the House of Delegates or the Senate. Pages assist Delegates and Senators by keeping the members' bill books up-to-date, distributing materials on the floor to the members, running errands, answering the phone and delivering messages.

BUENGER RECEIVES EASTERN DISTRICT PHYSICAL EDUCATION AWARD

Debbie C. Buenger, a physical education teacher at Northwest Middle School, has been selected as the Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year for the Eastern District Association of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) and the National Association of Sport and Physical Education (NASPE).   Buenger received the state level Teacher of the Year award in 2006.

The AAHPERD/NASPE Eastern District encompasses fourteen states from Maryland to Maine , including the District of Columbia , the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico . One physical education teacher is selected from each level – elementary, middle, and high school – from each district. These teachers are the District representatives and are considered National Teachers of the Year for their district.

According to the award criteria, a recipient must conduct a quality physical education program, utilize various teaching methods, and plan innovative learning experiences to meet the needs of all students. The teacher also must serve as a role model for personal health and fitness, enjoyment of activity, sportsmanship, and sensitivity to the needs of students. The teacher also is expected to participate in professional development opportunities and provide service to the profession through leadership, presentations, and/or writing.

Buenger will receive the award at the Eastern District Association's conference to be held in Rhode Island from February 27 to March 1, 2008. She then will be eligible for the national award, to be presented during the AAHPERD convention in Fort Worth , Texas in April.

THREE CARROLL SCHOOLS RECOGNIZED FOR SUPERIOR MAINTENANCE

Three Carroll County schools were recognized by the state of Maryland for meeting the highest standards for school maintenance for the 2006-2007 school year. The following schools received Governor's Citations for Superior Maintenance:

• Carroll Springs School
• Friendship Valley Elementary School
• Manchester Elementary School.

Schools undergo an inspection that involves grading from Poor to Superior in 35 areas and systems both inside the school and out. The school ranking is based upon the average of the 35 ranked systems.

According to Ray Prokop, Director of Facilities, “We feel that there is a direct correlation between working and teaching conditions and student achievement. All of the credit for the Governor's recognition should go to the custodial and maintenance staff throughout Carroll County Public Schools.”

The Citations were awarded during the Board of Public Works meeting held in Annapolis on January 2, 2008.

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER PROGRAM RECEIVES CERTIFICATION

The Heavy Equipment and Truck Technology program (formerly known as Diesel Technology) at the Carroll County Career and Technology Center has received certification in Brakes, Diesel Engines, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Preventive Maintenance Inspection, and Suspension and Steering from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). 

NATEF certifies automotive, medium/heavy truck, and collision repair programs by examining the curriculum, instruction, equipment, and facility to ensure the program meets specific industry-recognized standards. Mike Wantz, the teacher for the program, was instrumental in preparing the necessary documentation and procuring the required equipment for the successful on-site evaluation. The Carroll County Career and Technology Center is one of only two centers in the state of Maryland to meet NATEF's rigorous standards for Heavy Equipment and Truck Technology.

PINEY RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL RECEIVES MARYLAND BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL AWARD

Piney Ridge Elementary School was named as a recipient of Maryland 's 2008 Blue Ribbon School Awards. Dr. Nancy Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools, announced the award on Wednesday, December 19, at the Maryland State Department of Education.

The Blue Ribbon Schools Program is a state and national program that recognizes and honors schools that exhibit high performance and/or significant improvement in reading and mathematics achievement as measured by Maryland 's assessments. Schools must meet rigorous standards developed by the Maryland State Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. These schools are either extremely high achievers in reading and mathematics or economically disadvantaged schools exceeding norms and dramatically closing achievement gaps of their students in reading and mathematics.

Maryland can select up to six schools for recognition, based on its school-age population. The Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools go on to compete for National Blue Ribbon Awards, which will be announced by the U.S. Department of Education next September.

MECHANICSVILLE PRINCIPAL RECEIVES AWARD FROM MCDANIEL COLLEGE

Robin Townsend, principal of Mechanicsville Elementary School, has been named the recipient of McDaniel College 's Joseph R. Bailer Award. This prestigious award, named for one of the college's most highly respected career educators, is presented each year to a McDaniel College master's degree recipient who has made a significant contribution to the field of education.

Townsend earned her master's degree in Exercise Science and Physical Education, as well as her certification as an administrator, at McDaniel College in 1998 while working as a physical education teacher at Mt. Airy Elementary School . She was named principal of Mechanicsville Elementary School in 2003.

Under Townsend's leadership, Mechanicsville was recognized as the Character Education School of the Year in 2004 and a Maryland Green School for 2006-2007. The Maryland State Department of Education recognized the school in 2004, 2005, and 2006 for excellence on the Maryland School Assessments. In 2006-2007, all 112 of Mechanicsville's fourth grade students scored proficient or advanced on both the reading and mathematics assessments.

The family of Joseph R. Bailer established the award to honor Bailer's career as a chairman of the McDaniel Education Department and director of the graduate program from 1949-1971. Bailer was both a mentor and an outstanding example of an educator who influenced the lives of hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to leadership roles in educational programs in Maryland and beyond. The Bailer Award rotates among the college's various certificate programs in administration, counselor education, education of the Deaf, curriculum and instruction, elementary and secondary education, school library media, reading, and special education.

WESTMINSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NAMED TO SCHOLASTIC ALL-AMERICAN SWIM TEAM

Courtney L. Griffith, a junior at Westminster High School , has been named to the 2006-2007 USA Swimming Scholastic All- America Team. Certificates were awarded to Griffith, the school, and the USA Swimming Club for which she swims.

In order to receive this honor, a swimmer must be a USA Swimming member athlete who participated in an individual event at a major meet in the last year. The swimmer also has to have a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and has to have completed 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. In addition to these requirements, the athlete had to be nominated by a USA Swimming member or coach. Individual achievement in the classroom and in the pool has been recognized by USA Swimming since 1986.

As the national governing body for competitive swimming in the United States , USA Swimming formulates the rules, implements policies and procedures, conducts national championships, disseminates safety and sports medicine information, and selects athletes to represent the United States in international competition. USA Swimming has more than 300,000 members nationwide and sanctions more than 7,000 events each year. For more information, visit usaswimming.org.

WESTMINSTER STUDENT NAMED VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR IN PRUDENTIAL SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY AWARDS PROGRAM

Sophomore Christopher Jon Anderson was named the Westminster High School volunteer of the year in the 2008 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. In addition, Junior Dana Mangano received a Certificate of Merit for her volunteer community service.

Sponsored by Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the awards recognize outstanding community service by young Americans. Chris Anderson is now eligible for the Maryland youth volunteer of the year awards. Two State Honorees, one middle school student and one high school student, will be named in February. Each will receive a $1,000 award, a silver medallion, and a trip to Washington , D.C. , for recognition ceremonies with a parent or guardian next May. Other honorees will receive bronze medallions or Certificates of Excellence.

At the Washington event, ten National Honorees will be named by a distinguished national selection committee, and each will receive an additional $5,000, a gold medallion, a crystal trophy for his or her school or organization, and a $5,000 grant from the Prudential Foundation for a nonprofit charitable organization of his or her choice.

Anderson 's volunteer project involved renovating and increasing handicap accessibility at the outdoor break area at the ARC of Carroll County. Raising over $3000, organizing volunteers, planning the renovations, and logging over 350 hours on the project both on and off-site, Chris helped to make the facilities user-friendly to both staff and clients of the ARC. He plans to continue to work with the ARC of Carroll County on other service projects and fundraising. As Chris said, “You must be totally committed in what you are doing. You can't just hit it once and walk away. We all can make a difference and mine started with a plan to improve an outdoor break area.”

“These honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate – that volunteering within the community is an essential part of one's life, “ said NASSP Executive Director Gerald Tirozzi.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards are supported by Girl Scouts of the USA, National 4-H Council, American Red Cross, YMCA of the USA, the Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network and many other national youth, service, and education organizations.

ECKER HONORED AS “FRIEND OF EDUCATION”

Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools Charles Ecker was honored at the 2007 Citi Salute to Friends of Maryland Education Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, November 14, at 11:30 a.m. at the Tremont Grand in Baltimore , Maryland .

The award honors the outstanding contributions of those in the public and private sector to Maryland public schools. Dr. Ecker will be honored for his outstanding leadership in public education, most recently as Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools. He is also being honored for his 43 years of dedicated public service and helping to enrich the lives of Maryland students.

Dr. Ecker continues to be an outstanding leader in education in Maryland . As Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools, he has continued to guide schools to greater heights of accomplishment through his belief that all students can succeed in an environment of high expectations.

Under his leadership and through his role as board member for the Maryland Council on Economic Education, Carroll County is among the first local school systems in the state to require students to pass a half-credit financial literacy course to graduate. This effort speaks to his continuing commitment to see all children be successful in their role as students and in their role as well-rounded, productive citizens.

In his tenure as a public servant, Dr. Ecker served 43 years as a professional educator in Howard, Prince George 's, and Carroll counties. He previously served two years as Interim Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools and served as Assistant Superintendent of both the Carroll County and Prince George 's County Public School Systems, as well as Deputy Superintendent of Howard County Public Schools. In 1988, Dr. Ecker was selected as one of the top 100 high school administrators in the nation. In his role as a political leader, Dr. Ecker was elected to two terms as Howard County Executive, where he was well-known for fiscal responsibility and strong leadership during the growth years characterized by tremendous economic development.

Dr. Ecker has been asked to serve on many education-related committees because of his vast experience and ability to work collaboratively. He served on the Governor's Taskforce on School Construction from 1990 -1992 and in 2003 was a member of the Task Force to Study Public School Facilities. In 2004, Dr. Ecker served on the Task Force on Comparable Testing Methods for the Maryland High School Assessments and served on the Governor's Commission on Quality Education. He was also Vice-Chair for the Subcommittee on Global Best Practices in Education. Dr. Ecker is highly regarded among his colleagues and continues to be a leader in Maryland education and the community.

The Citi Salute to Friends of Maryland Education Awards honor individuals and organizations for their dedication to the education of children in Maryland . Past recipients include Dr. Benjamin Carson and Governor William Donald Schaefer.

FSK STUDENTS EARN HONORS AT NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION

The Francis Scott Key High School FFA Chapter had three teams compete in the Career Development Events held at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis from October 24-27, 2007.

The Horse Evaluation team placed 12 th and earned gold recognition for their efforts. Team members were Drew Cashman, Colleen Slevin, Claire Bennett, and Troy Bennett. Individually, Drew and Colleen received gold awards with Claire receiving silver and Troy receiving bronze.

The Dairy Cattle Evaluation team placed 15 th and earned silver recognition. Team members were Derek Lease, Austin Schwartzbeck, John Loy, and Ashley Hevner. Derek and Austin earned gold individual awards, while John and Ashley received silver.

The Livestock Evaluation team placed 37 th and earned bronze recognition. Team members were Jason Talbert, Matt Talbert, and Kellen Troop. Individually, Matt and Jason received silver awards and Kellen received bronze.

Two graduates of Francis Scott Key High School earned their American FFA Degree during the convention. Jolene McKenzie and Amy Ridinger received the degree, which is the highest award given to a member of the FFA.

MT. AIRY SCHOOLS ESTABLISH PEER MENTORING PROGRAM

Guidance counselors Kelly Doolan of Parr's Ridge Elementary School and Diane DeAtley of Mt. Airy Middle School have established a peer mentoring program between the two schools.

The program is entitled B.U.D.S. , which stands for Building Understanding During School . This is the first year for the program, which receives financial support from the Mt. Airy Kiwanis Club. Selected seventh graders will provide assistance to second grade students once a week during the school year. Six middle school students have been taught how to teach lessons to six second graders about how to be peacemakers.

In conjunction with the peer mentoring program, Mt. Airy Middle School has a Mentor Club. Community members visit the school once a week to meet with sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students. Mentors and students are matched after taking an Interest Inventory. Fifteen students and fifteen mentors are participating in the program, which is currently in its third year. The Mentor Club also holds monthly meetings to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays, and to celebrate successes.

According to Diane DeAtley, “I'm a firm believer in mentoring. It is a win-win for everyone involved. I was mentored for four years in college and because of this experience I want to give back and be a mentor myself.” Kelly Doolan says, “I'm really excited to watch relationships develop. I hope that this connection and the focus on peacemaking skills will help the second graders to be effective problem solvers in their daily lives.”

Next year, DeAtley will assign sixth graders to mentor the second graders at Parr's Ridge. The peer mentors will follow these students through third and fourth grades at Mt. Airy Elementary. It is hoped that these students, who were mentored, will mentor first graders at Parr's Ridge when they are in the fifth grade. The cycle will continue with these mentors through the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. The names of these helping students will be sent to South Carroll High School when they leave Mt. Airy Middle School.

COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN UPDATE AND LOCAL SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANS
AVAILABLE ON CCPS WEBSITE

The Carroll County Public Schools 2007 Comprehensive Master Plan Update is now available on the Carroll County Public Schools website at www.carrollk12.org . Click on the link entitled CCPS Comprehensive Master Plan Update 2007 on the home page.

The centerpiece of the Update is the Strategic Action Plan, which details the specific actions the school system will take during the year to support state and local goals. This year's Update also includes information on student performance, financial and spending reports for federal and state grants, and initiatives and data related to professional development, safe schools, kindergarten and prekindergarten facilities.

In addition to the Comprehensive Master Plan Update, individual school improvement plans from each school in the county are also available on the CCPS website by accessing the Bulletin Board under What's New in CCPS.