The Wolf Howl
February 2023
Letter From The Principal
We had a great first semester of school at Watkins Mill Elementary! Our staff is working hard to create rigorous learning opportunities for students. Administration continues to visit many classrooms and it is evident that everyone is working hard to achieve results for our students.
In addition to providing a strong academic focus, we are working very hard to make our school a safe, caring environment for both our students and staff. Our staff is committed to fostering positive relationships with students and you can support our efforts by reminding children to be Respectful, Responsible, Good Citizens.
Staying in Touch with MCPS
Winter weather is here. MCPS offers numerous ways for parents to learn about school closures, delayed openings, and early dismissals due to inclement weather. Sign up for AlertMCPS and receive text messages or e-mails from MCPS during weather-related emergencies and other major events that impact school system operations. Parents can also sign up to receive alerts specific to their child’s school by visiting www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/emergency/alertmcps.aspx.
February Events
WMES Krispy Kreme Fundraiser
January 9-February 9
WMES Kids Heart Challenge
February 1-February 28
Town Hall Assemblies
Friday, February 3
5th Grade Field Trip: Maryland Science Center
Friday, February 3
Ledo Pizza Fundraiser
Tuesday, February 7
4:00pm-9:00pm
Family Market Day & Wellness Fair
Tuesday, February 7
4:00pm-6:00pm
In-Person Parent Cafe
Thursday, February 9
9:00am
Virtual Bedtime Stories
Thursday, February 16
7:00pm
No School
Monday, February 20
Club Yearbook Photos
Wednesday, February 22
3rd Grade Field Trip: Imagination Station
Thursday, February 23
Save The Date!
School Updates
FREE SHIPPING on all spiritwear starting March 10!
WMES Kids Heart Challenge
February is American Heart Month. We are partnering with American Heart Association to hold a Kids Heart Challenge from February 1-February 28!
Help Your Child Make A Difference! You can help your student setup a customized web page with a photo or video and email it to friends and family asking for their support. Donations are made directly to your student's web page – it’s that easy and something the family can do together! Help your child join their school team online and your family will be one step closer to being Heart Heroes helping to save lives! Students will receive rewards throughout the month based on donations collected and lessons/challenges completed in the Finn's Mission on students' webpage. At the end of the month, students from each grade level that have the most completed will be selected to pie a WMES staff member in the face at our celebration
HOW TO REGISTER
Step 1: Visit www.heart.org/kidsheartchallenge.
Step 2: Find your school and sign up
Step 3: When you find your school, click Join Team
Step 4: Fill in the information under Option 2. Choose a username and password that you can remember. Select and answer a security question
Step 5: Complete your profile
Step 6: Set your goal. How much do you think you can raise? Add your own donation amount in the Be the First One section
Step 7: Review the Waiver/Agreement with your parents and/or teacher and click "I Agree" to accept it.
You are registered! Click "Continue" to go to your HeadQuarters where you can personalize your Webpage and share with family and friends
In addition to the fundraising portion, we will be having a fun challenge between our classrooms! Our students will be competing among students in their grade level to see what class can get the most students to complete Finn’s Mission (for a class reward)! At the end of the challenge, we will have a celebration assembly where the student with the most lessons completed in Finn's Mission will get to pie a staff member in the face! There will also be awards and prizes throughout the challenge for students who register and participate.
Finn's Mission is an activity map with different badges students can earn from learning about the signs of stroke, hands-on CPR, sharing the fundraiser with family and friends, etc.
RESOURCES
- Coloring Pages
- Heart Facts with Activities
- Heart Healthy Bingo - English/Spanish - This will be sent home with all students. Any students who complete the Heart Healthy Bingo should return it to their teacher, and then to me to get a reward!
- Mindfulness Resources with Activities
- Ways To Get Moving - these handouts will be sent home with students for families to do at home!
WMES Adult English Classes!
Valentine's Day
Join WMES Girl Scout Troop!
This Month's Market Day
This Month's Fundraiser: Ledo Pizza!
*Stop by to pick up some dinner on your way home from our Family Market Day!
February Parent Café
LAST CALL for our WMES Holy Cross Parent Workshop!
Click here to view the flyer with more details and registration!
WMES is starting a PTO, and we need YOU!
MLK ACT OF SERVICE AT WMES
Wellness Words of Wisdom
Mental Health Resources
"Where can I learn more about children's mental health?"
Always seek immediate help if a child engages in unsafe behavior or talks about wanting to hurt themselves or someone else. Refer to this list of local and national resources: Where To Get Help
It can be hard for families to tell the difference between challenging behaviors and emotions that are consistent with typical child development and those that are cause for concern. In general, if a child’s behavior persists for a few weeks or longer, causes distress for the child or the child’s family, and interferes with functioning at school, at home, or with friends, then consider seeking help.
Listed below are informational resources on a variety of mental health topics to help families and educators support student success.
What is Mental Health? | Español
Supporting Children’s Mental Health | Español
What to Expect: Healthy Mental and Emotional Development
Facts for Families: Early Childhood Mental Health
Facts for Families: When to Seek Help
Facts for Famlies: Well-being and Resiliency
Resilience Guide for Parents and Teachers
The Road to Resilience | 10 Ways to Build Resilience
Parents Guide to Getting Good Care
Finding Culturally Proficient Mental Health Providers
Grief | Grief after a Traumatic Event | Helping Children Cope
Oppositional and Defiant Disorders
Self Injurious Behavior | Español
Substance Use | Español | Keeping Youth Drug Free
Suicide | Start the Conversation | Support for Suicidal Thinking and Threats | Español
Friday Bags
Watkins Mill Elementary School is excited to continue our Friday Bags program in partnership with Watkins Mill High School and Manna Food! Every Friday, students who have signed up for Friday Bags will receive a bag of food to take home for the weekend. The amount of food and food items in the bag will vary based on each week's distribution.
If you would like your student(s) to receive Friday Bags this school year, please contact your student's teacher or a member of our WMES Family Support Team!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS MONTH'S WOLF PAW WINNERS!
WMES Culture Night 2023
MCPS Updates
New Color Code to Identify Closure, Delay, or Possible Shift to Virtual Learning
As we now settle into the middle of the winter weather season, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is improving its process for informing the community when weather requires an operational status change and when a closure might justify a shift to virtual instruction. When it is determined that conditions are unsafe for students and staff, we have six operational status options, which will now be reported by easy-to-understand, color-coded messages.
The safety of students and staff remains the top priority, and MCPS understands the inconvenience these situations can cause for families and staff. Operational changes due to emergency weather conditions are only made when necessary and after careful review.
In making a decision, MCPS leadership reviews information from national and local weather experts, local emergency management officials, and the operating status of other government and neighboring school districts. Additionally, leadership gathers information from state highway administrators and relies on key MCPS personnel who inspect the conditions of roads, sidewalks, MCPS parking lots and bus lanes.
Virtual Learning
Code Purple, which will indicate a shift to virtual learning, will ensure teaching and learning continues during weather emergencies. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has provided this opportunity to local school systems, and the Montgomery County Board of Education approved the virtual plan during its Jan. 12 business meeting. The approved plan has been sent to MSDE and this option can be used after receiving final approval. Available technology and previous virtual learning experience will enable MCPS to continue working with students even during inclement weather and emergencies. There are essential guidelines so staff and students can be fully prepared. These guidelines include:
- Is the impacting event predictable?
- Is the impacting event part of a multi-day scenario (such as a blizzard) or isolated to a day?
- Can prior preparation and communication with families, students and staff take place?
Communication
Communication is vital to ensuring that students, staff and families can easily transition. MCPS will follow these steps to let students, families and staff know:
- A “Get Ready” announcement (meaning weather is imminent) will be made districtwide.
- The decision to offer virtual learning will be made by noon the day before any potential weather.
- Student Well-Being Teams will contact identified students and families as a reminder about virtual start times.
- Schools will message families to remind them that it is a required school day and how to log in to classes.
When the weather is a concern, MCPS aims to ensure you are kept up to date with timely and accurate information. Please be sure to monitor weather-related delays, closings, and early dismissals and cooperate with school personnel as we work to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Check your ParentVUE accounts and, if needed, update the contact information. This will ensure you receive all necessary school operational status updates.
Montgomery County Public Schools
More Information about Virtual Learning here
More Information about the Color Codes here
Special Education Resources
The Office of Special Education (OSE) has developed new resources to be shared with staff members, students, and families. OSE news now has YouTube videos, flyers/bulletins, Twitter, and events posted on Facebook for our community and is sharing these opportunities with families all over the county. The OSE Family Support Center also provides virtual drop-in sessions via Zoom to engage, answer questions, and assist students and their families.
Links/Additional Information
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063543524256.
- Our Facebook handle/account is: MCPS Special Education.
- Twitter handle/account: @MCPSMDSpecialEd.
- YouTube MCPS Special Education: https://www.youtube.com/@MCPSMDSpecialEd
- Our channel provides content through videos uploaded monthly from our Special Education Community and Citizens Advisory Committee meetings and other live events.
- Montgomery County Public Schools: Special Education Community Information page.
Application to 2023-2024 Montgomery Virtual Academy Now Open
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is already planning for the start of the upcoming school year 2023 – 2024, including the Montgomery Virtual Academy (MVA). The primary focus of the MVA is to foster a safe, inclusive online learning environment that meets the individual needs of all students in an academic setting where staff know their students' interests, and want to see them excel as learners. The open application period will begin on January 5, 2023 and run through February 2, 2023.
Please access the MVA Application Link to apply.
Read the full message here: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/virtualacademy/news-index/fy24-application-announcement/
Apply here: https://md-mcps.edupoint.com/PXP2_OEN_Login.aspx
MCPS: Age-Appropriate and Grade-Level Inclusive Books to be Added to MCPS Schools
Per MCPS: As a reflection of our ongoing commitment to ensure our curriculum is inclusive and affirming of all students, MCPS has approved a selection of LGBTQ+-inclusive texts for use in the classroom. Reading stories that reflect the diversity of our school community and world encourages respect and empathy for all.
As with all curriculum resources, there is an expectation that teachers utilize the texts as a part of instruction. It is important to note that using the materials is optional as it is standard practice that teachers have a choice regarding which materials to use. A link of approved texts is included in the Curriculum section of the MCPS LGBTQ+ webpage that includes a list of approved texts.
Free SAT Prep for High School Students Available Now
MCPS is pleased to partner with FEV Tutor to provide students high-quality virtual tutoring sessions personalized to each student’s needs. High school students can sign up for a free six-week course between now and March. Email FEV Tutor or call 855-763-2607 with questions.
Sessions are available:
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m., Saturdays, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Reminder: Weekend Vaccine Clinics Are Open
Free Tutoring Available to All MCPS Students
There are several free tutoring options available to MCPS students. FEV Tutor and Tutor Me Education offer free, virtual tutoring. By logging into their Clever accounts, students can join a tutoring session. Both companies offer the same two services: On-demand homework help that require no scheduling and scheduled, ongoing tutoring for longer term support.
FEV Tutor
More information linked in English and Spanish
To set up tutoring: mcps@fevtutor.com
*Offers tutoring without cameras for students in grades 3-12 who learn best without a camera.
Tutor Me Education
More information linked in English and Spanish
To set up tutoring: MCPS@tutormeeducation.com or 240-618-2549
Free English Classes for MCPS Parents
In collaboration with MCPS, the Literacy Council of Montgomery County (LCMC) is offering free English as a Second Language classes for MCPS parents. Parents with questions regarding class availability and the sign-up process should email Kevin Ralph from LCMC at kevin@lcmcmd.org or call 240-665-0471.
FREE Chromebooks for MCPS Students to Keep at Home
*Requesting the device implies consent of use in accordance with MCPS policy (IGT-RA) and acknowledgement that the Chromebook, software, and issued peripherals are owned by MCPS.
SchoolCash Online Registration
SchoolCash Online is an easy to use and safe way to pay for your children’s school fees. Now, with a few clicks, you can pay for your child’s yearbook, class trips and so much more from your own home. All you have to do is register an account, attach your children and in no time you will be able to make payments online.
Click here to view instructions in English
MCPS Parent Academy To-Go
The MCPS Fall 2022 Parent Academy To Go session will begin on September 14. Please join us to engage in virtual workshops that will provide tips, tools, and strategies to support your child’s academic progress and social emotional well-being. Please see the schedule and register for upcoming workshops below.
A Reminder to Stay Connected with MCPS During Inclement Weather
MCPS offers numerous ways to learn about potential school closures, delayed openings and early dismissals when there is inclement weather.
- ConnectED System Email and Text Messages
Please make sure emergency contact information on file at your child’s school is up to date. - AlertMCPS and MCPS Alerta (Spanish)
Receive text messages or emails from MCPS during weather-related emergencies and other major events that impact school system operations. Parents can also sign up to receive alerts specific to their child’s school.
Subscribe to AlertMCPS - MCPS homepage
www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org - MCPS cable channels
- Comcast 34 (1071 HD), Verizon 36 or RCN 89
- Recorded information
301-279-3673 - Ask MCPS
240-740-3000. Staff take calls from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, in English and Spanish. - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram in English and Spanish
http://twitter.com/mcps
https://twitter.com/MCPSEspanol
https://www.facebook.com/mcpsmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcpsespanol
https://www.instagram.com/mcps_md - Local radio and TV stations
Community Updates
MCPS Community Resource Guide
Residents asked to help shape future of recreation in the Village!
The Montgomery Village Foundation Department of Recreation and Parks is currently updating its Strategic Plan to help direct the future of recreation in Montgomery Village. The goal of the plan is to establish updated actionable priorities for the next 5 years (2024 to 2028).
Washington WIzards' Winter Reading Challenge
Participating is easy:
- Sign up online via MCPL’s website.
- Print a game board at home or pick one up at your local library.
- Read any book of your choosing for 20 minutes a day and complete fun activities to receive points and earn badges.
- Earn the Reading badge and at least two other badges focused on Fitness Fun, Programs or Connect and Share by March 31 to complete the Challenge.
Register for the Wizards Winter Reading Challenge at https://www.dcfamily.com/winter-reading-challenge or by visiting MCPL’s website or any of MCPL’s 21 locations.
Use the QR code below for a FREE child's ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket to a D.C. United game!
Youth & Teen Sports - Spring Registration Now Open!
Montgomery County Recreation to Host Summer Camps Fairs on Saturday, Jan. 7 and Sunday, Jan. 22
Montgomery County Recreation provides hundreds of healthy summer camp programs at locations throughout the County. Parents are encouraged to plan early for the summer months as many camps fill up quickly. Registration open now!
Calling All Fathers!
Click here to register for the Spring Fatherhood Initiative Program: https://forms.gle/rTnPntSk8TQAaoWXA
WMES Diaper Distributions
If you are in need of diapers and/or wipes at any time throughout the school year, please complete our WMES Diaper Request Form at the link below!
Previous Newsletters
Missed one of our Parent Cafes? No problem! Check out the presentations below!
Quick Links
Watkins Mill Elementary School
Mrs. Brooke Simon, Principal
Ms. Alejandra Olavarrieta, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Frances Avila-Miller, Assistant School Administrator
Email: Chelsea_J_Aceves@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/watkinsmilles/
Location: 19001 Watkins Mill Road, Montgomery Village, MD, USA
Phone: (240) 740-5280
Facebook: facebook.com/WMESCommunity
Twitter: @WMESCommunity
ASK MCPS/SPANISH HOTLINE
Call: 240-740-3000
Provides answers to community questions in English and Spanish from 7:30 a.m.
to 4:00 p.m., Mondays through FridaysE-mail: ASKMCPS@mcpsmd.org
Visit: Department of Family and Community Partnerships (DFCP) at 850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850