BMS Newsletter
"Quality Learning and Positive Personal Development for All"
Summer 2023
Our MISSION
UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES
FCPS CALENDAR
Principal's Message
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you and your families in good health and enjoying a wonderful summer break. As we gear up for the beginning of the 2023-2024 academic year, I wanted to take a moment to share some important updates about our school.
First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and trust in our school. At BMS, we are dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and intellectually stimulating environment for your children, and we are genuinely excited about the possibilities that the upcoming school year holds.
One of our main objectives for this year is to foster a strong sense of belonging and community among our students. To achieve this, our dedicated staff will be introducing a new Social-Emotional Learning program with strategies that will empower our students to navigate the middle school years with confidence. We are delighted to expand our efforts in ensuring that all students benefit from a safe and supportive school environment. This journey begins with the implementation of a systemwide Student Code of Conduct by FCPS. This document outlines our commitment, how we will address challenges, and the consistent support we offer across all our schools. We will share more details about the Student Code of Conduct during the first week of school.
Our team is thrilled about the positive changes we've made to the middle school elective course offerings. Now, students can choose from both year-long and semesterized options, ensuring that they get at least one of their top 3 elective choices. In fact, this flexibility has opened up opportunities for mixed grade level electives, something we've been successfully doing at BMS for several years, particularly in Chorus, Art, and World Language classes. Our students can expect even more exciting mixed grade level elective options this year, allowing them to explore subjects that truly interest them.
Throughout the summer months, we have been busy working on school improvement and hiring staff. I am happy to introduce the following new BMS staff members:
Samantha Baker: Science
Colleen Barnhouse: Special Education
Rudy Begazo:Spanish
Katherine Boroughs: Art/World Language Exploratory
Marcie Claggett: Special Education Instructional Assistant
Andi Cregan: Mathematics
Kristen Durbin: Career Coach
Jackson Emch: User Support Specialist
Eric Evitts: Guidance
Matt Fowle: Band/Orchestra/Chorus
James McAllister: Assistant Lead Custodian
Chad Moreland: PE/Health/World Language Exploratory
William Norton: Multilingual Education
Amy Pearre: Guidance
Pherin Smith: Administrative Secretary
David Quay: PE
Latoya Thomas: Life Skills/Food Science
Faron Webb: Custodian
At BMS, we firmly believe that a strong partnership between home and school is fundamental to your child's academic success and personal growth. To keep you well-informed, we will continue using Find-Out-First, Schoology, email, and our monthly newsletters to share important updates and upcoming events at BMS.
Additionally, please take note of the following key dates and events for the start of the school year.
On 8/1, FCPS will reset ALL student passwords to their Student ID number. This password will allow students to log in to their Schoology, Chromebooks, Chrome Browser, and other FCPS resources. Students in grades 3 - 12 will be required to change their passwords at initial logon. Should you need to access your account prior to the start of school, please click this link for more information.
By 8/10, student schedules will be available in Schoology. You can check your child's schedule to prepare them for the first day of school.
For parents who require bus information, on 8/12, initial bus details will be available on the FCPS website. Simply use your child's ID number to look up the bus information.
On 8/16, we will be holding our Open House with two time slots: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM for 7th and 8th-grade students, and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for 6th-grade students only. Students are welcome to pick up a hard copy of their schedule and school map and take a self-guided tour to locate classes and walk through their daily schedule. Please note that teachers will not be present during this event. However, Snow Ball Waterfall snow cones will be available for purchase, adding a fun touch to the day.
Mark your calendars for Back-to-School Night on 8/21 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Families can drop in anytime between these hours for the opportunity to informally tour our building and "meet and greet" with teachers and other staff members. It would be helpful if you bring a copy (paper or electronic) of your child's schedule for reference.
Finally, we are excited to welcome everyone on 8/23 for the first day of the 2023-2024 school year! We are looking forward to embarking on this educational journey together and creating a year full of learning and growth.
Thank you for your continuous support of our school community. We eagerly look forward to collaborating with you to ensure a memorable and successful year for your child. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me or any member of our administrative staff.
As the summer days wind down, we eagerly anticipate welcoming you back to BMS. Enjoy the remaining days of this beautiful season, and we can't wait to see you soon!
Principal Warren
State Vaccination Reminder
The Frederick County Health Department will be hosting Back to School vaccination clinics from August 1 to September 11 for children who do not have health insurance, have health insurance that does not cover the cost of immunizations or who are unable to get the vaccination from their healthcare provider. Vaccinations are free for these children and appointments are required. Call 301-600-3342 to schedule an appointment.
Children who have health insurance that covers vaccinations are encouraged to see their healthcare provider.
Maryland State Law (COMAR 10.06. 04.03) requires all students enrolled in prekindergarten through Grade 12 to receive age-appropriate immunizations. The Maryland vaccination requirements for the 2023-2024 school year are available here.
Parents and guardians are responsible for their children being up-to-date on their school required immunizations. Per Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), beginning on the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL, FCPS will EXCLUDE ANY STUDENTS WHO DO NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS unless they present evidence of an appointment for the missing immunizations scheduled within the next 20 calendar days.
Use of Backpacks
As we gear up for the start of the new school year, I want to take a moment to address an important update regarding our school policy on backpacks.
Before the pandemic, students at BMS were not allowed to wear backpacks during the school day. However, in response to the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, we temporarily allowed students to carry their backpacks as an accommodation to ensure their safety and convenience.
Now, as we move towards a more normal school year, we have carefully considered the best approach for our students' well-being and the overall school environment. Starting from the upcoming academic year, we will be reinstating the previous policy, requiring students to place their backpacks in lockers during school hours.
We understand that this decision may be met with mixed feelings among our community. Some parents may prefer their children to carry backpacks for various reasons. However, we believe that by having students utilize their lockers, we can create a safer and more organized learning environment. It will help reduce clutter in classrooms, minimize tripping hazards in busy corridors, and enhance students' ability to focus on their studies.
We assure you that our school staff will be available to assist students in using their lockers effectively and efficiently. We will work together to make the transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we strive to provide the best learning environment for our students.
The counselors work limited hours during the summer. If you have general questions please email the grade-level counselor and we will get back to you when we are working. If you need immediate help, please contact the front office. If your family moves over the summer, please let us know since we will be preparing student schedules that will be released in August (we will send a Find Out First later, with specifics). Enjoy the break and we will see you in August!
BMS Counseling Department
Mr. Eric Evitts
6th Grade & & 7th Grade Last Names Beginning with A-K
240-236-5364
Ms. Amy Pearre
8th Grade & 7th Grade Last Names Beginning with L-Z
240-236-5403
Ms. Daniele Richmond
Registrar
240-236-5362
Community Service Hours
All required community service hours are built into the FCPS Essential Curriculum, but if a student has completed additional service hours that extended beyond class requirements, those hours may be documented on the FCPS Volunteer Hours and Community Service Form . The form details the types of activities that qualify for recognized service hours. Completed forms may be returned to the School Counseling office or emailed directly to the School Counselor:
Mr. Eric Evitts
6th Grade & & 7th Grade Last Names Beginning with A-K
240-236-5364
Ms. Amy Pearre
8th Grade & 7th Grade Last Names Beginning with L-Z
240-236-5403
MEDICATION/TREATMENT ORDERS FROM YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
PREPARING FOR THE 2023-24 SCHOOL YEAR
Medication/Treatment Orders from your Health Care Provider
The medication/treatment authorization form(s) specific to your child's health/medication needs must be renewed at the beginning of each school year. Forms are available online at www.fcps.org or at your child's school.
Maryland regulation dictates that we determine expiration dates as follows: (1) one year from the dispensing date on the pharmacy label or, (2) the expiration date on the medication package, whichever comes first.
To ensure your child's medication/treatment needs are met at the start of the school year submit medications/supplies, and completed forms to the health room. Please contact the health room in advance to ensure availability of School Health staff.
School health staff will review physician orders/medications. It is the parent/guardian responsibility to ensure that medications/orders are compliant with state regulation. Please do not send your child to school with medications. Per FCPS Reg 400-23, it is the parent/guardian responsibility to deliver physician orders/medications directly to School Health staff.
COMMUNITY BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS
SRO Night
The 2nd Annual Frederick County Sheriff's Office/Frederick Police Department SRO Back to School night is Tuesday, Aug. 8, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Governor Thomas Johnson High School. Three chrome books will be given away, one every hour! Students must be present to win.
There will also be: free schools supplies, food trucks, hotdogs, cotton candy, and popcorn!
Back-to-School Block Party
The New Hope United Methodist Church of Brunswick is hosting a Back-to-School Block Party on August 19 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at Martin's Creek Parking Lot and E. Potomac St. between S. Maple Ave. and S. First Ave. There will be lots of free family fun.
FCPS BACK TO SCHOOL RESOURCES
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Frederick Community Action Agency, George L. Shields Foodbank
Phone: 301-600-1506
14 E. All Saints St. Frederick, MD 21701
Food Bank: Mon thru Friday 2:00 - 4:00 pm Call for Appointment
Soup Kitchen: daily 5:30 - 6:30 pm.
Carry-out only. Can deliver food to family if a family member has Covid-19.
Frederick Rescue Mission
Phone: 301-695-6633
419 South St. Frederick, MD 21701
Food Pantry: Bring Photo ID Tue and Wed 1:30 - 3:30 pm and Thu 2:00 - 6:00 pm.
Food Pantry Closed Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Mental Health Association of Frederick County
Phone: 301-663-0011
226 South Jefferson St. Frederick, MD
Crisis walk in Mental health services.
Local Resource Guide-https://sites.google.com/view/covid19frederick/home
Student Homelessness Initiative Program (SHIP)Phone: 240-415-8971
Email: info@shipfrederick.comProvides hygiene, clothing, shoes, youth activities and experiences, and emergency shelter for Homeless Students in Frederick County. Please email info@shipfrederick.com
Frederick Community Action Agency
Phone: 301-600-1506 or 301-600-3955
http://www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/183/Frederick-Community-Action-Agency
Frederick County Department of Social Services
Phone: 301-600-4555
Homeless Prevention Program - if eleigible could help pay rent to prevent eviction
Call 301-909-6362
Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs
Phone: 301-631-2670
Phone: 240-446-9649
https://www.thereligiouscoalition.org/Help with eviction assistance not due to Covid-19, Security Deposits, Energy Assistance Program, Emergency Family Shelter
Crisis Services
Dial 211
Brunswick Middle School
Email: BMS.Attendance@fcps.org
Website: https://education.fcps.org/bms/
Location: Brunswick Middle School, Cummings Drive, Brunswick, MD, USA
Phone: 240-236-5400