BFES Weekly Update
Laura Swerdzewski
Important Date:
Important Dates:
January 30th - Coffee and Conversation
February 1st - Assembly Grades K-5
February 7th - General PTA Meeting
In this newsletter you will find information on:
Coffee and Conversation
Black History Month Plans
Age-Appropriate and Grade-Level Inclusive Books to be Added to MCPS Schools
New Inclement Weather Color System
Schedule for Possible Inclement Weather Virtual Learning
Special Education and 504 Parent Focus Group Sign Up
MCPS Inclusive Books
Lunch Menu
K-2 - Request an at Home Chromebook
PTA Update
Celebrating Black History Month
Black History Month, which is celebrated each year during February, is a chance for Americans to learn details of their nation’s history that, unfortunately, are far too often neglected and pushed to the wayside. As the saying goes, Black history is American history — and it’s a varied and rich history.
At Beverly Farms ES we will focus on the 2023 THEME: BLACK RESISTANCEStudents will learn about 20 Black Americans who advocated for a just democratic society and personified a dignified self-determine life. These individuals also have corresponding books written about them available for purchase at Scholastic’s website.
Click Here (the information was gathered and shared in collaboration with the BFES NAACP Chairs)
We also have a series of read alouds entitled Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by, Vashti Harrison
On February 1st we will be hosting an assembly Beat Ya Feet featuring Kevin “Noodlez” Davis. Kevin Davis, known as “Noodlez” in the dance community, is the leader of the third generation of Go-Go Music’s Beat Ya Feet Dance Movement. As an artist and educator, Kevin represents dance excellence in the Beat Ya Feet dance style and has opened up doors for the younger generations by teaching them different ways to thrive within the community while empowering them with dance skills, in addition to providing emotional support and realistic advice. Beat Ya Feet dancing is a bridge for the upcoming generations to keep the DC Go-Go music tradition alive. Our Go-Go culture is unique, and we encourage the community to embrace it and help it continue to evolve. As a leader of the third generation, Kevin strives to keep protecting and helping the culture evolve.
Age-Appropriate and Grade-Level Inclusive Books to be Added to MCPS Schools
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.
Inclement Weather 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.
*At BFES there will only be one zoom link students will access for the entire day and teachers will rotate in when there is a special.
Request a Device for Home Use for their Child
You are receiving this message because this year, your child’s school is using a classroom cart model for Chromebooks. This means students use an assigned Chromebook while in school, but do not bring their Chromebook home each night. As we move into the winter months and plan for potential emergency closures, your child will need access to a device at home to engage in homework, interactive resources and potential virtual instruction. If your child does not have access to a personal or home computer, a parent or guardian should complete a form to request an MCPS Chromebook. The device will be checked out to your student and will be kept at home for the school year. The device will need to be returned at the end of the school year or sooner if your student is leaving MCPS for any reason.
To request a MCPS Chromebook for home use, please complete this form: Chromebook Form to Distribute to Families
Links:
At Home Request for Chromebook Flyer (English)
At Home Request for Chromebook Flyer (Spanish)
Stay Connected with MCPS During Inclement Weather
MCPS offers numerous ways to learn about your student’s school closures, delayed openings and early dismissals when there is inclement weather. Learn more about weather decisions and how to stay in touch with MCPS here:
Stay ConnectedHow To Receive Emergency Information
Parent Focus Group - Special Education and 504's
We are looking for a group of parents to share their experiences, concerns, and hopes in terms of their child's experiences in the school setting. Please sign up below if you are interested in being involved.
Click Here to Join
PTA updates:
PTA General Meeting on February 7 at 7:00 PM (via Zoom)
- · Open until January 31: Talent Show registrations
- · Extended to January 31: Beverly Farms Spirit Store
- · Last call: winter after-school enrichments registration
- · Potluck Teachers & Staff Lunch: we need your help!
Save the date: PTA General Meeting on February 7 at 7:00 PM
Please mark your calendars for the next PTA General Meeting. It will be held via zoom at 7pm on Tuesday, February 7th. In the PTA meeting we will discuss issues related to the school and county, updates from the Principal, info on upcoming PTA events like the scholastic book fair and variety show, and an update on the budget. The detailed agenda will be published in next weekend's newsletter.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://mcpsmd.zoom.us/j/82235690543?pwd=LzhFajZZeGZrRWExNGhYVWtaMlVjUT09
Meeting ID: 822 3569 0543
Passcode: bfesPTA
Extended to January 31! Shop now at your Beverly Farms Eagles Spirit Store
It’s time to show your Beverly Farms school spirit! Our online apparel store for students, parents, and staff is open from now through Tuesday, January 31. In this shop you will find t-shirts and hoodies that we hope all our Beverly Farms community will wear to show their school spirit. Click here for the link to the store!
Beverly Farms Talent Show 2023: Registrations open until January 31
The Beverly Farms Talent Show is back! Calling Beverly Farms students K-5 who wish to share their talents with friends and family. Singers, dancers, musicians, magicians, comedians, poets and more… all performers, solos or groups, can sign up using this form. Hurry! We accept entries until January 31.
- · Talent Show: March 26 - Split into an early session for K-2, and a later session for 3-5. More details to come.
- · Dress rehearsal: March 23. More details to come.
Last call! Registrations open for winter after-school enrichments
Visit https://schools.kiddo.us/s/bfes-md to check all the amazing after-school enrichments opportunities that are being offered during winter. All programs are first come first serve, so register now! Your child will surely enjoy afternoons filled with sports, dance, pottery, chess, science, Spanish, Chinese, karate, or yoga.
These activities are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Board of Education of Montgomery County, the superintendent, this PTA, or this school.
Potluck Teachers & Staff Lunch: we need your help!
Calling all BFES Families! On Thursday, February 9th, we will be treating our beloved staff to a potluck lunch and need your help and contributions. These lunches are always a big hit, so please use this SignUp Genius and let us know how you can help. Questions? Contact Carrie cnicholson97@yahoo.com or Rachel rsr313@yahoo.com.
