Mr. Brown's Weekly Newsletter
Issue 21- January 22, 2023
Important Dates in January!
December
- January 26- Last Day of Marking Period 2
- January 27- Professional Day (No School for Students)
- January 30- First Day of Marking Period 3
SchoolCash Online (SCO) Pin & Registration
If you cannot find your child(ren)'s PIN, please contact Ms. Lizbeth Roop, administrative secretary, lizbeth_c_roop@mcpsmd.org. Additionally, you can send an email to communitytechsupport@mcpsmd.org. to obtain your pin.
2023 RCMS Yearbook
There are only 5 DAYS left to pre-order your yearbook! Please order your yearbook, using this link!
Find My School/Group Store. Order your class yearbook, shop for your custom class ring, shop for your graduation needs, and show your pride with custom school apparel and gifts.
Volunteer at Roberto Clemente Middle School
RCMS appreciates the support of the parent and community volunteers who support the essential needs of the school. Volunteers and partnership agencies are required to complete certain compliance measures in order to volunteer within RCMS and MCPS.
- Online Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect Training via their myMCPS Classroom/Canvas account
(Gradesheet will show 100% for successful completion) - COVID-19 Vaccination Attestation
(Gradesheet will show 83.3% for successful completion) - Fingerprinting/Background check (ONLY if the volunteer is working alone with students without supervision of an MCPS staff member or other type of volunteer service, per the Volunteers Regulation)
Online Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect Training & COVID-19 Vaccination Attestation
Online Training
Online Training Support Guide
English| Español | 中文 | Français | tiếng Việt | 한국어 | አማርኛ | Portuguêse
Need to create and access your myMCPS Classroom/Canvas Account? Check out the step-by-step User-Guide (with pictures) in order to complete the Online Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect Training module AND upload the Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination from the state Department of Health.
Need to access your vaccination certificate? MCPS is asking for a pdf copy of your vaccination certificate in order to upload it to this module, you can download a copy from Maryland MyIR (directions for completing this process are located in this support guide). As an alternative, you may also upload a copy of one of the following:
- State Department of Health Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination (DC, VA, WV)
- Vaccination verification provided by the volunteer's health insurance provider
- A letter from a primary care physician attesting to your vaccine status
Fingerprinting/Background Check
Volunteers are required to complete fingerprinting and background checks if they are volunteering in the following roles:
- Volunteer coaches
- Overnight chaperones on grade 6 Outdoor Environmental Education Programs
- Volunteers on overnight field trips
- Volunteers on extended day trips that require additional approval from the Office of School Support and Improvement. For example, if departure time is not within the MCPS operations start time and/or return time is later than 7:00 p.m.*
*All Athletics/Fine Arts trips travelling less than 100 miles on a single-day trip do not require fingerprint or background checks.
MCPS Background Screening
The Department of Systemwide Safety and Emergency Management (DSSEM) with MCPS is responsible for conducting a fingerprint review of individuals in order to ensure a safe and secure learning and working environment.
- MCPS Outdoor Education Chaperones please click here.
- MCPS New Hires, Interns, and Volunteers/Chaperones please click here.
- MCPS Contractors please click here.
Hours of Operation
- Fingerprinting: Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:000pm (Closed 1pm-2pm)
- Paperwork Submission: Mondays - Friday 9am-3:30pm (Closed 1-2pm)
Volunteer Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions: English | español | français | 中文 | tiếng Việt| 한국어 | አማርኛ
- MCPS Volunteer Regulation: webpage
- Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect: webpage
Website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/student-leadership/volunteer.aspx
Type of Volunteer & Key Information
- One-time volunteers who will never be alone with students at the MCPS school do NOT need to complete the compliance measures.
- They WILL need to check-in and check-out of the main office and scan their driver's license/identification cards through the Visitor Management System (VMS). Once the volunteer clears the VMS, they must be badged (the VMS creates a sticker badge) and remain under supervision of an MCPS professional while with students.
Volunteers who will be attending field trips or supporting the school as a regular volunteer
- These volunteers must complete BOTH the online child abuse and neglect training and the COVID attestation process.
- Volunteers can pull their grade sheet showing a total of 183.3%. This grade shows completion of both processes.
- They WILL need to check-in and check-out of the main office and scan their driver's license/identification cards through the Visitor Management System (VMS). Once the volunteer clears the VMS, they must be badged (the VMS creates a sticker badge) and remain under supervision of an MCPS professional while with students.
Volunteers who will be attending field trips or supporting the school as a frequent volunteer AND will be alone with students (ie, Grade 6 Outdoor Education, overnight field trips, etc.)
In addition to the online child abuse and neglect training and the COVID attestation compliance measures, the volunteer MUST have completed the fingerprinting process.
Fingerprinting/Background check (only if they are working alone with students without supervision of an MCPS staff member or other type of volunteer service, per the Volunteers regulation)
Fingerprinting Webpage
International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme
Policies
Passport Through China - Grade 6 In-School Field Trip
On Friday, 2/3, ALL 6th grade students will participate in an in-school field trip, Passport Through China. This day of interdisciplinary exploration is designed to connect the learning that has occurred in different subject areas while celebrating different aspects of the Chinese culture.
The cost for this event is $10, which covers a performance, buffet lunch and materials associated with the day. This payment can be made online using the SchoolCash online payment system. While all 6th grade students will participate in this day, a permission slip is required in order for students to eat the buffet lunch. This has been distributed to students through their science teacher. Permission slips were due on Friday, January 20th. Permissions can still be submitted and must be given to Ms. Courtemanche or Ms. Shamim, 6th grade team leaders. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Middle Years Programme Coordinator, Liz Gall at Elizabeth_K_Gall@mcpsmd.org
Permission Slips
Parent Volunteers Requested!
We need your help! If you are interested in helping to serve our buffet lunch to our 6th graders on Friday, February 3rd, please sign up using the link below. We are also in need of one person who can help with food pick up and delivery. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FAAAB2DA2FC1-passport2
Email: Elizabeth_K_Gall@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tpDZT_i-4G4QwplbP4QU3NoUBX-ZGBiA/view
Location: 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
Phone: (301) 284-4750
Twitter: @galleliz
Mathematics, Science, Computer Science Magnet Program
Magnet Coordinator: Cherin Hershkowitz
Program Description: This program is much more than accelerated mathematics courses. Students have opportunities to work with professional scientists and mathematicians from government agencies. The program offers access to many academic competitions and the opportunity to conduct fieldwork. Throughout all of their specialized coursework, students work with an academic cohort to conduct independent inquiries using mathematics, computer science, and the scientific process to solve real-world problems. Please see this video for additional information.
Email: Cherin_O_Hershkowitz@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/clementems/upcountycenter/
Location: 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
Phone: 301-284-4744
Media Center
Media Assistant: Tina Etches
ITSS: Paul Ormsby
2022-23 MCPS/RCMS Online Services
Check out the linked list of 2022-2023 MCPS and RCMS Online Services and passwords.
Email: Ronald_C_Poker@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/clementems/mediacenter/
Location: 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
Phone: 301-284-4760
Twitter: @RCMS_LMC
Student Service Learning (SSL) Opportunities
Middle school and high school students should continue earning SSL hours towards their SSL graduation requirement by engaging in SSL opportunities during the 2022-2023 school year, including traditional in-person opportunities and select virtual/remote opportunities that follow the temporarily amended guidelines posted on the MCPS SSL webpage (www.mcps-ssl.org).
MCPS SSL Hub for Students & Families: webpage
MCPS SSL Hub for Students - NEW!
Find SSL forms, translated resources, SSL guidelines, and much more! Check out SSL forms, resources, and guidelines at https://bit.ly/SSLHubMCPS
Introduction to SSL Handout:
English | Español | 中文 | Français | tiếng Việt | 한국어 | አማርኛ | Portuguêse
Watch SSL in action: https://youtu.be/8k1QheMdl-8
Superintendent's SSL Award
Any middle school student who has submitted documentation to show the completion of the 75-hour SSL graduation requirement (for the first time in middle school) by March 30, 2023, will receive the Superintendent’s SSL Award.
Student SSL Records on Student/ParentVUE
Step-by-step directions for viewing a student’s full SSL record may be found at https://bit.ly/SSLonVUE
Upcoming Districtwide SSL Opportunities
Family Forum on Fentanyl (January 28, 2023) - Panelists will share important information for families on the dangers and prevalence of fentanyl, prevention tools, and protective factors for students and resources for treatment when needed.
- Students may earn 2 SSL hours for attending and learning this important information so that they can help to spread awareness and receive Narcan training.
- Interested students can learn more at the following link.
Click here for January 2023 SSL Opportunities
Email: Michelle_R_Palank@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/ssl/
Location: 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
Phone: (301) 284-4750
FREE TUTORING
Free Tutoring Available
Please fill in this form if you are interested.
Questions? Please contact Laura Crittenden at Laura_M_Crittenden@mcpsmd.org
High dosage tutoring: Students will receive well timed and planned instruction aligned to the curriculum, supporting any unfinished learning to prepare them for grade level or above learning in their classroom.
All students are eligible
Tutoring is available for all students. Tutors will be working to fill any gaps as a result of virtual learning.
Assistance in all subjects
We will be working hard to offer support in all subject areas for our students.
Small tutoring groups led by MCPS teachers
We are planning to have 1 on 1 or small group sessions. There will be no more than 6 students in each tutoring session. Sessions will be available before school, after school, and possibly on weekends.
Email: laura_m_crittenden@mcpsmd.org
Location: Roberto Clemente Middle School, Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD, USA
Phone: 301-284-4750
6th Grade- RCMS Class of 2025
Passport Through China Field Trip 2/3/23
On Friday, 2/3, ALL 6th grade students will participate in an in-school field trip, Passport Through China. This day of interdisciplinary exploration is designed to connect the learning that has occurred in different subject areas while celebrating different aspects of the Chinese culture.
The cost for this event is $10, which covers a performance, buffet lunch and materials associated with the day. This payment can be made online using the SchoolCash online payment system. While all 6th grade students will participate in this day, a permission slip is required in order for students to eat the buffet lunch. This has been distributed to students through their science teacher. Permission slips were due on Friday, January 20th. Permissions can still be submitted and must be given to Ms. Courtemanche or Ms. Shamim, 6th grade team leaders. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Middle Years Programme Coordinator, Liz Gall at Elizabeth_K_Gall@mcpsmd.org
Permission Slips
Parent Volunteers Requested!
We need your help! If you are interested in helping to serve our buffet lunch to our 6th graders on Friday, February 3rd, please sign up using the link below. We are also in need of one person who can help with food pick up and delivery. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FAAAB2DA2FC1-passport2
8th Grade- RCMS Class of 2023
8th Grade Newsletter
With all of the changes coming up with High School Registration and End of the Year Events, 8th grade team leaders, Mrs. Presley and Mrs. Blades, have organized the information in the form of this linked newsletter. This is a live running document, so when we get new information it is loaded to this document ASAP. Check the link as often as you wish. If you have questions please contact Mrs. Blades, Mrs. Presley, Mr. Mathis, and/or Mrs. Walter.
Northwest High School Incoming 9th Grade Parent Night 1/26/23
Northwest High School (NWHS) will host their Incoming 9th Grade Parent Meeting this Thursday, January 26, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm in the Northwest Auditorium.
- Meet members of the Northwest Leadership staff and the PTSA President.
- Hear information about high school graduation requirements as well as registration for 9th Grade courses.
- Attend Breakout Sessions following the general presentation to learn about the outstanding NWHS academic departments, Ulysses and Middle College programs, and their signature academies. Parents and guardians can also learn about life on the Northwest campus during our Athletics and Student Panel breakout sessions.
Please check the Courses/Registration quick link on the Northwest website for helpful information if you are unable to attend. The slide deck from the General Presentation will be made available on the Northwest website, as well. Email Mr. Jake Lee, Assistant Principal or Ms. Jodi Edmunds, Resource Counselor with any questions.
Ulysses Program Application Now Open-Northwest Students ONLY
The Ulysses Program Application window for the Northwest High School Class of 2027 opened on Monday, December 5, 2022. To apply for the Ulysses Program, students must live in the Northwest High School cluster. Current 8th graders who are accepted into the Ulysses Program will be enrolled in the four-year program. Each applicant is responsible for submitting a complete and accurate online application by February 21, 2023.
For more detailed information on the program please visit their website: https://sites.google.com/mcpsmd.net/ulysses/home
Athletics & Extracurricular Activities
Girls' Basketball Players- Grades 6-8
RCMS is excited to have just started a new after school Girls Basketball program starting next week. This program is designed for all abilities and all grade levels. The afterschool meetings will focus on building basketball skills in a positive and supportive environment. The sessions will be run by Coach Cato, one of our teachers with a background in coaching and building girls basketball.
When: Most Wednesdays and Thursdays from Jan 11 – Feb 23
Times: Directly after school till 4:30. Please make sure you have a ride home at 4:30. The activity bus will not be running till January 30 but it leaves school at 5:30, so please plan accordingly. If you are taking the activity bus you will need to register for EBB from 4:30-5:30 so that your student can be accounted for. Please have your child ask about EBB registration in the main office.
YES, I WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE - If interested please fill out the google form located here. We do ask for a medical card filled out with basic guardian/parent contact info, and doctor information, in case there is an safety or medical issue. This particular program does not need a doctor signature.
If you have any questions please reach out to Dave Hudson (Athletics Coordinator) or Scott Siburt (Intramural Director)
SOCCER COACHES:
RCMS is hiring a Girls Soccer Coach for the Spring 2023 season.
If you are a soccer coach and interested in working with our Athletics program this upcoming season please reach out to the Athletic Coordinator, Dave Hudson (david.hudson@mcpsmd.net)
Email: david.hudson@mcpsmd.net
Location: Roberto Clemente Middle School, Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD, USA
Phone: 301-284-4750
SUPPORT ROBERTO CLEMENTE MIDDLE SCHOOL
RCMS PTSA Amazon Smile
Harris Teeter Together in Education Program
RCMS joined Harris Teeter’s Together in Education program to help raise funds for our school. It’s easy and it’s FREE! Simply give the cashier our code, 7110, and your VIC card when you check out and your card will be linked for the entire school year. That’s it!
You only have to link your VIC card once each school year. Once your card is linked, RCMS
will receive a percentage of your Harris Teeter brand (Harris Teeter, H.T. Traders, Harris Teeter Organics, HT Farmers Market and purchases in the HT Pharmacy) purchases credited back to our account.
Parents and friends of RCMS can link two ways:
- Ask the cashier at checkout or at the customer service desk to link your VIC card
- Link your VIC card online at www.harristeeter.com
This program does not interfere with your VIC savings or cost you any money! Don’t forget to link your VIC card to our account code next time you are shopping at Harris Teeter.
Resources
6th Grade Team page- myMCPS Classroom Page
Academic Integrity Policy: Policy
Back to School Night Website: Website
Bus Route Information Dashboard: Webpage
Calendar- 2022-2023 Traditional School Year
Class Schedule for 2022-2023 School Year
Free and Reduced-Price Meals Application: Tutorials- English & Spanish
Guidelines for Student Gender Identity 2022-2023: English | Spanish | French | Chinese Vietnamese | Korean | Amharic | Portuguese
Guidelines for Respecting Religious Diversity 2022-2023: English |Spanish| French| Chinese| Vietnamese| Korean| Amharic
Maryland MyIR: Webpage | Support Guide
Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line: 1-833-632-7233| Safe Schools Web Form| Website
SchoolCash Online: https://mcpsmd.schoolcashonline.com/
Student Code of Conduct in MCPS 2022-2023: English | Spanish | French | Chinese Vietnamese | Korean | Amharic | Portuguese
Student Service Learning (SSL) Activity Verification- MCPS Form 560-51
Student SSL Records on Student/ParentVUE- Step-by-Step Directions
Student's Guide to Rights and Responsibilities in MCPS 2022-2023: English | Spanish| French| Chinese| Vietnamese| Korean| Amharic | Portuguese
Synergy ParentVUE/StudentVUE| Support Website| Support Guide- English| Spanish| Chinese| French| Vietnamese| Korean| Amharic
Roberto Clemente Middle School
Email: Yvonne_Sanya@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/clementems/
Location: 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
Phone: (301) 284-4750
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clementeptsa
Twitter: @RCMSHawks