Return to Learn Staff Update
October 8, 2020
From the Superintendent
WCPS staff,
I appreciate all of your efforts as we prepare for, what I refer to, our third first day of school as we enter Stage 3 of our Return to Learn Plan and welcome more students back to classrooms on Monday, October 12, 2020.
As with the other “first days” of school this year, we can anticipate the opening of Stage 3 will look very different from our traditional first day. We know there will be glitches and some hiccups along the way, but as you have already demonstrated, you will persevere and overcome those moments for the benefit of our students.
I sincerely thank all of you - teachers, ESP, and administrators - for all you have done to support our students in person and online. I appreciate you re-arranging your plans, your classrooms, and your work routines so we can make the necessary transitions to bring more students back to school. Researchers are already predicting the limitations of schools through the pandemic will have lasting effects on children for years to come. I am fortunate to be in our schools regularly to see the positive differences you are making in the lives of children each day despite the challenges everyone is facing.
One day to the next, I feel like I’m on a roller coaster full of unexpected twists and turns. It’s ok if you feel the same. As essential personnel, I encourage you to remember the passion for and importance of your work. In the midst of uncertainty, know that the relationships you hold with your students and your colleagues are powerful motivators to keep us all moving forward and making a difference in the lives of students every day.
Thank you for all you do,
Boyd
Tune in Tonight for Maryland Teacher of the Year!
WCPS is celebrating Christine Hurley, Boonsboro Middle School’s library media specialist and Washington County’s Teacher of the Year! Christine is one of seven finalists across the state in the running to become Maryland Teacher of the Year.
Maryland Public Television has produced a Maryland Teacher of the Year announcement program that airs TONIGHT at 8:00 p.m., where this year’s state Teacher of the Year winner will be announced.
Watch on MPT2 in Maryland, Southern Pennsylvania, and the Washington area.
Comcast 799 - Comcast 478 - Verizon Fios
Over the air (using an antenna) or see local listings: Frederick 62.2, Hagerstown 31.2
You can also watch the program streaming on MPT2’s YouTube channel.
We are so honored to have Christine represent all teachers in Washington County, and we wish her the best of luck tonight!
Share your well wishes to Christine by using #WCPSTOY2020 on social media!
Professional Day for Teachers - November 3
The Supervisor-led half day will be conducted virtually. For this professional day, teachers are welcome to work from an alternate location or from the school setting. Professional development will be offered in the morning from 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. More information regarding these sessions will be coming from supervisors in the near future. Per the negotiated agreement, teachers will have three hours in the afternoon for grading.
Elementary School Supply Kits
WCPS continues to invest in technology, PPE, and other resources to support classroom instruction and safety. To avoid children sharing common materials, every elementary child attending school in person will be provided with their own school supply box. These include pencils, art markers and dry erase markers, scissors, crayons, glue sticks, and highlighters.
Teachers can expect these materials to arrive in their classrooms as early as this Monday. About 11,000 boxes are being filled to support the future return of all elementary students.
Thank you to staff who have volunteered to assemble the supplies!
Free Flu Shot
As a reminder, WCPS staff who would like to receive a free flu shot at or near their work site this year should express their interest to ensure we have enough supply of the vaccine and to develop a schedule. Employees need to complete a short Google Form by the close of business tomorrow, Friday, October 9.
Health and Safety Protocols
As the largest employer in Washington County, and due to the nature of our work, WCPS has had, and will continue to have, positive COVID-19 cases. WCPS is committed to preventing the spread of the virus in our schools. Wear your mask, wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer as appropriate, and be constantly aware of your physical distancing. If you’re feeling sick, please stay home.