The Paw Print

January 25: 3rd MP begins

January 29: Professional Day; No School for Students

February 3: Report Cards available on HAC

Please take some time to review Dr. Smith's letter sent to families on Friday, January 22, 2021. I would also encourage you to tune in or watch the recording of the BOE meeting scheduled for Wednesday, January 27, at 6:00 PM.

SMCPS Communications

LTR_012221Return_Spr2021.pdf

LTR_012221Return_Spr2021_espanol.pdf

As we approach the beginning of a new marking period, parents and guardians have the ability to change their student's status (virtual or hybrid). Although all students are currently virtual, we are hopeful that students will be able to return to the building at some point this school year. If you plan to change your child's original selection (virtual or hybrid) please contact your child's assistant principal or counselor.

6th Grade Assistant Principal: Kelly Kent kakent@smcps.org

6th Grade Counselor: Elizabeth Ripple ejripple@smcps.org

7th Grade Assistant Principal: James Peeler jmpeeler@smcps.org

7th Grade Counselor: Courtney Towne cltowne@smcps.org

8th Grade Assistant Principal: Marissa Frye mmfrye@smcps.org

8th Grade Counselor: Cara Barger cdbarger@smcps.org

Access Code for Students and Parents

JTJN-VRP3-SWR8F

Parents: Please complete the form granting your child permission to read YA Permission Form:https://forms.gle/aWkqG49UN8W3W1Xi8

On Wednesday, January 27 distribution will include food for 3 days to accommodate the remainder of the week (Friday, January 29 schools are closed to students). Beginning in February, MBMS will be distributing meals for each weekend with Friday's food pickup.

The following informaiton is provided for parents/students who may be experienceing problems with student issued computers or computer applicaitons.

HelpDesk Procedure

Parents and students should contact the SMCPS HelpDesk through the HelpDesk phone number or the HelpDesk email to open a ticket for any issues they have with their SMCPS device or applications.

• Phone Number: (301) 710-5935 Option 1
• Email Address: helpdesk@smcps.org
• Technical Support Hours: Monday - Friday | 7 AM to 4 PM

Parent tips for virtual learning

• Encourage your child to turn their video camera on

• Set up a spot for virtual learning

• Free from distractions

• Contains a plug for charging

• Materials for school are accessible

• Camera is turned on so that the teacher can assess engagement.

• Take advantage of help offered

• Stay on the google meet while completing the assignment

• Attend individual and/or small group help sessions with the teacher

• Send an email or google meet chat to the teacher asking for help

• Take quick breaks when needed or time allows

• Get up and eat a snack and get a drink

• Walk outside to check the mail.

• Stretch or quick exercise

• Review progress on schoology

• Log on together in the evenings to be sure work was submitted

• Check grades

• See what is upcoming

• Make a list of assignments due or print the weekly agendas from teachers

The following link will provide you with specific state wide and regional data.

A chart is also provided for your reference that reflects the number of identified COVID-19 positive cases in SMCPS by school by week.

Covid Data