Dear Parents and Guardians,

Spring break offers a much-needed pause, a chance to step away from routines and recharge both body and mind. Whether spent relaxing at home or exploring new places, it’s a time to reconnect—with ourselves, with others, and with what brings us joy. We would like to wish everyone a very happy and restful spring break. School will reopen Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Fifth Grade Field Trip to Washington D.C.:

On Friday, April 11, 2025, Fifth Grade students will be taking a field trip to tour The National Mall to visit monuments, museums and stroll by the White House and Capitol Building. 5th Grade students are to be at EES no later than 7:45 AM as the busses will be leaving promptly at 8:00 AM.

Students are expected to bring a bagged lunch with them as they will be eating a picnic lunch in Washington D.C.. It is suggested students pack their lunch into drawstring bags to carry. Students should also wear school/weather appropriate clothes and dress appropriately for lots of walking!

Parents should be at school to pick their child up by 4:45 PM. Students will be returning by 5:00 PM.

National Assistant Principal's Week:

National Assistant Principals Week is a time to honor the dedication, leadership, and heart assistant principals bring to our schools every day. They are the steady hands behind the scenes, ensuring students feel safe, supported, and seen. From guiding teachers to building strong relationships with families, their impact reaches every corner of the school community. Their ability to lead with compassion and courage—especially in challenging moments—makes a lasting difference. This week, we celebrate Ms. Wright's & Mr. Swann's unwavering commitment and thank them for the vital role they play in ensuring Elkridge Elementary is a great school. THANK YOU Ms. Wright and Mr. Swann!

MESA Matters:
This past weekend, our talented Elkridge Elementary School MESA Teams competed in the HCPSS Regional MESA Competition—and what a celebration of student innovation it was! Our students brought their visions to life through original, creative, and carefully engineered projects that impressed judges and audiences alike. Their passion, teamwork, and problem-solving were on full display, and we’re proud to share that one of our teams will go on to represent EES at the Maryland State MESA Competition! 🎉

While our students certainly shined, we must also take a moment to honor the incredible educators behind the scenes whose guidance and belief in their students helped bring these projects to life:

Mrs. Mary Jones, Ms. Jalyn Richmond, and Ms. Nina Cliff.

These three dedicated staff members poured their time, energy, and hearts into mentoring our students—not just as competitors, but as young engineers, designers, and critical thinkers. They encouraged curiosity, supported resilience, and celebrated every step of the creative process, ensuring that each student had the opportunity to thrive. Their commitment transformed this experience into something truly meaningful for our learners.

The success of our teams is not only a win for our school, but a powerful reflection of what’s possible when educators inspire, empower, and uplift students to take ownership of their learning. We extend our deepest gratitude and congratulations to Mrs. Jones, Ms. Richmond, and Ms. Cliff for their outstanding work and leadership.

Please join us in celebrating both our students and these extraordinary staff members. Together, they’ve shown what excellence, creativity, and collaboration can achieve.

Community Cleanup (HONORABLE MENTION):

Simon C., Sam H., Josh F. and Aaradh G.

Storybook Theme Park (2nd PLACE):

Axton C., Jorddan S., Luke H., Yasir I.

Wearable Technology (2nd PLACE):

Noelle A., Natalie A., Harper P., Teagan M.

Planetary Lander (1st PLACE):

Representing Elkridge Elementary School at the State MESA Championship in MAY.

Aarav S., Shashwat D., Joseph S., Elijah P.

Policy 8080: Personal Electronic Device Survey:

On March 3, 2025, HCPSS implemented adjustments to Board of Education Policy 8080 Responsible Use of Technology, Digital Tools, and Social Media; specifically, guidelines pertaining to student use of personal devices during the school day.

Per the updated Board policy, all students must keep personal technology devices away and silenced, and ensure they are not a distraction during the student day. Exceptions include smart watches, laptops in high school, and when allowed as defined in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, or Health Plan. Policy violations result in the confiscation of the personal technology device. More information on the policy adjustments is available online.

HCPSS students, staff, parents/guardians and family members are encouraged to provide input on implementation, and any impact they may have seen as a result. Please complete a brief online survey. The survey will close on Wednesday, April 16.

Columbia Art Show:

Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM will be the opening of the Columbia Mall Art Show. Elkridge Elementary will be showcasing 35 pieces from young artists from our school. Please see below for additional information and congratulations to all of our participants representing Elkridge Elementary!

April is School Library Month:

School libraries are vital hubs of learning, imagination, and discovery that support students' academic and personal growth. They provide access to diverse books and resources that help children develop critical thinking and a lifelong love of reading. Fostering a love of reading at a young age builds vocabulary, curiosity, empathy, and a strong foundation for future learning. During School Library Month, we celebrate the essential role school libraries and librarians play in creating equitable learning environments. It’s a time to recognize how these spaces ignite passion, creativity, and confidence in every student who walks through their doors.

Student Restrooms:

Recently Elkridge Elementary has been experiencing an uptick in student bathroom vandalization. Our custodial staff works very hard to ensure that the student bathrooms are clean and sanitary for student use daily. We have noticed writing on the walls, destroyed toilet paper dispensers, and trash thrown all over the restroom floors. While we understand that students need to use the restroom, we also need to ensure that our students use the facilities quickly. Please have a conversation with your child at home about proper restroom usage. Thank you for your support!

Lunch Update:

Please be aware of the changes that Howard County Public School System implemented for parents to visit their child during their lunch times. These changes have gone into effect.

1. Go to the HCPSS Web site to review information about the school system volunteer process.
   
   
2. Review the “Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Procedures Online Training” PowerPoint.
   Sign the Certificate of Completion for the “Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Procedures Online Training” form and provide it to the school when signing in.
   
   
3. Review the "Confidentiality Training for Volunteers" PowerPoint
   
   
4. ​​​​​​​Sign the Confidentiality Agreement and provide it to the school when signing in.
   Sign in at the front office using the Lobby Guard sign-in system (a valid photo I.D. must be provided). Before entering the cafeteria, please sign in at the front office to obtain a visitors pass.

Recess Reminders:

Exhibiting safe behaviors at recess helps ensure that all students can enjoy a fun and injury-free break during the school day. We encourage families to support these efforts by having regular conversations at home about making kind, respectful, and responsible choices while playing. Remind your child that physical aggression, rough play, and inappropriate language are not allowed at recess and can result in consequences. By working together, we can help students understand the importance of treating others with care and using equipment appropriately. Your partnership in reinforcing these expectations at home makes a big difference in creating a safe and positive environment for everyone.

2025-2026 School Registration:

If you have a child who is approaching Kindergarten age or will be attending Howard County Public Schools for the first time in Fall 2025, please refer to the HCPSS Enrollment page for valuable information, which can be found here.

Safety Reminders:

Please remember the importance of safety habits while on HCPSS Property. Please remember the following when you are on HCPSS Property:

• Drive slowly (10 mph is recommended) to ensure that in the event something unexpected happens, you have enough time to react.
• Please refrain from (handheld) cell phone use and texting while in a moving vehicle.
• Please ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts to ensure their safety.
• Animals, including the walking of dogs, are also prohibited on school system property during arrival, dismissal, recess, and other HCPSS-sponsored outdoor activities. Shared campus hours are 7:50 AM – 3:55 PM, Monday – Friday.
  

🎉 Teacher Appreciation Week: May 5-9! 🎉

Calling all parents, grandparents, guardians, and supporters of EES! The EES PTA is excited to host a special Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate our amazing educators.

We need your help to make this week extra special! Whether you can assist with event planning or day-of support, every contribution makes a difference.

💌 Interested in helping? Reach out to us at officers@eespta.com to get involved. Let’s show our teachers how much they mean to us! ❤️

PTA Elections:

PTA is looking for individuals who would be interested in serving on the PTA for the next school year. If you are interested in serving as president, vice president, secretary or treasurer, please complete the form that can be found here. The new executive board will be elected for the upcoming two year term. WE CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE NOMINEES FOR ALL REQUIRED POSITIONS! If the PTA does not have a president, treasurer, and secretary, it will be disbanded and all funds sent to Free State. This would be a significant loss for our students here at Elkridge Elementary.

Have a great week!

Sincerely,

Kelley Powell, Principal

LaShonne Wright, Assistant Principal

Jonathan Swann, Assistant Principal

The MCAP (Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program) is an important opportunity for students to show what they’ve learned and how well they are meeting grade-level standards. Doing their best on the MCAP helps teachers understand each student’s progress and identify areas where additional support might be needed. It also provides valuable information to schools and districts for improving instruction and academic programs. Encouraging your child to take the assessment seriously and give their best effort shows pride in their learning and helps build confidence. With a positive mindset, preparation, and support from both school and home, students can approach the MCAP with focus and determination.

Test Taking Tips and Reminders:
As we begin the testing season, please remind your children of the following:

• Please try to have students here and on time on testing days so they do not need to be pulled out of class instruction for make-up sessions.
• Please avoid coming to sign students out early during testing sessions. Once a student leaves, they are not about to restart the test session.
• Personal electronic devices (cell phones, iPads, smart watches, etc.) are not permitted in the testing areas.
• Routine is important when calming any nerves when it comes to testing. Keeping to normal routines both at home and at school helps the students do their best.
• Students need plenty of sleep to maintain the stamina needed to do their best.

Please see your child's schedule below. Additional and more specific information will be provided by classroom teachers.

📚 Book Donations Needed for Literacy Events!📚

We're collecting new or gently used books to support our upcoming literacy events, including our exciting Reading Night in April! If you have books to donate, please drop them off at school in bags or boxes labeled with either Mrs. Cooke or Mrs. Barr's name. Your generous contributions will help foster a love for reading in our community. Thank you for your support! 📖✨

Arrival & Dismissal Reminders:

Student Arrival and Breakfast:

Students will be admitted into the building between 9:10 and 9:25 AM. Breakfast service will end promptly at 9:30 AM. Please ensure students arrive on time, especially if they plan to eat breakfast, as the kitchen doors will close at 9:30 AM.

Dismissal:

Student dismissal begins promptly at 3:55 and is completed by 4:15. Recently, we have noticed an increase in students waiting to be picked up at 4:30 and beyond. Late pickups can disrupt school operations and create unnecessary delays for staff and administration. We kindly ask for your cooperation in ensuring students are picked up on time. Thank you for helping us keep our dismissal process efficient and ensuring the safety of all our students. Please call the front office by 2:30PM if you are changing the way your child is being picked up from school. Also, only students who are car riders are dismissed from the gym. If you are walking up to meet your child at the car rider door, you will need to go to the main office to pick them up.

The Howard County Public School System welcomes visitors to our schools. To limit interruptions and distractions to teaching and learning, and to maximize safety for all:

• Anyone wishing to visit a school is asked to contact school administration or the appropriate staff member to establish a convenient time for both the visitor and the school.
• The school will arrange for an escort for the visitor.
• To avoid interrupting instruction, no students are allowed to shadow HCPSS students.
• Understandably, interactions between visitors and school staff and students will be limited.
• If a follow-up meeting with school staff is desired, the visitor will schedule it for a mutually convenient time.
  
  

Safety Protocols for Visitors

Please be aware of the following procedures for any visitor to a school/office:

• The front door is the only entrance point for all visitors.
• Please ring the bell and look into the camera.
• Be prepared to state your name and purpose for visiting.
• All visitors must walk directly into the front office with a valid photo I.D. and sign in using our LobbyGuard system.
• A visitor’s sticker will be given to visitors following the above procedures and must be worn and prominently visible.
• Any visitor in the school without a visitor sticker will be escorted directly to the front office by a staff member.
  
  

In some cases, it may be more convenient for a prospective visitor to acquire information in other ways. The following may be helpful:

• Information about the Howard County Public School System is available on the HCPSS website and the HCPSS News site.
• Visit our Schools page to find school locators (attendance areas), school profiles, bus stops and much more.

We thoroughly enjoy when parents come in to enjoy lunch with their child. We ask that you remember the following when visiting:

1. Go to the HCPSS Web site to review information about the school system volunteer process.
   
   
2. Review the “Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Procedures Online Training” PowerPoint.
   Sign the Certificate of Completion for the “Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Procedures Online Training” form and provide it to the school when signing in.
   
   
3. Review the "Confidentiality Training for Volunteers" PowerPoint
   
   
4. ​​​​​​​Sign the Confidentiality Agreement and provide it to the school when signing in.
   Sign in at the front office using the Lobby Guard sign-in system (a valid photo I.D. must be provided). Before entering the cafeteria, please sign in at the front office to obtain a visitors pass.
   
   
5. Food may not be shared with other students in the cafeteria. Food that is brought in from outside sources (fast food lunch, cupcakes, etc. etc.) cannot be guaranteed to be allergen free. Therefore, to protect students, any food that is brought into the cafeteria may only be shared with the child you are visiting.
   
   
6. When dining with your child, please sit at a table that is either empty, or that has a few students at it.
   
   
7. When having lunch with your child, please refrain from interacting with any other children. If you need assistance, please request to speak with an administrator before you attend lunch.
   
   
8. If you choose to eat a school lunch with your child, you may not use your child's account to purchase a lunch for yourself. Adult lunches are $4.50, payable in cash (preferably exact change) at the time of purchase.
   
   
9. Elkridge Elementary does not accept student lunches from services such as Door Dash and Uber Eats. If you are bringing outside lunch for your children, please bring lunch to them around their lunch time.

As a general reminder for our students who sit at the allergy table, it is important that the same student(s) should sit at this table everyday. If two friends are going to sit at the table with a friend who has a peanut allergy, it should be the same students. If one student brings lunch that day they will not be able to sit at the allergy/peanut table that day.

If you have concerns about your child's development - whether it's their speech, motor skills, social skills or learning - it's important to act now. Waiting until the summer for a referral can delay crucial support that your child may need before starting kindergarten.

Contact us today to schedule a screening. Let's work together to ensure your child has the best possible start in kindergarten!

Call 410-313-7046 or email ChildFind@hcpss.org

The After School Belonging Group will be meeting on the following days after school. Please reach out to Ms. Harmon for additional details.

April 22, 2025

May 20, 2025

This is just a reminder that we do not have MESA meetings after school until the last week of April.

April 28th is the 5th grade MESA end of year gathering (4:00 - 5:30pm)

April 29th is the 3rd grade MESA end of year gathering (4:00 - 5:30pm)

April 30th is the 4th grade MESA end of year gathering (4:00 - 5:30pm)

We look forward to seeing everyone on those dates. Families are welcome to contribute snacks (individually packaged) for the gatherings.

Looking for summer camps for your musician? Check out this list of opportunities for students, grades K-12, however the main focus is for students in grades 3-12. There is also a list of private music teachers if you are interested in starting lessons for your child.

Click here for the list: 2025 SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS We hope your child will continue making music this summer!

On Saturday, April 26 in the Wilde Lake Village Center Parking Lot near the Swim Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medication, EpiPens and other sharps, vitamins, pet meds, vape devices, inhalers, and more! Need student, adult, and medically-trained adult volunteers. Giving away 100 medication lockboxes.

For more information: https://hcdrugfree.org/drug-take-back-day-1/

To sign up to volunteer: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/4-26-25TakeBack