The Roar of the Mountain Lions

Monterey Elementary - June 2025

Principal's Message

Dear Students, Families, and Staff,

As I prepare to close this chapter of my journey, I find myself filled with gratitude, pride, and a touch of nostalgia. Serving as the principal of this incredible school has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Each day spent in our hallways, classrooms, and playgrounds has been a reminder of the joy and purpose found in nurturing young minds and hearts.

To our students: You are the reason we do what we do. Your curiosity, kindness, and resilience have inspired me every single day. Never stop asking questions, dreaming big, and believing in yourselves.

To our families: Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your unwavering support. Together, we’ve built a community rooted in respect, compassion, and a shared commitment to our children’s success.

To our staff: You are the heart of this school. Your dedication, creativity, and love for learning have made this a place where students thrive. I am endlessly proud of the work we’ve done together and the lives we’ve touched.

Though I may be stepping away from my role, I will always carry the spirit of this school with me. I leave with a full heart, confident that the future is bright and that this community will continue to grow and flourish. Always remember, if no one has told you today, know you are loved at Monterey.

With deepest appreciation and warmest wishes,

Morgan Strother

STAR Summer Program

The STAR (Students Thriving and Rising) summer program is a four-week summer learning opportunity for rising 3rd through 8th grade students. If your child was invited to this program, please see the STAR schedule below:

STAR Schedule

Dates: June 16 to July 17 Mondays through Thursdays

No classes on June 19 due to the holiday
No classes during the week of June 30-July 4

Student Hours:

Elementary: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Locations:

Round Hill Elementary School will host students who attend Round Hill, Fairview, Lincoln Terrace, Monterey, Preston Park, RAMS, and Westside.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day. Transportation will be provided, and bus routes will be posted here once available.

Summer Reading Program

RCPS annual Summer Reading Program runs every summer for six weeks. It is generously sponsored by Cox.

Every student who completes the Summer Reading Program and submits a reading log will receive a free book and a gift card! Students will also be entered into a drawing to win special prizes!

Click HERE for more information and to download the reading log.

ParentVue

We are pleased to share that, in addition to being able to view your student’s attendance, grades, and report cards, you can conveniently access several important academic reports for your child through ParentVUE. These reports include SOL assessment results, MAP Growth assessment results, and VALLSS (grades K-3).

To view these reports, scan the QR code below using your smartphone or tablet, or visit www.rcps.info. This will direct you to the documents section of ParentVUE, where you can view and download the report.

Message From the PTA

As we wrap up another incredible school year, the PTA would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, enthusiasm, and involvement throughout the year. Whether you volunteered your time, donated resources, attended events, or simply cheered us on from afar, your contributions made a meaningful difference in our school community.

Together, we’ve celebrated milestones, supported our amazing teachers and staff, and created lasting memories for our students. None of this would have been possible without your partnership and dedication.

As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, we invite you to consider getting more involved with the PTA. Whether you have a little time or a lot, your help is always welcome and appreciated. If you're interested in volunteering or learning more about how you can contribute, please reach out to us at afulton@rcps.info.

Thank you again for being such an important part of our school family. We wish you a joyful, restful summer and look forward to another fantastic year ahead!

With gratitude,
Monterey Elementary PTA