Bulldog Bulletin

We hope this message finds you well. We wanted to remind everyone that there will be no school on Monday, February 17th, in observance of Presidents' Day. Enjoy the long weekend and take some time to learn about the important contributions of our nation's presidents!

Fun Fact: Did you know that Presidents' Day was originally established in 1879 to celebrate George Washington's birthday? Over time, it has evolved to honor all U.S. presidents!

Additionally, as the temperatures are changing, please make sure your children are dressed in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. It's also a good idea to pack extra clothes in their backpacks in case they need to change.

We look forward to seeing everyone back at school on Tuesday!

This month, we celebrate the importance of school buses and the dedicated professionals who ensure our children travel safely to and from school each day. Love the Bus Month is a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for our bus drivers and the vital role they play in our education system.

Ways to Celebrate:

• Thank a Bus Driver: Encourage your children to thank their bus drivers with a simple "thank you" or a handmade card.
• Share Stories: Share positive stories about your experiences with school buses and bus drivers on social media using the hashtag #LoveTheBus.

Why It Matters:

• Safety: School buses are designed with numerous safety features to protect students.
• Community: The yellow school bus is a symbol of community, safety, and opportunity.
• Recognition: This month is about recognizing the everyday heroes who drive our children safely to school.

Thank you to our PTO and students who helped show appreciation for our bus drivers!!

To promote a healthy school environment, screening for symptoms of infectious illness such as COVID, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and gastrointestinal infections prior to coming to school continues to be the best way to prevent spread of communicable illness in the school setting. Students, staff, and visitors should not enter if they are experiencing symptoms related to infectious illness.

Remember to encourage your children to wash their hands frequently to help prevent the spread of germs.

Tips for staying healthy:

• Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.
• Ensure your child gets plenty of rest.

For any questions, please reach out to Nurse Michelle.

Incoming kindergarten students must be enrolled in CCPS prior to submitting a transfer request. Transfer requests for grades 1-12 that are not submitted by February 15 may not be honored due to lack of space at the desired school or grade.

If you are anticipating making a transfer request for your student(s) for the upcoming school year, please log on to ScribOrder to submit a transfer application. You will be required to create (or update) your account to complete an application.

From February 18-28, our 2nd grade students, along with any new students to Calvert County Public Schools who haven't taken the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test), will undergo assessment. The CogAT evaluates reasoning skills through a variety of verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal questions and is part of the entrance criteria for our gifted programs.

For any inquiries, please reach out to Ms. Barnes.

Are you or someone in your household in the Military? What can we do to support your educational journey? Have you filled out our survey to help identify our Military Connected Families? We value your opinion and can't wait to celebrate your child in April for the Month of the Military Child.

Like you, we want your child to thrive. That’s why we offer a variety of programs and resources designed to empower you and give your child the tools they need to succeed, from kindergarten to graduation and beyond.

Visit this source for more information For Families - Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®)

We are accepting signups for spring chorus. Rehearsals will be held on C instructional days. There is one mandatory concert for all students on April 25th @6:00pm.

Any questions please contact Ms. Musgrove musgrovem@calvertnet.k12.md.us

During the month of February, we are focusing on RESPONSIBILITY. We are accountable for our actions.

Families are encouraged to become active participants in their child’s education. Throughout the school year, many opportunities are provided for family participation and involvement. All adults attending for special school-based events where adults will be interacting with the students that occur within the school day MUST be APPROVED VOLUNTEERS. This is to ensure the safety of all students since the adults will be within the school and engaging with all students within a classroom.

If you are visiting the school for business purposes such as, register, withdrawal, drop off medication, meet with a teacher for a conference, where you will not interact with the student population, you are not required to be an approved volunteer, but must be scanned through Raptor to ensure safety of all students and staff as a Visitor. You will be accompanied by a staff member during your time in the school.

Both Volunteers and Visitors are to report to the front office at the building you are visiting, be prepared to sign in with the Raptor registration system and wear a badge while on school grounds. During the instructional day, we request your support in fulfilling our responsibility to maintain a safe environment which is focused on learning and minimizes distractions. Classroom visits are to be scheduled in accordance with the CCPS visitation policy.

Calvert County Public Schools uses Raptor for visitors and volunteers to sign in and sign out. All volunteers will need to review the volunteer handbook and watch the volunteer training video before completing an Online Volunteer Application. Volunteers must be approved before they may begin service as a volunteer in any school buildings. Please note, the procedures for policy 8123 states that all volunteers must be at least twenty-one years of age unless he/she is the parent of a child in school.

The Online Volunteer Application works best on a laptop or desktop computer. Completing an application on a mobile device will not properly submit and could cause an issue with your application being received and/or approved.

1. Read the volunteer handbook.
2. Watch the volunteer training video below.
3. Complete the online application using a laptop or desktop computer.

It’s almost time for the 12th Annual Science and Engineering EXPO! This family event is free and open to the public. The EXPO will showcase CCPS science, engineering, Career Technology Education programs and STEM organizations from the local community. Exhibits will be engaging for both children and adults, designed to spark interest in STEM classes and careers. The hands-on activities will include science experiments, computer coding, biomedical experiments, robots, math games, catapults, and much more for the entire family to explore.

Science and Engineering EXPO

Calvert High School

February 22, 2025

11:00am – 3:00pm

Greetings families: The Calvert County Special Education Citizens' Advisory Committee (SECAC) invites parents and guardians to nominate the CCPS staff who have made a difference in the life of your child with an IFSP, IEP or 504 accommodation plan in the 2024-2025 school year. This nomination can be an individual staff member or a team of up to 5 people. Nominations can be submitted online, by mail, or drop-off and are due Friday, February 28, 2025. Please help Calvert SECAC recognize all the good that happens every day in classrooms across Calvert.

Begin your nomination by clicking the following link https://forms.office.com/r/fv8ntBpV9r

You may also download the attached nomination form.

For more information, please visit https://www.calvertnet.k12.md.us/secac.

Following the Governor’s Work Zone Safety Work Group Recommendations to improve Work Zone Safety in Maryland, the MSDE was identified in the final report with the following assignment. “Mascot for Work Zone Safety Campaign: In partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education, the state should develop a safety mascot with student involvement”.

This will allow young Marylanders to associate work zones with the “slow down” message the mascot will deliver. In collaboration with MDOT we have put together a poster contest like our school bus poster contest. The goal is to push work zone safety and encourage students across the state to take part in art and design ideas for MDOTs’ safety message.

Questions regarding the contest can be directed to Gabriel Rose, State Director for Pupil Transportation and Emergency Management at gabriel.rose1@maryland.gov.

Please take a moment to review the following webpage which outlines the protocols for weather-related school closings, delayed openings, and early dismissals

As part of our commitment to create an optimal learning environment for all students, Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) is implementing a new policy regarding cell phone and smartwatch use. We kindly request your support with reinforcing student expectations and helping to establish classroom and school environments that promote optimal learning.

Updates In Cell Phone/Smartwatch Use

We understand that cell phones are an important part of daily life for many students and their families. However, we believe that this policy will help students stay focused on their learning and reduce the potential for distractions.

Effective the first day of school, students are not permitted to use cell phones or smartwatches during the school day. This policy is designed to minimize distractions and promote a more focused and engaging educational experience.

Key Points of the Policy:

1. Students may bring cellular phones/smartwatches to school but are not permitted to bring in other electronic or communication devices (such as personal laptops).
2. Once school begins, the device must be powered completely off (not on vibrate or silent mode) and must remain in a non-visible, secure location. There are exceptions for administratively approved times for students in grades 9 – 12 only to use their cell phone/smartwatch.
3. If there is an emergency, parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the school’s main office. All cell phone/smartwatch guidelines, expectations, and discipline consequences apply even if communicating with parents/guardians.
4. Students may use their phone/smartwatch on the bus or school-chartered vehicle, but it must not be disruptive or cause a distraction to the driver. Sound must only be audible through headphones.
5. Camera/video use, and phone conversations are prohibited at all times.
6. Students found using cell phones during school hours are subject to disciplinary consequences, including having their devices confiscated and returned at the end of the day. Repeated violations may result in further disciplinary action.

There are specific guidelines for each student level (elementary, middle, and high) in the ‘Electronic and Communication Devices’ section of the 2024 -2025 Students’ Rights, Responsibilities, and Code of Conduct. Please read this document which is available on the CCPS website Code of Conduct - Calvert County Public School District (calvertnet.k12.md.us).

We are excited about the positive impact these changes will have on student outcomes, specifically with promoting a positive, supportive, safe, and welcoming school environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. Research shows that implementing a no cell phone policy in schools can offer several benefits:

1. Improved Academic Performance: Without the distraction of cell phones, students can focus better on their studies, leading to improved academic performance12.
2. Reduced Cyberbullying: Limiting cell phone use can help reduce incidents of cyberbullying, as students have fewer opportunities to engage in harmful online behavior during school hours23.
3. Enhanced Social Interaction: Without cell phones, students are more likely to engage in face-to-face interactions, fostering better social skills and stronger relationships with their peers2.
4. Increased Attention and Engagement: Students are more likely to participate actively in class discussions and activities when they are not distracted by their phones13.
5. Better Mental Health: Reducing screen time can help alleviate issues related to social media use, such as anxiety and depression, contributing to better overall mental health23.
6. Decreased Disruptions: A no cell phone policy can lead to fewer disruptions in the classroom, creating a more conducive learning environment14.

We are confident that, with your support, CCPS students will follow expectations and contribute to a more focused, engaging, and supportive educational experience for all. Thank you for your partnership with successful implementation of the new cell phone/smartwatch policy.

To report an absence electronically, please email BAESAttendance@calvertnet.k12.md.us

Please make sure that all notes include student first and last name, dates of absences, and reason for absences.

Regular attendance at school is vital to your child’s educational development. School attendance laws in the State of Maryland require that children attend school regularly; students absent 10% or more of the total number of enrollment days are considered to have chronic absenteeism. In accordance with CCPS Students’ Rights & Responsibilities Attendance Policy, schools will monitor student attendance, collaborate with families experiencing attendance concerns, provide resources and develop plans as appropriate. Students who are chronically absent will be considered for retention. When students are absent, you will receive an automated phone call to alert you to the absence.

Lawful absences: If a student is absent due to illness, or another legitimate reason, they must bring a written note signed by the parent or legal guardian, or a doctor’s note if they have been seen. The note must be sent in within three days of the absence.

Make-Up Work Requirements: It is the responsibility of all students, whether the absence is lawful or unlawful, to obtain and to complete the work provided by each teacher. All make-up work will be graded in accordance with the regular classroom grading policy if it is completed within the established timeline. Generally, students will have one day to make up work for each day of absence. Teachers are not expected to provide schoolwork before absences.

Tardiness (Late Arrival) & Early Release & Parent Pick-up

All students arriving after the school start time MUST BE SIGNED IN by an adult in the school office. Students arriving after the start of the school day will be considered tardy. Students leaving before the end of the school day will be identified as having an early release.

Please note: Unless it is a school or system wide emergency, parents must provide written permission for anyone to pick up their child from school. A written note is required each time your child is picked up by someone other than the parent or legal guardian, even if the person is listed on the Emergency Form.

We kindly request that, due to increased allergies, students with diabetes and other health concerns, non-food items such as pencils, stickers, trinkets, etc. be sent in to share with the class. No food items are permitted. Please communicate with the teacher in advance if you are planning on sending nonfood items in to celebrate your child’s birthday or other celebration.

The short documentary "Sharing Hope – Sharing Our Stories" features five Calvert County residents who bravely share their experiences with opioids and the impact of substance use disorder on their lives and families. These powerful stories of loss, struggle, and resilience remind us that recovery is possible and underscore the importance of community understanding and support.

The documentary also highlights valuable resources available in our community for those affected by substance use and their loved ones. By watching and sharing this film, you can help foster awareness and compassion while promoting recovery and hope. The link to the documentary is: https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/90/Calvert-Alliance-Against-Substance-Abuse.

Let’s work together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by the opioid epidemic. Please reach out to Mrs. D'Agostino if you need additional materials or information to assist in sharing this message. She can be reached at Candice.Dagostino@calvertcountymd.gov or 410-535-3733. Thank you for your support and commitment to our community.

Nondiscrimination Statement

Calvert County Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry or national origin, familial status, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth programs.

Calvert County Public Schools does not refuse enrollment of a prospective student, expel a current student, or withhold privileges from a current student, or prospective student, or the parent or guardian of a current or prospective student because of an individual’s race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, age, national original, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.

Calvert County Public Schools does not discipline, invoke a penalty against, or take any other retaliatory action against a student or parent or guardian of a student who files a complaint alleging that the program or school discriminated against the student, regardless of the outcome of the complaint.

The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

Ø Director of Student Services

Ø Director of Human Resources
443-550-8000

For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Assessment System at: https://ocrcas.ed.gov or call 1-800-421-3481.

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Anti-sexual, Anti-racial and Anti-disability Harassment Statement
Discrimination can manifest itself in behaviors such as bullying, harassment, or intimidation of individuals.

Calvert County Public Schools does not tolerate any form of harassment including, but not limited to, sexual, racial, or disability. Any individual (student, employee, or community member) who believes that they have been subjected to any form of harassment is encouraged to report the allegation of harassment. Students, parents, and community members may report allegations of harassment to: Ms. Cecelia Lewis, Director of Student Services, Calvert County Public Schools, 1305 Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678

Employees may report allegations of harassment to: Mr. Zachary Seawell, Director of Human Resources, Calvert County Public Schools, 1305 Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678

Calvert County Public Schools is committed to conducting a prompt investigation for any allegation of harassment. If harassment has occurred, the individual will be disciplined promptly. Disciplinary actions for students found to have engaged in any form of harassment may result in suspension or expulsion. Disciplinary actions for employees found to have engaged in any form of harassment may result in suspension or termination.

Calvert County Public Schools encourages all students, parents, employees, and community members to work together to prevent any form of harassment.

For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Assessment System at: https://ocrcas.ed.gov or call 1-800-421-3481.

Calvert County Public Schools Antiracism Statement

Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) explicitly denounces racism, bullying, discrimination, white supremacy, hate, and racial inequity in any form within our school community. Furthermore, CCPS will not tolerate the values, structures, and behaviors that perpetuate systemic racism.

Each member of the district, individually and collectively, is responsible for creating and nurturing a safe, antiracist learning environment where each student, staff member, and community partner is a respected and valued member of the CCPS community.