Focus on FCPS

The FCPS 2022-23 Annual Report highlights student success and how the work of all staff supports students on their paths to success.

Frederick County Public Schools is accepting applications for its community engagement program called FCPS 101. Learn more about FCPS 101.

FCPS parents/guardians should have received an email from fcps-sis@fcpsk12.net with an activation code and instructions for creating your Infinite Campus Parent Portal Account. If you have not yet received that email, please be patient, you should be receiving it soon. If you have issues creating your account, please email ParentPortalSupport@fcpsk12.net. In order for us to serve you better, please include your name, your student's name and the school your student attends when emailing support. Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to implement the new student information system.

One out of every five (20.2%) students report being bullied. We used to view ‘bullying’ historically as a broad overarching word but now we understand there to be many types of bullying and discrimination. Bullying can have long-term effects on mental and emotional health. Bullied individuals and bullies are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and lower self-esteem. Access parent resources from STOMP Out Bullying.

The 11th Annual I’m Determined Mini Summit took place on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Robert E. Aylor Middle School. The keynote speaker was Jalon Blackwell, former Special Education Advisory Committee student representative and current senior at Sherando High School. The I’m Determined program provides students, parents and educators with tools and strategies to teach youth with disabilities the skills to have a voice and make decisions about their lives. Each year, the Clarke Cup is awarded to the school with the most students and families in attendance. Congratulations to Orchard View Elementary for receiving the award this year.

Fourth graders have been working with Art Teacher Mrs. Savory, Instructional Technology Coach Mrs. Clark and Levi Snapp from West Oaks to create advertisements for produce at the farm market. Students learned how technology, art and businesses intersect by designing pixel art of West Oaks’ produce. The students’ favorite designs from each class were installed by the fourth graders using fence “put-in cups.” Thank you to West Oaks for donating produce to observe, draw inspiration from and taste.

Two years ago, more than 40 Greenwood Mill Elementary School students engaged in a

project-based learning experience aimed at making the school's playground more accessible for students with mobility issues. On Friday, September 29, the result of their work was unveiled - the addition of two pieces of inclusive play equipment on their playground.

Recently, Shenandoah University held the Worlds of Work expo, where employers from around the area displayed career opportunities to local eighth grade students.

Students from Dowell J. Howard Center were recognized during Tuesday's School Board meeting as part of the School Board Awards of Excellence Program for their achievement in the SkillsUSA competition at the Virginia State Fair. In addition, Charisse Woodward, Business Teacher at Sherando High School, was recognized as the Walter L. Shell Business Teacher of the Year and Marianne Showalter, Bookkeeper at Gainesboro Elementary, was recognized as a nominee for the RISE Award, which honors school staff in support roles.

October 9-13 was National School Lunch Week. Thank you to all of our school nutrition services employees who work hard to provide nutritious breakfast and lunch for our students every school day.

October 16-20 was National School Bus Safety Week. We thank all of our bus drivers, bus aides and transportation staff for transporting our students safely to and from school each day.

• Friday, October 27 at 3:00 p.m. - Special Called School Board Meeting
• Tuesday, October 31 - Report Cards available in Infinite Campus
• Monday, November 6 - No School (Admin and School Offices Closed)
• Tuesday, November 7 - No School for Students (Professional Learning Day for Staff)
• Monday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m. - Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Meeting