Montgomery County Public Schools

High school students throughout the school system are preparing to take the Maryland High School Assessment (HSA) exams May 19–22. The tests, which measure school and individual student progress, are given in English, algebra, biology and government. Passing the HSA is a state requirement for graduation, starting with the Class of 2009.

Elementary and middle school students displayed their art work at an arts fair held at White Flint Mall. Choral groups from Broad Acres, Judith A. Resnik, Travilah and Cashell elementary schools also performed. MCPS students have an opportunity to participate in a wide range of visual and performing arts activities during the school year.

Middle school students are visiting area universities to learn about campus life and spark their interest in planning for the future. White Oak MS students and parents participated in a program at the University of Maryland, College Park; students from Roberto Clemente and Sligo middle schools also visited the College Park campus. Banneker Middle School students visited Morgan State University, and Morgan State officials came to Julius West MS to discuss college admissions and options.

Career and technology education is being transformed to prepare students for college and career success. The Board of Education discussed the school system’s Career Pathways Programs at its May 13 meeting. Eleven career clusters and three foundations provide students with a range of options. Elements from the successful Advanced Engineering—Project Lead the Way and the Academy of Finance are driving redesign of other career programs.

The school system’s 47 pupil personnel workers were recognized during Pupil Personnel Worker Week May 5–9 for the essential role they play in MCPS. Pupil personnel workers provide a bridge between home and school, serve as advocates for students and their families, and identify services and resources to help students succeed academically.

The Music Center at Strathmore opened its doors to all fifth grade students on May 7, 8 and 9, as the students attended performances by the Baltimore Symphony conducted by Carolyn Kuan. Many of these same students attended a concert of the National Philharmonic at Strathmore when they were second graders. The yearly interactive concerts are a collaborative effort of MCPS and Strathmore, with support from the Webber Family and Wachovia foundations.

The Board of Education's all-day business meeting will be webcast live starting at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 13. You need the free Windows MediaPlayer on your computer to view the meeting.

Be sure to watch the new edition of the MCPS TV show “Cover to Cover.” This month’s program features segments on a program that supports English language learners with interrupted education; the Superintendent’s Leadership Program, in which young leaders mentor their student peers; a profile of Ridgeview Middle School science teacher Autumn Moore; and an inside look at North Chevy Chase Elementary School.