Garrett County Public Schools
Building Strong Partnerships: Fostering Education and Collaboration Among Garrett County Schools, Families, and Communities
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝟑-𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝟗/𝟐𝟑/𝟐𝟔
In accordance with the approved 2026-27 calendar, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, for staff development in the afternoon. Staff will be participating in school-based professional development.
All 2026-27 GCPS calendar information is available on our website at www.gcps.net/calendars.
In accordance with the approved 2026-27 calendar, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, for staff development in the afternoon. Staff will be participating in school-based professional development.
All 2026-27 GCPS calendar information is available on our website at www.gcps.net/calendars.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
When schools and communities work together, students have more opportunities to learn, grow, connect, and succeed. This week, we celebrate the Community School Coordinators who help make those connections possible and the communities that come together to support our students.
When Schools and Communities Connect, Students Have More Opportunities to Thrive
A community school looks at barriers that can affect a student's ability to learn, such as food insecurity, transportation, health needs, attendance challenges, or a lack of access to enrichment opportunities.
That might mean connecting students with:
• Food and basic-needs assistance
• Mental and behavioral health resources
• Health services
• Tutoring or academic support
• Mentoring
• After-school programs
• Recreation and enrichment
• Attendance support
More Connections.
Schools work alongside families and community partners.
More Opportunities.
Students have access to experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Community organizations become partners.
The school works with organizations, businesses, agencies, nonprofits, higher education institutions, and other community groups.
Those partnerships can bring things into the school that students might not otherwise have access to. That could include:
• Career exploration
• Guest speakers
• Clubs
• Volunteer opportunities
• Family events
• Health services
• College and career experiences
• Cultural experiences
• Service-learning projects
The school learns what its community needs.
A Community School Coordinator helps the school understand its students, families, and community and identify gaps or opportunities. The school can then develop partnerships and programs around those needs. The goal is to make the school a place where students can learn, grow, connect, and access opportunities, while also strengthening the relationship between the school and its surrounding community.
A community school is more than a place to learn. It’s a place where students, families, schools, and communities come together to create opportunities, build connections, and help every student thrive.
𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬:
Visit www.gcps.net/page/community-schools
When schools and communities work together, students have more opportunities to learn, grow, connect, and succeed. This week, we celebrate the Community School Coordinators who help make those connections possible and the communities that come together to support our students.
When Schools and Communities Connect, Students Have More Opportunities to Thrive
A community school looks at barriers that can affect a student's ability to learn, such as food insecurity, transportation, health needs, attendance challenges, or a lack of access to enrichment opportunities.
That might mean connecting students with:
• Food and basic-needs assistance
• Mental and behavioral health resources
• Health services
• Tutoring or academic support
• Mentoring
• After-school programs
• Recreation and enrichment
• Attendance support
More Connections.
Schools work alongside families and community partners.
More Opportunities.
Students have access to experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Community organizations become partners.
The school works with organizations, businesses, agencies, nonprofits, higher education institutions, and other community groups.
Those partnerships can bring things into the school that students might not otherwise have access to. That could include:
• Career exploration
• Guest speakers
• Clubs
• Volunteer opportunities
• Family events
• Health services
• College and career experiences
• Cultural experiences
• Service-learning projects
The school learns what its community needs.
A Community School Coordinator helps the school understand its students, families, and community and identify gaps or opportunities. The school can then develop partnerships and programs around those needs. The goal is to make the school a place where students can learn, grow, connect, and access opportunities, while also strengthening the relationship between the school and its surrounding community.
A community school is more than a place to learn. It’s a place where students, families, schools, and communities come together to create opportunities, build connections, and help every student thrive.
𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬:
Visit www.gcps.net/page/community-schools
𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲
Crellin Elementary School students, staff, and visitors are enjoying a colorful new addition to the school as murals depicting the school’s grounds and community have been completed in the main hallway.
The murals feature a variety of elements connected to Crellin, particularly the school and its natural surroundings. Scenes include a flowing stream with fish, bees, native flowers, barnyard animals, and other details that reflect the school’s environment and the experiences of its students.
The murals were created by a 2021 Southern Garrett High School graduate, Hana (Nazelrod) Butler. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Design from Frostburg State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on K-12 education through Liberty University. She is the daughter of Robyn and Jon Nazelrod; both are GCPS Teachers.
Her work has previously been featured at Southern Garrett High School, where she painted a mural representing the 2010–2019 decade. That mural will be displayed in the school’s cafeteria. She has also created numerous book illustrations, cartoons, and comics.
The Crellin Elementary murals provide students with an opportunity to see familiar aspects of their school and community represented through art, while adding color and creativity to the school environment.
“I think it looks amazing,” said Claire G., a fifth-grade student at Crellin Elementary School. “It’s so cool. She did it so well!”
The project also highlights the connection between Garrett County Public Schools alumni and the schools and communities that helped shape them, bringing their talents back to local students in meaningful ways.
Crellin Elementary School students, staff, and visitors are enjoying a colorful new addition to the school as murals depicting the school’s grounds and community have been completed in the main hallway.
The murals feature a variety of elements connected to Crellin, particularly the school and its natural surroundings. Scenes include a flowing stream with fish, bees, native flowers, barnyard animals, and other details that reflect the school’s environment and the experiences of its students.
The murals were created by a 2021 Southern Garrett High School graduate, Hana (Nazelrod) Butler. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Design from Frostburg State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on K-12 education through Liberty University. She is the daughter of Robyn and Jon Nazelrod; both are GCPS Teachers.
Her work has previously been featured at Southern Garrett High School, where she painted a mural representing the 2010–2019 decade. That mural will be displayed in the school’s cafeteria. She has also created numerous book illustrations, cartoons, and comics.
The Crellin Elementary murals provide students with an opportunity to see familiar aspects of their school and community represented through art, while adding color and creativity to the school environment.
“I think it looks amazing,” said Claire G., a fifth-grade student at Crellin Elementary School. “It’s so cool. She did it so well!”
The project also highlights the connection between Garrett County Public Schools alumni and the schools and communities that helped shape them, bringing their talents back to local students in meaningful ways.
𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥
A strong community connection can open the door to more resources, more experiences, more partnerships, and more opportunities for students and families. Community Schools help connect those possibilities to the people and places where they can make a difference.
Today's continued focus on community schools highlights:
🏫 Students are able to get additional support.
🏫 Families have connections to resources.
🏫 Community organizations become partners.
🏫 The school learns what its community needs
🏫 Building stronger communities.
To learn more about our community schools, visit www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
A strong community connection can open the door to more resources, more experiences, more partnerships, and more opportunities for students and families. Community Schools help connect those possibilities to the people and places where they can make a difference.
Today's continued focus on community schools highlights:
🏫 Students are able to get additional support.
🏫 Families have connections to resources.
🏫 Community organizations become partners.
🏫 The school learns what its community needs
🏫 Building stronger communities.
To learn more about our community schools, visit www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is currently making records available for students who received services under the Special Education Program through Garrett County Public Schools and graduated in 2019 or 2020.
If you would like to have these records, you are asked to contact the Department of Student Services at 301-334-8926 prior to October 19, 2026, to make arrangements to receive the records.
All unclaimed records will be destroyed after that date, pursuant to State regulations.
Today, Garrett County Public Schools recognizes Constitution Day and reflects on the document that established the framework of our nation’s government and continues to shape our rights and responsibilities as citizens.
Throughout our schools, students are learning about the Constitution, helping them understand the foundations of American government, the importance of civic participation, and the role each of us plays in our communities.
Today is a great opportunity for students to learn, ask questions, and engage with the principles that have shaped our nation.
#ConstitutionDay #CivicsEducation #GCPSMD
Throughout our schools, students are learning about the Constitution, helping them understand the foundations of American government, the importance of civic participation, and the role each of us plays in our communities.
Today is a great opportunity for students to learn, ask questions, and engage with the principles that have shaped our nation.
#ConstitutionDay #CivicsEducation #GCPSMD
Request for Proposals for GCPS Marketing and Communications Campaign -- RFP Bid Package #2027-003
Notice is hereby given that the Garrett County Board of Education will receive Requests for Proposals (RFP) from experienced vendors to implement a comprehensive Marketing and Communications Campaign for Garrett County Public Schools.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐩𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐚𝐭 𝟏𝟐:𝟎𝟎 𝐩.𝐦. 𝐍𝐨𝐨𝐧 (𝐄𝐃𝐓). All proposals shall be delivered to the address below:
Garrett County Board of Education
Attn: Dr. Nicole Miller, Superintendent
770 Dennett Road
Oakland, MD 21550
Any electronic submissions must be sent to rfp@garrettcountyschools.org.
Please submit an original and two (2) copies of your Proposal in a sealed envelope to the above contact person. No oral proposals will be accepted. Electronically transmitted proposals will only be accepted with all complete information and only if they arrive before the noted time on the due date. Proposals received after the specified time noted will not be considered.
𝐄𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬. All considered proposals shall include the Cover Sheet, Vendor Questionnaire, a comprehensive marketing plan, and the public schools' federal/state/local governments' debarment procedure certification. These documents, along with other requirements, may be accessed within the Instructions for Proposal Submissions, which can be viewed at https://www.gcps.net/page/request-for-proposals.
Questions may be submitted via email to rfp@garrettcountyschools.org. All questions submitted, along with corresponding answers, may be viewed at the above URL until the RFP submission deadline.
No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the date of the deadline. The Garrett County Board of Education reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive irregularity in the submission.
As we continue celebrating Community School Coordinator Appreciation Week, we turn our focus to the four pillars of the community school model.
Community Schools focus on more than what happens inside the classroom. The model brings together student supports, expanded learning opportunities, family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership to help create stronger schools and communities.
Learn more about our six community schools by visiting www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
Community Schools focus on more than what happens inside the classroom. The model brings together student supports, expanded learning opportunities, family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership to help create stronger schools and communities.
Learn more about our six community schools by visiting www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐒𝐔 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐛𝐜𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐲 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) welcomed Frostburg State University (FSU) President Dr. Shadow Robinson and T. David Garcia, Associate Vice President of Admissions, to Northern Middle School yesterday for a discussion about the Bobcat Academy and additional opportunities for FSU to support and expand opportunities for GCPS students.
The Bobcat Academy is a dual-enrollment partnership that serves students from both Garrett County Public Schools and Allegany County Public Schools, providing students with opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the Bobcat Academy program and Frostburg’s role in expanding access to college coursework and postsecondary opportunities for local students. Through dual enrollment, eligible high school students can earn college credits while completing their high school education, providing an opportunity to explore college-level coursework and make progress toward future degree programs.
“Partnerships like the Bobcat Academy give our students meaningful opportunities to experience college coursework while they are still in high school,” said Mrs. Dawna Ashby, GCPS Chief Academic Officer. “We appreciate Frostburg State University’s commitment to working with our schools to expand access to dual enrollment and help students take the next step toward their postsecondary goals.”
GCPS appreciates the continued partnership with Frostburg State University and its commitment to creating opportunities that help students prepare for their futures.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) welcomed Frostburg State University (FSU) President Dr. Shadow Robinson and T. David Garcia, Associate Vice President of Admissions, to Northern Middle School yesterday for a discussion about the Bobcat Academy and additional opportunities for FSU to support and expand opportunities for GCPS students.
The Bobcat Academy is a dual-enrollment partnership that serves students from both Garrett County Public Schools and Allegany County Public Schools, providing students with opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the Bobcat Academy program and Frostburg’s role in expanding access to college coursework and postsecondary opportunities for local students. Through dual enrollment, eligible high school students can earn college credits while completing their high school education, providing an opportunity to explore college-level coursework and make progress toward future degree programs.
“Partnerships like the Bobcat Academy give our students meaningful opportunities to experience college coursework while they are still in high school,” said Mrs. Dawna Ashby, GCPS Chief Academic Officer. “We appreciate Frostburg State University’s commitment to working with our schools to expand access to dual enrollment and help students take the next step toward their postsecondary goals.”
GCPS appreciates the continued partnership with Frostburg State University and its commitment to creating opportunities that help students prepare for their futures.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐬 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥?
As we continue celebrating Community School Coordinator Appreciation Week, we take a look at what makes a community school. Community Schools are hubs of opportunity and support for students, families, and the surrounding community. A Community School brings together the strengths and resources of a school and its surrounding community to support students and families. It’s a place where schools, families, and community partners work together to create opportunities, build connections, and help students thrive.
GCPS has six community schools: Broad Ford School, Crellin Elementary, Friendsville Elementary, Grantsville Elementary, Swan Meadow School, and Yough Glades Elementary. Learn more about our community schools by visiting www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
As we continue celebrating Community School Coordinator Appreciation Week, we take a look at what makes a community school. Community Schools are hubs of opportunity and support for students, families, and the surrounding community. A Community School brings together the strengths and resources of a school and its surrounding community to support students and families. It’s a place where schools, families, and community partners work together to create opportunities, build connections, and help students thrive.
GCPS has six community schools: Broad Ford School, Crellin Elementary, Friendsville Elementary, Grantsville Elementary, Swan Meadow School, and Yough Glades Elementary. Learn more about our community schools by visiting www.gcps.net/page/community-schools.
𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is providing an update on the Broad Ford School construction project as work continues to address remaining building and site items.
Approximately 90% of the project has been completed. The majority of the remaining items are related to delays in material deliveries. The contractor continues to work during non-school hours to complete items that can be addressed while school is in session. Some remaining work will need to be completed when school is not in session to minimize disruption to students and staff.
GCPS has worked with the contractor to address the remaining items, and the contractor has agreed to extend the warranty period on these items to ensure they are completed at no additional cost to the school system.
Site work is also progressing, with the contractor currently scheduled to complete the remaining site work by late fall. Seeding of the site is expected to take place during the same timeframe. Because newly seeded areas will need time to establish, some field areas may not be available for use until late spring.
GCPS is also coordinating with the Town of Oakland and Garrett County to address excess dirt remaining at the project site. The Town of Oakland has an upcoming project that requires a significant amount of fill material and has requested excess dirt from the Broad Ford site. Through coordination among the Town, County, and contractor, the excess dirt will be removed at no cost to GCPS. The Town and County will provide trucking, while the contractor will provide the equipment and operator needed to load the material.
“We appreciate the continued cooperation of the contractor, the Town of Oakland, and Garrett County as we work through the remaining items at Broad Ford School,” said Mr. Bobby Witt, Director of System Operations. “Our goal is to ensure the project is completed thoroughly while minimizing disruption to students and staff and protecting the investment our community has made in this new school.”
GCPS will continue to provide updates as work progresses toward completion.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is providing an update on the Broad Ford School construction project as work continues to address remaining building and site items.
Approximately 90% of the project has been completed. The majority of the remaining items are related to delays in material deliveries. The contractor continues to work during non-school hours to complete items that can be addressed while school is in session. Some remaining work will need to be completed when school is not in session to minimize disruption to students and staff.
GCPS has worked with the contractor to address the remaining items, and the contractor has agreed to extend the warranty period on these items to ensure they are completed at no additional cost to the school system.
Site work is also progressing, with the contractor currently scheduled to complete the remaining site work by late fall. Seeding of the site is expected to take place during the same timeframe. Because newly seeded areas will need time to establish, some field areas may not be available for use until late spring.
GCPS is also coordinating with the Town of Oakland and Garrett County to address excess dirt remaining at the project site. The Town of Oakland has an upcoming project that requires a significant amount of fill material and has requested excess dirt from the Broad Ford site. Through coordination among the Town, County, and contractor, the excess dirt will be removed at no cost to GCPS. The Town and County will provide trucking, while the contractor will provide the equipment and operator needed to load the material.
“We appreciate the continued cooperation of the contractor, the Town of Oakland, and Garrett County as we work through the remaining items at Broad Ford School,” said Mr. Bobby Witt, Director of System Operations. “Our goal is to ensure the project is completed thoroughly while minimizing disruption to students and staff and protecting the investment our community has made in this new school.”
GCPS will continue to provide updates as work progresses toward completion.
𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) announces that Mr. Steve Skipper will serve as Interim Principal of Southern Garrett High School during Principal Wolf’s scheduled extended leave of absence. Mrs. Gallagher will continue in her role as Assistant Principal. Additional administrative support will be provided by Mrs. Andi Sessa, Administrator in Residence, and Mrs. Amy Warnick, Supervisor of Instruction – Secondary, who will assist with school operations and leadership responsibilities throughout this period.
GCPS remains committed to providing a consistent, supportive learning environment for students and continued support for staff and families during the transition.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) announces that Mr. Steve Skipper will serve as Interim Principal of Southern Garrett High School during Principal Wolf’s scheduled extended leave of absence. Mrs. Gallagher will continue in her role as Assistant Principal. Additional administrative support will be provided by Mrs. Andi Sessa, Administrator in Residence, and Mrs. Amy Warnick, Supervisor of Instruction – Secondary, who will assist with school operations and leadership responsibilities throughout this period.
GCPS remains committed to providing a consistent, supportive learning environment for students and continued support for staff and families during the transition.
💻 Happy National IT Professionals Day! 💻
Today, we’re celebrating our dedicated IT professionals who keep GCPS connected, supported, and moving forward every day. Their expertise helps keep our technology running, supports staff and students, and ensures our schools have the tools they need to learn, work, and succeed.
Thank you to our GCPS IT team for everything you do to keep us connected!
𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤!
This week, we’re celebrating the dedicated specialists who help connect our schools with students, families, community partners, resources, and opportunities.
Our community school specialists:
• Amy Egress, Broad Ford School
• Ashley Wilt, Crellin Elementary
• Dana Mason, Grantsville Elementary
• Megan Knepp, Yough Glades Elementary
• Stacey Weimer, Friendsville Elementary
• Kellie Warnick, Swan Meadow School
What does a community school coordinator do? They help connect students and families with resources, opportunities, partnerships, and supports that strengthen the school community.
Thank you to our Community School Coordinators for the connections you make and the difference you make in our schools and communities!
This week, we’re celebrating the dedicated specialists who help connect our schools with students, families, community partners, resources, and opportunities.
Our community school specialists:
• Amy Egress, Broad Ford School
• Ashley Wilt, Crellin Elementary
• Dana Mason, Grantsville Elementary
• Megan Knepp, Yough Glades Elementary
• Stacey Weimer, Friendsville Elementary
• Kellie Warnick, Swan Meadow School
What does a community school coordinator do? They help connect students and families with resources, opportunities, partnerships, and supports that strengthen the school community.
Thank you to our Community School Coordinators for the connections you make and the difference you make in our schools and communities!
𝐉𝐨𝐛 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 - 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥
The Allied Health Teacher at Southern Garrett High School provides health services instruction and delivers the Project Lead the Way Biomedical curriculum, working with partnering agencies to coordinate clinical experiences for students. This role involves developing and implementing the training program, supervising classroom and clinical experiences, evaluating student performance, and maintaining all required school and program records in compliance with the Board of Nursing. The teacher also serves on local health education committees, upholds confidentiality and professional standards, and maintains a classroom environment conducive to learning while pursuing ongoing professional development in allied health education.
𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Allied Health Teacher
𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Southern Garrett High School
𝐅𝐓𝐄: Full-time
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬: Exempt
𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐬: 187 workdays, generally 7.6 hours per day, but may be greater depending on system needs
𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲: Unit I Teacher Blueprint Career Ladder Salary Scale ($60,010-$69,169) (Commensurate with education and experience)
𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫: Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Director of Secondary Education
𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: 2026-2027 School Year
𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞:
Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.
𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞/𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲:
https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=High+School+Teaching
The Garrett County Board of Education shall not discriminate against any employee or any applicant seeking employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry or national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or disability. Questions about this policy should be directed to the Director of Human Resources and Employee Relations at 301-334-8904.
🎨🎶 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤! 🎭✨
September 13–19 is National Arts in Education Week, and we’re celebrating the creativity, talent, and passion of our GCPS students and educators!
Across Garrett County Public Schools, the arts give students meaningful opportunities to discover their talents, create with purpose, express themselves, and build confidence. Our music, visual arts, theater, and other arts programs help students develop skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
This week, we’re proud to celebrate the students who share their talents and the educators who inspire them to imagine what’s possible! 🎨🎵
Want to see GCPS art on display? Mark your calendars now for the 2027 Student Arts Fair, taking place on Saturday, March 20, 2027. Additional information will be shared ahead of this date.
#GCPSMD #ArtsInEducation #NationalArtsInEducationWeek
September 13–19 is National Arts in Education Week, and we’re celebrating the creativity, talent, and passion of our GCPS students and educators!
Across Garrett County Public Schools, the arts give students meaningful opportunities to discover their talents, create with purpose, express themselves, and build confidence. Our music, visual arts, theater, and other arts programs help students develop skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
This week, we’re proud to celebrate the students who share their talents and the educators who inspire them to imagine what’s possible! 🎨🎵
Want to see GCPS art on display? Mark your calendars now for the 2027 Student Arts Fair, taking place on Saturday, March 20, 2027. Additional information will be shared ahead of this date.
#GCPSMD #ArtsInEducation #NationalArtsInEducationWeek
𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥-𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝
During the August 11, 2026, Board of Education meeting, Director of Student Services Michael Lewis presented Wayfinder, a set of instructional materials designed to support social-emotional learning. The materials were made available for public review and comment from August 12th through August 26th. Public feedback was shared with the Board during its September 8, 2026, meeting. Following the review and public comment period, the Board voted 3-1 to approve the Wayfinder materials for use beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The Board will meet initially in Executive Session at Perkins Restaurant from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. to discuss the Superintendent's goals for 2026-27.
The Board will return to Public Session at 4:00 p.m. at Dennett Road Education Complex in the Community Room for Public Comment. Thereafter, the Board will return to Executive Session in the Instructional Directors’ Conference Room to continue personnel discussions.
The Board of Education will reconvene for the Public Session from 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review via https://youtube.com/live/RhSHhsAcKCA?feature=share. Time is set aside during the public session for the hearing of constituents at approximately 7:00 p.m. Please note that this time is approximate, and public comment may be adjusted based on the timing of the presentations.
Topics excluded from Public Comment include:
● Individual personnel issues.
● Comments identifying individual students or staff members.
● Matters that are on appeal or may be appealed or have been appealed.
● Topics for which the Board schedules formal public hearings.
● Advertising or solicitation for products and/or services.
The agenda for the August Board Meeting can be accessed at https://garrettcountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/Portal/. The agendas are not considered final until the Board takes action to accept them at the start of each meeting.
Part or all of the meeting may be closed pursuant to the General Provision §3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬
Would your business be interested in opening its doors to Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) students? GCPS Career Coaches Mary Keller and Jodi Bittinger are looking to connect local businesses with students through workplace field trips and guest speaker opportunities. These experiences give students a chance to see local businesses in action, learn more about different industries and careers, and discover the opportunities available right here in Garrett County. If your business is interested in hosting a student field trip or speaking with students at one of our schools, Mary and Jodi would be happy to help coordinate the opportunity.
𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬:
Mary Keller, Southern High School – mary.keller@gcps.net
Jodi Bittinger, Northern High School – jodi.bittinger@gcps.net
Together, let’s connect Garrett County students with the businesses, careers, and opportunities in our community!
Would your business be interested in opening its doors to Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) students? GCPS Career Coaches Mary Keller and Jodi Bittinger are looking to connect local businesses with students through workplace field trips and guest speaker opportunities. These experiences give students a chance to see local businesses in action, learn more about different industries and careers, and discover the opportunities available right here in Garrett County. If your business is interested in hosting a student field trip or speaking with students at one of our schools, Mary and Jodi would be happy to help coordinate the opportunity.
𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬:
Mary Keller, Southern High School – mary.keller@gcps.net
Jodi Bittinger, Northern High School – jodi.bittinger@gcps.net
Together, let’s connect Garrett County students with the businesses, careers, and opportunities in our community!
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐲
In accordance with the approved 2026-27 calendar, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026, in observance of Labor Day. All schools and offices are closed. Regular operations are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
All 2026-27 GCPS calendar information is available on our website at www.gcps.net/calendars.
In accordance with the approved 2026-27 calendar, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026, in observance of Labor Day. All schools and offices are closed. Regular operations are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
All 2026-27 GCPS calendar information is available on our website at www.gcps.net/calendars.
