𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓-𝟐𝟔 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) would like to provide an update on Winter Operations for the 2025-26 school year. Please review the following information regarding possible weather-related calls, the Virtual Learning Plan for 2025-26, and communications.
The Virtual Learning Plan for Inclement Weather for the 2025-26 school year was approved at the October Board Meeting. An important change of note for this year’s plan is the possibility of utilizing a 2- or 3-hour delay on virtual days. Additionally, Virtual Learning Days may not be implemented until three traditional inclement weather days have been used. The detailed plan is available for review on the homepage of our website under District Initiatives (https://www.gcps.net/article/2274862).
As a result of these changes, our Inclement Weather Calls have also been updated. Changes are reflected in the Inclement Weather Calls document, located on the Transportation page of the website under the Winter Operation Information tab (https://www.gcps.net/page/winter-operation-information). Please note the possibility of utilizing a 3-hour delay call, as this has not been called in the past few years.
Parents may review their alert settings in the PowerSchool Parent Portal. For staff members without PowerSchool access or community members who would like to receive alerts via text, call, and/or email, you may sign up by navigating to the Public Relations page and clicking on the Staff and Community SchoolMessenger Setup link (https://www.gcps.net/page/public-relations).
𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
During the October 14, 2025, Board meeting, Ms. Alyssa Paugh, a 9th-grade student at Southern Garrett High School, was recognized. Ms. Paugh's artwork was chosen by the Superintendent and the Fine Arts Committee at the Student Honors Arts Fair in April 2025. The Board of Education has purchased her artwork for display at the Central Office.
Ms. Paugh’s artwork is a hand pointing, with an eagle in flight, with trees in the foreground. The medium for the artwork is charcoal. She studied the surrealist work of artist Salvador Dali as inspiration for the piece.
📣 𝐖𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠! 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭
Garrett County Public Schools is seeking two Special Education Instructional Assistants to join our dedicated team! These full-time positions are available at two different school locations, Broad Ford and Yough Glades, offering an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students every day.
If you’re passionate about supporting student growth, collaboration, and inclusion, we’d love to have you on our team.
✅ These positions are full-time, 10-month, 7.6 hours per day, 187 days per year
✅ Pay is in accordance with the established support salary scale $30,136 - $34,145
✅ Report to the School Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Director of Special Education
✅ Positions are available immediately for the 2025-26 school year
👉 Learn more and apply today: www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/
#GCPSMDEmployment #SpecialEducation #NowHiring #GarrettCountyPublicSchools
Garrett County Public Schools is seeking two Special Education Instructional Assistants to join our dedicated team! These full-time positions are available at two different school locations, Broad Ford and Yough Glades, offering an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students every day.
If you’re passionate about supporting student growth, collaboration, and inclusion, we’d love to have you on our team.
✅ These positions are full-time, 10-month, 7.6 hours per day, 187 days per year
✅ Pay is in accordance with the established support salary scale $30,136 - $34,145
✅ Report to the School Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Director of Special Education
✅ Positions are available immediately for the 2025-26 school year
👉 Learn more and apply today: www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/
#GCPSMDEmployment #SpecialEducation #NowHiring #GarrettCountyPublicSchools
On this #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on Setting Health Goals.
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥?
According to Calm.com, setting health goals can help you achieve immediate physical improvements, as well as find a more balanced and fulfilling life.
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: When you have a specific goal in mind, you're more likely to stick to your healthier habits and lifestyle changes, feeling motivated to overcome challenges. Working toward health goals can help strengthen your self-discipline skills, which can benefit other areas of your life.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: Physical health goals, such as increasing physical activity or eating a balanced diet, directly contribute to better overall health. These goals can lead to measurable improvements in areas such as cardiovascular health, stronger muscles and bones, improved metabolic functions, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬: Many health goals involve activities that inherently reduce stress, such as exercise, yoga, or spending time outdoors. Setting and pursuing these goals can lead to a more relaxed state of mind and a reduction in the symptoms associated with stress and anxiety.
𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: Mental health goals focus on improving your psychological well-being. This could involve managing stress, improving sleep quality, or seeking therapy. These goals can lead to a more positive outlook on life, increased self-esteem, and better coping mechanisms.
𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠: Setting and achieving health goals can contribute to an overall sense of well-being. You feel more in control of your life and health, leading to increased happiness and satisfaction.
𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞: By focusing on various aspects of your health, such as physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connections, you work toward a more balanced life, leading to increased happiness and fulfillment.
For additional information, please visit www.calm.com.
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥?
According to Calm.com, setting health goals can help you achieve immediate physical improvements, as well as find a more balanced and fulfilling life.
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: When you have a specific goal in mind, you're more likely to stick to your healthier habits and lifestyle changes, feeling motivated to overcome challenges. Working toward health goals can help strengthen your self-discipline skills, which can benefit other areas of your life.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: Physical health goals, such as increasing physical activity or eating a balanced diet, directly contribute to better overall health. These goals can lead to measurable improvements in areas such as cardiovascular health, stronger muscles and bones, improved metabolic functions, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬: Many health goals involve activities that inherently reduce stress, such as exercise, yoga, or spending time outdoors. Setting and pursuing these goals can lead to a more relaxed state of mind and a reduction in the symptoms associated with stress and anxiety.
𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: Mental health goals focus on improving your psychological well-being. This could involve managing stress, improving sleep quality, or seeking therapy. These goals can lead to a more positive outlook on life, increased self-esteem, and better coping mechanisms.
𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠: Setting and achieving health goals can contribute to an overall sense of well-being. You feel more in control of your life and health, leading to increased happiness and satisfaction.
𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞: By focusing on various aspects of your health, such as physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connections, you work toward a more balanced life, leading to increased happiness and fulfillment.
For additional information, please visit www.calm.com.
𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review via https://youtube.com/live/NIq1-UUmKgc?feature=share.
Public comment for the October Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session until 5:40 p.m. to discuss personnel topics. The Board of Education will reconvene for its public session from 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. 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 Public Session can be accessed at BoardDocs - https://www.boarddocs.com/mabe/garrett/Board.nsf/Public. The agenda is not considered final until the Board takes action to accept it 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.
🍎🥪 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤! 🥦🍎
This week, we celebrate the dedicated food service teams who keep our students fueled and ready to learn each day. From fresh fruits and veggies to balanced meals that power young minds, our cafeterias serve up more than just lunch—they serve care, community, and nutrition! 💚
Join us in thanking our incredible school nutrition staff for all they do to make healthy eating fun and delicious! 🙌
#NationalSchoolLunchWeek #SchoolMealsThatRock #ThankYouCafeteriaTeam #GCPSProud
This week, we celebrate the dedicated food service teams who keep our students fueled and ready to learn each day. From fresh fruits and veggies to balanced meals that power young minds, our cafeterias serve up more than just lunch—they serve care, community, and nutrition! 💚
Join us in thanking our incredible school nutrition staff for all they do to make healthy eating fun and delicious! 🙌
#NationalSchoolLunchWeek #SchoolMealsThatRock #ThankYouCafeteriaTeam #GCPSProud
𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Thursday, October 9, 2025, for staff development in the afternoon. County-wide staff development will take place in various schools and at Garrett College.
Additionally, all GCPS schools and offices will be closed on Friday, October 10, 2025, in observance of the Autumn Glory Festival. Schools and offices are scheduled to reopen on Monday, October 13, 2025.
Full calendar details are available at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Thursday, October 9, 2025, for staff development in the afternoon. County-wide staff development will take place in various schools and at Garrett College.
Additionally, all GCPS schools and offices will be closed on Friday, October 10, 2025, in observance of the Autumn Glory Festival. Schools and offices are scheduled to reopen on Monday, October 13, 2025.
Full calendar details are available at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
We continue our #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday October focus by Setting Health Goals. Health goals are specific, actionable steps you take to improve your physical, mental, or emotional well-being, such as increasing your physical activity or developing better sleep habits. To be effective, health goals should adhere to the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, it may be tempting to jump right into a big, new goal, such as walking a 5K, but this can feel overwhelming. Build your confidence by focusing on things you know you can do, and then gradually add new challenges. For example, a new physical activity could start with just 1 day per week, for as little as 5 to 10 minutes. As you go, you can add more minutes to your routine or challenge yourself to be active more days of the week. If you have more than one new habit in mind, start with one and add more habits after you’ve gotten a few weeks of practice.
👉 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥: If you have more than one new habit in mind, start with one and add more habits after you’ve gotten a few weeks of practice.
👉 𝐒𝐞𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲: There’s never a perfect time to start a new habit, so why not get inspired and start today?
👉 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟: Nobody is perfect, especially when you’re practicing something new. Moderation can help keep you motivated in the long term.
👉 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐲: Your new healthy habit won’t be the only thing happening in your life. And sometimes gets in the way of your activity plans. Can’t get to the gym today, try doing a workout at home or even 10 minutes of stretching instead. Something is always better than nothing, and every little bit counts.
👉 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐈𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐨𝐮: It's OK to change your plan along the way. You are the expert on you, so if something isn't working, make a new plan.
For additional information, please check out https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, it may be tempting to jump right into a big, new goal, such as walking a 5K, but this can feel overwhelming. Build your confidence by focusing on things you know you can do, and then gradually add new challenges. For example, a new physical activity could start with just 1 day per week, for as little as 5 to 10 minutes. As you go, you can add more minutes to your routine or challenge yourself to be active more days of the week. If you have more than one new habit in mind, start with one and add more habits after you’ve gotten a few weeks of practice.
👉 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥: If you have more than one new habit in mind, start with one and add more habits after you’ve gotten a few weeks of practice.
👉 𝐒𝐞𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲: There’s never a perfect time to start a new habit, so why not get inspired and start today?
👉 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟: Nobody is perfect, especially when you’re practicing something new. Moderation can help keep you motivated in the long term.
👉 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐲: Your new healthy habit won’t be the only thing happening in your life. And sometimes gets in the way of your activity plans. Can’t get to the gym today, try doing a workout at home or even 10 minutes of stretching instead. Something is always better than nothing, and every little bit counts.
👉 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐈𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐨𝐮: It's OK to change your plan along the way. You are the expert on you, so if something isn't working, make a new plan.
For additional information, please check out https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/.
𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review.
Public comment for the October Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session until 5:40 p.m. to discuss personnel topics. The Board of Education will reconvene for its public session from 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. 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 Public Session can be accessed at BoardDocs - https://www.boarddocs.com/mabe/garrett/Board.nsf/Public. The agenda is not considered final until the Board takes action to accept it 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.
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review.
Public comment for the October Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session until 5:40 p.m. to discuss personnel topics. The Board of Education will reconvene for its public session from 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. 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 Public Session can be accessed at BoardDocs - https://www.boarddocs.com/mabe/garrett/Board.nsf/Public. The agenda is not considered final until the Board takes action to accept it 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.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is honored to announce that the 2025-26 GCPS Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Laura Witt, recently received a donation from the Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation through the WGW Youth Charities. The $2,500 check presented to Mrs. Witt will be utilized at her discretion to support educational initiatives and student success.
The Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation and WGW Youth Charities have become valued community partners, raising significant funds each year to benefit local charities, organizations, and schools, including GCPS. This donation demonstrates the group’s continued dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of Garrett County students.
Mrs. Witt expressed her appreciation while accepting the check, saying, “I am deeply grateful to the Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation and WGW Youth Charities for their continued support of Garrett County Public Schools. This donation will help us provide meaningful experiences and resources that directly impact student learning.”
Learn more about Mrs. Witt and past Teachers of the Year by visiting https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-teacher-of-the-year.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is honored to announce that the 2025-26 GCPS Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Laura Witt, recently received a donation from the Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation through the WGW Youth Charities. The $2,500 check presented to Mrs. Witt will be utilized at her discretion to support educational initiatives and student success.
The Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation and WGW Youth Charities have become valued community partners, raising significant funds each year to benefit local charities, organizations, and schools, including GCPS. This donation demonstrates the group’s continued dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of Garrett County students.
Mrs. Witt expressed her appreciation while accepting the check, saying, “I am deeply grateful to the Andrew S. Woods Memorial Foundation and WGW Youth Charities for their continued support of Garrett County Public Schools. This donation will help us provide meaningful experiences and resources that directly impact student learning.”
Learn more about Mrs. Witt and past Teachers of the Year by visiting https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-teacher-of-the-year.
The Garrett County Board of Education seeks a Superintendent of Schools who will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Garrett County Public Schools and provide strong, visionary leadership to ensure every student receives a high-quality education. The ideal candidate will be an experienced educational leader who can effectively manage district operations in accordance with Board policies, Maryland Public School Law, and State Board of Education regulations.
The Board is looking for a Superintendent who can successfully guide the system through the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. This includes advancing early childhood education, strengthening college and career readiness pathways, supporting educator career ladders, expanding wraparound services, and ensuring accountability and transparent reporting.
Because Garrett County is a rural district, the Board values a leader who understands the opportunities and challenges of rural education and is committed to equity, access, and building strong partnerships with families, businesses, and the broader community. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to inspire trust, promote collaboration, and maintain a student-centered focus in all decisions.
Full details and the application are available at https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?AppliTrackJobID=1048&ref=.
The Board is looking for a Superintendent who can successfully guide the system through the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. This includes advancing early childhood education, strengthening college and career readiness pathways, supporting educator career ladders, expanding wraparound services, and ensuring accountability and transparent reporting.
Because Garrett County is a rural district, the Board values a leader who understands the opportunities and challenges of rural education and is committed to equity, access, and building strong partnerships with families, businesses, and the broader community. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to inspire trust, promote collaboration, and maintain a student-centered focus in all decisions.
Full details and the application are available at https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?AppliTrackJobID=1048&ref=.
𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝟏𝟎/𝟐/𝟐𝟓
Student progress reports for the first grading period will be released today, Thursday, October 2, 2025. Schools will release the progress reports according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or contact your school office with any questions.
Student progress reports for the first grading period will be released today, Thursday, October 2, 2025. Schools will release the progress reports according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or contact your school office with any questions.
🌟 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲! 🌟
We want to take a moment to recognize and thank our incredible custodial staff for the vital role they play in keeping our schools safe, clean, and welcoming for students, staff, and families. 🧹✨
Your hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it makes a huge difference every single day.
#NationalCustodianDay #ThankYouCustodians #GCPSMD #GCPSMDProud
We want to take a moment to recognize and thank our incredible custodial staff for the vital role they play in keeping our schools safe, clean, and welcoming for students, staff, and families. 🧹✨
Your hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it makes a huge difference every single day.
#NationalCustodianDay #ThankYouCustodians #GCPSMD #GCPSMDProud
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐱𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐎𝐩𝐭-𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
A reminder from GCPS: Parents/Guardians have the option to opt their child out of the Family Life and Human Sexuality objectives included in the Health Education Framework. To support informed decision-making, parents and guardians are encouraged to review the health education instructional materials, which are available at each school. If you have questions about the opt-out process or would like to review the materials, please contact your child’s school directly.
A reminder from GCPS: Parents/Guardians have the option to opt their child out of the Family Life and Human Sexuality objectives included in the Health Education Framework. To support informed decision-making, parents and guardians are encouraged to review the health education instructional materials, which are available at each school. If you have questions about the opt-out process or would like to review the materials, please contact your child’s school directly.
✨ 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡! ✨
GCPS is proud to celebrate the dedication, leadership, and passion of our principals who work tirelessly every day to support our students, staff, and families. Their commitment helps create welcoming schools where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. 💙📚🍎
Join us in thanking our principals for all they do to lead with heart and inspire excellence!
#GCPSMD #ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth
GCPS is proud to celebrate the dedication, leadership, and passion of our principals who work tirelessly every day to support our students, staff, and families. Their commitment helps create welcoming schools where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. 💙📚🍎
Join us in thanking our principals for all they do to lead with heart and inspire excellence!
#GCPSMD #ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth
During the month of October, we turn our #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday focus to Setting Health Goals.
𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
S - specific
M - measurable
A - attainable
R - relevant
T - time-bound
How to Set SMART Goals for better health.
𝟏. 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 (e.g., weight loss, exercise, nutrition, sleep).
𝟐. 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬:
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Clearly define what you want to achieve (e.g., lose 10 pounds, run 30 minutes daily).
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Provide a way to evaluate success (e.g., weight on the scale, steps taken).
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Ensure you have the necessary time and resources.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: Ensure it is an achievable and sustainable goal.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Set a start date, frequency, and deadline for achieving your goals (e.g., 6 months, 1 year).
𝟑. 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐬:
Divide large goals into manageable tasks (e.g., walk 10 minutes daily for 3 weeks, then increase to 15 minutes).
𝟒. 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Outline specific strategies to achieve your goals (e.g., joining a gym, consulting a nutritionist, tracking calories). Schedule time for activities and make them a priority.
𝟓. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝:
Regularly track your progress and celebrate small wins.
𝟔. 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲:
Share your goals with friends, family, or a healthcare professional for encouragement and feedback.
𝟕. 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬:
Reward yourself for achieving milestones and reaching your goals.
𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐟 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Walk more every day.
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Walk 15 minutes after work on weekdays.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Set reminders on my calendar.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: I can find 15 extra minutes daily to walk.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Start tomorrow, re-evaluate in 6 weeks.
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Get one more hour of sleep nightly
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Go to sleep 15 minutes earlier each night.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Turn off the TV or put down my phone an hour earlier and read a book instead.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: Changing bedtime gradually is easier than making a sudden change.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Start tonight and see how I feel in four weeks.
𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
S - specific
M - measurable
A - attainable
R - relevant
T - time-bound
How to Set SMART Goals for better health.
𝟏. 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 (e.g., weight loss, exercise, nutrition, sleep).
𝟐. 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬:
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Clearly define what you want to achieve (e.g., lose 10 pounds, run 30 minutes daily).
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Provide a way to evaluate success (e.g., weight on the scale, steps taken).
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Ensure you have the necessary time and resources.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: Ensure it is an achievable and sustainable goal.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Set a start date, frequency, and deadline for achieving your goals (e.g., 6 months, 1 year).
𝟑. 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐬:
Divide large goals into manageable tasks (e.g., walk 10 minutes daily for 3 weeks, then increase to 15 minutes).
𝟒. 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Outline specific strategies to achieve your goals (e.g., joining a gym, consulting a nutritionist, tracking calories). Schedule time for activities and make them a priority.
𝟓. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝:
Regularly track your progress and celebrate small wins.
𝟔. 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲:
Share your goals with friends, family, or a healthcare professional for encouragement and feedback.
𝟕. 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬:
Reward yourself for achieving milestones and reaching your goals.
𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐟 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Walk more every day.
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Walk 15 minutes after work on weekdays.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Set reminders on my calendar.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: I can find 15 extra minutes daily to walk.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Start tomorrow, re-evaluate in 6 weeks.
𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜: Get one more hour of sleep nightly
𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Go to sleep 15 minutes earlier each night.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: Turn off the TV or put down my phone an hour earlier and read a book instead.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜: Changing bedtime gradually is easier than making a sudden change.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝: Start tonight and see how I feel in four weeks.
𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝟒𝟎 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝
During the September 29, 2025, Special Board Meeting, the Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement was approved. This purchasing agreement is through BAI Group, LLC. While the field will be connected to the grid at Route 40, the entire school district will receive energy cost savings. Key points of the project are as follows:
• The power production projections show that this solar array could produce close to half of the electricity consumed by the whole school system.
• The solar array will not be installed on GCPS property, but would connect to the power grid at Route 40 Elementary School.
• GCPS will not incur any costs for this project. The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) has awarded Garrett County an energy grant of $750,000, which will be passed to BAI and applied to the installation of equipment, maintenance, and other related expenses.
• The energy saving for the first year is projected to be around $210,000.
• Completion of this project is expected to be in the Fall of 2026.
“The approval of this agreement marks a significant step forward in Garrett County Public Schools’ commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and innovation,” said Mr. Robert Witt, GCPS Director of System Operations. “By leveraging state grant funding and renewable energy partnerships, GCPS is poised to reduce long-term operating costs while supporting cleaner energy solutions for the community.”
GCPS looks forward to the completion of the solar project, anticipated for Fall 2026, and the positive impact it will bring to both students and taxpayers for years to come.
During the September 29, 2025, Special Board Meeting, the Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement was approved. This purchasing agreement is through BAI Group, LLC. While the field will be connected to the grid at Route 40, the entire school district will receive energy cost savings. Key points of the project are as follows:
• The power production projections show that this solar array could produce close to half of the electricity consumed by the whole school system.
• The solar array will not be installed on GCPS property, but would connect to the power grid at Route 40 Elementary School.
• GCPS will not incur any costs for this project. The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) has awarded Garrett County an energy grant of $750,000, which will be passed to BAI and applied to the installation of equipment, maintenance, and other related expenses.
• The energy saving for the first year is projected to be around $210,000.
• Completion of this project is expected to be in the Fall of 2026.
“The approval of this agreement marks a significant step forward in Garrett County Public Schools’ commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and innovation,” said Mr. Robert Witt, GCPS Director of System Operations. “By leveraging state grant funding and renewable energy partnerships, GCPS is poised to reduce long-term operating costs while supporting cleaner energy solutions for the community.”
GCPS looks forward to the completion of the solar project, anticipated for Fall 2026, and the positive impact it will bring to both students and taxpayers for years to come.
𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲
Grantsville Elementary was placed in a SECURE status earlier today out of an abundance of caution. On the neighboring property, an individual with a crossbow was observed. Law enforcement determined the individual was hunting on private property. The school has returned to normal operations.
Grantsville Elementary was placed in a SECURE status earlier today out of an abundance of caution. On the neighboring property, an individual with a crossbow was observed. Law enforcement determined the individual was hunting on private property. The school has returned to normal operations.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐓: 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝
GCPS ALERT: The SECURE status at Grantsville has been lifted. All operations have returned to normal. We appreciate your cooperation during this time.
GCPS ALERT: The SECURE status at Grantsville has been lifted. All operations have returned to normal. We appreciate your cooperation during this time.
GCPS EMERGENCY ALERT: A SECURE is in effect at Grantsville Elementary
GCPS EMERGENCY ALERT: A SECURE is in effect at Grantsville Elementary. This means that while the school building is secured, operations continue as usual inside. Students are safe. We will keep families updated as we receive new information.
GCPS EMERGENCY ALERT: A SECURE is in effect at Grantsville Elementary. This means that while the school building is secured, operations continue as usual inside. Students are safe. We will keep families updated as we receive new information.