The Garrett County Board of Education has revised the start time for the Special Public Session on Monday, September 29, 2025. The Board will open the meeting at 2:45 p.m., after which time they will go into Executive Session until 3:00 p.m. to discuss an Administrative Function topic. The Board will reopen the Public Session at 3:05 p.m. for Public Comment, followed by two agenda topics: Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement and the FY2025 Financial Statements and the Results of the Financial Audit. The Board will recess the Public Session at approximately 4:45 p.m. to go into Executive Session to discuss a personnel topic.
The Special Public Session will be held at Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed via https://youtube.com/live/l1OKwdE5gao?feature=share for public review.
The Board reserves the right to go into closed session if needed pursuant to the General Provision §3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
This past weekend, GCPS administrators attended the Maryland State Teacher of the Year Gala to celebrate excellence in education across our state. 🎉✨
The event highlighted the incredible work of teachers who inspire, innovate, and make a lasting difference in the lives of students every day. We are grateful for the opportunity to honor GCPS Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Laura Witt, along with other educators across the state. 👏🍎 #MDTOY #GCPSMDproud #CelebrateTeachers
The event highlighted the incredible work of teachers who inspire, innovate, and make a lasting difference in the lives of students every day. We are grateful for the opportunity to honor GCPS Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Laura Witt, along with other educators across the state. 👏🍎 #MDTOY #GCPSMDproud #CelebrateTeachers
Garrett County Health Department is offering the annual FREE FluMist/Flu Vaccine Clinic. COVID-19 vaccinations will not be offered for students at these clinics. If interested, contact the health department or your healthcare provider. Please note that children diagnosed with asthma, cochlear implants, or immunocompromised are not eligible to receive FluMist. A preservative-free flu vaccine will also be available. The options for the flu vaccine are listed for selection on the registration form. Please see the list below for dates and the registration links.
To register your child/children for the clinic, go to the active link below associated with your student's school and fill out the registration form. Please enter the child’s legal first and last name. You will be required to upload a picture of the current insurance card. If the child does not have insurance, please select “no insurance.” If you have more than one child to register in the SAME school, you will be able to click on the link again and complete another registration. If your child/children go to different schools, please use the link associated with the child's school.
Please use the active links below to register.
If you are having trouble registering or need help, contact the nurse at your child's school for assistance.
𝟎𝟗/𝟐𝟗/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Broad Ford School - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/d331bea9-bd42-4c3a-a9be-419cc583aeed
Yough Glades Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/d6e3c32d-366c-4922-bff2-fc92b0a15ad0
𝟎𝟗/𝟑𝟎/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Southern High - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/b375f2c3-6d86-4a22-a0c3-5df8e9520f6d
Crellin Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/c44c27d4-ebcd-4dc3-aaa4-5b5095a87c3d
Swan Meadow School - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/c82bfed9-08ad-44fb-b7d7-d33003e7ad99
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟏/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Northern High - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/8be52b46-159f-4409-a5af-e3af7ad3817f
Northern Middle - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/0c9b89e1-4060-4062-bfa1-9047ccdbf418
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟐/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Grantsville Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/7c94b2f0-1215-4fa6-bbf5-265aaff6e29d
RT 40 Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/78398fb9-ba62-488a-9dad-8b0661793597
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟑/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Accident Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/b46cdfbb-7066-4536-bda4-6e1be4ea7106
Friendsville Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/dd1d995a-360e-49bf-a9e0-51c44e2f340a
To register your child/children for the clinic, go to the active link below associated with your student's school and fill out the registration form. Please enter the child’s legal first and last name. You will be required to upload a picture of the current insurance card. If the child does not have insurance, please select “no insurance.” If you have more than one child to register in the SAME school, you will be able to click on the link again and complete another registration. If your child/children go to different schools, please use the link associated with the child's school.
Please use the active links below to register.
If you are having trouble registering or need help, contact the nurse at your child's school for assistance.
𝟎𝟗/𝟐𝟗/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Broad Ford School - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/d331bea9-bd42-4c3a-a9be-419cc583aeed
Yough Glades Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/d6e3c32d-366c-4922-bff2-fc92b0a15ad0
𝟎𝟗/𝟑𝟎/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Southern High - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/b375f2c3-6d86-4a22-a0c3-5df8e9520f6d
Crellin Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/c44c27d4-ebcd-4dc3-aaa4-5b5095a87c3d
Swan Meadow School - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/c82bfed9-08ad-44fb-b7d7-d33003e7ad99
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟏/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Northern High - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/8be52b46-159f-4409-a5af-e3af7ad3817f
Northern Middle - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/0c9b89e1-4060-4062-bfa1-9047ccdbf418
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟐/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Grantsville Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/7c94b2f0-1215-4fa6-bbf5-265aaff6e29d
RT 40 Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/78398fb9-ba62-488a-9dad-8b0661793597
𝟏𝟎/𝟎𝟑/𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Accident Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/b46cdfbb-7066-4536-bda4-6e1be4ea7106
Friendsville Elementary - https://forms-v2.pattrac.app/form/GARRETT/dd1d995a-360e-49bf-a9e0-51c44e2f340a
𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞
The Garrett County Board of Education has revised the start time for the Special Public Session on Monday, September 29, 2025. The Board will open the meeting at 2:45 p.m., after which time they will go into Executive Session until 3:00 p.m. to discuss an Administrative Function topic. The Board will reopen the Public Session at 3:05 p.m. for Public Comment, followed by two agenda topics: Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement and the FY2025 Financial Statements and the Results of the Financial Audit. The Board will recess the Public Session at approximately 4:45 p.m. to go into Executive Session to discuss a personnel topic.
The Special Public Session will be held at Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed for public review.
The Board reserves the right to go into closed session if needed pursuant to the General Provision §3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
The Garrett County Board of Education has revised the start time for the Special Public Session on Monday, September 29, 2025. The Board will open the meeting at 2:45 p.m., after which time they will go into Executive Session until 3:00 p.m. to discuss an Administrative Function topic. The Board will reopen the Public Session at 3:05 p.m. for Public Comment, followed by two agenda topics: Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement and the FY2025 Financial Statements and the Results of the Financial Audit. The Board will recess the Public Session at approximately 4:45 p.m. to go into Executive Session to discuss a personnel topic.
The Special Public Session will be held at Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed for public review.
The Board reserves the right to go into closed session if needed pursuant to the General Provision §3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will administer a Behavioral Health Screener to all students, from Pre-K through 12th grades, starting the week of September 29, 2025. This is part of our approved Strategic Plan, which is aligned with the Blueprint from Maryland’s Future.
The screener is designed to help students reflect on their experiences at school, including how they feel about their classroom environment, their interactions with peers and teachers, and the overall school climate. It’s a short survey that should take no more than 10 minutes to complete for students in grades 3 through 12. For students in grades Pre-K to 2, the teacher will complete the Behavioral Health Screener.
The results of this screener will provide important insights into how students are experiencing school and how we can improve to better meet their needs. If a student is unsure about any question, they will have the option to skip it. There is an opt-out provision for parents and guardians who choose to do so for their child. For more details about the screener, please refer to https://www.gcps.net/page/behavioral-health-screener or contact the Student Services Department at 301-334-8926.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will administer a Behavioral Health Screener to all students, from Pre-K through 12th grades, starting the week of September 29, 2025. This is part of our approved Strategic Plan, which is aligned with the Blueprint from Maryland’s Future.
The screener is designed to help students reflect on their experiences at school, including how they feel about their classroom environment, their interactions with peers and teachers, and the overall school climate. It’s a short survey that should take no more than 10 minutes to complete for students in grades 3 through 12. For students in grades Pre-K to 2, the teacher will complete the Behavioral Health Screener.
The results of this screener will provide important insights into how students are experiencing school and how we can improve to better meet their needs. If a student is unsure about any question, they will have the option to skip it. There is an opt-out provision for parents and guardians who choose to do so for their child. For more details about the screener, please refer to https://www.gcps.net/page/behavioral-health-screener or contact the Student Services Department at 301-334-8926.
On this week's #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on building habits by looking at adequate sleep.
According to the Mayo Clinic, sleep is an essential element of success for children. Children who don't get a sufficient amount of sleep may not appear to be sleepy. Instead, they may struggle with issues such as attentiveness, hyperactivity, aggression, or disruptive behavior. Sleep deprivation reduces the immune system's ability to defend against colds and the flu.
The National Sleep Institute recommends the following hours of sleep:
⏰12–17 for newborns and infants
⏰11–14 for ages 1–2
⏰10–13 for ages 3–5
⏰9–11 for ages 6–13
⏰8–10 for ages 14–17
⏰7–9 for adults
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧
🔹𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫: During sleep, the body releases growth hormones, repairs tissues, and restores energy.
🔹𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 & 𝐂𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Quality sleep is vital for memory consolidation, problem-solving, decision-making, and overall brain development.
🔹𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦: Adequate sleep boosts the immune system, helping children fight off illnesses and infections.
🔹𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Sufficient sleep helps children manage their moods, reducing irritability and improving behavior.
🔹𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: Sleep plays a role in regulating appetite hormones, which can help with weight management.
🔹𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲: Sleep is crucial for retaining information, improving concentration, and performing better academically.
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐂𝐀𝐍 𝐃𝐎: 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐬
🔹Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends, to help regulate your child's internal clock.
🔹Create a relaxing bedtime with a predictable routine, like a warm bath and reading a story, which signals to the body that it's time to wind down.
🔹Ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and comfortable for optimal sleep.
🔹Reduce exposure to screens, especially in the hours before bedtime, as the blue light can interfere with sleep.
🔹Encourage regular physical activity during the day, as it can contribute to better sleep.
🔹Please make sleep a family priority by showing a good example with your own sleep habits.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.mayoclinic.org/.
According to the Mayo Clinic, sleep is an essential element of success for children. Children who don't get a sufficient amount of sleep may not appear to be sleepy. Instead, they may struggle with issues such as attentiveness, hyperactivity, aggression, or disruptive behavior. Sleep deprivation reduces the immune system's ability to defend against colds and the flu.
The National Sleep Institute recommends the following hours of sleep:
⏰12–17 for newborns and infants
⏰11–14 for ages 1–2
⏰10–13 for ages 3–5
⏰9–11 for ages 6–13
⏰8–10 for ages 14–17
⏰7–9 for adults
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧
🔹𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫: During sleep, the body releases growth hormones, repairs tissues, and restores energy.
🔹𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 & 𝐂𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Quality sleep is vital for memory consolidation, problem-solving, decision-making, and overall brain development.
🔹𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦: Adequate sleep boosts the immune system, helping children fight off illnesses and infections.
🔹𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Sufficient sleep helps children manage their moods, reducing irritability and improving behavior.
🔹𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: Sleep plays a role in regulating appetite hormones, which can help with weight management.
🔹𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲: Sleep is crucial for retaining information, improving concentration, and performing better academically.
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐂𝐀𝐍 𝐃𝐎: 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐬
🔹Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends, to help regulate your child's internal clock.
🔹Create a relaxing bedtime with a predictable routine, like a warm bath and reading a story, which signals to the body that it's time to wind down.
🔹Ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and comfortable for optimal sleep.
🔹Reduce exposure to screens, especially in the hours before bedtime, as the blue light can interfere with sleep.
🔹Encourage regular physical activity during the day, as it can contribute to better sleep.
🔹Please make sleep a family priority by showing a good example with your own sleep habits.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.mayoclinic.org/.
𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐉𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦
Supported by the Educational Theatre Foundation & Mountain City Center for the Arts
After a three-month selection process, Mountain City Center for the Arts has awarded and named Broad Ford School as the newest selection for the Jumpstart Theatre program 2025/2026 season, and the third elementary school in the nationwide program. The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF), in collaboration with New York City-based companies iTheatrics, Broadway Media, and Music Theatre International (MTI), created JumpStart Theatre, a three-year scalable program designed to build sustainable musical theatre programs in underserved schools that previously had none.
The Broad Ford School Theatre Program will be led by Mrs. Annalea Burgess, Mrs. Kendra Rinard, Mrs. Paula Browning, Mrs. Amy Egress, and supported by school Administrators Mrs. Rachel Wise and Ms. Laura Dahlen.
“I am so excited for the opportunity to bring more theatre to our school and put on our first school play! I can’t wait to see our Broad Ford Broadway Bobcats shine on stage. A huge thank you to Jumpstart and Mrs. Burgess for making this possible!” ~Mrs. Rachel Wise, Principal Broad Ford School
The selection process included a formal written application, site visits to the schools, and interviews with administrators and the faculty who would be spearheading the program. Jenn Katona, President of the Educational Theatre Foundation and Executive Director of the Educational Theatre Association, says, "The JumpStart Theatre program is a transformative initiative that empowers schools to create sustainable theatre programs, fostering creativity, teamwork, and confidence in students who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Through Mountain City Center for the Arts, the Educational Theatre Foundation is delighted to provide resources for teachers and schools needed to ensure every student can experience the magic of theatre. Involving children in JumpStart Theatre programs creates spaces where every student belongs in their school community." Each school will receive services and materials valued at $12,000 in the form of training, mentoring, and production support for a full-scale show for their community. Students will be involved in every aspect of the production, and Mountain City Center for the Arts, with the ETF, will also host an annual JumpStart Theatre showcase, bringing all the participants together to share their work. “We are thrilled to help build this
incredible program at Broad Ford,” states MCCA CEO and owner Coty Forno. “The team at Broad Ford is incredible, and the students and community are going to thrive and grow from this unique experience.”
The selected schools make a three-year commitment, and teams of three or more teachers from each school will participate in professional development “boot camps” in a variety of areas led
by a master teacher in the fall, winter, and spring. These workshops will provide training in all areas of musical theatre production, with the goal of empowering the teacher teams to guide the programs independently.
For questions about the JumpStart Theatre Program and application process, visit https://www.mymcca.com/jumpstarttheatre.
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬:
Mountain City Center for the Arts is an award-winning, inclusive performing arts conservatory offering the highest quality art education. Our mission is to motivate compassionate and
courageous artist by:
● Committing to excellence in arts education
● Creating a brave and supportive environment
● Cultivating kindness, diversity, and inclusivity
● Empowering creativity
● Promoting positive self-expression, self-acceptance, and acceptance of all people
● Focusing on individual personal growth
● Instilling the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience
● Guiding artists to fulfill their dreams
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The Educational Theatre Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association, whose shared vision is to build a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre. ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. Learn how at foundation.schooltheatre.org.
Supported by the Educational Theatre Foundation & Mountain City Center for the Arts
After a three-month selection process, Mountain City Center for the Arts has awarded and named Broad Ford School as the newest selection for the Jumpstart Theatre program 2025/2026 season, and the third elementary school in the nationwide program. The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF), in collaboration with New York City-based companies iTheatrics, Broadway Media, and Music Theatre International (MTI), created JumpStart Theatre, a three-year scalable program designed to build sustainable musical theatre programs in underserved schools that previously had none.
The Broad Ford School Theatre Program will be led by Mrs. Annalea Burgess, Mrs. Kendra Rinard, Mrs. Paula Browning, Mrs. Amy Egress, and supported by school Administrators Mrs. Rachel Wise and Ms. Laura Dahlen.
“I am so excited for the opportunity to bring more theatre to our school and put on our first school play! I can’t wait to see our Broad Ford Broadway Bobcats shine on stage. A huge thank you to Jumpstart and Mrs. Burgess for making this possible!” ~Mrs. Rachel Wise, Principal Broad Ford School
The selection process included a formal written application, site visits to the schools, and interviews with administrators and the faculty who would be spearheading the program. Jenn Katona, President of the Educational Theatre Foundation and Executive Director of the Educational Theatre Association, says, "The JumpStart Theatre program is a transformative initiative that empowers schools to create sustainable theatre programs, fostering creativity, teamwork, and confidence in students who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Through Mountain City Center for the Arts, the Educational Theatre Foundation is delighted to provide resources for teachers and schools needed to ensure every student can experience the magic of theatre. Involving children in JumpStart Theatre programs creates spaces where every student belongs in their school community." Each school will receive services and materials valued at $12,000 in the form of training, mentoring, and production support for a full-scale show for their community. Students will be involved in every aspect of the production, and Mountain City Center for the Arts, with the ETF, will also host an annual JumpStart Theatre showcase, bringing all the participants together to share their work. “We are thrilled to help build this
incredible program at Broad Ford,” states MCCA CEO and owner Coty Forno. “The team at Broad Ford is incredible, and the students and community are going to thrive and grow from this unique experience.”
The selected schools make a three-year commitment, and teams of three or more teachers from each school will participate in professional development “boot camps” in a variety of areas led
by a master teacher in the fall, winter, and spring. These workshops will provide training in all areas of musical theatre production, with the goal of empowering the teacher teams to guide the programs independently.
For questions about the JumpStart Theatre Program and application process, visit https://www.mymcca.com/jumpstarttheatre.
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬:
Mountain City Center for the Arts is an award-winning, inclusive performing arts conservatory offering the highest quality art education. Our mission is to motivate compassionate and
courageous artist by:
● Committing to excellence in arts education
● Creating a brave and supportive environment
● Cultivating kindness, diversity, and inclusivity
● Empowering creativity
● Promoting positive self-expression, self-acceptance, and acceptance of all people
● Focusing on individual personal growth
● Instilling the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience
● Guiding artists to fulfill their dreams
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
The Educational Theatre Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association, whose shared vision is to build a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre. ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. Learn how at foundation.schooltheatre.org.
𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold a Special Public Session on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. to discuss the Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement and the FY2025 Financial Statements and Single Audit Results. After these two topics are discussed, the Board will recess the Public Session to go into Executive Session to discuss personnel topics. The Public Session will be held at Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed for public review.
Public comment will be received at the beginning of the meeting prior to the agenda topics.
The Board reserves the right to go into closed session if needed 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 a Special Public Session on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. to discuss the Route 40 Elementary School Solar Power Purchase Agreement and the FY2025 Financial Statements and Single Audit Results. After these two topics are discussed, the Board will recess the Public Session to go into Executive Session to discuss personnel topics. The Public Session will be held at Dennett Road Educational Complex in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed for public review.
Public comment will be received at the beginning of the meeting prior to the agenda topics.
The Board reserves the right to go into closed session if needed pursuant to the General Provision §3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐚 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬
Samantha Funding the Arts has generously presented the Fine Arts teachers of Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) with a $2,800 contribution to support student transportation to the Performing Arts Center at Garrett College.
This funding will make it possible for GCPS students to experience live performances presented through Stage West, enriching classroom instruction and strengthening connections to the Maryland Fine Arts Standards. By helping students access professional performances, Samantha Funding the Arts is ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant and essential part of education in Garrett County.
PICTURED:
Front row, left to right: Katelyn Martin, Music Teacher, Crellin; Leah Shaw, Music Teacher, Broad Ford; June McCloskey, Samantha Funding the Arts; Sally Shollenberger, Music Teacher, Accident and Friendsville; Ronni DiGioia, Art Teacher, Yough Glades; and Erin White, Theater Teacher, Southern High.
Back Row: Debi Beachy, Music Teacher, Grantsville and Route 40; Ben Kinsey, Music Teacher, Broad Ford; and Michael McEwen, Theater Teacher, Northern High.
On this week's #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on building good habits by looking at good hydration.
All living things need water to survive. Along with milk, plain water is the best drink choice for kids. Why? It's super healthy with zero calories & no added sugar. It's good for the body - it keeps joints, bones, and teeth healthy, helps the blood circulate, and can help kids maintain a healthy weight into adulthood. Being well-hydrated improves mood, memory, and attention in children. And it's economical – tap water is much less expensive than sports drinks, sodas, or juice. (Janine Rethy, MD, MPH, FAAP)
How to help your kids #ChooseWater:
🔷 You are your child's best role model. When you set a good example, your child learns healthy habits.
🔷 Start the water habit early! Kids who drink water early are more likely to keep drinking it as they get older.
🔷 Make using water bottles fun -- decorate them! Give them as gifts. Let them pick out their own.
🔷 Change up the flavor by adding fresh fruit like lemon or pineapple, or try a slice of cucumber for a fresh new taste.
For additional information, please visit healthychildren.org.
All living things need water to survive. Along with milk, plain water is the best drink choice for kids. Why? It's super healthy with zero calories & no added sugar. It's good for the body - it keeps joints, bones, and teeth healthy, helps the blood circulate, and can help kids maintain a healthy weight into adulthood. Being well-hydrated improves mood, memory, and attention in children. And it's economical – tap water is much less expensive than sports drinks, sodas, or juice. (Janine Rethy, MD, MPH, FAAP)
How to help your kids #ChooseWater:
🔷 You are your child's best role model. When you set a good example, your child learns healthy habits.
🔷 Start the water habit early! Kids who drink water early are more likely to keep drinking it as they get older.
🔷 Make using water bottles fun -- decorate them! Give them as gifts. Let them pick out their own.
🔷 Change up the flavor by adding fresh fruit like lemon or pineapple, or try a slice of cucumber for a fresh new taste.
For additional information, please visit healthychildren.org.
𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞-𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝟗/𝟏𝟕/𝟐𝟓
Please take note of the following calendar reminder from Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS). GCPS will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, for staff development in the afternoon. Staff will participate in school-based professional learning in the afternoon. Full calendar details are available at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
Please take note of the following calendar reminder from Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS). GCPS will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, for staff development in the afternoon. Staff will participate in school-based professional learning in the afternoon. Full calendar details are available at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
🚨 Now Hiring: Substitute Custodians! 🚨
Garrett County Public Schools is seeking dependable individuals to join our team as substitute custodians. These positions are essential in keeping our schools safe, clean, and welcoming for students and staff every day.
💼 Flexible scheduling
🏫 Work in a school community near you
✅ Make a difference for our students and staff
If you’re reliable and ready to help support our schools, we’d love to hear from you!
👉 Apply today: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Substitute
#GCPSMD #NowHiring #Custodians #TeamGCPSMD #SupportOurSchools
Garrett County Public Schools is seeking dependable individuals to join our team as substitute custodians. These positions are essential in keeping our schools safe, clean, and welcoming for students and staff every day.
💼 Flexible scheduling
🏫 Work in a school community near you
✅ Make a difference for our students and staff
If you’re reliable and ready to help support our schools, we’d love to hear from you!
👉 Apply today: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Substitute
#GCPSMD #NowHiring #Custodians #TeamGCPSMD #SupportOurSchools
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐭 𝐍𝐆𝐇𝐒 & 𝐒𝐆𝐇𝐒
During the September Board Meeting, Mr. Paul Edwards, Director of Secondary Education, CTE & Athletics, shared a recommendation from the School Activities Review/Evaluation Committee to add a Swimming Program at both Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools. The Board unanimously approved this request.
The swimming program will be a part of the winter athletic season, with students in grades 9 through 12 eligible to participate. Teams will start up beginning with the 2025-26 season. Practices and home competitions will take place at the CARC at Garrett College.
During the September Board Meeting, Mr. Paul Edwards, Director of Secondary Education, CTE & Athletics, shared a recommendation from the School Activities Review/Evaluation Committee to add a Swimming Program at both Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools. The Board unanimously approved this request.
The swimming program will be a part of the winter athletic season, with students in grades 9 through 12 eligible to participate. Teams will start up beginning with the 2025-26 season. Practices and home competitions will take place at the CARC at Garrett College.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐚 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫!
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Human Resources Department is thrilled to announce the upcoming substitute teacher training session on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. All those who are interested in becoming substitute teachers for GCPS are welcome to register and join us.
Please be aware that registration is necessary ahead of time to attend this training. Additional information will be supplied upon registering for the training. To begin registration, please visit https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/ and look for the substitute teacher candidate pool job posting.
Any potential candidate who is unable to attend this training but is interested is still encouraged to apply. Questions may be directed to Ms. Angela Flanigan, HR Manager, at 301-334-8904.
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Human Resources Department is thrilled to announce the upcoming substitute teacher training session on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. All those who are interested in becoming substitute teachers for GCPS are welcome to register and join us.
Please be aware that registration is necessary ahead of time to attend this training. Additional information will be supplied upon registering for the training. To begin registration, please visit https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/ and look for the substitute teacher candidate pool job posting.
Any potential candidate who is unable to attend this training but is interested is still encouraged to apply. Questions may be directed to Ms. Angela Flanigan, HR Manager, at 301-334-8904.
𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐨𝐫𝐲
During the September Monthly Board Meeting, Mr. Jason Shank, Administrator of the Hickory Environmental Education Center, presented a Tree Canopy Classroom project to the Board. This project is being made possible thanks to a grant awarded through the Community Trust Foundation, graciously funded by the Naylor Family Trust Fund. The tree canopy classroom and elevated walkway will be ADA accessible. Students will be able to view and study trees from the canopy, not just the forest floor. Hickory is a part of Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS). All GCPS students complete lessons at Hickory for environmental literacy. Work on the classroom is slated to begin in October 2025.
Pictured left to right are:
Jason Shank, Hickory Administrator and Planetarium Director, GCPS
Leah Shaffer, Executive Director, Community Trust Foundation
Tom Carr, Treasurer, GCPS Foundation
During the September Monthly Board Meeting, Mr. Jason Shank, Administrator of the Hickory Environmental Education Center, presented a Tree Canopy Classroom project to the Board. This project is being made possible thanks to a grant awarded through the Community Trust Foundation, graciously funded by the Naylor Family Trust Fund. The tree canopy classroom and elevated walkway will be ADA accessible. Students will be able to view and study trees from the canopy, not just the forest floor. Hickory is a part of Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS). All GCPS students complete lessons at Hickory for environmental literacy. Work on the classroom is slated to begin in October 2025.
Pictured left to right are:
Jason Shank, Hickory Administrator and Planetarium Director, GCPS
Leah Shaffer, Executive Director, Community Trust Foundation
Tom Carr, Treasurer, GCPS Foundation
𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓–𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫
Dr. Brenda McCartney, Superintendent of Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS), has announced her plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year. Her retirement will take effect on June 30, 2026.
Dr. McCartney stated that the decision to retire—her second from GCPS—was made with mixed emotions. “I find what I do very personally rewarding. My successor will inherit a district filled with talented staff, fantastic students, and a supportive community,” she said. Over the coming months, Dr. McCartney will work closely with the Board of Education and her successor, once appointed, to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Dr. McCartney’s career in education spans more than five decades, beginning in 1971. Many of those years have been spent serving Garrett County students in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, teaching principal at Kitzmiller Elementary, central office administrator, and, most recently, Superintendent of Schools.
“It has been a privilege to work with the caring and talented people in our district whose singular focus has been our students,” Dr. McCartney noted. She expressed gratitude to the Board of Education members she has partnered with throughout her tenure, emphasizing their shared commitment to student success, stewardship, and service to the community. Dr. McCartney added, “I am proud of our shared legacy reflected in instructional initiatives; student and public school advocacy efforts at the local and state level; and capital improvement projects that reflect this district’s pride in its students and the importance of their educational experience.”
The Garrett County Board of Education will begin planning for the search and selection process for the next Superintendent of Schools in the coming months.
Dr. Brenda McCartney, Superintendent of Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS), has announced her plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year. Her retirement will take effect on June 30, 2026.
Dr. McCartney stated that the decision to retire—her second from GCPS—was made with mixed emotions. “I find what I do very personally rewarding. My successor will inherit a district filled with talented staff, fantastic students, and a supportive community,” she said. Over the coming months, Dr. McCartney will work closely with the Board of Education and her successor, once appointed, to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Dr. McCartney’s career in education spans more than five decades, beginning in 1971. Many of those years have been spent serving Garrett County students in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, teaching principal at Kitzmiller Elementary, central office administrator, and, most recently, Superintendent of Schools.
“It has been a privilege to work with the caring and talented people in our district whose singular focus has been our students,” Dr. McCartney noted. She expressed gratitude to the Board of Education members she has partnered with throughout her tenure, emphasizing their shared commitment to student success, stewardship, and service to the community. Dr. McCartney added, “I am proud of our shared legacy reflected in instructional initiatives; student and public school advocacy efforts at the local and state level; and capital improvement projects that reflect this district’s pride in its students and the importance of their educational experience.”
The Garrett County Board of Education will begin planning for the search and selection process for the next Superintendent of Schools in the coming months.
On this #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on building habits. Today, we focus on how to Build A Habit of Physical Fitness.
As a parent, you can help shape your child’s attitudes and behaviors regarding physical activity. Knowing the recommendations is a great place to start. Encourage your child to be physically active for at least 60 minutes each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. Here are some ways you can do this:
⮞ Start early. Young children love to play and be active. Encouraging lots of safe and unstructured movement and play can help build a strong foundation for an active lifestyle.
⮞ Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself.
⮞ Make physical activity part of your family’s daily routine by taking family walks or playing active games together.
⮞ Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity.
⮞ Take young people to places where they can be active, such as public parks, community baseball fields, or basketball courts.
⮞ Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities.
⮞ Make physical activity fun. Fun activities can be anything your child enjoys, either structured or non-structured. Activities can range from team or individual sports to recreational activities such as walking, running, skating, bicycling, swimming, playground activities, or free-time play.
⮞ Instead of watching television after dinner, encourage your child to find fun activities to do on their own or with friends and family, such as walking, playing chase, or riding bikes.
Be safe! Always provide protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads, or knee pads for activities, like riding bicycles or scooters, skateboarding, roller skating, rock-wall climbing, and other activities where there may be a high risk of injuries. Ensure also that activities are age-appropriate for your child.
Visit the Move Your Way website for more information on helping kids become more active https://odphp.health.gov/moveyourway/get-kids-active.
As a parent, you can help shape your child’s attitudes and behaviors regarding physical activity. Knowing the recommendations is a great place to start. Encourage your child to be physically active for at least 60 minutes each day, with activities ranging from informal, active play to organized sports. Here are some ways you can do this:
⮞ Start early. Young children love to play and be active. Encouraging lots of safe and unstructured movement and play can help build a strong foundation for an active lifestyle.
⮞ Set a positive example by leading an active lifestyle yourself.
⮞ Make physical activity part of your family’s daily routine by taking family walks or playing active games together.
⮞ Give your children equipment that encourages physical activity.
⮞ Take young people to places where they can be active, such as public parks, community baseball fields, or basketball courts.
⮞ Be positive about the physical activities in which your child participates and encourage them to be interested in new activities.
⮞ Make physical activity fun. Fun activities can be anything your child enjoys, either structured or non-structured. Activities can range from team or individual sports to recreational activities such as walking, running, skating, bicycling, swimming, playground activities, or free-time play.
⮞ Instead of watching television after dinner, encourage your child to find fun activities to do on their own or with friends and family, such as walking, playing chase, or riding bikes.
Be safe! Always provide protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads, or knee pads for activities, like riding bicycles or scooters, skateboarding, roller skating, rock-wall climbing, and other activities where there may be a high risk of injuries. Ensure also that activities are age-appropriate for your child.
Visit the Move Your Way website for more information on helping kids become more active https://odphp.health.gov/moveyourway/get-kids-active.
GCPS Seeks Feedback on Proposed Virtual Learning Plan
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is seeking feedback for the proposed Virtual Learning Plan for the 2025-26 school year. All responses collected will be reviewed and shared with the Garrett County Board of Education members, Superintendent, and published as a public document on BoardDocs for the October 2025 Board Meeting. The window for accepting feedback on this form will run from September 10, 2025, through September 26, 2025. The plan may be reviewed at https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/garrett/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DKBGUU458E3C. To fill out the feedback form, please visit https://forms.gle/hNfGrMH1pBD3tuc49. For questions regarding the plan, please submit an inquiry to public.info@gcps.net or by calling 301-334-8931. The Board is expected to take action on this plan during the monthly meeting on October 14, 2025.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is seeking feedback for the proposed Virtual Learning Plan for the 2025-26 school year. All responses collected will be reviewed and shared with the Garrett County Board of Education members, Superintendent, and published as a public document on BoardDocs for the October 2025 Board Meeting. The window for accepting feedback on this form will run from September 10, 2025, through September 26, 2025. The plan may be reviewed at https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/garrett/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DKBGUU458E3C. To fill out the feedback form, please visit https://forms.gle/hNfGrMH1pBD3tuc49. For questions regarding the plan, please submit an inquiry to public.info@gcps.net or by calling 301-334-8931. The Board is expected to take action on this plan during the monthly meeting on October 14, 2025.
2024-25 MCAP and AP Results Shared
During the September Board Meeting, Mrs. Amy Warnick, Local Accountability Coordinator, and Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer, shared the results of the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams for the 2024–2025 school year. The data reflect both areas of strong achievement and continued opportunities for increased growth.
English Language Arts (ELA):
● GCPS ranked 13th among Maryland counties for overall ELA proficiency.
● The largest gain was in Grade 10, where 66.06% of students scored proficient, a 9.76% increase from the previous year.
Mathematics:
● GCPS ranked 9th in the state for math proficiency across grade levels.
● The strongest improvement was in Grade 8 math, with a proficiency rate of 37.24%, a 20.84% increase from the previous year.
Science:
● Proficiency in grade 5 remained stable, and grade 8 increased in comparison to the previous year.
● GCPS students consistently scored above the state average in science proficiency across grade levels.
Advanced Placement (AP):
● GCPS reported five exams with a 100% proficiency rate.
● Participation increased from 270 exams to 340 exams administered.
● Overall, AP success rates increased from 72.60% proficient to 73.82% proficient.
Looking Ahead – Instructional Priorities for 2025–2026
To strengthen outcomes moving forward, GCPS will continue prioritizing teaching the standards and student engagement using evidence-based practices to support all learners. Additionally, there is an emphasis on collaboration through Professional Learning Communities, utilizing resources for school improvement, and addressing literacy and math achievement gaps. “We’re encouraged by the gains we’ve seen in select areas, and remain committed to increased progress," said Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer. “We will continue to build on these successes while focusing on continuous improvement and providing high-quality learning opportunities for all students.
For full details on the results, please visit https://reportcard.msde.maryland.gov/.
During the September Board Meeting, Mrs. Amy Warnick, Local Accountability Coordinator, and Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer, shared the results of the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams for the 2024–2025 school year. The data reflect both areas of strong achievement and continued opportunities for increased growth.
English Language Arts (ELA):
● GCPS ranked 13th among Maryland counties for overall ELA proficiency.
● The largest gain was in Grade 10, where 66.06% of students scored proficient, a 9.76% increase from the previous year.
Mathematics:
● GCPS ranked 9th in the state for math proficiency across grade levels.
● The strongest improvement was in Grade 8 math, with a proficiency rate of 37.24%, a 20.84% increase from the previous year.
Science:
● Proficiency in grade 5 remained stable, and grade 8 increased in comparison to the previous year.
● GCPS students consistently scored above the state average in science proficiency across grade levels.
Advanced Placement (AP):
● GCPS reported five exams with a 100% proficiency rate.
● Participation increased from 270 exams to 340 exams administered.
● Overall, AP success rates increased from 72.60% proficient to 73.82% proficient.
Looking Ahead – Instructional Priorities for 2025–2026
To strengthen outcomes moving forward, GCPS will continue prioritizing teaching the standards and student engagement using evidence-based practices to support all learners. Additionally, there is an emphasis on collaboration through Professional Learning Communities, utilizing resources for school improvement, and addressing literacy and math achievement gaps. “We’re encouraged by the gains we’ve seen in select areas, and remain committed to increased progress," said Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer. “We will continue to build on these successes while focusing on continuous improvement and providing high-quality learning opportunities for all students.
For full details on the results, please visit https://reportcard.msde.maryland.gov/.
𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Northern Middle School in the cafeteria. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review via https://youtube.com/live/c-6h2zvv_8M?feature=share.
Public comment for the September Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session until 5:30 p.m. to discuss personnel topics and a legal matter. The Board of Education will reconvene for public session from 6:00 p.m. to 7:25 p.m. in the cafeteria. Time is set aside during the public session for the hearing of constituents at approximately 7:00 p.m. Please note, 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, September 9, 2025, at Northern Middle School in the cafeteria. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review via https://youtube.com/live/c-6h2zvv_8M?feature=share.
Public comment for the September Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session until 5:30 p.m. to discuss personnel topics and a legal matter. The Board of Education will reconvene for public session from 6:00 p.m. to 7:25 p.m. in the cafeteria. Time is set aside during the public session for the hearing of constituents at approximately 7:00 p.m. Please note, 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.
