📢 𝐖𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠! 📢
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is currently seeking three Speech/Language Facilitators to join our team!
✅ These are contractual positions
✅ Part-time applicants are welcome – if you’re interested but only available part-time, we encourage you to apply!
✅ Positions are available throughout the county.
Help make a difference in the lives of students by supporting their communication and learning needs.
👉 Apply today and learn more: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1
Please contact Ms. Angela Flanigan at angela.flanigan@gcps.net or 301-334-8904 with any questions.
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDcareers #NowHiring #SpeechLanguageFacilitator
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is currently seeking three Speech/Language Facilitators to join our team!
✅ These are contractual positions
✅ Part-time applicants are welcome – if you’re interested but only available part-time, we encourage you to apply!
✅ Positions are available throughout the county.
Help make a difference in the lives of students by supporting their communication and learning needs.
👉 Apply today and learn more: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/default.aspx?all=1
Please contact Ms. Angela Flanigan at angela.flanigan@gcps.net or 301-334-8904 with any questions.
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDcareers #NowHiring #SpeechLanguageFacilitator
🎉👏 Garrett County Public Schools proudly recognizes eight Central Office employees who have reached milestone years of service with our school system:
- Dr. Chelsie Manges, Director of Special Education, 10 years
- Mrs. Tonya Sanders-Manges, Early Childhood/Elementary Education Administrative Assistant, 5 years
- Ms. Angela Flanigan, HR Manager, 10 years; Mrs. Rebecca Sleeman, HR Generalist, 5 years
- Mr. Larry Carr, Manager of Operations, 20 years; Mr. Tim DeWitt, Maintenance Manager, 15 years; and Mrs. Mindy Durst, Operations Administrative Assistant, 5 years.
- Mr. Steve Shaffer, IT Specialist, 5 years
Not pictured: Gary Bittinger, Maintenance, 5 years
Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to students, families, and staff across the county are truly appreciated. Thank you for the positive impact you continue to make in education and in our community. 🌟
Please join us in celebrating their achievements and years of service to GCPS!
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDEmpowers #TeamGCPSMD #YearsOfService #ThankYou
🍎✨ 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤, 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬! ✨🍎
GCPS is excited to welcome back our incredible educators for the 2025–26 school year! We are looking forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and success for our students and staff.💡📚
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDPride #BackToSchool #ThankATeacher #2025-26SchoolYear
GCPS is excited to welcome back our incredible educators for the 2025–26 school year! We are looking forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and success for our students and staff.💡📚
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDPride #BackToSchool #ThankATeacher #2025-26SchoolYear
𝐆𝐚𝐂𝐨 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐝
Garrett County Public High School’s FIRST Robotics Competition Team 1629, GaCo, will be holding its second “biennial” telethon on Saturday, August 30, 2025. It will be broadcast as a live YouTube event.
The telethon will start at 7:00 am and continue until 11:29 pm for a total of 16 hours and 29 minutes in recognition of the team’s official number, 1629. During the telethon, GaCo will be reminiscing and celebrating its 21-year history as well as kicking off its Fall Fundraising Campaign. The team’s fundraising goal is $16,290, which will be used to help meet the team’s expenses for its 22nd year.
The team is excited to announce that Gary and Luanne Ruddell of Total Biz Fulfillment have offered to match the first $5,000 that is donated as part of their 2025 telethon. According to a team spokesperson, “We are so grateful to the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce for hosting our telethon and to the Ruddells for their very gracious offer. Their match will certainly get our fundraiser off to a great start and is so encouraging!”
During the telethon, GaCo will be talking with current and past members of the team and those who support GaCo, including representatives from Garrett County Public Schools. According to GaCo, “we want to highlight not only what we do, but many of the other wonderful nonprofits, businesses, and organizations that make Garrett County such a special place.”
A link to the telethon will be posted on the day of the event on the team’s website at stemreadykids.org and on the team’s social media. @gaco1629. Those interested in knowing more about the event can reach out to gaco@gcps.net.
𝐅𝐍𝐒 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐬 – 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) Department would like to remind families that next week will be the final week for meal handouts. To ensure students have meals beyond the program’s end date, FNS will be providing 10 days of meals instead of the normal 7 days during the final distribution.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬:
If you have not yet registered for the Summer Food Service program, you must bring your children with you to receive meals.
GCPS thanks all participating families for their support of the meal distribution program and encourages everyone to plan ahead for the last pick-up.
For more information, please contact Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, via phone at 301.334.8917 or 888.262.2792, or via email at scott.germain@gcps.net.
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) Department would like to remind families that next week will be the final week for meal handouts. To ensure students have meals beyond the program’s end date, FNS will be providing 10 days of meals instead of the normal 7 days during the final distribution.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬:
If you have not yet registered for the Summer Food Service program, you must bring your children with you to receive meals.
GCPS thanks all participating families for their support of the meal distribution program and encourages everyone to plan ahead for the last pick-up.
For more information, please contact Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, via phone at 301.334.8917 or 888.262.2792, or via email at scott.germain@gcps.net.
𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐭. 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓-𝟐𝟔 𝐁𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Transportation Department is pleased to announce that bus pass information is now available for the 2025–26 school year. Student bus passes will remain unchanged from last year, meaning families do not need to update their child’s bus pass unless there is a change in transportation needs for the coming school year. If a change to a student’s bus pass is needed, parents/guardians should use the following link as soon as possible to allow for timely updates: https://www.gcps.net/page/parent-forms.
“We’re excited to welcome students back to school and want to ensure that transportation is as seamless as possible,” said Mr. Ronald Bray, GCPS Supervisor of Transportation. “Keeping the same bus passes for returning students helps simplify the process for families and our staff.”
In addition, bus stop information for all GCPS students is now available. Families are encouraged to review their child’s stop location and time to ensure a smooth start to the school year.
For more information or to review bus stop details, visit the GCPS Transportation webpage at https://www.gcps.net/page/transportation or contact the department at 301-334-8907 or transportation@gcps.net.
𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
During the August 12, 2025, Board of Education Meeting, Mr. Robert Witt, Director of System Operations, provided a capital project update. During this update, he reviewed the four major projects that are currently taking place:
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 90% complete; multiple crews working extended hours, on track for completion before the new school year.
• 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 60% complete; front section’s first roofing layer expected before school starts, with remaining work continuing through fall and next summer.
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞: Nearing completion; awaiting electric service installation and final inspections.
• 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Delayed; Phase 1 completion now projected for March 15, 2026, with student occupancy set for April 7, 2026.
Mr. Witt was complimentary of the work being performed by each of the contractors on these projects. Additional updates will be provided as available.
During the August 12, 2025, Board of Education Meeting, Mr. Robert Witt, Director of System Operations, provided a capital project update. During this update, he reviewed the four major projects that are currently taking place:
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 90% complete; multiple crews working extended hours, on track for completion before the new school year.
• 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 60% complete; front section’s first roofing layer expected before school starts, with remaining work continuing through fall and next summer.
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞: Nearing completion; awaiting electric service installation and final inspections.
• 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Delayed; Phase 1 completion now projected for March 15, 2026, with student occupancy set for April 7, 2026.
Mr. Witt was complimentary of the work being performed by each of the contractors on these projects. Additional updates will be provided as available.
This week's #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday focuses on August as Immunization Month.
In Maryland, immunizations are required for children attending childcare and school primarily to protect them from preventable diseases and to maintain high vaccination rates, which are crucial for herd immunity. This helps safeguard the health of both vaccinated individuals and the broader community, including those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons or age restrictions.
- 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐡𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚 is a severe, potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, but can also impact the skin.
- 𝐓𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬, also known as lockjaw, is a severe bacterial infection that affects the muscles and nerves.
- 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐨, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious, disabling, and sometimes fatal disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis.
- 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐬 is a severe respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. It is VERY contagious. People with measles spread the virus by coughing or sneezing. Some people may suffer from severe complications, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and encephalitis (swelling of the brain). They may need to be hospitalized and could possibly die.
- 𝐌𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐬 is a contagious viral infection characterized by painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located near the ears. It is typically spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or through direct contact with infected saliva. While often mild, mumps can cause complications like meningitis, encephalitis, and orchitis (inflammation of the testicles).
- 𝐑𝐮𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral illness. It's usually mild in children, but it can be very dangerous for pregnant women and their unborn babies, potentially causing birth defects. Rubella is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing.
- 𝐇𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬 𝐁 is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. While some people recover from acute hepatitis B, others develop a chronic, long-term infection that can lead to serious liver problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It's characterized by a distinctive rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters, along with fever, fatigue, and headache. Varicella can lead to serious complications, particularly in infants, adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
- 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐜𝐚𝐥 disease is a serious illness caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It can lead to severe infections like meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and meningococcemia (bloodstream infection). These infections can be fatal or cause long-term disabilities.
Contact your healthcare provider or the Garrett County Health Department for more information on immunization-preventable diseases.
In Maryland, immunizations are required for children attending childcare and school primarily to protect them from preventable diseases and to maintain high vaccination rates, which are crucial for herd immunity. This helps safeguard the health of both vaccinated individuals and the broader community, including those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons or age restrictions.
- 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐡𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚 is a severe, potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, but can also impact the skin.
- 𝐓𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬, also known as lockjaw, is a severe bacterial infection that affects the muscles and nerves.
- 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐨, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious, disabling, and sometimes fatal disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis.
- 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐬 is a severe respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. It is VERY contagious. People with measles spread the virus by coughing or sneezing. Some people may suffer from severe complications, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and encephalitis (swelling of the brain). They may need to be hospitalized and could possibly die.
- 𝐌𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐬 is a contagious viral infection characterized by painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located near the ears. It is typically spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or through direct contact with infected saliva. While often mild, mumps can cause complications like meningitis, encephalitis, and orchitis (inflammation of the testicles).
- 𝐑𝐮𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral illness. It's usually mild in children, but it can be very dangerous for pregnant women and their unborn babies, potentially causing birth defects. Rubella is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing.
- 𝐇𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬 𝐁 is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. While some people recover from acute hepatitis B, others develop a chronic, long-term infection that can lead to serious liver problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It's characterized by a distinctive rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters, along with fever, fatigue, and headache. Varicella can lead to serious complications, particularly in infants, adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
- 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐜𝐚𝐥 disease is a serious illness caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It can lead to severe infections like meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord lining) and meningococcemia (bloodstream infection). These infections can be fatal or cause long-term disabilities.
Contact your healthcare provider or the Garrett County Health Department for more information on immunization-preventable diseases.
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
The Board will return to Executive Session in the Student Service’s Conference Room to continue Personnel discussions, and Administrative Function topics. The Board of Education will reconvene for public session from 6:00 p.m. to 7:20 p.m., which will be live-streamed via https://youtube.com/live/mW5BF6Aaxcs?feature=share. 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 Board will return to Executive Session in the Student Service’s Conference Room to continue Personnel discussions, and Administrative Function topics. The Board of Education will reconvene for public session from 6:00 p.m. to 7:20 p.m., which will be live-streamed via https://youtube.com/live/mW5BF6Aaxcs?feature=share. 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.
🚌 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥! 🚌
Our GCPS Transportation Department is hard at work conducting thorough bus inspections to ensure every ride to and from school is safe, reliable, and ready for the first day of the 2025–26 school year. 🚦🔧
We'll see you on September 2nd for a smooth and safe start for all our students!
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDproud #SchoolBusSafety #BackToSchool #BTS2025
Our GCPS Transportation Department is hard at work conducting thorough bus inspections to ensure every ride to and from school is safe, reliable, and ready for the first day of the 2025–26 school year. 🚦🔧
We'll see you on September 2nd for a smooth and safe start for all our students!
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDproud #SchoolBusSafety #BackToSchool #BTS2025
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, August 21, 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, August 21, 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.
𝐅𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services Department (FNS) is announcing changes to the Summer Meals distribution sites. Please take note of the closing or moving of the days/times at the following sites, effective August 8, 2025:
• 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟐:𝟒𝟓-𝟏:𝟎𝟎 𝐩.𝐦. Lake Ford United Methodist Church will close, and Divine Hope Church will close. 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟏:𝟎𝟎-𝟏𝟏:𝟏𝟓 𝐚.𝐦.
• 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: Altamont will close. Hope Village will close, and 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐡 𝐋𝐲𝐧𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟓:𝟑𝟎-𝟓:𝟒𝟓 𝐩.𝐦.
• 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟏:𝟎𝟎-𝟏𝟏:𝟏𝟓 𝐚.𝐦. Chestnut Grove United Methodist Church will close. Cassel Ridge will close. Bittinger Fire Hall will close. Swanton Methodist Church will close.
• 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: Upper Yough Put-in will close. Crellin Assembly of God will close. Mountain Village will close. Bloomington will close. Youghiogheny Mountain Resort will close.
Please check the other locations below for changes, as times may have been adjusted.
𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Crellin Methodist Church
57 Crellin Street, Crellin
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Friendsville Fire Hall
944 2nd Avenue, Friendsville
11:30-11:45 a.m.
Oakland Town Parking Lot
103 Town Park Lane, Oakland
11:35-11:50 a.m.
Northern High School
86 Pride Parkway, Accident
12:05-12:20 p.m.
Pleasant View South
200 Pleasant View Lane, Loch Lynn
12:20-12:35 p.m.
Garrett College, Parking Lot A
685 Mosser Road, McHenry
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Emmanuel United Methodist
29 Pocahontas Road, Frostburg
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Swanton Community Center
3335 Swanton Road, Swanton
5:35-5:50 p.m.
St Ann’s Mission/Avilton Community Center
8298 Avilton Lonaconing Road, Lonaconing
5:40-5:55 p.m.
Kitzmiller School
288 W Main Street, Kitzmiller
6:05-6:20 p.m.
Grantsville Park
50 Hershberger Lane, Grantsville
6:30-6:45 p.m.
Red House
3209 Garrett Highway, Oakland
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Eastern Garrett Fire Hall
401 Finzel Road, Frostburg
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Bloomington Park
334 North Branch Avenue, Bloomington
11:30-11:45 a.m.
Avilton Community Center
8295 Avilton Lonaconing Rd, Lonaconing
11:40-11:55 a.m.
Kitzmiller Community Park
290 W. Main Street, Kitzmiller
12:45-1:00 p.m.
Gorman Fire Hall
270 Gorman Road, Oakland
12:20-12:35 p.m.
Deer Park Town Hall
10 Oak Street, Deer Park
12:50-1:05 p.m.
Pine Woods East
705 N Street, Mt. Lake Park
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Friendsville Park
100 Lions Cir Drive, Friendsville
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Oakland Town Parking Lot
106 Town Park Lane, Oakland
5:35-5:50 p.m.
Accident Community Pond
219 North South Street, Accident
5:30-5:45 p.m.
Loch Lynn Town Hall
211 Bonnie Boulevard, Loch Lynn
6:10-6:25 p.m.
Bittinger Lutheran Parish
22 Maynardier Ridge Road, Bittinger
6:00-6:15 p.m.
Gorman
271 Gorman Road, Oakland
Additional information can be found at https://www.gcps.net/page/summer-food-services-program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, by calling 301-334-8917, 888-262-2792, or emailing scott.germain@gcps.net.
All meals are free of charge to children 18 and under, regardless of whether or not they are enrolled in Garrett County Public Schools.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services Department (FNS) is announcing changes to the Summer Meals distribution sites. Please take note of the closing or moving of the days/times at the following sites, effective August 8, 2025:
• 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟐:𝟒𝟓-𝟏:𝟎𝟎 𝐩.𝐦. Lake Ford United Methodist Church will close, and Divine Hope Church will close. 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟏:𝟎𝟎-𝟏𝟏:𝟏𝟓 𝐚.𝐦.
• 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: Altamont will close. Hope Village will close, and 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐡 𝐋𝐲𝐧𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟓:𝟑𝟎-𝟓:𝟒𝟓 𝐩.𝐦.
• 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟏:𝟎𝟎-𝟏𝟏:𝟏𝟓 𝐚.𝐦. Chestnut Grove United Methodist Church will close. Cassel Ridge will close. Bittinger Fire Hall will close. Swanton Methodist Church will close.
• 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬: Upper Yough Put-in will close. Crellin Assembly of God will close. Mountain Village will close. Bloomington will close. Youghiogheny Mountain Resort will close.
Please check the other locations below for changes, as times may have been adjusted.
𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Crellin Methodist Church
57 Crellin Street, Crellin
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Friendsville Fire Hall
944 2nd Avenue, Friendsville
11:30-11:45 a.m.
Oakland Town Parking Lot
103 Town Park Lane, Oakland
11:35-11:50 a.m.
Northern High School
86 Pride Parkway, Accident
12:05-12:20 p.m.
Pleasant View South
200 Pleasant View Lane, Loch Lynn
12:20-12:35 p.m.
Garrett College, Parking Lot A
685 Mosser Road, McHenry
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Emmanuel United Methodist
29 Pocahontas Road, Frostburg
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Swanton Community Center
3335 Swanton Road, Swanton
5:35-5:50 p.m.
St Ann’s Mission/Avilton Community Center
8298 Avilton Lonaconing Road, Lonaconing
5:40-5:55 p.m.
Kitzmiller School
288 W Main Street, Kitzmiller
6:05-6:20 p.m.
Grantsville Park
50 Hershberger Lane, Grantsville
6:30-6:45 p.m.
Red House
3209 Garrett Highway, Oakland
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Eastern Garrett Fire Hall
401 Finzel Road, Frostburg
11:00-11:15 a.m.
Bloomington Park
334 North Branch Avenue, Bloomington
11:30-11:45 a.m.
Avilton Community Center
8295 Avilton Lonaconing Rd, Lonaconing
11:40-11:55 a.m.
Kitzmiller Community Park
290 W. Main Street, Kitzmiller
12:45-1:00 p.m.
Gorman Fire Hall
270 Gorman Road, Oakland
12:20-12:35 p.m.
Deer Park Town Hall
10 Oak Street, Deer Park
12:50-1:05 p.m.
Pine Woods East
705 N Street, Mt. Lake Park
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Friendsville Park
100 Lions Cir Drive, Friendsville
5:00-5:15 p.m.
Oakland Town Parking Lot
106 Town Park Lane, Oakland
5:35-5:50 p.m.
Accident Community Pond
219 North South Street, Accident
5:30-5:45 p.m.
Loch Lynn Town Hall
211 Bonnie Boulevard, Loch Lynn
6:10-6:25 p.m.
Bittinger Lutheran Parish
22 Maynardier Ridge Road, Bittinger
6:00-6:15 p.m.
Gorman
271 Gorman Road, Oakland
Additional information can be found at https://www.gcps.net/page/summer-food-services-program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, by calling 301-334-8917, 888-262-2792, or emailing scott.germain@gcps.net.
All meals are free of charge to children 18 and under, regardless of whether or not they are enrolled in Garrett County Public Schools.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
On this #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on staying active by focusing on outdoor safety.
Summer is an excellent time for a woodland walk or to get out in your yard. But make sure you are on the lookout for a hitchhiker who may join you. Ticks wait for a host, resting on the tips of grass and shrubs. Ticks can't fly or jump, but many tick species wait in a position holding their first pair of legs outstretched, waiting to climb onto the host to hop a ride and stay for a meal.
To safely enjoy the woods with kids during tick season, focus on prevention and thorough post-play checks. Wear light-colored clothing that covers your skin, use insect repellent, and check for ticks after being outdoors, especially in areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, and underarms.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠: Encourage kids to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and tuck their pants into socks or boots. Light-colored clothing helps spot ticks more easily.
𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: Use insect repellents containing DEET (20-30% for children over 2 years old) or picaridin, following the label instructions. Permethrin can be applied to clothing, but not directly to the skin.
𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲: Walk in the center of trails to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks may be present.
𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐬: After playing outdoors, thoroughly check kids for ticks, paying close attention to the scalp, behind the ears, neck, underarms, and groin area.
𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐲: Have kids shower and wash their hair after being outdoors. Wash clothing in hot water and tumble dry on a high heat setting.
𝐈𝐟 𝐚 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝
𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐥𝐲: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure.
𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐚: Wash the bite area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic.
𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬: Monitor for any signs of illness, such as fever, rash, or flu-like symptoms, and contact a doctor if they appear.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐬: Limit time spent in areas with high grass, leaf litter, and wooded regions, recommends the US Forest Service.
𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫-𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: While ticks are most active during warmer months, be vigilant year-round, especially when the temperature is above freezing.
𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤-𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐞 𝐈𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬
While Lyme disease is a concern, ticks can also transmit other illnesses. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. If you have concerns about tick bites or tick-borne illnesses, consult a healthcare professional or your local health department for guidance. Many tick-borne diseases can have similar signs and symptoms. If you get a tick bite and develop the symptoms below within a few weeks, see your healthcare provider. The most common symptoms of tick-related illnesses include:
𝐅𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫/𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 - All tick-borne diseases can cause fever.
𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 - Tick-borne diseases can cause headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. People with Lyme disease may also have joint pain.
𝐑𝐚𝐬𝐡 - Lyme disease, Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, and tularemia can cause distinctive rashes.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/prevention/index.html.
Summer is an excellent time for a woodland walk or to get out in your yard. But make sure you are on the lookout for a hitchhiker who may join you. Ticks wait for a host, resting on the tips of grass and shrubs. Ticks can't fly or jump, but many tick species wait in a position holding their first pair of legs outstretched, waiting to climb onto the host to hop a ride and stay for a meal.
To safely enjoy the woods with kids during tick season, focus on prevention and thorough post-play checks. Wear light-colored clothing that covers your skin, use insect repellent, and check for ticks after being outdoors, especially in areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, and underarms.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠: Encourage kids to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and tuck their pants into socks or boots. Light-colored clothing helps spot ticks more easily.
𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: Use insect repellents containing DEET (20-30% for children over 2 years old) or picaridin, following the label instructions. Permethrin can be applied to clothing, but not directly to the skin.
𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲: Walk in the center of trails to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks may be present.
𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐬: After playing outdoors, thoroughly check kids for ticks, paying close attention to the scalp, behind the ears, neck, underarms, and groin area.
𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐲: Have kids shower and wash their hair after being outdoors. Wash clothing in hot water and tumble dry on a high heat setting.
𝐈𝐟 𝐚 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝
𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐥𝐲: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure.
𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐚: Wash the bite area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic.
𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬: Monitor for any signs of illness, such as fever, rash, or flu-like symptoms, and contact a doctor if they appear.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐬: Limit time spent in areas with high grass, leaf litter, and wooded regions, recommends the US Forest Service.
𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫-𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: While ticks are most active during warmer months, be vigilant year-round, especially when the temperature is above freezing.
𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤-𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐞 𝐈𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬
While Lyme disease is a concern, ticks can also transmit other illnesses. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. If you have concerns about tick bites or tick-borne illnesses, consult a healthcare professional or your local health department for guidance. Many tick-borne diseases can have similar signs and symptoms. If you get a tick bite and develop the symptoms below within a few weeks, see your healthcare provider. The most common symptoms of tick-related illnesses include:
𝐅𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫/𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 - All tick-borne diseases can cause fever.
𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 - Tick-borne diseases can cause headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. People with Lyme disease may also have joint pain.
𝐑𝐚𝐬𝐡 - Lyme disease, Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, and tularemia can cause distinctive rashes.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/prevention/index.html.
𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬!
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is hiring! We’re looking for passionate and dedicated educators to join our team for the upcoming school year, including 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 who will inspire creativity and a love of music in our students.
In addition to music positions, we have a variety of other open roles across our schools and departments.
If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of students and become part of a supportive community, 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲!
👉 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDProud #NowHiring #TeachMusic #JoinOurTeam #GarrettCountyMD #Employment
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is hiring! We’re looking for passionate and dedicated educators to join our team for the upcoming school year, including 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 who will inspire creativity and a love of music in our students.
In addition to music positions, we have a variety of other open roles across our schools and departments.
If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of students and become part of a supportive community, 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲!
👉 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: https://www.applitrack.com/garrettcountyschools/onlineapp/
#GCPSMD #GCPSMDProud #NowHiring #TeachMusic #JoinOurTeam #GarrettCountyMD #Employment
On this #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on keeping children active. Today's focus is on preventing boredom.
When children say "I'm bored," it can be an opportunity for them to develop creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills. Parents and guardians can encourage children to use their imagination and explore their own interests. Here are some low-cost and fun ideas for parents and kids.
𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲
Use sidewalk chalk to draw the alphabet on the driveway and then give the kids a spray bottle of water (or a squirt gun). Call out a letter, and they have to find it and squirt it. You can also work with numbers, and then they can spell out words or solve simple math problems.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐬
Lie on the sidewalk or patio and let the kids outline each other in sidewalk chalk. When the outline was complete, they could decorate it by adding clothing and a face. Or you can trace them, and then they can add the details to the chalk self-portrait.
𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬
Cut potatoes in half, carve shapes into them (or use small cookie cutters for safety), dip them in paint, and use them to make stamp art. You can create your art gallery and exhibit to invite others to view your work.
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 “𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬”
Decorate rocks with inspirational words or images. Then go on a walk or to a park and place them so others can find them. Remember to set your decorated rocks in suitable locations. You wouldn't want to put them in the grass to be hit by a lawnmower.
𝐁𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞
Blindfold your kids and have them feel, smell, and touch items you have selected to guess what they are. Choose items that multiple senses can explore. Encourage them to use new vocabulary to describe what they are touching.
𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐲 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬
Go outside with an empty shoebox and build fairy houses with the things you find in your yard. You can provide glue, tape, and a little glitter.
𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲
The autonomy of choosing and checking out books builds a child's confidence. It also encouraged them to see reading as a positive and enjoyable activity, improves reading skills, and helps them develop a sense of responsibility.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐱
Utilize those delivery boxes to their full potential. With a bit of tape and a little imagination, they can be anything from a race car to a castle. Depending on the age, you should help with any cutting that needs to be done. It's a great way to repurpose old newspapers, magazines, and scraps of fabric.
Additional information may be obtained at https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/mental-health-resources/behaviors-and-emotions/good-boredom.
When children say "I'm bored," it can be an opportunity for them to develop creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills. Parents and guardians can encourage children to use their imagination and explore their own interests. Here are some low-cost and fun ideas for parents and kids.
𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲
Use sidewalk chalk to draw the alphabet on the driveway and then give the kids a spray bottle of water (or a squirt gun). Call out a letter, and they have to find it and squirt it. You can also work with numbers, and then they can spell out words or solve simple math problems.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐬
Lie on the sidewalk or patio and let the kids outline each other in sidewalk chalk. When the outline was complete, they could decorate it by adding clothing and a face. Or you can trace them, and then they can add the details to the chalk self-portrait.
𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬
Cut potatoes in half, carve shapes into them (or use small cookie cutters for safety), dip them in paint, and use them to make stamp art. You can create your art gallery and exhibit to invite others to view your work.
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 “𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬”
Decorate rocks with inspirational words or images. Then go on a walk or to a park and place them so others can find them. Remember to set your decorated rocks in suitable locations. You wouldn't want to put them in the grass to be hit by a lawnmower.
𝐁𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞
Blindfold your kids and have them feel, smell, and touch items you have selected to guess what they are. Choose items that multiple senses can explore. Encourage them to use new vocabulary to describe what they are touching.
𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐲 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬
Go outside with an empty shoebox and build fairy houses with the things you find in your yard. You can provide glue, tape, and a little glitter.
𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲
The autonomy of choosing and checking out books builds a child's confidence. It also encouraged them to see reading as a positive and enjoyable activity, improves reading skills, and helps them develop a sense of responsibility.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐱
Utilize those delivery boxes to their full potential. With a bit of tape and a little imagination, they can be anything from a race car to a castle. Depending on the age, you should help with any cutting that needs to be done. It's a great way to repurpose old newspapers, magazines, and scraps of fabric.
Additional information may be obtained at https://www.kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/mental-health-resources/behaviors-and-emotions/good-boredom.
As we continue our July #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday focus on being active, we look at how to safely exchange screen time for time in the sun.
The phrase "dog days" refers to the hot, often humid, period of summer, traditionally from early July to early September. Engaging in physical activity during the heat of the day can increase the risk of heat-related complications for both children and adults.
Heat exhaustion is a condition caused by the body overheating, typically resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid replacement. Symptoms like heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat characterize it. If not addressed, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a more serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes, and without intervention, it can lead to death.
To help your child avoid heat exhaustion or the more serious heat stroke, teach them to:
- Always ensure that children bring water with them and hydrate regularly throughout the activity. Children should be limited to water or sports drinks but not sodas, energy drinks, or drinks containing caffeine.
- Wear a hat to help keep direct sun off your head. Also, wear lighter-colored, loose-fitting clothing to allow perspiration to evaporate and cool your body.
- Limit any intensive activity or competitive events in the hottest parts of the day or when humidity levels are high.
- Encourage kids to find games that can be played in shady areas of the yard or playground.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Faint or dizzy
- Excessive sweating
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
Actions to take in the event of heat exhaustion:
- Get to a cooler, air-conditioned place
- Drink water if fully conscious
- Take a cool shower or use cold compresses
Signs of Heat Stroke:
- Throbbing headache
- No sweating
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Red, hot, dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, strong pulse
- May lose consciousness
Actions to take in the event of heat stroke:
- Call 911
- Take immediate action to cool the person until help arrives
For additional information on heat exhaustion or heat stroke, please visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness.
The phrase "dog days" refers to the hot, often humid, period of summer, traditionally from early July to early September. Engaging in physical activity during the heat of the day can increase the risk of heat-related complications for both children and adults.
Heat exhaustion is a condition caused by the body overheating, typically resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid replacement. Symptoms like heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat characterize it. If not addressed, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a more serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes, and without intervention, it can lead to death.
To help your child avoid heat exhaustion or the more serious heat stroke, teach them to:
- Always ensure that children bring water with them and hydrate regularly throughout the activity. Children should be limited to water or sports drinks but not sodas, energy drinks, or drinks containing caffeine.
- Wear a hat to help keep direct sun off your head. Also, wear lighter-colored, loose-fitting clothing to allow perspiration to evaporate and cool your body.
- Limit any intensive activity or competitive events in the hottest parts of the day or when humidity levels are high.
- Encourage kids to find games that can be played in shady areas of the yard or playground.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Faint or dizzy
- Excessive sweating
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
Actions to take in the event of heat exhaustion:
- Get to a cooler, air-conditioned place
- Drink water if fully conscious
- Take a cool shower or use cold compresses
Signs of Heat Stroke:
- Throbbing headache
- No sweating
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Red, hot, dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, strong pulse
- May lose consciousness
Actions to take in the event of heat stroke:
- Call 911
- Take immediate action to cool the person until help arrives
For additional information on heat exhaustion or heat stroke, please visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness.
𝐍𝐆𝐇𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓–𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce that Northern Garrett High School (NGHS) will launch a new Culinary Arts program beginning with the 2025–26 school year. This addition enhances Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students in the Northern attendance area and aligns with GCPS’s commitment to expanding hands-on, career-focused learning.
The Culinary Arts program will introduce students to foundational skills in food preparation, safety and sanitation, nutrition, and hospitality management. As part of the district’s broader effort to prepare students for both post-secondary education and direct entry into the workforce, this program opens new pathways for industry-recognized certifications and future employment in the culinary and hospitality sectors for NGHS students.
After a comprehensive review of potential locations, including Garrett College, the GCPS administration determined that upgrading an existing classroom at Northern Garrett High would best support the long-term goals of the program. The former Home Economics classroom will serve as the program’s instructional kitchen for the 2025-26 school year.
The district considered several key factors in making this decision:
• Cost Efficiency: Utilizing space at Northern High avoids transportation costs and facility rental fees associated with an off-campus site, while allowing for targeted investments in on-site infrastructure improvements.
• Scheduling Flexibility: Housing the program at the school simplifies student and teacher scheduling, reduces disruptions to the school day, and ensures program access for a greater number of students.
• Instructional Leadership: GCPS has hired a Culinary Arts instructor, Mr. Jason Fickes.
Funding for the program is being utilized from a pending Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Grant of $300k in federal funding. Additionally, increased Perkins Grant Funding through the state is being utilized for supplies and equipment. Combined, over $500k in state and federal funding is being utilized to start the program. The future classroom will undergo a two-year build-out.
More information about course registration, certification options, and future program expansions will be shared with students and families as it becomes available. For further inquiries, please contact Northern Garrett High School at 301-746-8668 or the GCPS Secondary Education Office at 301-334-8913.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce that Northern Garrett High School (NGHS) will launch a new Culinary Arts program beginning with the 2025–26 school year. This addition enhances Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students in the Northern attendance area and aligns with GCPS’s commitment to expanding hands-on, career-focused learning.
The Culinary Arts program will introduce students to foundational skills in food preparation, safety and sanitation, nutrition, and hospitality management. As part of the district’s broader effort to prepare students for both post-secondary education and direct entry into the workforce, this program opens new pathways for industry-recognized certifications and future employment in the culinary and hospitality sectors for NGHS students.
After a comprehensive review of potential locations, including Garrett College, the GCPS administration determined that upgrading an existing classroom at Northern Garrett High would best support the long-term goals of the program. The former Home Economics classroom will serve as the program’s instructional kitchen for the 2025-26 school year.
The district considered several key factors in making this decision:
• Cost Efficiency: Utilizing space at Northern High avoids transportation costs and facility rental fees associated with an off-campus site, while allowing for targeted investments in on-site infrastructure improvements.
• Scheduling Flexibility: Housing the program at the school simplifies student and teacher scheduling, reduces disruptions to the school day, and ensures program access for a greater number of students.
• Instructional Leadership: GCPS has hired a Culinary Arts instructor, Mr. Jason Fickes.
Funding for the program is being utilized from a pending Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Grant of $300k in federal funding. Additionally, increased Perkins Grant Funding through the state is being utilized for supplies and equipment. Combined, over $500k in state and federal funding is being utilized to start the program. The future classroom will undergo a two-year build-out.
More information about course registration, certification options, and future program expansions will be shared with students and families as it becomes available. For further inquiries, please contact Northern Garrett High School at 301-746-8668 or the GCPS Secondary Education Office at 301-334-8913.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐥𝐲 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of several key administrators who have officially begun their roles. The following individuals are now serving in their respective positions:
• Mrs. Laura Dahlen – Assistant Principal, Broad Ford School
• Mrs. Ashley Glotfelty – Director of Finance
• Mr. Mitchell Hall – Principal, Grantsville Elementary School
• Mr. Michael Lewis – Director of Student Services
• Mrs. Tracie Miller – Director of Human Resources
• Mr. Robert Witt – Director of System Operations
“We are proud to welcome this group of talented and dedicated leaders,” said Dr. Brenda McCartney, Superintendent of Schools. “Their experience and commitment to excellence will help move our school system forward as we continue working to provide the best possible education for all students.”
Each administrator has already begun actively supporting staff, students, and families in their new roles as the district prepares for the upcoming 2025–26 school year.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of several key administrators who have officially begun their roles. The following individuals are now serving in their respective positions:
• Mrs. Laura Dahlen – Assistant Principal, Broad Ford School
• Mrs. Ashley Glotfelty – Director of Finance
• Mr. Mitchell Hall – Principal, Grantsville Elementary School
• Mr. Michael Lewis – Director of Student Services
• Mrs. Tracie Miller – Director of Human Resources
• Mr. Robert Witt – Director of System Operations
“We are proud to welcome this group of talented and dedicated leaders,” said Dr. Brenda McCartney, Superintendent of Schools. “Their experience and commitment to excellence will help move our school system forward as we continue working to provide the best possible education for all students.”
Each administrator has already begun actively supporting staff, students, and families in their new roles as the district prepares for the upcoming 2025–26 school year.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐄𝐏 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce that beginning with the 2025–26 school year, all students enrolled in GCPS will receive free breakfast and lunch every school day through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a federal program under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
The approval of CEP for GCPS means that families will no longer need to complete meal benefit applications or worry about meal costs during the school year. This district-wide implementation ensures equitable access to nutritious meals for every student, supporting both academic success and overall well-being.
“Removing barriers to healthy meals is a major step forward for our school system,” said Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services. “When students are well-nourished, they are better able to focus, learn, and succeed. We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to all of our families.”
The CEP is a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that allows eligible school systems to provide free meals to all students without collecting individual applications. GCPS became eligible by meeting federal criteria based on identified student data, including participation in programs like SNAP and TANF.
To learn more about the CEP program as it relates to GCPS, please visit https://www.gcps.net/page/community-eligibility-provision or contact Mr. Germain at 301-334-8917 or scott.germain@gcps.net.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is pleased to announce that beginning with the 2025–26 school year, all students enrolled in GCPS will receive free breakfast and lunch every school day through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a federal program under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
The approval of CEP for GCPS means that families will no longer need to complete meal benefit applications or worry about meal costs during the school year. This district-wide implementation ensures equitable access to nutritious meals for every student, supporting both academic success and overall well-being.
“Removing barriers to healthy meals is a major step forward for our school system,” said Mr. Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services. “When students are well-nourished, they are better able to focus, learn, and succeed. We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to all of our families.”
The CEP is a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that allows eligible school systems to provide free meals to all students without collecting individual applications. GCPS became eligible by meeting federal criteria based on identified student data, including participation in programs like SNAP and TANF.
To learn more about the CEP program as it relates to GCPS, please visit https://www.gcps.net/page/community-eligibility-provision or contact Mr. Germain at 301-334-8917 or scott.germain@gcps.net.
On this #GCPSMDWellnessWednesday, we continue our focus on being active.
Finding activities that keep kids healthy, entertained, and away from screens is no easy feat. Biking does that and more.
𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
Bicycling engages the whole body and multiple parts of the brain. Biking helps to improve motor integration, which involves coordinating complex movements between the brain and muscles. Furthermore, riding a bike requires children to practice proprioception, or understanding their body's position in space. Both of these are extremely important for brain development.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞
Playing outdoors has been proven to have a variety of benefits for both kids and adults, including improved mood and reduced stress, higher Vitamin D levels, and increased attention spans.
𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬’ 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
Learning to ride a bike can be a challenging experience. As a result, mastering that skill can boost kids’ self-confidence and self-esteem.
𝐁𝐢𝐜𝐲𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲
Bicycling is an aerobic exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the legs (for pedaling), the core (for stabilization and balance), and the arms (for steering). Riding a bike regularly helps build strength, improve endurance, and increase lung capacity.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞
One of the biggest perks of bicycling is that it can be done solo or in groups. Taking a bike ride together is an excellent family bonding activity, and it’s also something that kids can do with their friends or siblings.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬
Did you know? By wearing a helmet, you can reduce bike-related head injuries by up to 85%!
- Make sure the helmet fits.
You want it to be snug, not floppy. It can be easier to adjust if it's not on your child's head.
- Make sure the bike fits.
When your child stands over the bike, there should be at least 1-2 inches of space between their body and the top of the bar.
- Use crosswalks.
Always cross the street at the crosswalks and never between cars. Before crossing, teach your child to look left, look right, and look left again.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic.
It's much safer and helps your child obey stop signs and traffic lights.
- Be visible.
Have your child wear bright clothes, use a rear reflector, and learn to make eye contact with drivers.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.safekids.org/bike.
Finding activities that keep kids healthy, entertained, and away from screens is no easy feat. Biking does that and more.
𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
Bicycling engages the whole body and multiple parts of the brain. Biking helps to improve motor integration, which involves coordinating complex movements between the brain and muscles. Furthermore, riding a bike requires children to practice proprioception, or understanding their body's position in space. Both of these are extremely important for brain development.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞
Playing outdoors has been proven to have a variety of benefits for both kids and adults, including improved mood and reduced stress, higher Vitamin D levels, and increased attention spans.
𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬’ 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
Learning to ride a bike can be a challenging experience. As a result, mastering that skill can boost kids’ self-confidence and self-esteem.
𝐁𝐢𝐜𝐲𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲
Bicycling is an aerobic exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the legs (for pedaling), the core (for stabilization and balance), and the arms (for steering). Riding a bike regularly helps build strength, improve endurance, and increase lung capacity.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞
One of the biggest perks of bicycling is that it can be done solo or in groups. Taking a bike ride together is an excellent family bonding activity, and it’s also something that kids can do with their friends or siblings.
𝐁𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬
Did you know? By wearing a helmet, you can reduce bike-related head injuries by up to 85%!
- Make sure the helmet fits.
You want it to be snug, not floppy. It can be easier to adjust if it's not on your child's head.
- Make sure the bike fits.
When your child stands over the bike, there should be at least 1-2 inches of space between their body and the top of the bar.
- Use crosswalks.
Always cross the street at the crosswalks and never between cars. Before crossing, teach your child to look left, look right, and look left again.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic.
It's much safer and helps your child obey stop signs and traffic lights.
- Be visible.
Have your child wear bright clothes, use a rear reflector, and learn to make eye contact with drivers.
Additional information may be found by visiting https://www.safekids.org/bike.
