Accident Elementary
A Maryland 4-Star Rated School.
July 14, 2026, Board of Education Meeting
๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐, ๐๐๐๐, ๐๐จ๐๐ซ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ฎ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the Dennett Road Education Complex, in the Community Room. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed for public review.
Public comment for the July 14, 2026, Board Meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m., after which time the Board will go into executive session in the Instructional Directorsโ Conference Room until 5:30 p.m. to discuss personnel matters and a legal topic. The Board of Education will reconvene for the public session from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the cafeteria. Time is set aside during the public session for the hearing of constituents at approximately 6:30 p.m. Please note that this time is approximate, and public comment may be adjusted based on the timing of the presentations.
Topics excluded from Public Comment include:
Individual personnel issues.
Comments identifying individual students or staff members.
Matters that are on appeal, 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 July Board Meeting can be accessed at https://garrettcountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/Portal/. The agendas are not considered final until the Board takes action to accept them at the start of each meeting.
Part or all of the meeting may be closed pursuant to the General Provision ยง3-305 of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
๐๐๐๐จ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐ก ๐๐๐ฆ๐ฉ ๐๐ง๐๐จ
GaCo, Garrett Countyโs FIRST LEGO League Team 1629, has released information for its 2026 Summer Tech Camps. There are two different camps for students in grades 3-5 (based on the 2025-26 school year).
The camps will have two different sessions, July 21-23, 2026, at Yough Glades Elementary School and August 18-20, 2026, at Northern Middle School. Students will build and code LEGO machines to perform specific tasks. The camp will feature the new LEGO SPIKE Prime robotics platforms. Both sessions will meet Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
All camps will be limited to approximately twenty (20) students each and will be offered on a โfirst-come, first-servedโ basis. The tuition for each camp is $75/per person. There is a limited number of scholarships available from FIRST Robotics Team 1629, GaCo. Please contact Mr. Chuck Trautwein by phone at 301.616.3231 or by email to chuck.trautwein@gcps.net.
To register, please follow the link (http://bit.ly/3SEtyXT) to the registration form, complete it, and hit submit. An email confirmation will be sent with instructions regarding the form submission. More information is available at www.stemreadykids.org.
GaCo, Garrett Countyโs FIRST LEGO League Team 1629, has released information for its 2026 Summer Tech Camps. There are two different camps for students in grades 3-5 (based on the 2025-26 school year).
The camps will have two different sessions, July 21-23, 2026, at Yough Glades Elementary School and August 18-20, 2026, at Northern Middle School. Students will build and code LEGO machines to perform specific tasks. The camp will feature the new LEGO SPIKE Prime robotics platforms. Both sessions will meet Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
All camps will be limited to approximately twenty (20) students each and will be offered on a โfirst-come, first-servedโ basis. The tuition for each camp is $75/per person. There is a limited number of scholarships available from FIRST Robotics Team 1629, GaCo. Please contact Mr. Chuck Trautwein by phone at 301.616.3231 or by email to chuck.trautwein@gcps.net.
To register, please follow the link (http://bit.ly/3SEtyXT) to the registration form, complete it, and hit submit. An email confirmation will be sent with instructions regarding the form submission. More information is available at www.stemreadykids.org.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ: ๐
๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌ๐
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will release student report cards for the fourth grading period on Friday, June 12, 2026. Schools will release the report cards according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or school office for any questions. Up-to-date grading periods are available on our website at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will release student report cards for the fourth grading period on Friday, June 12, 2026. Schools will release the report cards according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or school office for any questions. Up-to-date grading periods are available on our website at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ค๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ค
This summer, Maryland SUN Bucks is back! The Maryland SUN Bucks program helps families stretch their grocery budget during the summer months, when many children lose access to meals at school.
Eligibility requirements and the enrollment process have not changed from 2025, but there are a few updates for 2026:
โ EBT Vendor Update: Effective May 17, the EBT vendor for the state of Maryland will change. If your card has been lost or destroyed, a new card can be ordered at ebtedge.com , on the ebtEDGE mobile app, or by contacting the EBT Customer Service Center at 1-800-997-2222.
โ Moved? DHS does not automatically receive address updates from schools. Call 1-800-332-6347 and select SUN Bucks, or go online to update your address immediately.
โ Who is getting a card in the mail? Only children new to the program whose households do not have SNAP or TANF will get a new white SUN Bucks card in the mail. All other families will use the card they already have. If you need a replacement, please call DHS to update your address and request a new card.
โ Custody Changed? Update the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) immediately to prevent benefits from going to the wrong parent. Call 1-800-332-6347 and select SUN Bucks.
โ Foster Parents/Guardians: Keep your old card if your child received SUN Bucks last year. If you are new to the program, you will receive a white SUN Bucks card directly from your caseworker. Contact your caseworker for replacements.
๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ข๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ
A school-aged child is eligible for Maryland SUN Bucks benefits if they:
โ Are enrolled in a Maryland school that participates in free or reduced-Price School Meals (FARMS);
โ Are age 5-18 and live in a household that participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), or Medical Assistance/Medicaid (MA);
โ Applied for and were enrolled in FARMS or the School Breakfast Program (SBP) during the school year;
โ Are in foster care, experiencing homelessness, are a runaway, child of a migrant worker, or do not meet the above criteria but apply and are determined eligible for FARMS by August 31st of the application year.
๐๐ง๐ซ๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Many families will get Maryland SUN Bucks benefits automatically, but others will need to apply. If a household already participates in SNAP, TCA, or Medicaid and/or has applied for and received Free and Reduced School Meals (FARMS) during the 2025-26 school year, they will be automatically enrolled in the program. Children who are in foster care, experiencing homelessness, migrants, or runaways will be automatically enrolled. These households do not need to fill out an application. Please note that homeless, migrant, or runaway status is usually self-reported to schools; if a child has that status but the school is unaware, this may impact the need to apply. A child who is enrolled in a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school that automatically receives FARMS, is not actively receiving SNAP, TCA, or Medicaid, and is not in foster care will not be automatically enrolled. The childโs parent/guardian will have to apply and be determined eligible to enroll in the Maryland SUN Bucks program.
๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ค๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ
Maryland SUN Bucks benefits will be issued on existing SNAP EBT cards for families who have received SNAP or TCA benefits at any time since July 1, 2025. For children who do not receive SNAP or TCA benefits on an existing card, the benefits will be issued on a white Maryland SUN Bucks card in the childโs name. Benefits can be used at authorized SNAP retailers such as grocery stores and farmers markets, to purchase healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, meats and other protein sources, whole grains, dairy, and other food products.
Visit the Maryland SUN Bucks webpage at dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks to learn more.
This summer, Maryland SUN Bucks is back! The Maryland SUN Bucks program helps families stretch their grocery budget during the summer months, when many children lose access to meals at school.
Eligibility requirements and the enrollment process have not changed from 2025, but there are a few updates for 2026:
โ EBT Vendor Update: Effective May 17, the EBT vendor for the state of Maryland will change. If your card has been lost or destroyed, a new card can be ordered at ebtedge.com , on the ebtEDGE mobile app, or by contacting the EBT Customer Service Center at 1-800-997-2222.
โ Moved? DHS does not automatically receive address updates from schools. Call 1-800-332-6347 and select SUN Bucks, or go online to update your address immediately.
โ Who is getting a card in the mail? Only children new to the program whose households do not have SNAP or TANF will get a new white SUN Bucks card in the mail. All other families will use the card they already have. If you need a replacement, please call DHS to update your address and request a new card.
โ Custody Changed? Update the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) immediately to prevent benefits from going to the wrong parent. Call 1-800-332-6347 and select SUN Bucks.
โ Foster Parents/Guardians: Keep your old card if your child received SUN Bucks last year. If you are new to the program, you will receive a white SUN Bucks card directly from your caseworker. Contact your caseworker for replacements.
๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ข๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ
A school-aged child is eligible for Maryland SUN Bucks benefits if they:
โ Are enrolled in a Maryland school that participates in free or reduced-Price School Meals (FARMS);
โ Are age 5-18 and live in a household that participates in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), or Medical Assistance/Medicaid (MA);
โ Applied for and were enrolled in FARMS or the School Breakfast Program (SBP) during the school year;
โ Are in foster care, experiencing homelessness, are a runaway, child of a migrant worker, or do not meet the above criteria but apply and are determined eligible for FARMS by August 31st of the application year.
๐๐ง๐ซ๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Many families will get Maryland SUN Bucks benefits automatically, but others will need to apply. If a household already participates in SNAP, TCA, or Medicaid and/or has applied for and received Free and Reduced School Meals (FARMS) during the 2025-26 school year, they will be automatically enrolled in the program. Children who are in foster care, experiencing homelessness, migrants, or runaways will be automatically enrolled. These households do not need to fill out an application. Please note that homeless, migrant, or runaway status is usually self-reported to schools; if a child has that status but the school is unaware, this may impact the need to apply. A child who is enrolled in a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school that automatically receives FARMS, is not actively receiving SNAP, TCA, or Medicaid, and is not in foster care will not be automatically enrolled. The childโs parent/guardian will have to apply and be determined eligible to enroll in the Maryland SUN Bucks program.
๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ค๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ
Maryland SUN Bucks benefits will be issued on existing SNAP EBT cards for families who have received SNAP or TCA benefits at any time since July 1, 2025. For children who do not receive SNAP or TCA benefits on an existing card, the benefits will be issued on a white Maryland SUN Bucks card in the childโs name. Benefits can be used at authorized SNAP retailers such as grocery stores and farmers markets, to purchase healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, meats and other protein sources, whole grains, dairy, and other food products.
Visit the Maryland SUN Bucks webpage at dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks to learn more.
๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐'๐ฌ ๐
๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฆ ๐๐ฏ๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฏ๐๐ฒ
NORC at the University of Chicago invites you to take a short survey about the Blueprint for Marylandโs Future. This survey is part of a statewide study and asks about Blueprintโrelated changes in your work or experiences with schools, students, families, or communities in Maryland.
Your perspective is important and will help create an understanding of how the Blueprint is working across the state. NORC wants to hear from people involved in education in different ways, including early childhood providers, teachers, school and district staff, community partners, colleges and universities, workforce partners, parents and guardians, and students.
What to know before you begin:
ยท The survey takes about 5โ20 minutes.
ยท Participation is voluntary, and you may skip any question or stop at any time.
ยท Responses are anonymous and will be seen only by the NORC Interim Evaluation Team.
Click to take the survey, and feel free to share the link with others! https://norcfed.gov1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0plf24huFayW5Ke
For best results, NORC recommends completing the survey on a laptop, desktop, or large tablet. Your answers will save automatically, and you may return to the survey using the same device and browser.
If you have any questions, please contact the NORC Interim Evaluation Team at blueprintmaryland@norc.org.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
NORC at the University of Chicago invites you to take a short survey about the Blueprint for Marylandโs Future. This survey is part of a statewide study and asks about Blueprintโrelated changes in your work or experiences with schools, students, families, or communities in Maryland.
Your perspective is important and will help create an understanding of how the Blueprint is working across the state. NORC wants to hear from people involved in education in different ways, including early childhood providers, teachers, school and district staff, community partners, colleges and universities, workforce partners, parents and guardians, and students.
What to know before you begin:
ยท The survey takes about 5โ20 minutes.
ยท Participation is voluntary, and you may skip any question or stop at any time.
ยท Responses are anonymous and will be seen only by the NORC Interim Evaluation Team.
Click to take the survey, and feel free to share the link with others! https://norcfed.gov1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0plf24huFayW5Ke
For best results, NORC recommends completing the survey on a laptop, desktop, or large tablet. Your answers will save automatically, and you may return to the survey using the same device and browser.
If you have any questions, please contact the NORC Interim Evaluation Team at blueprintmaryland@norc.org.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐-๐จ๐-๐๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ
As a reminder, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss all students three (3) hours early on Thursday and Friday, June 4 and 5, 2026, with the last student day being June 5, 2026, for the 2025-26 school year. The last day for teachers will be Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
As a reminder, Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss all students three (3) hours early on Thursday and Friday, June 4 and 5, 2026, with the last student day being June 5, 2026, for the 2025-26 school year. The last day for teachers will be Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐๐ฅ ๐
๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ฒ
Maryland will implement revised PreK-8 mathematics standards in the 2026-27 school year, accompanied by a statewide shift toward more structured and consistent student support practices. Families will learn what to expect in the upcoming year and explore tools such as the Numeracy Development Framework and Family Guides.
MSDE will be hosting virtual events in June 2026. Join one to learn about how families can use MSDE resources to support student learning at home.
Family Info Sessions:
Tuesday, June 2, 2026, 8:00-9:30 am
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 12:00-1:30 pm
Thursday, June 18, 2026, 6:30-8:00 pm
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 9:30-11:00 am
Virtual meeting links will be sent to all who register prior to each event. Registration for each event will close 1 hour prior to the start time. Participants are encouraged to pre-submit questions when completing the registration form.
To register, visit forms.office.com/g/CUetyRvnkJ or use the QR code on the flyer.
Maryland will implement revised PreK-8 mathematics standards in the 2026-27 school year, accompanied by a statewide shift toward more structured and consistent student support practices. Families will learn what to expect in the upcoming year and explore tools such as the Numeracy Development Framework and Family Guides.
MSDE will be hosting virtual events in June 2026. Join one to learn about how families can use MSDE resources to support student learning at home.
Family Info Sessions:
Tuesday, June 2, 2026, 8:00-9:30 am
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 12:00-1:30 pm
Thursday, June 18, 2026, 6:30-8:00 pm
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 9:30-11:00 am
Virtual meeting links will be sent to all who register prior to each event. Registration for each event will close 1 hour prior to the start time. Participants are encouraged to pre-submit questions when completing the registration form.
To register, visit forms.office.com/g/CUetyRvnkJ or use the QR code on the flyer.
๐๐ข๐ง๐ง๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก & ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ง๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐
๐๐ข๐ซ
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is proud to announce the prize winners from the 2026 Garrett County Health and Wellness Fair. The event promoted healthy lifestyles, wellness resources, and community engagement.
Throughout the fair, attendees had the opportunity to visit booths, participate in activities, and enter prize drawings. GCPS extends its appreciation to everyone who attended, helping make the event successful.
The following prizes were awarded by GCPS:
โข Malaki Hines, Broad Ford School 6th grade student - Fitbit
โข Emily Beitzel, Northern High School Sophomore - Apple Watch
โข Andrea Hines, Southern Garrett High School Teacher - Flex passes to the CARC
GCPS encourages everyone to participate in next yearโs Health and Wellness Fair for another opportunity to connect with local wellness resources and win exciting prizes.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is proud to announce the prize winners from the 2026 Garrett County Health and Wellness Fair. The event promoted healthy lifestyles, wellness resources, and community engagement.
Throughout the fair, attendees had the opportunity to visit booths, participate in activities, and enter prize drawings. GCPS extends its appreciation to everyone who attended, helping make the event successful.
The following prizes were awarded by GCPS:
โข Malaki Hines, Broad Ford School 6th grade student - Fitbit
โข Emily Beitzel, Northern High School Sophomore - Apple Watch
โข Andrea Hines, Southern Garrett High School Teacher - Flex passes to the CARC
GCPS encourages everyone to participate in next yearโs Health and Wellness Fair for another opportunity to connect with local wellness resources and win exciting prizes.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ: ๐๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐๐ข๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐ฌ๐๐ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ฒ
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day. All schools and offices will be closed for the holiday. Regular operations and classes will resume on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day. All schools and offices will be closed for the holiday. Regular operations and classes will resume on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
๐๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ ๐
๐จ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฏ๐ข๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services Department is happy to announce we will be distributing seven days of free Breakfasts and Lunches beginning the week of June 8, 2026.
Families or a designated person will need to register to receive meals. Families can register using an online form (https://forms.gle/SiQmFArPgsWLTB8U6) or at one of the meal sites. A list of meal sites can be found on the GCPS website (https://www.gcps.net/page/summer-food-services-program). Families that have not pre-registered will be required to bring their child/children or a report card with them the first time to pick up meals.
We will supply seven days of breakfasts and lunches per week. These meals will include fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, and entrees.
There will be 28 sites to choose from on a Tuesday or Wednesday each week. Some sites will be in the afternoon, while others will be in the evening. This enables you to pick the one that best suits your schedule. Please remember that you can only pick up from one site per week.
Students attending summer school are asked not to pick up meals at one of the sites. Meals will be provided at each school, and weekend bags will be provided to those students attending. Other children in the family will need to pick up at one of the meal sites.
Families from outside of Garrett County are welcome, but will need to preregister or bring their children with them.
๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐๐๐: For families who struggle with transportation, GCPS is offering home delivery to a limited number of families. If you would like to apply for home delivery, please contact Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, at 301-334-8917.
The Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Food & Nutrition Services Department is happy to announce we will be distributing seven days of free Breakfasts and Lunches beginning the week of June 8, 2026.
Families or a designated person will need to register to receive meals. Families can register using an online form (https://forms.gle/SiQmFArPgsWLTB8U6) or at one of the meal sites. A list of meal sites can be found on the GCPS website (https://www.gcps.net/page/summer-food-services-program). Families that have not pre-registered will be required to bring their child/children or a report card with them the first time to pick up meals.
We will supply seven days of breakfasts and lunches per week. These meals will include fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, and entrees.
There will be 28 sites to choose from on a Tuesday or Wednesday each week. Some sites will be in the afternoon, while others will be in the evening. This enables you to pick the one that best suits your schedule. Please remember that you can only pick up from one site per week.
Students attending summer school are asked not to pick up meals at one of the sites. Meals will be provided at each school, and weekend bags will be provided to those students attending. Other children in the family will need to pick up at one of the meal sites.
Families from outside of Garrett County are welcome, but will need to preregister or bring their children with them.
๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐๐๐: For families who struggle with transportation, GCPS is offering home delivery to a limited number of families. If you would like to apply for home delivery, please contact Scott Germain, Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services, at 301-334-8917.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ: ๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ฅ ๐/๐๐/๐๐
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Thursday, May 21, 2026, to allow for staff development in the afternoon. This is a school-based staff development, which will take place in schools and other locations throughout the county.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Thursday, May 21, 2026, to allow for staff development in the afternoon. This is a school-based staff development, which will take place in schools and other locations throughout the county.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
๐๐๐ซ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ข๐ซ๐ฆ๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ฑ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฌ๐, ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง
The Garrett County Health Department (GCHD) has confirmed the sixth case of pertussis in the past six months. This is the third case reported in 2026.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. Public health officials are actively investigating this case and are working to identify and notify close contacts to help prevent further spread of the illness.
Guidance for parents, guardians, and caregivers is available in a shareable format at: https://garretthealth.org/pertussis-guidance/.
The GCHD is urging all residents, especially those in close contact with infants or young children, to review their vaccination status and be aware of the symptoms of pertussis.
About Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis is a serious and highly contagious infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is spread easily from person-to-person through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
While typically milder in vaccinated adolescents and adults, pertussis can be life-threatening for infants and young children who are not yet fully immunized.
The incubation period for pertussisโthe time from exposure to the onset of symptomsโis typically 7 to 10 days, but can range from 4 to 21 days. Close contacts who develop any cold-like symptoms within this window should notify your healthcare provider immediately.
"Pertussis initially looks like a common cold, with a runny nose, mild fever, and a slight cough," explains Jessica Carey, MSN Ed., CRNP, Director of Personal Health at the GCHD. "After a week or two the cough progresses to uncontrolled coughing. The coughing can make breathing difficult, often resulting in the characteristic 'whoop' sound when trying to inhale, or causing vomiting and exhaustion."
The illness is known as the "100-day cough" because the cough is persistent, lasting for weeks or even months.
The Critical Role of Vaccination
The best way to protect against pertussis is through vaccination. The protection provided by the childhood vaccine (DTaP) fades over time, which is why booster shots are critical for older children and adults.
"It's important for everyone to stay up-to-date on their pertussis vaccine," Jessica Carey stresses. "For children, this means completing the DTaP series and getting the Tdap booster shot around age 11 or 12. For adults, Tdap is generally recommended every ten years.
"The Tdap vaccine is also recommended for pregnant individuals during the early part of the third trimester of each pregnancy,โ said Carey.
Action Steps for Garrett County Residents
โ Review Vaccination Records: Check your and your familyโs vaccination status. If you or your children (especially pre-teens and pregnant individuals) are not up-to-date on the Tdap vaccine, contact your healthcare provider or the Health Department.
โ Monitor for Symptoms: If you or a family member develops cold-like symptoms followed by severe, prolonged, or worsening coughing fits, seek medical attention immediately.
โ Prevent Spread: Anyone diagnosed with pertussis should stay home from school, work, or public places until they have completed at least 5 days of appropriate antibiotic treatment (or 3 weeks after the cough starts if untreated).
โ Practice Good Hygiene: Cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
The Garrett County Health Departmentโs Personal Health Unit offers pertussis vaccination (Tdap) and testing.
Contact Information
For questions regarding pertussis, vaccinations, or potential exposure, please contact the Garrett County Health Departmentโs Personal Health Unit at:
Phone: 301-334-7770
Email: gchd.personalhealth@maryland.gov
Online: Visit GarrettHealth.org
๐๐จ๐๐ข๐๐ข๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐๐ฑ๐ญ ๐๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ซโ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐-๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ
During the May Board of Education Meeting, a modification was made to next school yearโs previously approved 2026-27 calendar due to recently issued requirements from the Maryland State Department of Education. As such, the GCPS Calendar Committee reconvened and presented the following recommendation to the Superintendent and Board:
โข March 30, 2027 โ Non-school day/possible make-up day
โข June 2, 2027 โ Full instructional day
โข June 3, 2027 โ Three-hour early dismissal for students
โข June 4, 2027 โ Studentsโ last day and a three-hour early dismissal for students
โข June 7, 2027 โ Teachersโ last day
โข Possible Make-up Days โ February 15, 2027; March 30, 2027; and March 29, 2027 (days will be used in this order, if possible)
These modifications were approved during the May 12, 2026, Board Meeting and are reflected in our 2026-27 Calendar at a Glance. To view this, or any other GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
๐๐๐ซ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ข๐ฌ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ
The Garrett County Health Department has reported a case of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, within the community. Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is sharing this information to help keep students, families, and staff informed and aware.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing. According to health officials, symptoms can appear anywhere from 4 to 21 days after exposure. Early signs often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose and sneezing, and may progress to a severe, persistent cough that can last for weeks or longer. In some cases, individuals may experience intense coughing fits, difficulty breathing, a high-pitched โwhoopingโ sound, or vomiting.
The Garrett County Health Department emphasizes that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pertussis. Families are encouraged to ensure that all household members are up to date on recommended immunizations, including DTaP and Tdap vaccines. Because immunity can decrease over time, even vaccinated individuals may still be at risk.
Health officials note that pertussis can be treated with antibiotics. Without treatment, individuals may remain contagious for several weeks and can spread the infection to others.
Families are urged to monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if pertussis is suspected. Anyone diagnosed with pertussis should notify their school or workplace and remain at home until cleared by the health department.
For more information, or if you have questions, please contact the Garrett County Health Department and ask for Jessica Carey, MSN Ed., CRNP, at (301) 334-7770.
Garrett County Public Schools will continue working in partnership with the Garrett County Health Department to support the health and well-being of the school community.
The Garrett County Health Department has reported a case of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, within the community. Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is sharing this information to help keep students, families, and staff informed and aware.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing. According to health officials, symptoms can appear anywhere from 4 to 21 days after exposure. Early signs often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose and sneezing, and may progress to a severe, persistent cough that can last for weeks or longer. In some cases, individuals may experience intense coughing fits, difficulty breathing, a high-pitched โwhoopingโ sound, or vomiting.
The Garrett County Health Department emphasizes that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pertussis. Families are encouraged to ensure that all household members are up to date on recommended immunizations, including DTaP and Tdap vaccines. Because immunity can decrease over time, even vaccinated individuals may still be at risk.
Health officials note that pertussis can be treated with antibiotics. Without treatment, individuals may remain contagious for several weeks and can spread the infection to others.
Families are urged to monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if pertussis is suspected. Anyone diagnosed with pertussis should notify their school or workplace and remain at home until cleared by the health department.
For more information, or if you have questions, please contact the Garrett County Health Department and ask for Jessica Carey, MSN Ed., CRNP, at (301) 334-7770.
Garrett County Public Schools will continue working in partnership with the Garrett County Health Department to support the health and well-being of the school community.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ: ๐
๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌ๐
All Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will release student progress reports for the fourth grading period on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Schools will release the progress reports according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or school office for any questions. Up-to-date grading periods are available on our website at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
All Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will release student progress reports for the fourth grading period on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Schools will release the progress reports according to their school-specific policy. Please refer to your student handbook or school office for any questions. Up-to-date grading periods are available on our website at https://www.gcps.net/page/gcps-calendars.
๐๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐ซ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฒ!
On this Teacher Appreciation Day, Garrett County Public Schools thanks our dedicated teachers for their passion, commitment, and the lasting impact they make in every classroom. We celebrate the incredible educators who inspire, support, and shape the future of our students every single day.
On this Teacher Appreciation Day, Garrett County Public Schools thanks our dedicated teachers for their passion, commitment, and the lasting impact they make in every classroom. We celebrate the incredible educators who inspire, support, and shape the future of our students every single day.
๐๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐๐ข๐ฉ๐๐ฅ ๐
๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ณ ๐๐จ๐ง๐จ๐ซ๐๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ก๐ข๐ฉ ๐๐ฏ๐๐ง๐ญ
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is proud to share that Mrs. Jessica Fratz, Principal of Accident Elementary School, was recognized at the Maryland School Leadership Honors: Honoring Principals event, held this past Friday, May 1st, at the Maryland State House.
Hosted on behalf of Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, in partnership with The Wallace Foundation, the statewide event recognized exceptional school leaders in celebration of National Principal Appreciation Day.
Mrs. Fratz was nominated for her outstanding leadership and commitment to student success. Her experience as a principal has demonstrated a strong track record of improving student outcomes while fostering a positive, inclusive, and equitable school culture.
โGarrett County Public Schools is incredibly proud of the leadership demonstrated at Accident Elementary,โ said Mrs. Dawna Ashby, Director of Elementary Education. โThis recognition reflects a deep commitment to students, staff, and the broader school community.โ
The Maryland School Leadership Honors highlights the critical role principals play in shaping school environments where all students can thrive. GCPS celebrates this well-deserved recognition and the continued impact of strong school leadership across the district.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is proud to share that Mrs. Jessica Fratz, Principal of Accident Elementary School, was recognized at the Maryland School Leadership Honors: Honoring Principals event, held this past Friday, May 1st, at the Maryland State House.
Hosted on behalf of Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, in partnership with The Wallace Foundation, the statewide event recognized exceptional school leaders in celebration of National Principal Appreciation Day.
Mrs. Fratz was nominated for her outstanding leadership and commitment to student success. Her experience as a principal has demonstrated a strong track record of improving student outcomes while fostering a positive, inclusive, and equitable school culture.
โGarrett County Public Schools is incredibly proud of the leadership demonstrated at Accident Elementary,โ said Mrs. Dawna Ashby, Director of Elementary Education. โThis recognition reflects a deep commitment to students, staff, and the broader school community.โ
The Maryland School Leadership Honors highlights the critical role principals play in shaping school environments where all students can thrive. GCPS celebrates this well-deserved recognition and the continued impact of strong school leadership across the district.
๐๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ง ๐๐ฎ๐๐ค๐ฌ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ค ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐!
The Maryland Sun Bucks program is back for Summer 2026! Sun Bucks puts groceries on the table when school is out. Eligible children receive $40 per month, from June through August, to help offset food costs.
๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌ๐ ๐ง๐จ๐ญ๐ ๐๐ง ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ: families and children who were previously auto-enrolled (those receiving free or reduced-price meals) must now complete an application, as all GCPS students are currently receiving free meals.
Additional information is available by scanning the QR Code on the flyer or visiting https://dhs.maryland.gov/sunbucks/.
๐๐๐ฐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฎ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐
During the April 14, 2026, Board meeting, Mrs. Candy Maust was approved as the next Director of Elementary Education beginning with the 2026-27 school year. In this role, Mrs. Maust will provide leadership in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all early childhood and elementary programs, while promoting high-quality education for students.
Mrs. Maust is a lifelong resident of Garrett County and has spent her entire career with Garrett County Public Schools. She taught elementary school in the Crellin and Friendsville communities before becoming a principal at Kitzmiller Elementary School. She went on to serve as the principal of Route 40 Elementary before spending five years as a Supervisor of Instruction.
โMrs. Maustโs deep roots in Garrett County and her unwavering commitment to our students make her an outstanding choice for this role,โ said Dr. Nicole Miller, incoming GCPS Superintendent. โHer extensive experience as a teacher, principal, and instructional leader, combined with her passion for early literacy and student success, will be instrumental as we continue strengthening our early childhood and elementary programs. I am confident that under her leadership, we will build on our strong foundation with a focus on providing every child access to a high-quality, supportive learning experience.โ
Mrs. Maust will begin serving in her new role on July 1, 2026.
During the April 14, 2026, Board meeting, Mrs. Candy Maust was approved as the next Director of Elementary Education beginning with the 2026-27 school year. In this role, Mrs. Maust will provide leadership in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all early childhood and elementary programs, while promoting high-quality education for students.
Mrs. Maust is a lifelong resident of Garrett County and has spent her entire career with Garrett County Public Schools. She taught elementary school in the Crellin and Friendsville communities before becoming a principal at Kitzmiller Elementary School. She went on to serve as the principal of Route 40 Elementary before spending five years as a Supervisor of Instruction.
โMrs. Maustโs deep roots in Garrett County and her unwavering commitment to our students make her an outstanding choice for this role,โ said Dr. Nicole Miller, incoming GCPS Superintendent. โHer extensive experience as a teacher, principal, and instructional leader, combined with her passion for early literacy and student success, will be instrumental as we continue strengthening our early childhood and elementary programs. I am confident that under her leadership, we will build on our strong foundation with a focus on providing every child access to a high-quality, supportive learning experience.โ
Mrs. Maust will begin serving in her new role on July 1, 2026.
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ: ๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ฅ ๐/๐๐/๐๐
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Monday, April 20, 2026, to allow for staff development in the afternoon. This is a school-based staff development, which will take place in schools and at Garrett College.
As a reminder, there is no school for Broad Ford students only on Monday, April 20th, as the transition to the new building continues.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Monday, April 20, 2026, to allow for staff development in the afternoon. This is a school-based staff development, which will take place in schools and at Garrett College.
As a reminder, there is no school for Broad Ford students only on Monday, April 20th, as the transition to the new building continues.
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
