NORC at the University of Chicago invites you to take a short survey about the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. This survey is part of a statewide study and asks about Blueprint‑related 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:
· The survey takes about 5–20 minutes.
· Participation is voluntary, and you may skip any question or stop at any time.
· 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.
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.
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.
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:
• Malaki Hines, Broad Ford School 6th grade student - Fitbit
• Emily Beitzel, Northern High School Sophomore - Apple Watch
• Andrea Hines, Southern Garrett High School Teacher - Flex passes to the CARC
GCPS encourages everyone to participate in next year’s Health and Wellness Fair for another opportunity to connect with local wellness resources and win exciting prizes.
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) proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Broad Ford School on Thursday, May 21, 2026, marking an exciting milestone for students, staff, families, and the greater community.
The ceremony brought together local and state officials, Board of Education members, community partners, staff, students, and residents to commemorate the opening of the new facility and recognize the collaboration and dedication that made the project possible.
Guests had the opportunity to hear remarks highlighting the importance of investing in modern learning environments that support student success, innovation, and community engagement. Following the ceremonial ribbon cutting, attendees were invited to tour the new school and experience the updated learning spaces firsthand.
The new Broad Ford School was designed to provide students with a safe, welcoming, and future-focused environment that supports academic achievement and personal growth. Features of the building include collaborative learning spaces, updated technology, enhanced security measures, and areas designed to foster creativity and hands-on learning opportunities.
Superintendent Dr. Brenda McCartney expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed to the project and celebrated the significance of the moment for the Broad Ford community.
For additional information about Garrett County Public Schools, please visit www.gcps.net.
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.
𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: 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.
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 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐱𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞, 𝐔𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
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 pertussis—the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms—is 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,” said Carey.
Action Steps for Garrett County Residents
● Review Vaccination Records: Check your and your family’s 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.
● 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.
● 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).
● Practice Good Hygiene: Cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
The Garrett County Health Department’s 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 Department’s Personal Health Unit at:
Phone: 301-334-7770
Email: gchd.personalhealth@maryland.gov
Online: Visit GarrettHealth.org
𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫’𝐬 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔-𝟐𝟕 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫
During the May Board of Education Meeting, a modification was made to next school year’s 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:
• March 30, 2027 – Non-school day/possible make-up day
• June 2, 2027 – Full instructional day
• June 3, 2027 – Three-hour early dismissal for students
• June 4, 2027 – Students’ last day and a three-hour early dismissal for students
• June 7, 2027 – Teachers’ last day
• Possible Make-up Days – 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.
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 “whooping” 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.
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.
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.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔!
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.
𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫: 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/.
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.
“Mrs. Maust’s deep roots in Garrett County and her unwavering commitment to our students make her an outstanding choice for this role,” said Dr. Nicole Miller, incoming GCPS Superintendent. “Her 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.”
Mrs. Maust will begin serving in her new role on July 1, 2026.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) proudly celebrates a major milestone achieved with the opening of the new Broad Ford School. Students and staff were welcomed into a modern, state-of-the-art facility on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, their first day in the new building.
This day was filled with excitement, curiosity, and a strong sense of pride as students made their way into their new classrooms, collaborative spaces, and a completely updated and renovated facility designed to support 21st-century learning, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the school and the entire Broad Ford community. Students were notably thrilled about their lockers, the gym, and the new playgrounds, with some students declaring they were most excited about their classrooms.
“This new school reflects the shared commitment of our entire community to provide the very best for our students,” said GCPS Superintendent Dr. Brenda McCartney. “This is your school. A place where students will learn, grow, and succeed, supported by a community that values education.”
The new Broad Ford School features modern classrooms, enhanced technology, and flexible learning spaces that promote collaboration, engagement, and hands-on learning. Thoughtfully designed with the future in mind, the building supports the needs of today’s students while creating opportunities for generations to come.
The opening of the new Broad Ford School represents a shared investment in education and reflects the strong partnership among GCPS, staff, families, and the Garrett County community. Community members are welcome to attend the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on May 21, 2026. The ribbon-cutting and remarks will take place at approximately 4:30 pm, followed by tours of the new school.
“We are grateful for the support of the Board of County Commissioners of Garrett County and our representatives at the State level for making this project a reality,” said Mr. Tom Woods, President of the Garrett County Board of Education. “This new Broad Ford School stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when local and State partners come together with a shared commitment to our students and community.”
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.
As Broad Ford School prepares to move into its new facility, please note the following important calendar updates for all students and families:
• 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟔𝐭𝐡, 𝟒:𝟑𝟎-𝟔:𝟑𝟎 𝐩.𝐦.
Broad Ford Parent Tour (optional). Please note that this is for 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲. Members of the community will have an opportunity to tour the new building in May.
• 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡
School is closed for Broad Ford students only. All other schools will follow the GCPS Operational Calendar.
• 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟏𝐬𝐭
Students return to school in the new building.
Please reach out to Broad Ford School for additional information or with any questions at 301-334-9445.
We are proud to celebrate Jump$tart Coalition Teacher Spotlight honoree Dr. Suzanne Wilburn, of Broad Ford School! For the month of April, Dr. Wilburn was recognized for her passion and dedication to empowering students, making a meaningful impact by helping young people build essential financial literacy skills that will serve them for life. Her commitment to engaging, real-world learning is a powerful reminder of the difference educators make every day.
The full article is available at https://www.jumpstart.org/teacher-spotlight/teacher-spotlight-suzanne-wilburn/.
Congratulations, Dr. Wilburn, for receiving this recognition!
UPDATE 4/2/26 1:15 PM:
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬; 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥
GCPS ALERT: The LOCKDOWN at Southern Garrett High School has been lifted. Out of an abundance of caution, A SECURE is now in effect at Southern Garrett High School. This means that while the school building is secured, operations continue as usual inside. Students are safe. We will keep families updated as we receive new information.
GCPS ALERT: The SECURE status at all other GCPS schools has been lifted. All operations have returned to normal. We appreciate your cooperation during this time.
ORIGINAL POST:
Lockdown in Effect at Southern Garrett High School;
Secure in Effect at All GCPS Schools
GCPS EMERGENCY ALERT: A LOCKDOWN is in effect at Southern Garrett High School. All classrooms and offices are locked. Students and staff are following safety procedures, and law enforcement is on site. Please avoid coming to the school. We will provide updates as soon as we can.
GCPS EMERGENCY ALERT: Out of an abundance of caution, a SECURE is in effect at all other GCPS schools. This means that while the school building is secured, operations continue as usual inside. Students are safe. We will keep families updated as we receive new information.