Southern Garrett High School
A Maryland 3-Star Rated School.
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.
𝐒𝐆𝐇𝐒 𝐒𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Students in the seventh grade at Southern Garrett High School (SGHS) recently stepped into the role of library curators through a collaborative project designed to foster literacy, research skills, and student voice.
Working alongside their English teachers and the school media specialist, students researched books based on topics and genres that interested them personally. Throughout the process, students evaluated potential selections by reviewing content, considering age appropriateness, and examining critical reviews before making their final recommendations.
After the selections were approved, the books were purchased using school media funds and added to the library collection.
To commemorate their contributions, each student placed a personalized sticker inside the cover of their selected book. These books will remain a permanent part of the Southern High School library, allowing future students to enjoy and benefit from the curated selections.
The project provided students with a meaningful opportunity to take ownership of their school library while encouraging thoughtful reading choices and a deeper appreciation for literature.
Students in the seventh grade at Southern Garrett High School (SGHS) recently stepped into the role of library curators through a collaborative project designed to foster literacy, research skills, and student voice.
Working alongside their English teachers and the school media specialist, students researched books based on topics and genres that interested them personally. Throughout the process, students evaluated potential selections by reviewing content, considering age appropriateness, and examining critical reviews before making their final recommendations.
After the selections were approved, the books were purchased using school media funds and added to the library collection.
To commemorate their contributions, each student placed a personalized sticker inside the cover of their selected book. These books will remain a permanent part of the Southern High School library, allowing future students to enjoy and benefit from the curated selections.
The project provided students with a meaningful opportunity to take ownership of their school library while encouraging thoughtful reading choices and a deeper appreciation for literature.
𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐲
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.
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.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
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.
𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 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.
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.
𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦!
Both the Northern Garrett High School (North Garrett FFA) and Southern Garrett High School (Oakland FFA) chapters are kicking off their annual plant sales this Saturday, April 25, 2026!
Stop by to support our students and shop a great selection of flowers, vegetables, and more, perfect for your planters, gardens, and other spaces. Proceeds help support hands-on agricultural learning and FFA activities throughout the year.
Don’t miss this opportunity. Come out and grow with us!
𝐒𝐆𝐇𝐒 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
The 2026 Garrett County Envirothon competition was held on Tuesday, April 21st, at the Hickory Environmental Education Center (HEEC), during which teams and their teachers/coaches from Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools competed for points in a variety of conservation challenges.
The annual event is a full day of competition. Students prepared by attending a fall and spring training day at HEEC and then working with their coaches throughout the school year. Envirothon is a problem-solving, hands-on natural resources competition, with the objectives of promoting a deeper knowledge of how individuals and groups impact the environment by understanding environmental interactions and interdependence; being aware of current environmental issues, agencies, and resources that assist in resource protection and conservation practices; and raising environmental awareness.
Resource trainers from area agencies provided volunteer training and mentoring throughout the year for students and were integral participants during the training and testing days. The five categories of competition are traditionally: wildlife, aquatics, forestry, soils, and a special fifth issue that is selected each year.
Area agencies that assisted with this year’s training and competition were: Maryland DNR Park Service, Forestry, and Wildlife Agencies; Garrett County Forestry Board; Garrett Soil Conservation District; US Department of Agriculture; and Garrett County Extension Services.
The coaches this year were Carrie Glass (Northern High) and Erin Coffman (Southern High). Special assistance was provided by Sharon Hoover, Randy Sharpless, Rebecca Kenyon-Sisler, and Jason Shank of the Hickory Environmental Education Center.
Participating students were:
• 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥—Abbigail Baker, Eoin Matteo Elica, Eden Rankin, Allison Thrush, and Madeline Smith
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥—Lani Daugherty, Meredith Murphy, Ayla Rodeheaver, Ava Stewart, and Logan Guthrie
Recognition is given to teams earning a high score in individual categories and overall. Category winners this year were as follows:
• Aquatics – Southern High School
• Forestry – Southern High School
• Soils – Southern High School
• Wildlife – Southern High School
• 5th Issue (Waste to Resources) – Northern High School
The Southern High team was the overall winner of the competition. They will continue to train and prepare for the Maryland State Envirothon competition, which will be held June 10-11, 2026, at Mt. St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
The Envirothon began in 1979 in Pennsylvania, with the first national competition in 1988. GCPS students in grades 9-12 are eligible to participate in Envirothon. For more information about Garrett County Envirothon teams and competitions, persons may contact Rebecca Kenyon-Sisler at rebecca.kenyon@gcps.net.
The 2026 Garrett County Envirothon competition was held on Tuesday, April 21st, at the Hickory Environmental Education Center (HEEC), during which teams and their teachers/coaches from Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools competed for points in a variety of conservation challenges.
The annual event is a full day of competition. Students prepared by attending a fall and spring training day at HEEC and then working with their coaches throughout the school year. Envirothon is a problem-solving, hands-on natural resources competition, with the objectives of promoting a deeper knowledge of how individuals and groups impact the environment by understanding environmental interactions and interdependence; being aware of current environmental issues, agencies, and resources that assist in resource protection and conservation practices; and raising environmental awareness.
Resource trainers from area agencies provided volunteer training and mentoring throughout the year for students and were integral participants during the training and testing days. The five categories of competition are traditionally: wildlife, aquatics, forestry, soils, and a special fifth issue that is selected each year.
Area agencies that assisted with this year’s training and competition were: Maryland DNR Park Service, Forestry, and Wildlife Agencies; Garrett County Forestry Board; Garrett Soil Conservation District; US Department of Agriculture; and Garrett County Extension Services.
The coaches this year were Carrie Glass (Northern High) and Erin Coffman (Southern High). Special assistance was provided by Sharon Hoover, Randy Sharpless, Rebecca Kenyon-Sisler, and Jason Shank of the Hickory Environmental Education Center.
Participating students were:
• 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥—Abbigail Baker, Eoin Matteo Elica, Eden Rankin, Allison Thrush, and Madeline Smith
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥—Lani Daugherty, Meredith Murphy, Ayla Rodeheaver, Ava Stewart, and Logan Guthrie
Recognition is given to teams earning a high score in individual categories and overall. Category winners this year were as follows:
• Aquatics – Southern High School
• Forestry – Southern High School
• Soils – Southern High School
• Wildlife – Southern High School
• 5th Issue (Waste to Resources) – Northern High School
The Southern High team was the overall winner of the competition. They will continue to train and prepare for the Maryland State Envirothon competition, which will be held June 10-11, 2026, at Mt. St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
The Envirothon began in 1979 in Pennsylvania, with the first national competition in 1988. GCPS students in grades 9-12 are eligible to participate in Envirothon. For more information about Garrett County Envirothon teams and competitions, persons may contact Rebecca Kenyon-Sisler at rebecca.kenyon@gcps.net.
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/.
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝
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.
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.
𝐒𝐆𝐇𝐒 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬
This past week, students from Southern Garrett High School in Mrs. Jordan Storey’s eighth-grade classes proudly showcased their creativity and understanding of physics during a hands-on roller coaster design event held in the media center.
After weeks of planning, designing, and building, students unveiled their custom roller coasters, each created to demonstrate Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. The projects highlighted not only students’ grasp of scientific concepts but also their problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail.
“This project is a great example of how hands-on learning can bring complex concepts to life,” said Mrs. Storey. “Students took ownership of their learning and were excited to share their work with others.”
The event was well-attended and served as a fun and educational way to engage students and spectators alike, reinforcing the importance of experiential learning in the classroom.
This past week, students from Southern Garrett High School in Mrs. Jordan Storey’s eighth-grade classes proudly showcased their creativity and understanding of physics during a hands-on roller coaster design event held in the media center.
After weeks of planning, designing, and building, students unveiled their custom roller coasters, each created to demonstrate Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. The projects highlighted not only students’ grasp of scientific concepts but also their problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail.
“This project is a great example of how hands-on learning can bring complex concepts to life,” said Mrs. Storey. “Students took ownership of their learning and were excited to share their work with others.”
The event was well-attended and served as a fun and educational way to engage students and spectators alike, reinforcing the importance of experiential learning in the classroom.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝟒/𝟐𝟎/𝟐𝟔
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.
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.
𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
As we move into the final stretch of the school year, please take a moment to review these important April 2026 calendar reminders and schedule updates for Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS):
• 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐 – End of the third grading period
• 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟑 – All GCPS schools & offices are closed
• 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟔 – All GCPS 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 as a make-up day
• 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟎 – Report cards released for the third grading period
• 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟕, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎 – No school for 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲 (to allow for the transition to the new building)
• 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎 – Staff Development 3-hour early student dismissal
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
As we move into the final stretch of the school year, please take a moment to review these important April 2026 calendar reminders and schedule updates for Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS):
• 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐 – End of the third grading period
• 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟑 – All GCPS schools & offices are closed
• 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟔 – All GCPS 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 as a make-up day
• 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟎 – Report cards released for the third grading period
• 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟕, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎 – No school for 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲 (to allow for the transition to the new building)
• 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎 – Staff Development 3-hour early student dismissal
For up-to-date information on the 2025-26 GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝟕𝐭𝐡 & 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 “𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐤” 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬
Seventh- and eighth-grade students at Southern Garrett High School (SGHS) recently transformed the media center into a high-stakes boardroom for a "Shark Tank" style competition. Led by Mr. John Coffman, SGHS Media Specialist, the Gifted & Talented (GT) program challenged young entrepreneurs to identify gaps in the current market and engineer original products to fill them.
The project required students to go beyond simple ideas, developing full business pitches and prototypes for inventions not yet available to consumers. After weeks of research and design, students presented their work to a panel of "sharks," defending their business models and answering questions about production and marketability.
"The energy and innovation in the room were incredible," said Mr. Coffman. "These students didn't just come up with ideas, they learned how to look at everyday problems with new eyes and design real solutions."
Highlights from the presentations included an electric bag to carry equipment for baseball and softball equipment, a meter that shows the amount of water in the stand of a live Christmas tree, an implantable knowledge chip that improves an individual’s memory, and more. These projects showcase the critical thinking and entrepreneurial spirit of Southern Garrett’s seventh- and eighth-grade GT class.
Seventh- and eighth-grade students at Southern Garrett High School (SGHS) recently transformed the media center into a high-stakes boardroom for a "Shark Tank" style competition. Led by Mr. John Coffman, SGHS Media Specialist, the Gifted & Talented (GT) program challenged young entrepreneurs to identify gaps in the current market and engineer original products to fill them.
The project required students to go beyond simple ideas, developing full business pitches and prototypes for inventions not yet available to consumers. After weeks of research and design, students presented their work to a panel of "sharks," defending their business models and answering questions about production and marketability.
"The energy and innovation in the room were incredible," said Mr. Coffman. "These students didn't just come up with ideas, they learned how to look at everyday problems with new eyes and design real solutions."
Highlights from the presentations included an electric bag to carry equipment for baseball and softball equipment, a meter that shows the amount of water in the stand of a live Christmas tree, an implantable knowledge chip that improves an individual’s memory, and more. These projects showcase the critical thinking and entrepreneurial spirit of Southern Garrett’s seventh- and eighth-grade GT class.
𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫: 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝟑/𝟐𝟓/𝟐𝟔
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, for staff development in the afternoon. County-wide staff development will take place in various schools and at Garrett College. For up-to-date information on the GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) will dismiss students three (3) hours early on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, for staff development in the afternoon. County-wide staff development will take place in various schools and at Garrett College. For up-to-date information on the GCPS calendar, please visit www.gcps.net/calendars.
𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝟑/𝟏𝟕/𝟐𝟔 - 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧/𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐝
Garrett County Public Schools' afternoon and evening activities are canceled for today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Garrett County Public Schools' afternoon and evening activities are canceled for today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Inclement Weather Update 3/17/26
Garrett County Public Schools will conduct a Virtual Learning Day (with live instruction) today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Schools will be closed for in-person learning.
Garrett County Public Schools will conduct a Virtual Learning Day (with live instruction) today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Schools will be closed for in-person learning.
𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐚𝐲 – 𝟑/𝟏𝟕/𝟐𝟔
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) is preparing for the possibility of a Virtual Learning Day on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. All necessary learning materials will be sent home with students today, Monday, March 16, 2026. No decision has been made at this time. A message will be sent through our regular media outlets and school system alerts no later than 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, regarding whether a virtual learning day will be implemented.
The GCPS 2026 Student Arts Fair takes place this Saturday, March 14th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center - Garrett College. Students throughout GCPS will have artwork displayed, performances will occur, and refreshments will be available to purchase from the Southern Band Boosters.
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞:
9:00 a.m. High School Band
9:30 a.m. Middle School Band
10:00 a.m. Elementary Band
11:00 a.m. Elementary Chorus
11:30 a.m. Middle School Chorus
12:00 p.m. High School Chorus
12:45 p.m. Accident Elementary Theatre
1:00 p.m. Southern High Junior Theatre
1:15 p.m. Yough Glades Elementary Theatre
1:30 p.m. Southern High Theatre
1:45 p.m. Northern Middle Theatre
2:00 p.m. Broad Ford Broadway Bobcat Theatre
2:15 p.m. Northern High Theatre
Of note, artwork will be taken down starting at 2:00 p.m., and not every student's art is represented in the arts fair.
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞:
9:00 a.m. High School Band
9:30 a.m. Middle School Band
10:00 a.m. Elementary Band
11:00 a.m. Elementary Chorus
11:30 a.m. Middle School Chorus
12:00 p.m. High School Chorus
12:45 p.m. Accident Elementary Theatre
1:00 p.m. Southern High Junior Theatre
1:15 p.m. Yough Glades Elementary Theatre
1:30 p.m. Southern High Theatre
1:45 p.m. Northern Middle Theatre
2:00 p.m. Broad Ford Broadway Bobcat Theatre
2:15 p.m. Northern High Theatre
Of note, artwork will be taken down starting at 2:00 p.m., and not every student's art is represented in the arts fair.
𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟏𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠
During the March Board meeting, new curricula for Elementary English Language Arts (ELA) and Grades 6-8 Science were approved. This approval follows a public review period held from February 11 to March 4, 2026, which provided stakeholders with an opportunity to evaluate materials and submit feedback. The new instructional programs are set for district-wide implementation at the start of the 2026-27 school year.
