James M. Bennett High School
Salisbury
Principal: Steven E. Grudis
sgrudis@wcboe.org
410-677-5141
http://www.wcboe.org/schools/jmb/

James M. Bennett High School would like to welcome a new member to the administrative team for the 2011-2012 school year. John Kotz assumes the position of Dean of Students; he comes to us from Wicomico High School where he served as a technology teacher. He joins Steve Grudis, Principal, Kim Pinhey, Assistant Principal, James Cook, Assistant Principal, and Joe Raffa, Dean of Students. We are proud of the JMB history of excellence and the variety of programs that we provide for our students. They have been recognized consistently at the regional, state and national level for programs such as It’s Academic, Mock Trial, Future Business Leaders of America and Math Team. We are proud of our baseball team and coaches for being the current 3A State Champion. Our school wide objective this year will be to continue to show improvements in three areas: attendance, academics and athletics/fine arts. We also wish to remind students and parents that school begins at 7:45 a.m., and at 2:45 p.m. the school day will end.
Key date: Wednesday, Aug. 24 PTSA Back to School Night 5-8 p.m. At this time forms should be turned in to guidance, parents can pick up Family Portal information and students may get their schedules if all of their paperwork is turned in.

Mardela Middle and High School
24940 Delmar Road
Mardela Springs, MD 21837
Grades 6-12
Principal: Frederick L. Briggs
rbriggs@wcboe.org
410-677-5142
www.wcboe.org/schools/mmhs

Mardela will continue to utilize its strong community support in conjunction with its outstanding staff to create a culture of learning for each and every student at MMHS. Mardela’s leadership team consists of new Principal Frederick L. Briggs, Assistant Principals Shawn Gardner and Frank Grate, with Sharon Cooper serving as the Dean of Students. This year the staff will be focusing on making cross-curricular connections for students as research shows that students remember information longer when they use what they have learned in a variety of contexts and use of skills across disciplines helps build student confidence. Mardela is very proud of its continued student success on the state MSA and HSA assessments and will look to build on these successes this coming year while introducing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into the middle school grade levels. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key dates: Aug. 25, Back-to-School BBQ 4:30-6:30 p.m. Families can get their student’s schedule when they bring a completed copy of the student data form to the BBQ. Sept. 12, school pictures. Homecoming will be returning to the fall sports season with Homecoming activities the week of October 17-21.

Parkside High School
Salisbury
Grade 9-12
Principal: Micah Stauffer
mstauffe@wcboe.org
410-677-5143
www.wcboe.org/school/phs
Parkside CTE
410-677-5144
http://cte.wcboe.org/

This is Parkside’s 36th year of excellent service to Wicomico County. Principal Micah Stauffer, Assistant Principal Christel Savage, Assistant Principal Ron Greene, Assistant Principal Dave Churchman, and Dean of Students Jeffrey Dumpson form our outstanding team of administrators. Our school spirit shined through last year during Homecoming, Winter Formal, Prom, athletic events, and performances. Our students have worked hard both in and out of the classroom to achieve success. The Parkside Robotics Team competed at the state level and SkillsUSA had two students make it all the way to the national competition in Kansas City. In addition, our band, chorus, and athletic teams received many awards for their accomplishments this past year. Career and Technology Education (CTE) begins its 15th year at Parkside High School and 46th year of providing a high-quality technical education to high school students from throughout Wicomico County. Each year, CTE serves more than 900 students from the four county high schools in 20 technical programs. Throughout the summer, Parkside teachers have been attending professional development and preparing to take our students to new heights. Our primary focus is to continue to provide all students with quality instruction while fostering a positive learning environment within our school community. Parkside looks forward to welcoming our students back to a year filled with success and high student achievement. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key Dates: Aug. 25, Back to School Night 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.; 4:30-5:30 p.m., pick up class schedules, 5:30-6 p.m. business meeting, 6-7:30 p.m. teacher visitation. Aug. 29, 9th grade transition day. Aug. 30, all students report.

Wicomico High School
Salisbury
Grades 9-12
JROTC, Visual and Performing Arts Program
Principal: Don R. Brady
dobrady@wcboe.org
410-677-5146
www.wcboe.org/schools/wihi

Wicomico High School is thrilled welcome two new members to the administrative team for 2011-2012. Lavion Bratten will assume the responsibilities as Dean of Students after having taught Business Education at Wicomico High School from 2005-2011. Michele McGoogan will also be joining Wicomico High School as Dean of Students; she comes to us from Bennett Middle School where she served as Math Coach. They will join Don R. Brady, Principal, Lillian Blake and Stephen Lovellette, Assistant Principals, as returning members of the leadership team at Wicomico High School. Parent involvement is a real focus. Parents are strongly encouraged to form partnerships with Wi-Hi as we work together for high student achievement. Parent input will be profoundly critical as we, as a staff, ask, "What should our response be when kids don't learn?" The entire staff at Wi-Hi is committed to responding to individual student needs. Our teachers have created a list of essential skills that will help students understand what they should know and be able to do after completing each term. We will monitor each student’s progress and respond with support as needed. The staff at Wicomico High School pledges to work together to clarify student learning goals, provide additional support and time when students struggle, and extend or enrich learning when students have already mastered the intended outcomes. Wi-Hi also continues to enjoy the wonderful partnership established with Oak Ridge Baptist Church and the various resources Oak Ridge provides to assist with high student achievement. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key dates: Aug. 25, The Freshman Academy will be holding a 9th Grade Summer Cookout and orientation from 4-6 p.m. Sept. 26, all Wicomico High School parents and students are invited to join us for Back-to-School Night/Open House 5-7 p.m.

Choices
Adventist Drive, Salisbury
Grades 6-12
Principal: Kelley Morris-Springston
kmorris@wcboe.org
410-677-5220

The Choices Chargers are keyed up for another wonderful school year. Our
dedicated team of teachers and staff are ready to energize youth for the future. Choices, under the leadership of Kelley Morris-Springston, principal, and David Allen Miles, Dean of Students, is proud to serve students in grades 6 through 12. We look forward to another year of partnering with our faith based partner The Tabernacle.
Key dates: Aug. 26 – Open House 1-3 p.m. Oct. 11, first PTA meeting of the year.

Wicomico Evening High School
Located in Wicomico High School Building E
Salisbury
Wicomico Evening High School Evening program for anyone 16 and older to complete the requirements to earn a Maryland High School Diploma
Coordinator: Dave Harner, dharner@wcboe.org
Lead Teacher: Anthony Giddens, tgiddens@wcboe.org
410-677-4537

Evening High School is designed to help students,16 or older, who are enrolled in other Wicomico County high schools and who need to take classes to “stay on track” for graduation. It also serves anyone ages 16-20 who wishes to return to school to complete the requirements to earn a Maryland High School Diploma. Registration periods are in September and January.
Key dates: Registration for the fall semester will be held in Building E of Wicomico High School from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13. To register, bring in birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of residency (any utility bill or rent/mortgage statement), and transcript (from last school attended). Students attending any Wicomico County high school during the day and wishing to take classes at the Evening High School must bring in a blue form completed by the high school guidance counselor. Sept. 14, fall semester classes begin.

Bennett Middle School
200 East College Ave.
Salisbury MD, 21804
410-677-5140
http://www.wcboe.org/schools/bms/
Principal: Liza W. Hastings
lhastin@wcboe.org

Bennett Middle School will continue to focus on improving student achievement through high levels of rigor, transdisciplinary performance-based activities, and writing in all classrooms. This focus will be led by a strong staff of outstanding teachers, support personnel, and administrators. The school welcomes Mrs. Liza Hastings, principal, and Ms. Kathy Still, assistant principal to the existing administrative team of Ike Humphrey, assistant principal and Tikitia Glover, dean of students. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m. Student engagement will be stressed in all classrooms along with positive behaviors supported through a PBIS program (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports). BMS is looking forward to continuing the STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) Academy initiative. The “One School, One Book" program will again be sponsored by the PTA to encourage reading among the entire student body as well as staff. Parents are strongly encouraged to be partners in the middle school experience and are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities to participate at BMS.
Key dates: Aug. 25, PTA Back-to-School Night/Open House 5-7 p.m.

Pittsville Elementary and Middle
Pittsville
Grades 3-8
Principal: Michael Cody
mcody@wcboe.org
410-677-5811
www.wcboe.org/schools/pems/

Pittsville Elementary and Middle School, under the leadership of Principal Michael T.
Cody and Assistant Principal Rebecca Doss, continues to work toward the requirements
of No Child Left Behind while maintaining a safe, child-centered learning environment
for all students. The Pittsville staff would like to welcome four new faces to its faculty
and staff: JoAnn Peabody, Media Associate; Elisabeth Tollett, PE Instructor; Debbie Dashiell, Math PD Coach; and Amanda Banks, Reading PD Coach. The administration of Pittsville along with the faculty and staff look forward to another wonderful year and the opportunity of having a part in the lives of the children that we serve, guide and instruct. We would also like to take this time to thank our faith-based partner, Ayres United Methodist Church of Pittsville, and our business partner, PNC Bank of Pittsville, for their support and help throughout the school year. This year, Pittsville Elementary and Middle School will be joining several others schools in our county by implementing the PBIS program. This program focuses on the positive behaviors of students and sheds light on their day-by-day selection of good choices.
Key dates: Aug. 25, Grade 3 and Grade 6 Transition/Back to School Night from 6-8 p.m. Aug. 29, First Day of School; school opens for all Pittsville students at 8 a.m. Sept. 8, grades 4, 5, 7 and 8 Back to School Night from 6-8 p.m. Oct. 12, Family Night: PTA Business Meeting at 6 p.m. and class visitation from 6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 10-14, Fall Book Fair. Oct. 15, PTA Scavenger Hunt. Please check the Pipeline, the school monthly newsletter, and listen to the ParentLink phone calls for other important dates.

Salisbury Middle
Salisbury
Principal: Amy Eskridge
aeskrid@wcboe.org
410-677-5149
www.wcboe.org/schools/sms

The Salisbury Middle leadership team welcomes Paige Greenwood as its new 6th grade Dean of Students, joining Principal Amy Eskridge, Assistant Principal Glenda Sinclair and Assistant Principal Michael Bievenour. The staff at Salisbury Middle is dedicated to
providing excellence in education through innovative teaching, a wide variety of after-school academic, athletic, social activities, and a willingness to work collaboratively with the community. It continues to be the goal of the SMS administration and staff to focus
on MSA scores through innovative instruction that creates positive relationships with all students and parents. By focusing on reading and writing across the curriculum, our students will continue to "FINISH ON TOP" as their entire program is strengthened in through enhanced professional development for all teachers. SMS is proud to be the home of Wicomico County’s 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year, Chad Pavlekovich, and Optimist Oratorical Scholarship Winner, Michael Li. Salisbury Middle is well known for its technology use which includes an IPOD touch lab, various computer labs, traveling laptop carts, tech bundles, and newly acquired Nooks. Salisbury Middle is a Gold PBIS School, is STEM rich, and hosts an array activities throughout the year including the “One School, One Book” Program, CSI Family Night, STARS Family Night, Geography Bee, NJHS, band, orchestra, choir, basketball, track, cheer, step, field hockey, and dodgeball. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key dates: Aug 25, Open House for all students and families, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 3, Back-to-School Night at 6 p.m.

Wicomico Middle
Salisbury
Principal: Lillie Giddens
lgiddens@wcboe.org
410-677-5145
www.wcboe.org/schools/wms

Wicomico Middle School is pleased to welcome a new member to the administrative team for the 2011-2012 school year. Brian Briggs assumes the position of Assistant Principal; he comes to us from Salisbury Middle where he served as Dean of Students. He joins Lillie Giddens, Principal, Sheree Douglas-Johnson, Assistant Principal, and Susan Jackson, Dean of Students. We are proud of the academic gains our students made this year. We will continue to infuse technology to support the delivery of quality instruction in large and small group settings, and utilize positive behavior intervention strategies (PBIS) to encourage all students to perform to their fullest potential while displaying positive attitudes and making appropriate choices. Also, the Wicomico County Health Department’s Wellness Center, the WISE program, the arts and sports programs, and the PTA will continue to assist in strengthening the academic and social development of our students and their families by providing on-site health-related services, and after-school and evening programs that enrich and extend students’ well being and learning opportunities. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key dates: Aug. 25, Open House 4-6 p.m. Parents can pick up student’s schedules when they turn in completed forms sent in the invitation to Open House. They may also pick up Family Portal information in the Guidance office. Sept. 19, PTA/Fall Family Fling, 6-8 p.m.

Mardela Middle and High School
24940 Delmar Road
Mardela Springs, MD 21837
Grades 6-12
Principal: Frederick L. Briggs
rbriggs@wcboe.org
410-677-5142
www.wcboe.org/schools/mmhs

Mardela will continue to utilize its strong community support in conjunction with its outstanding staff to create a culture of learning for each and every student at MMHS. Mardela’s leadership team consists of new Principal Frederick L. Briggs, Assistant Principals Shawn Gardner and Frank Grate, with Sharon Cooper serving as the Dean of Students. This year the staff will be focusing on making cross-curricular connections for students as research shows that students remember information longer when they use what they have learned in a variety of contexts and use of skills across disciplines helps build student confidence. Mardela is very proud of its continued student success on the state MSA and HSA assessments and will look to build on these successes this coming year while introducing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into the middle school grade levels. Please note the new school hours: School will start at 7:45 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Key dates: Aug. 25, Back-to-School BBQ 4:30-6:30 p.m. Families can get their student’s schedule when they bring a completed copy of the student data form to the BBQ. Sept. 12, school pictures. Homecoming will be returning to the fall sports season with Homecoming activities the week of October 17-21.

Choices
Adventist Drive, Salisbury
Grades 6-12
Principal: Kelley Morris-Springston
kmorris@wcboe.org
410-677-5220

The Choices Chargers are keyed up for another wonderful school year. Our
dedicated team of teachers and staff are ready to energize youth for the future. Choices, under the leadership of Kelley Morris-Springston, principal, and David Allen Miles, Dean of Students, is proud to serve students in grades 6 through 12. We look forward to another year of partnering with our faith based partner The Tabernacle.
Key dates: Aug. 26 – Open House 1-3 p.m. Oct. 11, first PTA meeting of the year.

August 2011

Aug. 4
Back-To-School Rally. Wicomico County Branch #7028 of the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People will hold its annual Back-To-School Rally at Salisbury Middle School, 607 Morris St. in Salisbury, from 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Motivational speakers, entertainment, and free school supplies for those attending. 410-543-4187

Aug. 17
Student assignment letters mailed for the 2011-12 school year

NOTE: Schools will hold open houses for the 2011-12 school year Aug. 24-26. Please check the complete listing at http://www.wcboe.org/news/open-house-schedule-for-the-2011-12-school-year

Aug. 29
Schools open for students in grades 1-6 and 9 (All grades attend at Pittsville, Grade 6 only attends at Mardela). Prek/K report as scheduled by assigned school.

Aug. 30
All students grades 1-12 report to school. Prek/K report as scheduled by assigned school.

September 2011

5
Labor Day. Schools and Central Office closed

6-8 and 12-13
Evening High School Registration, Wicomico High Building E. Classes Sept. 14-Jan. 12.

10
ACT administration for juniors/seniors who signed up by Aug. 12

11
National Day of Service and Remembrance

13
Wicomico County Board of Education monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Board of Education Auditorium

16
Deadline for juniors/seniors to register for Oct. 22 administration of the ACT

30
Professional Day. Schools closed for students.

October 2011

1
Administration of SAT I & II for juniors/seniors who have signed up. Check with guidance office.

3-14
High School Assessments (HSAs) for students who previously took but did not pass one or more assessments

8
STEM Saturday, 10 a.m.-noon. Watch www.wcboe.org for information.

11
Wicomico County Board of Education monthly meeting, 1:30 p.m., Board of Education Auditorium

12
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) administered, grades 9, 10, 11 (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for juniors)

20
WCEA Countywide Casual Day for Scholarship Fund

21
MSEA Convention (Schools closed; Central Office open)

22
ACT administration for juniors/seniors who signed up by Sept. 16

November 2011

1
End of 1st Marking Period (44 days)

4
Professional Day (Schools closed for students; Central Office open)

4
Deadline for juniors/seniors to register for Dec. 10 administration of the ACT

5
Administration of SAT I & II for juniors/seniors who have signed up. Check with guidance office.

8
Wicomico County Board of Education monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Board of Education Auditorium

9
Report cards distributed

12
STEM Saturday, 10 a.m.-noon. Watch www.wcboe.org for information.

14-18
American Education Week

15
Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night, Beaver Run Elementary School, 7 p.m.

23-25
Thanksgiving Holidays. Schools and Central Office close at regular time Nov. 22, reopen Nov. 28.


December 2011

3
Administration of SAT I & II for juniors/seniors who have signed up. Check with guidance office.

10
ACT administration for juniors/seniors who signed up by Nov. 4

13
Wicomico County Board of Education monthly meeting, 1:30 p.m., Board of Education Auditorium

23-31
Winter Holidays. Schools close at regular time Dec. 22 and reopen Jan. 3. Central Office closed for Winter Holidays on Dec. 23, 26, 30 and Jan. 2.

January 2012

2
Schools and Central Office closed for Winter Holidays.

3
Schools and Central Office reopen

9-20
High School Assessments (HSAs) for students who previously took but did not pass one or more assessments

10
Wicomico County Board of Education monthly meeting, 7 p.m., Board of Education Auditorium

13
Deadline for juniors/seniors to register for Feb. 11 administration of the ACT

14
STEM Saturday, 10 a.m.-noon. See www.wcboe.org for information.

16
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday. Schools and Central Office closed

17
Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night, at Mardela Middle and High School, 7 p.m.

20
End of 2nd Marking Period (46 days)

23-24
Professional Days. Schools closed for students. Central Office open.

25
Evening High School Commencement, 7 p.m., Prince Street Elementary

28
Administration of SAT I & II for juniors/seniors who have signed up. Check with guidance office.

30
Report cards distributed

Wicomico school system representatives recently sat down for a friendly discussion with City of Salisbury officials and others about plans for improvements to the Onley-Bateman-South Division intersection. Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said he believes significant progress occurred during that discussion and all parties agreed that the intersection needs improvement, but any substantial improvements are likely to be a long time coming.

For the safety of students, families and staff, Wicomico Schools will begin using its Onley Road accesses for the 2011-12 school year, which begins on Aug. 29. Dr. Fredericksen informed the city of the school system’s plans in an Aug. 15 letter to Salisbury City Council President Terry Cohen, stating that “we will be utilizing Onley Road for school bus and other use this school year as we deem necessary for the safety of our students and community.”

“The safety of our students, families, staff, and patrons is our first priority,” Dr. Fredericksen said today. “We are responsible for the safety of approximately the approximately 2,350 sixth – twelfth grade students and 291 staff of James M. Bennett High and Bennett Middle, and countless family members, visitors, mentors, volunteers, vendors, and others who are at this site for all or part of every day during the school year and many alternate times throughout the year. Every school day there are hundreds and hundreds of walkers, bus riders, student drivers, staff drivers, and a large number of families who drive students to and from school. Currently, all of these vehicles travel in and out of the site via three entrances on College Avenue, causing major traffic delays on and off site and safety concerns for pedestrians and motorists alike.”

Prior to the opening of the new James M. Bennett High School, the Wicomico County Board of Education made significant improvements along College Avenue to improve traffic flow and enhance safety. These improvements, done in consultation with the city, included the plan to move bus traffic to Onley Road to separate this large vehicle traffic from other motorists as well as walkers. Both the College Avenue upgrades and the plan to use Onley Road were undertaken with the knowledge that the city and county had already agreed to improve their portions of Onley Road and Onley-Bateman-South Division intersection. To date, only the county and the Board of Education have completed these improvements.

To allow more time for the planning of improvements to the Onley-Bateman-South Division intersection, the school system in August 2010 made the decision to temporarily postpone its use of Onley Road for bus traffic. The temporary measures put in place to move all traffic through the lots on the College Avenue side of the two schools were a daily safety concern and a hazard for all who drove or walked on the property during arrival and dismissal.

In late spring, the school system completed the access adjustments, parking lots and roadways needed to make optimal current use of the site (until Bennett Middle opens in its new location in Fruitland and the James M. Bennett High project is completed with full use of the current site). “We must now act in a manner to improve safety for this site,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “Our arrangements have not been finalized, but by removing some or all of our JMB buses from the College Avenue access points and permanently relocating their services to the Onley access lot, we can reduce the traffic count by up to 22 large vehicles carrying up to approximately 900 students.” Buses moving to Onley Road would utilize a bus drop-off designed for that purpose, with no need for buses to cross pedestrian pathways.

“I know that the Wicomico County Board of Education and the City of Salisbury are absolutely committed to improving the safety of our students, families, staff, and patrons before anyone is hurt,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “We look forward to continuing discussions and planning for improvements to this intersection even as we begin to make effective use of all access points and roads serving the Bennett Complex for the safety of students, staff, families, and the community.”

It’s nearly time for the start of the 2011-12 school year. Wicomico teachers reported for the new school year on Monday, Aug. 22, and will spend the next few days preparing their classrooms and lesson plans, receiving professional development, and welcoming students and families during open houses (complete schedule below).

The new school year will begin Monday, Aug. 29 for most Wicomico students. Students in grades 1-6 and 9 will attend that day, with students in prekindergarten and kindergarten reporting as scheduled by their assigned school. (Exceptions to the above: At Pittsville Elementary and Middle, all grades attend. At Mardela Middle and High, only grade 6 attends on Aug. 29.) Please note that many schools have new start and end times, listed below.

On Tuesday, Aug. 30, all students in grades 1-12 will attend, with students in prekindergarten and kindergarten reporting as scheduled by their assigned school.

This Friday, Aug. 26, all staff members of Wicomico County Public Schools will attend a staff kickoff assembly at the Wicomico High School Auditorium, with performances by the Mardela High School Marching Band and The Edge-ucators band, and motivational speakers including Board of Education President Ron Willey, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen, assistant superintendents Dr. Cathy Townsend and Dr. Margo Handy, and Wicomico Teacher of the Year Chad Pavlekovich. Staff members have been assigned by department and school level to attend one of the assemblies (scheduled for 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.). Schools and departments will be closed while their staff members are at the assembly, so please call before visiting a school or office Friday morning.

For additional Back to School information, please visit the Back to School page at http://www.wcboe.org/boe/backtoschool.php.

Open House Schedule

Elementary:

Beaver Run Elementary: Thursday, Aug. 25, 1-3 p.m., with the Snowy Bus there. 410-677-5101

Charles H. Chipman Elementary: Thursday, Aug. 25, Open House with classroom visitation 2-3 p.m., followed by a picnic from 3-4:30 p.m. at Lake Street Park with Chipman’s partner school, Glen Avenue Elementary. Food, families and fun! 410-677-5814

Delmar Elementary: Friday, Aug. 26 1-3 p.m. 410-677-5178

East Salisbury Elementary: Friday, Aug. 26 1:30-3:30 p.m. 410-677-5803

Fruitland Primary: Friday, Aug. 26 1:30-2:30 p.m. 410-677-5171

Fruitland Intermediate: Friday, Aug. 26 2:30-3:30 p.m. 410-677-5805

Glen Avenue Elementary: Thursday, Aug. 25, from 1-2 p.m. Open House, with a community picnic with partner school Charles H. Chipman Elementary from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Lake Street Park. 410-677-5806

North Salisbury Elementary: Friday, Aug. 26, Open House for all students, 2-4 p.m. Buster the Bus will serve as the official greeter. NSS will offer free school supplies to all students who attend, and several community partners will be on hand to show their support of the school as well. The PTA will be at the Open House to welcome students and families and give them the opportunity to join the PTA, and share information about events in the upcoming school year. 410-677-5807

Northwestern Elementary: Friday, Aug. 26 3-4 p.m. 410-677-5808. The school will
offer free school supplies to all students who attend. The PTA will be there to welcome families and give them the opportunity to join the PTA. 410-677-5808

Pemberton Elementary: Thursday, Aug. 25, Open House 3-4 p.m., parents and students can visit their teacher(s) and tour the school. 410-677-5809

Pinehurst Elementary: Aug. 26, 3-4 p.m. 410-677-5810

Pittsville Elementary and Middle: Transition Open House/Back to School Night for grades 3 and 6 from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25. Back to School Night from 6-8 p.m.Thursday, Sept. 8, for grades 4, 5, 7 and 8.

Prince Street Elementary: Open House Friday, Aug. 26 from 1:30-3 p.m. 410-677-5813

West Salisbury Elementary: Friday, Aug. 26, Open House luncheon 1:30-3:30 p.m. Meet your teachers. 410-677-5816

Westside Primary: Open House at school Friday, Aug. 26, 1:30-2:30 p.m. 410-677-5117

Westside Intermediate: Open house at school Friday, Aug. 26, 2:30-3:30 p.m. The Snowy Bus will be at the school 2-3 p.m. 410-677-5118

Willards Elementary: Thursday, Aug. 25, the faculty and staff will welcome students and their families to a new school year during a Back to School Ice Cream Social from 4-5:30 p.m. Students can socialize with friends, meet their teacher, and see their classrooms. 410-677-5819

Wicomico Early Learning Center: Thursday, Aug. 25 Open House and Ice Cream Social 1-3 p.m. Parent informational meeting from 1-1:30 p.m. and classroom visitations from 1:30-3 p.m. 410-677-5900

Middle:

Bennett Middle School: Thursday, Aug. 25 PTA Back-to-School Night/Open House Aug. 25 from 5-7 p.m. 410-677-5140

Salisbury Middle: Open House for all students and families Thursday, Aug. 25, from 5-7 p.m. 410-677-5149

Wicomico Middle School: Thursday, Aug. 25, Open House 4-6 p.m. Families can get their student's schedule when they submit the student data forms sent in the invitation. 410-677-5145.

Pittsville Elementary and Middle: Transition Open House/Back to School Night for grades 3 and 6 from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25. Back to School Night from 6-8 p.m.Thursday, Sept. 8, for grades 4, 5, 7 and 8.

Mardela Middle and High: Back-to-School BBQ Thursday, Aug. 25 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Families can get their student’s schedule when they bring a completed copy of the student data form to the BBQ. Any questions – please call the school @ 410-677-5142.

High School:

James M. Bennett High School: PTSA Back to School Night Wednesday, Aug. 24, 5-8 p.m. At this time forms should be turned in to guidance, parents can pick up Family Portal information, and students may get their schedules if all of their paperwork is turned in.

Mardela Middle and High: Back-to-School BBQ Thursday, Aug. 25 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Families can get their student’s schedule when they bring a completed copy of the student data form to the BBQ. Any questions – please call the school @ 410-677-5142.

Parkside High: Thursday, Aug. 25, Back to School Night 4:30-7:30 p.m. (4:30-5:30 p.m., pick up class schedules, 5:30-6 p.m. business meeting, 6-7:30 p.m. teacher visitation). 410-677-5143

Wicomico High: The Freshman Academy will hold a 9th Grade Summer Cookout and orientation on Thursday, Aug. 25 from 4-6 p.m. Back-to-School Night will be held Sept. 26 from 5-7 p.m.

Choices: Friday, Aug. 26, 1-3 p.m. 410-677-5220
School Start/End Times Adjusted for 2011-12 School Year

School start and end times for some Wicomico County Public Schools have been adjusted by 15 minutes for the 2011-12 school year as the school system strives to provide transportation efficiently and economically so as much education funding as possible can be spent in the classroom.

Schools that will start and end 15 minutes earlier next year:

Secondary schools (except Pittsville Middle, no change) will begin classes at 7:45 a.m. and end the day at 2:45 p.m. These schools include:

Bennett Middle
James M. Bennett High
Mardela Middle and High
Parkside High
Salisbury Middle
Wicomico Middle
Wicomico High

Some elementary schools will also begin and end 15 minutes earlier than the current schedule, as follows:

Prince Street Elementary will start at 8 a.m. and end at 2:30 p.m.

The Magnet programs at North Salisbury Elementary and Pemberton Elementary will start at 8:15 a.m. and end at 2:15 p.m.

Delmar Elementary will begin at 8:15 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.

North Salisbury Elementary and Pemberton Elementary students, along with students at West Salisbury Elementary and Pinehurst Elementary, will start at 8:45 a.m. and end at 3:15 p.m.

Schools that will start and end 15 minutes later in 2011-12, starting at 9:15 a.m. and ending at 3:45 p.m.:

Beaver Run Elementary
East Salisbury Elementary
Fruitland Intermediate
Fruitland Primary
Westside Primary
Westside Intermediate

Schools that will have no change in start and end times in 2011-12:

Pittsville Elementary and Middle
Charles H. Chipman Elementary
Glen Avenue Elementary
Northwestern Elementary
Willards Elementary
Wicomico Early Learning Center
Choices

New Bus Serving Lists, Stop Information Available Online

Due to the changes in school start/end times, some Wicomico school bus routes and stop times will be different this year. Many schools included updated transportation information in the assignment letters that were mailed out on Aug. 17. To review the updated bus transportation information by school, and to obtain the name and phone number of the bus driver in case you have questions, visit:

http://www.wcboe.org/departments/Transportation/busservinglist.php

High School Activity Fees for 2011-2012

High school students participating in athletics, cheerleading and/or marching band/band front will be required to pay participation fees this year. Fees will be collected as follows:

JV/Varsity Football - $45
Other Sports - $40
Cheerleading - $30
High School Marching Band/Band Front - $20

Students will receive additional information about these fees from coaches and/or band directors.

Revised Exam Exemption Incentive Program in Effect for 2011-12

The High School Exam Exemption Incentive Program was reviewed and revised late last spring; the revised policy is posted on the high school websites. Key changes to the policy are:

• A student must have taken and passed all of the High School Assessment (HSA) exams to be eligible for the exam exemption incentive, provided all other criteria are met. Since most students take the HSAs at the end of the sophomore year, only juniors and seniors can meet all of the criteria to participate in the Exam Exemption Incentive Program.

• Once a student has accumulated three tardies, every three referred incidents of tardiness (i.e., lateness) will count as an absence. To qualify for the exam exemption incentive, a student can have no more than 4 days absent with an A semester average, 3 days absent with a B semester average, and 2 days absent with a C semester average; the absences are either excused or unexcused.

PSAT Oct. 12

The PSAT will be administered on Wednesday, Oct. 12. This year all grade 10 students will be required to sit for the assessment. The school system will pay the registration fee for all students in grades 9-11 who take the assessment.

High School Assessments (HSAs) Reduced to Three

The Maryland State Department of Education has eliminated the Government HSA from the HSA Program. Students will continue to take the HSAs for Algebra/Data Analysis, English and Biology. Passing these exams outright, achieving a combined score of 1208 on the three HSA exams to meet the state’s threshold for passing, or completing Bridge projects remains a condition for graduation.

Meal Prices and Food Service Initiatives

For 2011-12, the cost of paid breakfast and lunch will rise 10 cents, with the following prices in effect:

Elementary, $1.10 breakfast, $2.10 lunch
Secondary, $1.10 breakfast, $2.35 lunch.

Wicomico's last increase in meal prices was in 2006. The Wicomico County Board of Education approved the new meal prices in accordance with a federal mandate that paid meal prices be increased to ensure that the federal reimbursement for free and reduced-price meals does not help to cover the cost of paid meals. Food Service is working on other federal mandates, such as including a protein in each day’s breakfast menu, and increasing the portion size of fruits and vegetables.

Wicomico is about to launch MealPayPlus to enable parents and guardians to manage student meal accounts online. Charles H. Chipman Elementary becomes the sixth Wicomico elementary school to participate in the Maryland Meals for Achievement classroom breakfast program. Three new schools, Glen Avenue Elementary, Chipman and West Salisbury Elementary are now participating in the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program, with fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to lunch two to three times a week along with links to the classroom.

Central Office of Enrollment Now Open

The new Central Office of Enrollment is now open in Annex 4 of the Board of Education to serve the enrollment needs of Wicomico families. The Central Office of Enrollment handles pre-registration for all students in prek-Grade 5, with school staff completing the enrollment process with scheduling and teacher assignments. (Families with both elementary and secondary students can pre-register all of their children at the Central Office of Enrollment. For now, enrollment for secondary students will continue to take place at the middle and high schools.)

When a Parent arrives at the Board of Education Building for enrollment, they will be directed to Annex 4, the smallest of the four red portables located between the Board of Education and Wicomico High School. Families will find friendly, knowledgeable staff to assist with enrollment needs. No appointment is needed; the office is open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The Central Office of Enrollment may be contacted at 410-677-4438.

Publications for Students, Families

The student agenda books will have a new look this year, as they are now being printed in-house, with support from a number of donors, to save money during these challenging budget times. The county calendar/handbook commonly known as the “values calendar” will not be published due to cost constraints. Schools and the school system will use resources such as websites, school newsletters, and ParentLink calls to share important information about events.

Free Vitamins for Elementary Students

Wicomico Schools are proud to partner with Riverside Pharmacies in Salisbury for the Riverside Pharmacy “Healthy Kids are Smart Kids” campaign. The goal of Riverside’s campaign is to ensure that elementary-age children receive vitamins, with parents who sign up receiving free vitamins for their children for a year. Information will be sent home in back-to-school packets for all elementary students in Wicomico County Public Schools. Parents and guardians can fill out and sign the enrollment form and turn it in at Riverside Pharmacy on Riverside Drive to receive the first free 30-day supply of vitamins, then return each month for a new bottle of vitamins. Enrollment forms are available now at Riverside Pharmacy, online at www.riversidepharmacies.com, and in some pediatricians’ offices. Riverside Pharmacy will kick off the “Smart Kids” program from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 24 with games, crafts, refreshments and a live broadcast with Cat Country 105.9 and The Wave 97.1 at Riverside Pharmacy, 540 Riverside Dr., Salisbury. Anyone bringing in school supplies to donate will receive a free gift.

The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that schools are opening, so please drive safely. In Wicomico County, schools open on Monday, Aug. 29, returning buses, parent transportation, and walkers to Wicomico streets and sidewalks.

Every year in Maryland, an average of two school-aged pedestrians are killed during school arrival and dismissal times, according to the Maryland State Highway Administration. The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting School Bus Enforcement and watch for drivers who pass and tailgate School Buses. They will also patrol School Zones to ensure the safety of Wicomico County’s children.

To reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, drivers should remember to:

• Plan ahead to allow for the extra school bus traffic that will be on the road. Leave a few minutes early for work so that you are not frustrated by delays.

• Stay a safe distance back from school buses, which stop frequently. Do not tailgate school buses. Remember, they are carrying precious cargo.

• Wait until the lights and other safety equipment on a stopped school bus indicate that it’s safe to continue driving. Do not pass a school bus with its red lights flashing. Not only do you risk a fine of up to $500, you risk hitting a child.

• Slow down in school zones and watch for children crossing the street. Obey the Crossing Guard when he or she signals for you to stop. Maryland Law states that you must stop for a pedestrian who has entered a crosswalk. The fine for violations is $90 and 1 Point on your Maryland driver’s License.

Students can support safer transportation – by bus, car or on foot -- by:

• Getting up in plenty of time to get to the bus stop safely.

• Wearing bright clothes so they can easily be seen by the bus driver and other drivers on the road.

• Staying a safe distance from the road while waiting for the bus, and not play around near cars.

• For young children, standing at the bus stop with an adult, and having an adult meet them when they get off the bus.

• Waiting until the bus fully stops before starting to get on or off.

• Using crosswalks when walking or riding a bicycle to school.

• Wearing a helmet to prevent head injury whenever riding a bike or skateboard. Maryland law states that children up to age 16 are required to wear helmets while riding a bicycle.

For more information about getting back to school safely, please contact Karen Waggoner at kwaggoner@wicomicocounty.org or 410-548-4892 or go to www.wicomicosheriff.com.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen announced Sunday that Wicomico County Public Schools will open on time and as scheduled on Monday, Aug. 29.

Reminder of the schedule for the opening of the 2011-12 school year:

The new school year will begin Monday, Aug. 29 for most Wicomico students. Students in grades 1-6 and 9 will attend that day, with students in prekindergarten and kindergarten reporting as scheduled by their assigned school. (Exceptions to the above: At Pittsville Elementary and Middle, all grades attend. At Mardela Middle and High, only grade 6 attends on Aug. 29.) Please note that many schools have new start and end times, listed below.

On Tuesday, Aug. 30, all students in grades 1-12 will attend, with students in prekindergarten and kindergarten reporting as scheduled by their assigned school.

Students in grades 9, 10 and 11 should mark their calendars now for Oct. 12 for the PSAT/NMSQT, an early measure of academic preparedness for college.

In Wicomico County high schools, the PSAT/NMSQT will be administered on Wednesday, Oct. 12 for ALL students in grade 10. The school system will pay the exam cost for all 10th-graders as well as all ninth- and 11th-graders who sign up for the exam through the guidance office.

The PSAT/NMSQT serves as an excellent preparation tool for the SAT, provides an evaluation of students’ academic skills, aids in college and career planning, and serves as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Corp. program, through which students can receive scholarships and recognition.

The PSAT/NMSQT focuses on three critically important skills: critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills. The PSAT/NMSQT contains the same type of questions as the SAT, except the PSAT/NMSQT does not include essays. The test will take approximately two hours and 10 minutes to complete. Students have prepared for the PSAT/NMSQT through their courses, and will be briefed on the upcoming exam by their teachers.

For additional information about the Oct. 12 administration of the PSAT/NMSQT administration in Wicomico County Public Schools, please check with the school guidance office or review online resources posted here: http://www.wcboe.org/boe/parents.php.

Notes from the Board of Education meetings held on Aug. 9, July 12 and June 28.

Board Notes August 2011

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting on Aug. 9:

Public Comment

Heard public comments from:

Mary Ashanti, President of the Wicomico County NAACP, who shared an article from the April issue of Ebony Magazine regarding zero tolerance discipline policy. Mrs. Ashanti spoke about the success of the NAACP Back-to-School Rally held at Salisbury Middle School on August 4 that over 386 students attended. She thanked Dr. Fredericksen, Mrs. Kim Finger, Mrs. Amy Eskridge and their staff for overall support with the event.

A parent who spoke about concerns regarding Title I services being eliminated from her child’s school.

A student from James M. Bennett High spoke regarding concerns with the transfers in the physical education department. The student was in support of a transferred PE teacher from JMB not being transferred.

Superintendent’s Report

Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen that:

Most employees have been hired to begin the new school year; we are still in the process of adjusting data in payroll regarding the actual number of employees hired and their specific pay levels.

In response to the public comment made at last month’s meeting regarding a concern with the administration at one of the schools, several meetings had been held with that commenter and additional meetings have been planned.

The Title I School Choice Option at Prince Street Elementary had 82 students request to be moved to a different school. Title I services have been eliminated from four schools due to the need to reallocate resources to meet instructional needs, resulting in staffing adjustments. Stated that it is disappointing to have had to reduce programs due to the lack of adequate funds.

Changes in school start and end times were made to eliminate school bus runs. School buses are testing routes to determine if any adjustments need to be made.

A meeting was held with the city Aug. 8 regarding the use of Onley Road to access James M. Bennett High to allow for a reduction in traffic and congestion on College Avenue.

The preliminary results have been received for the T.E.L.L. (Teaching, Empowering, Leading and Learning) Survey completed by educators. Results can be found at tellmaryland.org.
A book study group has begun on the book, Leading for Equity: The Pursuit of Excellence in Montgomery County Public Schools. There may be additional groups forming within our system.

The school system has been working on a gang policy and is in the process of rolling it out at the beginning of the school year.

There have been a number of construction projects during this summer in our schools. They are all going well and on track to begin the school year.

The athletic teams and marching bands are busy preparing to begin the year. You may have noticed or heard them outside practicing at our high schools.

We have a received a grant from the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention entitled “Disproportionate Minority Contact Reduction” in the amount of $73,250. This grant, which is 100% fully funded, will allow for support staff to develop a steering committee to assist in this area in collaboration with the Department of Juvenile Services.

U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski sent a letter applauding the school system and Judy Center for showcasing early childhood education services at the 2011 School Readiness Fair held on July 15.

Reports

Approved the monthly personnel matters report for certificated employees and received for information the monthly personnel matters report for classified employees.

GASB #45 Trustee

Approved Pandora Broadwater as the trustee for Aetna Retirement and the GASB #45 Investment Trust.

Grant Approval

Approved the $73,250 Disproportionate Minority Contact Reduction Grant to support efforts to reduce the over-representation of minorities in the juvenile justice system.

Comcast Internet Program for FARM Families

Supported the Comcast Internet Essential Program for FARM Families (those qualifying for participation in the Free and Reduced Meals Program. The school system will create awareness of Comcast’s initiative to provide eligible families with high-speed internet service for $9.95 a month, a $150 laptop for home use, and free internet training.

Tuition Rate 2011-12

Approved the Tuition Rates for Non-resident Students and Parkside CTE Students for FY 2011-2012.

Budget Calendar FY2012-13

Approved the Proposed Budget Calendar for FY2012-2013. Work on next year’s budget has already begun, due to a projected need for nearly $9 million more in cuts to the school system’s budget. Staff and Board discussions are occurring now and public information sessions will be held starting this fall.

Westside Primary Project

Approved Westside Primary School Vehicular Access Improvement Project Contract Modifications for contracting firm George and Lynch, Inc.

Professional Service Contract Awards

Approved Professional Service Contract Awards for Architectural and Engineering Firms for Miscellaneous Small Scale Contracts fees under $100,000.

Bid Awards

Approved the Bid for Lease Purchase Agreement for Equipment to Bank of America, as low responsive, responsible bidder.

Approved the Bid for Telecommunications Maintenance Contract Agreement to Baltimore Sound, Inc., as low responsive, responsible bidder

Approved the Bid for Technology Systems Integration –Job Order Contract Agreement to Baltimore Sounds, Inc. as low responsive, responsible bidder

Board Member Reports

Heard from Board Member Wright, the chairperson of the Charles W. Willis Award Committee that recognizes outstanding board member achievement. This year’s recipient of the award will receive it at the annual Maryland Association of Boards of Education conference in October.

Heard from Board Member Wright and President Willey that they were thankful for the meeting held with the city regarding the use of Onley Road. Wright stated that she has concerns for safety and for those who live in that area. Willey stated that we cannot go another year with all of the traffic be directed onto College Avenue; a decision will need to be made soon.

Heard from President Willey that Board Member Don Fitzgerald was not here today due to a medical appointment. He asked that Mr. Fitzgerald be kept in our thoughts.


July Notes from the Wicomico County Board of Education

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its July monthly meeting:

Reorganization of Board

With Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen presiding, the Board reorganized and elected officers for the 2011-12 year, as required each July. Ron Willey was elected President and Dr. Tyrone A. Chase was elected Vice President, both unanimously. "This is not a position I sought, but it's one I will accept in these very trying days, as we try to meet all of the challenges of providing an education for our students," Willey said. The Board thanked former President L. Michelle Wright for her service as president.

Board Member Appointments

Welcomed newly appointed Board member Dr. Carolyn J. Elmore, and reappointed Board member L. Michelle Wright, whose Board appointments were made by the governor. Each will serve a five-year term. "I'm excited to be here," Dr. Elmore said. "I hope I can be of service to the county school system and to the community."

Moment of Silence

Observed a moment of silence in memory of Mary Ann Hayman, a former food service worker.

Public Comments

A parent expressed concerns about the administration of an elementary school, and said she expects to have an appointment soon with the superintendent to discuss those concerns.

Superintendent's Report

Dr. Fredericksen informed the Board that:

An economic work session that included Dr. Memo Diriker, director of BEACON (Business, Economic, and Community Outreach Network), yielded a sobering look at future finances, and many more meetings and focus groups will take place in the coming months as the school system strives to meet ever increasing educational demands with declining resources. Next year's budget planning is already under way, with a 2% inflation rate used for planning purposes.

The Wicomico County Branch of the NAACP will hold its annual Back-To-School Rally at Salisbury Middle School, 607 Morris St. in Salisbury, from 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. The NAACP is expecting approximately 300 children from the public school system (prekindergarten through middle school) and their families to attend this rally, where they will hear motivational speakers and receive free school supplies. This event encourages each child to begin the school year ready to work and learn.

The school system now has a Back to School page on its website (www.wcboe.org). Click on "Back to School" above the photo gallery for information that will help families prepare for the 2011-12 school year, including information on the new school start and end times. Schools will mail out student assignment letters on Aug. 17. Wright suggested a ParentLink call to inform parents of bus route changes, once that information becomes available in early August. Dr. Fredericksen said the school system will consider providing computers for parent use at several places around the county so parents have a place to check bus information. Information will be shared with bus contractors as soon as possible after Aug. 1, so contractors have a chance to take practice runs and make adjustments.

Special Education recently completed a comprehensive audit which met or exceeded requirements in every single area.

He received a letter from the City of Salisbury requesting a friendly meeting to find common ground on the long-delayed Onley/Bateman/South Division intersection project. Dr. Fredericksen said he's looking forward to working with the city to explore options for improving traffic flow and safety for students, families and the community.

With additional Title I resources being committed to Prince Street Elementary School, due to it being a Title I school in improvement, four other schools (North Salisbury Elementary, Pemberton Elementary, Willards Elementary and Northwestern Elementary) will not have Title I services this year, due to limited resources for the program. The four schools were selected because while their percentage of economically disadvantaged students is high, it is below the school system average for elementary schools. In Wicomico County, more than 53% of students qualify for Free and Reduced Meals, and every elementary school but one exceeds the threshold for school-wide Title I services.

School climate is a concern, with more than half of students coming to school from homes with limited financial resources, and with employees now entering a third year without raises and with reduced funding for materials and supplies. The school system will be working to ensure that employees realize they are appreciated.

Wicomico County Public Schools will participate in a massive community visioning process on Aug. 3, and Board members are invited to participate.

Monthly Reports

Received for information the monthly summary of competitive grant proposals, which in the past month included $1,050,480 in approved grants. Another $509,529 in grant proposals have been submitted in the past month. The Board also received for information the personnel matters report on classified employees. The Board approved the July budget transfers and the personnel matters report for certificated employees. Wright noted that five of eight certificated staff members who left Wicomico Schools did so because of other jobs, mostly in neighboring county school systems, part of a trend that is cause for concern as Wicomico works to attract and retain a high quality workforce.

Board Member Reports

Wright said the Board made many difficult decisions to arrive at a final budget for Fiscal Year 2011-12, and the process needs to begin now of getting the word out and getting people, including the Wicomico County Council of PTAs, involved in crafting the FY 2012-13 budget. Dr. Fredericksen said that process will begin in August, and will continue throughout the year in the school system and in the community.

Willey said the Board is keeping Board member Donald Fitzgerald in its thoughts and prayers as he recovers from health issues.

Wright said she and others who attended the recent Eastern Shore superintendents' retreat learned a great deal from speakers such as the Del. Norman Conway, Maryland interim superintendent and the president of University of Maryland Baltimore County. Boards of education serve as a bridge between school system staff, county government, students, families and the community, and tips were given on how to stay focused and get the job done.

Marvin L. J. Blye said he recently participated in a review of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education (MABE) FY 2012-13 budget, as part of MABE's budget and planning committee. There will likely be some small increase in the amount school systems pay for MABE services, due to rising costs.

June 28 Notes from the Wicomico County Board of Education

The Wicomico County Board of Education at a year-end special meeting on June 28:

Monthly Reports

Received for information the personnel matters report on classified employees. The Board approved budget transfers and the personnel matters report for certificated employees.

Health Insurance Plan

Approved the Health Insurance Plan for Fiscal Year 2011-12. The Board received a 3.5% premium increase after the Wicomico County Public Entities Consortium agreed to increasing the year-end call from 5% to 7%. Using a premium reduction plan, employees and retirees will not be impacted by the increased annual premium cost, though costs for medical care and prescriptions will increase by approximately 3.67%. Dental and vision premiums will remain the same.

Budget Approved

Unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2011-2012 Consolidated Current Expense Budget for the budget year beginning July 1. The Consolidated Current Expense Budget of almost $168.6 million, a total that is nearly $4.9 million less than the previous year’s budget due to funding reductions from the county and federal governments. Funding for public education in Wicomico County has dropped by $15.8 million over the past two years. The Board said the budget represents the best efforts of the Wicomico County Public Schools to carry out its mission of educating all Wicomico County students in a time of declining funding for public education. The Board warned that while the budget process has been difficult for the past two years, it will be even more painful for Fiscal Year 2012-13, when the Superintendent and his staff are projecting budget shortfalls between $7 million to $10 million.

Family Involvement Policy

Approved an update of the Family Involvement Policy, which outlines a uniform, county-wide standard for creating partnerships between schools, families, and community for helping schools and families work together to support student success.

Textbook Adoptions

Approved the textbook "The Maryland Adventure" for use in all fourth-grade Social Studies classes. Approved the textbook "Myers' Psychology for AP" for AP (Advanced Placement) Psychology classes. Approved the textbook "Culinary Essentials" for use by students in the Culinary Arts program at Parkside High School CTE.

Wicomico County Athletic Handbook

Approved an updated version of the Wicomico County Athletic Handbook. The document outlines responsibilities of personnel, extracurricular activities eligibility, event planning, athletic rules and regulations, and contains health forms for student athletes. The entire handbook will be posted on the school system website. The health forms have been posted on the Back to School page at www.wcboe.org.

Bid and Contract Awards

Awarded reserved alternates 1, 4 and 5 on the Westside Primary vehicle access improvement project to contractor George & Lynch. These alternates include staff parking (lot 2), and site lighting in lots 1 and 2. The project already included the visitor parking lot (lot 1) and bus loop. The total contract value is $763,400. The improvements have been long needed for the safety of students, families, staff and bus drivers.

Awarded unit price contract for custodial equipment to several vendors who were the low responsive and responsible bidders on those items. In FY 2009-10, the school system spent about $55,000 on these items.

Authorized the use of a State of Maryland contract with Xerox Corp., care of Delmarva Documents Solutions, for the 60-month lease of a copier for the Central Office of Enrollment in Annex 4.

Awarded the contract for the removal and proper disposal of refuse and “co-mingled” recyclable materials from all WCPS sites to Waste Management of MD Inc. as the evaluated low responsive and responsible bidder.

Awarded the contract for HVAC replacement at Fruitland Intermediate School to Wilfre Co. as the low responsive and responsible bidder at $281,000.

Awarded the contract for back-up power in the Facilities Building to Carter Electrical Services Inc. as the evaluated low responsive and responsible bidder at $69,000. The school system will replace the outdated back-up system that provides back-up power for the data center housed in Facilities.

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
Monthly Meeting of Wicomico County Board of Education
Board of Education Auditorium

The September meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, in the Board of Education auditorium. The agenda will be posted at www.wcboe.org. 410-677-4561.

Tuesday, Sept. 13-Oct. 25
Care Seat Safety Checks
Berlin, Salisbury, Fruitland

Safe Kids Lower Shore Maryland will conduct free car seat safety checks throughout the Lower Shore from Sept. 13-Oct. 25. No appointment is needed. Call 410-334-3480 for information. Safety checks are scheduled as follows:

Walmart, Berlin, 1-3:30 p.m. Sept. 13
Sam’s Club, Salisbury, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 24
Walmart, Fruitland, 1-4 p.m. Oct. 4
Kmart, Salisbury, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 8
Lower Shore WIC Office, 801 N. Salisbury Blvd., 9-11 a.m. Oct. 25

Wednesday, Sept. 28
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Building

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen will hold a Superintendent’s Open Door Session from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, in the Administrative Conference Room of the Board of Education Building, Mt. Hermon Road and Long Avenue, Salisbury. Open Door Sessions provide the opportunity for people to meet one-on-one with the superintendent. People may express concerns, offer comment, or ask questions on any issue involving Wicomico schools. No appointment is needed. Additional Open Door Sessions for this school year will be held on Oct. 19, Nov. 16, Dec. 14, Jan. 18, Feb. 22, March 21, April 25 and May 23. 410-677-4495.

Thursday, Sept. 29
Mid-Term Progress Reports sent home (1st Marking Period ends Nov. 1)

Friday, Sept. 30
Professional Day
Schools closed for all students. Central Office open

Tuesday, Oct. 4
Annual Play 4 the Cure Game
Parkside High Field Hockey

The Parkside High School field hockey game vs. Stephen Decatur High School at 4 p.m. (Varsity and JV to follow immediately afterwards) Tuesday, Oct. 4 will be their annual Play 4 the Cure Game to support breast cancer research. Gate proceeds, concession sales, program sales, a portion of T-shirt sales and Play 4 the Cure bracelet sales will all be donated to the cause. The team will also be raffling off a homemade, crocheted pink scarf. The girls will be wearing pink – and lots of it. Please come out and show your support by wearing your pink as Parkside continues to Play 4 the Cure. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Wednesday, Oct. 12
PSAT/NMSQT Administration
For all Wicomico 10th graders, and 9th/11th graders who sign up to take it

Students in grades 9, 10 and 11 should mark their calendars now for Oct. 12 for the PSAT/NMSQT, an early measure of academic preparedness for college. In Wicomico County high schools, the PSAT/NMSQT will be administered on Wednesday, Oct. 12 for ALL students in grade 10. The school system will pay the exam cost for all 10th-graders as well as all ninth- and 11th-graders who sign up for the exam through the guidance office. The PSAT/NMSQT serves as an excellent preparation tool for the SAT, provides an evaluation of students’ academic skills, aids in college and career planning, and serves as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Corp. program, through which students can receive scholarships and recognition. Additional information is available in high school guidance offices or online at www.wcboe.org/boe/parents.php.

Saturday, Sept. 10
Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast
Benefitting the Parkside High Field Hockey Team

Support the Parkside High School Field Hockey Team at an all-you-can-eat Applebee’s Pancake Fund-raiser Breakfast from 8 -10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. Tickets are $6 per person for all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage and beverage (coffee, orange juice, soda and tea). The breakfast will be served at the North Salisbury Applebee’s by members of the 2011 Parkside Field Hockey Team. For tickets or information, please contact Coach Kimberly Pelot at 410-677-5143 or kpelot@wcboe.org.

Saturday, Sept. 10
Crab and Chicken Feast to Benefit Friends of Mardela Middle and High School
Hebron Fire Hall

The Friends of Mardela Middle and High School will host the annual Crab and Chicken Feast Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Hebron Fire Hall. Dinner will be from 5-7 p.m., loud and silent auction from 7-8 p.m., and DJ/dance from 8-10 p.m. Tickets only $30. BYOB and BYOCK – bring your own crab knife. For information and tickets, call 410-677-5142.

Monday, Sept. 5
Labor Day
Schools and Central Office Closed

Tuesday, Sept. 6
Registration for Evening High School Begins
Wicomico High School, Building E

Fall registration for Evening High School will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 6, in Building E of Wicomico High School. Evening High School is designed to help students 16 or older who are
enrolled in other Wicomico County high schools and who need to take classes to “stay on track” for graduation. It also serves anyone ages 16-20 who wishes to return to school to complete the requirements to earn a Maryland High School Diploma. Registration will take place from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13. Classes begin Sept. 14. To register, bring in a birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of residency (any utility bill or rent/mortgage statement), and the transcript from last school attended. Students already attending a Wicomico County high school during the day and wishing to attend Evening High School at night must bring to registration a blue form completed by the high school guidance counselor. 410-677-4537.

The schedule of 2011-12 games and matches at Wicomico County Stadium is now available online at:

http://www.wcboe.org/resources/documents/CountyStadiumSchedule.pdf

Thursday, Sept. 22
ESRC Dinner and Speaker
Adam’s Ribs, Fruitland

The Eastern Shore Reading Council (ESRC) fall dinner on Thursday, Sept. 22 will feature reading expert Jack Pikulski and a meal at Adam’s Ribs. The event begins at 5 p.m. at Adam’s Ribs with a meet and greet. The speaker, Jack Pikulski, is a former International Reading Association president and an expert in the field of reading. Starting at 5:30 p.m., he will speak on “Recent Approaches to Preventing and Correcting Reading Disabilities: Solutions or Passing Fads?” Dinner will be from 6:15-7:15 p.m. and will include roast beef, chicken, salad, garlic mashed potatoes, string beans; a vegetarian meal is available. Teachers, paraprofessionals, student interns and administrators are welcome. Cost is $20 for current 2011-12 ESRC members. Teachers and administrators pay $25 membership plus $20 for dinner, or $45, and paraprofessionals and student interns pay $12 for membership and $20 dinner, or $32. For more information on joining the ESRC or attending the fall dinner, please contact ESRC President Amanda Banks at abanks@wcboe.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 28
Superintendent’s Open Door Session
Board of Education Building

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen will hold a Superintendent’s Open Door Session from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, in the Administrative Conference Room of the Board of Education Building, Mt. Hermon Road and Long Avenue, Salisbury. Open Door Sessions provide the opportunity for people to meet one-on-one with the superintendent. People may express concerns, offer comment, or ask questions on any issue involving Wicomico schools. No appointment is needed. Additional Open Door Sessions for this school year will be held on Oct. 19, Nov. 16, Dec. 14, Jan. 18, Feb. 22, March 21, April 25 and May 23. 410-677-4495.

Thursday, Sept. 29
Mid-Term Progress Reports sent home (1st Marking Period ends Nov. 1)

Friday, Sept. 30
Professional Day
Schools closed for all students. Central Office open

Saturday, Oct. 1
First STEM Saturday of 2011-12
Salisbury Middle School

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Saturday classes will be offered throughout the 2011-12 school year for students in grades 4/5 and 6/7/8. The first STEM Saturday will be held Oct. 1 at Parkside High School from 10 a.m.-noon, with students in grades 4-5 exploring “Electricity & Magnetism” and middle schoolers working on “Is It Really Rocket Science?” Anyone interested in attending a STEM Saturday event must pre-register, and early registration is recommended as the courses fill up early. STEM Saturdays will also be held:

Nov. 12 at Salisbury Middle School: Coastal Creatures for elementary, Kitchen Chemistry for middle school
Jan. 14 at Salisbury Middle: Weird Weather for elementary, Alice 1: Programming with Alice/Creating Characters for middle school
Feb. 11 at Salisbury Middle: Bottle Biology for elementary, and Alice 2, a continuation for the middle school students who took the January Alice 1 programming class
March 10: Elementary students at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art for Project WET: Land & Water Connections, middle school students at Parkside High for A Garden to Dye For! With natural dyes and plant biology
April 14: Elementary students at the Salisbury Zoo for Habits & Habitats to explore animals and their habits and habitats, and middle school students at Salisbury Middle for Aviation & Flight Simulation to fly their own aircraft

STEM Saturdays are free for Wicomico County students in grades 4 through 8. For a detailed schedule and registration form, click on the STEM Saturday 2011-12 flier at http://www.wcboe.org/programs/stem/. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org.

A new, extended STEM experience has been added this year for students in grades 7 and 8. STEM Saturdays: Coastal Explorers Series will take place over four Saturdays starting in January. The first three sessions will take place from 9:30 a.m.-noon at Wicomico school locations, and the final session, in April, will be on a Marine Science Consortium research vessel. There is a $30 charge for the series; scholarships may be available.

Session 1: Wind, Waves, and Sand: The Basics of Barrier Islands, at Salisbury Middle
Session 2, Feb. 11: Mysteries of the Marsh, at Salisbury Middle. Explore the marvels of saltmarshes.
Session 3, March 10: Intertidal Investigations: Organisms and their intertidal homes, at Parkside High.
Session 4, April 14: Research Cruise, involving scientific research and equipment, on a vessel from the Marine Science Consortium in Wallops Island, Va. Participants will depart from Salisbury Middle for the Marine Science Consortium, departure and return times to be announced.

For a detailed schedule and registration form, click on Coastal Explorers at http://www.wcboe.org/programs/stem/. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 4
Annual Play 4 the Cure Game
Parkside High Field Hockey

The Parkside High School field hockey game vs. Stephen Decatur High School at 4 p.m. (Varsity and JV to follow immediately afterwards) Tuesday, Oct. 4 will be their annual Play 4 the Cure Game to support breast cancer research. Gate proceeds, concession sales, program sales, a portion of T-shirt sales and Play 4 the Cure bracelet sales will all be donated to the cause. The team will also be raffling off a homemade, crocheted pink scarf. The girls will be wearing pink – and lots of it. Please come out and show your support by wearing your pink as Parkside continues to Play 4 the Cure. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Wednesday, Oct. 12
PSAT/NMSQT Administration
For all Wicomico 10th graders, and 9th/11th graders who sign up to take it

Students in grades 9, 10 and 11 should mark their calendars now for Oct. 12 for the PSAT/NMSQT, an early measure of academic preparedness for college. In Wicomico County high schools, the PSAT/NMSQT will be administered on Wednesday, Oct. 12 for ALL students in grade 10. The school system will pay the exam cost for all 10th-graders as well as all ninth- and 11th-graders who sign up for the exam through the guidance office. The PSAT/NMSQT serves as an excellent preparation tool for the SAT, provides an evaluation of students’ academic skills, aids in college and career planning, and serves as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Corp. program, through which students can receive scholarships and recognition. Additional information is available in high school guidance offices or online at www.wcboe.org/boe/parents.php.

Saturday, Sept. 10
Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast
Benefitting the Parkside High Field Hockey Team

Support the Parkside High School Field Hockey Team at an all-you-can-eat Applebee’s Pancake Fund-raiser Breakfast from 8 -10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. Tickets are $6 per person for all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage and beverage (coffee, orange juice, soda and tea). The breakfast will be served at the North Salisbury Applebee’s by members of the 2011 Parkside Field Hockey Team. For tickets or information, please contact Coach Kimberly Pelot at 410-677-5143 or kpelot@wcboe.org.

Saturday, Sept. 10
Crab and Chicken Feast to Benefit Friends of Mardela Middle and High School
Hebron Fire Hall

The Friends of Mardela Middle and High School will host the annual Crab and Chicken Feast Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Hebron Fire Hall. Dinner will be from 5-7 p.m., loud and silent auction from 7-8 p.m., and DJ/dance from 8-10 p.m. Tickets only $30. BYOB and BYOCK – bring your own crab knife. For information and tickets, call 410-677-5142.

On Friday, Sept. 9, many Wicomico Schools will have activities to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, and the National Day of Service and Remembrance or Patriot Day.

At Bennett Middle School, Principal Liza Hastings will begin the school day (school starts at 7:45 a.m.) by sharing with students a brief summary of the events of 9/11. This will be followed by a moment of silence. The events of 9/11 will be commemorated in readings, video clips and discussion in classrooms throughout the day. While memories of 9/11 may be vivid for parents and even older students, middle school students were just 1 to 4 years old that day, and the anniversary of 9/11 presents a true learning opportunity.

At Wicomico High School, students in the JROTC program have prepared a ceremony leading up to 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane hit the first World Trade Center tower. At 8:30 a.m., the JROTC color team will be posted and ready in the breezeway, and the captain will review the ceremony with Principal Don Brady. At 8:40 a.m., the color guard will post at the base of the flagpole. At 8:43 a.m., the color guard will hand the principal a small basket of flowers, which he will place at the base of the flag to remain throughout the day. The color guard will present, then order arms. Staff members are encouraged to wear red, white and blue in recognition of the day.

Preparation for the observance of the 9/11 anniversary (also known as the National Day of Service and Remembrance, or Patriot Day, in memory of the 2,977 killed on 9/11) is already under way at North Salisbury Elementary. Fifth-grade Magnet students have been conducting research about 9/11, writing about it, and preparing an assembly for North Salisbury students for 9:30 a.m. Friday. This observance of the 9/11 anniversary, Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance will include a representative of the Salisbury Fire Department. The school will begin the presentation of a 9/11 Legacy Award, and students will finish the sentence starter “I will … “ by sharing how they will serve on Sept. 11, reinforcing the importance of peace and community service.

Fruitland Intermediate School fifth-graders have integrated reading and science in the study of the 9/11 survivor tree. The tree survived the destruction of the World Trade Center towers, has been nursed back to health over nine years to be replanted at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Students read an article about the tree in reading class, and, in an arts integrated science lesson, will create their own tree to capture in a construction paper and tissue paper mosaic the feelings of hope that surround the survivor tree.

At Beaver Run Elementary, students in Stacey Bennett’s modified self-contained classrooms will make flags, read a story about patriotism, and sing patriotic songs.

For 11:30 a.m. Friday, the Central Office social committee has organized a 9/11 tribute program which all Central Office staff are invited to attend in observance of 9/11 and the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Guests from the fire department, police and Community Foundation have volunteered their time to help with this ceremony remembering those who gave their lives on 9/11 and those who serve every day. A PowerPoint photo show will highlight staff members, family members and others who give service to the community and country. Lunch will be served for those who made a donation that will go to support military families in need. Each lunch ticket includes space for the donor to write a message of support to someone serving the country in the military. These messages will be sent to members of the military serving overseas.

On Monday, Sept. 12, Charles H. Chipman Elementary will observe Patriot Day and the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Diana Churchman’s second-grade class is learning about heroes, in relation to 9/11. They have been learning about emergency workers and the service they give every day, sports heroes, national heroes, unsung heroes and more. On Monday morning, four students will present a poem about American heroes during morning announcements, and they will read a brief statement about Patriot Day. The school will be invited to join in a moment of silence. Everyone is asked to wear red, white and blue on Monday in observance of the day, and a song called “I Will Always Remember” will be played over the intercom during breakfast.

Students in Wicomico County Public Schools will be served fresh, locally grown watermelon on Tuesday as part of the Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week focus on the importance of eating locally and eating healthily.

At Northwestern Elementary Tuesday, former Northwestern student and current Mar-Del Watermelon Association Queen Jordan Calloway will chat with students about the nutritional value of fresh watermelon and the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Her visit will take place during Northwestern's three lunch shifts, from 11:20 a.m.-1:20 p.m.

The Jane Lawton Farm to School Program, named in honor of the late Maryland House of Delegates member Jane Lawton of Montgomery County, was created during the 2008 Session of the Maryland General Assembly when SB 158 Farm-to-School Program - Activities and Promotional Events, sponsored by Senator Jamie Raskin of Montgomery County was signed into law by Gov. Martin O'Malley.

Sponsored by the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland State Department of Education, the Farm to School program works to bring more Maryland-grown products to school lunches with the aim of educating students about where their food comes from, how it is produced, and the benefits of a healthy diet. The watermelons that will be served in Wicomico Schools on Tuesday were grown in Mardela Springs.

In Maryland, more than 70 million lunches and 24 million breakfasts are served in our public school systems annually. What if just one local item was included in the school lunch of all the 950,000 Maryland public school students? Farmers would have additional income, thereby strengthening the local economy and keeping farm land open and productive. Our children would receive the nutritional benefits of fresh, local products as well as the knowledge of why this matters. The financial, environmental, and nutritional costs of transporting food would decrease. Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week is part of a broader effort to improve students' nutrition as well as their knowledge of local agriculture.

Students in several Wicomico County elementary schools are learning about early American history as the school year gets under way, in preparation for a visit next week to the Maryland Dove.

In 1633, the Dove was one of two ships (along with the Ark) that left England for the North American continent; it arrived in what would later be named Maryland in 1634, in a village that the Englishmen named St. Mary’s. After transporting goods up and down the East Coast for a year, the Dove returned to England and was lost at sea.

This replica was built in Cambridge, and will be docked in Salisbury for school tours Sept. 15 and 16. Free public tours will be offered Sept. 17 and 18 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

School tours are scheduled as follows:

Sept. 15:
9-9:45 a.m. Pemberton Elementary
10-10:45 a.m. Fruitland Intermediate
11-11:45 a.m. Westside Intermediate
12:15-1 p.m. Prince Street Elementary
1:15-2 p.m. East Salisbury Elementary

Sept. 16:
9-9:45 a.m. Pemberton Elementary
10-10:45 a.m. North Salisbury Magnet
11-11:45 a.m. Westside Intermediate
12:15-1 p.m. Northwestern Elementary
1:15-2 p.m. North Salisbury Elementary
2:15-3 p.m. Fruitland Intermediate

Parkside High School, Wicomico County Public Schools, and the community were deeply saddened tonight at the confirmation that Parkside High School English teacher and English Department chair Alice Davis is deceased. She was a sweet person and a truly dedicated teacher, one who taught the toughest high school English classes that are offered. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved her, and we wish peace and closure to her family.

On Tuesday, Parkside Principal Micah Stauffer will begin the day by meeting with all staff, and a moment of silence will be observed during the morning announcements. A crisis response team from the Central Office will continue to be available to support staff members and students as needed.

Thank you to the many people who searched for Mrs. Davis, who supported the investigation, and who hoped for news of her safe return over the past week. Our community has lost a wonderful teacher.

Wicomico County’s popular Family Portal -- for families with students in grades 3-12 -- has reopened for the 2011-12 school year. Family Portal is an online resource where parents and guardians can monitor their student’s grades, attendance and other information.

This year, for the first time, students will also be able to review their grades and other information through their own login at the Family Portal.

Family Portal supports the goals of the school system and the Wicomico County Board of Education to engage families and provide opportunities for communication. Providing timely information for parents, guardians and students about student performance serves the school system’s Bridge to Excellence Master Plan strategic priorities of High Student Achievement, Safe Learning Environment, and Effective & Efficient Operations.

For Parents/Guardians:

Login ID: student’s full last name (all lower case, special characters and spaces removed) + first initial of student first name + the last 4 digits of the student’s Social Security Number.
Password: Student’s 5-digit lunch number (available from your student, or call the school). This is temporary; the parent will choose a new password the first time they log on.
Example: Your student is John A. Smith-Jones with the social security number xxx-xx-1234. John’s lunch number is 98765. The login id will be smithjonesj1234 and the temporary password is 98765. As soon as you are logged in, you will be prompted to set a new password.

For Students:

Login ID: student’s full last name (all lower case, special characters and spaces removed) + first initial of student first name + the student’s 5 digit lunch number.
Password: Student’s 5-digit lunch number. This is temporary; the student will choose a new password the first time they log on.
Example: The student is John A. Smith-Jones with the lunch number 98765. The login id will be smithjonesj98765 and the temporary password is 98765.

How do I access the system?

You can use any computer that connects to the internet, allowing you to access the system from anywhere – your home and your office.

• Go to https://x2.wcboe.org/x2sis or go to www.wcboe.org and click on the Family Portal tab then click on the LOGIN icon. Also, in this location you will be able to download a PDF that contains helpful tips on navigating the system.

• Enter your Login ID and Password as detailed above. The first time you log in, you will be prompted to change your password. Your homepage will then display.

Many school web pages also have links to the Family Portal. Please check with your student’s school if you have any questions about using Family Portal or wish to discuss the information you find there about your student.