About 185 paraeducators new to MCPS participated in an all-day orientation on Oct. 17 at Richard Montgomery High School.
The group was welcomed to MCPS by Superintendent Joshua Starr, then participated in informational breakout sessions that explored topics such as: exploring the paraeducator–student relationship; behavior management strategies; strategies for building a content-accessible classroom, and understanding the special needs program in MCPS. During a lunch break, the new employees picked up information from SEIU Local 500, the credit union, insurance companies, and other human resources departments.
This is the ninth year for a paraeducator orientation. The event is held in October because most paraeducators are typically hired in September or October.
Teacher Publishes Article in Academic Journal
Meghan Zanskas, an arts resource teacher at Robert Frost Middle School, e-published an article in Teaching Artist Journal last month. Read the article here.
Shout Outs
Congratulations to Edgar Ayala, building services manager, at Carl Sandburg Learning Center for having perfect attendance for the 2013–2014 school year. We are very proud of your achievement!
Marlene Kenny, principal, Carl Sandburg Learning Center
Our building shines, and I would like to thank David Love and his staff for making Gaithersburg Middle a wonderful place to come to each morning!
Bryna Selig, teacher, Gaithersburg Middle School
A shout out to Chris Fernatt, fifth grade teacher, for his awesome school spirit displayed for a worthy cause—hot pink sequin hat, blazer and glasses! #Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
Sundra Mann, assistant principal, Forest Knolls Elementary School
Thank you, Norca Yarborough, for everything you do for our ESOL and METS students. They need supportive adults in their corner, and you are there! We are very grateful.
Katia Bore Falecker, ESOL teacher, Montgomery Village Middle School
Big thank you to IT systems specialists Gary Kelley, Jason Garel and Denny Wisner for prompt and responsive technology support. To Karen Hopper and Carla Evans in the office, thanks for your cheerful assistance!
Michelle Goldstein, coordinator, Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers, East County Center
In Memoriam
Robert A. Fagan, Jr., a glazier at the Randolph Maintenance Depot, died on Oct. 19. He had worked for MCPS for more than 17 years.
Lesley N. Levy, instructional data analyst and Focus paraeducator at Stedwick Elementary School, died on Sept. 25. She had been with MCPS for more than eight years.
