1. Coming Soon: MCPS to Launch a Bus Tracking App

MCPS will be launching a self-service bus app for families this semester. The tracking app will allow users to receive live updates on where their student’s bus is, provide important two-way communication capability and enhance safety for students while they wait for and ride the bus.

The MCPS Department of Transportation is currently in a pilot phase with families and students at 10 schools. More information will be shared in the coming weeks as we prepare for the full launch across the district.

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2. Winter 2024 Parent Academy TO GO Workshops Now Available 

Take advantage of virtual Parent Academy sessions this winter to stay informed and empowered as a partner and advocate for your student’s education. Parent Academy TO GO  workshops provide families with useful information and resources to support their children's academic and emotional well-being, as well as help them to be college and career ready. 

Upcoming sessions and topics this month:

Managing Morning Mayhem and Bedtime Battles

Jan. 17, 6-7 p.m.

Online Safety Tips for Kids and Teens

Jan. 24, 6-7 p.m.

Visit the parent academy website for a full schedule and to register.

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3. Upcoming Events, Reminders and Resources

• Jan. 23 Screening and Panel to Address Mental Health in the Asian American Community 

On Jan. 23, MCPS, in partnership with the Asian American Health Initiative and the Montgomery County Government, will have a screening of the documentary film, “Silent War: Asian American Reckonings with Mental Health,” followed by reflection from one of the individuals in the film and a moderated panel discussion. Read more.

• Two Out-of-School Time Activities to be Held Jan. 29 

Looking for something for your student to do when school is out? MCPS is offering two Out-of-School Time events on Monday, Jan. 29. 

Students in Grades 8-12 are invited to spend Monday, Jan. 29 at a free STEAM fair. 

Transportation, snacks and prizes will be provided. Be sure to register by the January 16 deadline. 

MCPS, in partnership with the NAACP Parents’ Council and Johns Hopkins University, will also host a Junior Day college event for rising minority seniors to learn about scholarships, financial aid, interviews and more. Buses, breakfast and lunch will be provided. Read more. 

Register. 

• WATCH: Learn How Parent Community Coordinators (PCCs) Can Help You

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4. Learn More About the ESSER Fund and Its Impact on the MCPS Operating Budget

The Elementary and Secondary School Relief Fund (ESSER) are federal funds provided to support schools through the pandemic recovery. Those funds are now going away, but many of the needs they supported remain. Hear from the MCPS Office of Finance about how the District is adjusting. 

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5. MCPS News This Week 

Students Earn Millions in Scholarships Ahead of the Annual HBCU Fair 

More than 300 students have participated in close to 500 interviews for on-the-spot admissions opportunities held thus far this year. Students have earned 460 scholarships, totaling nearly $3 million dollars.   

The 16th Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Fair will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 16. Visit the fair website to learn more about what is in store for this year’s fair. 

MCPS In The News

16 estudiantes del condado Montgomery ganan becas universitarias

Montgomery Co. schools encourage more students to opt for dual enrollment

A Variety of Art, Writing, Video Contests Are Currently Open to Students

The therapist will see you now — just bring treats