Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity to honor and celebrate the diverse cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic communities. From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, MCPS schools are embracing this rich heritage by spotlighting the achievements and traditions of students, educators and staff members who trace their roots to Spanish-speaking countries in North and South America, the Caribbean and around the world.

With more than 34 percent of MCPS students identifying as Hispanic or of Hispanic descent, this month serves as a meaningful reminder of the vibrant cultures within our schools. It's a time to recognize and appreciate the unique perspectives and contributions of Hispanic individuals in our community. During this month, schools might highlight influential figures, host cultural events and share stories that reflect the heritage and experiences of Hispanic students and staff.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month not only enriches our understanding and appreciation of different cultures, but also fosters a sense of inclusion and community within our educational environment. 

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage—Staff Spotlight: Edgar Perez

Registration Now Open for Saturday School

Registration for the George B. Thomas Sr. Learning Academy, Inc., also known as Saturday School, is open for the 2024–2025 school year. Saturday School provides K–12 academic support programs in math and English/Language Arts.

The mentoring and tutoring program in Montgomery County will begin classes on Sept. 28 in nine locations, and also will provide a virtual option. The curriculum is aligned with MCPS and is taught by certified teachers. The locations are: Montgomery Blair, Albert Einstein, Paint Branch, Springbrook, Wheaton, Gaithersburg, Clarksburg, Rockville and Northwest high schools. The annual cost is $85; $40 for families eligible for Free and Reduced-price Meals (FARMs).

Registration for Saturday School, Grades 1–12 is here (English) and here (en Español). Kindergarten registration is here (English) and here (en Español). For an additional cost of $150 for a five-week session, Saturday School also offers classes in Coding and Robotics (English) and here (en Español).

Call 301-287-8980 for general information.

Dual-Enrollment Programs Holding Information Nights

Students have called MCPS’ dual-enrollment program a “great head start.” Parents say it helped them save enough money that their students received the first two years of a four-year degree free, while their students were still enrolled in high school.

“They learn time management, high expectations, how to read a syllabus and understand course requirements—all on their own,” one parent said about the program.

The dual-enrollment program is holding information sessions this month and in October. These programs allow high school students the opportunity to take select college courses at no cost. More information about dual-enrollment can be found on its webpage and a list of the information sessions is available here.

Apply Now for Student-Refurbished Computer Lab

The Montgomery County Students Information Technology Foundation (ITF), Inc. will donate a computer lab to one county nonprofit organization. The computer lab will include six reconditioned desktop computers with operating systems, flat-panel LCD monitors, keyboards, mice and one printer. Montgomery County 501©(3) organizations must submit an application to be considered for the computer lab, and agree to attend the gifting ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 21 at Clarksburg High School.

Applications are due Friday, Oct. 4, and can be submitted by email, faxed to 240-740-5205 or mailed to 12501 Dalewood Drive, Room 109B, Silver Spring, MD, 20906. For questions, contact Kelly Johnson.

2024 Computer Gifting Application

Board of Elections Seeking Students for Help at the Polls

The Montgomery County Board of Elections is looking for student election aides and ambassadors to help at the polls on election days. Students can be paid or earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours, depending on their age and the position.

For students aged 16 and older: These volunteers can receive a minimum of up to $250 or 25 SSL hours for each full day of service. To apply, visit this website and follow the directions under “New Applicants.”

High School Election Worker
Position Description and Stipend/SSL Information

For students 15 years old and younger: These students can be Future Vote Ambassadors, and can also earn SSL hours. Training is required for both students and their parents/guardians. Details and volunteer expectations are provided at the training.

Future Vote FAQs

Future Vote Registration Instructions

Community Events Coming Up

Two free youth block parties are set for Friday, Sept. 27, an early release day for all students. Montgomery County Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe is hosting the “Back-to-School Block Party” for middle and high school students from 1–4 p.m. at the BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown. The event will feature a soccer clinic, arts activities, student performances and an opportunity to earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours. More information

Council Vice President Kate Stewart is hosting “Buckets & Beats: Silver Spring Youth Block Party” at 1 Veterans Place in downtown Silver Spring with a variety of activities for youth from 2–6 p.m. This event will include a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a pop-up skatepark, arts activities and a DJ. More information