Welcome to the latest updates for our Online Learning Programs (OLP), designed to keep you informed and engaged in your learner’s educational journey. This February, we have important information regarding MAP testing, yearbook contributions, attendance procedures, virtual classroom etiquette, parent-teacher conferences, and opportunities to participate in shaping educational standards. We encourage all parents, guardians, and students to review these updates carefully to ensure a successful and productive learning experience within our online environment.
Middle School MAP Testing Resumes
We are pleased to announce that Middle School Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) testing has resumed as of Friday, February 14th, following a brief pause. We understand the importance of these assessments in tracking student progress and tailoring instruction. The testing window has been extended to February 21st to accommodate the adjusted schedule. Please confirm the specific testing schedule with your learner’s home school to ensure they are prepared and present on their designated testing days.
Winter MAP Assessment Details
The Winter MAP assessment window is open from January 27th to February 21st. The following students are included in this assessment cycle:
- Math: All diploma-bound students in Grades 2-8 will participate in the Math MAP assessment.
- Reading: All diploma-bound students in Grades 2-9, as well as all Read 180 students in Grades 10-12, will participate in the Reading MAP assessment.
We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring your learners complete these important assessments within the extended window.
Contribute to the OLP Digital Yearbook
Capture the memories of this academic year by contributing to the OLP Yearbook! Our yearbook classes are actively seeking photos from students to create a comprehensive and engaging digital yearbook. We encourage students to submit both formal portrait school photos and candid snapshots that reflect their experiences within our online learning programs. Please refer to the form linked in your email to upload your photos and help us create a lasting memento of the school year. Separate upload links are available for middle school and high school submissions to streamline the process.
Student Absence Notes: A Reminder for Parents
Timely communication regarding student absences is crucial for maintaining accurate records. When your student is absent due to illness or other reasons, we kindly request parents and guardians to submit an absence note. You can conveniently upload notes directly into the FOCUS portal. Alternatively, notes can be sent to teachers, school counselors, or our administrative secretary, Ms. Brown. For those uploading notes via the FOCUS portal, please notify the school so that the absence note can be promptly approved within the system. This ensures all absences are properly documented and helps us support your student’s academic progress.
Optimizing Engagement: Camera Usage in Online Classes
In our online learning programs, fostering a sense of community and engagement is paramount. We remind all OLP students that turning on cameras during instruction, or when requested by their classroom teacher, is an important aspect of participation. Camera usage plays a vital role in helping students build meaningful relationships with their peers and teachers. In the virtual classroom, intentional efforts to connect are essential for maximizing the learning experience. By enabling cameras, students contribute to a more interactive and collaborative learning environment, enhancing their overall educational journey within our online learning programs.
Parent-Teacher Conference Opportunities in February
Strengthening the home-school connection is a priority in our online learning programs. We want to remind you of the ongoing opportunities for parent-teacher conferences throughout February. While teachers were available for conferences on Wednesday, January 29th, we encourage those who missed the opportunity to schedule a meeting with your learner’s teacher during February. Teachers will be sharing conference sign-up links to facilitate scheduling. If you have not yet received a link, please reach out to your student’s teacher directly to arrange a convenient time to connect and discuss your learner’s progress and any support they may need. These conferences are invaluable for collaborative planning and ensuring student success in our online learning environment.
Public Comment Invited on Maryland Social Studies Standards
Participate in shaping the future of education in Maryland! The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is currently seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the state’s social studies standards and frameworks. The Standards and Frameworks Validation Committee (SFVC) has completed a comprehensive review and developed proposed revisions that are now open for a 30-day public comment period, running from Monday, February 3, 2025, through Tuesday, March 4, 2025. This is a significant opportunity for parents, teachers, administrators, students, and community stakeholders to provide valuable feedback on the proposed changes. Your input will help ensure that the Maryland social studies curriculum effectively prepares students for engaged citizenship and a comprehensive understanding of the world. To submit your comments, please use the official MD Social Studies SFVC Proposed Revisions Public Comment Form available through the provided link. Your voice matters in shaping the educational landscape!
MD Social Studies SFVC Proposed Revisions Public Comment Form
