There are nearly 8,000 employees who support the students and families in our school system. They hold a variety of jobs and provide critical services to keep our organization running effectively and efficiently. Sometimes it is easy to take their work for granted, but recent data reminded me how fortunate we are to have each and every one of them!

Universal prekindergarten is one of the recommendations from the Kirwan Commission. There is much research to support the need for early childhood education. After visiting many prekindergarten classes in recent weeks, I offer a less scientific reason to support universal prekindergarten.

Reminding our students that being polite and respectful is important—FCPS celebrates the Civility Week Kindness Challenge from January 29-February 1st!

As our nation celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I encourage everyone to read some of his speeches and inspirational quotes. His messages are still relevant today.

There is plenty of research to support the value of student participation in extracurricular activities—from increased engagement to better academic achievement. FCPS offers a variety of opportunities for our students to explore interests through extracurricular programs. One exceptional example is the Model United Nations.

January is the month when we release the Superintendent’s Recommended Budget after many conversations and much deliberation; then the Board of Education begins its work by reviewing, discussing, and making more decisions.

As we prepare to welcome 2019, it is a good time to reflect on 2018.

The Maryland State Department of Education recently released the first series of report cards as part of the new accountability system required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Schools received a rating of 1 to 5 stars.

FCPS student athletes model so many positive qualities in their work both on and off the field. As we close out the fall season, let’s acknowledge our student athletes and their focus on character.

“The future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind--creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers and meaning makers. These people--artists, inventors, designers, storytellers, caregivers, consolers, big picture thinkers--will now reap society's richest rewards and share its greatest joys.” Daniel Pink