The Board of Education met yesterday [Tuesday, November 14] and, among other items, approved the school calendar for 2001-02 and an administrative appointment. The Board also discussed secondary curricula and middle school education. In addition, the Board reviewed an update on the Thornton Commission on Education Finance, Equity and Excellence. The Board commended the school system's observance of Veterans' Day and approved the observance of American Education Week in Montgomery County Public Schools.

Update on Thornton Commission Interim Report

The Board discussed key issues in recommendations set forth in the draft interim report of the state Thornton Commission on Education Finance, Equity, and Excellence. Following a series of public hearings, the Commission will finalize the interim report and submit it to the Governor and General Assembly by December 15, 2000.

Secondary Curricula

Current MCPS curricula in secondary school English/language arts, science, foreign language, and social studies, and recent reviews and revisions of these curricula were discussed.

Appointment

The Board approved the following administrative appointment:

Lola K. Crawford, currently instructional specialist, Division of Accelerated and Enriched Instruction, Office of Instruction and Program Development, as community partnership specialist, Department of Family and Community Partnerships, Office of Community and Student Services.

Middle School Education

The Board reviewed a comprehensive plan to ensure rigor and challenge for all middle grade students. The fully-implemented plan would provide middle schools with the materials, training, curricula and support needed to ensure a consistent instructional program designed to increase achievement of all students.

2001-2002 School Calendar

The Board approved the school calendar for 2001-2002, including 184 instructional days and a contingency plan for identifying days that will be used to make up lost instructional time due to emergency closings. The first day of school for pupils will be Tuesday, September 4, 2001. The final day of school for pupils will be Wednesday, June 19, 2002.

American Education Week

The observance of American Education Week from November 13 through 17 with its theme of "Children-Schools-Parents: Helping Students Achieve" was recognized. The Board especially encouraged parent and community involvement during this week to enhance the academic and personal success of all students.

Veterans' Day

The Board commended students, parents, staff, and the entire community for honoring and celebrating the contributions of veterans.