Montgomery County Public Schools

Motivational storyteller Bill Grimmette transforms himself into Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in front of students’ eyes at Spark M. Matsunaga Elementary School. The physical transformation, along with stories about the civil rights leader, brought Dr. King to life for students. The school system, along with the nation, celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr., Day Jan. 19.

Families of students receiving special education services can find support, resources, and information by contacting the Department of Family and Community Partnerships (DFCP). Bilingual staff are available to help parents understand the special education process and strengthen their advocacy skills. DFCP also provides free workshops for parents on special education topics through the Parent Academy.

Brooke Grove ES is the latest school to unveil a new website produced using the Tron web publishing system. Tron simplifies web publishing, saving school webmasters time and enabling them to focus on updating content. The result? More informative school websites for families. More than 50 schools use the system, which also reduces software, training, and support costs. Web Services brings more schools into Tron each month.

If you have a question about the school system, don’t hesitate to ask.

• Call the ASK MCPS telephone center at 301-309-MCPS (6277)
• Send an email to
• Stop by the Department of Family and Community Partnerships (DFCP) at 451 Hungerford Dr., Rockville
• Also look for ASK MCPS events throughout the year held at DFCP and in neighborhood locations.

The Board of Education’s first public hearing on the FY 2010 Operating Budget will be webcast live starting at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14. The hearing also will be broadcast live on Comcast Channel 34. The hearing is an opportunity for parents, students, staff, and community members to share their thoughts on the superintendent’s operating budget recommendations.  The second and final hearing will be held Jan. 21.

The Board of Education's business meeting will be webcast live starting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, January 13. You need the free Windows MediaPlayer on your computer to view the meeting.

Parents are invited to attend college orientation programs that will focus on college readiness and financial preparation. Representatives from MCPS School Counseling Services, Morgan State University, Montgomery College and the College Savings Plans of Maryland will be available to provide information and answer questions. The next session is coming up Jan. 13 at Silver Spring International Middle School from 7–8:30 p.m.

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High school art students got advice on their portfolios and information about applying to art schools at the seventh annual Art School Forum held at Walt Whitman High School. Representatives from more than 20 colleges, universities and art programs were on hand to meet with students and offer their critiques of students’ work.