Thurmont Primary School News
December 2021, Volume 2
Principals' Message
Dear Families,
One year ago we were hosting "Candy Cane Lane." It was an opportunity for staff to connect safely in person with students and families while we were still in the midst of virtual learning. Excitement, cheer and joy filled our hearts and reminded us of what really matters.
Four months into our return to fully in person learning this year, we have not forgotten our purpose. We recognize the importance of building strong relationships and making sure each child is seen, heard, known and supported. We believe in one another and the magic that comes with being part of such a special school community. We look forward to growing and learning together in the New Year.
I wish you and your family a winter break filled with love and laughter!
Yours in education,
Michele Baisey
#BetterTogether
#CourageofaCougar
School Safety
On Friday, December 17, students may have noticed an increased police presence due to a nationwide TikTok threat of violence in schools.
Many families and students were concerned about this threat, which is understandable. But please know that we received considerable support from our partner agencies.
The safety of students and staff is our top priority every day. That’s a goal shared by local law enforcement as well.
It’s possible students may see/hear rumors about school violence on social media or hear about them from their peers. We always encourage our community if they see something to say something so threats can be properly investigated.
Here are a few other ways you can help us:
- Speak to your child about the seriousness of such actions.
- Remind them that they can be held financially or legally responsible for criminal actions.
- A School Resource Officer will be contacted if the behavior elevates to unlawful behavior.
- Keep note of your student's activity on social media.
We also encourage everyone to review the FCPS policy for student use of electronic devices.
Car Rider Reminders
As we prepare to enter the second half of our school year, please remember...
- students should exit/enter the car from the passenger side by the sidewalk
- staff are available to assist with getting in/out of the car as needed
Please park in our lot and meet your child at the car rider door if need to assist with:
- getting out of/into a car seat
- exiting/loading from the driver's side of the vehicle
When car rider lines are long, please do not block driveways on Rocky Ridge Road.
We appreciate your cooperation to ensure student safety and a smooth traffic flow during arrival and dismissal.
TEPS PTA Winter Family Event
Enjoy...
- crafts
- hot chocolate
- photo booth
- science experiment
Please bring a canned food donation to benefit the Thurmont Food Bank.
TEPS PTA Winter Family Event Flyer (linked here)
ELA December News
Writing is a great way for children to express their thoughts and creativity. Writing is also a fundamental way in which children learn to organize their ideas. Learning to write also helps children to be better readers.
When students are engaged in writing, they often mirror what they see around them: adults and older children writing lists, letters, text messaging. You may find your child(ren) wanting to make lists like you do. They are observing the way writing is used in our everyday lives.
At Home Writing Tips:
- Provide a place for your child to write.
- READ, READ, READ! Best way to improve writing is to read.
- Encourage your child to keep a daily journal.
- Keep a dialogue journal between you and your child. You write a note to your child and then he or she writes a response back to you. You could keep this going for a long time.
- Provide authentic writing opportunities (letter writing, making a list, finding a pen pal)
- Write a letter or thank you note to a relative. Talk through what your child wants to say before writing begins.
- Make a shopping list with your child before going to the grocery store.
- Have your child write instructions on how to take care of or feed your pet.
- Be a writing role model. Let your child see you writing.
- Point out ways you communicate through writing.
- Ask questions when your child writes. Questions could include: "How did that happen?" "How did that make you feel?" "Can you tell me more about that...?"
Bus Status Information
Please visit https://apps.fcps.org/transportation/status for updated information about bus status. The page is updated every 60 seconds in real time so will have the most accurate information.
Thanks for your continued patience as we work through all aspects of returning to fully in person learning environment while navigating a global pandemic. It may not be easy but it's worth it!
Money for Snacks & Ice Cream
In order to help move students through the lunch line quickly, we ask that...
- any money being sent in is labeled with the FULL student name and "lunch account"
- money is secured inside a sealed envelope or bag
Online payments can be made to your child's lunch account. Please visit: https://www.fcpsnutrition.com/index.php?sid=1496937421390&page=prepaidacct for directions.
We appreciate your help in efficiently helping students go through the lunch line each day!
Important Dates
- Thursday, December 23rd - Friday, December 31st - Schools Closed for Winter Break
- Monday, January 3rd - Schools Reopen
- Thursday, January 13th - TEPS PTA Winter Family Event at TPS from 6-7:30pm
- Friday, January 14th - Schools Closed for Students - Teacher Work Day
- Monday, January 17th - Schools Closed for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Contact Information
Email: michele.baisey@fcps.org
Website: https://education.fcps.org/tps/
Location: 7989 Rocky Ridge Road, Thurmont, MD, USA
Phone: 240-236-2800
Twitter: @ThurmontPrimary