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Family Link November 2023
November 2023
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November is National Family Engagement Month
Parents and caregivers play an important role in education by supporting their children's success. Every month, in this Family Link newsletter, we include a Family Engagement Tip of the Month. Here are some highlights from the last year to help you support your children at home and at school.
- Serve healthy meals to improve brain function.
- Create a rich learning environment at home through games, music, reading, and conversation.
- Ensure regular school attendance.
- Volunteer for school activities.
- Talk with teachers for clarification and understanding.
- Ask open-ended questions about their day.
- Support your child's mental health by encouraging open communication.
Thank you for all you do to help your child be successful! We appreciate you!
National Apprencticeship Week: November 13-19
Apprenticeships are instrumental in re-building our economy, advancing racial and gender equity, building a pipeline to good quality jobs, and supporting underserved communities.
~Apprenticeship USA
Read more about Career & Technical Education at AACPS.
Join our AACPS Event to learn more!
Apprenticeship: Pathway to Prosperity
Tuesday, November 14, 6-8 pm
2644 Riva Rd, Annapolis, MD
Strategic Plan
As the first formal step toward drafting a five-year plan that is reflective of the community, Anne Arundel County Public Schools invites all members of the community to participate in a survey.
Facilitated by Insight Education Group, the survey and strategic plan development process will capture various perspectives from students, staff, families, organizations, businesses, and other partners to coordinate a comprehensive plan that promotes the best outcomes for students.
The survey can be accessed at www.aacps.org/strategicplansurvey and feedback will be accepted through noon on Sunday, November 5, 2023.
Dates to Remember
November 1
Closed for ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE only
Professional Development
November 20 & 21
Schools Closed for Students
Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 22-24
Schools & Offices Closed
Thanksgiving Holiday
Magnet Information Sessions
Magnet Applications Due
All Magnet applications are due by November 13. Please see the information above and visit aacps.org/magnet for more information.
Family Engagement Tip of the Month
Handling the Stress of School
National Stress Awareness Day is the first Wednesday of November, which is November 1 this year. School is our children’s work and we know that even when we enjoy it, work and school can be stressful. Stress can be both good and bad, so it’s important to help children learn to regulate it.
How can you help your child deal with school stress?
Provide downtime - Our kids are busy with school and outside activities, but they also need time to relax and be a kid. Even if you have to schedule it in, try to find time each day for your child to have self-directed time.
Create family time - Spend time together as a family, whether for a meal, going for a walk, playing a board game, or just chatting about the day. Time together with people who show love and support creates a foundation for kids to be successful.
Show support - Show an active interest in what they are learning in school or after-school activities. It’s not just about the A paper or the soccer goal; support the work they do to get there.
Set an appropriate bedtime - It seems so simple, but we know how difficult it can be to get a full night’s sleep. Be sure your kids are getting enough sleep by setting an appropriate bedtime.
Talk with teachers and school staff - If you see your child has a lot of stress about school, talk to their teachers and school counselor to learn more about the school day and how you can best support them.
Family Academy
AVID: Advancement via Individual Determination
AVID is an academic, elective program designed to provide support to students who are in the “academic middle." AVID prepares students to enter and be successful in college through career and college exploration. Detailed is an overview of the program, including student testimonials and information on how to apply. For more information, visit the AVID Office.
Find more videos on Family Academy: Academics & Programs,
Wellbeing & Growth, and Navigating AACPS
International Families
Center of Help / Centro de Ayuda
For over 20 years, the Center of Help has served as a vital resource for immigrant families in Anne Arundel County. From Citizenship and English classes to family programs, they provide educational opportunities and extend a welcoming hand to neighbors. They are a one-stop resource center that assists immigrants to overcome challenges, navigate systems, and achieve self-sufficiency to break cycles of poverty.
- Case Navigation - Guides clients in navigating the systems of care throughout the county.
- Adult Academy - Classes include English as a second language, citizenship preparation, and computer literacy.
- Youth Academy - Offering two programs for children, from conflict resolution, to tutoring and school help, to after-school activities and leadership topics.
Discover programs, events, and resources for all ages in the Fall edition of Library Happenings.
STEM Festival
The STEM Festival wraps up in November with STEM-related programs and events throughout the county. Find an event near you!
Club 1117 for Teens
From Teen Spaces, Events, Social Media, and Book Reviews, there's something for every Teen at AACPL! Check out all the Teen Events.
Creativebug
Enjoy unlimited access to thousands of online art and craft classes. Watch classes anytime, anywhere. You can start and stop projects at your own pace.
Anne Arundel County Recreation & Parks is seeking your input to better serve you! The Plan Your Park campaign evaluates ten park sites for possible development of park and recreation uses, facilities, and amenities.
Review concepts and share feedback at aarecparks.org/PlanYourPark.
(Campaign deadline 11/30/23).
As always, check out all the sports, concerts, classes, programs, and special events happening around the county in the Fall Program Guide.
Ice Skating at Quiet Waters Park
Rinks open Mid-November
Come out for fun with family and friends. We have skates, helmets, and we sharpen skates on-site. Park admission fees apply except when otherwise noted. Days and hours may vary due to the weather conditions.
School Break Fun Days
Bring your kids to the Aquatic Center for a full day of fun activities including swimming, arts and crafts and games. Ages 6 to 12.
7:30am-5:30pm, $60
November 1, 20, & 21
National Take a Hike Day
Friday, November 17
In celebration of National Take a Hike Day, spend some time exploring an unfamiliar trail by taking a guided hike with a Park Ranger or a Volunteer Naturalist. Enjoy the changing of the seasons, appreciate the Fall foliage, and discover area wildlife.
Register for hikes at aarecparks.org/registration
BWMC Programs
The University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center provides resources and learning opportunities all year!
Click on the Event title to see a flyer with more information:
- Car Seat Safety Checks - Second Thursday of the Month
- Exercise Classes - Free Yoga and Zumba classes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Nest and Nurture - A prenatal program to promote healthy pregnancies and healthy beginnings.
- Produce Markets - Community markets every other Wednesday
Volunteers
Volunteer of the Month
October 2023 Volunteer of the Month
Mary Ellen Walker, Lake Shore Elementary School
"Mrs. Walker shines a light on the school through her volunteer work with 4th & 5th graders, picture days, and PBIS help."
Become a Volunteer
Volunteers are an important part of the AACPS school community. By offering your time and talent, you enrich the education of our students, support our staff, and serve families in our community.