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Family Link December 2023
December 2023
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Maryland State Teacher of the Year
Mary Kay Connerton is a physical educator and wellness coordinator at Annapolis High School, where she is a fierce advocate for student, staff, and community wellness. Currently, at AHS, she teaches 9th-12th graders, and staff wellness techniques for the classroom, which provides them tools for lifelong wellness practices. Mrs. Connerton is a believer in addressing the whole child and that the foundation of success begins with being healthy in body and mind.
Mrs. Connerton created AACPS' first yoga course in response to students’ needs at AHS. The course morphed into a holistic Wellness Program that she created, which assists the school community with living healthfully–leading to a Wellness School of Distinction Award. This course, and two subsequent courses, are now offered at every high school in AACPS with Mrs. Connerton leading the teaching training program for teachers.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Connerton co-leads the Trauma Team, Wellness Club, and Trauma Informed Wellness Groups, which focus on healing and connection. She facilitates events to connect employees and the community with these resources. In addition, she pioneered AACPS’ first Social Emotional Learning/Wellness curriculum for 25,000 students with Johns Hopkins University and is currently co-authoring with them.
We are proud of Mary Kay Connerton, the work she does with our students and staff, and thrilled for her to represent Anne Arundel County Public Schools and the State of Maryland as Teacher of the Year.
Dates to Remember
December 5
2-Hour Early Dismissal
Professional Development
December 5
Unity Day
Wear orange and show support against bullying.
December 25-Jan 1
Schools & Offices Closed
Winter Break
Family Engagement Tip of the Month
Reading & Your Child
We have all heard our teachers tell us to read at home, but why is it so important, and how do we fit it into our busy schedules, both as children and adults?
What are some of the benefits of reading regularly?
Practice makes progress - We know the more we work on a skill, the better we get. The same is true for reading. The more we read, the better we read, which enhances our learning in all subjects.
Expands Vocabulary - We learn new words by reading and listening. As children read, they grow their vocabulary, both on specific topics and in general.
Strengthens Thinking Skills - When we read, our brain makes connections and predictions, and uses prior knowledge to understand concepts.
How can I help my child read more?
Set an alarm - Set your home voice assistant to announce, “It’s Reading Time” at a certain time every night. That reminder can be just the spark we need to drop what we’re doing and spend a little time reading. Use an alarm if you don’t have a home voice assistant.
Read when you're a passenger - We are always on the road, so have a book or magazine ready for your child in the car. You can also read the road signs!
Find what they enjoy - All reading is beneficial, so choose what they enjoy - novels, picture books, comics, magazines, nonfiction, or even the back of the cereal box!
Listen - Audiobooks are also reading! Listen while you drive to activities, or read along with an audiobook.
Family Academy
PowerSchool Attendance Form
AACPS's attendance policy requires parents to complete and submit an attendance note in PowerSchool for absences and early dismissals. Learn how to access and complete the form online via the PowerSchool Parent Portal or in the PowerSchool Mobile app. Read more about the PowerSchool Parent Portal and AACPS attendance policies on our website.
Find more videos on Family Academy: Academics & Programs,
Wellbeing & Growth, and Navigating AACPS
Virtual Support, Homework Help, and Tutoring
Middle & High Schoolers
Virtual Homework Help & Tutoring in:
- Core Subjects: Math, English, Science, Social Studies
- World Languages
- AVID
- ESOL
Find the schedule and how to log in at aacps.org/tutoring.
Elementary Math
Virtual Family Support:
- Drop-in for assistance with understanding K-5th grade Math concepts.
- Provides assistance to students and the adults helping them.
Find the schedule and Google Meet link at aacps.org/tutoring.
International Families
Watch us on AACPS-TV and AACPS YouTube
Enjoy these three programs especially produced for our International Families!
Global Perspectives
An exploration and celebration of cultural diversity and connections through conversations with a diverse group of AACPS staff and community members on topics both local and global.
Nuestra Comunidad
Our Community
Information for Spanish-speaking viewers about current and upcoming school system and community events happening in and around Anne Arundel County.
Charla Educativa
Educational Chat
Events, school programs, and community resources of importance to the Hispanic community.
Discover programs, events, and resources for all ages in the Winter edition of Library Happenings.
Looking for something to do with the kids over winter break?
- Super Mario Escape Room
- Lego Challenge
- Pokemon Card Swap
- D20 Gamers Club
- Gingerbread Man STEM
- Art Programs
- Paint & Trivia Nights
- Sewing Rounds
- and Noon Year's Eve Parties!
Genealogy
Are your kids interested in their genealogy and ancestry? Take advantage of the genealogy resources at the library.
eBooks & eAudiobooks
Browse and check out right from your device.
Find an eBook or eAudiobook you love!
Learn a Language
December is Learning Language Month!
Find all the sports, concerts, classes, programs, and special events happening around the county in the Winter Program Guide.
Winter Break Activities:
- Ice Skating at Quiet Waters Park or Glen Burnie Town Center
- School Break Fun Days at North Arundel Aquatic Center
- Coffee with a Ranger
Gym Attendants & Scorekeepers
Recreation and Parks is hiring for gym attendants and scorekeepers Dec 2 - March. Applicants must be able to work on Saturdays from 8:15am - as late as 7:30pm.
Minimum age: 16 for scorekeepers and 21 for gym attendants.
Drop N Shop
Games, crafts, swimming, and movies. Bring a swimsuit & towel.
Ages 6 to 12, Arundel Olympic Swim Center
11:45AM - 3:45PM: December 2nd & 3rd
Registration Required - $28
Lifeguarding Course
Successful completion rewards a 2-year Red Cross Certification in Lifeguarding, CPR, First Aid, and AED. Ages 15+
December 12-17
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
The Health Department has many programs, services, and resources to keep you and your family in good physical and mental health.
View all of their services to find programs for you and your family!
Free Walk-in Flu Vaccination Clinics
Find a free Flu Vaccination Clinic near you to help protect against sickness this season.
Holiday Food Safety
Cooking and storing food this season? Learn about safe shopping, storage, and preparation.
Quit Smoking & Vaping
Gift yourself and your loved-ones the gift of a healthy you! Find resources for quitting smoking and vaping.
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
November 2023 Volunteer of the Month
Tony Caparosa, Edgewater Elementary School
"Tony Caparosa is not just a volunteer; he is a cherished member of the Edgewater Elementary family. His dedication spans many years, and he has consistently demonstrated his willingness to help whenever and wherever needed."
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.