OM CommUnity,
We are OM...We are strongest together! Take some time, especially now, and think about the meaning of our vision. We are a community that takes care of one another. That's what gives me the most pride about OM and being part of the OM community. OM is my family...each of you are part of that family.
We recognize that there has been some anxiety around exams, grades, celebrations, graduation, AP exams, and SATs, as well as being concerned about childcare or fear for family and friends who work in healthcare. Others are sad or concerned about being away from school for an extended period of time. Again, we are a commUnity, and are in this together. I am so grateful to all of our students, staff, and families for your flexibility and patience.
When we return we will keep moving forward together! As well, during this time I will be available. If you need something, send me an email, I will be checking constantly. Please reach out to me if you need anything...I will continue to be here through this…and for you!
Thank you!
Dr. Jeffrey Fink, Principal
Closing Dates
All school buildings will be closed beginning at 6 p.m., Friday, March 13. All field trips for Friday, March 13 are canceled.
All school and Central Office staff should report as scheduled to work tomorrow, Friday, March 13. Specific information regarding expectations for all staff during the March 16-27 school closure will be shared during the day tomorrow.
Access to Instructional Resources
On Friday, March 13, we will provide students with information and instructional resources that can be used optionally while at home. A paper version of these documents will be sent home with all students according to their grade. These resources will not be collected or graded.
In addition, students may continue to work on classroom assignments provided by teachers prior to school closures. There are no expectations that assignments be turned in during the closure.
Food Distribution
Beginning Tuesday, March 17, we will be providing free "Grab-N-Go" nutritious meals to anyone age 18 and under at four school sites and five mobile sites. Meals will be available from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., weekdays, Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 27.
School Sites
Mobile Sites:
Plays, Concerts, SATs & Community School Use
All activities scheduled for Friday afternoon/evening, including plays, concerts and athletics are canceled. Additionally, the SAT scheduled for Saturday is canceled. All community activities being held in HCPSS facilities are canceled beginning Friday, March 13, 2020 at 6 p.m. for the duration of the time schools are closed.
Information Shared with Students
Understanding that students may be upset by what they are hearing related to Coronavirus and that schools will be closed, age-appropriate information will be shared with them tomorrow in classrooms and they are able to ask questions of a teacher. Any students who appear upset will be supported by a Student Services team member and parents will be contacted.
Make-Up Days
The State Superintendent recommended the use of planned Spring Break days as make-up days. We are reviewing this recommendation with the Maryland State Department of Education and will provide additional information to families as soon as possible.