School news

Friday, Nov. 27, 2009

Educators, community to discuss what counts

St. Mary's County Public Schools will host What Counts III, a special community forum that serves as a follow-up to the What Counts II forum held two years ago to engage the community in dialogue centered on continuous improvement of the school system.

The forum will be held on Dec. 1 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center.

For more information, contact Zina McGowan-Thomas, public information officer, at 301-475-5511, ext. 193.

Workshop for families of special needs children set

St. Mary's County public schools' Partners for Success Resource Center for Families and Schools is hosting a workshop for parents regarding the psycho-educational testing used in St. Mary's public schools to determine eligibility for special education services.

The workshop will take place Wednesday, Dec. 2, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Board of Education Meeting Room, located at 23160 Moakley St. in Leonardtown.

The results of these tests, which can uncover the strengths and weaknesses of some students, can be confusing for many families.

Chris Grace, school psychologist, will review the tests currently used by the school system, explain what the tests measure, what the results mean for children and how those results help teachers plan instructional strategies.

Registration for this free workshop is required.

Contact Susan Shannon by phone at 301-863-4069 or by e-mail at smshannon@smcps.org to register or for more information.