Fifth graders at Fulton Elementary school recently participated in a learning experience that gave them a glimpse into the way our government works. The Simulated Congressional Hearingheld on Friday, May 13,, was the culminating activity for the "We the People" social studies program used in the Howard County School System. In each class, co-operative teams were assigned questions about the Constitution. Students spent classroom time on research and discussion. They also collaborated on essay writing and presented before a panel of community representatives acting as a congressional committee. Students then answered follow-up questions posed by the committee members. The format provided students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of constitutional principles while providing teachers with an excellent means of evaluation. One issue discussed by the fifth-graders was individual rights versus the common good. I was lucky enough to see these hearings and was very impressed by the hard work and respectful collaboration displayed by these young students.
Congratulations to the Reservoir High School Music Programs.The spring concert series concluded on Friday, May 13, with fantastic performances by the jazz band, women's choir, men's choir, madrigal singers and symphonic band. "America, The Beautiful" was an excellent way to end a wonderful evening! Congratulations also to several music students who were awarded All-State Honors this year. Marcus Campbell participated in the Senior All-State Mixed Chorus and Tory Airapetian sang in the Senior All-State Women's Choir.Eva Sauer and Kayla Krammes performed with the Senior All-State Orchestra.In addition, Kirin Kambon was selected for the Junior All-State Band.Finally, Funmi Erinle was selected as an All-State Alternate for the women's choir.
Kindergarten registration for next school year has started so if you have a child who turns 5 before Sept. 1, you will want to be sure your child is registered soon. You can verify your school attendance boundary by going to http://www.hcpss.org/school-planning/. Students must be registered by their custodial parent. Parents can complete a registration form at their school or fill out one ahead of time to complete the registration process. The documents that are required at time of registration include a parent's picture ID, a signed original, current lease or deed, a current utility bill with name and address issued within the previous 45 days, student's proof of birth, proof of parental relationship, custody, or guardianship, student's current proof of immunizations, documentation of Special Education (IEP), 504, psychological report, or related services if applicable and any additional paperwork that may be necessary due to special living arrangements or circumstances.
Saturday, June 4,, is the date for Savage Fest and the annual Strawberry Festival and Bake Sale at the United Methodist Church of Savage on Baltimore Street. Open pit beef, pork barbecue, chicken salad, hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, baked beans, ice cream, fresh strawberries and shortcake biscuits will be served from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information can be found at www.umcsavage.org or by calling the church at 301-725-7630. That is small town fun at its best!
The Treasures in the Attic Appraisal Event and Picnic is planned for Sunday, June 5. The Laurel Historical Society's traditional Friends and Family Picnic starts noon in the cabana room at 14403 Greenview Drive, Laurel, next to Patuxent Greens.Hot dogs and chicken will be provided and attendees are asked to bring a dish. Names starting with A-H should bring beverages. Names starting with I – O are asked to bring a side dish to share and those with names starting with P-Z can bring a dessert to share. At 1 p.m. appraisals will be provided by nationally known antiques and art appraiser Todd Peenstra. Appraisals will cost $5.00 per item for society members and $10.00 for non-members. Be sure to bring your thrift shop, garage sale finds or treasures from your attic.Reservations to either or both events are requested but not required. To RSVP you can email info@laurelhistoricalsociety.org. Please indicate if you are coming to the picnic and/or the appraisal.
The Southern Howard County Civic Association meetingis planned for Tuesday, June 7,, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Laurel Community Center. The discussion topics will include the Howard County rain tax and the health of the Chesapeake Bay. Guest speakers from the Howard County Environmental and Sierra Club will be there. Call240-786-5747 if you would like more information.