Check out what’s going on in the four areas AACPS Division of Academics & Strategic Initiatives (ASI): Curriculum & Instruction (C&I); Advanced Studies & Programs (ASP); Partnerships, Development& Marketing (PDM); and Professional Growth & Development (PGD). Throughout the year, this page will feature highlights on professional development opportunities, curricular support, grant and engagement opportunities, Triple E updates, instructional strategies, awards & recognitions, Programs of Choice offerings, and family outreach events.
January 2016
“I’ve had so many incredible experiences, met amazing people and learned so much not only about the places around me, but about myself.”
"My experience with Arundel's signature program and how the opportunities they gave me led me to where I am today!" --Abby Piegols
“How prepared students are for college or careers depends on what they get from the school system, and we want to be a part of that.”
"As a credit union focused on helping members of the educational community achieve their financial dreams, the fundamental belief in the power and importance of giving back is at the core of everything the Educational Systems Federal Credit Union does. Throughout Maryland, this organization works with seven different public school systems and three community colleges to support education at all levels." --Vic Samuels
“I remember this meeting so well because it was the first meeting in the program that would change my life. “
"Ever since this first meeting I have been heavily involved with the Change-Engineering Signature Program. Mr. Elston has helped me in many different ways to accomplish my dream, like introducing me to congressman and many State Delegates. I truly believe if a student has someone like Mr. Elston in their life the things they can accomplish will be outstanding. " --Josh Lewis
“Students crave relevance to the academics that they are learning. Community members bring that relevance by sharing their personal and professional experiences with the students.”
"My passion is with the Signature Programs in the high schools. These themed programs engage students in real world experiences, teaching them soft skills that are not always part of the standard curriculum." --Bruce Morgenstern
“In high school I learned that labels don’t mean anything. It’s not about what is on the outside, it’s what makes up our inner soul.”
"Don't allow yourself to conform to your surrounding environment, keep pushing yourself to become a better person and never forget your true identity. Always remember everyone is fighting their own battle." --Aly Danick
“That special relationship, and friendship, helped begin me on my way to becoming the man with the confidence to believe in himself as I moved from lawyer to legislator to judge.”
"Thus began my friendship with what quickly became the first adult to take me seriously as a peer. For the first time in my life, I could argue with an adult who took me seriously. And it was at Andover that teachers like that history teacher did that for me. Without them, I would not be who I am. I owe them a lot." --Mike Burns
Mr. Collins Sparked My Passion for Teaching
"As I look back on why I am the teacher I am today, I think of one man who truly was an inspiration to all who walked through the doors of Chesapeake High School." --Jennie Merrill, SPES
Fostering the STEM Spirit
"Over the course of the last two school years, Mr. Jim Windgassen, Fellow Engineer from the Northrop Grumman Underseas Systems Division, Annapolis, MD has made engineering a reality for over 125 middle school students at Old Mill Middle South. Not only did he dedicate his time and expertise, he donated materials, secured a substantial grant, sought out donations, and oversaw the implementation of each of these builds." --Jim Windgassen
“I experienced first-hand how the AVID program benefited students.”
"It is very fulfilling for me to observe the enthusiasm of AACPS teachers as they incorporate AVID strategies into their teaching and share their success in the classroom. In essence, I see that AVID builds confidence in both students and teachers!" --MaryAnn Orso
“What we’re really doing is growing a community…that says education is important to us”
"No matter whether we're a private individual, private organization, or civic organization, we have a responsibility to be good citizens and do what we can to make sure the next generation grows up and is successful." --Joe Van Deuren