Talbot County Public Schools | Talbot County MD

12 Magnolia Street
Easton, MD 21601
410-822-0330

www.tcps.k12.md.us

Current Update

When Talbot County is above the threshold for the testing positivity rate of 5%, and 15 new cases per 100,000 population (7 day moving average) that places us at high risk for transmission according to state guidelines. As a result, Dr. Wadley recommended that TCPS move back to full virtual instruction effective Thursday, November 19. All in-person extra-curricular activities including athletics are suspended until further notice.

View the TCPS RECOVERY PLAN | TCPS Recovery Plan (Spanish)

May 29 Update

TCPS meals will be distributed on Tuesday, June 2 and Friday, June 5 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at school sites. The Easton Elementary site has now moved to Union Baptist Church at 223 Glenwood Ave., Easton. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.
The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, June 2 from 9:00 – noon and Friday, June 5 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. Laptop return and diploma and personal belongings pick-up for Seniors will take place June 2 – June 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Easton High and St. Michaels Middle High.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
Registration is underway for new Pre-K and Kindergarten students. Please use this link to pre-register now: 2020-2020 Pre-Registration. School staff will contact families to complete the process when possible.
Please continue to send photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or to dgardner@talbotschools.org. Graduation Videos will be shared on June 1 at 6:00 p.m. for St. Michaels Middle High and June 2 at 6:00 p.m. for Easton High. Congratulations to the class of 2020!
The last day of school for students will be June 12. All student work must be submitted on or before that day. FOURTH QUARTER! FINISH STRONG! CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2020!

May 27 Update

TCPS meals and CarePacks will be distributed on Friday, May 29 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at school
sites. The Easton Elementary site has now moved to Union Baptist Church at 223 Glenwood Ave.,
Easton. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at
443-432-5091.

o The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, May 29 from noon to 3:00 p.m.
at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to
helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or
laptops. Laptop return and diploma and personal belongings pick-up will take place beginning the week
of June 1 for Seniors at Easton High and St. Michaels Middle High.
o TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits
to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
o Registration is underway for new Pre-K and Kindergarten students. Please use this link to pre-register
now: 2020-2021 Pre-Registration. School staff will contact families to complete the process when
possible.
o Please continue to send photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate
their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or
to dgardner@talbotschools.org. Graduation Videos will be shared on June 1 at 6:00 p.m. for St.
Michaels Middle High and June 2 at 6:00 p.m. for Easton High. Congratulations to the Class of 2020!
o Talbot County Public Schools announced the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year and Support Staff of the
Year with a surprise drive-by celebration at the home of each winner. The Teacher of the Year is Mr.
David Cherry, Easton High Mathematics Teacher, and the Support Staff of the Year is Ms. Tasha Aikens,
Special Education Instructional Assistant, also from Easton High. “Both of these individuals exemplify
the heart and soul of Talbot County Public Schools,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “I
congratulate these two outstanding educators on this well-deserved recognition.”
o The last day of school for students will be June 12. All student work must be submitted on or before
that day.

May 20 Update

TCPS meals and CarePacks will be distributed on Friday, May 22 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091. On Tuesday May 19, TCPS distributed 7176 meals and snacks, providing food for 598 children. The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, May 22 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
Registration is underway for new Pre-K and Kindergarten students. Please use this link to pre-register now: 2020-2020 Pre-Registration. School staff will contact families to complete the process when possible.

Please continue to send photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or to dgardner@talbotschools.org. Graduation Videos will be shared on June 1 at 6:00 p.m. for St. Michaels Middle High and June 2 at 6:00 p.m. for Easton High. Congratulations to the class of 2020! As a reminder, TCPS received a waiver from the Maryland State Department of Education in order to use Monday, May 25 as a make-up day for one of the 10 days of school closure in March. The last day of school for students will be June 12. Please look for updates from your child(ren)’s school(s) regarding turning in laptops and iPads and other year-end details. “As we approach the final weeks of the school year, I encourage staff, students and families to “FINISH STRONG” in this very unique fourth quarter,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “Please make the most of the teaching and learning opportunities that are being provided, and submit assignments as requested. If you are having any difficulties with this please don’t hesitate to ask teachers or school administrators for help. And remember to Stay Tuned, Stay Healthy, and Stay Hopeful!”

May 15 Update

TCPS meals will be distributed on Tuesday, May 19 and Friday, May 22 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is now providing frozen food items that require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091. The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, May 19 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Friday, May 22 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

Please continue to share photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or to dgardner@talbotschools.org. “We are looking forward to sharing our Class of 2020 Graduation Videos on June 1 at 6:00 p.m. for St. Michaels Middle High and June 2 at 6:00 p.m. for Easton High,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “Many thanks to the phenomenal TCPS Teams at both high schools for making this happen, and to ALL of our Class of 2020 families for their enthusiastic support. CONGRATULATIONS and Stay Tuned, Stay Healthy, and Stay Hopeful!”

May 13 Update

TCPS meals and CarePacks will be distributed Friday, May 15 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo
is now providing frozen food items that require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick
up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.
On Tuesday May 12, TCPS distributed 6300 meals and snacks, providing food for 700 children.

The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, May 15 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at
BOTH Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to
helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help
fight the spread of COVID-19.

The high school Administrators have sent detailed plans to the seniors and their families for graduation filming
and we look forward to this innovative recognition for our graduates. We are asking families to respect the
guidelines that have been set based on Governor Hogan’s existing “Stay at Home” order and on directives we
have received from law enforcement.

“Our graduating seniors and their families are truly making the most of their Alternative Graduation” said Dr.
Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “I have been very impressed by their spirit, enthusiasm, perseverance and GRIT,
and am so proud and grateful. Please Stay Tuned, Stay Healthy, and Stay Hopeful!”

May 6 Update

TCPS meals and CarePacks will be distributed Friday, May 8 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is now providing frozen food items that require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091. On Tuesday, May 5, TCPS distributed 8,556 meals and snacks (food for 3 days for 713 children). The volunteer support for this continues to be outstanding.

The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, May 8 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.

TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19. The high school administrators have sent detailed plans to the seniors and their families for next week’s graduation filming and we look forward to this innovative recognition for our graduates. We are asking families to respect the guidelines that have been set based on Governor Hogan’s existing “Stay at Home” order and on directives we have received from law enforcement. Please continue to share photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or to dgardner@talbotschools.org.

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and we are so grateful to our teachers for their flexibility, creativity and determination during this very challenging time. “As this is also National Nurses’ Week, I’d like to give a shout-out to all nurses,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “Now more than ever we appreciate their dedication to caring for patients under any and all circumstances, even when it puts their own health at risk.”

May 4 Update

TCPS meals will be distributed Tuesday, May 5 and Friday, May 8 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is now providing frozen food items that require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091. On Friday, May 1, TCPS distributed 7,872 meals and snacks (food for 2 days for 896 children) and 375 CarePacks. The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, May 5 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Friday, May 8 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19. Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post on the TCPS Facebook page. Please email photos to dgardner@talbotschools.org. Later this week our graduating Seniors will be picking up their caps and gowns at their respective schools. This is a drive through pick up so families are asked to remember and respect the social distancing order. The high school Administrators have sent detailed plans to the seniors and their families for next week’s graduation filming and we look forward to this innovative recognition for our graduates. Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! Please continue to share photos of graduating seniors wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military by emailing them to their guidance counselors or to dgardner@talbotschools.org.

This week is also Teacher Appreciation Week, and we are so grateful to our teachers for their flexibility, creativity and determination during this very challenging time. “Throughout the week our Leadership Team is delivering yard signs that say “Teaching Rockstar” to every teacher, because that’s what they really are,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “Many of them are teaching their own children while they are teaching everyone else’s. We are committed to celebrating our profession and working to keep spirits high during this difficult time. If you are able to, please take a moment to thank our teachers for all that they do!”

May 1 Update

TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post on the TCPS Facebook page. Please email photos to dgardner@talbotschools.org. “We are holding steady, continuing with our Continuity of Learning to finish strong in the fourth quarter,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “During this challenging time, many of our parents have let us know that they now understand so much more about what educators do! Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week so we ask everyone to please take a moment to thank our teachers for all that they do!”

April 29 Update

TCPS meals and CarePacks will be distributed Friday, May 1 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is
now providing frozen food items that require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up
meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.

The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, May 1 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton
High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please send an email to helpdesk@talbotschools.org for
virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help
fight the spread of COVID-19.

Third Quarter progress reports are being emailed or mailed this week, and plans for grading for the Fourth
Quarter have been shared with parents. We will begin distributing the Hot Spots purchased through the Talbot Family Network Grant this Friday, May 1 through the IT Helpdesk.

“We are grateful to all of the community partners who have supported our efforts to increase internet
connectivity for our students,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “This includes the Talbot Family
Network, as well as Easton Utilities, Atlantic Broadband, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, all of
whom have made Wifi available in public locations. This is a tremendous help to our staff and families!”

April 27 Update

TCPS meal distribution will be on Tuesday, April 28 and Friday, May 1 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is now providing frozen food items that will require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.

The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, April 28 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Friday May 1 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

We are determined to support our students to earn the credits for their currently enrolled courses. We will be sending information out today about 3rd quarter progress reports, and plans for grading for the 4th quarter. The Hot Spots purchased through the Talbot Family Network Grant are in and being programmed. They will be distributed this week, and we will be outfitting buses with Hot Spots for some of our rural areas.

Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post on the TCPS Facebook page. Please email photos to dgardner@talbotschools.org. “I am so very proud of our students, as they have handled the loss of many special events and activities this year extremely well,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “We are trying to do as much celebration and recognition for students and staff virtually as we possibly can, and we appreciate everyone’s ideas, patience and support.”

April 24 Update

The next TCPS meal distribution will be on Tuesday, April 28 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. Sodexo is now providing frozen food items that will require refrigerated storage and reheating. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.
Many thanks to Doug Kirby and the team at Washington Street Pub for placing an order from Sysco to support this week’s CarePacks! Most Sysco items are bulk packaged, so Doug and his crew took the time to break down the bulk items in the Pub kitchen and repackage them to be distributed to families. Once again, our amazing community steps up! The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, April 28 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Friday May 1 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19. Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post on the TCPS Facebook page. Photos can be emailed to dgardner@talbotschools.org.
“This week I met with the Class of 2020 graduation committee, which includes student representatives, members of the Board of Education and Administrators,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “I was so impressed with the creative and innovative ideas that the students shared during our meeting. We are formulating a detailed plan, so stay tuned for more information from building principals.”

April 22 Update

The next TCPS meal and CarePack distribution will be on Friday, April 24 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091. Many thanks to the Sodexo team as well as our dedicated volunteers for their tireless commitment to feeding Talbot County children. To date, they have prepared and helped distribute a total of 56,348 meals and snacks. The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, April 24 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post to the TCPS Facebook page. Photos can be emailed to dgardner@talbotschools.org.
“Today is National Administrative Professionals Day, which recognizes the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists, client services representatives, and other administrative support professionals,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “I would like to thank each and every member of the TCPS Team who fulfills these vital roles in our organization. We depend on them in more ways than we could ever list and I am truly grateful!”

April 20 Update

The next TCPS meal distribution will be on Tuesday, April 21 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. If you are unable to pick up meals and need emergency delivery, please call Crystal Miller at 443-432-5091.
The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, April 21 from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Friday, April 24 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
TCPS encourages parents to wear masks/cloth face coverings during meal pickups or IT Help Desk visits to help fight the spread of COVID-19. In a recommendation released by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity, and they would recommend wearing a mask or cloth face covering in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Wearing cloth masks, the CDC said, could “help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.”
Help us celebrate the Class of 2020! We are asking our Seniors and their families to share photos of themselves wearing gear and/or holding signs to celebrate their commitments to college, career, or the military to post to the TCPS Facebook page. Photos can be emailed to dgardner@talbotschools.org.
Dr. Karen Salmon, Maryland Superintendent of Schools, has announced that all schools will remain closed through May 15. TCPS will continue with Continuity of Learning during the coming weeks with both distance learning and by mailing packets to students who lack adequate internet access. We are looking forward to receiving the 100 hot spots made possible through a grant from the Talbot Family Network, and we intend to utilize funds from the CARES Act for additional hot spots and devices. We are also working on a plan for recovery beyond Continuity of Learning, whether or not we ultimately return to our school buildings. TCPS
Counselors and Social workers are reaching out to students and families to ensure that all needs are being met.
A committee has been formed to make an alternative plan if needed for celebrating graduation for the TCPS Class of 2020 so more information about this will be forthcoming in the near future.
“We will continue to remain flexible to adapt to this dynamic and challenging situation, as we focus on meeting the needs of ALL of our students,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent.

April 17 Update

The next TCPS meal distribution will be on Tuesday, April 21 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites.
The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Tuesday, April 21 from 9:00 a.m. to noon
and Friday, April 24 from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please
email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or
laptops.
Many thanks to the volunteers who continue to support TCPS meal distribution. Since March 19, 395 people
have given 1,008 hours of service to this important mission. The close partnerships and collaboration with
agencies such as Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, Talbot County Department of Social Services and
TCPS guidance counselors is truly having an impact. We also have a process in place to screen emergency
requests for delivery and are able to utilize volunteers to reach families whose circumstances prevent them
from getting to a pickup site. These outreach efforts will continue as the crisis persists.
“I would like to thank the Academy Art Museum for donating art supplies that were distributed with meals,”
said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “We have children who are at home, taking care of each other while
their parents perform essential work duties. Gifts like this make a tremendous difference in their days.

April 15 Update

The next TCPS meal and CarePack distribution will be on Friday, April 17 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites. The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open on Friday, April 17 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops. The Maryland State Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, April 14. The Talbot County Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, April 15 and will review several waivers that resulted from that meeting. We will evaluate local policies that parallel State policies which have been approved for potential waivers. This may include some assessments and service learning requirements for the Class of 2020 which may be waived. The Board will also look at local policies we might be able to adjust, and will be considering a waiver request of school days for the 2019-2020 school year as MSDE recommended. Thanks to Easton Utilities and the TCPS Technology Team for setting up additional hotspots around the community and in school parking lots. We have also received a grant from the Talbot Family Network for an additional 100 hot spots which are on order. As of today with these measures in place, 88% of TCPS students are able to access on-line learning either in their home or by going to a hotspot. We have also purchased equipment to establish hotspots on our school buses. We are continuing to mail packets to make sure we are reaching every child in our school system. “I will be recording a video after tonight’s board meeting to provide an update on actions taken, as it is important to remain transparent and continue to communicate in order to support our children,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “I want to thank everyone for their continued patience and support. Our seniors were born during 9/11,
so this is the second major community crisis they’ve endured, and we must keep this in mind as they navigate this situation.”

April 13 Update

This week’s TCPS meal distribution will be on Tuesday, April 14 and Friday, April 17 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites.
The TCPS Instructional Technology Help Desk will be open this week on Tuesday, April 14 from 9:00 a.m. – noon and Friday, April 17 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. Please email helpdesk@talbotschools.org for virtual support or to schedule a help desk appointment for iPads or laptops.
A TCPS Board meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 15th at 6:00 pm and can be viewed through Granicus on our website at www.talbotschools.org.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience, engagement, and support! Stay Tuned! Stay Healthy! Stay Hopeful!” – Kelly Griffith

April 8 Update

TCPS will follow the approved 2019-2020 school calendar with all schools closed from 4/9 – 4/13.
Meals and CarePacks will still be distributed on Friday, April 10 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at all school sites.
The TCPS IT Help Desk will be CLOSED on Friday April 10. Help Desk hours next week will be Tuesday, April 14 from 9:00 a.m. – noon and Friday, April 17 from noon – 3:00 p.m. at Easton High School and St. Michaels Elementary School. “I’d like to give a shout-out to our EXCELLENT Tech team,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “They have worked tirelessly these past few weeks bringing Continuity of Learning on-line for our students and supporting their needs through device distribution and a virtual Help Desk.”

April 6 Update

“We are back to school for closing out the third quarter and starting the fourth quarter! We had a new ‘Opening Day’ and I have been so impressed with our educators’ commitment to our students,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “We have reached out to every student, which we believe is so very important. We distributed approximately 1750 iPads last Thursday and Friday, and we were so appreciative of the Easton Police Department for their support!” Meal Distribution this week will be Tuesday, April 7 and Friday, April 10 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at each school site (except EHS). TCPS will observe Spring Break this week with all schools and offices closed Thursday April 9 – Monday April 13.

April 3 Update

It’s Back to School for Talbot County Students

Teachers have been connecting with their students this week as they prepare to begin continuity of learning for students through an expanded distance learning model on Monday, April 6. Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent, Talbot County Public Schools, and her team have spent the week preparing for the new model by offering additional training to teachers on virtual learning and collaborating with them to develop activities that will engage students in grade-level and course specific learning. Volunteers and staff distributed iPads to elementary students on Thursday and Friday, and educational materials are being mailed, both in an effort to prepare students for the new system. “Our teachers have been reaching out to all of their students this week.” Dr. Griffith says. “Now that technology devices have been picked up, and packets are being prepared to be mailed, we are looking forward to reconnecting with our students. It truly brings joy to all of our hearts to see the children excited to reengage in their learning.” School officials seem to have thought of every possible scenario, including how to help those who have difficulty operating an iPad and those who need repairs. To help, the TCPS Technology team has established Helpdesk hours for students and parents who need assistance. “Continuity of learning is a new model for all of us,” explains Dr. Helga Einhorn, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. “Our TCPS teachers have been working collaboratively this week to create the best learning
Talbot County Emergency Services Clay Stamp, Director, Asst. County Manager www.talbotdes.org
Talbot County Health Department Dr. Fredia Wadley, Health Officer https://health.maryland.gov/talbotcounty/
opportunities for our students under our current circumstances. Their efforts truly convey how much they care about their students and their willingness to do whatever it takes to continue to engage them in learning.” Though school buildings have been closed since March 16, volunteers and staff have continued to provide meals to children ages 2 through 18. Parents can pick up meals at distribution sites throughout the county on Tuesdays and Fridays, and the CarePacks food program continues to supply backpacks of snacks for the weekends.
For those who have questioned whether the extraordinary measures taken by the governor are necessary, Health Officer Dr. Fredia Wadley has an answer. “The increasing numbers show us this is real,” Dr. Wadley explains. “There is no vaccine for this disease yet, but we can control our behavior. The two big things are social distancing and washing your hands. It’s not a silver bullet, but it will help protect you and your family, and it will help protect our school-age children.”

April 1 Update

We will be distributing IPads to elementary students at their schools on Thursday, April 2 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and on Friday, April 3 from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. TCPS recognizes that not all of our families have access to reliable internet connectivity, so we are also planning for how we can best meet the needs of all students.
Teachers have reached out to families to determine whether or not they have internet access. Learning activity packets will be mailed to students who currently do not have internet access, and therefore would not be able to utilize an IPad or laptop for distance learning.
TCPS Technology has established Helpdesk hours for any student requiring assistance or repair for a laptop or IPad.
1. Helpdesk locations: SMES and EHS in the front lobby.
2. Helpdesk Days/Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays 9AM- 3PM (Empezando el martes, 7 de abril)
3. Drop off/Pickup: Plastic bags will be provided for devices being dropped off. Parents and students will remain in their cars.
5. Email Access: Send emails to helpdesk@talbotschools.org to ask questions online, appointments will be encouraged.
6. Disinfecting: Techs will wipe down devices upon receipt and prior to return.
Food Distribution
The next TCPS meal distribution for children ages 2-18 will be PICK UP ONLY on Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
 Chapel District Elementary
 Easton Middle
 Easton Elementary-Dobson
 St. Michaels Middle High
 Tilghman Elementary
 White Marsh Elementary
The Friday package will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack for Friday and Monday along with the CarePacks weekend food bag. “I continue to marvel at the number of committed staff and volunteers who make this all happen amid this pandemic!” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent.

March 31 Update

Distance Learning
Beginning Monday, April 6, TCPS will move to a distance learning model in which teachers will be engaging with their students virtually. In order to facilitate this, we have designated the week of March 30-April 3 as a transition week to prepare our teachers for this new model. We are providing our teachers with professional development for using technology for virtual learning, and providing them with time to develop learning activities that can be supported through our technology. We will be distributing IPads to elementary students at their schools on Thursday, April 2 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and on Friday, April 3 from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. TCPS recognizes that not all of our families have access to reliable internet connectivity, so we are also planning for how we can best meet the needs of all students.
Food Distribution for Students
Based on the Governor’s Stay at Home Directive issued by Executive Order on March 30, 2020, TCPS meal distribution for children ages 2-18 will move to PICK-UP ONLY.
Beginning Tuesday March 31, meal pick-up will CONTINUE AT THE FOLLOWING SITES ONLY on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9-11 a.m.:
 Chapel District Elementary
 Easton Middle
 Easton Elementary-Dobson
 St. Michaels Middle High
 Tilghman Elementary
 White Marsh Elementary
The package that is distributed on Tuesday will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The Friday package will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack for Friday and Monday along with the CarePacks weekend food bag.

March 27 Update

Beginning Monday March 30, meal pick-up will CONTINUE AT THE FOLLOWING SITES ONLY:
Easton Middle School
Easton Elementary-Dobson
St. Michaels Middle High School
On Monday March 30, we will begin delivery based on requests received by 4:00 Wednesday 3/25/2020. Requests received after that time will be added when possible. In order to maintain social distancing, volunteers will leave meals at mailboxes, front steps, etc. They will not knock on doors. Deliveries will occur during the approximate time frame of 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

March 26 Update

The TCPS Transportation Department is working to build routes for additional meal deliveries by TCPS school buses and vans.
If you are able to pick up meals at one of the 11 sites listed below, please continue to do so THROUGH Friday March 27.
FREE meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at all of the following drive-by/pick-up locations from 9-11 a.m. through Friday March 27:
 Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, Pippin Farm, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, Tilghman Elementary, and Unionville Church. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack.
Beginning Monday March 30, meal distribution (pick-up) will CONTINUE AT THE FOLLOWING SITES ONLY:
Easton Middle School
Easton Elementary-Dobson
St. Michaels Middle High School
On Monday March 30, we will begin delivering meals by TCPS school buses and vans based on the requests we have received to date. In order to maintain social distancing, volunteers will leave meals at mailboxes, front steps, etc. Deliveries will occur during the approximate time frame of 9-11 a.m.

March 25 Update

During the Governor’s 3/25/2020 Press Conference, we were notified by Dr. Karen Salmon, Maryland State Superintendent, that all school buildings will be closed through April 24th, 2020, with the expectation for continuity of learning to continue for students during this time.
 Our team has been preparing for this eventuality with limited 12 month staff. Our staff is confident we can provide continuity of learning for all students in TCPS now that we are able to engage our teachers in the process. We will solidify these plans to ensure that our expectations are aligned with the Maryland State Department of Education’s guidance, and will begin to share our refined plan for this extended school closure with our families and staff next week.  The TCPS team of leaders will continue to work tirelessly to implement and update our action plan for COVID-19 to meet the challenges of new mandates that come from the state. Not only is TCPS poised to support our students’ academic needs through distance learning and alternative learning materials, we will also continue to be responsive to our students’ needs for meals while school buildings are closed.  During this time, communication is critically important. Please know that we will strive to keep our community informed as the situation evolves.

Meal Distribution
FREE meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following locations from 9-11 a.m.: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, Pippin Farm, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, Tilghman Elementary, and Unionville Church. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.
We are in the process of collecting addresses of families in need of the meals so we can plan bus routes for meal delivery in the future if needed. Please use this link to sign up for delivery even if you are currently picking up meals at one of our sites: Meal Delivery Request (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available).

March 24 Update

We are in the process of collecting addresses of families in need of the meals so we can plan bus routes for meal delivery in the future if needed. Please use this link to sign up for delivery even if you are currently picking up meals at one of our sites: Meal Delivery Request (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available).

March 23 Update

March 22 Update

Meal Distribution Information
 FREE meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following locations from 9-11 a.m.: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, Pippin Farm, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, Tilghman Elementary, and Unionville Church. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.
 If families are unable to get to one of the sites to pick up meals please use this link to sign up for delivery: Meal Delivery Request (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available). We are in the process of collecting addresses of those in need of the meals so we can plan bus routes for meal delivery in the future if needed. You may also email Emily Moody at emoody@talbotschools.org to set up a CarePacks delivery on Fridays.
 A page has been added to the TCPS website where information is posted for parents such as educational enrichment materials, updated information about COVID-19, and help for children and families in understanding and coping with this challenging situation. https://www.tcps.k12.md.us/quick-links/COVID-resources.
 Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools, adds, “Many thanks to the continued efforts of our collaborative, creative, hard-working, selfless team of TCPS staff and volunteers! Stay Healthy! Stay Tuned! Stay Hopeful!”

March 20 Update

Meal Distribution Information
FREE meals are being distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following expanded list of locations
from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover
and Aurora Streets, Magnolia Meadows, Pippin Farms, the Neighborhood Service Center, Unionville Church,
St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary,
and Tilghman Elementary. Meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack.
 Meal packs for 600 children were distributed on 3/19/2020 including emergency and satellite site
deliveries. This represents a total of 1,200 meals and a 500% increase in one day.
 CHILDREN MUST BE PRESENT and be between the ages of 2 and 18. Adults cannot accept meals on
behalf of children. No names need to be provided.
 Children do not have to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
 CarePacks will be delivered to as many sites as possible on Fridays to provide weekend meals,
depending on supply.
 If families are unable to get to one of the sites due to an emergency (lack of transportation, work
schedule conflict, illness in the family, etc.) to pick up meals or CarePacks, please use this link to sign up
for meal delivery: Emergency Meal Delivery Request (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery
will be available). You may also email Ms. Emily Moody at emoody@talbotschools.org to set up a
CarePacks delivery on Fridays.

March 19 Update

Meal Distribution Information
FREE meals are being distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following expanded list of locations from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets, Magnolia Meadows, Pippin Farms, the Neighborhood Service Center, Unionville Church, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, and Tilghman Elementary. Meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack.
 Meals packs for 600 children were distributed on 3/19/2020 including emergency and satellite site deliveries. This represents a total of 1,200 meals and a 500% increase in one day.
 CHILDREN MUST BE PRESENT and be between the ages of 2 and 18. Adults cannot accept meals on behalf of children. No names need to be provided.
 Children do not have to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
 CarePacks will be delivered to as many sites as possible on Fridays to provide weekend meals, depending on supply.
 If families are unable to get to one of the sites due to an emergency situation (lack of transportation, work schedule conflict, illness in the family, etc.) to pick up meals or CarePacks, please use this link to sign up for meal delivery: Emergency Meal Delivery Request (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available). You may also email Ms. Emily Moody at emoody@talbotschools.org to set up a CarePacks delivery on Fridays.

March 18 Update

UPDATED Meal Distribution Information:

Beginning Thursday 3/19/2020 FREE meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following expanded list of locations: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, and Tilghman Elementary. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.

Drive-by or walk-up meal pickup will be at all locations from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Monday through Friday.
No names need to be provided.
CHILDREN MUST BE PRESENT and must be between the ages of 2 and 18. Adults cannot accept meals on behalf of children.
Children do not have to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
CarePacks will be delivered to all sites on Fridays to provide weekend meals (while supplies last).

If families are unable to get to one of the sites due to an emergency situation (lack of transportation, work schedule conflict, illness in family, etc.) to pick up meals or CarePacks, please use this link to sign up for meal delivery: https://tcpsforms.org/TCPS/view.php?id=439535(Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available). You may also email Ms. Emily Moody at emoody@talbotschools.org to set up a CarePacks delivery on Fridays.

March 17 Update

FREE breakfast and lunch for children 2-18 will be available for pick-up again tomorrow 3/18/19 at Easton Middle School, Easton Elementary Dobson, St. Michaels Middle High and the St. Michaels Police Department.
Beginning Thursday 3/19/2020 FREE meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following expanded list of locations: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the Corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, and Tilghman Elementary. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.
- Drive-by or walk-up meal pickup will be at all locations from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Monday through Friday.
- No names need to be provided.
- CHILDREN MUST BE PRESENT and must be between the ages of 2 and 18. Adults cannot accept meals on behalf of children.
- Children but do not have to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
CarePacks will be delivered to all sites on Fridays to provide weekend meals (while supplies last). If families are unable to get to one of the schools to pick up CarePacks, please email Ms. Emily Moody at emoody@talbotschools.orgto set up a CarePacks delivery for Friday March 20.

March 13 Update

Pursuant to the decision announced by State Superintendent Dr. Karen Salmon during Governor Hogan’s press conference, all Maryland public schools will be closed from Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27. At this time TCPS Staff is initiating the following:

Cleaning and disinfecting all buildings and buses.
Contacting parents to come into schools to pick up medications.
Working with Sodexo and CarePacks to set up meal distribution sites. CarePacks has also indicated they will utilize volunteers to deliver meals.
Ensuring that students in grades 6-12 take home laptops and chargers.
Assembling materials to be sent home with elementary students.
Forming strategies to provide work opportunities for staff who do not receive compensation when schools are closed.

“The decisions made concerning the handling of COVID-19 within TCPS will be consistent with our values – placing health and safety above all – and will represent our best judgement as we adapt to this rapidly changing situation,” said Dr. Kelly L. Griffith, Superintendent. “I appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience as we navigate this uncharted territory.”

Emergency Services: 410-770-8160 | Health Department: 410-819-5600