Greetings all,

NAACP-MC Parents’ Council Reps have an exciting opportunity to share with their school network. 

Parents can help their children boost math skills over the Winter break using the IXL online learning platform.

Middle and High School students already have accounts through MCPS, and our collaboration with MCPS and IXL will provide Elementary School parents access to enroll in a trial account.

Sign up using the QR code in the flyer below, or using this link https://forms.gle/a14rrgDz9AZRjuXR9. As an additional incentive, students who meet the completion criteria will get incentives!!

Thank you to all of you who attended the meeting – there were 140 people registered. A special thanks to our speakers Shane’ Tate, Stephanie Brant, Robyn Holmes, and Colleen Burt.

Here are the notes:

• Agenda and Presentation
• Video
• CHAT

Quick recap

The meeting focused on updates and discussions regarding educational initiatives, field trips, and the implementation of restorative approaches in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Byron shared updates on approved field trips to museums, emphasizing the high demand and the need for schools to finalize dates and transportation arrangements. The group discussed the use of IXL, a math learning platform, with Colleen Burt and Robyn Holmes explaining how parents and students can utilize it effectively, including personalized diagnostic tools and practice plans. Shanae Tate Pimentel highlighted the need for better understanding and implementation of restorative practices, while participants shared their experiences and concerns about its application. Stephanie Brand, representing MCPS, provided insights into literacy and mathematics policy shifts and encouraged collaboration to enhance student learning experiences. The conversation ended with discussions on how to access and use IXL for students, including tips for parents to support their children’s math learning over winter break.

Next steps

• School principals : Lock down museum trip dates and get tickets from the museum
• School principals : Book transportation for approved museum trips, preferably using MCPS yellow buses to reduce costs
• Parents: Sign up for IXL trial account using the link in chat for winter break challengehttps://forms.gle/a14rrgDz9AZRjuXR9
• Parents: Encourage children to complete at least two IXL skills at 80 smart score during winter break to receive gift cards
  Summary
  
  Transportation and Educational Initiatives
  
  The meeting focused on several key topics, including the Black Ministers Conference’s potential contribution to the “Dining with Dignity” initiative and the availability of IXL, a math tool, for elementary schools during winter break with associated prizes. Byron shared exciting news about expanding transportation coverage for school trips through a state MSTE grant, clarifying that while yellow buses are preferred due to cost, some schools may need to use charter buses if yellow buses are unavailable. Dominique inquired about transportation specifics for a museum trip, and Byron confirmed that the transportation would be covered by the state grant, with yellow buses being the preferred option.
  
  School Boundary Equity Concerns
  
  The meeting focused on school boundary discussions, with Jessica raising concerns about inequitable proposed maps that disproportionately affect wealthier neighborhoods. Byron acknowledged these issues and mentioned ongoing discussions with MCPS, while Jessica highlighted communication challenges and lack of awareness among parents about boundary meetings. The agenda for the meeting included updates on field trips, restoring positive learning environments, and discussions with MCPS budget representatives and IXL application representatives.
  
  Museum Trip Approvals and Logistics
  
  The meeting focused on museum trip approvals and logistics. Byron announced that 6,300 students have been approved to visit one of four museums (Holocaust Museum, National Museum of African American History and Culture, Jewish Museum of Maryland, or Reginald Lewis Museum) in Baltimore, with an additional 2,400 pending approvals. He emphasized that schools must submit their requests through the proper channels and lock in dates quickly, as funding is limited.  Byron clarified that while there’s no strict cutoff, submissions will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out.
  
  MCPS Restorative Practices Implementation Discussion
  
  The meeting focused on discussing restorative approaches in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Shané, a parent council representative, led the discussion, highlighting gaps in understanding and implementation of restorative practices at the school level. Participants shared their experiences, with Tiffany noting a lack of clear communication and implementation in her child’s incident. Christina emphasized the difference in restorative practices between middle and elementary schools, while Asashia provided insights from MCPS’s perspective on the rollout of these approaches. The group discussed the need for better parent education and alignment between MCPS policies and school-level implementation. Shanae discussed the importance of restorative approaches in improving school climate and student well-being, while Byron announced plans to follow up with Nya Hamlet, the new Chief of Equity and Organizational Development. 
  
  IXL Implementation
  
  The meeting focused on restorative approaches in MCPS schools and the implementation of IXL for secondary mathematics students. Stephanie introduced herself as a director in the Division of Teaching and Learning, and highlighted the benefits of IXL as a supplement for mathematics instruction. The conversation ended with Robyn and Colleen set to present on IXL’s features and benefits for supporting student learning at home.
  
  IXL Math Learning Platform Overview
  
  Robyn shared her experience using IXL with her middle schooler, emphasizing its adaptability and the importance of proper implementation to enhance learning. Colleen, representing IXL, provided an overview of the platform’s features, including its K-12 curriculum, personalized guidance, and assessment tools, and demonstrated how students and parents can use it effectively. Participants asked questions about language options, trial access, and the availability of resources, with Colleen addressing these and providing additional resources for parents. The session aimed to help parents understand and utilize IXL to support their children’s math learning at home.
  
  IXL Platform Features Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated IXL’s features, including video tutorials, adaptive question difficulty, and the Smart Score system. She explained that a Smart Score of 80 indicates proficiency, while 100 represents mastery, and encouraged students to work towards 80 before moving on. Colleen also highlighted the platform’s tools for students to practice foundational skills and access study guides, emphasizing its adaptability and accessibility on various devices.
  
  IXL Math Learning Support
  
  Colleen led a discussion about using IXL, an online learning platform, to support students’ math learning. She explained how parents can help their children use IXL, including accessing diagnostic tools and personalized learning plans. Colleen emphasized the importance of limiting screen time to 20 minutes at a time and encouraged parents to monitor their children’s progress. She also discussed how IXL can be used to prepare for MAP testing, particularly for elementary students. The conversation ended with information about creating personalized study plans based on MAP scores.
  
  IXL Parent Monitoring Tools Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated how parents can use IXL to monitor their child’s progress on math skills and MAP growth plans. She explained that middle and high school students’ MAP scores are automatically loaded into IXL, and showed how parents can create a trial account to explore the platform. Colleen also discussed the MCAP skill plans and fact fluency tools available in IXL, emphasizing their usefulness for test preparation and skill development.
  
  IXL Fluency Zone Features Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated IXL’s fluency zone features, including the Raceway Challenge game, and explained how parents can use the platform to support their children’s learning. She discussed the winter break challenge and gift card incentive for grades 3-8. Colleen also covered how to customize trial accounts, add audio support, and translate content into 100 different languages. The conversation ended with a discussion about the cost of IXL for elementary schools and how to access trial accounts.
  
  IXL Math Tool Promotion Meeting
  
  The meeting focused on promoting IXL, a math learning tool, to parents and students. Byron and Colleen discussed the tool’s benefits, including its ability to identify skill gaps and reduce math anxiety. They announced a trial period with incentives, such as gift cards and a raffle for tablets and other prizes. Robyn shared a sign-up form for interested participants. The group also addressed concerns about privacy and data usage, which Colleen assured were handled securely.
  
  IXL Implementation in Montgomery County
  
  The meeting focused on the implementation of IXL, a learning platform, for students in Montgomery County Public Schools. Colleen explained that while the district provides IXL for grades 3-8, there are pilot programs for younger grades. Parents expressed interest in signing up their children for the 30-day trial, and Byron encouraged sharing information about the trial with interested families. The group discussed how to input reading scores for students in grades 3-8, with Colleen clarifying that MAP reading scores are not available for first graders. Angela raised concerns about access for high school students, and Colleen confirmed that IXL is available for Honors Geometry at Northwest High School. The conversation ended with Byron encouraging participants to sign up for the trial and share information with interested families.

Byron Johns

Chair, Education | Parents’ Council

NAACP-MC

bajusa@yahoo.com |  703.856.4354

Byron Johns
Vice President

• Agenda and Presentation
• Video
• CHAT

Quick recap

The meeting focused on updates and discussions regarding educational initiatives, field trips, and the implementation of restorative approaches in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Byron shared updates on approved field trips to museums, emphasizing the high demand and the need for schools to finalize dates and transportation arrangements. The group discussed the use of IXL, a math learning platform, with Colleen Burt and Robyn Holmes explaining how parents and students can utilize it effectively, including personalized diagnostic tools and practice plans. Shanae Tate Pimentel highlighted the need for better understanding and implementation of restorative practices, while participants shared their experiences and concerns about its application. Stephanie Brand, representing MCPS, provided insights into literacy and mathematics policy shifts and encouraged collaboration to enhance student learning experiences. The conversation ended with discussions on how to access and use IXL for students, including tips for parents to support their children’s math learning over winter break.

Next steps

• School principals : Lock down museum trip dates and get tickets from the museum
• School principals : Book transportation for approved museum trips, preferably using MCPS yellow buses to reduce costs
• Parents: Sign up for IXL trial account using the link in chat for winter break challengehttps://forms.gle/a14rrgDz9AZRjuXR9
• Parents: Encourage children to complete at least two IXL skills at 80 smart score during winter break to receive gift cards
  Summary
  
  Transportation and Educational Initiatives
  
  The meeting focused on several key topics, including the Black Ministers Conference’s potential contribution to the “Dining with Dignity” initiative and the availability of IXL, a math tool, for elementary schools during winter break with associated prizes. Byron shared exciting news about expanding transportation coverage for school trips through a state MSTE grant, clarifying that while yellow buses are preferred due to cost, some schools may need to use charter buses if yellow buses are unavailable. Dominique inquired about transportation specifics for a museum trip, and Byron confirmed that the transportation would be covered by the state grant, with yellow buses being the preferred option.
  
  School Boundary Equity Concerns
  
  The meeting focused on school boundary discussions, with Jessica raising concerns about inequitable proposed maps that disproportionately affect wealthier neighborhoods. Byron acknowledged these issues and mentioned ongoing discussions with MCPS, while Jessica highlighted communication challenges and lack of awareness among parents about boundary meetings. The agenda for the meeting included updates on field trips, restoring positive learning environments, and discussions with MCPS budget representatives and IXL application representatives.
  
  Museum Trip Approvals and Logistics
  
  The meeting focused on museum trip approvals and logistics. Byron announced that 6,300 students have been approved to visit one of four museums (Holocaust Museum, National Museum of African American History and Culture, Jewish Museum of Maryland, or Reginald Lewis Museum) in Baltimore, with an additional 2,400 pending approvals. He emphasized that schools must submit their requests through the proper channels and lock in dates quickly, as funding is limited.  Byron clarified that while there’s no strict cutoff, submissions will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out.
  
  MCPS Restorative Practices Implementation Discussion
  
  The meeting focused on discussing restorative approaches in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Shané, a parent council representative, led the discussion, highlighting gaps in understanding and implementation of restorative practices at the school level. Participants shared their experiences, with Tiffany noting a lack of clear communication and implementation in her child’s incident. Christina emphasized the difference in restorative practices between middle and elementary schools, while Asashia provided insights from MCPS’s perspective on the rollout of these approaches. The group discussed the need for better parent education and alignment between MCPS policies and school-level implementation. Shanae discussed the importance of restorative approaches in improving school climate and student well-being, while Byron announced plans to follow up with Nya Hamlet, the new Chief of Equity and Organizational Development. 
  
  IXL Implementation
  
  The meeting focused on restorative approaches in MCPS schools and the implementation of IXL for secondary mathematics students. Stephanie introduced herself as a director in the Division of Teaching and Learning, and highlighted the benefits of IXL as a supplement for mathematics instruction. The conversation ended with Robyn and Colleen set to present on IXL’s features and benefits for supporting student learning at home.
  
  IXL Math Learning Platform Overview
  
  Robyn shared her experience using IXL with her middle schooler, emphasizing its adaptability and the importance of proper implementation to enhance learning. Colleen, representing IXL, provided an overview of the platform’s features, including its K-12 curriculum, personalized guidance, and assessment tools, and demonstrated how students and parents can use it effectively. Participants asked questions about language options, trial access, and the availability of resources, with Colleen addressing these and providing additional resources for parents. The session aimed to help parents understand and utilize IXL to support their children’s math learning at home.
  
  IXL Platform Features Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated IXL’s features, including video tutorials, adaptive question difficulty, and the Smart Score system. She explained that a Smart Score of 80 indicates proficiency, while 100 represents mastery, and encouraged students to work towards 80 before moving on. Colleen also highlighted the platform’s tools for students to practice foundational skills and access study guides, emphasizing its adaptability and accessibility on various devices.
  
  IXL Math Learning Support
  
  Colleen led a discussion about using IXL, an online learning platform, to support students’ math learning. She explained how parents can help their children use IXL, including accessing diagnostic tools and personalized learning plans. Colleen emphasized the importance of limiting screen time to 20 minutes at a time and encouraged parents to monitor their children’s progress. She also discussed how IXL can be used to prepare for MAP testing, particularly for elementary students. The conversation ended with information about creating personalized study plans based on MAP scores.
  
  IXL Parent Monitoring Tools Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated how parents can use IXL to monitor their child’s progress on math skills and MAP growth plans. She explained that middle and high school students’ MAP scores are automatically loaded into IXL, and showed how parents can create a trial account to explore the platform. Colleen also discussed the MCAP skill plans and fact fluency tools available in IXL, emphasizing their usefulness for test preparation and skill development.
  
  IXL Fluency Zone Features Overview
  
  Colleen demonstrated IXL’s fluency zone features, including the Raceway Challenge game, and explained how parents can use the platform to support their children’s learning. She discussed the winter break challenge and gift card incentive for grades 3-8. Colleen also covered how to customize trial accounts, add audio support, and translate content into 100 different languages. The conversation ended with a discussion about the cost of IXL for elementary schools and how to access trial accounts.
  
  IXL Math Tool Promotion Meeting
  
  The meeting focused on promoting IXL, a math learning tool, to parents and students. Byron and Colleen discussed the tool’s benefits, including its ability to identify skill gaps and reduce math anxiety. They announced a trial period with incentives, such as gift cards and a raffle for tablets and other prizes. Robyn shared a sign-up form for interested participants. The group also addressed concerns about privacy and data usage, which Colleen assured were handled securely.
  
  IXL Implementation in Montgomery County
  
  The meeting focused on the implementation of IXL, a learning platform, for students in Montgomery County Public Schools. Colleen explained that while the district provides IXL for grades 3-8, there are pilot programs for younger grades. Parents expressed interest in signing up their children for the 30-day trial, and Byron encouraged sharing information about the trial with interested families. The group discussed how to input reading scores for students in grades 3-8, with Colleen clarifying that MAP reading scores are not available for first graders. Angela raised concerns about access for high school students, and Colleen confirmed that IXL is available for Honors Geometry at Northwest High School. The conversation ended with Byron encouraging participants to sign up for the trial and share information with interested families.

Byron Johns

Chair, Education | Parents’ Council

NAACP-MC

bajusa@yahoo.com |  703.856.4354

Byron Johns
Vice President