This article brought to you by Maryland Muckraker.

The spring season is finally here. Even though there was a lack of snow (personally I don’t care for the snow), there were lots of activities in March across Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS), and even more to come. From special fundraisers, reading activities, and drug prevention awareness, there is no lack of school and community events popping up all over Carroll County. 

Future Farmers of America (FFA) 

In March, many families received information about different fundraisers. Four of the seven high school FFA’s participated in a strawberry fundraiser. Collectively, Francis Scott Key, Manchester Valley, Westminster and Winters Mill high schools sold 3,672 quarts of strawberries. Many of the FFA’s will be having more fundraisers in the coming weeks. Francis Scott Key will be doing a cookie dough fundraiser, and selling flowers for prom this year. South Carroll will be holding a dime pitch at the Lions Club carnival. Winters Mill will be holding a plant sale at the end of April. 

These fundraisers for our local FFA high schools help to pay for either FFA jackets, and competitions that are locally, state wide or even the national level.

Outstanding Teacher Awards 

Back in person, the annual Outstanding Teacher Awards were held March 29th at Winters Mill High School. 739 teachers were recognized at the event. Eight teachers were chosen as Outstanding Teacher of the Year, and one of those eight will be chosen to be Carroll County Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to all the teachers that were recognized, and good luck to the eight finalists. Thank you to all our teachers for all they do. 

Reading Across Maryland 

On Saturday March 25th, CCEA and CASE held the first in person Read Across Maryland since the COVID shutdowns. This year’s event was held at the Career and Technology Center. There were free pancakes for the children, a free book for each child, games/activities, magician Dave Thomen, and book readings by some special guests such as Delegate Eric Bouchat and CCPS Superintendent Cynthia McCabe. The event was very well attended, and all the children seemed to enjoy the event. A great event all thanks to CCEA and CASE. 

Drug and Violence Awareness Expo 

March 30th was the annual Drug and Violence Awareness Expo held at the Carroll County Ag Center. This event does have middle school age students attend but is also open to the public. There are various agencies and nonprofits that have information tables and activities at the expo that highlight opioid addiction, domestic violence, bullying, and sexual assaults. The expo hopes to help students and the public in educating issues not just Carroll County may have, but the Country.

Spring Break

Spring break is only a few days away. This much needed break is not just for the students, but our teachers as well. Many students will be doing their state testings before the break, and it can be a stressful time for the teachers and staff. Everyone, be sure to take some time for yourself. Hopefully the weather will be nice, and everyone can enjoy some time outside. Soak up some vitamin D, go on an easter egg hunt, and enjoy some relaxation. The end of the school is not that far away.

Lastly, High School drama productions are underway or will be performing soon. Go check them out!