Charles Carroll Middle School 2024–2025 Academic Year Guide: Key Dates, Student Programs and Family Engagement

Charles Carroll Middle School, located in New Carrollton, Maryland, and part of Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), offers a robust educational environment built on academic excellence, inclusivity, and community involvement. With its diverse student body, committed educators, and comprehensive support systems, the school prepares students for high school success and lifelong learning. This all-in-one guide for the 2024–2025 school year includes essential academic dates, curriculum details, enrichment programs, school policies, and parent involvement resources.

School Calendar and Key Academic Dates

School Calendar and Key Academic Dates

First and Last Day of School

The 2024–2025 school year at Charles Carroll Middle School is set to begin in late August and will conclude in mid-June. The first week of school includes orientation activities, supply distribution, and introductory sessions to help students settle into their routines.

Grading Periods and Academic Reports

Charles Carroll follows a quarterly grading system. Students and families can expect:

  • Progress Reports: Issued at the halfway point of each quarter
  • Report Cards: Released at the end of each grading period

Academic performance can be monitored through the SchoolMAX Family Portal, which provides real-time access to grades, attendance, and teacher feedback.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Two official parent-teacher conferences are scheduled during the year. These meetings offer valuable opportunities for parents to collaborate with teachers, discuss goals, and support student learning.

Observed Holidays and Scheduled Breaks

Charles Carroll Middle School observes all PGCPS holidays, including:

  • Labor Day
  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Break
  • Winter Break
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Presidents’ Day
  • Spring Break
  • Memorial Day

These breaks allow students and staff time to rest and recharge for continued academic success.

Early Dismissal and Teacher Planning Days

Professional Development Days

The school year includes professional development days for staff training and curriculum improvement. Students do not attend school on these days as teachers engage in planning and collaboration.

Early Release Days

On early dismissal days, students leave school a few hours earlier than normal. These dates support professional learning and school-wide meetings and are communicated to families in advance.

Academic Curriculum and Programs

Core Subject Instruction

Charles Carroll Middle School delivers instruction in:

  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies

The curriculum aligns with Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards, emphasizing critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and academic rigor.

Honors and Specialized Courses

Advanced learners can enroll in honors-level classes in core subjects to challenge themselves academically. These classes offer greater depth and complexity, preparing students for high school AP and IB pathways.

ESOL and Special Education Services

The school offers English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) instruction to support multilingual learners. Special education services include individualized instruction, co-teaching models, and tailored academic support based on student needs.

Electives and Enrichment Opportunities

Students can explore creative and career-building subjects through elective courses such as:

  • Visual Arts
  • Music (Band, Orchestra, Choir)
  • Spanish or French
  • Technology and Engineering
  • Physical Education
  • Computer Science and Media Literacy

Electives promote hands-on learning, skill development, and personal growth beyond the core curriculum.

Student Clubs, Leadership, and Extracurricular Activities

Student Clubs Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

After-School Programs and Clubs

Charles Carroll Middle School offers a variety of extracurriculars, including:

  • Student Government Association (SGA)
  • National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)
  • Robotics and Coding Club
  • Drama and Theater
  • Book Club
  • Art and Design Club
  • Debate and Public Speaking

These programs promote leadership, creativity, and collaboration.

Athletics and Physical Wellness

Athletic opportunities include:

  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Cheerleading
  • Track and Field
  • Flag Football

Participation in sports teaches students responsibility, discipline, and healthy competition.

Technology Integration and Digital Learning

Device Access

All students receive a school-issued Chromebook to support learning in school and at home. Teachers incorporate technology into daily instruction through:

  • Google Classroom
  • Clever
  • IXL
  • Newsela
  • Discovery Education

Library and Research Resources

The media center offers digital research tools, print books, and project space. Library staff help students with technology use and academic research.

Digital Citizenship

Students learn about:

  • Online safety
  • Responsible social media use
  • Academic integrity
  • Cyberbullying prevention

School Events and Community Celebrations

Charles Carroll Middle School hosts a variety of cultural, academic, and celebratory events during the year, including:

  • Back-to-School Night
  • Hispanic Heritage Month
  • Black History Month Assembly
  • Literacy Night
  • STEM Fair
  • Winter and Spring Concerts
  • Career Day
  • Spirit Week and Pep Rallies
  • 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony

These events build school pride, highlight diversity, and connect families to school life.

Parent Involvement and Communication

Staying Connected

Families receive regular updates through:

  • SchoolMessenger phone and text alerts
  • Weekly emails and newsletters
  • School website announcements
  • Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
  • SchoolMAX Family Portal

Opportunities to Get Involved

Parents can participate by:

  • Joining the Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA)
  • Volunteering at school events
  • Attending academic nights and school forums
  • Serving on school advisory councils

Family involvement strengthens academic performance and school community bonds.

Student Expectations and Campus Conduct

Attendance Policy

Daily attendance and punctuality are expected. Families should report all absences promptly and encourage students to complete any missed assignments.

Dress Code

Students are expected to follow the PGCPS dress guidelines, wearing appropriate attire that promotes safety and respect. Clothes with offensive or disruptive content are not allowed.

Behavior Standards and PBIS

Charles Carroll implements Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to maintain a respectful, inclusive learning environment. Students are expected to:

  • Be respectful and responsible
  • Follow classroom and hallway rules
  • Treat others with kindness
  • Stay engaged in learning activities

Positive behavior is reinforced through incentives, recognition programs, and student leadership roles.

Campus Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Safety Practices

Charles Carroll Middle School emphasizes student safety with:

  • Secure building access
  • Campus security personnel
  • Visitor check-in procedures
  • Regular emergency drills (fire, lockdown, weather)

Emergency Communication

Families are informed of emergencies through:

  • Automated calls and texts
  • Email alerts
  • School and district websites
  • Social media announcements

Make-up days may be scheduled if closures occur due to weather or emergencies.

Community Partnerships and Support Services

Charles Carroll partners with local organizations to support students through:

  • Mentorship programs
  • Mental health counseling
  • Tutoring services
  • College and career readiness workshops
  • Nutrition and wellness programs

School counselors are available for academic guidance, emotional support, and future planning.

FAQs About Charles Carroll Middle School

When does the 2024–2025 school year begin?
The academic year begins in late August and ends in mid-June, following the PGCPS calendar.

How can parents track student grades and attendance?
Parents can use the SchoolMAX Family Portal to view grades, attendance, and teacher comments in real time.

Are Chromebooks provided to every student?
Yes, each student receives a Chromebook for school and home use as part of the 1:1 digital initiative.

What extracurricular activities are available?
Students can participate in NJHS, robotics, drama, SGA, sports, and many other clubs.

How can parents get involved at Charles Carroll?
Parents can join the PTSA, attend events, volunteer, and stay engaged through communication tools like SchoolMessenger and SchoolMAX.