Good morning family!! I pray everyone is in good health and in good spirits. I know everyone is short for time especially now that the children are back in school so we’re going to get straight to the point. In case you missed the last blog, Baltimore County Schools resumed school on September 9th. To my great disappointment, Baltimore County Schools continue to be virtual. That is despite governor Hogan’s statement on August 27th starting that all public schools in Maryland could safely reopen. Nevertheless the struggle of being a mom, a special education teacher, an occupational therapist and a speech pathologist continues. BUT (yes in all CAPS) there is hope. As of the posting of this blog Baltimore County School District superintendent Dr. Williams announced teachers, school staff to be back in buildings by Oct. 19; small groups of students will be back in classrooms by Nov. 13. Thank you Jesus!!
In addition, county executive Olszewsik announced on 9/17/20 that he “has allocated up to $7 million to provide childcare subsidies for working families with children ages 5 to 12. The program aims to support low-income working parents who are not able to stay home to manage their children’s remote learning. Eligible families will receive a subsidy of up to $250 per week per child to cover the cost of care at any childcare provider licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits where all parents or guardians in the household are employed will be eligible.” Can the church say AMEN! My people (in an African accent ??) we are going places. Finally I can see the light at the end of this covid tunnel.
For now we’re moving forward with virtual learning. It has been an interesting transition with some bumps along the way but Jayson and Emma are starting to get in rhythm. I am sure my situation is not unique as others who are having to sacrifice financially in order to be available to facilitate their children’s learning experiences. So things are tight but we give God the praise for meeting our every need.
Encouraging Words
Let me leave you with some encouraging words. Philippians 4:4 says “rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” In this tiring season we all need a little reminder to rejoice in everything, even the sleepless nights, the meltdowns, the financial strains, all the stresses…..REJOICE! I pray this little bit of encouragement will remind us to look out for the “small” miracles that happen everyday.
Stay blessed family!
Be encouraged always by meditating on God’s words daily.
With lots of love,
M.J.