MASC December 2023 Bulletin |
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Executive Board MeetingDecember 9, 2023 Options: Virtual or In-PersonCrofton High School (CRASC)Registration closes 11:59 PM, Thursday, Dec. 7th Calling all appointed staff, regional leaders, and passionate student leaders from across Maryland! Come to our December Executive Board Meeting at Crofton High School to engage with our Executive Board reports, new business regarding the Convention, a special service project (see below), and an exciting guest speaker from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This event is in-person or virtual. |
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SPECIAL SERVICE PROJECT: MASC is continuing the Stuffed Animal Drive from this year’s Fall Leadership Conference! Help us bring comfort and joy to those in need by bringing in new or gently used stuffed animals. These cuddly companions will be donated to shelters and daycares, spreading warmth and smiles to those who can use them most. The suggested maximum value of each stuffed animal is $10. We’ll also be making some personal cards for the children to go with the stuffed animals. Let’s come together and make a positive impact in our community! Students may register themselves for this event. Click on the picture above to read the detailed information and to register. |
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MASC 2023-2024 Membership DEADLINE DECEMBER 22 Student voice, leadership skills, networking, resources, recognition representation, friendships, and fun – are just a few of the reasons why your school's student council should join the Maryland Association of Student Councils (MASC). The process is exclusively online and only a school advisor or administrator may complete the application. Click on the picture to the left for information and the application. |
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Note: Schools must be a member of MASC to register for the MASC Convention in Ocean City (February 28-29-March 1). Registration for the Convention opens on January 3rd and closes on January 26th. |
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CALLING ALL MASC WORKSHOP PRESENTERS! MASC Convention: Feb. 28-29 and March 1, 2024 Ashore Resort & Beach Club (OC) Must be from a MASC Member School Deadline: 11:59 p.m., January 3, 2024 MASC needs student workshop presenters (preference given to certified presenters) for the Convention. There are opportunities to teach the pre-written "Civic of MASC" workshop that all delegates will attend and/or create your own workshop geared toward middle and high school students. Click on the picture to the right for full details. |
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Join us for a special half-hour Q&A session where you can ask any questions you may have about the options for Convention workshops. The Q&A sessions will take place on Dec. 4 at 4:00 p.m., Dec. 5 at 4:00 p.m., Dec. 6 at 8:00 p.m., and Dec. 7 at 8:00 p.m. Click on the workshop picture above for details. |
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The Mental Health Thought Box The MASC Mental Health Affairs Coordinators are seeking the input of students around the state to submit commentary and general topics that they feel are disregarded and/or need to be discussed more deeply. |
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These responses – particularly the most prevalent or frequent ones – will be the basis for facilitating conversations at future mental health events led by the Mental Health Affairs Coordinators, with the support of the Mental Health Committee. The hope of the Mental Health Affairs Coordinators is that the Thought Box brings forth notable change within the mental health sphere in Maryland. (Please click on the "Mental Health" graphic or the "Thougth Box" blue link to complete a Google form with your suggestions and topics. Please note that some school systems block Google items so you may need to use a personal devise to access this.) |
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MASC Committee OpportunitiesThere are still a few openings available for Eastern Shore Students MASC offers opportunities for students to get involved in committees that align with their interests and skills. With a particular need for representation from the Eastern Shore, MASC provides a platform for students to make a difference and learn more about leadership and advocacy. Click on the picture to the left to go to the MASC Committee website to read about a few of the opportunities still available. |
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December Green Goals are now included in theGreen Crabs Newsletter Enjoy the informative articles plus the Green Goals in the December edition of the GreenCrabs newsletter. "GreenCrabs," MASC's environmental newsletter has well-researched and relevant environmental news pieces to keep you informed, as well as other interesting features, like upcoming environmental service opportunities, scholarships, and more. Click here to subscribe so you get all future GreenCrabs editions sent straight to your mailbox. Happy reading! |
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MASC AwardsDeadline 5:00 p.m., March 8 MASC has awards and recognitions that are easy to access and it's never too early to start the nomination process. For those looking to nominate someone for the middle or high school principal and advisor of the year awards, be sure to go through your regional organization. Note: The Felix Simon Award for Leadership and Service is completed by the school and goes directly to MASC. This is a recognition award for school student councils. MASC awards and recognitions are only open to MASC MEMBER SCHOOLS. |
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Hosts Needed for MASC 2023-2024 Events Are you looking for an opportunity to showcase the leadership skills of your students and make a difference in the student community? Look no further than becoming an event host for MASC! Reach out to the MASC executive directors with any questions! Click on the picture to the right for details. |
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Buy a Gift Card for Yourself or a Friend AND
Donate Your Old Electronics Looking to make a difference in your community? Look no further than MASC! With two ongoing fundraisers, you can support MASC while shopping for gift cards from over 750+ brands or safely and sustainably dispose of old electronics. Give back, save money, and make a difference all at once. Your contributions are greatly appreciated. Click on the picture for detailed information. |
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2023-2024 MASC Calendar The MASC calendar is a valuable resource for student leaders and advisors to ensure they are aware of upcoming events and can plan accordingly. This calendar includes important dates such as conferences, meetings, and leadership opportunities. Click on the graphic to the right for the Google document or go to our Events and Conferences webpage. |
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Advocating for Civics in the Maryland General AssemblyVirtual Training Thursday, December 14th at 6:00 PM |
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Join this online training hosted by the Maryland Civic Education Coalition (MDCEC) to connect, learn, and build a plan to strengthen civic education and service learning in Maryland. The MDCEC Government Relations Working Group will provide an overview of the legislative process in Maryland and an update on our plans for #MDGA24. In addition, learn how to craft an effective personal message to carry to policy-makers in your community about the importance of civics. The 90-day General Assembly session begins on January 10th, so it's time to get started! CLick on the MD Civic Education Coalition logo to Register. |
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Community Conversation: Each year, the Maryland Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) hosts a Community Conversation to provide an opportunity for Maryland’s young people and youth stakeholders to identify the important issues impacting their lives. MYAC uses the issues raised during the forum to inform the Council’s Legislative Priorities for the 2024 Legislative Session and guide its advocacy efforts. Students are invited to the annual Community Conversation, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Saturday, December 16th, 2023. You can join MYAC in person at the Governor’s Coordinating Offices, located at 100 Community Place, Crownsville, MD 21032, or virtually on Zoom. No matter how you choose to attend, MYAC asks that participants RSVP for the event at https://partiful.com/e/EIv36szqpm2tLNEH1ahf Small Grant Project: For Fiscal Year 2024, MYAC was allocated funding from the Maryland Children's Cabinet to provide grants to youth-led organizations and projects across the state. The grant is open to youth-led, adult-supported projects which aligns with one of the Council’s priorities. Requested funds are no more than $1,000, and completed grant submissions include an application form, budget template, and W-9 form for the organization. All applications are due at 11:59 p.m., Friday, January 5th, 2024 (no deadline exceptions). Selected applicants will be notified prior to MYAC's meeting on January 20th, 2024, and must present their grant proposal before the Council for final selections. Learn more about the application and access the application documents using this link - https://goccp.maryland.gov/myac-grant-project/ |
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#ICANHELP NEWS FREE Webinar 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 5
Geared towards parents, advisors, & administrators As responsible individuals, parents, school administrators, and superintendents, it's our collective duty to protect our teens from this online digital trauma and abuse. Learn how teen sextortion is affecting families and how Digital4Good & Snapchat can be your allies in creating a safer digital future. Register for FREE HERE |
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Students: Free Webinar 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 08 Join #ICANHELP for an exclusive webinar designed to elevate your LinkedIn game. In just one hour, you'll have the unique opportunity to collaborate with a GenZ student and a team of LinkedIn-savvy mentors. During this interactive session, you'll work closely with professionals who specialize in branding, networking, and other essential LinkedIn skills. Open your LinkedIn account and make real-time improvements, right in the webinar! |
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Students - Plan Ahead: 7:00 p.m., Sunday, January 7 “Celebrate life. To truly live, celebrate each day of your life. Let each day be a festival of joy!” As the year starts, let's celebrate our lives through our mental wellness, happiness, and community. Join #ICANHELP as student panelists discuss the hunt for happiness that the new year can bring to us all. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • #ICANHELP - Free Monthly Download: Sextortion Defense - In 2022, law enforcement received over 7,000 reports related to the online exploitation of children and teens, resulting in more than 3,000 victims and causing the FBI to issue a national public safety alert. Digital4Good has developed a new resource to aid schools, parents, and caregivers in addressing sextortion and other forms of cyber-sexual harassment and abuse. Download it for free HERE. |
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • FREEBIE: Social Media Emergency Plan (#ICANHELP) - It’s finally here! When campus threats, cyberbullying, or other dangerous online behaviors arise, school leaders need a plan to take action and keep students and staff safe. #ICANHELP Social Media Emergency Plan equips schools with the tools and resources to handle social media incidents quickly, safely, and efficiently. Download our newest resource for free HERE! • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
SPECIAL OFFER: Social Media Engagement Course ($29.99) - Learn what and how to post on social media for your school or clubs. Our student marketing team teaches you the best practices, how to use analytics to grow your social media accounts, and the impact a good social media account can have on your campus! |
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The Explore.Act.Tell Program is a Family and Consumer Science aligned and fully-funded (free) service leadership program for students in grades 6-12. Register at exploreacttell.org/registration and students will join the fight against hunger by researching hunger security in their community, practicing skills needed to become good citizens through a project, and advocating for community involvement and service. Plus, students can enter projects into the competition for a chance to win a grant for a charity involving hunger and food insecurity. |
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Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: Are you looking for a way to build on your leadership skills, network, and help your community all while supporting cancer patients? The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is looking for student leaders to participate in the "Student Visionaries of the Year" campaign. This 7-week philanthropic leadership program is a great way to give back and provide you with lifelong skills. Recruitment is happening NOW and spots are limited, email Andrew.Steckel@lls.org if you are interested in hearing more. Check out this short video! DEADLINE: end of December - the program starts in January. |
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MyImpact Challenge: Deadline: 11:59 p.m., May 19, 2024 MyImpact Challenge is a civic engagement contest that promotes and fosters a robust understanding of citizenship to get students active in their communities now! Student service projects can win up to $10,000, with $40,000 in total prizes available to students and teachers. Submission is open to US citizens and US-based young people who are between the ages of 13 and 19 and enrolled in middle or high school on January 1, 2024.
Flyer (pdf) |
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The Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS) invites students to apply for the 2023-2024 student focus group, Students Advocating for Safety (SAS). Joining SAS will empower students to play a vital role in shaping student-centered recommendations for the Advisory Board and influence the Subcabinet's decision-making process. Becoming a member will also allow students to learn more about the diversity of the current school and students' safety-related issues, develop government relations and leadership skills, and grant them first-hand exposure to the inner workings of state agencies and boards. Applications are open year-round. Documentary Trailer & Resources: Hiding in Plain Sight: Ken Burns presents this youth mental illness documentary film by Erik and Christopher Ewers. Work2BeWell is creating 24+ lessons to go with the film that will be released this fall. It’s free to watch on PBS with a school email or a few bucks on Amazon Prime. Work2BeWell: is a digital wellness program focused on positively impacting the emotional well-being of teens and promoting mental health. Check out a ton of free resources! Questions? support@work2bewell.org https://work2bewell.org/ Also, be sure to bookmark and listen to Work2BeWell Podcasts! From conversations on social justice and mental health activism to navigating digital learning or supporting mental health during the holidays, we explore topics that build meaningful dialogue and student activation around mental health. Listen on Spotify or Apple Music. NA4SA Resources: The National Association for Student Activities (NA4SA) is a GREAT advisor-focused organization offering free webinars, free resources, and conferences. Also, check out the 2022-2023 recorded free Seminar Series! Follow the National Association 4 Student Activities on social media platforms to connect to more individuals across the country working in student activities.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/paradeofideas Twitter: https://twitter.com/paradeofideas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paradeofideas/ |
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MD State Financial Aid Programs: The Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) at the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) provides a number of state grants, scholarships, and loan assistance repayment programs for eligible Maryland residents. Click on the article title above for details. Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): These programs provide grants, work-study, and loan funds to students attending college or career school. The FAFSA form must be submitted by 11:59 p.m., on June 30, 2024. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m., on Sept. 14, 2024 FOSSI (Future of STEM Scholars Initiative) is now accepting applications for 2024. The application period will end on January 31, 2024. Underrepresented students interested in making an impact and innovation through science, engineering, and math. This national industry-wide program seeks to increase the number of underrepresented professionals in the STEM workforce by providing scholarships to students pursuing preferred STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). |
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Horatio Alger Scholarship CURRENT JUNIORS! OPENS December 15th The Horatio Alger Scholarship Program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. While many programs are directed primarily to recognizing academic achievement or leadership potential, the Horatio Alger Association seeks students who have exhibited determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity, as well as have critical financial need. Click on the information to the left for full information. |
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Here's to December - a Month of...
"• Celebrating how far we have come • Reflecting on all we have learned this year • Knowing we are not alone if we are grieving
or hurting. • Remember that even though there are 100
things to do, we are not wrong for needing
time to rest and regroup. • Being grateful for things both great
and small. • Believing that some of the best gifts we
can give are time, empathy, and love." Morgan Harper Nicholas Tis the season to be jolly and it's also okay not to be. During this holiday, take some time for yourself to reset, restart, and reenergize because self-care is not selfish. Despite the hustle and bustle of the season, we wish you plenty of moments filled with love and laughter and sending you good vibes for the new year ahead! |
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If this Bulletin was forwarded to you and you would like to receive it directly, please sign up with the link on this page. If you are a student who has graduated, please email Karen.Crawford@mdstudentcouncils to be moved to a MASC alumni list. If you are no longer an Advisor, thank you so much for your past work with our student leaders in Maryland. Please email Karen.Crawford@mdstudentcouncils and send the name and email of your replacement. |
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Maryland Association of Student Councils (MASC) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. |
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