Arnold Elementary is located in suburban Arnold, Maryland, close to Annapolis, and to the Bay Bridge. The 43 year old building houses 468 students from 28 different neighborhoods in grades K-5. Our vision; “Together, we will develop academic leaders and socially responsible citizens”, is shared by staff and families alike.   A Hallmark of Arnold culture is a high degree of staff collaboration and support. We are a Professional Development School, partnered with the College of Notre Dame. During the past ten years we have mentored nearly 50 student interns, many of whom are teaching successfully in Anne Arundel, Howard, Charles and Montgomery counties. We also participate in the Anne Arundel Community College TEACH program, hosting fieldwork students who are considering a career in education. A majority of staff members hold advanced degrees; a number of them are pursuing additional certification in subject areas such as Reading, Science, Mathematics, or Administration.   The Arnold PTA has raised more than $80,000.00 during the past two years to support our technology initiatives. Currently, we have 8 smartboards, as well as document cameras in every classroom, including Vocal Music and Art. The after-school enrichment program sponsored by PTA has been recognized twice by the County Volunteer Office in the past 4 years as exemplary, with offerings which appeal to a variety of student interests. Volunteerism is extremely high; our parents are visible throughout the academic day in classrooms and in hallways.   The outstanding Fine Arts program offered at Arnold resulted in our designation two years ago as an Arts Integration Elementary school, one of only three in Anne Arundel County. Teachers at all levels infuse both Visual and Performing Arts into content area lessons. More than 60% of our 3, 4 and 5th graders participate in our instrumental music program.   Our mascot is the Terrapin, because of our 6-year recognition as a Chesapeake Connections School. As part of the program we have raised 6 pairs of terrapins, planted bay grasses and maintained a rain garden. Students at each grade level are involved in some form of environmental stewardship. Many of them participate in a variety of co-curricular programs, including the 24-club math challenge and Young Authors competition. Our Black Saga teams have finished amongst the top ten teams in the state for the past nine years.   Arnold students arrive each day ready to “Believe, Achieve, Excel”, our school motto.  We are confident that, as they depart for middle school and beyond that they demonstrate intellectual curiosity, task commitment, ethical citizenship, and community involvement.   Rosemary Biggart Principal Arnold Elementary