All Together Now, All for Our Students, Staff and Community:

What a Great First Week of School

September 2, 2022

Dear MCPS Community,

Our first week of school for the 2022-2023 school year has gone by so fast. There has been so much to celebrate and so much for which I am thankful. I have witnessed exciting and intentional instruction, deep engagement in our classrooms, and staff and students energized for the new year. With the cloud of COVID-19 receding, it is refreshing to see such positive energy in our schools as we continue and expand our focus on academic excellence.

New for this year, the entire leadership team, representing all offices and functions, has collectively visited nearly all of our schools this week. Each day we review what we've seen, looking for areas of improvement or that need immediate attention. We are working to address every issue that has  been identified. Yes, while there is work to be done, there has been far more to celebrate in our first few days of school. We have amazing staff in every classroom, every bus has been running, our technical systems are sound and all of our programs and activities are underway, including wellness programs for our students and staff. Together, we are so hopeful for the potential of this school year.

It is important that I take a moment to remind all of us about matters of safety. Unfortunately, one child from an elementary school in Montgomery Village was struck by a car when exiting her school bus. She sustained non-life-threatening injuries and we feel for her and her family. This tragic situation serves as a reminder that we must say be careful and know the rules. When a bus has stopped, the lights are flashing and the stop arm and stop signs are out, you must stop. No amount of time saved in your travels by passing a stopped school bus is worth the injury or potential loss of life that may result. I ask that you share this information with your neighbors and friends.

Despite that particularly difficult story, it remains true that our school visits affirm that we are doing the right work and our students are learning. I have met with school staff, I have sat with your children at lunch, I have been in classrooms and spoken with countless students, and I have seen teaching and learning in action. Our students are so precious and excited to be back.

As I mentioned, the leadership team made school visits as well, including checking in at our bus depots, our food and nutrition center, our operational offices and so much more. We are "All together now, all for our students, staff and community".

In partnership,

Dr. Monifa B. McKnight
Superintendent of Schools