1. Upcoming Operating Budget Forums on Oct.19, Oct. 25 and Nov. 14 

MCPS is hosting a series of forums to learn more about the process for the 2024–2025 operating budget. Join us for a discussion with MCPS leadership and an opportunity to engage in breakout sessions. Events will be held on the following dates:

• TONIGHT, Thursday, Oct. 19, 6:30–8 p.m., virtual forum. Click here to attend. This event will be livestreamed on the MCPS homepage. RSVP.

• Wednesday, Oct. 25, 6:30–8 p.m., Damascus High School, 25921 Ridge Road in Damascus. RSVP.

• Tuesday, Nov. 14, time to be determined, Walter Johnson High School, 6400 Rock Spring Drive in Bethesda. RSVP.

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2. Applications for High School Regional/Countywide Special Programs

Grade 8 students can apply to Regional/Countywide Special Programs using the high school common application found in ParentVUE. Additionally, students in Grades 9-11 may apply for career readiness programs. Information sessions will be available for students and families, and all dates can be found on the special programs webpage.

Applications are due by Friday, Nov. 3. Programs-At-A-Glance, eligibility, frequently asked questions and October open house dates are available on this website.

NEW this year: The Leadership Academy for Social Justice (LASJ) at Walt Whitman High School is open to all rising 9th graders. Watch the video.

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3. Board Seeks Public Comments on Policy IJA

The Board of Education is seeking comments on proposed amendments to Policy IJA, School Counseling Programs and Services. Draft amendments to Policy IJA have been available for comment since April 26, 2023, and the comment period will close on Nov. 6, 2023. A description of the changes, draft changes and public comment forms are available on the Policies for Public Comment webpage.  Language translations are available.

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4. District Events and Opportunities 

On Saturday, Oct. 21:

• The STEAM Festival will be held from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wheaton High School, 12401 Dalewood Drive in Silver Spring.

• The Girls’ Summit will be held from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at Clarksburg High School, 22500 Wims Road in Clarksburg. RSVP

• Col. Zadok Magruder High School is hosting the Marching Band Showcase at 1 p.m., 5939 Muncaster Mill Road in Rockville. PLEASE NOTE: In case of inclement weather, a message will be posted on the MCPS website by 9:30 a.m. if the event is canceled.

Mental Health Awareness Week Oct. 30–Nov. 4

From 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Richard Montgomery High School, former professional football player turned mental health expert and advocate, Dr. Jay Barnett, will speak to students about the importance of mental health, breaking down stigma and seeking help. Students who attend can earn SSL Hours.  Read more about Mental Health Awareness Week events. 

Out-of-School Time, Earn SSL Hours 

Calling high school students: Join Us Nov. 1 for Environmental Volunteer Day at Gaithersburg High School, 101 Education Blvd. in Gaithersburg. 

County Student Contests, Earn SSL Hours

• A chance to win $1,000: Speak Up, Save a Life PSA Contest 

• Know a Student Interested in Public Policy? Enter the Councilmember for a Day Contest

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5. Bright Spots this Week 

October is National Principals Month. Thank you to all principals for all they do for students, staff, teachers, and school communities. 

Congratulations to Mrs. Barbara Escobar, principal at Neelsville Middle School. Escobar recently received the Hispanic Educator of the Year at the Hispanic Leadership Awards Gala.  

The Latina Legacy Conference brought together more than 300 scholars to learn about opportunities and resources to succeed in their academic and personal lives. 

Families, MCPS alumni and community members came together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Outdoor Environmental Education Programs. These programs provide hands-on science instruction to all MCPS students.