Board of Education Update:
November 22, 2024

The Board of Education took action on the CIP and discussed the boundary study process during the November 21 meeting. We are preparing for a transition of members on December 2, but first, we wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving.

Board Approves $169.9 Million Request for FY26 Capital Budget, Including New Schools and Infrastructure Enhancements

The Board approved the Superintendent’s Recommended Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Capital Budget and Amendments to the FY 2025-2030 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) totaling $1.853 billion during the six year CIP period.

The FY26 Capital Budget appropriation request totals $169.9 million and includes an additional $21.6 million from the county to address revenue shortfalls. 

The budget and amendments focus on providing for the completion of four projects:

• Charles W. Woodward High School - including completing the auditorium

• Crown High School - new construction including completing the auditorium, stadium, and other classroom spaces

• Northwood High School - including the stadium and outdoor spaces

• Loiederman Middle School - including critical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning infrastructure

The Board appreciates everyone who participated in the two CIP public hearings held earlier this month. The time and effort to advocate for students, staff, and our schools is a valuable part of the process.

The next step in the capital budget process is for the County Council to review the Board’s appropriation request. Final approval is expected in late winter.

Watch the presentation to learn more about the CIP.

Board Considering Vendor for Upcoming Boundary Studies

MCPS will engage in a large-scale boundary study involving 19 of the 26 MCPS high schools and their associated middle schools. 

The boundary study is needed to determine the boundaries for Crown High School, Damascus High School, and Charles W. Woodward High School. It is also an opportunity to alleviate space needs across the district. The Board will continue its consideration at the December 5, 2024 Board Business meeting.

MCPS recommended vendor, FLO Analytics, to perform the upcoming boundary studies for the Crown and Woodward high school projects. During the discussion, the Board requested clarity on the program analysis aspect of the boundary study and to better understand how the vendor will meet the Board’s standards for inclusive and representative community engagement throughout the process. The Board is expected to take action on the recommended vendor at the December 5 business meeting.

Both of these boundary studies impact a large number of schools. The Board encourages families living in designated clusters to stay informed and involved in the process.

For more information, including the scope of the two boundary studies, watch the presentation or view this document (pdf).

Board of Education Swearing-In Ceremony Set for December 2, Welcoming New Members and Honoring Retiring Ones

The Board of Education will formally install three new members and recognize the contributions of outgoing members at a swearing-in ceremony December 2. 

Rita Montoya, Laura Stewart, and Natalie Zimmerman were elected to the Board in November. Montoya joins the Board as an at-large member, Stewart represents District 4, and Zimmerman represents District 2. They will be officially sworn-in at the December 2 event and their first business meeting will be December 5.

The contributions of outgoing board members Rebecca Smondrowski, Shebra Evans, and Lynne Harris who have served on the Board for 12, eight, and four years respectively, will also be recognized and celebrated at the December 2 ceremony. 

The swearing-in ceremony will take place Monday, December 2, 4:00 p.m. at 15 W. Gude Drive and is open to the public. It will also be livestreamed on the MCPS website. 

The Board will elect officers and approve committee assignments at the December 5 business meeting.

A Message of Gratitude from the Board of Education: Reflecting on Community Support This Thanksgiving

As we pause to reflect on all that we are thankful for, we are especially grateful for the unwavering support of our community. The residents of Montgomery County are deeply engaged in their schools and in the success of MCPS as a whole. You advocate for our students and staff, inspiring us to continually improve and do our very best. You welcome us to be part of meaningful events, celebrations, and showcases of student achievement.

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve on the Board of Education in such a dynamic and diverse community.

Wishing you all a joyful and peaceful Thanksgiving.

Upcoming Meetings

• December 2, Monday - Board Member Swearing In Ceremony

• December 5, Thursday - Business Meeting

Visit our webpage to view agendas, meeting materials, and watch live or recordings.

Opportunities for Engagement

The public is encouraged to engage with the Board. Learn about the ways to participate on our website.

Stay Connected

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Email us at boe@mcpsmd.org