My First Week in MCPS—As Superintendent

A Message from Dr. Thomas Taylor

July 3, 2024

Dear MCPS Families,

It is Wednesday, and today is my third day as your superintendent of schools. On Monday, I wrote to MCPS staff reflecting on my first day, and today, before the July 4th holiday, I want to touch base with all of you. You may have heard me say that this is my dream job, and it is. Returning to the community where I grew up, went to school and now serve is exciting and professionally rewarding. I have already had the chance to visit a few schools, witness summer school teaching and learning and see staff hard at work preparing for the new school year. 

I have also been reading the feedback many of you shared on the Superintendent’s Survey we sent to you on June 12. It’s a lot, but rest assured that whether you shared a concern or a good idea, we will review all submissions as it will support my decision-making and leadership in the coming weeks and months. This is your school district and what you say matters to me!

To that end, I would love to hear from you if you haven't shared your thoughts already. I am keeping the feedback form open until 4 p.m. on Friday, July 5, so there is still time to share your thoughts and ideas. Here is the link to the form. Transparency is really important to me, so I am also sharing the feedback that we receive. By necessity, we have removed any information that identifies individual schools, staff, students or families, contact information or other inappropriate language or information. I firmly believe that sharing responses, concerns and questions is an important effort to be transparent and open. 

My aim is to keep the lines of communication open between us as we move Montgomery County and its school system forward together.

As important as listening is, it is just a first step. Action is equally important. That's why I want to remind you about the Ask MCPS phone line (240-740-3000) and the MCPS Spanish phone line (240-740-2845). I've asked our staff to treat the calls and questions we receive on these lines as Quick Response Requests. When you call, our staff will ask for your name and contact information and then direct your questions to the appropriate office or school. You can expect a response within 72 hours (business days) as we work to address your concerns.

As your new superintendent, I am optimistic about the upcoming school year and our very bright future together. I am eager to work with you, our amazing staff and the broader community to make great things happen for our kids. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!

I wish you a safe and enjoyable Independence Day.

Sincerely,

Thomas W. Taylor, Ed.D., M.B.A.
MCPS Superintendent of Schools