MCPS Students Begin Construction on 44th Young American House

MCPS students in the Construction Trades Foundation program are hard at work on the early phase of construction for the 44th Young American House in Silver Spring. This exciting project highlights the skills and dedication of our construction technology students, who are bringing this home to life from the ground up. Check out the latest photos from the build and get an inside look at the craftsmanship that’s already underway. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes glimpse—head to our website for the full story and more pictures.

Understanding the MCPS Operating Budget

MCPS has created a new Operating Budget Dashboard to offer an accessible, user-friendly and transparent way for all stakeholders to explore the operating budget.

Take a moment to watch the video below for more information on the dashboard.

MCPS is hosting a series of listening sessions to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget. Join MCPS leadership to explore how every dollar is allocated within the school system, learn about upcoming changes and share your insights.

Your voice is important and we encourage you to ask questions and engage in the conversation. Upcoming forums: 

• Monday,  Nov. 18,  6:30–7:30 p.m., Spanish session through Facebook Live on MCPS en Español Facebook 

• Thursday, Nov. 21, 6:30–8 p.m.,  Clarksburg High School, 22500 Wims Road in Clarksburg. RSVP

Did you miss the first Budget Forum ? You can watch it here.

Winter Weather Is Coming (Maybe): Are You Ready?

Winter is near and MCPS has you covered! Visit our Stay Connected website for tools to stay in touch and how to get real-time information on weather delays and closures. Stay safe this winter! 

Don’t Miss the Superintendent’s Video

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/ugfu7nIDpuk 

We Need Your Feedback for the School Calendar!

MCPS continues to develop the 2025–2026 Traditional School Year Calendar. The district is seeking additional feedback from staff, families, students and the community. Take a moment to give us your feedback on Round 2 of the survey. The survey will close on Sunday, Dec. 1.

 Click here to access the survey. 

Get Ready for End of Course Exams 

The End of Course (EOC) exams for Biology B and National, State, and Local (NSL) Government B courses are approaching. The testing window is open from Dec. 9, 2024, to Jan. 22, 2025. These exams count for 20% of students’  second semester course grades. 

Why It Matters:

The EOC exams are state-mandated assessments that evaluate student knowledge from both Semester A and Semester B of Biology and NSL Government courses. It directly impacts the final grade of the student. 

Where to Learn More:

Visit the MCPS Website to read about the EOC process and find frequently asked questions here. 

Student Opportunities

Participate in the National C-SPAN Documentary Competition

The National C-SPAN Documentary Competition provides students in 6th through 12th grades an opportunity to think critically about important societal issues. Students are asked to create a short video documentary on a topic related to the theme, "Your Message to the President."

Details:

• Video Requirements: Students must create a 5–6 minute video documentary.

• Format: Students may compete individually or in groups of 2-3. Grades 6-8 compete in the Middle School category, and grades 9-12 compete in the High School category.

• Submission Deadline: Monday, Jan. 20, 2025.

• Prizes: Cash prizes are awarded to the top 150 student documentaries.

What's Next:

• Submit your entry by the end of day on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025.

Where to Learn More:

For more information, including how to enter and the competition rules, you can visit the official C-SPAN StudentCam website.

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Apply to the Rales-O’Neill Scholarship 

Applications for the Rales-O’Neill Scholarship, offered by the Montgomery County Public Schools Educational Foundation (MCPSEF), are open now for high school seniors. The scholarships provide $10,000 toward future studies and will be awarded to two hundred students.

Applications must be submitted by Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. For more information on eligibility and rules, visit the MCPSEF website.

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MPSSAA Football Playoff Tickets On Sale!

Get ready for the action! Tickets for the Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA)  Football State Quarterfinals will go on sale at noon on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

Don’t miss out on the excitement—mark your calendars and grab your tickets to cheer on your team!

Day of Service to the Environment! 

Join the Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Education Center for a day of service from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23. Families of all skill levels are invited to work on environmental-friendly projects to improve and beautify the center. Students who participate with their parents can earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours. Sign up in advance to participate and make a difference!