Board of Education Update:
April 17, 2026

At its April 16 work session, the Montgomery County Board of Education reviewed a range of issues shaping the 2026–2027 school year, including proposed calendar adjustments, updates on school safety and security, a newly proposed policy for background screening employees and potential changes to student meal prices. The Board also discussed the M.E.C.C.A. Business Learning Institute as part of its ongoing review of the charter school.

Also in this update: a new EdTalk episode highlighting women leaders in education and information on the upcoming Student Member of the Board (SMOB) election.

2026-2027 Calendar | Safety and Security | Policy GCC | Meal Prices | MBLI Update | EdTalk | SMOB 49 Candidates

Proposed 2026–2027 School Calendar Amendments

The Board is considering amendments to the 2026–2027 school calendar to align with updated requirements from the Maryland State Department of Education regarding inclement weather make-up days.

The proposal would move the first day of school to Aug. 20, 2026, and the last day to June 11, 2027. The revised calendar includes designated make-up days, such as Dec. 23, and several days in mid-June, to ensure instructional time is completed before the Juneteenth holiday.

Community members will have opportunities to provide feedback through surveys and committee meetings ahead of the Board’s scheduled vote on April 30, 2026.

Safety and Security Updates

District officials presented an update on safety and security efforts across Montgomery County Public Schools.

The discussion highlighted enhancements to physical security at school entrances and continued implementation of restorative practices aimed at improving student behavior and school climate. Board members emphasized that maintaining safe learning environments for students and staff remains a top priority.

Watch the April 16 meeting presentation.

Stricter Background Screening Policy

Board members also reviewed the new proposed Policy GCC, which governs background screening for employees, contractors and volunteers.

This policy aims to strengthen and streamline the vetting process to ensure all individuals with access to students meet rigorous safety standards.

Possible Changes to Meal Prices for Fiscal Year 2027

MCPS proposed changes to student meal prices for Fiscal Year 2027. Staff cited increasing operational and food costs as the primary drivers behind the recommended adjustments, noting that any changes would help sustain nutritional standards, while maintaining program stability.

M.E.C.C.A. Business Learning Institute

The Board received presentations from district administration and leadership of the M.E.C.C.A. Business Learning Institute (MBLI) regarding the Superintendent’s recommendation to revoke MBLI’s charter. Members reviewed information presented by the school regarding corrective actions and heard MCPS administrative and performance-based justifications for its recommendation. The matter remains under consideration as part of the district’s broader review of the charter school. View the documents provided to the Board here. 

EdTalk: Women Leaders in Education

Don’t miss the latest episode of EdTalk: Women Leaders in Education. Hosted by Board of Education President Grace Rivera-Oven, this compelling and candid conversation features Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges, and Karla Silvestre, At-Large Member of the Montgomery County Board of Education. Together, they share powerful insights on the impact of women in educational leadership, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the importance of mentoring the next generation. Watch the new episode.

Who Will Become MCPS’ 49th Student Member of the Board?

Meet your finalists for the 49th Student Member of the Board (SMOB)!

In this candidate forum, Leul Dawit and Reemey Ghermay face off to share their visions for MCPS. From tackling AI in classrooms and school safety to fixing infrastructure and expanding student rights, see which candidate will best represent your voice on the Board of Education.

Watch the full video to hear:

• Q&A: Their take on the $3.7 billion budget and school walkouts.

• The Lightning Round: Favorite school rivalries and the best cafeteria food.

• Closing Arguments: Why they believe they deserve your vote.

Election Day is Wednesday, April 22. Watch now and be an informed voter!

Upcoming Meetings

Tuesday, April 28, Committee on Special Populations (10:00 a.m.)

Thursday, April 30, Board Business Meeting (4:00 p.m) 

Thursday, May 7, Board Work Session (12:00 p.m.)

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Email us at boe@mcpsmd.org