Dear Team MCPS,

Watching the news in recent weeks has been more than unsettling and disheartening … for many, it has been heavy, painful, and even traumatic. We are seeing families separated in public view, lives lost amid unrest, and racist language and imagery targeting the former President of the United States and First Lady, as well as, other leaders and communities of color. These events are not abstract. They land in real ways for our colleagues, our students, and our neighbors whose lived experiences are shaped by the very identities being targeted.

I am so sorry that any of us have had to see any of this. These visuals of hate and despair do not represent our values. Let me be clear: racism, hate, and dehumanization have no place in Montgomery County Public Schools.

Now, perhaps more than ever, we need to be crystal clear about standing united with our students and their families.

Our district committed to confronting racism directly through the Anti-Racist System Audit and the recommendations that followed. That work is not symbolic. It is an ongoing promise and work in progress about who we are and who we strive to become … a system that sees the dignity and humanity of every student and staff member, especially those who have historically been marginalized.

Consequently, I am writing for a few reasons. 

First, I think it is important for there to be reminders from time to time about our values and where leadership stands in relation to our values. We are guided by equity, dignity, and respect for all. That does not change based on headlines. It cannot change based on headlines.

Second, I want to thank you for showing up - this is a tough time to do what we do and by you showing up day in and day out, it sends a clear message about our investment in the future (and our vision for the future doesn't look like the world today). Showing up every day for our students creating safe, welcoming, affirming classrooms and offices matters more than ever. Your consistency, care, and professionalism provide stability for young people who may be confused, afraid, or processing what they are seeing in the world. And yet you show up each day, many of you in the midst of your own racialized trauma and secondary trauma. This is courageous - thank you!

Third, I want to share a brief video message and resources that reaffirm who we are as a school community and clarifies our roles as MCPS employees during these times of heightened concern - specifically as it relates to immigration enforcement. With amplified immigration enforcement likely to occur in Maryland and Montgomery County, it is essential we are better prepared by knowing our respective roles, responsibilities, and how each of us can help best.

The video outlines practical guidance, including:

• How to support students, maintain calm, and minimize disruption

• What to do if you encounter federal immigration or non-local law enforcement on school grounds

• What not to do, including avoiding interference or engagement, sharing student information, or acting outside established procedures

• How to you can help best by separating personal civic activity from professional responsibilities

• How to protect student privacy and refer families to appropriate resources

MCPS does not consent to immigration enforcement operations on school property without a valid warrant or emergency circumstances, nor will we ever invite immigration enforcement to any of our schools. If law enforcement activity were to occur on school grounds, school administrators, security staff, and MCPS Legal Services would lead the response.

Along with the video, a one-page guidance document outlining key roles and responsibilities is attached. There are also some age-appropriate lessons and educational materials that can help when having conversations about this with students. Please take some time to review; we are also asking principals to review this information with school-based staff. When each of us understands and fulfills our role, we help ensure our schools remain safe and stable for our students and for one another.

Finally, a reminder to please take care of yourself. The images and rhetoric circulating online and on television can take a toll. If you need support, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available at (240) 740-6500 or this website and offers confidential counseling and resources. 

This is not easy, but we will navigate this together, grounded in our shared values and in our commitment to students. Our children are watching how adults respond in moments like this. Because of you, they are learning what courage, compassion, unreasonable hospitality, and integrity look like in action. Thank you for making this community a great place and thank you for being part of Team MCPS.

Take Care,
Thomas