Things to Know

Update on Academic Program Analysis, Region Realignment and Family Information Sessions

MCPS is taking important, coordinated steps to provide every student access to high-quality programs and learning opportunities — no matter where they live. The Academic Program Analysis and Boundary Studies are not separate efforts, but part of MCPS’ larger commitment to align planning and resources so students are challenged and ready for their future. Damascus High School (previously in Region 5) and Quince Orchard High School (previously in Region 6) will switch regions. Read more and learn why this matters.

Boundary Study Options Meetings Begin Oct. 6

Join us for a boundary study options meeting in October. These public information meetings will offer the refined boundary options reflecting community input, for the reopening of Charles W. Woodward High School, the opening of Crown High School and the expansion of Damascus High School for the 2027-2028 school year. See the meetings list.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: The First Latina High School Principal in MCPS

When Alicia Deeny was announced as the principal of Richard Montgomery High School, she was the first woman ever appointed at Richard Montgomery. She was also the first Latina high school principal in MCPS. Deeny is now in her fifth year at the helm of Richard Montgomery. Born in Washington, D.C. to a mother from Puerto Rico and an Irish father from New Jersey, Deeny and her sister were surrounded by loving grandparents and many aunts and uncles who regaled them with stories of their ancestry and backgrounds. Deeny couldn’t get enough. Read more.

2026-2027 FAFSA Is Now Open; Apply Early

The 2026-2027 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open. Maryland students and families are encouraged to complete it early, no matter what postsecondary education plans they are considering. By submitting the FAFSA, students know how much financial aid they qualify for through state, federal and institutional programs. Read more. 

Applications to High School Regional/Countywide Programs Open Soon, Due Nov. 7

MCPS students have a range of opportunities available at their local high school, as well as regional and countywide application programs. Beginning on or about Wednesday, Oct. 8,Grade 8 students will have the opportunity to apply for the regional/countywide programs using the high school common application found in ParentVUE. Additionally, students in Grades 9-11 may apply for part-time career-readiness programs at various locations throughout the county. Applications for the upper grades will be open beginning Monday, Oct. 6. Links to interest forms:

Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11

Information sessions are going on now for students and families. All dates can be found on the special programs webpage. The deadline to apply is 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7. Learn more.

Now You Know: Boundary Study and Programs Analysis

MCPS has important opportunities coming for you to share your voice and shape the future of our schools. First, there’s the Boundary Study, which will examine school boundaries to balance enrollment, use space effectively and ensure equitable access for every student. The district is also hosting virtual information sessions on the Academic Programs Analysis, a review of the proposed region's plan and programs, to provide each student access to programs that meet their needs. Read more. 

Watch in Spanish | French | Chinese | Vietnamese | Amharic | Korean | Portuguese

Have You Submitted Your Free and Reduced-price Meals Application Yet?

Apply online for meal benefits today! If you haven’t submitted your household’s FARMS application, now is the time. To receive this benefit, a new FARMS application must be completed every school year. MCPS encourages all families who may be eligible to apply. Submit the online FARMS application through MySchoolApps (translations available). Only one application is needed for all students in a household.

For more information about additional benefits, how to videos, and frequently asked questions, visit the Department of Food and Nutrition Services website.

Need SSL Hours? Look No Further!

As a reminder, all MCPS students must earn 75 Student Service Learning (SSL) hours to graduate from high school.

Check out these October opportunities. A full list of in-person and virtual opportunities, reminders and updates are available on the SSL website. 

BlackRock Offers Free Arts Program to Elementary Students

BlackRock Center for the Arts is offering a free art and social/emotional learning class for students in kindergarten through 5th grade, starting this Saturday, Oct. 4 and running through Dec. 13. The class will combine art with literacy and vocabulary. Learn more and register.

BlackRock is located at 12901 Town Commons Drive in Germantown.

The Latest from the News Page

• Celebrating National Principals’ Month: Spotlight on Stacey Brown, principal at William Tyler Page Elementary School

• Young Hero Honored: Jefferson Reyes, a student at Rolling Terrace Elementary School, was honored by the county for pulling a young child to safety during dismissal in October 2024.

• Building Staff Unity: Twice a week, the pickleball courts at Gaithersburg High School transform into a hub of energy and laughter for a growing group of staff members who connect, compete and unwind.

• Cheers to 100 Years!: Montgomery Blair High School kicked off its centennial celebration on Sept. 26.

• Students Leading Change: Now in its 20th year, the Minority Scholars Program was recently honored during the Montgomery County Education Association Gala.

• Sharing the Warmth: Operation Warm and Warner Brothers provided nearly 400 new coats—one to every student at Kemp Mill Elementary School.