Board of Education Update:
September 11, 2026

At its September 10 work session, the Montgomery County Board of Education (Board) reviewed MCPS’ start of the new school year, assessed progress on the district’s five-year strategic plan, and considered updates to Board governance. Key discussions focused on strengthening classroom instruction, improving communication and support for families, tracking student progress more effectively, ensuring teachers have the resources to teach all students and that resources are reaching students who need them most. The Board also recognized the work of more than 25,000 MCPS staff members and received an update on community investments through the Montgomery County Public Schools Educational Foundation.

Opening of Schools | Strategic Plan Progress Update | Educational Foundation | Board Handbook Updates

Schools Are Off to a Strong Start

MCPS provided an update on the 2026–27 school year, highlighting efforts to strengthen instruction, keep families informed, and support student success.

Key takeaways:

• New math curriculum and simpler family resources, including weekly updates and “Refrigerator Guides.”

• PSAT 8/9 for 8th graders will provide a low-stakes reading and math check-in to help inform future course choices. No studying or test preparation is needed.

• “No cell, bell to bell” continues districtwide to protect instructional time.

• School safety remains a priority, with ongoing reviews of measures such as perimeter fencing and security cameras.

• The Board recognized the 25,000+ MCPS staff members supporting students and schools across the district and emphasized stronger representation of students with special needs in district communications.

With enrollment approximately 2,000 students below projections, the district is also closely monitoring its financial planning for the year ahead.

View Opening Presentation | Watch Discussion Segment

Progress Update: 2025–2030 Strategic Plan

MCPS shared an update on Future Ready 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, highlighting progress in academics, college and career readiness, school operations, and staffing.

Some highlights include strong math growth, increased Algebra II completion, progress in financial literacy and CTE/dual enrollment, and fewer preventable bus accidents. The district also outlined how it is adapting to changes in Maryland’s testing and accountability systems.

Board members discussed the data and asked about opportunities to strengthen reporting, better understand student experiences, and track progress in areas such as school climate, discipline, and college and career pathways.

Read the Presentation Progress Update: 2025–2030 Strategic Plan

Making an Impact Across MCPS

The Board heard from the Montgomery County Public Schools Educational Foundation (MCPSEF) about its funding, grants, and plans for the 2026–27 school year.

MCPSEF supports educational opportunities across MCPS, with a focus on underrepresented, underserved, and economically disadvantaged students. In FY26, the Foundation awarded 89 educator grants and provided support for programs ranging from science, technology,engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and financial literacy to family engagement, music, and student life skills. More than 75% of its grants and fiscal sponsorships supported schools with higher-than-average Free and Reduced Meals (FARMS) rates.

Looking ahead, MCPSEF plans to expand its grants program, continue its Dine with Dignity, GIVE BACKpacks, and Help Me Make Music campaigns, and grow fundraising to support even more students and schools.

Read More: Learn more about MCPSEF’s grants, community partnerships, and plans for the year ahead.

Proposed Updates to the Board Handbook

The Board reviewed proposed changes to the Board of Education Handbook regarding internal governance and operational rules.

Review the Proposed Board Handbook Revisions

Upcoming Meetings

Monday, September 14, Legislative Summit - in person event (6:00 p.m.) 

Tuesday, September 15, Fiscal Management Committee Meeting (10:00 a.m.)

Thursday, September 24, Board Business Meeting (4:00 p.m.)

Thursday, October 8, Board Work Session (12:00 p.m.)

The Board is offering live simultaneous Spanish interpretation for all monthly Board Business Meetings and Work Sessions on MCPS cable channels and YouTube. Additionally, in-person attendees can request interpretation services for any meeting.  Requests must be submitted at least 10 days in advance of the meeting. We’re excited to make our meetings more accessible and keep our community connected!

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Email us at boe@mcpsmd.org