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April 15, 2026 |
Preparing for Warmer Days |
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MCPS has begun converting equipment from heating to air conditioning in its schools. This process is already underway at secondary schools; crews will then move on to elementary schools. Schools serving a considerable number of special needs students will be evaluated weekly, with adjustments made based on temperatures to minimize the impact. The systemwide transition will take about four weeks.
Here is the current changeover status list for MCPS schools and facilities. Note the list of schools who do not require a seasonal changeover due to geothermal heating and cooling systems.
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Making the Final Weeks Count |
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The final weeks of the school year matter — a lot. We have finally reached the fourth quarter of the school year. It’s an exciting and important time for students, staff and families. We have been communicating with families on how to best support their students at home. We appreciate all that you do in your classrooms, school buildings and offices every day.
The most important thing right now for students is consistent attendance. As we approach end-of-year assessments, including the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program, being in school every day ensures students don’t miss critical instruction and feel confident.
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BOE to Discuss Calendar Changes, Meal Prices |
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The Board of Education will be discussing important topics in its work session on Thursday (April 16). Among them:
- Changes to the 2026–2027 school calendar: Due to a Maryland State Board of Education requirement that public school systems end their school years by June 18, 2027, the Board of Education will need to amend the school calendar for 2026–2027. Changes could affect: religious observances, the shortening of winter and/or spring break, or potentially beginning the school year earlier in August.
- School meal prices: The Board will also hear a discussion on the proposal to increase meal prices in the 2026–2027 school year. The last time meal prices were raised was in Fiscal Year 2015. Since then, there have been significant increases in food and labor costs. MCPS has the lowest meal prices, as compared to surrounding school districts.
The Board will take final action at their meeting on April 30. Tune in starting at noon to watch the Board work session.
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Pinning Ceremony to Celebrate Certification Milestone |
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National Board Certified educators will be celebrated tonight (April 15) in a formal pinning ceremony at Richard Montgomery High School. A total of 270 MCPS educators achieved National Board Certification; another 46 successfully maintained their certifications. This brings the total number of National Board Certified educators in MCPS to 1,205, the most in Maryland. Interested in learning more about certification? Visit the MCPS NBC website and make plans to attend an information session on April 20 (PDO course #94135).
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Everyday We’re Shuffling — for a Cause |
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Watch the highlights and view the photos from the inaugural Superintendent’s Shuffle. Whether running the 5K (see who won) or enjoying the fun run, students, staff, families and community members hit the course to support the MCPS Educational Foundation’s Dine with Dignity campaign. Thank you to everyone who showed up, cheered loud and made this event a success!
Feeling inspired? MCPS employees can keep the momentum going by joining the Spring 5K Program, a virtual program open to all fitness levels. The program starts Monday and is open to all MCPS employees. Send an email to sign up.
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Shining on the National Stage for Family Engagement |
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Dr. Everett Davis, director in the Department of Family Engagement, has won the 2026 Constantino Family Engagement Practitioner Award for his outstanding and meaningful work connecting families, schools and communities. Davis was one of nine finalists for the inaugural award, given to those who excel in building strong family, school and community partnerships; demonstrating equity and inclusiveness, and strengthening student success and family empowerment.
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Highlighting Women’s Leadership in Education |
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On the latest episode of EdTalk, BOE President Grace Riviera-Oven hosts a conversation with Dr. DeRionne Pollard, president and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges, and Karla Silvestre, member of the Board of Education. They discuss the importance of women leaders in education and the insights they bring, as well as the importance of mentoring young women and the significant strides and contributions women have made in educational leadership.
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Reclassification Study Process to Launch in May |
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The Division of Human Resources and Talent Management will be initiating the Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027 reclassification study years in May. A memorandum was recently sent to executive staff that provided an update on the process and timeline. For more information about the reclassification study process, visit the website. You can also view the recently updated Regulation GHA-RA, Maintenance of Position Classifications, which provides new information about the study process and timeline.
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From the Employee Assistance Program |
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Join the EAP for a webinar on Taking Charge of Your Financial Wellness at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21. Learn more on the MCPS EAP website.
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Last Used Car, Computer Sale Coming May 9 |
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The last used car and computer sale of the school year will be held from 9–11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9 at Thomas Edison High School of Technology, 12501 Dalewood Drive in Silver Spring. The Montgomery County Students Automotive Trades Foundation (ATF) and Information Technology Foundation (ITF) will sell used cars and computers they have refurbished as part of their classroom and lab studies. More information on the car sale will be posted here.
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Meet Us May 16 in Gaithersburg: A Book Festival for All Ages |
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The Gaithersburg Book Festival, a celebration of books, writers and literary excellence, will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 16 at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg. The festival will feature a lineup of authors and activities for children of all ages. There will be programs, workshops and activities for children to promote interest in reading, writing and illustrating. More than 100 authors and illustrators are scheduled to appear, including current and former MCPS educators. Admission and parking are free.
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Edison Honored for Student-Led Diversity and Leadership |
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Thomas Edison High School of Technology has been named a 2026 SkillsUSA National Models of Excellence recipient for its outstanding achievement in advancing workplace skills through student-led multicultural programming that promotes unity, leadership and real-world career readiness. Edison is one of 24 schools in the nation — and one of only two in Maryland — to receive this recognition.
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Reminders |
- Nominations Open for EML Awards: Honor educators, school leaders and students. Learn more.
- Scholarships Available: The MCPS Retirees Association is awarding $1,500 scholarships to teachers and staff members to help defray the cost of course work in a recognized educational program for the summer or fall of 2026. Apply.
- Skilled in Communication and Community Engagement?: The Board of Education is looking for community leaders and professionals with expertise in communication and engagement to apply for its Advisory Committee. Learn more and apply by Friday, May 1.
- CPR/AED/First Aid Training for Staff: Available to all MCPS employees, free of charge. Trainings are offered throughout the year. See the list or email Peter Park.
- Café Edison Open for Business: Breakfast and lunch are available. Reservations are required. Open through Friday, May 15.
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Join Us April 18 to Support Our Youth and Build a Safer Community |
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The MCPS Family Forum on Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention will be held from 1–4 p.m. on Saturday, April 18 at Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Blvd. East in Silver Spring. This event is free and open to students, families, staff and community members. Students can earn 3 Student Service Learning hours for participating. Workshops will be held in English and Spanish.
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Take the Next Step: Explore Higher Ed Partnerships |
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Ready to move your career forward? Take advantage of higher education partnership opportunities designed for teacher certification or licensure, ongoing professional growth, and career advancement. Discover your options and register through Professional Development Online (PDO).
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Excellence in Action |
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MCPS thrives because of the tireless commitment of our staff. Our schools and offices are powered by people who lead with heart and excellence. Join us in celebrating the leaders and quiet heroes among us with the latest Unleashing Potential winners. See the list.
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Farewell Gatherings |
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A retirement celebration is being held for Mike Bayewitz, principal at Cloverly Elementary School, from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9 at Pinstripes, 11920 Grand Park Avenue in North Bethesda. RSVP by sending $50 (which includes a gift) by May 26. Questions? Email Alison Leary.
Retirement celebrations can be submitted to The Bulletin here.
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Your April Wellness Boost |
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One in four U.S. adults sits for more than eight hours a day — something that can negatively impact physical and mental health. Replacing just 30 minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity can reduce the risk of death by 17 percent. MCPS’ Well Aware program is offering a variety of virtual, life and on-demand classes to get you moving. Let’s go, Team MCPS!
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