MCPS Weekly Update — Things to Know
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Summer Edition

Things to Know

July 30, 2026

 
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  Meet Us at National Night Out! Celebrate Community with MCPS

Join MCPS at National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4 at:

  • Montgomery College, Germantown Campus, 20200 Observation Drive, Germantown, 5:30–8 p.m.
  • Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 608 North Horners Lane, Rockville, 6–8 p.m.

National Night Out celebrates community partnerships and promotes camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live. These events will be held rain or shine, and include food trucks, local vendors and fun activities for all ages. Stop by one of our tables to meet MCPS staff, pick up resources and celebrate with us. 

 
  A Summer to Celebrate, A School Year to Welcome
  • For those of you who’ve been with us during summer school, thank you for all your hard work. The last day of summer school is Thursday, Aug. 6. We will celebrate all your accomplishments during summer school graduation at 10 a.m. on Aug. 12 at Paint Branch High School. 
  • The first day of school is Monday, Aug. 24 for those entering kindergarten, 6th and 9th grades, for those new to MCPS and for those entering Grade 3 in intermediate schools. Transition Day is a non-instructional day focused on helping students adjust to new school environments, routines and expectations. They will meet principals, tour buildings and connect with classmates before the official first day of school on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
 
  New This Year — No Cell, Bell to Bell

MCPS is implementing a new cellphone regulation this school year that will help students stay focused and connected in the classroom. All personal mobile devices will be expected to be put away for all grade levels during the academic day (with few exceptions) — from the first bell through dismissal. This action is expected to result in fewer disruptions and help students stay engaged in learning. We will share more information next week. 

 

 
  Resource Guide Links Families to Essential Support Services

The MCPS Division of Specialized Support Services has produced a Community Resource Guide for Families. The guide includes a comprehensive list of school and community resources on a range of topics, including access to healthcare and mental health services; assistance with food, clothing, furniture, housing and utilities; youth development and mentorship; domestic violence; workforce; academic and technology; international families and more.

View the guide in English | Spanish | French | Chinese | Vietnamese | Amharic | Korean | Portuguese.

 

 
  See You at a Back-to-School Fair!

In just a few short weeks, we'll be heading back to school! Before the first bell rings, join us at one of MCPS' six regional Back-to-School Fairs.

Whether you need to register for school, get required vaccinations or health screenings, complete a physical, receive technology support, get information about school meals, learn about school apps, pick up school supplies, review schedules, ask questions about fees or IEP services, or access community resources, you'll find the people and services you need — all in one place. You'll be able to connect with your school's team, meet community partners and enjoy family-friendly activities.

Find your school and join us at your regional Back-to-School Fair!

 
  Make Sure Your Student’s Immunizations Are Up to Date

Maryland law requires all students attending public schools to receive certain childhood vaccinations unless they have an approved medical or religious exemption.

Students who do not meet Maryland's immunization requirements may not be allowed to attend school until they have received the required vaccines or submitted the appropriate documentation. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider or a local health clinic, or visit a free immunization clinic in August and September, hosted by the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Learn about required immunizations to attend school.

Frequently Asked Questions about childhood vaccines

 
  Registration Open for Saturday School

Registration for the George B. Thomas Sr. Learning Academy, Inc., also known as Saturday School, is open for the 2026–2027 school year. Saturday School provides Kindergarten through Grade 12 academic support programs in math and English/Language Arts. There are in-person and virtual options.

Saturday School’s opening session is Sept. 19; the first tutoring session is Sept. 26. The curriculum is aligned with MCPS and is taught by certified teachers.

After a decade, Saturday School is increasing its fees this year. Until Tuesday, Sept. 1, the annual cost will be $85 and $40 for families eligible for Free and Reduced-price Meals (FARMS). After Sept. 1, the cost will increase to $100 and $50 for FARMS-eligible families. Register early! Call 301-287-8980 for general information.

Registration and more information

 
  Booked for the Summer: The Road to Biliteracy Continues

Did you know that MCPS graduates have earned the Maryland Seal of Biliteracy in more than 50 languages? This recognition celebrates students who are proficient in English and at least one other language. Keep those language skills growing this summer by exploring books, videos and digital resources in 10 languages from the Montgomery County Public Libraries’ collection, or by trying one of the engaging language activities featured in the Booked for the Summer digital guide. Read more. 

 
  Reminders
  • Fall Sports Begin Soon — Get Your Physical Exam and Register: Registration for the 2026–2027 season of fall athletics is now available on ParentVue. High school students must have an annual physical exam before they can participate in MCPS athletics. Fall athletic teams may begin tryouts on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Montgomery County’s final Mobile Health Clinic offering free sports physicals will be Saturday, Aug. 8. More information on this and on playing middle school athletics, is available here.
  • Kindergarten Registration: Will your student be 5 years old by Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026? Register for full-day kindergarten.
  • Prekindergarten/Head Start Registration: Will your student be 4 years old by Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026? Space is still available in some MCPS schools and with private providers of early education for income-eligible families. To register, visit the Pre-K/Head Start office at 4910 Macon Road in Rockville, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call 240-740-4530. 
  • MCPS Parent Academy Transition Resources: Is your student starting kindergarten, middle school or high school this fall? MCPS Parent Academy's Transition Workshop recordings and presentations are available to help your family prepare for the year ahead with practical tips, resources and information.
  • Student Service Learning: Submit an entry for this PSA contest on road safety and earn 10 SSL hours. And, be sure to check out the other SSL opportunities this month!
 

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