Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) welcomes more than 161,000 students today into its 205 schools for the start of the 2017-2018 school year. This is more than 2,000 new students to the school system and represents the largest enrollment in the district’s history.

MCPS is also welcoming more than 950 new teachers, more than 130 new supporting services professionals and 26 new administrators this school year.

“I am so excited to welcome all of our students and staff to the 2017-2018 school year and get back to the business of learning,” said Dr. Jack Smith, Superintendent of Schools. “Student learning is our essential purpose. Our teachers, staff and school leaders are committed to meeting the needs of every student and ensuring all of our students have access to learning at the highest levels.”

To accommodate growing enrollment, the new Silver Creek Middle School in Kensington opens its doors to more than 550 students in sixth and seventh grades. The school, led by Principal  Traci Townsend, is more than 155,000 square feet and features 11 laboratories for technology, computers and science, four project rooms, special education classrooms and support spaces. MCPS has also completed four other capital projects, including the revitalization/expansion of Brown Station, Wayside and Wheaton Woods elementary schools, and an addition at Diamond Elementary School.

Additionally, two new two-way language immersion programs (Spanish/English) are launching at Brown Station and Washington Grove elementary schools. These programs join eight other elementary immersion programs across the county (seven immersion and one two-way immersion), in placing young students on the path to biliteracy and bilingualism.

“The Board of Education is excited to welcome back all of our students, teachers and staff for another great year in Montgomery County Public Schools,” said Michael Durso, president of the Montgomery County Board of Education. “There are so many opportunities for our students to learn and grow, and we are committed to ensuring they have the knowledge and skills they need to thrive now and in the future.  We wish everyone a productive, safe and successful school year.”

Photos for media use are available here.