Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) welcomes more than 164,000 students today (Tuesday, Sept. 3) into its 207 schools for the start of the 2019-2020 school year—the largest enrollment in the district’s history.

MCPS is also welcoming more than 1,000 new teachers, more than 160 supporting services professionals and 21 new principals this school year.

We are excited and ready to open our schools today to help our students continue to learn and and achieve their highest potential,” said Superintendent Jack Smith. “Our teachers, administrators and staff work hard every day and understand what it takes when we say, All Means All, in MCPS. As we work together, I am confident that we can and will achieve our core purpose of preparing all students to thrive in their futures.”

To accommodate growing enrollment, the new Snowden Farm Elementary School in Clarksburg opens its doors to nearly 650 students in kindergarten through fourth grade. The school, led by principal Yolanda Allen, is more than 91,000 square feet and features state-of-the-art technology and flexible, collaborative work spaces for students. Additionally, Ashburton and S. Christa McAuliffe elementary schools were expanded to address increased enrollment. 

MCPS continues to make investments in key areas for the new school year that will allow the district to expand access and opportunities for all students. These critical investments include:

• Extended-year programming at two elementary schools
• Expanded prekindergarten programs
• Reduced class size in elementary schools
• Increased world language experience at elementary schools through volunteers, online resources and after-school programs
• Expanded dual-enrollment opportunities for students at all three Montgomery College campuses
• Increased support for students’ physical, social and psychological well-being
• Strengthened and expanded college and career pathway programs
• Updated curricular instructional materials aligned with state standards and best practices

“We are thrilled to welcome back our students, staff and families for what I am confident will be an exciting year of learning and achievement for our district,” said Board of Education President Shebra Evans. “We are honored to serve these wonderful students and are dedicated to their success.”