At the Board’s meeting on September 26, members discussed many important topics aimed at improving student experiences and results. MCPS staff provided updates on Board priorities, including student math performance and the program evaluation framework. They also talked about the 2025 Legislative Platform, plans for an expansion at Highland View Elementary School, and a charter school application.
Knowing the Math and Our Students
“When will I ever use this?”
It’s a common question students ask when they’re learning math. But, we know mathematical thinking is essential for students to succeed at school and in solving everyday problems. It’s an incredibly important skill. The Board and MCPS educators agree current student math performance data is not acceptable. This is one of the reasons the Board identified improving student math performance as a priority for the year.
Improving students’ math abilities requires educators to know the math and their students.
To support this work, MCPS invested in:
- High-quality curriculum materials and assessments
- Varied professional learning
- 12 instructional math coaches
Strategies being implemented across the district include:
- Involving school leaders in different professional learning experiences
- Helping schools implement effective curriculum and assessments and monitor progress
- Working together with schools to meet goals for improving math education
Encouragingly, we do see improvement in kindergarten students’ math performance. But, student assessment data from grades 3 and 6, and those taking Algebra 1, show little change. Teachers, school leaders, and central service staff are dedicated to the work required to support all students in developing math skills they will use for a lifetime.
The Board appreciates the transparency and collaboration MCPS staff employ to address math performance. In October, staff will report on math performance within special populations.
To learn more, watch the presentation.
How Program Evaluation Supports Student Success
MCPS’ program evaluation framework directly relates to two of the Board’s priorities for the year: holding the district accountable for using a robust system of continuous improvement and supporting MCPS in a comprehensive examination of curriculum.
Program evaluation is an organized way of gathering information about how a specific program works, what it does, and what results it gets. It helps MCPS better understand its programs and make decisions that best support students.
MCPS staff explained how they review programs and shared their plan for the year. This year, ten programs and initiatives are scheduled for review. Final reports for each program review will be shared with the Board.
To learn more about how MCPS conducts program evaluations and what programs are being reviewed this year, watch the presentation.
2025 Legislative Platform Focuses on Access, Safety, and Learning Opportunities
The Board adopted their 2025 Legislative Platform, identifying key initiatives to strengthen education in Montgomery County. The legislative priorities focus on providing access and opportunity to every student, recognizing diverse paths to success, and the inherent right of every student to learn in safe schools. These priorities include:
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- Graduation Credit Review
- Funding for Safety Upgrades in Schools
- Blueprint-Required Funding for Dual Enrollment and AP/IB Exams
- GED Exam Accessibility
- Statewide Virtual Learning
The Board will host a Legislative Summit on September 30, the first step in a months-long collaborative effort with county and state elected officials to support public education in Montgomery County and the State of Maryland. MCPS Superintendent Thomas Taylor, Ed.D., M.B.A. will join the Board at the event.
Watch the presentation for more detail about the Board’s legislative priorities and ongoing interests.
Highland View Elementary Design Plans Approved
The Board approved plans for an addition to Highland View Elementary School. The addition is planned to help alleviate current overcrowding and provide expanded capacity for the future. The project is scheduled to be completed by August 2027.
For current updates on the project, visit the Highland View Elementary School Addition webpage.
Watch the presentation to learn more about the project and design features.
Board Approves Charter School Application
In Maryland, charter schools are approved by the local public school district. The Board approved the application submitted by the Mentoring by Example Foundation. Learn more by watching the presentation.
Upcoming Meetings
- Thursday, October 10 – Business Meeting
Visit our webpage to view agendas, meeting materials, and watch live or recordings.
Opportunities for Engagement
The public is encouraged to engage with the Board. Learn about the ways to participate on our website.