Montgomery Signal

MCPS has started an elementary and middle school boundary study. No closures or boundary changes were proposed July 16, and approved changes would not take effect before 2029-2030.

MCPS eighth graders may apply to and rank up to eight regional Center programs across five themes, including STEM, medical science, international studies, public service and the arts.

MCPS will give every eighth grader the PSAT 8/9 during the school day at no cost and register students automatically. Results may count as one of several criteria for criteria-based high school programs, except arts programs.

MCPS high school juniors and seniors can attend an Oct. 9 college fair during the school day. Families can also register for a virtual financial-aid night Sept. 22 and an in-person FAFSA help day Oct. 3.

MCPS says bus routes are posted, students follow school behavior rules aboard buses, and families calling a depot should have the student ID, route number and school ready.

MCPS says families must complete a new FARMS application every school year, even if they qualified before. One MySchoolApps application covers all students in a household.

MCPS Transition Day is Monday for kindergarten, grades 6 and 9, grade 3 at intermediate schools, and new students. All students start Tuesday; bus routes are posted now.

MCPS is putting crisis-support information in every secondary classroom and hallway, adding school-specific help email addresses and teaching students how to ask for support. Families can talk with children about a trusted adult at school.

MCPS has published an eight-language family guide with practical mental-health check-in tips, school-based supports and crisis resources.

MCPS students in kindergarten, grades 7 and 9, and students new to the district must provide vaccination proof or have an appointment scheduled within 20 calendar days of their first school day to remain in school.

MCPS students from prekindergarten through Algebra 1 are using Amplify Desmos Math this school year, with lessons built around problem-solving, discussion and explaining strategies.

MCPS students attending athletic events must carry a student ID or StudentVUE schedule. Elementary and middle students and high schoolers from non-participating schools need an adult chaperone; backpacks and re-entry are barred.

MCPS families can register K–12 students for Saturday School. The first session is September 26, free buses are available, and annual fees increase after September 1.

Families at 26 MCPS schools have a principal newly hired or new to that school for 2026-2027. The district's official list identifies each principal and school.

Sixth graders can now join MCPS middle school sports. Fall registration is open in ParentVUE for softball and cross country, with a current physical and medical forms required.

MCPS is taking family feedback through September 20 on school calendars for 2027-2028 and 2028-2029.

MCPS says personal mobile devices must be put away at all grade levels from the first bell through dismissal during the 2026–2027 school year.

MCPS approved a K-8 screen-time review that will measure instructional and non-instructional device use, examine possible reductions and content filters, and report recommendations by March 2027.