Welcome Back Message From Superintendent and Board President
Dear Students, Parents, Staff and Community Members,
As President of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools, we are excited to welcome you back for the 2023-2024 school year! Our district is committed to excellence, and by working in partnership with our families, we will pave the pathway to a bright future for every student in our community.
At MCPS, our primary goal is to equip students with the necessary tools, skills and knowledge to thrive in their future college, career and community endeavors. We are excited for the opportunities this new school year presents for all students. As a system, we have identified priorities and key investments to fully support our educators, our schools and most importantly, our students. Our focus on student academic achievement and social-emotional and physical safety supports are foundational to an inspiring learning environment.
Supporting each student's educational journey is the focus of our MCPS staff, no matter their role in this great district.
One of the critical areas of focus continues to be the core academics of math and literacy teaching. We are making key investments in instructional staff, planning and professional development to ensure gains in student performance and well being.
We are also introducing the Pathway to Student Success in College, Career and Community. This pathway will help families, students and teachers identify a student’s strengths and opportunities for improvement so they can receive the support they need. The pathway will also determine critical competencies and experiences students should have to develop the foundational skills and competencies that will leave them college, career and community ready.
Additionally, we are doing key work in the areas of student attendance and social-emotional and physical safety. Students must be in school daily and in an environment where they feel emotionally and physically safe to learn. This week, we will release an Attendance Action Plan to tackle chronic absenteeism. In the coming weeks, we will share more information about a comprehensive plan for student safety.
This work demonstrates our commitment to the success and well-being of every student in MCPS. ALL TOGETHER NOW: We Are On A Pathway to a Bright Future. We value your partnership and look forward to continuing our journey toward excellence in Montgomery County Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Karla Silvestre
Board of Education President, Montgomery County Public Schools
Dr. Monifa B. McKnight
Superintendent, Montgomery County Public Schools