Improving the Student Services Model
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Joshua P. Starr has recommended a $2.4 billion operating budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, which includes $103.6 million in additional spending. Most of this increase will simply allow MCPS to provide the same services to a growing number of students and fund ongoing salaries, benefits, and operational costs. Dr. Starr is recommending $8.2 million in strategic investments aimed at closing the achievement gap and preparing students for success in the 21st century. One of the areas of focus in Dr. Starr's budget is improving the student support model to ensure the academic success and well-being of our children.
A MULTIYEAR STRATEGY
This is the third year of a multiyear budgeting strategy that makes specific investments in areas that will allow MCPS to manage its continued growth; narrow, and ultimately close, achievement gaps; and foster innovation to prepare students for the future. Over the past two years, MCPS has added positions and resources to improve student services by lowering caseloads and supporting the work of Coordinated Student Services Teams. These investments have included—
- The addition of 5 school psychologist positions and 2 elementary school counselor positions in FY 2014; and
- The addition of 4 school psychologist positions, 5.5 elementary school counselor positions, and 3 pupil personnel worker positions in FY 2015.
INVESTING TO IMPROVE STUDENT SERVICES
Among the FY 2016 investments Dr. Starr is recommending to further improve the student services model are—
- $1.1 million for the addition of 3.5 elementary school counselor positions, 5 school psychologist positions, and 4 pupil personnel worker positions. These positions will continue to lower caseloads and allow Coordinated Student Services Teams to better meet the individual needs of students; and
- $463,000 to add 5.5 school counselor positions to high schools that serve a greater number of students who are living in poverty and are more likely to need additional support and services from their school.
GET INFORMED, STAY ENGAGED
You can learn more about the Superintendent's Recommended FY 2016 Operating Budget and how you can participate in the budget process by visiting the Budget website.