12/02/2025
The Board of Education approved the superintendent’s Recommended FY 2027 Capital Budget and the FY 2027–2032 Capital Improvements Program, a $2.78 billion plan that increases investment in aging facilities, provides relief from overcrowding, and supports essential systemwide upgrades. The plan maintains timelines for major ongoing projects and advances key modernizations and replacements across the county, including Damascus HS, Eastern MS, Sligo MS and several elementary schools.
Because the superintendent’s recommendation includes proposed changes to Silver Spring International Middle School (SSIMS) and Sligo Creek Elementary School, the Board added an amendment to clarify that no decision has been made to close or convert any school. The amendment states that all related projects cannot move forward unless and until the Board formally considers and votes on a closure proposal, following the full public process required by Board policy and state regulations. This ensures that families will have clear information and meaningful opportunities to provide input before any decision is made.
Next Steps
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The approved CIP now goes to the County Executive and County Council for review during the county’s capital budget process.
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Boundary studies and any related CIP adjustments—including those involving SSIMS and Sligo Creek ES—will return to the Board for review and action in February and March 2026.
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Any potential school closure will require full public notification, a hearing, and a final Board vote before a decision is made.
