Reflecting, Looking Ahead and Embracing Hope

Dear MCPS Community,

This has been a tough year.

Families across our community, the state and the nation have faced so much in 2020. Virtual learning for our students has been a challenge; masks have become a part of our daily reality; and isolation from friends and family has been painful. We spend hours in front of screens. 

As we approach winter break and find ourselves on the cusp of a new year, I am looking ahead to next year. Despite the difficulties, our nature is to expect better in the future; that tomorrow will be a better day. This is why people unite for shared goals and why I always embrace the hope of a better tomorrow. Embracing hope is the motivation that enables us to take the necessary steps to make it happen, to make tomorrow truly better. 

Recently, I released my recommended operating budget for the next school year. Although there are many unknowns about our future funding, the budget is foundationally built on hope. As a community and in service to our students, we must be United for Our Future.

As a school system, we are motivated to continue to:

• Improve virtual learning
• Bring students back into our buildings safely when we can do so
• Support staff with professional development and technology
• Provide critical mental health and academic supports for students

And so much more.

Hope is a desire for things to be better than they are now. To have hope means to actively link our present to our future. MCPS and this community have the right people to move us toward better days.

Please join me in wishing a “better tomorrow” to all the people you know. I encourage you to rest and recharge during winter break; to wear masks and to stay safe; and to find joy in the moments of the holiday season–to bring cheer to those close to you.

I want to recognize and thank our administrators, support professionals and teachers for all the work they've done; they are the heart of our community. Next year, 2021—I hope we can all stand and be United for Our Future. Happy holidays to you and your loved ones. 

Jack R. Smith, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools