Things to Know
for Thursday, Aug. 18

Here are six things to know for Thursday, Aug. 18. They include information about the MCPS Reopening Guide, the 2022-2023 Back-to-School Fair, bus route information and an update on the Antiracist Audit report.

1. MCPS 2022-2023 School Year Reopening Guide

   Earlier today, MCPS shared the Reopening Guide for the upcoming school year. It contains the latest guidance concerning COVID-19 and outlines what to expect in curriculum and instruction, tutoring, grading, supports for students, staff and families and more. Read the full guide here or visit the guide website.

2. Fun, Information and Free Immunizations and COVID-19 Vaccinations at the Back-to-School Fair, Saturday, Aug. 27

   Come join MCPS staff and community partners in our highly anticipated kickoff for the 2022-2023 school year from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27 at Westfield Wheaton mall. Visit the Back-to-School Fair website to learn more and make an appointment for vaccinations or immunizations.

3. MCPS Bus Schedules for 2022–2023 Available Online Friday, Aug. 19

   Bus schedules for the 2022–2023 school year will be posted online on Friday, Aug. 19. Some bus routes may change. Department of Transportation staff are working diligently to ensure all routes are covered and efficient; however, some routes may experience service delays due to staffing and the need for multiple runs. Updates regarding delays and uncovered routes will be communicated on a daily basis by schools and available on the MCPS website.

   MCPS remains committed to:

   • Prioritizing special education student transportation;

   • Using all available staff, including qualified administrative and maintenance employees, to drive buses;

   • Recruiting, training and hiring efforts to increase staffing availability.

4. Antiracist Audit Report Coming This Fall;
   Engagement Sessions to be Scheduled
   

   MCPS will receive the Antiracist System Audit Final Report this fall from the Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium. The final report will be released to the public on Oct. 11 and will include findings for each of the six focus areas. MCPS will collaborate with community partners, student organizations and employee associations to ensure all stakeholders have the opportunity to review the findings and provide input on a district action plan. Dates for community engagement sessions will be shared in September. District leadership will have a final action plan by Jan. 31, 2023.

5. Student Member of the Board of Education Seeks Advisory Cabinet Members
   

   Arvin Kim, the 45th Student Member of the Board of Education (SMOB), is putting together a student cabinet to advise him on matters of importance to students. Cabinet members will help the SMOB explore student concerns and ideas, determine potential policy goals and engage with the MCPS community. Learn more here and apply.

6. Apply Online Now for Free and Reduced-Price Meals Benefits
   

   Families of students who may qualify for free or reduced-price meals can now apply for assistance for school meals. Eligibility is based on family size and gross income. Students in Maryland who qualify for reduced-price meals will receive free breakfast and lunch meals.

   Apply here.
   Learn more about the program.

Montgomery County Public Schools