What is Your Child Learning in the Classroom? Here’s What to Know

MCPS Launches “Refrigerator Curriculum” to Strengthen Family Partnerships

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is rolling out a new initiative to make curriculum more transparent and family-friendly. Starting this school year, families will receive a simple, one-page overview of the main themes and texts students will study each marking period—nicknamed the “Refrigerator Curriculum” because it’s designed to be easy to post on the fridge at home.

The new approach highlights MCPS’ commitment to three key values:

• Partnering with families: Parents and guardians are recognized as their child’s first teachers and are encouraged to stay engaged and informed.
  
• Celebrating diversity: Classroom materials reflect the cultures, traditions and life experiences of MCPS’ diverse community, helping every student feel seen and valued.
  
• Respecting beliefs: A clear process allows families to request alternative assignments if a text conflicts with sincerely held religious views.

Think about it this way: Families stay informed. Students keep learning. Religious beliefs are respected.

The process to make a request is simple:

• Review the Refrigerator Curriculum at the start of each marking period.
• Submit a request to your child’s school if a text substantially interferes with your family’s religious beliefs.
• If the request is approved, the teacher and principal will be notified.
• Your child will receive an alternative assignment or text at the same time the class is working on the original material.

Information:

• See an example of the refrigerator curriculum.
• Read the Frequently Asked Questions.
• Read regulation IFD-RA, Curriculum Transparency and Requests to be Excused from Instruction.