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Programs Analysis … Why Are We Doing It?

Posted On September 17, 2025
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MCPS is designing a regional model of its academic programs to expand access so that more students—in more parts of the county—can participate in strong programs closer to home. Our goal is to achieve excellence and equity. By expanding regionally, we can reduce barriers such as distance and limited space, while maintaining the rigor and strength of existing programs. The Board of Education is expected to take final action in December 2025.

Why is MCPS conducting this programs analysis?

MCPS is conducting a districtwide analysis of academic programs to ensure that all students have access to high-quality opportunities. The goal is to align programs with student interests, community needs, industry demands and the effective use of resources. This work is happening alongside two boundary studies. While boundary studies focus on home school assignments in specific areas, the programs analysis is countywide and focused on equitable access to high-demand, high-quality programs. Doing both at the same time allows families to see the full picture when making decisions.

Over the past 50 years, new programs have been layered into the system without a comprehensive framework, which has created uneven access. For example: 

  • Some students have three chances to apply to regional or countywide programs (such as International Baccalaureate), while others have only one. Each year, more than 3,000 students apply for admission to programs, yet more than 2,000 Grade 8 students remain on waitlists or in waitpools because seats are so limited. 
  • In addition, while some programs are countywide or regional with central stops, the lack of multiple sites makes them inaccessible to many families due to distance and limited transportation. 
  • Today, a few schools dominate the most in-demand programs, which restricts opportunities for students across the county.
  • Some of our programs do not have central bus stop transportation, therefore making them inaccessible to students.  

We know many more students across the county are qualified and eager for these opportunities than there are seats available today. A regional model allows us to expand access so that students can participate in strong programs closer to home.

The academic programs analysis also allows the system to upgrade the admissions process to add additional on and off ramps for students who may become interested or change their mind for a program beyond Grade 8.

Dates and times for upcoming information sessions on the programs analysis are expected to be announced soon.