Debunking Myths about the Regional Programs

MCPS remains committed to ensuring that every student in every community has access to high-quality academic programs that match their interests and ambitions, without barriers of distance or opportunity. The work the district is doing is an important step toward a more equitable system. 

We know that families may still have questions about this work. Here are three myths we have been hearing, and the truth:

Myth: MCPS is moving or discontinuing long-established and successful programs.
Fact: MCPS has numerous successful high school programs and each of these programs will remain in their existing site and additional ones will be expanded. For example, the MC2 (Middle College) program at Northwood and Northwest high schools; the Montgomery Blair High School Science, Math, Computer Science program and the Humanities House at Poolesville High School are remaining.  

Myth: MCPS is eliminating successful local courses and pathways in the high schools because of the regional programs.
Fact: Both regional/countywide programs and successful local courses and pathways can exist effectively in the same school building. In fact,  90 percent, the majority of high school students attend their local high school for the strong pathways. Local pathways are here to stay; they may change annually depending on what students sign up for. 

Myth: The magnet programs will be diluted because of expansion.
Fact: MCPS has expanded programming over decades to provide more access and opportunities for students. Our student academic performance data indicates there are many interested, talented and high-performing students throughout the county. Many who apply remain on waitlists and waitpools.