FOX5’s Homa Bash reported that Magruder High School in Derwood recently faced a significant disruption when a portion of the auditorium ceiling fell during a spring musical production of “Once Upon a Mattress.” Despite the alarming incident the show continued with a brief pause, but it did raise urgent safety concerns regarding the aging infrastructure of the nearly 55-year-old school.
Photos sent in by parents to FOX5 depict the damage caused by the ceiling collapse, prompting immediate action from school officials. After a thorough assessment, it was determined that the auditorium would need extensive repairs, leading to its closure. Consequently, future showings of the musical had to be relocated to Shady Grove Middle School, much to the disappointment of students, parents, and staff.
FOX5 shared that Kim Glassman, president of the Magruder Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), expressed frustration over the lack of timely maintenance, stating, “Our infrastructure is aging in general, the cost of maintenance and repairs and construction is increasing in general, and our budget is becoming more restrained.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among parents who have been advocating for capital improvements at the school for years.
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) officials clarified that while the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) focuses on significant long-term projects, routine maintenance issues—such as the ceiling collapse—are categorized under the operational budget.
In response to the ongoing maintenance challenges, FOX5 shared that MCPS Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor requested an additional $9 million for school upkeep in the upcoming $3.6 billion budget proposal. This funding could be crucial in addressing not only the urgent repairs needed for the auditorium but also the broader maintenance issues plaguing the school.
A member of the program tells us that over 50 community members came together over the past two days to help move the entire set, costumes, props, and audio-visual equipment—a major effort driven by dedicated students preparing to take their show on tour. They added that two performances remain, scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 7 PM at Shady Grove Middle School, and encouraged the community to come out and support the hardworking students keeping the spirit of “the show must go on” alive.
The Magruder community awaits updates on the timeline for repairs and the future of other school’s facilities, including the recently collapsed ceiling. Additional information, can be found on the FOX5 article. A letter sent to the Magruder community can be seen in full below:
Good afternoon Magruder community,
Due to repairs needed in our auditorium, we are moving our Spring Musical performance to Shady Grove Middle School this Friday 3/14 and Saturday 3/15 at 7:00 pm.
- All tickets previously purchased on GoFan will be honored. You may still purchase tickets in advance on GoFan.
- Please carpool if you are able in anticipation of crowded parking.
- If your child is participating in the musical and you have any questions about Thursday’s rehearsal and the performances, please contact the drama department staff.
- If you have any other questions, please contact
Principal Chris Ascienzo at
[email protected].A huge thank you to the staff and leadership in our drama and music department and at Shady Grove MS for being able to relocate so quickly. This is another example of what makes the Magruder family strong.
We’re looking forward to a great show at Shady Grove
Friday and Saturday!