Montgomery County Public Schools is highlighting new instructional resources, student assessments, and ongoing safety efforts as the 2026-27 school year gets underway. According to an update shared by the Montgomery County Board of Education, enrollment is approximately 2,000 students below projections, prompting the district to closely monitor financial planning for the year ahead.
The Board described schools as being off to a strong start, pointing to a new math curriculum and simpler resources to help families follow classroom instruction. Those resources include weekly updates and “Refrigerator Guides.”
Eighth graders will take the PSAT 8/9, which the district described as a low-stakes reading and math check-in intended to help inform future course choices. Students do not need to study or complete test preparation.
The districtwide “No cell, bell to bell” policy continues to protect instructional time. School safety efforts also remain a priority, with ongoing reviews of measures such as perimeter fencing and security cameras.
The Board recognized the more than 25,000 MCPS staff members supporting students and schools across the district. It also emphasized the importance of stronger representation of students with special needs in district communications.
