Board of Education Remembers Patricia O’Neill; Discusses Equity Accountability Model and Evidence of Learning Framework; Approves Recognitions

The Montgomery County Board of Education (Board) held a business meeting on September 21, 2021. During the meeting, the Board shared remembrances of Mrs. Patricia O’Neill, Board member since 1998, who passed away on September 14, 2021; approved several recognitions; and discussed the Montgomery County Public Schools’ (MCPS) Equity Accountability Model and the Evidence of Learning Framework.

Per MCPS:

The agenda for the meeting, with links to related materials, can be viewed on the Board of Education website. Watch the meeting recording.

Remembrances of Mrs. Patricia O’Neill

Board members and MCPS staff paid tribute to Mrs. O’Neill and shared fond memories of her time on the Board of Education. Many recognized the depth and breadth of institutional knowledge that Mrs. O’Neill brought to her work with the Board in her commitment to the students and staff of MCPS. An official declaration was presented to the O’Neill family and a video remembrance was shared. The video can be viewed here.

MCPS’ Equity Accountability Model and the Evidence of Learning Framework

MCPS staff shared the 2020–2021 Evidence of Learning (EOL) end-of-year performance data for students in Grades 2, 5, 8, and 11. These 2020–2021 data represent the first full-year view of academic performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Evidence of Learning Framework employs a multiple measures approach designed to help us answer the questions: Are our children learning and are they learning enough? The staff report included the following:

• A review of Evidence of Learning data from 2018–2019 and 2020–2021 revealing the effect of virtual and hybrid learning in key areas of literacy and mathematics.
• Information concerning the college and career readiness of students from the 2020–2021 school year, including the overall success of students by student demographics.
• The school improvement planning process.
• A focus on literacy and mathematics.
• The use of assessments to inform changes in instructional practices.
• The acceleration of learning that focuses on the mastery of grade-level content.
• Providing tutoring resources and student instructional interventions.
• Providing necessary professional development for staff.

This work represents key strategies and tactics necessary to support students returning to in-person learning in a continuing COVID-19 environment.

Read the memorandum to the Board.

View the PowerPoint presentation.

Recognitions

The Board approved resolutions in recognition of the following:

• Walk to School Day
• National Disability Employment Awareness Month
• Maryland Family Engagement Month
• National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Future Meetings

The Board is scheduled to hold its next business meeting on Tuesday, October 5, 2021. The Board will meet in person. The agenda is subject to change. Please check the Board of Education website and meeting calendar for further information.