Awards season is here for Montgomery County Public Schools as nominations are now open for several competitions to honor exceptional teachers and administrators. They can be seen below:

The Montgomery County Public Schools Teacher of the Year Award: The Montgomery County Teacher of the Year Award honors a full-time prekindergarten through Grade 12 teacher who has a demonstrated record of high academic expectations for all students, engaging students of all backgrounds and abilities, contributing to a positive school culture, and connecting with the school community. Nominees must have a minimum of six years of teaching experience, including at least three in MCPS. The Montgomery County Teacher of the Year goes on to represent MCPS as its nominee for the Maryland Teacher of the Year award. Submit applications by email to Sandra J. Karis in the Office of Human Resources and Development. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 22


Montgomery County Police released the following statement from Chief Marcus Jones regarding the person identified in school bomb threats (the statement by MCPD initially listed the incorrect high school, but has since been corrected):

“The person responsible for multiple bomb threats targeting Montgomery Blair High School and Oak View Elementary School has been identified. On October 13, 16, and 23, Montgomery County Public Schools received threats sent via email to Montgomery Blair High School. Similarly, on October 15, Oak View Elementary School was also targeted with a separate email threat. This reckless and dangerous behavior posed a direct threat to the safety and well-being of our schools and students.


11:05am UPDATE: Albert Einstein HS has been cleared. Students, faculty, and staff are returning to the building. Once Newport Mill Rd. is open, parents can reunite with their child at the main office of Albert Einstein HS. 

We will provide an update if additional information becomes available.


Montgomery County Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Brian Hull is currently acting superintendent while Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight is out on medical leave. According to a report by MoCo360, Dr. McKnight has been absent from the office the past week and sent MCPS staff the following message, “I have been dealing with a medical condition that required hospitalization. I am home now, getting better every day, and looking forward to getting back to the office.” No timeframe has been announced for McKnight’s return.

Hull became Chief Operating Officer of MCPS in August 2022. The Chief Operating Officer oversees and supports all aspects of District Operations, Finance, and Human Resources and Development. According to MCPS, “The mission of the Office of the Chief Operating Officer is to provide the highest quality business operations and support services that are essential to the educational success of students through staff committed to fiscal and operational excellence and continuous improvement.” We will provide an update if additional information becomes available.


Richard Montgomery (3-5) at Gaithersburg (7-1): Air vs Ground: A high-scoring showdown awaits as Richard Montgomery’s Anthony “Air Attack” goes head-to-head with Gaithersburg’s “Gideon Ground n’ Pound.” While a repeat of last week’s 64-50 spectacle may be a tall order, the stage is set for an epic clash. RM’s Dixon has been in sensational form all season, but don’t sleep on Gaithersburg’s underrated defense, led by ballhawk Michael Nwaogwugwu. With the Trojans boasting a more balanced offense and the ability to control time of possession, the ingredients seem to favor Gaithersburg as they aim to secure the 3 seed and their best record in 13 years. Prediction: Gaithersburg by 13

Sherwood (6-2) at Quince Orchard (8-0): Unexpected Showdown: While this matchup may have flown under the radar this season, don’t be too quick to dismiss Sherwood’s chances against an undefeated Quince Orchard on paper. After a closer-than-expected contest against Northwest, QO may have some adjustments to make. The teams haven’t faced each other for nine years, and that adds an element of intrigue. Sherwood could make things interesting early, but Quince Orchard is poised to take control as the game progresses. Prediction: Quince Orchard by 35


According to Montgomery County Police, a 17-year-old Walter Johnson High School student has been arrested and charged as an adult for possession of a firearm. The student, who is a Bethesda resident, was arrested after a witness reported to school security that the student had a gun.  Montgomery County Public Schools security team members located the student, conducted a search and located a loaded 9 mm handgun.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., on Monday, October 23, 2023, Montgomery County Department of Police Community Engagement Officers were dispatched to the school, located in the 6400 block of Rock Spring Drive.  Based on the information provided and evidence of the gun, officers arrested the student.


Bomb threats were made against Blair High School (51 University Blvd E, Silver Spring) on October 13th and 16th that were both determined to be not credible.  We will provide an update if additional information becomes available.

MCPD is at Montgomery Blair HS investigating a reported bomb threat.
The school is currently sheltering in place, while officers confirm the validity of the report.
We will update as soon as information is available.#MCPD pic.twitter.com/lpq9Fvcxr4


Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) joined the nation in celebrating National Principals Month this October. This annual observance recognizes the vital role that principals play in creating a positive and nurturing learning environment for students.

”Principals are the backbone of any successful school. They are the driving force behind academic excellence, fostering a culture of inclusivity and ensuring the overall well-being of students. Their leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to education are instrumental in shaping the future of our students and communities


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