Montgomery County Public Schools enrollment and closure-plan

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has initiated a study to evaluate the potential closure and consolidation of elementary and middle schools. The district cited the first enrollment decline in over 40 years, noting that student numbers have decreased by approximately 9,200 since the 2019-2020 school year, with a projected further decline of 6,300 students by the 2031 school year.

The district is implementing a two-phase community engagement process. The first phase, beginning in October 2026, focuses on helping the community understand the reasons for potential closures and gathering input on essential programs and facilities. The second phase, scheduled for December 2026, will address the specific criteria used for evaluation, including enrollment trends, building age, transportation, and racial composition.

Acting Chief Operations Officer Andrea Swiatocha stated that there are “no predetermined targets” for the number of closures. The district aims to balance efficiency with the capacity to accommodate potential future increases in international enrollment. Superintendent Thomas Taylor is expected to release recommendations on February 4, 2027, with the Board of Education scheduled to make a final decision on April 15, 2027.