School consolidations and closures are on the horizon for Montgomery County Public Schools, where leaders say the student population is declining for the first time in more than 40 years.
“Since 2007, the birth rates have declined, and as a school system, we’re really starting to see that,” MCPS acting Chief Operating Officer Andrea Swiatocha said. “So, when your largest enrollment of 12th grade that we just graduated in June leaves, right, at almost 13,000 students and our incoming kindergarten is closer to 9,000, you’re going to see a significant gap.”
Some parents believe cost of living and immigration enforcement operations could be partly to blame.
“I think so, because people move, some people change address, but others head back to their home countries,” parent Blanca Rodriguez said. “Like we already know many people are afraid of immigration right, now.”
MCPS officials say they will consider enrollment, building use, capacity, transportation and other factors before making any final decisions. But overall enrollment in Montgomery County is down 7%, comparing data from the past two years, according to data from the Maryland Report Card.
Elementary and middle schools will be evaluated. The goal is to determine which schools the superintendent should recommend to the Board of Education for closure and consolidation.
The plan would be implemented in phases, and parents and kids won’t see the changes being implemented until the 2029-30 school year.
According to MCPS, a website will be launched by Oct. 8 for parents to monitor the consolidation process. The school district will seek community input at public hearings — virtually and in person — starting Oct. 19.
An actual decision regarding which schools will be affected will be announced by spring 2027.
