All,

• CHAT Link
• Video Link
• Registration Link
• Presentation (PPT format) Link

The meeting began with introductions and discussions about communication methods, including WhatsApp groups and recording policies, before transitioning to updates on various school-related initiatives and programs. The group reviewed student performance data and assessment reports, with particular attention to disparities in test scores and the introduction of new members to the Parents’ Council. The conversation ended with discussions about special education programs, upcoming boundary changes, and various community events, while addressing concerns about outreach efforts and mental health services in MCPS schools.

The meeting began with introductions and a discussion about recording, with Byron explaining that meetings are generally recorded but may be paused if the content is sensitive. Jessica, a new representative for Gibbs Elementary, joined and inquired about the recording policy. Byron also mentioned that the October meeting might conflict with a school event, and he would be flexible if a better date could be found. The group discussed the use of WhatsApp groups for communication, with Byron explaining that representatives need to select the appropriate group based on their school level.

The meeting began with introductions from various parent representatives from different schools, including BannockBurn, Halley Wells Middle School, Kensington Parkwood Elementary, and others. Byron emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum on Zoom and encouraged participants to use the chat for questions and comments. He introduced the agenda, welcomed new parent representatives and encouraged everyone to share events and ideas in the chat to foster engagement and collaboration.

Diego shared that Ia coalition of providers won a MC grant to provide support services to families facing deportation or ICE-related issues. The grant will fund services for families with varying levels of need, from basic assistance (Tier 1) to more complex cases (Tier 3), with the goal of providing temporary stability while families make difficult decisions about their futures. Diego explained that the coalition will operate through a phone number and website, with bilingual staff, and will also host legal clinics to help families navigate their immigration situations.

He requested that the program’s contact information be shared carefully to avoid compromising its operations. The discussion then shifted to addressing the needs of students and families affected by migratory issues, with Diego highlighting the importance of providing support and understanding to these students.

Stephanie presented an overview of various literacy and math assessments used in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) across elementary, middle, and high school levels. She explained the purpose and frequency of assessments such as DIBELS, Math Growth, ELA district assessments, and state tests like MCAT. Stephanie introduced a new student reading improvement plan for kindergarten through second grade, which requires parental involvement and is updated annually. She also discussed the transition to more advanced assessments in middle and high school, emphasizing their role in preparing students for future academic challenges.

The meeting focused on discussing various assessment reports and scores provided by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Kecia Addison explained the MAP assessment reports and their distribution, noting that some parents were not receiving detailed breakdowns. Laura, the supervisor of testing, assessment, and data management, presented the MCAP reports, which include overall performance scores and breakdowns for literacy and math. The discussion also covered how these assessments relate to instructional practices and strategies, as well as concerns about disparities in test scores among different racial and ethnic groups. Participants asked questions about the scoring process, how to interpret the reports, and what actions are being taken to address test score disparities.

The meeting focused on reviewing student performance data, particularly for Black/African American students, which showed concerning proficiency rates of around 50% in English and declining performance in math from 40% in 3rd grade to 7.7% in 7th grade.

Dr. Lisa Gaillard-Jones, the new Associate Superintendent of Special Education, presenting the division’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities, including plans to address disproportionality and improve outcomes for students with disabilities. The meeting focused on MCPS’s challenges and strategies for improvement, particularly in student achievement, equity, and compliance. She highlighted that student proficiency rates are below state targets, achievement gaps persist, and pre-K readiness indicators are far below. The district plans to address these issues through professional learning opportunities, restorative justice training, and wrap-around partnerships. Byron inquired about the definition of success in meeting targets, and Dr. clarified that success means meeting or exceeding the state targets. The meeting also touched on the delay in data availability, which Dr. attributed to the time required to process and analyze the data for improvement planning.

Dr. Gaillard-Jones announced the launch of a newsletter in January to keep stakeholders informed about Specialized Services updates. The discussion addressed concerns about inclusion in language immersion programs, behavioral health services, and the potential impact of terminology on equity and inclusion. Participants also inquired about the integration of special education into MCPS’s current programs analysis and reading intervention plans. Dr. Gaillard-Jones committed to following up on several questions and survey information shared during the meeting.

Jeannie presented a one-sheeter with fall admission dates and program information for MCPS students, highlighting key deadlines and opportunities for various programs.

The Parent Council representatives discussed improving communication, with Kea announcing the creation of WhatsApp groups for different grade bands. Byron expressed a preference for traditional text messaging, and Kia encouraged others to help convince him to join the WhatsApp groups. SooAnn raised questions about MCPS’s Reading Intervention plans and Special Education programs, which Byron said he would follow up on.

The meeting covered several key topics. Byron shared information about the new Mecca Business Learning Institute charter school in Germantown, which has 200 students in 7th and 8th grade, with a focus on providing a structured environment and after-school programs.

 The group discussed a community mental health forum hosted by the Montgomery County NAACP on October 4th. Ro raised concerns about Turning Point’s outreach efforts in MCPS schools, particularly targeting middle schools, which the group agreed to investigate further. The conversation ended with a discussion about the upcoming boundary and program changes in MCPS, as well as virtual sessions for NEC and DCC families with 6th and 7th graders scheduled for September 29th and 30th.