Skip to main content

Academic Programs Analysis

Survey Overview Policies and Regulations Boundary Study Information

Overview

MCPS is conducting a districtwide analysis of academic programs available to students.  The goal of the study is to ensure that all students have access to high-quality programs and that programs available meet the needs of our community, industry demands, and maximize the use of resources.

This work has begun at the secondary level.  The analysis includes middle and high school application regional and countywide magnet and lottery-based programs, Career and Technical Education programs, as well as access to Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Dual Enrollment courses.

A design team, made up of families, community members, and school-based staff are meeting now and will recommend what programs should be offered within a reasonable geographic area and what programs should be offered at all schools.  The design team will examine program data (where programs are located and who has access) as well as feedback from community surveys and meetings, industry demands, state requirements, and student focus groups to inform their recommendation.  MCPS will begin planning to implement the design team recommendations in June, 2025.

The program analysis is occurring alongside two boundary studies.  While the boundary studies determine a student’s home school in selected areas of the county, the programs analysis is districtwide and focused on equitable access to high-quality, high-demand programs.  Conducting both at the same time will ensure MCPS families can make fully informed decisions.

March 18 Board of Education Business Meeting:

Item 12.1 Boundary Studies
and Program Analysis Update

(beginning at 1:55:32)

April 10 Board of Education Business Meeting:

Item 7.1 Secondary Program Analysis Overview and
Boundary Studies Community Engagement Plan

(beginning at 1:15:08)

Overview of Secondary Program Analysis Timeline

Overview of Secondary Program Analysis Timeline

Secondary Program Analysis Core Considerations

  • Program realignment decisions must align to community identified needs and industry demands.
  • Strategic placement of programs should honor school traditions while providing equitable access and fostering innovation.

Equitable Access
  • All students should have access to relevant, high-quality programs that prepare them for the future at their school or within a reasonable distance.
  • Strong local schools that meet the needs and interests of the majority students are the foundation.

Communiity Needs & Industry Demand
  • Program realignment decisions must align to community identified needs and industry demands.
  • Strategic placement of programs schould honor school traditions while providing equitable access and fostering innovation.

Resource Efficiency
  • Realignment that includes replicating, sunsetting, or consolidating programs in strategic locations will maximinze resources.

Updates and Additional Information

Learn what academic programs each school offers - More coming soon

MCPS Policies and Regulations

Boundary Study Information

View Boundary Study Information