Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Joshua P. Starr has recommended a $2.4 billion operating budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, which includes $103.6 million in additional spending. Most of this increase will simply allow MCPS to provide the same services to a growing number of students and fund ongoing salaries, benefits, and operational costs. Dr. Starr is recommending $8.2 million in strategic investments aimed at closing the achievement gap and preparing students for success in the 21st century. One of the areas of focus in Dr. Starr's budget is improving the student support model to ensure the academic success and well-being of our children.
This is the third year of a multiyear budgeting strategy that makes specific investments in areas that will allow MCPS to manage its continued growth; narrow, and ultimately close, achievement gaps; and foster innovation to prepare students for the future. Over the past two years, MCPS has added positions and resources to improve student services by lowering caseloads and supporting the work of Coordinated Student Services Teams. These investments have included—
Among the FY 2016 investments Dr. Starr is recommending to further improve the student services model are—
You can learn more about the Superintendent's Recommended FY 2016 Operating Budget and how you can participate in the budget process by visiting the Budget website.