In January 2015, the Board of Education commissioned a comprehensive study of the wide variety of choice and other special academic programs that Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) offers. The goal of the study was to determine if these programs effectively advance the MCPS mission, purpose, values, and core competencies.

The study included MCPS’ full and partial language immersion programs at the elementary and middle school levels, the elementary school center program for highly gifted students, magnet and other application programs with selective admissions criteria at the middle and high school levels, the schools in the three regional consortia (Northeast, Downcounty, and Middle School Magnet Consortium), as well as the Change of School Assignment process.

The findings and recommendations in the study are based on input from stakeholders, including staff, students, parents/guardians, and community members; a survey of scholarly research and practices in other districts; a review of an extensive collection of historical documents; and consultation with experts.

Over the next several months, MCPS will engage with the community and work to develop a plan to address the report’s findings and recommendations. Working together, we are confident that we can enhance our choice programs and broaden access to more students in accordance with our commitment to equity and excellence.

We encourage you to review the report, below, and share your feedback.

Note: The findings and recommendations in this study will not affect the application process for choice and other special programs currently under way for the 2016–2017 school year.

Read the memorandum about the Choice Study Report from Interim Superintendent Larry A. Bowers.

Overview

• Executive Summary and District-Level Findings  
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Complete Report

• Complete Report of Findings and Recommendations