By Adam Pagnucco.
Earlier today, Interim Superintendent Monique Felder sent out a mass email commenting on MCPS’s adjustments to school staffing. In the email, she discusses “a one-student-per-class increase across all grade levels,” “potential involuntary staff transfers” and an extension of the retirement deadline. She states, “Additionally, 21 central services employees have been impacted by these budget constraints and we continue to review further reductions in contracted services throughout the district.” And she says that the school system “remains committed to upholding all the negotiated agreements with our employee associations.”
I hope MCPS publishes a full list of adjustments by school. I’d be happy to publish it!
The school board will take final action on the budget plan developed by management on June 11.
Felder’s email is reprinted below.
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From: Montgomery County Public Schools <MontgomeryCountyPublicSchools@mcpsmd.org>
Sent: Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Subject: Operating Budget Update Concerning School Staffing Allocations – A Message from Interim Superintendent Dr. Monique Felder
Dear Colleagues,
Our teachers are a valuable and essential asset at Montgomery County Public Schools. Beyond instruction, you inspire and create lifetime experiences for our students. We are deeply grateful for the hard work you perform every day to support our students.
Today, we are writing to update you on the budget challenges facing MCPS. As shared in a previous message to the community, the final funding amount approved by Montgomery County Council has resulted in an FY 2025 Operating Budget deficit of approximately $30 million.
In the spirit of transparency, we want to share that school principals received an updated staffing report on Monday. This report reflects reductions based on a one-student-per-class increase across all grade levels.
Principals are currently reviewing these reports and will work with directors and associates to discuss the implications and to obtain support to identify potential involuntary staff transfers.
MCPS remains committed to upholding all the negotiated agreements with our employee associations. We also will be offering support to help affected employees navigate these transitions.
Employees affected by the staffing changes will be notified this week. The Board will take final action on the FY 2025 Operating Budget by June 11. Due to potential teacher turnover at the end of the school year, the exact number of impacted teachers may change slightly. The deadline to apply for retirement has been extended to June 6.
Additionally, 21 central services employees have been impacted by these budget constraints and we continue to review further reductions in contracted services throughout the district.
We understand that these are stressful and emotional circumstances, and we reiterate our deepest gratitude for your continued dedication and hard work. Please know that these decisions are in no way a reflection of employee commitment or the quality of the work. We remain committed to providing resources and support to help you navigate these changes.
Thank you for your understanding.
In service to children,
Monique T. Felder Ph.D.
Interim Superintendent of Schools