School Year 2026–2027

Montgomery County Public Schools Guidance

Essential operational updates and expectations for instructional continuity.

1

thermostat

STEP 1

The inclement weather team tracks weather patterns and traffic conditions.

2

groups

STEP 2

The inclement weather team assembles to begin discussions.

3

sync_alt

STEP 3

The inclement weather team continues to track and benchmark with surrounding districts and county agencies.

4

fact_check

STEP 4

A decision is made based on research, analysis, and recommendations from the Inclement Weather Team.

5

campaign

STEP 5

A decision is communicated to students, staff, and families.

MCPS Website

Includes translation features to support multilingual access for all families and staff members. MCPS School Closings

Direct Messaging & Phone

Email, text messages, automated phone calls, ParentSquare posts, and local school standard communication channels.

Social Media Platforms

Official announcements shared via Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

TV & Radio Outlets

Major local television and radio stations broadcast operational decisions promptly.

During operational changes resulting in delayed openings, closures, or virtual instructional days, MCPS will continue to provide regular updates. Information regarding reopening and the return to in-person instruction will also be shared promptly.

We will still have Traditional Snow Days!

Transitioning to VIRTUAL LEARNING is considered when:

Schools will implement a virtual instruction two-hour delay bell schedule:

Live Instruction & Platforms

• LIVE (synchronous) instruction & attendance taken in Synergy
• Access virtual learning platforms) via Clever

Student Support & Flexibility

• Opportunities to make up missed work
• Services and supports offered
• Maximize flexibility and fairness for all students

Assessments Policy

• NO district or state assessments

Chromebook Requests

Students will need access to a device for the live (synchronous) instruction on virtual instruction days.

Chromebooks for At-Home Use

• Click here to request a Chromebook for at home student use if needed.

Note: Devices requested will be delivered to the school for distribution to students and are to be kept at home and used in accordance with MCPS policy IGT-RA.

MiFi Internet Devices

• Contact your school principal to request a MIFI device for your household if needed.

Emergency Meal Service Overview & Guidelines

Service & Distribution Timeline

• Day 3 Activation: Emergency meals will first be provided starting on Day 3 of school closures.
• Distribution Sites: A limited number of pre-identified sites throughout the county may open based on safety, accessibility, deliveries, staffing, and utilities.

Important Student Eligibility

Distribution is restricted ONLY to students enrolled at that specific school.

• Meal sites will NOT be open to all students across the district.
• State waiver rules strictly require students to be enrolled at the operating meal site school to receive meals.

Note: Day 1 and Day 2 will alternate. Teachers will use their daily schedule to determine whether they have specials on a Day 1 or Day 2 depending on the day of the week.