During a recent Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the state of facilities and the ongoing delays in capital improvement projects, particularly at Magruder High School and Northwood High School.

Magruder representatives expressed frustration over the removal of their major capital improvement project from the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which has left their facility in a state of disrepair. Community members highlighted issues such as inadequate practice spaces for athletic teams, poor lighting, and safety hazards around the school premises. The student vice president of the Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), Eva Hernandez, shared personal experiences of injuries sustained by athletes due to unsuitable practice conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for facility upgrades.

Bridgette Howe, president of the Montgomery County Council of PTAs, echoed these sentiments, calling for a commitment from MCPS to address a staggering $1.1 billion maintenance backlog, including $385 million specifically for HVAC repairs. Howe criticized the lack of clear communication from MCPS regarding the CIP shortfall and urged for a transparent process to assess and document facility conditions.

At Northwood High School, concerns were raised about ongoing construction delays and safety issues, including unfinished entrances and inadequate lighting in staff parking areas. Laura Nichols, president of the Northwood Athletics Association, described the challenges faced by students and staff due to the construction zone, which has also led to program disruptions, particularly in theater and athletics.

Both schools' representatives called for immediate action to address these pressing issues, emphasizing that the current state of facilities is detrimental to student safety and educational experiences. The meeting underscored a growing demand for accountability and timely improvements in school infrastructure to better serve the community's needs.