During a recent Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) board meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the deteriorating conditions at Wootton High School and broader issues affecting school safety and funding.

A speaker highlighted the unacceptable state of facilities at Wootton High, citing student-created Instagram accounts that document severe problems such as broken toilets, ceiling leaks, and exposed wiring. The speaker urged the board to prioritize the Wootton High School Renovations project in the fiscal year 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to address these urgent issues.

Another speaker, John Chung, expressed pride in MCPS but criticized the reduction in the school safety budget starting in fiscal year 2027, especially in light of increasing threats. He pointed out a $39.3 million shortfall for the Charles Woodward project, attributing it to human error within MCPS. Chung emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, questioning how such a significant mistake could occur and its implications for future funding requests from the county council.

Chung also referenced a recent Inspector General report highlighting wasteful spending on an electric bus contract and a $300,000 settlement related to a sexual harassment lawsuit, raising concerns about the district's management and reputation. He called for the council to approve an additional $30.5 million in funding to ensure that MCPS can maintain its standards of excellence.

Board member Ms. Yang raised questions about communication protocols regarding safety reports and the timeline for addressing broken security cameras in schools. The board acknowledged the challenges posed by staff shortages in maintenance and the complexities involved in replacing outdated equipment.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from board members to address these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for improved communication and timely action to ensure the safety and well-being of students across the district.