During a recent Montgomery County Council Education and Culture Committee meeting, educators and union representatives voiced urgent concerns regarding the state of public education funding and staffing in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The discussions highlighted a growing frustration among educators about the lack of adequate investment from county officials, particularly in the wake of declining funding since the 2008 financial crisis.

Speakers emphasized the need for a transformational budget that prioritizes equity and adequately supports students, especially those from historically underserved communities, including English language learners and students with special needs. They called for increased mental health resources, smaller class sizes, and competitive compensation for educators to attract and retain quality staff.

Christopher Connell, Director of Political and Legislative Affairs for SEIU Local 500, outlined pressing issues faced by educational support staff, including a reliance on temporary part-time positions that undermine job security and morale. He pointed out that many paraeducators are classified as temporary part-time employees, which limits their access to benefits and professional development opportunities. This staffing model has led to significant vacancies, particularly in special education, which directly impacts the quality of education for vulnerable students.

Connell urged the council to address these staffing shortages and to ensure that all educational support staff receive a living wage, adequate hours, and professional development. He stressed that the working conditions of faculty and staff are directly linked to the learning conditions of students, and that underfunding exacerbates existing inequities within the school system.

Council members acknowledged the challenges presented, particularly the high vacancy rates for paraeducators and the need for full-time positions to provide consistent support for students. They expressed a commitment to addressing these issues in the upcoming budget cycle, recognizing that the quality of education in Montgomery County hinges on the support and resources allocated to its schools.

The meeting underscored a collective call to action for the council to prioritize educational funding and to collaborate with educators and support staff to create a sustainable and equitable educational environment for all students in the county.