Montgomery County expands early education programs with new Judy Center at Weller Road

Montgomery County's early childhood education programs are set to expand significantly, following a recent meeting of the Health and Human Services and Education Committee. The discussions highlighted the county's commitment to enhancing school readiness for young children, particularly through the introduction of new Judy Centers and improvements in existing pre-kindergarten programs.

The meeting revealed that Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) currently serves a total of 2,182 children in general pre-kindergarten, alongside 633 in Head Start and 200 in special education pre-k programs. The newly established Judy Center at Weller Road Elementary School will join the existing two centers, providing essential family support and early learning activities for children from birth to kindergarten. These centers are strategically located in Title 1 areas, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in child development.

Officials noted that the Judy Centers play a crucial role in preparing families for school, offering resources that help parents understand child development and engage in age-appropriate learning activities. The expansion of these centers aligns with the county's early learning standards and has received positive feedback from the Maryland State Department of Education.

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 school year, MCPS anticipates an increase in both the quantity and quality of available seats in early childhood education. Plans include converting some part-day pre-k seats to full-day options, allowing children to benefit from longer instructional time. The county aims to serve more families through its programs, particularly as the new Judy Center becomes fully operational.

As the county prepares to reapply for the Head Start grant, officials are focused on maintaining high-quality educational experiences for all children, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their transition into formal schooling. The meeting underscored the importance of early education and community support in fostering a strong foundation for future learning.