Montgomery County Council proposes $3.6B budget to support public schools

Montgomery County Council President Kate Stewart announced a significant funding proposal for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) during a press conference on May 14, 2025. This initiative aims to address the fiscal challenges faced by the school system while ensuring essential services remain intact for the community.

Stewart highlighted the collaborative efforts of the County Council, Board of Education President Julie Yang, and Schools Superintendent Thomas Taylor in crafting a budget that supports students, families, and educators. The proposed plan allocates over $3.6 billion for the upcoming fiscal year, with a county investment of $2.4 billion. Notably, it includes a one-time funding strategy that allows MCPS to draw $50 million in fiscal year 2025 and an additional $25 million in fiscal year 2026 from the retirement health benefit trust. This approach is designed to help the school system manage retiree benefits and cash flow issues while addressing escalating healthcare costs.

The funding proposal represents 99.8% of the amount requested by the Board of Education, with a county contribution exceeding the required maintenance of effort level by $210 million. Stewart acknowledged the difficult decisions made by the council in recent weeks, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a budget without increasing income taxes, which would alleviate financial pressure on residents.

Both Yang and Taylor expressed gratitude for the council's support, underscoring the importance of collaboration in navigating the current economic uncertainties. They emphasized that while this funding is a temporary solution, it provides critical time for MCPS to evaluate and plan for long-term sustainability.

The council's decision comes amid broader discussions about potential income tax increases, which were considered but ultimately set aside in favor of this collaborative funding approach. The council aims to ensure that Montgomery County remains a thriving community, capable of supporting its families and educational institutions during these challenging times.

As the council prepares to finalize the budget, the focus remains on fostering partnerships and addressing the needs of the community effectively.