MCPS Board Addresses Carver Facility Issues and Arts Program Equity

The Montgomery County Board of Education convened on September 4, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting local schools, particularly focusing on facility conditions and program funding. The meeting began with a discussion led by board member Mr. McAllister, who highlighted ongoing concerns regarding mold and deteriorating facilities at Carver School. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan to address these health-related issues and requested updates on the Facility Condition Index (FCI) scores for both Carver and Northlake schools.

Following this, Ms. Montoya expressed her gratitude to attendees and reiterated the importance of understanding budget allocations for music and performing arts programs. She requested information on staffing ratios and professional development opportunities, acknowledging the challenges faced by students due to outstanding instrument repairs.

The board also heard from Ms. Rivera Alden, who thanked student Asha for her testimony recognizing the contributions of special education paraeducators. She affirmed the board's commitment to enhancing training and support for these essential staff members, particularly in light of the challenges they face.

The discussion then shifted back to the conditions at Carver, with board members acknowledging the poor working environment and the impact it has on staff health. They agreed on the necessity of including improvements in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to ensure a better working environment for educators.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to support the arts and equity in educational programs, reflecting the board's dedication to addressing both facility issues and the equitable distribution of resources across various educational programs. The board plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, ensuring that the concerns raised are addressed effectively.