The New Mark Commons Board of Directors voted on November 2, 2017 to support efforts of our residents in opposing the Montgomery County School Superintendent’s recommendation for the new elementary school in our cluster that is designated as Richard Montgomery Elementary #5 (RMES #5). RMES #5 is the elementary school that New Mark’s children are slated to attend.
The Superintendent’s Recommendation for RMES #5 has a 53% student population eligible for Free And Reduced Meals (FARMS). This recommendation is not consistent with findings in many studies regarding economic diversity in schools and MCPS policy to ensure diversity in schools. The recommendation creates the potential for a substantial achievement gap for all students at RMES #5 as compared to other schools in our cluster.
In response to building opposition against the Superintendent’s recommendation, MCPS School Board passed a resolution last week to study two different modified options for the school boundary. They are also re-checking population growth projections. We must keep the pressure on and insist on #Diversity@25 (New Mark Commons Supports a 25% FARMS rate spread throughout the schools in our cluster).
We are encouraging NMC residents to attend the public hearings that are happening this week and to bring signs that read #Diversity@25 to help identify our group. The more letters received and people who attend hearings will make an impact.
Public hearings are on the following dates:
- Monday, November 6, 2017; 6:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 8, 2017; 6:30 p.m.
- Thursday, November 16, 2017; 6:30 p.m.
- Location: Carver Educational Services Center Auditorium,
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD
MCPS is also having a work session:
- Tuesday, November 14, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
- Location: Carver Educational Services Center Auditorium,
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD
Further reading:
Superintendent’s recommendation
Pat Reber’s article in the NMC web site