A dangerous misconception is circulating that the proposed program changes will not change or affect current programs; it will only add new programs. 

By the nature of the proposed changes and our programs, this is a dangerous misconception. The strength of the SMCS program lies predominantly in two areas:

(1) The “critical mass” effect of gifted learners (whose demonstrated needs, rather than interest level or MAP scores) coming together in an environment to learn from like minded individuals. 

(2) The advanced, integrated coursework that was built through teachers being given ample extra time and resources to design a coherent and rigorous educational experience. 

The inherent “six regions” model inherently disrupts point (1). In Board meetings, MCPS has failed to adequately identify with any specificity the plan and budget for program design, professional development, curricular integration, and teacher planning time, which suggests that the new programs will struggle to meet criteria (2). 

I therefore encourage all of you: contact the Board of Education at BOETestimony@mcpsmd.org with one clear message: the special programs work because they are limited in nature, and by virtue of the resources formerly allocated to them. Preserve the “critical mass” effect that has proven so successful for gifted learners with atypical needs, and restore the dedicated equipment, planning, and release period budgets for these programs so they may continue to meet the needs of their learners as these needs change and evolve. 

For those in the community who are not directly connected to the SMCS program but are supporting the effort, I thank you for your support. I encourage you to listen to the recent episode of “I Hate Politics” podcast which takes a deep dive into what made the special programs successful over the years, and the challenge with the MCPS proposed model.