Montgomery County Public School students return to school

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) – Class is back in session in Montgomery County.

On Tuesday, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) kicked off the new school year as more than 160,000 students returned to the classroom.

There was a lot of excitement in Germantown at Northwest High School for the first day of school. MCPS leaders, parents and students gathered before the school day started to help welcome students back.

“The beginning of the school year is all about fresh starts,” MCPS Board of Education President Julie Yang said. “A fresh start for students, for staff and for our families.”

“Here at Northwest, the community feel, and the sense of community is so strong,” Northwest High School Principal Scott Smith said. “Kids come in with an excitement and I’m just excited about the day.”

Thomas Taylor is entering his second year as MCPS superintendent.

“We really feel like we’re set up for success today and know that this is going to be a really good year,” Taylor said.

Northwest High School senior and Student Government Association (SGA) President Peter Boyko is eager to get started. He wants to make his last year a memorable one.

“I’ve made some of my closest friends here at Northwest High School,” Boyko said, “I’m just excited to continue building those friendships, continue having spirit at football games or events and making new friends.”

Many parents are also anxious. Montgomery County Council Vice President Will Jawando has four children—each attending a different school.

“My hope is that they will just explore and that they will just become more of who they are,” Jawando said. “That’s really what education is about—exploring what you’re interested in, learning in a safe, welcoming environment.”

MCPS staff have high hopes for the new year.

“Students, we’re excited to have you,” Taylor said. “We can’t wait to see what you’re going to accomplish this year. Thank you so much for coming to Montgomery County Public Schools.”