MCPS Again Delays Return To In-Person Learning Due To COVID-19

ROCKVILLE, MD — Leaders in Maryland's largest school district have once again delayed the timeline for letting students back into classrooms.

The Montgomery County Board of Education voted 7-1 Tuesday to push back the start of in-person learning from Feb. 1 to at least March 15.

"I know this is difficult for some and for others they are relieved," MCPS Superintendent Dr. Jack Smith said. "I understand the emotions across this county. We think this makes the most sense at this point, though."

Rebecca Smondrowski was the only school board member to oppose the delay. She expressed concerns over the district's reopening plan, saying the school board should communicate more with the MCPS community about what to expect moving forward.

Under plans approved in December by the school board, students can return to their classrooms in phases if the 14-day positivity rate falls below 5 percent and the 14-day average for new cases per 100,000 residents does not exceed 15.

On Tuesday, the average number of new cases per 100,000 residents was 49.8 and the test positivity rate was 7.7 percent.

The school board will meet on Feb. 23 to decide whether they should reopen schools on March 15.

If those public health benchmarks are met, students in kindergarten to third grade, as well as some students in career and special education programs, will be the first to return to school.

"Even if we go in on March 15, it's important for people to understand that it's not like schools are suddenly going to throw open their doors and everyone is going to be back in school and it will be like it was before," Smith said. "Social distancing will be required. Masks will be required. COVID-19 will be with us on March 15. There's no doubt."