School To Remain In-Person, MOCO School Board Says

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Montgomery County Public Schools — like many districts across the country — has seen a recent rise in the number of COVID-19 cases. The School Board said on Dec. 20 that it is still committed to keeping kids in school for learning, instead of returning to a remote model.

There have been 390 students who tested positive in December, according to the district's COVID-19 dashboard. In November there were 299, in October there were 234 and in September there were 380.

“This past summer, our staff worked incredibly hard to be able to welcome students back to school five days a week for in-person instruction because we know that in-person learning is what is best for students,” said Monifa McKnight, acting superintendent, in a news release. “I am very grateful for the hard work of all staff, our partnership with our employee associations and our entire community to make this happen. We must do what is right for each and every one of our students and that is to teach, in-person.”

Starting in January, if 5 percent or more of unrelated students, teachers or staff (a minimum of 10 unrelated students, teachers or staff) test positive in a 14-day period, the schools and the Department of Health and Human Services will decide whether school should close for 14 days and begin virtual learning.

MCPS listed the following precautions that all members of the community can take:

Get the shot. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and available for everyone ages 5 and older.

Get the booster shot. The third shot to ensure you are sufficiently protected is now available for everyone 16 and above.

Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth whenever you are in an MCPS building or in public buildings.

Wash your hands frequently before and after eating or touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Say Yes to the Test. Give permission for the random and rapid COVID-19 screening programs in MCPS schools. This is critical to identifying cases and reducing the number of students in quarantine.

Socialize outdoors. If you meet with others indoors, avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces. See more recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Planning to travel? Know what the CDC has to say about how to do that safely.