A Letter from Superintendent
Dr. Monifa B. McKnight

October 21, 2022

Dear MCPS Families: 

I am writing to update you on our school district’s safety and security protocols, and our ongoing efforts to communicate about emergency situations. 

MCPS principals and assistant principals have been participating in updated safety and security protocol training. These same updates have been communicated to all school staff members, so that consistent safety procedures are used and understood across the district. As we continue to evaluate our processes and work together, schools will contact families about any revised procedures so that you know what to expect and when to expect it during an emergency situation. In November, principals will share information with PTAs and other community groups about safety and security protocols.

In a district of our size—with 210 schools, more than 160,00 students and more than 25,000 employees—serious incidents will inevitably occur. As we confront them, we must ensure that students, parents, families and community members are aware of our emergency management and communications processes. 

As a parent of an elementary school student, I know what it’s like to receive that call, text or email from my child’s school notifying families of an emergency situation. As the superintendent, I am committed to ensuring that families, staff and students receive the same sort of notification, clarity and assurance from their schools that I want from my own child’s school; that I wanted as a teacher in this district; and that I sought to provide as a principal. When an emergency strikes, there is a lot we do not know. But one of the tools to alleviate anxiety is to share what we do know as we can verify the information.

We will continue to work collaboratively with school communities to understand what works for them. 

Thank you for your continued support. 

Sincerely, 

Monifa B. McKnight, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools