Montgomery County Schools Revamp Student Code Amid Equity Focus
Concerns Over Updated Student Code of Conduct in Montgomery County
Montgomery County is currently facing concerns regarding the updated student code of conduct implemented by the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Community groups are actively working to ensure that the discipline policies do not disproportionately affect Black and Latino students. These groups believe that the new policies may lead to increased suspensions and expulsions, which could have long-term negative impacts on these students’ academic performance.
More than twelve different community organizations have sent an email to MCPS, urging them to prioritize alternative approaches to traditional punishments. The groups emphasized the importance of incorporating restorative practices into the school system’s policies. They also requested a clear plan to help students who are suspended catch up on missed instruction, ensuring they do not fall behind academically.
7News reached out to Dorien Rogers from Young People for Progress to understand how the updated code of conduct might negatively impact Black and Latino students, as well as those with disabilities. Rogers highlighted the potential consequences of these policies, stating:
“When we talk about intersecting experiences of these Black and brown students, they intersect to then lead them to be out of the classrooms, which means less time with academic study,” Rogers said.
MCPS’s Perspective on the Update
MCPS explained that the goal of updating the student code of conduct is to re-establish higher expectations for student behavior. The changes aim to create a more structured environment where students understand what is expected of them. School system leaders recently met with the Montgomery County Council’s Education and Culture Committee to review the proposed updates.
The priorities outlined in the new code include clearly communicating behavioral expectations, increasing student accountability, and promoting restorative justice. Restorative justice serves as an alternative to traditional punishments, focusing on rebuilding relationships rather than imposing strict penalties.
One of the key policy changes involves harsher penalties for certain infractions, such as drug possession. This has raised concerns among community advocates, who fear that these measures could disproportionately affect marginalized student populations.
Language Accessibility and Community Feedback
Rogers expressed disappointment that the initial version of the student code of conduct was only available in English. He pointed out the challenges this poses for non-English-speaking families:
“What if English is not your first language and you’re breaking this down for your parents, so that way, as a student, you’re holding yourself accountable? That’s the contradiction students are calling out for MCPS,” he said.
During a recent council work session, Dr. Norman Coleman, Director of the Department of Student Conduct and Appeals, addressed the delay in making the document available in multiple languages. He explained that the translation process was underway and assured the community that the document would soon be available in six languages.
“It’s actually going through translation. So, those copies should be released soon,” he said.
7News verified that the Code of Conduct for the 2025-26 school year is now accessible in seven languages. The document can be read online, providing greater accessibility for all families.
Ongoing Dialogue and Future Steps
The dialogue surrounding the updated student code of conduct continues to evolve as community members and school officials engage in discussions about its implications. While MCPS emphasizes the need for clear expectations and accountability, advocates stress the importance of equitable treatment and support for all students.
As the school system moves forward with implementing the new policies, it remains crucial to address concerns about fairness and accessibility. Ensuring that all students, regardless of background or language, have equal opportunities to succeed is a central goal for both the school system and the community.
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