Updates on High School Programs and Applications – October 2020

Many parents and students have inquired about the process and timeline for high school criteria-based application programs. The county is still working through details for many aspects of the process, but I wanted to share some newly available information and resources, and assure you that more will be coming soon.

• • The High School Programs page on the MCPS website is updated frequently as new information becomes available. 
  • MCPS has published a video overview of high school programs and the application process, linked here for your convenience:
    • • MCPS High School Regional/Countywide Application Programs Preview Virtual Session (English)
      • MCPS High School Regional/Countywide Application Programs Preview Virtual Session (Spanish)
      • Special programs are explored starting at 5:25, and the application process is addressed briefly at 24:10.
  • The universal application, which is used for all programs, will be available in ParentVUE on Synergy at the end of next week.
  • Personalized letters outlining each student’s eligibility for high school programs (based on location) will also be available in ParentVUE and StudentVUE at the end of next week.
  • A video/screencast tutorial about the application process is also slated for release at the end of next week. Instructional resources will be posted on the High School Programs page on the MCPS website. 
  • Right now, all parents should check ParentVUE for the following:
    • • Can you access ParentVUE to view your child/children’s information? 
        • If you are having trouble accessing ParentVUE, please contact Molly Murray, our staff development teacher, at molly_b_murray@mcpsmd.org. 
      • Is your home address correct in ParentVUE? 
        • Addresses are used to determine eligibility to regional programs. You can check this in the “My Account” tab in the upper right corner. If you need to make any changes, contact Connie Monte, our RCMS registrar, at connie_d_monte@mcpsmd.org.
  • The deadline for applications is November 6, 2020. Applications are to be completed online, and they can be adjusted—even after they are submitted—up until the deadline.
  • Teacher recommendations will be handled by the system. Students and parents do not need to request teacher recommendations.

Those are the updates so far; much more information will be forthcoming in the next few weeks. Thank you for your patience, and rest assured that we will share new information and updates with you as soon as we are able. If you have any questions, please contact Karen Rosemier, our magnet secretary, at karen_rosemier@mcpsmd.org. Take care, and be well!