June 30, 2024
On her last day, Interim Superintendent Dr. Monique Felder sent out the following email (Note that new Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor starts tomorrow):
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
Dear MCPS Colleagues and Families,
As I reflect on my tenure as the interim Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve this incredible district. MCPS has poured so much into my development, shaping me into a master teacher and a strong instructional leader. Returning to the district for such a time as this has truly been the blessing of a lifetime. It is not every day that one begins their career in a district as a teacher, serves in various leadership capacities, and returns more than 20 years later to sit in the superintendent’s seat. I remain deeply humbled and honored to have served in this capacity.
During my brief tenure, I focused on four key areas:
- Ensuring Every School Has a Strong Instructional Leader: We made significant progress in filling vacant principal positions, ensuring that each school has the leadership it needs to thrive and succeed.
- Emphasizing Teaching and Learning: Teaching and learning are the core goals of any school district. We placed a strong emphasis and focus on these areas to ensure that our students continue to receive the highest quality education they deserve and need.
- Improving Culture and Climate: No strategy can succeed in a poor culture and climate. We worked diligently to create a more positive environment where both students and staff can flourish.
- Preparing the Runway for the Next Superintendent: We made considerable strides in setting the stage for Dr. Taylor, the incoming superintendent.
Progress was made in all four areas, and I am confident that the district is on a stronger path forward through the collective effort of our dedicated staff and supportive families.
While today marks my last official day as the interim superintendent, I will remain available for the next couple of weeks to support the transition process. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the abundance of grace and support you have shown me during this time. Without question, there is still work to be done, but I am confident in the continued strength and resilience of MCPS. Based on my experience in several districts and my awareness of national trends, I can confidently say that MCPS remains one of the best school districts in the nation, and it will always have a special place in my heart.
I wish you all, and Dr. Taylor, the very best in the coming school year. Your success is the children’s success, and I am rooting for each and every one of you each and every day.
Still in service to children,
Monique T. Felder, Ph.D.
Interim Superintendent
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