Upcoming FY 26 Budget and Key Dates

While the FY 25 budget process is past us, there is more you can and should do as we look ahead to the FY 26 budget. Every year we get a chance to provide input on how MCPS allocates its funding, and more voices are needed to represent the special education community.  It’s crucial to stay informed and involved in the process, because if we don’t show up we are forgotten. The next budget cycle is already underway, and here are some important dates you should keep in mind:

• July 25, 2024: The fiscal year 2026 operating budget kick-off meeting

• August through November 2024: The Superintendent’s Budget Advisory Committee met to review departmental requests and budget needs.

• December 2024: The Superintendent will present the recommended operating budget for FY 26. This is a key moment when we will see whether special education services are prioritized in the proposal.

• January 14, 23 and 30, 2025: The Board of Education will hold work sessions to discuss the budget in detail, including special education funding.

• February 4, 2025: The Board of Education will tentatively adopt the FY 26 operating budget, sending it to the County Executive and County Council for review.

• May 2025: The County Council will hold public hearings and ultimately approve the final budget.

These dates represent critical opportunities for us to advocate, provide feedback, and push for more substantial funding to meet the needs of our children. By attending public hearings, submitting written testimony, and engaging in advocacy efforts, we can work together to influence the outcome.

For more information, go to the MCPS Board of Education website.