Board approves Perkins grant, special education plan and $1.9 million supplemental appropriation for facilities

At its April 20 meeting the Montgomery County School Board approved several consent and action items: the 2026–2027 Perkins Strengthening Career and Technical Education grant application, the MCPS special education annual plan, and a supplemental capital appropriation totaling $1,899,150 for immediate facility needs.

Why it matters: the Perkins grant supports CTE programs that prepare students for careers; the special education annual plan formalizes services and compliance for students with disabilities; and the capital appropriation addresses immediate facility risks and maintenance needs that could affect safety and program continuity.

Perkins grant and special education plan: The board voted unanimously to approve the Perkins grant application and the MCPS special education annual plan, each brought forward after prior review. Dr. Julie Legan, director of special education, noted the plan was previously presented on March 17.

Supplemental appropriation: Dr. Mike Brown, director of facilities, requested funds to purchase long-lead HVAC equipment for Auburn Elementary, repair dugouts at Blacksburg High School (estimated contractor cost $15,350), commission an evaluation of a significant sinkhole at Blacksburg High, and pay for an electrical panel evaluation at Shawsville Middle School. Finance staff explained that after the requested appropriation there would still be approximately $1 million remaining in interest-bearing bond funds and other project reserves to finish the Christiansburg High School project this summer.

Motion and outcome: the board authorized the supplemental appropriation of $1,899,150 by roll call (seven in favor). The board also approved the Perkins application and the special education plan by unanimous roll calls.

What happens next: facilities will proceed with procurement and scheduling for the listed projects, and a further appropriation request for the remainder of the Auburn HVAC project will return in August 2026.