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ROCKVILLE, Md., Dec. 11, 2025—Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando released the following statement:
“As chair of the Montgomery County Council's Education and Culture Committee I have heard from hundreds of parents, teachers, and neighbors in Silver Spring who have serious concerns about the proposed closure of Silver Spring International Middle School (SSIMS) and relocation of Sligo Creek Elementary School (SCES) in the Superintendent's recommended Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Capital Budget and FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program.
“The timeline from announcement to Board vote—just five weeks—did not provide adequate time for meaningful community engagement. The affected families, students, teachers, and neighbors deserve substantive consultation before decisions of this magnitude are made. This is about ensuring we make the right decisions for our children and community.
“I recognize that MCPS faces real challenges with aging facilities and the need for holding schools during renovations. However, a proposal involving the closure of a middle school, relocation of an elementary school, and $281 million in capital investments requires careful consideration, accurate data, genuine community input, and clear answers to legitimate questions.
“The County Council will conduct a thorough review of this capital budget. County Executive Elrich will present his recommendations on Jan. 15, and the Council will make the final decision. This process must allow sufficient time for proper community engagement and transparency. The Silver Spring community deserves to have its voices heard and concerns addressed before the County moves forward.
“I encourage all concerned residents to continue advocating for their schools.”
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