8108 Sandy Spring Rd
Laurel, MD 20707

I am extremely concerned about the leadership and overall direction of this school. There appears to be a significant disconnect between administration and the day-to-day realities affecting both students and staff. The current leadership has been in place since the school opened, yet meaningful progress and accountability remain noticeably absent.It is deeply troubling that student performance challenges are consistently attributed solely to parents, with little acknowledgment of the school’s own standards, instructional quality, or leadership responsibility. Effective leadership requires shared accountability, transparency, and a commitment to measurable improvement — all of which appear to be lacking.Messaging such as “Just show up” reflects a concerningly low expectation standard and does not align with the level of academic rigor and commitment our children deserve. Students should be encouraged to strive for excellence, not minimal participation.Additionally, there seems to be a misalignment of priorities. While community initiatives and fundraising efforts can be valuable, they should never overshadow the fundamental responsibility of providing a safe, accountable, and high-quality educational environment.At this time, the school’s trajectory feels unsustainable. Families entrust this institution with their children’s education and well-being, and that trust must be earned through competent leadership, clear standards, and demonstrated results. Significant change is necessary to restore confidence and create the environment our students deserve.

The teachers are rude in this school, the principal is rude too! They will scare students and parents away from here!

I am writing this on behalf of my granddaughter who is in the 7th grade at MLK Middle School in Laurel. She came over after school today saying that only two of her regular teachers were at school today. There were fights in a classroom and in the gym between students with little or no supervision. some students were hurt.Two of her teachers are out for two weeks. One substitute called in six, no replacement available and one teacher arrived 30 min late. There are often fights in the gym and on busses. I discovered that my granddaughter is now being taught algebra but does not know her multiplication tables due to Covid and poor teaching. As I a retired teacher with almost 30yrs experience I am sad, angry, and appalled at what has happened at this school!!