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School Year Begins with Excitement—and Serious Bus Delays

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On August 26, 2026

In Announcements, School

Congratulations to all our PGCPS parents, students, teachers and school staff on the first day of the new school year! The beginning of school is always an exciting time, filled with new opportunities, new friendships and fresh hopes for the year ahead. Unfortunately, for many Prince George’s County families, that excitement was accompanied by serious school bus problems.

Several parents have reached out to us to report that their children’s buses arrived as much as an hour late. Other families said their buses did not arrive at all or that they could not find accurate route and arrival information. These delays created understandable worry for parents and caused some students to arrive late or miss school.

According to WUSA9⁠, approximately 10,000 PGCPS students did not have assigned bus routes on the first day of classes. Other local news reports said the district’s new Chipmunk bus-tracking and routing system experienced technical problems, leaving some parents unable to track buses or receive reliable updates.

PGCPS acknowledged that some families experienced significant transportation challenges and apologized to those who did not receive safe and reliable service. School officials attributed the difficulties to the transition to the new routing system and the large number of new and late student enrollments. The district said it has added staff to help finalize routes and correct transportation problems.

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Families should check both ParentVUE and the Chipmunk app for their child’s official route, stop and pickup time. Those without an assignment may also use the district’s BusPlanner tool to locate the closest eligible stop. For assistance, parents can contact PGCPS Transportation at 301-952-6570 or transportation@pgcps.org. Additional information is available on the PGCPS transportation update page⁠.

The first few days of school can bring adjustments, but delays of an hour—or buses not arriving at all—place a tremendous burden on families. This is especially difficult for parents who cannot drive their children or leave work unexpectedly. Safe, dependable and timely transportation is essential to a child’s education. We hope PGCPS will resolve these problems quickly, provide frequent and accurate updates, and explain what steps will be taken to prevent the same problems from happening again.

Standing Up for Paint Branch Chinese Immersion: City Council Takes Action

By

On February 23, 2026

In Paint Branch Elementary School, School

At tomorrow’s Mayor and Council meeting, the City Council will consider Action Item 26-G-21, a letter of support urging continued funding for the Paint Branch Elementary School Chinese Immersion Program. This action reflects ongoing concerns from College Park families about proposed school budget changes that would eliminate the Chinese Immersion pathway and significantly reduce language immersion opportunities for students.

The Chinese Immersion Program at Paint Branch has long been a valued educational option for families in our community. It offers students the chance to develop strong language skills, cultural awareness, and global competency from an early age, and it connects to continuing immersion opportunities through middle and high school. Many parents have shared that the program is not simply an enrichment option — it is a defining part of the school’s identity and a key reason families choose to live and stay in College Park.

Recent parent survey results help illustrate the strength of support. As suggested by Senator Rosapepe and approved by Mr. Hendershot, a survey was distributed to families to understand how many would remain in Chinese Immersion if given the choice. Out of 116 responses, 85.3% of families said they want to stay in the program, while only 7.8% said they would opt out, and 6.9% were unsure. These results clearly show overwhelming parent interest in maintaining the program.

Families were also asked whether the presence of the Chinese Immersion program influenced their decision to move to or remain in College Park. The responses were telling: 59.5% said yes, and another 13.8% said it was one of several reasons. That means nearly three-quarters of responding families identified the program as an important factor in their housing and community decisions. These numbers highlight that immersion education is not only an academic benefit — it also plays a meaningful role in attracting and retaining families in our city.

Community advocacy has also been strong. At last week’s public hearing at the Board of Education budget hearing, 30 parents, students, and community members testified in support of language immersion and IB programs, while opposing proposals that would shift funding away from these educational pathways. In addition, 62 written testimonies were submitted prior to the hearing, and more than 150 residents attended as listeners, demonstrating broad community engagement and concern.

The proposed City Council letter does not make the funding decision — that authority rests with the Prince George’s County Board of Education — but it allows the City to formally advocate on behalf of our families and students. Supporting high-quality, globally relevant educational opportunities aligns with our City’s broader goals of strengthening education, supporting families, and maintaining College Park as a welcoming and competitive community.

If you would like to show your support, residents are encouraged to sign and share the community petition calling on school leaders to protect language immersion programs:

➡️ Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/save-pgcps-language-immersion-programs

Our schools matter to our families, our neighborhoods, and the future of College Park. Thank you to everyone who continues to engage respectfully and advocate for strong educational opportunities for all students.

Back to School Immunization Clinics

By

On August 29, 2023

In School

The Prince George’s County Health Department is pleased to announce the launch of its highly anticipated back-to-school flu and immunization clinic initiative, which aims to prioritize the health and well-being of students as they prepare to return to the classroom for the upcoming school year. In addition, a device like an oxygen concentrator can aid in immunization clinics against flu by ensuring that patients with respiratory issues receive adequate oxygen support during the vaccination process, promoting their comfort and safety while enhancing the efficiency of the clinic’s operations. Parents may also consider giving vitamin patches and supplements to their children to boost their immunity.

The Health Department offers comprehensive services, including routine childhood immunizations to protect against childhood diseases, and COVID-19 vaccinations. Also, flu shots will be available for County residents aged six months and older. Services are offered to residents with limited or no health insurance. Additionally, the clinics operate on a sliding fee scale based on income, ensuring every child can access essential vaccines regardless of their financial situation. Furthermore, for those who value flexibility and privacy, discreet braces for adults and teens from a private clinic have become a popular option. With custom solutions tailored to each individual, this treatment allows you to maintain confidence while working towards a straighter smile. They are both subtle and effective, offering a great alternative to traditional orthodontic treatments.

The Health Department remains steadfast in ensuring every child can access the necessary vaccines for a successful school year. This year, the Health Department is offering extended weekend and evening hours for the back-to-school clinics.

Health Department Immunization Back-to-School Clinic Schedule:

  1. The Cheverly Health Center (3003 Hospital Drive, Cheverly, MD 20785) offers back-to-school immunizations:
  • Mondays – Fridays
    9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Extended Evening Hours:
    Tuesday, September 5 – Friday, September 8
    Tuesday, September 12 – Friday, September 15
    4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Extended Weekend Hours:
    Saturday, September 9
    Saturday, September 16
    9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  1. The Maternal and Child Health Center at Laurel (14207 Park Center Drive, Suite 102, Laurel, MD 20707) offers back-to-school immunizations:
  • Mondays – Fridays
    10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Health Department 2023-2024 Flu Clinic Schedule:

  1. Wednesday, October 4, 2023
    St. Vincent Pallotti High School
    113 St Mary’s Place
    Laurel, MD 20707
    9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  2. Thursday, October 5, 2023
    Greenbelt Community Center
    15 Crescent Road
    Greenbelt, MD 20770
    10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  3. Thursday, October 12, 2023
    Springhill Lake Recreation Center
    6101 Cherrywood Lane
    Greenbelt, MD 20770
    1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  4. Cheverly Health Department
    3003 Hospital Drive
    Cheverly, MD 20785
    Mondays – Fridays
    9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

 

The Health Department’s back-to-school immunization clinics are by appointment only. To make an appointment, please visit the immunization clinic scheduling portal. Parents or legal guardians must bring a copy of all your child’s immunization (shots) records. For additional information, visit the Health Department website here:  health.mypgc.us/Immunizations

Help Keep Our Children Safe

By

On May 10, 2023

In School

Our local elementary school children often cross busy and unsafe intersections as they go to school. These intersections don’t have crossing guards to help them crossing these intersections. If you know anyone looking to take part-time crossing guard jobs, please let them know. Details are in the flyer.

Advocating to Improve Our Local Schools

By

On February 3, 2023

In School

Yesterday was the deadline to submit requests for our local schools in the PGCPS’s FY24 school budget. Based on the feedback I received from the wonderful school community, I submitted the following requests to be included in the budget for Hollywood Elementary School.
1. Funding for Before & After Care tutoring service at Hollywood for the school students to help strengthen subject comprehension, boost confidence, and build essential learning skills. It appears that PGCPS provides similar programs at other schools in its jurisdictions: Child Care Programs (pgcps.org)
2. Funding to purchase an electronic School Marquee to better communicate with the school community.
3. Funding to help improve the school’s curbside appeal to the school grounds and make the school appear more attractive.
4. Funding to build school signs at different entry locations to help improve the safety of the school children.
The City has a longstanding partnership with Hollywood Elementary through various programs the City supports. Every year, we provide grants for specialized school programs. Additionally, last year, the City provided funding for supplemental individualized literacy services for 29 students for a full school year. To help improve the safety of the school children, we’ve also recently worked on new traffic patterns and signs on the nearby City streets. The City is also working to implement an online tutoring program for College Park’s students. Students can go to www.fernstudium-infomaterial.de if they want to explore more courses.

Council Asks County Exec and PGCPS to Restore Crossing Guards at Hollywood Elementary School

By

On February 2, 2023

In School

At last Tuesday’s meeting, the Council approved a letter to the Prince George’s County Executive and the Chief Executive Officer for Prince George’s County Public Schools requesting Crossing Guards for Hollywood Elementary School. The Prince George’s Police Department manages the crossing guard program, and in the past, City staff reached out to PGPD multiple times on this matter but without any effect. We hope this letter to the County Executive and the PGCPS CEO, Dr. Goldson, will make a difference.

PG County School Moves to Virtual Again until January 14

By

On December 18, 2021

In School

Hollywood Elementary School

Yesterday, the PG County school system announced to take all classes to virtual until January 14.

The statement reads “In light of the stark rise in COVID-19 cases throughout our school system, all students will transition to virtual learning, effective Monday, December 20 through Thursday, December 23. Winter Break will proceed as scheduled, Friday, December 24 through Friday, December 31, and virtual learning will continue Monday, January 3 through Friday, January 14. In-person learning will resume Tuesday, January 18, following the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday; students in the K-6 Virtual Learning Program will return Monday, January 31.

Over the past few days, I have remained in daily contact with the Prince George’s County Health Department regarding appropriate steps for maintaining safe environments across more than 200 school communities. Educators, administrators and support staff must be able to deliver in-person instruction and other activities in conditions that prioritize their own health, as well as the wellbeing of the school community. The increased positivity rates have significantly challenged the ability to do so, causing anxiety among many school communities and disruption to the school day.”

Earlier, the PGCPS closed 3 schools, until January due to COVID infections

 

City to Send Letter to Prince George’s County School Board Regarding Bus Transportation

By

On January 13, 2020

In School

At tomorrow’s Council meeting, the Council will consider approving a letter with its concerns about school bus transportation.

There have been many reports of buses not picking up students or being chronically late to bring or return students from the school. This critical situation is a public safety issue, prevents students from learning, and is a disruption to all students in the school.

Recently a group of parents sent a petition from over 350 County residents who are concerned about the current situation. Currently, the school board has brought together a task force that is looking at the issue both in the short and long term.

The letter asks (1) to evaluate and ensure proper use of the app called “Here Comes the Bus (2) to ensure all bus drivers understand their rout (3) to coordinate with school, administration to ensure attendance policies do not wrongfully punish students whose day is disrupted by a late bus (4) to ensure that all students whose bus is late still have the option to eat breakfast

Parents Share Concerns about County School Bus System

By

On January 4, 2020

In Announcements, School

A group of College Park school parents has started an online petition asking the Prince George’s County Board of Education to address the school transportation issue. According to the petition, School-age children are repeatedly left standing at bus stops until well after school has started. The schools do not fully take into consideration these tardies that are not their responsibility.

It looks like these issues are somewhat caused by a school bus driver shortage issue that the PGCPS is experiencing for some time. PGPCPS still needs to hire about 100-150 drivers to fully staff the 97 of the 1,142 routes that don’t currently have assigned drivers. PGCPS is holding bi-weekly job fairs to fill the positions, however, they are fighting an uphill battle to attract candidates who are taking their expertise to Metro or other local school systems. Unfortunately, other neighboring school systems are also facing a driver shortage issue to some degree.

A few months back, the PGCPS CEO Dr. Goldson issued the following statement about the scheduling issues: “Your child’s bus route does not currently have an assigned driver and we are covering the route through other means, including substitute drivers and splitting routes. Unfortunately, there will likely be delayed arrivals and drop-offs until further notice”.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to know how many busses are arriving late in a given period. Last month the Fox5 – D.C. also reported the school system isn’t tracking how many buses are seriously behind schedule.

To fix the problem, the school board has formed a transportation task force that has been meeting monthly. Members are working to develop a plan that would combine routes to offset the driver shortage. An interim report is expected sometime this month. However, by March, the task force is expected to make scheduling recommendations for arrival and departure times, bus driver recruitment and retention and any changes that should be made for the next school year. The full report from the task force is expected to be released by spring break. Dr. Goldson is hoping to have a solution in time to implement for the 2020-21 school year.

Our City Council has limited influence over the PGCPS, however, we can share concerns with them in a letter approved by the Mayor and Council.

Dr. Monica Goldson Named New CEO of Prince George’s County Schools

By

On June 23, 2019

In School

Earlier this week, Dr. Monica Goldson was selected to be the permanent CEO for Prince George’s County Public Schools.

Goldson was assigned to the post as an interim CEO after the controversial severance package for departing CEO Dr. Kevin Maxwell was voted on by the board July 12, last year.

She has served as Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning since 2016. In this role, she led school support initiatives in the areas of curriculum and instruction, special education, testing, college and career readiness and student services, according to the school board. Prior to Deputy Superintendent, she served as Chief Operating Officer.

Goldson will oversee preparations for the 2018-19 school year and join forces with the Board of Education on the school system’s five focus areas: academic excellence, high-performing workforce, safe and supportive environments, family and community engagement and organizational effectiveness.

Prince George’s County Public Schools are nationally recognized for innovative programs and initiatives that provide students with unique learning opportunities, including arts integration, environmental and financial literacy and language immersion.

Not only a product of the county schools, Goldson has spent her entire 27-year career in Prince George’s County Public Schools, steadily climbing the ranks from the classroom to district leadership. Goldson began her career at Suitland High School as a mathematics teacher. She served as assistant principal for Forestville and Frederick Douglass high schools and principal of Frederick Douglass and Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High schools.

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