CURRICULUM

Maryland school systems use the College and Career Ready Standards (CCRS) developed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) as the foundation for creating local curricula. These standards outline the essential skills and knowledge students need to be successful in college, career, and life, ensuring consistency and rigor across the state.

WCPS aligns its curriculum frameworks, High-Quality Instructional Materials, and assessments with the CCRS while tailoring them to meet the unique needs of our students and communities. This alignment supports high expectations and guides educators in providing clear learning objectives and pathways for student achievement across all grade levels.

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Elementary School Curriculum

The elementary instructional program focuses on literacy skills through the development of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students also learn mathematics and develop skills to become effective problem solvers. Elementary students study the basic concepts of social studies, science, arts, and health. Students also develop the ability to work independently and as part of a group.

Middle School Curriculum

For complete curriculum information, review the Middle School Program of Studies.

In middle school, students interact with more students and adults than they did in elementary school. Most middle school students have a different teacher for each subject area. The instructional program for grades six to eight reinforces skills learned in elementary school and prepares students for the more complex work required in high school.

High School Curriculum

For complete curriculum information, review the High School Program of Studies.

Washington County’s high schools prepare students for the future. The high school instructional program addresses the needs of students entering the workforce, preparing for adult responsibility, or continuing their education at the post-secondary level. Among the many opportunities, students may pursue one of numerous career and technology completer pathways and engage in Advanced Placement or other rigorous courses and programs. Interested students also have the opportunity to study at one of the growing number of magnet programs or Academies as well as at Washington County Technical High School or the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts.

Help at Home

Parents and caregivers are critical supports in their child’s learning. The Maryland State Department of Education created Family Guides for Student Success to highlight the key literacy and math skills students will learn from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. They explain what students are expected to know and be able to do by the end of each grade based on Maryland’s learning standards. There are also Help at Home activities for you to work with your child and further reinforce what they're learning or provide some additional support where they need an extra boost.

Family Guides for Student Success