In their latest collaborative interview, The Cambridge Spy’s P. Ryan Anthony and WHCP’s Jim Brady met with Dr. Jymil Thompson, Superintendent of Dorchester County Public Schools (DCPS), to discuss the challenges and future of the school district. The conversation ranged from budget struggles and school infrastructure to student achievement and staff retention.
School Facilities: Too Many Buildings, Not Enough Resources
One of the main topics was DCPS’s long-term vision for upgrading its elementary schools. Assistant Superintendent Michael Collins recently noted that the district hopes to build a new school within five years. But with 13 existing school buildings—more than some counties with significantly larger populations—and ongoing maintenance issues, the question arises: why build more when current schools are in disrepair?
Dr. Thompson responded plainly: DCPS would close an old school before opening a new one. He acknowledged the poor condition of some facilities and said the district is developing a “prototype school” to serve as a model moving forward. No formal decisions have been made yet regarding closures.
Student Achievement and Accountability
Recent data from Niche.com paints a troubling picture for academic performance in DCPS. Mace’s Lane Middle School reports only 2% of students proficient in math and 18% in reading. Choptank Elementary is similar, with 5% proficiency in math and 8% in reading. The district overall received a B- rating from Niche.
Dr. Thompson did not shy away from these numbers. Math is a problem area statewide, and it’s a priority for DCPS too, he said. The district plans to address these gaps through intensive professional development for teachers, coaching for instructional leaders, and a simplification of curriculum delivery. He also emphasized the need for greater mental health support and better structure in classrooms.
Budget Deficit: Cuts and Consequences
In April, DCPS was grappling with a $5.59 million deficit. Dr. Thompson confirmed that the district succeeded in passing a balanced budget by the Board of Education’s May meeting. But the solution came at a cost. They made difficult, unpopular decisions, such as eliminating positions.
This year, 24 instructional positions were changed—some staff were reassigned, others left, and several positions were cut altogether. Most of the eliminated roles were held by educators already on disciplinary or improvement plans.
State Superintendent Visit: A Moment of Encouragement
On May 2, Maryland Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright visited North Dorchester Middle School. Dr. Thompson said she was enthusiastic during her tour, particularly impressed by classroom engagement and the district’s efforts on curriculum and assessments.
Despite persistent low test scores, Dr. Thompson expressed pride in DCPS’s progress. We want to highlight the good things, too, he said.
Aiming for 15th in the State—Despite the Odds
One of Dr. Thompson’s bold goals has been to raise DCPS’s rank to the 15th-best school system in Maryland. Asked whether that goal remains realistic, he was resolute that the only thing that will prevent DCPS from getting there is their own actions—or inaction.
Immigration Concerns and Student Protection
Amid growing national concerns over immigration enforcement in schools, Dr. Thompson reassured the public that DCPS has had no incidents related to immigration raids. They’re following guidance from the Maryland State Department of Education, he said, adding that the district remains committed to keeping all students safe.
While challenges remain—academic performance, aging infrastructure, and financial pressure—Dr. Thompson maintains a clear vision for DCPS: a district moving forward through tough decisions, with a focus on improvement and equity. Whether or not that vision translates to measurable gains remains to be seen.
This video is approximately 13 minutes long.
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