This decision makes up for a budget that falls $36 million short of what MCPS leaders requested. The largest reductions were in special education (a reduction of $13.7 million) and student personnel services ($9 million). “Being a special education school, everybody has an aide. “In the current climate of antisemitism, Jewish students, LGBTQ+ students, any niche group that is potentially targeted will be the first one to hurt, and especially at this very vulnerable age, middle and high school[ers] are going to truly be hurt by the cut; Jewish students absolutely.” Rosenberg stressed the importance of mental health support for high school students, especially now.