SECTION 2: FOR STUDENTS

Resources to help you build knowledge, character, and the skills that will outlast any app or AI.

Read, Read, Read!

AI is rising — and the students who will thrive are those who can think critically, argue from evidence, and write clearly. Classical literature and whole books build those skills. Check out A Library to Build Great Americans, Ages 3-99+ for a list of books worth owning and reading.

Show Up Every Day

More than 23% of MCPS students were chronically absent in 2023-2024 — and MCPS’s own research found that chronic absenteeism significantly widened achievement gaps and limited literacy progress. Every day in school matters. Make it to school every day — and on time.

Volunteer in Your Community

Leadership, teamwork, communication, and time management are skills built through service — not screens. Visit the Montgomery County Volunteer Center to find opportunities that match your interests.

Excellence in Virtue Leads to Safety for All

Great grades matter — and so does character. Read Aesop’s Fables or The Children’s Book of Virtues for stories that illustrate courage, responsibility, honesty, and loyalty. Know and follow the MCPS Student Code of Conduct. If you see something wrong at school — talk to your parents first, then your teacher.

Do a Science Fair Project

Science fair projects teach you to ask questions, design experiments, analyze evidence, and communicate results — the exact skills college and career demand.

• Middle schoolers: browse All Science Fair Projects and 30 Middle School Projects from Easy to Hard for hands-on ideas in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
• High schoolers: try 70 High School Science Fair Projects or Science Buddies for in-depth, competition-ready project guides.
• Consider entering the Regeneron ISEF — the world’s largest pre-college science competition — or a regional Science Olympiad