Under the new FY 2027 CIP Prioritization Framework, Eastern Middle School (MS) has been identified as the highest-ranked candidate for a Major Capital Project. As part of the FY 2027 Capital Budget and the FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program (CIP), the closure of Silver Spring International Middle School (SSIMS) in July 2030 and the conversion of the facility into a holding school has been proposed. This proposal remains under Board of Education consideration, with action scheduled for 2026.

The Board is requesting a replacement project for Eastern MS, independent of the outcome of the SSIMS decision, with planning to begin in FY 2027 and an anticipated completion date of August 2030. The requested budget for the Eastern MS Major Capital Project reflects capacity enhancements to accommodate the additional SSIMS enrollment. If SSIMS remains open as a comprehensive middle school, the Board will work with the County Council to adjust the project budget accordingly.