Good morning, Rockville.

After a storm on July 28, Ridgely Chichester narrowly escaped injury when a falling tree hit his Montgomery County home and forced him to dive under a chair+ his house suffered damage to the kitchen and breezeway while his wife and dog remained safe+.

A U.S. News study shows nearly 48% of local parents are cutting back on school spending due to rising everyday costs (gas, groceries) and job losses, with over half already shopping for supplies and planning to spend up to $300 per child.

Montgomery County Public Schools will ban cellphone use from first to last bell starting Aug.

25 to help students focus in class, and the new policy applies to every grade with limited exceptions (detailed in the updated Student Code of Conduct).

Montgomery County students made slight progress on Tuesday’s Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program tests (their reading and math scores remain above statewide averages).

District leaders will review the results to see if recent academic program changes are effective.

MCPS students improved their scores on science, math, and English for the 2025–2026 school year, meeting or exceeding state proficiency rates.

The Maryland State Department of Education reported Tuesday (marking a second consecutive year of gains) as the district continues its support for students.

Maryland state educators released test scores today and are now working with local school districts to improve instruction by offering support systems, high-quality instructional materials, and professional learning through the Maryland School Leadership Academy.

The state also launched online parent guides to help boost student literacy.

Silver Spring-based Bee Safe Mosquito Control is releasing 600,000 non-biting male mosquitoes this summer in Bethesda, Silver Spring, Takoma Park and Washington, D.C.—the move aims to lower biting mosquito populations without using pesticides.

Governor Wes Moore reappointed former Montgomery County executive Isiah Leggett to a six-year term as Blueprint for Maryland’s Future board chair and added Robin Werner (director of teaching and learning in Talbot County) for a new term; the board will meet virtually Thursday to review updates to the statewide education reform plan.

Janica is a 1-year-old beagle mix with heartworm who needs crate rest and a quiet home to help her recover.

Humane Rescue Alliance will cover all her treatments if you adopt her soon.

WTOP has compiled a list of 30 creative ice cream, gelato, and custard spots across the region, including local Maryland favorites and seasonal pop-ups.

Rockville residents can explore these dessert destinations that offer unique flavors + modern twists.

An Evening of Chicago Blues with Wayne Baker Brooks

8-10:30 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $30 — Experience high-energy Chicago blues with guitar powerhouse Wayne Baker Brooks.