Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) today announced the upcoming MCPS LEAD Expo, an innovative event designed to transform the traditional career fair into an interactive, equitable pathway experience for students in grades 5 through 10 and their families.

The LEAD Expo will take place on Thursday, November 19, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Christiansburg Recreation Center. Transportation will be provided from each high school to and from the event.

Grounded in the division’s LEAD framework, the Expo organizes postsecondary and community opportunities into four distinct pathways. The Learn pathway explores current and postsecondary academic options such as Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, Governor’s Schools, and college programs. The Earn pathway highlights Career and Technical Education (CTE), workforce development, and skilled trades leading to high-demand careers. The Answer the Call pathway introduces military service opportunities, including enlistment, service academies, and the MCPS Corps of Cadets. Finally, the Discover pathway connects students to community resources, independent living supports, civic engagement, and extracurricular activities like athletics and clubs.

Designed to meet students at their developmental stage, the Expo introduces 5th graders to future pathways through low-pressure exploratory activities, helps middle school students connect personal interests to high school coursework, and guides high school students in refining their Academic and Career Plans (ACPs).

Transportation information

MCPS Transportation will provide buses at Auburn High School, Blacksburg High School, and Eastern Montgomery High School. Trips will be at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to transport families to the Christiansburg Rec Center. Return trips from the Christiansburg Rec Centers to the high schools will be at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.