Complementary skills include prowess in areas where there is a need for current relevancy, including but not limited to advanced education in computer science, athletic competition and experience at the D1 level, extensive experience as a college intern, business owner, and public sector employee. Additionally, members of my family have been educators for several generations. Lastly I have the right combination of strength, energy and experience.

Civility enabling education. Particularly, enabling boys to become well rounded men of sound character in the midst of our culture which which currently pays little attention to them until they are deemed a threat. Involving parents in the education of their children through PTA's or PTO's is another needed option. Civilization and education are mutually supportive and dependent.

I think shifts in the budget should be reflective of the needs and challenges currently being faced by the students and teachers. . Increasing funding for teacher salaries, professional development, and support programs can attract and retain high-quality educators. Additionally, the budget should prioritize equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that all students regardless of their socio-economic background or geographic location, have access to quality education.

Developing practical and professional skills that translate to the workplace. Technical and soft skill cultivation is extremely important coming off the heels of the pandemic. Regardless of lock down debate opinions, one thing is clear: social distant learning impacted many students educational and social development progress. Working with organizations providing financial management/literacy, internships, and trade skills is essential. This is a great opportunity for community partnership.

Initially, law enforcement officers must be provided as needed, recognizing the reality of the dangers at hand. Simultaneously, alternatives must address the inherent danger of the internet and social media impact on young people. Subsequently, the learning experience must keep students actively engaged in viable activities and processes which will help them learn to positively support themselves and their schoolmates.

Recognition of a need for service to parents and our boys in these extremely volatile days. As a rendition of Charles Dickens “The Christmas Carol” stated “These children (orphans) belong to you. They cling to me for protection (The Ghost of Christmas Present). The boy’s name is 'Ignorance'. The girl’s name is 'Want'. Beware them both, but most of all, beware this boy.” It sounds poetic but the message is: if we don't ensure our children's education and development than civilization suffers.

My extensive background as a team builder and program manager uniquely position me for a seat on the Board of Education. My team-building skills ensure effective collaboration among diverse stakeholders, vital for addressing the needs of students and educators. As a program manager, I have demonstrated strategic planning, essential for implementing educational initiatives. Overall, my multifaceted skills and experience make me a well-rounded candidate capable of driving positive change.

My major priority is to foster transparency, which requires elevating communication among parents, students, and teachers. Implementing regular newsletters, virtual town halls, and dedicated online platforms are great ways for the BOE to create an open dialogue. Prioritizing investments in math, science, and writing reflects a commitment to foundational skills. Ensuring resources for updated materials, specialized training, and extracurricular activities enhance the learning experience.

In-depth analysis of the budget is probably what I’m most excited about doing if elected. Unfortunately, I don’t yet have a full view of the current budget and there are a lot of unknowns right now as we work to implement the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. With that said, I don’t feel I’m in a position to say what should be increased or decreased at this point. I am concerned about the amount of funding and the number of positions allocated to administrative purposes (including the BoE).

My own son attended the James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center and had an amazing experience in the 2-year Manufacturing Engineering Technology program. The Forrest Center is an exceptional resource to prepare students for employment in a wide variety of fields, without the time and expense of pursuing a 4-year degree. I recall that this was widely marketed when my children were in middle school, but teachers and counselors should continue to encourage kids to explore their options.

Communication is key to both safety and well-being. Ensuring that parents understand what is happening in the schools where their children are should be the highest priority. I recognize there are no easy solutions, nor solutions that appease everyone. I’m not interested in making promises I can’t keep, but if elected I would start by leveraging the Chief Strategic Officer and the Chief Safety and Security Officer for insight to consider realistic options.

Having been educated in public schools and having a mother who dedicated her career to special education instilled in me a deep appreciation for the impact of quality education. Witnessing the challenges and triumphs within the public school system through her experiences has fueled my commitment to ensuring all students receive an inclusive and supportive learning environment. I’m thankful that my own two children were educated in the St. Mary’s County Public School System and I can give back.

27 years full-time BOE member. Longest serving BOE member in MD.Hired three superintendents.Worked with every CSMC and BOE members since 1996. BOE Chair/Vice Chair. Always visible, approachable, available, accessible and responsive. Kept students in forefront of all decisions. MABE Leadership Graduate. Served on various local/state committees/ boards. College graduate.World traveler. Jail Social worker. Retired Military Spouse. Real estate agent.About 48 years of direct education experience.

Increase student achievement for a changing, diverse, and global world. World-class school system.Decrease Chronic Absenteeism. Gain and Retain High -Quality workforce.Fund negotiated agreements. Transparent &Timely Communications.Safe Schools.

Fully fund Negotiated Agreements. To continue to enhance, maintain, and upgrade technology in the classrooms to achieve personalized and group instruction. To bring access and opportunities for new programs with emerging technologies, skills, and demands. Decrease: Any areas, which after review, are not effective and efficient.

The key is to prepare ALL students to be college and/or career ready whether they think they plan to go to college or not. To be well prepared for any career, further education is required. Currently, the Forrest Center offers 24 career programs. JROTC at high schools. 4 Academies: Global & International Studies, STEM, Visual&Performing Arts and an Academy of Finance. Internships.

A multi-pronged approach. Education and awareness are priorities. Parent, student, and community support/partnerships. Timely communications. Prevention, Preparedness. Safety and Security officers. Psychologists.Counselors.Social Workers. School Resource Officers. Security vestibules. Guest speakers. Background Checks. Surveillance. Digital-controlled access. Adopt a School.Mentors.

The students are the future. Love, Service, Patriotism, and the ability to give back to the community. To work collaboratively, openly, honestly, and transparently with stakeholders. To be a voice in helping students fulfill their potential to be productive and contributing members of a changing, diverse, and global society. It is inspiring to see students graduate and pursue higher education, trade school, military or workforce. To see students excel.