DUTIES: The BOE shares its responsibilities with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to establish and oversee educational policies; to make decisions on educational, facility, and financial matters; and to appraise the educational and administrative management of the public school system. The CEO implements public school policies and programs. The BOE may not contradict management and oversight of fiscal affairs except by a 2/3 vote of the BOE. The purpose of the Board is two-fold: to raise the academic achievement of students and the level of engagement of parents, students, and community. The BOE consists of 9 elected members, 3 members appointed by the County Executive, 1 member by the County Council, and 1 student member.SALARY:$18,000 + $7,000 reimbursementTERM: 4 years; no term limitsHOW ELECTED: By popular vote within one of nine districts. Districts 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8 are elected during Presidential elections; Districts 2, 3, 6, and 9, during Gubernatorial elections. BOE races are non-partisan and all registered voters may vote in both Primary and General elections. The top two vote getters in each race advance to the General election; uncontested races (only one or two candidates) do not appear on the primary election ballot.CANDIDATE FORUM: Videorecording
Campaign Twitter
kennyfharris
Campaign Phone
2403027437
Campaign Instagram
kennyfharris
As the current District 7 representative I am proud of the work we have completed to increase teacher pay, bolster school security, build 8 cutting edge new buildings, and increase mental health resources for both students and educators across the county. Serving in leadership on the Operations, Budget, and Fiscal Affairs (OBFA) Committee each year I’ve led my colleagues and the administration through decisions prudent to the proper fiscal allocation and operation of the entire school system.
By approaching the situation with both empathy and understanding, I would first seek to hear the concern & respect their perspective. This helps to lay the groundwork & effectively build a bridge to the PGCPS administration. By actively listening to concerns, providing alternative options, offering information about the content area, encouraging dialogue, & ultimately respecting the parents' decisions, schools & educators can work collaboratively to meet the educational needs of all students.
Advocacy for increased train the trainer models across the county is imperative to addressing the concerns around student mental health. I cosponsored Budget Amendment 2.6 Mental Health Awareness (RESOLUTION #02152024-03) targeting additional system wide training. This model builds on the existing Sources of Strength programs offered in 30 of our schools, in a 5 year $3 million initiative. Support and expansion of AP 5113, granting students one mental health day per semester, is also vital
Advocating for the proper funding based on needs in curriculum, activities, and services. Through increased parent and community partnership we have also increased the knowledge base for funding structures around Title I and Community Schools status. Which contributes to the School Based Budget, impacting areas such as our English Language Learners (ELL) and Special Education (SPED) scholars. Increased use and enhancements to the Equity Dashboard will also ensure areas of need are identified.
Continuously prioritizing competitive compensation packages that reflect the value of our teachers' contributions. Ensuring our decisions must reflect the importance of granting teachers the autonomy to teach without unnecessary burdens & providing them the resources needed, like adequate (and respected) planning time. My commitment to educators extends beyond financial incentives. I am dedicated to cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment where educators feel valued, safe & empowered
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2404556868
As the proud daughter of a mother and father who were enlisted in the Marines, who served as educators, and volunteer ministers in our community, I know first-hand what a life of public service looked like at home and abroad. I also joined the military after the disruptive event of 9/11. I felt the necessity to be a part of the solution to keep our country safe. This sense of ambition transfers into my desire to guide our next generation. Being a change agent for PGCPS D- 7, expect excellence.
I would engage parents or guardians in the counseling and reviewing of books, in order to make an informed and age-appropriate decision on materials. We do not need to overwhelm impressionable minds with materials that do not match the student’s maturity level.
Using the “It-Takes-a-Village” concept is key here. Embedding entrusted youth counselors in schools and by partnering with certified or licensed mental health professionals, of whom are from the same or similar community of the students, will aid in addressing ongoing concerns of students’ mental health.
Connecting the dots for diverse and inclusive teams has been a strength of mine. When others say it's impossible, I always find a way to possible. Prince Geroge’s District 7 students have equitable access to resources. It’s a matter of how we incorporate them into our daily planning. Establishing strategic partnerships with parents and businesses will help our students learn how to connect those dots to make community advancements.
We need to employ the same methods headhunters use when looking for top-notch candidates with the will and the zeal to help propel our young people to a higher educational level. School leaders and parents must know that Prince George’s District 7 community expects and demands nothing but the best for our students in Prince George's County Public Schools.
Campaign Twitter
@pcmoss
Campaign Phone
3012562752
With over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher, principal, and senior leader in education policy, including roles as a congressional adviser and now professor of Education Policy, I possess a comprehensive understanding of education challenges. My track record of driving positive change, coupled with a commitment to equity and excellence, uniquely prepares me to tackle the duties of this office with innovative solutions and visionary leadership.
Drawing on my expertise in education policy and leadership, I would establish a transparent review process involving stakeholders to address concerns about specific books or instructional materials in schools. Emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, I'd ensure decisions align with educational standards and community values while promoting critical thinking and open dialogue.
Utilizing my background in education policy and leadership, I advocate for comprehensive mental health programs in schools. This includes increased access to counselors, training for educators in recognizing mental health issues, and implementing evidence-based interventions. Additionally, fostering supportive school environments and partnerships with mental health professionals are crucial steps in addressing the ongoing concerns surrounding student mental health.
I propose targeted interventions such as equitable funding distribution, recruitment of diverse educators, and implementation of rigorous coursework. Additionally, I advocate for community partnerships, professional development for educators, and data-driven strategies to address systemic barriers, ensuring all students have equitable access to resources and opportunities for academic success.
To attract and retain effective teachers and administrators, I advocate for comprehensive strategies. These include competitive compensation packages, professional development opportunities, supportive work environments, and leadership pathways. Additionally, fostering a culture of collaboration, recognizing achievements, and providing mentorship programs are essential for retaining talent and sustaining school improvement efforts.
