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Prince George's County Board of Education District 9

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.

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    Erica K. Bennett
    (N)

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    Jennifer Hooker
    (N)

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    Chandrai CJ Jackson-Saunders
    (N)

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    Candice Perkins
    (N)

Biographical Information

QUALIFICATIONS: How does your experience prepare you for the duties of this office?

PARENTAL INPUT: How would you address concerns about specific books or instructional materials in the schools.

TEEN MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS: What programs or policies, if any, do you propose or support to help our schools address the ongoing concerns around student mental health?

OPPORTUNITY GAP: How would you ensure that all students have equitable access to resources, challenging courses, and effective teachers and administrators?

SCHOOL LEADERS: What strategies would you support to attract and retain effective teachers and administrators?

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Campaign Phone 301-254-9553
Campaign Mailing Address 17511 Horsehead Rd
Brandywine, MD 20613
My 30 years of experience working in Prince George’s County Public Schools as a speech-language pathologist have given me a deep understanding of how educational systems operate and how decisions at the board level directly affect students, families, and educators. This experience strengthens my ability to evaluate policies and initiatives through the lens of equity, inclusion, and student needs. I am prepared to serve effectively as a member of the school board.
I would address concerns by listening carefully to all perspectives (parents, educators, students, and community leaders) while ensuring that responses align with district policies, standards, and constitutional protections. When a concern arises, I would support following the district's established review process. I would also maintain students’ access to high-quality materials that prepare them to think critically, engage respectfully, and to become informed citizens.
As a school board member, I would prioritize programs and policies that take a proactive, whole-child approach to student mental health. After working for 30 years in our public schools, I have seen firsthand how emotional well-being directly affects learning, behavior, and long-term success. I would advocate for reviewing current district policies to ensure that mental health resources are equitably distributed so students in every school, regardless of zip code, have access to the supports.
Equity begins with recognizing that not all schools or students start with the same opportunities. I would support data-driven reviews of resource allocation to identify and address gaps in technology, instructional materials, and support services. I would advocate for funding that prioritizes programs serving the greatest needs. I would promote policies encouraging early identification and support for students with advanced potential, and pathways for careers, college, and technical success.
I would advocate for competitive salaries and benefits that reflect educators’ professionalism and responsibilities. Retention is about more than pay—it’s also about creating positive, collaborative school cultures. I would support policies that prioritize mentoring for new educators, ongoing professional development, and opportunities for teacher leadership so staff feel valued and heard. I would work to ensure manageable class sizes, adequate planning time, and access to mental health & welln
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Campaign Twitter N/A
Campaign Website http://thecandiceperkins.com
Campaign Phone (240)326-3699
Campaign Instagram https://www.instagram.com/candice4pgcpsd9?igsh=ejhnaXJuY3Y4OHZm&utm_source=qr%20
As the District 9 PCAC Representative, President of the Frederick Douglass High School PTSO, and Chair of the CMITS Safety Subcommittee, I’ve gained experience in policy oversight, budgeting, community engagement, and school safety, preparing me to contribute effectively to the Prince George’s County Board of Education from day one.
Establishment of a transparent and inclusive process, with input from parents, educators, and experts. I believe in balancing academic freedom with sensitivity to community values, ensuring that all materials support diverse learning experiences while maintaining educational integrity.
I support comprehensive mental health programs that provide students with access to counselors and peer support. I’ve seen, through my work in various PGCPS committees and groups, since COVID PGCPS has increased mental health support at all grade levels. I will advocate for training and access to continue for educators to recognize early signs of mental health challenges. Collaboration with families and community partners will ensure that every student has the resources they need to succeed.
I advocate for fair school funding, ensuring access to advanced courses and skilled teachers. By prioritizing professional development, diversity in staffing, and regular funding reviews, I aim to create an inclusive environment for all students.
Attracting and retaining strong educators requires respect, support, and stability. I support competitive compensation, reduced administrative burden, strong mentorship for new teachers, leadership pipelines for administrators, and safe, well-resourced schools. Just as important is restoring trust, ensuring educators have a voice in decisions that affect classrooms and student outcomes daily.