I have a lot of experience professionally and personally meeting goals through creative and collaborative solutions. Professionally, I have experience with leadership, operations, supply chain, budgeting, and organization. I also am chair of the foundation board for a large non-profit in Washington County. Personally, I am a mother and have the joy of nurturing, caring for and teaching 2 little boys.
This is a very difficult question to answer without going through the budgets thoroughly. I’m not someone to throw out buzz words/phrases- I’m excited to dive in and learn more to help make sure we’re using taxpayers dollars the most effectively and beneficially for our next generation’s education. I’ve managed entire commodities- finding waste and reducing costs while still focusing on quality and relationships.
I think standards and testing are important but we also need to make sure we are providing individualized education. We do a disservice when we try to put everyone into the same bubble and honestly we don’t want everyone to think the same or memorize the same or any of it- we want well educated, creative, unique individuals who will grow up to fill all different kinds of roles. The future scientist doesn’t think the same as a future photographer or future engineer or future plumber, etc.
I love our tech high and the focus on trades! We need to make sure to support all kids’ future. The days of pushing everyone to college to be successful is outdated- yes college to some careers is absolutely necessary but you can also have a great career in the trades. We need to support and promote all options.
Teachers need to be able to manage their classrooms. We have to have policies and procedures to allow teachers to be able to manage problems when they arise. Teachers should be able to do what they love and what they are there to do- teach. No teacher or student should have to deal with constant unmanaged behavior. I definitely want to get teachers feedback before coming up with specific policies; after all they are the ones with the experience and will be implementing them.
It’s important to listen and consider all points of view when making decisions on curriculum, programs and policies. I’ve already asked for feedback on social media platforms and would continue to ask for feedback from parents and students.
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In my two terms, we've achieved numerous state firsts: implementing universal pre-K, raising starting salaries to Maryland's highest, securing all buildings, and leading the entire state in apprenticeships. Additionally, I've been a part of two superintendent selections, passed eight budgets, and prepared for the statewide education overhaul known as the 'Blueprint.'
With 87% of our budget allocated to salaries, any increase must be funded by County Commissioners. Our top priority is competitive compensation to retain our exceptional staff amidst widespread shortages. This encompasses teachers, support personnel, administrators, and more.
National and state standards should guide curriculum development while allowing flexibility for local needs. They should complement, not dictate, our educational approach, ensuring a well-rounded education tailored to our students' diverse needs and aspirations.
I will continue championing our apprenticeship initiatives and "Grow Your Own" programs, ensuring students have practical pathways to various careers without college debt. These programs exemplify our commitment to diverse workforce readiness.
We authorized emergency funding for security assistants and extra classroom support personnel along with strong support for our school resource officers. I have also advocated for faster response to repeat offenders who would be better served in an alternative classroom setting.
I would continue to support our current policies that allow parents to review curriculum and invites stakeholders from the community onto committees.
My additional priorities include enhancing technology access, promoting mental health support, and fostering community partnerships to enrich educational experiences.
Campaign Phone
3013316335
“I have spent the last 25 years teaching 6th to 12th grades in youth ministry and have also been a successful business entrepreneur for the same duration. In addition, I spent the last two years as a substitute teacher in our local schools, listening to both teachers and students to better understand the needs of our schools. Finally, as a former Washington County Commissioner, I gained insights into our schools that most candidates do not have.”
“My 25 years of business experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of how budgets work. I will diligently ensure that every dollar is allocated according to the following priorities, teachers, parents, and students. In implementing the Blueprint for Education goals, I believe in a balanced approach that prioritizes student outcomes while being fiscally responsible.”
“Although society changes, the fundamentals of education do not. Therefore, we need to focus on a child’s education and stop allowing societal changes to influence what we teach. Administrative accountability is crucial. If administrators are not performing their duties effectively, they need to be replaced. Merely meeting standards is not an acceptable benchmark.”
“Somewhere along the way, an overemphasis was placed on attending college. However, here in Washington County, we have some excellent programs in our technical school and school system. These programs prepare young men and women for lifelong career opportunities in well-paying trade jobs.”
o “Once again, we need to return to the basics. A good starting point would be to hold students accountable for their behavior. It seems that accountability has been sidelined. In some schools I’ve been to, it was the students who ran the school. This made learning difficult for those who were genuinely interested in acquiring knowledge.”
“Parents need to be involved in their student’s education. We need to establish better avenues of communication. One possible approach could be for the board to periodically hold its meetings in a specific school. This might make parents and students feel more comfortable attending and expressing their views.”
“I strongly support the rights of parents to have a say in their student’s education. For some aspects, we currently have an opt-out option, which I believe is not the right approach. Instead, we need an opt-in option, which would give parents a more direct way of influencing their child’s school experience. Locally, we are growing so rapidly that we need a vision for building more schools.”
Campaign Phone
410-227-7953
I, my children and grandchildren were educated in Maryland public schools. I have a BS in Elementary Education from Towson University and a MS in Information Technology from Johns Hopkins. I taught middle school math for a few years and then became an IT professional. I am retired and have lived in Washington County for 9 years, I am on the board of the Literacy Council of Washington County. I also read to first graders.
I support the goals of the Blueprint for Education. However, it is difficult to prioritize them. I especially support the goals for Early Childhood Education and improved technical education and apprenticeships. We need to take advantage of the funds provided by the state by striving to meet the requirements of Community Schools. We can expand the pool of highly qualified teachers by promoting diversity.
Testing standards are a valuable benchmark and should be used in moderation. However, tests do not always indicate achievement. Many other factors need to be considered such as work habits, creativity, ability to work with others and ability to work independently.
I support a combination of technical education and apprenticeships. We should actively solicit apprenticeships from our community partners. We can also work with HCC to interest students in their 1 and 2 year career training programs.
This is a tough question with no easy solutions. I do believe in a strict discipline policy. But at the same time, schools need to be welcoming so that everyone feels comfortable and valued.
Parents and students should definitely have input. However, I think the final decisions about curriculum, programs and policies need to be made by the board based on the professional opinions of the teachers and administrators. I strongly oppose banning books.
Qualified, creative, caring teachers are fundamental and we must treat them as the valued professionals that they are. Therefore, we must make their salaries competitive.
2016:Servedas the President of the Board of Directors for Washington County Head Start.
2006: Appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to a member of the local Management Board.
2002:Under Dr .Elizabeth M. Morgan, Superintendent of the Washington County Schools to serve on the Washington County Alcohol and Drug Task Force.
Ran for the Board of Education in the early 1980's
Past President of the Washington County Council of Parents and Teachers.
Working as a member of the board, it would be the responsibility to review and evaluate the choices of previous administrations. Making sure that all monies were properly and efficiently allocated to those areas where they would best be utilized to maximize performances.
With the proper Standards and Testing protocols in place in the school system, it's imperative to require that only the best qualified instructors are employed to present those principles to the student body.
I was a member of the first graduating class of the Washington County Vocational school in 1969. My course was in the field of Carpentry. My instructors were highly qualified in the field, and my skills taught to me allowed me to be offered a job from a local contractor upon graduation. I strongly believe in the been for more vocational training courses be offered in the school system.
Working for 20 years as a Maryland state Correctional Officer, witnessed firsthand the consequences of poor choices. Even in todays world where usually both parents find the need to have to work, and the many homes with only one parent in the home, it's imperative that there be much more parental involvement with the students.
I would like to see the re-implementation of the Parent and Teacher Associations where there are none, and to work to strengthen the ones that are in place.
I want to be a strong voice of common since and rational thinking. As possibly the oldest person running as a board candidate , I'm a strong believer of faith , patriotism and strong moral character.
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Campaign Phone
301-790-0153
*Lifelong resident of Hagerstown/Washington County.
*All my family members have attended WCPS from K-12 and now my oldest grandson attends WCPS.
*Received the following degrees: AA from HCC, BS in ECE from FSU and Masters in ECE from Hood.
*Taught 44 years in the WCPS system and served on numerous advisory/special WCPS committees over the years.
*Served as WCTA Building Rep./WCTA B for many years.
*Member of the MSEA/NEA Teachers/Retired Ass.
*Lifelong parishioner of St. John’s Episcopal.
*Allocate funding for teacher salaries which would increase recruitment/retain teachers.
*Hire more behavioral health professionals/paraeducators to give more time for working together to individualize the needs of students.
*Invest in early childhood education/students with special needs.
*Expand career/technical education programs.
*Ensure that each school/student has the resources they need.
*Should be used to guide, implement, and assess each student’s learning.
*The information would be used to track the student’s performance and a plan, focused on instruction to meet the needs of those students, would be developed.
*Individualized plans would address any problems where students are struggling or lagging behind in their knowledge/skills.
*Standards and testing should not be the only measure of a student’s learning and it should not take time away from the student’s joy of school.
*Vocational/Trade school that costs less than a 4-year program and focuses on training students for careers in auto mechanics, electrical work, and welding, for example.
*Certificate-based Program that can be completed in a few months or weeks where a student can start a business or go into a specific job.
*Online college degree gives a student the flexibility to work around a job/family from their home.
*Learning with an apprenticeship can be viewed as a paid learning experience.
*Review WCPS code of conduct and make sure that all students feel welcomed and safe.
*Have preventive training/programs in place such as restorative practices/peace circles.
*Positive teacher/student relationships need to be created.
*School policies need to be followed for reporting/documenting the incident.
*Respond to physical aggression as per the state law.
*Share visions with the parents and students.
*Ask for input and their involvement.
*Keep them updated on the progress and outcome.
*Communicate and collaborate with them.
*Review and reflect on the results.
*Appreciate their time and effort.
*Become more informed of the WCPS BOE policies and guidelines to better support students and staff.
*Advocate for all students and staff to feel welcome and safe in their school environment.
*Maintain high expectations for student achievement with quality instruction.
*Develop a positive relationship with staff and the community.
*Be open and creative about using current resources when it comes to the budget.
*Have conversations with the County Commissioners.
My forty-two years as a WCPS educator and eight years as a WCBOE member have provided me with experiences and knowledge to serve responsibly and seek re-election to continue as a voice of reason for all WCPS stakeholders. Fifty years of my adult life have been devoted to Washington County students. Being a parent, grandparent, and great grandparent give me compelling reasons to work to preserve the integrity and excellence of WCPS. Education is all about the kids.
Each year the WCBOE approves a needs-based budget. Our request for county funding is never extravagant given the fact that WCPS has 3500 employees, maintains 47 schools, and must meet a myriad of mandated student needs and stakeholder demands. Blueprint implementation was delayed by COVID, and some Blueprint components are being updated. State and local governments have Blueprint funding responsibilities. With local government cooperation, the WCBOE will prudently implement the Blueprint.
WCPS strives to meet the needs of all children from Pre-K through Grade 12. Federal educational laws and regulations and state educational laws and regulations require certain assistance for children having learning disabilities or who need some form of accommodations. Children who do not speak English or lack English proficiency receive English language instruction. Various state tests such as MCAP and other standardized tests measure reading and math literacy and literacy in other areas.
College is not for everyone. For those students, WCPS has the number one apprenticeship program in the state. Various career fields are taught at the Boyd J. Michael Technical High School. Some career programs are available at the other county high schools. Other career programs are taught at the WCPS Public Service Academy. However, maintaining career programs and establishing new ones to meet increasing economic and business needs demands require adequate funding.
I would emphasize that these issues are societal and community issues. Learning proper behavior and discipline starts in the family unit. There should be zero tolerance of the listed disruptive behaviors. However, there are federal laws and regulations and state laws and regulations that set parameters and standards for disciplinary guidelines. Counselors, social workers, behavior analysts, and school security assistants have been hired to assist in controlling disruptive behaviors.
Parents are encouraged to volunteer to serve on citizen advisory committees and other groups formed to solicit parent input. Parents can review textbooks and proposed curriculum changes posted on the board website and at the WCPS central office. Stakeholders may offer comments on proposed board policies that are posted on the WCPS website. Student views are garnered from the board's student member. Stakeholder views can be received through emails, phone, or by speaking in Public Comment.
I want to continue to be an ardent advocate for public education in Washington County and a voice of reason, Educational decision making should result from non-partisanship and not emanate from any partisan political dogma. Educating all students by removing obstacles to achieving academic literacy. Working with all stakeholders to recruit and retain competent professional and ESP staff. Continuing to advocate for funding for needs-based budgets so WCPS can continue its drive for excellence.
Campaign Phone
3018245122
I was a WCPS teacher and administrator for 35 years. I’ve been an active and engaged Board of Education member for the past 11½ years.
Since 2016 I’ve been serving as BOE president. I’m actively involved in the Maryland Association of Boards of Education: serving my 4th term on its Board of Directors, participating in Board Service Academies, participating in its annual conference, serving twice as co-chair of the Conference Committee, serving as a leader of several standing committees.
The BOE must continue to be a good steward of tax dollars. To meet the Blueprint requirements, establishing budget priorities and strategic planning is key. Priorities include: salary and compensation to attract and retain staff, safety & security, mental health and behavioral supports. BOE members must understand the Blueprint, work closely with the superintendent to set priorities, make funding decisions, and work with our legislators to fine-tune the Blueprint.
National and state standards are used in the development of our local curriculum. Teaching our local curriculum with fidelity and providing our students with the access, opportunity, resources, and supports they need will lead to their academic success.
Multiple pathways to success are needed for a diverse student population. I’ll continue to support high quality Career and Technology Education (CTE) programs that are of interest to students and relevant to the success of our county, state, and nation. During my time on the BOE the number of CTE offerings have increased to include Diesel Mechanics, Aviation, Cyber Security, and more. I’m committed to the expansion of our current apprenticeship program which is ranked first in the state.
I support addressing these issues by continuing to emphasize school culture and climate improvements. This is accomplished through curriculum and programming, behavioral and mental health support for students, professional development for staff, and the employment of School Resource Officers and School Security Assistants. Safety and security, mental health and behavioral supports comprise one of the Board’s four priorities in the upcoming year’s General Fund Budget.
Parents and students share their views via email, phone calls, and in-person conversations. Feedback specific to curriculum, a program, or policy is sought via survey, special meetings, and/or postings on the WCPS website. Students also have an elected representative to the BOE. Public comment is heard at all BOE business meetings. Parents and community members are encouraged to apply to serve on any of the BOE’s advisory committees or task forces that may be formed.
I’m committed to: providing each WCPS PreK-12 student with the appropriate educational rigor, opportunities, resources, and support needed for their academic success and social and emotional well-being; providing safe and secure learning environments for students and staff; hiring and retaining the best teachers, administrators, and support staff and paying them a competitive wage; working collaboratively with county and state leaders to achieve the best for our students and for our county.
As an incumbent, I am familiar with the duties of a BOE member and Board norms. Additionally, as a thirty-year veteran in the educational field – both in the classroom and in administration, as well as a former business owner, I have had hands-on experience in curriculum and instruction, finance, facilities, human resources and policy.
The Blueprint includes early childhood education, high quality teachers and leaders, career and college readiness, resources to assure wraparound services to students, and accountability to the AIB and ERT. Additional priorities include combatting inflation, safety and security, mental health and behavioral supports, as well as salary and compensation to attract and retain high quality staff.
Testing is used to track student achievement and identify gaps; then to create differentiation and remediation to close those gaps and assure each student is successful.
I strongly support our apprenticeship and Career and Technology Education (CTE) programs which allow students to choose from almost one hundred programs for dual completers in everything from communications, bioscience and construction to education, agriculture and transportation - and so much in between. Literally the sky is the limit with our new aviation programs. Our reading apprentices have made a difference in emerging readers and cultivate a grow your own program.
School safety is imperative. A student’s first need is to feel safe-think Maslow. As a former administrator, I know that strict adherence to our disciplinary guidelines is essential. Hiring leadership in schools who will assure that consequences are served for those students who deviate from school rules is a must. With both Antietam Academy and our online school, we can provide quality instruction in an alternative setting.
Providing open communication and transparency in all that we say and do is essential. Parents, guardians, grandparents and students are an integral part of our decision making including attendance at committee meetings, Board meetings, membership on committees, surveys, Smores, and reaching out to us through phone calls and email and informal meetings at community and school gatherings. Including a student as a board member also helps to assure that a student voice is heard.
Safe schools where students are engaged. Our future is in school today. A relevant education that prepares our students for that future, includes both CTE and apprenticeship opportunities. Providing teachers with the tools to succeed is imperative, as is a teacher supported curriculum with high-quality materials delivered by a highly qualified and compensated staff who are fairly evaluated and provided professional development. Finally, transparency in all we do and heeded parental input.
