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Prince George's County Board of Education District 5

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: Video

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    Robin Brown
    (N)

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    Kim Carter
    (N)

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    Iyamide House
    (N)

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    Zipporah Miller
    (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?

My extensive background in policy positions fit well for this role. Since 2018, I’ve diligently worked to improve local, state, and national policies. As the Program and Policy Analyst at FEMA, my responsibilities include managing, identifying, overseeing, coordinating, and monitoring policy and program initiatives. My expertise will undoubtedly contribute significantly to District 5’s success.
I believe that every parent wants the best for their children, and I commend those who are advocating for their household. As a school board member, I would establish transparent guidelines that define academic freedom and its boundaries. I would also educate the community on policies that align with community expectations and values.
As a mother of two scholars in PGCPS, I know firsthand the importance in having ample support to help our schools address the ongoing concern around student mental health. I am advocating for students to have coping skills training groups and provide mindfulness-based training programs for students and teachers.
To ensure equitable access for all students, I would advocate for equitable resource management. I would assess the needs, reallocate existing resources, and align strategies with the school’s mission. Additionally, promoting equitable access to effective teachers involves analyzing gaps, setting goals, and developing strategies to address inequities. A focus on inclusive policies and supportive environments can create a level playing field for every student in District 5.
My strategy to attract and retain effective educators is to focus on appreciation, professional development, competitive compensation, local pathways, and positive school culture. I also believe we should recognize their efforts, invest in growth, ensure fair pay, create accessible career paths, and foster a supportive environment.
Campaign Phone (240)624-4244
My experience brings an understanding of educational needs, insight into parental concerns, advocacy for quality education, communication and collaboration skills, and my experience in homeschooling is valuable when considering policies that affect non-traditional education programs in the county. Overall, my diverse background in education & parenting brings a valuable perspective to the PGC School Board, helping to ensure that the needs of students, parents and educators are met effectively.
As a PGCPS Board Member I would address these concerns through a thoughtful and thorough process that takes into account the concerns of all stakeholders in a fair, transparent, and inclusive manner, ultimately ensuring that the educational needs of all students are met.
Addressing student mental health is crucial for ensuring the overall well-being and academic success of students. Here are some policies and programs that I would support: increased access to mental health professionals, mental health education, peer support programs, staff training, partnerships with mental health providers, school-based mental health services, parent and community involvement, and crisis, intervention plans.
Here are some strategies to help achieve ensuring equitable access to resources, challenging courses, and effective teachers and administrators. Resource allocation, equitable funding, recruitment and retention, professional development, support for underrepresented groups, data collection & monitoring, and community engagement, ensuring that parents, families and community members voices are heard.
Here are some of the strategies I would support to achieve this goal. Offer competitive salaries and benefits, professional development opportunities, mentorship & support programs, recognition & rewards, clear pathways for advancement, leadership development, ensure a safe and supportive work environment, and collaborative decision-making, just to name a few.
Campaign Phone 301262-8560
Campaign Instagram Houseforfamilies
Campaign Mailing Address P O BOX 8
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Bowie, MD 20719
Received both an MS and BA from Johns Hopkins. Licensed mental health therapist, former school counselor and supervisor of school-based wrap-around services, and parent of 3 PGCPS students. 10 years of clinical mental health experience and over 2 decades of professional leadership experience. Developed, implemented, and managed, six to seven-figure programs inclusive of grant-funded programs. Experience running responsive and inclusive school mental health programs.
I strongly believe that books or any other materials that represent children in our community should not be banned. If there are any concerns regarding the content, I encourage parents to have an open discussion with teachers and administrators to gain a better understanding of the content. Parents are an invaluable resource and our schools' greatest partners. Therefore, I aim to increase their participation and support in our school system.
Mental health is a crucial part of my platform. I fully support the State’s Blueprint and it’s successful implementation. I will make it my top priority to fully fund mental health resources in schools. Funding would hire more school counselors, psychologists, and social workers, as well as increase funding for wrap-around and other behavioral services for all schools. Additionally, I will initiate and support collaboration with community resources to meet our students’ needs.
I believe it is crucial to utilize both qualitative and quantitative data while crafting solutions for each school environment and the children they cater to. This requires adequate funding and regular communication with schools and parents to ensure that families are well-informed about their rights and resources.

First, I would make sure that the existing programs are dependable and being used effectively. Furthermore, I would recommend allocating more funds towards initiatives like the "Grow Your Own" and Teacher Residency programs. I would also suggest extending teacher certification reciprocity. Additionally, I would collaborate with local authorities to enhance community incentives for teachers.
Campaign Phone (443)873-3338
Campaign Mailing Address 9008 Chestnut Avenue
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Bowie, MD 20720
With over 30 years of expertise in STEM education and School System leadership, I am uniquely qualified to continue to serve as a school board member. From teaching to district-wide leadership, I've led initiatives to boost student achievement, teacher retention, and school safety. My advocacy for equitable education and community involvement highlights my dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.
Parental engagement is crucial in shaping policy and making decisions. When addressing concerns about books or materials, I prioritize listening. Forums will be convened for open dialogue. As a leader, I value every voice. It's standard practice for me to involve parents in material selection, ensuring they are an equal partner in the selection process.
To bolster student mental health, I continue to champion funding for counselors and partnerships with licensed clinicians. Virtual access to clinicians is crucial and available, thus awareness around this resource is necessary. I've successfully advocated for calming rooms and expanding restorative practices. It's imperative to equip school staff with strategies and resources to support students facing mental health challenges.
As the current chair of the academic achievement committee on the school board, I ensure equitable access by reviewing data and school practices. We meet with practitioners to understand challenges and ensure all students have access to resources, challenging courses, and effective teachers. I continue to champion professional development for teachers and school administrators around equity and access.
To attract and retain effective teachers and administrators, I advocate for competitive salaries and compensation packages that include comprehensive benefits. I prioritize supportive working conditions, professional development, and collaboration with the teachers' union. Additionally, I support compensating teaching interns during their internships to value their contributions and invest in their professional growth.