Caroline County Board of Education District 3
DUTIES: Caroline County has a "hybrid" Board of Education with 2 members appointed by the Governor and 3 members elected from Caroline County. Terms are staggered. In 2026 one board member will be elected from the County. The Board of Education sets policy and oversees Caroline County Public Schools.BASE SALARY: $5,500 annual salary.TERM: Four years; no term limit.HOW ELECTED: Board members are elected from districts.
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Jean Hayhurst
(N)
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Patrick Troy Plutschak
(N)
QUALIFICATIONS: How does your background 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 and 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?
TEACHERS: What strategies would you support to attract and retain effective teachers and administrators?
Campaign Phone
7038956719
1. I am a retired teacher from Federalsburg, MD. Over 35 years, I taught both Biology and Chemistry to high school students as well as working with parents, administration and staff to help students succeed. I have taught in Garrett and Talbot Counties here in Maryland and in Fairfax County, VA, retiring in 2022. I would like to use my years of professional education service and commitment to help students in Caroline County reach their full potential.
2. As an educator my integrity was never questioned when purchasing materials for students. I am aware that that is no longer the case in some situations. Each of those concerns would have to be addressed independently. The text or instructional materials in question would need to be necessary for student success and at a minimum meet state guidelines.
3. Fortunately, there are many programs and policies that could be implemented to help with student mental health. Mentoring programs and in school psychologists at the very least. Unfortunately, money is required to pay for these programs. There are grants available from MSDE for this purpose. I would first ask the parents, teachers and administrators what they think would be beneficial and then write a grant to provide funding.
4. 4. The largest opportunity gap I see after speaking with Dr. Simmons, Superintendent of Schools, is the lack of funds to make certain all students have internet access at home. Students in the 21st century need internet access so they can effectively do homework, etc. at home. Educational access gaps can be addressed by having no pre-requisites. Attracting qualified teachers and administrators comes down to money and benefits. MSDE grants are also available for these initiatives.
5. Can Caroline County offer competitive wages? Where will the money come from? Again, there are MSDE grants available to help districts recruit and retain qualified candidates. The state Blueprint has required counties to raise new teacher pay to$60K, but where will the money come from? I would do my best to land state grants to help in this area.
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