04/26/2026
Last week was a busy and productive one for this board member!
Monday evening began with the SECAC meeting, featuring informative guest speakers from Civitan Frederick and the Maryland Office of Disability.
On Tuesday, I attended the County Council Budget Workshop to provide public comment in support of the FCPS budget. Ensuring our schools have the necessary resources remains a top priority.
Wednesday’s Board of Education meeting included a robust work session. We covered several critical areas:
- An update from the Special Education Department.
- An overview of AI guidance from the Maryland State Department of Education and our own FCPS work groups.
- Policy 412 to strengthen community and business partnerships with our schools.
- FCPS Budget team updated the board on changes affecting our proposed budget sent to the County Executive including Federal changes to Title 1 funding, inflation and utility costs, and the County Executive’s proposed budget for FY 2027
Thursday was Take Your Kids to Work Day. My two boys joined me for a visit to Hood College, where we sat in on a Political Science and Global Society class. We listened to an insightful presentation by Jamie Shopland regarding the intersection of Doughnut Economics and civic life.
We wrapped up the week on Friday at Whittier Elementary School to celebrate Arbor Day. Principal O’Hare shared my favorite quote of the week: "Trees may not have capes, but they have leaves."
The weekend has brought much needed rain to our county. Also, an opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends.
I hope you all found some time to recharge and connect with loved ones this weekend!
