The Magnet Policy Review: A Good First Move by Dr. Dance

On Tuesday, July 10, I joined parents from Cromwell Valley Elementary School who testified before the Baltimore County Board of Education about changes to the county's magnet school policy.  It was the first meeting for Dr. S. Dallas Dance, our new School Superintendent.

Cromwell Valley Elementary School.

Two days later, Dr. Dance had announced a review of the policy. 

What a refreshing move from the new School Superintendent--and a great way to start his tenure as head of our public school system.  Dr. Dance showed the open-mindedness needed for anyone who has just taken the helm of one of the largest and most diverse school systems in the country.

The magnet policy was changed during the final year of Dr. Dance's predecessor, with little input from the community.   There are two changes.   One change affects the priority for siblings of students already enrolled in a magnet school.  Another change would end the priority for those students who are within walking distance, which means that a student who lives across the street from Cromwell Valley Elementary School could very well be bused to another school.

I have written to Dr. Dance suggesting that the priority for walkers at Cromwell Valley Elementary School be codified, and that the sibling priority either be extended to 2018-2019 to accommodate current students or grandfathered to families with students who enrolled under the original policy.    I understand that there are issues of countywide fairness and equity, but believe there must be a way to find a sensible middle ground. 

I look forward to learning of the review and hopefully changes to the rule.  Either way, I thank Dr. Dance for listening to the parents of Cromwell Valley Elementary School.

Three Priorities for the New School Superintendent

Congratulations to S. Dallas Dance on being named to lead the Baltimore County public school system. As the first member of the Baltimore County Council born in the 1970s, I am particularly proud that someone of my generation will be in this position.

Mr. Dance should focus on three important priorities.

First, continue to advance reforms that make the school system more open to the public and accountable to taxpayers. Over the past year, the Board of Education has taken some important steps, such as making more facilities available to communities.

Second, work with our teachers to raise achievement among all students, but particularly the county's burgeoning minority population. Under Superintendent Hairston's watch, the school system was credited by the Schott Foundation for having the third highest graduation rate for African American males among large school districts.

Third, develop a strategic plan for modernizing our schools. During tough times, the county has found the resources to deal with overcrowding in its most overcrowded region, the York Road corridor. Now is the time to develop a plan so we spend future surpluses wisely, on school modernization, expansion, and land acquisition.

I know that all education stakeholders are ready to work with Mr. Dance to improve an already strong public school system.