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.

Anneslie is Baltimore County's Newest Historic District

Congratulations to Anneslie, the neighborhood in southwestern Towson that just received historic  status from the U.S. Department of the Interior.  Anneslie has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The designation provides tax benefits to residents, and it's another selling point for a charming neighborhood that is attracting many new families.

I was very happy to testify in support of this designation, but real credit goes to the volunteers who documented the heritage of this charming community.  Again, congratulations!

Modify Policy on Use of Athletic Fields

After Hurricane Irene, county employees were rightfully focused on restoring power and removing debris from our communities.  Many schools were closed for up to a week due to power problems, even though the athletic fields were free of debris.

 

The Board of Education currently has a rule in which athletic fields are automatically closed  during an unplanned, emergency school closure.  In the days after Hurricane Irene, recreation councils could not use the fields at many schools even though they were free of debris.  This problem was brought to my attention by a coach with the Perry Hall Recreation Council.

 

All seven members of the Baltimore County Council have written to Superintendent Joe Hairston asking that the rule be adjusted.  If there are public safety concerns, we understand the importance of the rule.  Local supervisors should still have discretion.  A blanket prohibition against using athletic fields, however, is not fair to all of our families who pay taxes to use these facilities.  

 

I represent some of the largest and most active recreation councils in Baltimore County, including the Perry Hall, Greater Loch Raven, Parkville, Towson, and White Marsh Recreation Councils.   A rule adjustment could benefit thousands of Baltimore County families.