PGCABS & PGCPS School Board Candidates 2020

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As a follow up to our written Q&A with the candidates for the Prince George’s County School Board completed in spring 2020, PGCABS Board Member Janna Parker has conducted interviews with the candidates that will be on the ballot this fall. Like in past elections, PGCABS is nonpartisan and does not endorse candidates. We provide these interviews as a tool to use when making a decision that you feel is best for your family and your community. We encourage everyone to vote this fall and have their voices heard. You can find information on voter registration and more here. 

District 1

Interview with David Murray, District 1 candidate.

District 4

Interview with Shayla Adams-Stafford, District 4 candidate.

Interview with Bryan Swann, District 4 candidate.

District 5

Interview with Raaheela Ahmed, District 5 candidate.

District 7

Interview with Alexis Branch, District 7 candidate.

Interview with Kenneth Harris, District 7 candidate.

District 8

Interview with Edward Burroughs, District 8 candidate.

PGCPS Board of Education Resumes Discussion on Police in Schools

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In mid-June, the PGCPS Board of Education voted to postpone action on School Resource Officers (SROs) in schools. Those discussions will resume this week in the Operations, Budget & Fiscal Affairs (OBFA) Committee on Monday, September 14 at 6 PM and the full Board Meeting on Thursday, September 17 at 7 PM.

We encourage everyone to contact your Board of Education members to share your thoughts. Board member contact information, as well as links to meeting documents and live meeting webinars, are available at https://www.pgcps.org/board/.

The PGCABS Board has not endorsed a position on this matter, but provides these notes and links for clarification:

  • Under Maryland law, a school resource officer is defined as “a law enforcement officer who has been assigned to a school in accordance with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the chief of a law enforcement agency and the local school system.”
  • Maryland’s Safe to Learn Act from 2018 required that “all public high schools have either an SRO assigned to them or adequate law enforcement coverage by the 2018-19 school year.” As of the bill’s passage, PGCPS had thirty SROs. Additional details are available in the bill’s Fiscal Policy Note.
  • The Maryland Center for School Safety operates a 5-day training program for SROs that includes topics of “De-escalation, Disability Awareness, Maintaining a Positive School Climate, Constructive Interactions with Students, Implicit Bias, and Disability and Diversity Awareness with specific attention to Racial and Ethnic Disparities.”  
  • PGCPS currently has Memorandums of Agreement* with the Prince George’s County Police Department and police departments in the cities of Bowie, Greenbelt, and Hyattsville. SROs are paid by the county through the law enforcement agencies.
  • PGCPS operates Safety and Security Services within the Supporting Services Division and employs school security officers who are not SROs. 
  • School Resource Officers are currently assigned to all PGCPS high schools and some middle schools.
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What’s Best for Our Kids During a Pandemic?

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by Sarah Wayland

The opinions expressed in this piece are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools.

I recently learned that the Maryland State Board of Education is meeting on Tuesday September 1st, 2020 to consider mandating the number of hours that children must spend actively engaged in learning. The graphic is a slide from the presentation that presents the proposal the board is to consider. 

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All schools must provide 6 hours of instruction per day. And, by implication, all children must engage in 6 hours of instruction per day.

This is not reasonable.

It is not reasonable to mandate that all children must engage in 6 hours per day of electronically-delivered instruction. There are many reasons. Some of the most compelling include:

  1. Equitable access to the internet and electronic devices that allow for such access. According to EdWeek, a third of K-12 students aren’t adequately connected for remote learning.  
  2. Developmentally appropriate expectations regarding daily engagement and focus with academic content. Parents who homeschool their children regularly find that their children can accomplish their learning goals with 2-3 hours per day of focused learning. Importantly, “time doing academic study was determined by the pace at which we got through the material, rather than how many hours we did.” (quote from the linked article).
  3. Developmentally appropriate limits on screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children get at least one hour of physical activity each day, as well as 8-12 hours of sleep each night. And if ADULTS are having a hard time with Zoom Fatigue, our kids are going to struggle as well. 
  4. Children with disabilities, especially disabilities that impact focus and executive functioning, are going to struggle disproportionately with these demands. 
  5. We are experiencing an extended period of national trauma and ambiguous loss right now, and our kids are experiencing it right along with us. To expect them to act as if everything is normal is unreasonable. 

It is not reasonable to expect parents to help their children engage in 6 hours per day of remotely-delivered instruction. Parents cannot both earn a living and monitor their children’s engagement with education. Parents were busy (and often overwhelmed) before the pandemic hit. Asking them to take on even more responsibility now is just not possible for many families. 

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MAREE Reopening Guide Recommendations

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Screen Shot 2020-08-07 at 10.01.16 PMHello, My name is Janna Parker, board member of PGCABS. We are a nonpartisan grassroots community organization that focuses on supporting our community to ensure that all students and residents of Prince George’s county receive a quality education from our school system. We are currently looking for additional board members to continue the vision of our organization for the betterment of the schools within our county.

During the past year, PGCABS signed on with MAREE, Maryland Alliance for Racial Equity in Education — a Maryland Coalition of several different organizations that focuses on advocating for equity in education for Black and Brown students and residents within the state of Maryland through local and state policies and guidelines. The board members of PGCABS felt as though it was important to be partners within this coalition because many of our students, families, and residents are People of Color and we support any and all legislation and/or policies, (whether partisan or non partisan), that positively impacts the education of our students.

Recently, MAREE released a reopening guide with recommendations for schools in Maryland on reopening in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic this fall that focuses on ensuring equity in education for Black and Brown students. We encourage you to read through this guide and provide feedback directly to PGCPS on any recommendations you agree with that may be missing from the PGCPS fall reopening guidelines.

To contact members of the PGCABS Executive Board, email us at pgcabschools@gmail.com. Thank you.

MAREE School Reopening Guide

A Message to Our Community

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Photo by Obi Onyeador on Unsplash

by Robyn Kravitz

To our Prince George’s County family,

Here at Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools (PGCABS), we have made the intentional decision to provide facts, to provide primary sources, and to help provide tools so you can advocate for what you feel is best for your student(s), your family, and your community. We haven’t endorsed individuals; we endorse ideas. We endorse giving equitable opportunities for all voices to rise. And we endorse our community.

We are united in the belief that every child has the right to a quality education and every family has the right to be heard. Right now, we are grieving, we are scared, we are empowered, we are one community. On the eve of the primary election, I am sitting in my dining room listening to sirens. I am tracking snap chat and twitter. I want to help my community right now. Should I stay in? Should I go out and be a body for change? But instead, I sit here. Not sure what to say and not sure what advice to offer. So much feels broken. So much is inspiring. The news feels scary. And I can’t hug my friends.

I hope everyone has voted in this primary election and plans to vote in November. Despite the turmoil, the government is still pushing forward. Progress is still happening. As community members, we all must stay engaged and vocal. There are so many initiatives both small and large that we will feel the effects of for years and generations to come. We must stay engaged over the Kirwan Commission recommendations. Conversations around restorative practices and the school-to-prison pipeline need our engagement and our voices.

While I am grieving George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and all of those who have suffered at the hands of the police, I am looking for ways to honor their lives. My heart tells me that I can use the passion, the anger, the sadness, and all other other emotions I’m experiencing to stay engaged with our school system. I won’t stop working toward an equitable education for all in our county. I hope you’ll join us.

In community,

Robyn Kravitz, PGCABS Chair

Moving Forward with Covid-19: What’s Next for Maryland Schools?

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by Lori Morrow

Lori Morrow is a board member of the Prince George’s Advocates for Better Schools and was appointed as the Parent Member of the Maryland State Board of Education in March 2020. The opinions expressed here are her own.

Two months ago, I was sworn in as a member of the Maryland State Board of Education under the most unusual circumstances: 6 feet apart from the county clerk, barely inside the front doors, with no family or friends as witnesses. In February, I expected much of my 3.5-year term to focus on the Kirwan Commission recommendations. Instead the Blueprint bill was recently vetoed by Governor Larry Hogan and the upcoming years will most likely be focused on Covid-19, school closures, the trauma in our communities, and how we move forward.

Distance learning has been a monumental feat across the state.  I commend the teachers, school staff, parents, and students who shifted rapidly in mid-March to make this happen, while also jumping into action to address issues of food insecurity, child care, and massive unemployment. Our public schools do so much more than teach curriculum, and this crisis has highlighted the important role they serve.

There are only a few weeks left of the 2019-20 school year, and the biggest question is, “What comes next?” There is no single answer, as each of the 24 school districts develops a plan for their county. However, I am fairly confident in saying that school will not look “normal” when it starts back up in the fall. We are facing a school year where parents and volunteers may not be able to host events or assist inside the buildings in the way we have before. While public health will dictate many circumstances, we must take the time to look at how we can be involved. This is a time to remember advocacy is a core mission of National PTA and many PTOs. We must work together with school leaders to ensure all of Maryland’s children get the education they deserve.

What can parents and community members do?

  1. Read the Maryland Recovery Plan for Education. These are the overarching options and guidelines that local districts are considering. Comments can be emailed to educationplan.msde@maryland.gov. The document is still in draft form and will continue to evolve with stakeholder input.
  1. Avoid rumors. The Maryland Recovery Plan does not outline specific dates or timelines. Check the Maryland rumors page or be sure to share information directly from school district or state websites.
  1. Start planning locally. It is okay to grieve for the events and activities we missed out on this school year, and those we may have to skip next year too. In-person meetings, back-to-school nights, and family events may not be possible. This is a time to get creative to find things we CAN do, and don’t forget to involve students in the brainstorming and planning too!
  1. Participate in feedback opportunities at all levels: school, district and state. Take advantage of any survey opportunities; share ideas with school and PTA leaders; and send constructive comments to district and state leaders. Solutions usually go farther than complaints.
  1. Stay active in PTA/PTO for next school year and continue to advocate as situations evolve. We may not have the same events or fundraisers, but parent voice will be even more important when we can’t meet in person.

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Q & A with Bryan Swann, District 4 Board of Education Candidate

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20180401_104158 (1)This is part of an ongoing series of interviews with the 2020 Prince George’s County Board of Education candidates. Dr. Bryan Swann is a candidate from District 4 (see district map here) running in the June 2 primary election. Mr. Swann answered questions generated by members of Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools.

Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools does not endorse or oppose any candidate for the Board of Education.

 

Tell us about your background and your plans to move our school system forward. Why do you want to be on the Board of Education?

Product of & Parent of PGCPS

I was born and raised in Cheverly, Landover Hills and Glenn Dale, MD. I spent all of my childhood and the majority of my adulthood in District 4. I graduated salutatorian from Largo High School, Charles Carroll Middle School, and Bladensburg Elem, where my mother was a 5th/6th grade teacher for over 20 years and a principal/vice principal at various PGCPS elementary schools for 15 years. Being one of three sons of a phenomenal elementary teacher, we saw how education was used for greatness, passion, and service. Like many other students, school was our second home. We loved school! We saw how it literally transformed lives and families. I thank our mother every day for instilling in us a passion for education and service. This passion is the reason that I want to continue to serve our schools as the District 4 Board of Education Member and raise my two sons (Bryan-10 and Bryce-6) in PGCPS. We need the right servant leader on the board. I know I am that leader. I humbly ask and thank you for your vote!

Education & Experience

Immediately after graduating high school, I joined the US Marine Corps while enrolling at University of Maryland. I have always wanted to serve our community and country. After finishing a tour in Iraq and becoming a combat veteran, I earned a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland at College Park and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University.

You can see my complete resume: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanswann/. But in summary, I worked in the White House during the Obama Administration, the U.S. Department of Defense, the private sector, and currently a Deputy Director of Financial Management at the U.S. Department of the Treasury headquarters. I manage and oversee billions of dollars through a variety of financial processes including budget forecasting, budget execution & reconciliation, and procurement to ensure accountability for successful results. My background in finance management uniquely qualifies me to oversee our multi-billion educational budget to ensure we achieve excellence for all.

Recently, I was selected from a pool of highly qualified candidates by County Executive Alsobrooks to finish the last year of the previous District 4 Board of Education seat and was unanimously approved by the Prince George’s County Council (click here for more information). I have already attended dozens of schools (during the school day), PTA and civic organization meetings and hosted several virtual educational meetings to support our community during this current time (see my FB page for more information and recordings).

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Q & A with Shayla Adams-Stafford, District 4 Board of Education Candidate

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DSC_5110 (1)This is part of an ongoing series of interviews with the 2020 Prince George’s County Board of Education candidates. Shayla Adams-Stafford is a candidate from District 4 (see district map here) running in the June 2 primary election. Ms. Adams-Stafford answered questions generated by members of Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools.

Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools does not endorse or oppose any candidate for the Board of Education.

Tell us about your background and your plans to move our school system forward. Why do you want to be on the Board of Education?

I have spent my entire career focused on education and issues of educational equity. I began teaching over 10  years ago in North Carolina using project-based learning.  While there I obtained my National Board Teaching Certification. I then moved to Maryland where I worked in DCPS and became an award-winning educator and instructional coach speaking at the White House on behalf of teachers using project based learning in urban settings. I now travel nationally and internationally training teachers and school leaders on equitable, culturally relevant practices. I also operate a non profit, RemixEducation which has supported over 200 students across several states with mentorship and access to technology. In this role I have managed large teams and a budget of large grants.  I presently manage a software and consulting company where we work at the state level providing services to teachers and leaders.  I am encouraged by the immense resources and opportunities we have here in our County. With access to the nation’s capital and growing technology sector I think we are perfectly positioned to be the best district in Maryland.  However, I am realizing there is much work to be done to truly make this district equitable for all students. As I talk to parents in my community, many are frustrated with the disrepair of our schools, lack of support for Special Needs students and years of corruption and mismanagement. I am running because I believe that with my perspective as a national leader in education, I can leverage my networks and experience to bring innovative and proven solutions to our issues.

What do you believe are the most important characteristics of an effective school board?

I think an effective school board will work together collaboratively and seek to engage all stakeholders in decision making processes. They would also hold the Superintendent accountable and strive to improve conditions for teaching and learning for all students.

What would be your top three priorities while serving on the board, if elected?

My top three priorities while serving on the board would be reducing class sizes through the construction of new schools and renovation of older existing schools. I would also focus on recruiting and retaining the best and brightest teachers to work in our school system. We are facing a teacher shortage and we will ultimately need more teachers in order to meet the logistical challenges presented by reopening to COVID 19.  Lastly, I would prioritize ending the school to prison pipeline by supporting the training and expansion of restorative practices, and alternative disciplinary measures.

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Q & A with Mohammed Ali, District 4 Board of Education Candidate

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This is part of an ongoing series of interviews with the 2020 Prince George’s County Board of Education candidates. Dr. Mohammed Ali is a candidate from District 4 (see district map here) running in the June 2 primary election. Dr. Ali answered questions generated by members of Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools.

Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools does not endorse or oppose any candidate for the Board of Education.

Tell us about your background and your plans to move our school system forward. Why do you want to be on the Board of Education?

I have a B.S./M.S. in Computer Science, and Doctorate in Education from Morgan State University. My goal is to ensure that our youth can compete in the 21st I believe we can do that by providing them with the resources they need the teachers that are compassionate and qualified in the field of education.

I have spent my entire career focused on issues of educational equity. I am a qualified candidate because I value education and have lived in this district for over twenty years. I am a professor of mathematics and information technology at Prince George’s Community College and served in various committee positions at the college. I am a former elementary and secondary Teacher and served as School Education Board at Prince George’s Muslim Association in Lanham, Maryland. Additionally, I have served as a community chair in Maryland and authored of children’s books.

What do you believe are the most important characteristics of an effective school board?

    1. Effectively school board should have a strong education background in the field of education.
    2. Having very good exposure in all levels of Educational decisions.
    3. Has the ability to integrate the communities, parents, educational administrators.
    4. Management of budget in the area of education.
    5. Strong leadership and guidance for parents, teachers and the community.

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Q & A with Alethia J. Simmons, District 4 Board of Education Candidate

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alethiaj (1)This is part of an ongoing series of interviews with the 2020 Prince George’s County Board of Education candidates. Dr. Alethia J. Simmons is a candidate from District 4 (see district map here) running in the June 2 primary election. Dr. Branch answered questions generated by members of Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools.

Prince George’s County Advocates for Better Schools does not endorse or oppose any candidate for the Board of Education.

Tell us about your background and your plans to move our school system forward. Why do you want to be on the Board of Education?

I want to be a voice that articulates the​ Heart​ of students, teachers, staff and parents. My education and professional background of 40+ years as a public school student, educator, administrator, nonprofit organization founder/CEO, community leader, author, tv host, ordained minister, mother of a District 4 High School graduate and presently a grandmother of a PGCPS middle school student, I know firsthand the cry from those who are often overlooked in our busy quest to provide academic excellence. Hence, I am humbled by these experiences and look forward to the opportunity to dedicate myself to connecting the pieces that will strengthen Prince George’s County Public Schools.

  • DC Teachers College, Washington, DC, BS degree, Elementary Education
  • Trinity College, Washington, DC, MS degree, Guidance and Counseling
  • Maple Spring Seminary, Capitol Hgts, MD, MS degree, Biblical Studies
  • Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, DMin degree, Theology
  • Classroom Teacher, DC Public Schools
  • Educational Counselor and Program Coordinator, EOC, Washington, DC
  • Teacher, Counselor, Principal, Training Development Specialist, Special Assistant, Administrator of Higher Education and Educational Services, DC Dept of Corrections
  • Substitute Teacher, PGCPS
  • CEO, 7 Keys to a Mother’s Heart Ministry, Wash, DC and MD, non profit organization
  • Associate Minister, TNMBC, Washington, DC

What do you believe are the most important characteristics of an effective school board?

  • An effective school board establishes a clear vision, mission, defined goals, core values and a strategic organization plan for moving forward,
  • Operates as a team that is goal oriented, committed, flexible, dependable, helpful, supportive, willing to generate ideas/solutions, trustworthy and respectful of one another,
  • Develops program objectives and educational policies that will facilitate continuous. student achievement and classroom instructional excellence.
  • Maintains open channels of communication that engages relationships with staff, parents, students and community partners.

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