District Two Issues
Over the past year and a half as the District Two Board Member, I’ve engaged with various constituency groups, including parents, students, teachers, principals, PTA advocates, and elected officials. During these conversations, I tracked recurring concerns and distilled them into the top three issues frequently raised for District Two.
Teacher Shortage
Even though District 2 has thriving learning environments for students and staff, broadly speaking, the education field needs help attracting teachers to the profession. Several vacancies remain open in numerous schools throughout District 2, with the most severe need existing around specialty programs like STEAM and language immersion. In D2, I will continue to focus on recruitment efforts to bring high-quality teachers into our schools, including advocating for pipeline programs that offer pathway opportunities for our students and expanding non-traditional education programs.
Transportation
Transportation improvements have led to more efficient bus routes and better seat utilization, allowing the school district to be both economical and environmentally friendly by maximizing filled seats and reducing the number of vehicles on the road. However, new challenges have emerged, including chronic delays in student pick-up and drop-off, which impact academic performance and student well-being due to late arrivals at school or returning home late. In District 2, I am committed to addressing these transportation issues effectively and ensuring that our solutions do not lead to unintended consequences.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
PGCPS recently received a $25 million grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission to expand students' mental health and wellness resources. This funding will enable PGCPS to partner with 18 organizations to enhance access to mental health support, supplementing the work of school counselors, psychologists, social workers, and mental health clinicians. By bridging gaps in behavioral health services, this initiative will emphasize crisis intervention, mental wellness education, and improved access to professional care. In D2, I am dedicated to advocating for strong resources to support our student's mental health and well-being in school.