The Board of Education met on Tuesday (November 8) and, among other items, approved a resolution to investigate ways to improve public participation in the budget process and approved a resolution regarding testimony at operating budget hearings.

The Board also reviewed a report on alternative programs, named the Clarksburg area high school, and approved plans for improvements to Albert Einstein High School. In addition, the Board reviewed an update on the Supporting Services Professional Growth System, engaged in a dialogue on accelerated mathematics in elementary school, and reaffirmed its position to oppose the disposition of the former Robert E. Peary High School. The Board also recognized the observance of Veterans Day and American Education Week.

Report on Community Forums on Strategic Planning and Budget

The Board discussed feedback provided by the community during the three public forums held this fall on the strategic planning and budgeting process. The Board approved a resolution to have the Board's Research and Evaluation Committee work with the superintendent and members of the public to find ways to encourage increased public participation in the developmental phase of the budget process.

PTA Testimony at Operating Budget Hearings

The Board approved a resolution regarding testimony at public hearings on the FY 2007 operating budget that provides a five-minute time period for testimony from representatives of PTAs, employee unions, municipalities, elected officials, Montgomery County Taxpayers Association, and Montgomery County Civic Federation. Other organizations and individuals who wish to testify will be provided a three-minute time allotment on a first-come, first-served basis.

Alternative Programs

The Board reviewed an update on alternative program services, including intervention strategies and the process used for referral of students to alternative programs. A work group is examining the impact of current alternative programs and making recommendations about the redirection of resources to better meet the needs of students.

Naming of the New Clarksburg Area High School

The Board approved Clarksburg High School as the name for the new Clarksburg area high school scheduled to open in 2006, following a recommendation of the school naming committee. The naming of schools follows Board of Education Policy FFA and Regulation FFA-RA, Naming Schools.

Preliminary Plans for Albert Einstein High School

The Board approved preliminary plans for improvements to Albert Einstein High School.

Update on the Supporting Services Professional Growth System

The Board reviewed an update on the Supporting Services Professional Growth System, which reforms the professional development and evaluation programs for supporting services employees. Implementation has begun and will continue over a three-year period.

Management and Fiscal Policy Committee Review of the Proposed Sale of the Former Robert E. Peary High School

The Board voted to reaffirm its position to oppose the disposition of the former Robert E. Peary High School because the facility may be needed for future educational purposes and forwarded a copy of this action to the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee of the County Council as clarification of its earlier action.

Dialogue on Current Issue

The Board engaged in a dialogue on the importance of accelerated opportunities in mathematics for elementary school students that will prepare students for successful completion of algebra in middle school and further challenging programs.

Veterans Day

The Board recognized the observance of Veterans Day, commending the school community for honoring and celebrating the contributions of our veterans.

American Education Week

The Board declared the observance of American Education Week in Montgomery County Public Schools from November 13 through 19 and encouraged community involvement in the education process.

Board of Education: Mrs. Patricia B. O'Neill, president. Dr. Charles Haughey, vice president. Members: Mr. Steve Abrams, Ms. Sharon Cox, Ms. Valerie Ervin, Ms. Nancy Navarro, Mr. Gabe Romero, and Mr. Sebastian Johnson, student member. Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent and secretary-treasurer. Office of the Board: 301-279-3617.