The Board of Education met yesterday [April 22] and, among other items, approved proposed amendments to the Fiscal Year 2003 Operating Budget, endorsed the planned use by the County government of Educational Facilities Officers, and supported annual fire inspections of school facilities proposed by County Council Member Andrews.

The Board also made three administrative appointments, reviewed legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly, and approved the observation of National Volunteer Week, National Student Leadership Week, and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Amendments to the Fiscal Year 2003 Operating Budget

The Board of Education approved proposed amendments to the Fiscal Year 2003 Operating Budget that outlines plans to use $13.5 million in new state and federal funding for school improvements -- including $7.6 million as a result of the new Thornton Commission legislation. The recommendation now goes to the County Council for its approval.

Educational Facilities Officers

The Board unanimously approved a proposal by the County Executive to seek federal funding for 32 Educational Facilities Officers - members of the Department of Police who would be assigned to geographic areas across the county and would be responsible for increased communications, planning, security and emergency preparedness in public and private elementary and secondary schools and on campuses of Montgomery College.

Fire Inspections

The Board voted unanimously in favor of a resolution to support County Council Emergency Bill Number 8-02, which would generally amend County law regarding fire safety code inspections and enforcement, including fire safety code inspection of certain schools at least once a year.

Legislative Session Summary

At the close of the 2002 session of the Maryland General Assembly, a summary of the final outcomes of legislation on which the Board had adopted positions was presented for Board review.

Administrative Appointments

The Board approved the following administrative appointments:

§ Dr. Gary W. Miller, currently interim principal of Silver Spring International Middle School, as principal of the school.

§ Billie-Jean Bensen, currently acting executive assistant in the Office of School Performance, as executive assistant.

§ Linda E. Ferrell, currently acting performance director in the Office of School Performance, as performance director.

National Volunteer Week

The Board marked the observance of National Volunteer Week from April 21-27 in appreciation of all volunteers for their assistance and commitment to schools and students. During the school year, more than 38,700 volunteers gave three million hours of service to staff and students and provided the equivalent hours of 1,422 full-time, 12-month employees. If a dollar amount were attached to these hours of service, the sum would exceed $46 million.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

The Board approved the observance in May of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the nation, state, and county.

Student Leadership Week

The Board commended student leaders for their efforts and achievements on behalf of Montgomery County Public Schools and designated April 21-27 as Student Leadership Week.


Board of Education: Mr. Reginald M. Felton, president; Mrs. Patricia B. O’Neill, vice president. Members: Mr. Steve Abrams, Mr. Kermit V. Burnett, Ms. Sharon W. Cox, Mrs. Nancy J. King, Mr. Walter N. Lange, and Mr. Dustin Jeter, student member. Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent and secretary treasurer. Office of the Board: 301-279-3617.