All six candidates running for the Frederick County Board of Education participated in a forum on Sunday, focusing on the growing role of technology in education and the importance of early childhood education. The event took place at Hood College and was organized in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Frederick County. Approximately 50 community members attended.
The candidates—Colt Morningstar Black, Josh Bokee, Jaime Kiersten Brennan, Veronica D. Lowe, Janie Monier, and Chad King Wilson Sr.—responded to questions from moderator Betty Mayfield, a former math professor at Hood College and a past co-president of the League. Over six rounds, they were asked a total of six questions, with each candidate allowed two minutes for opening and closing statements and one minute to answer each question.
Technology in Schools
Mayfield asked candidates Brennan and Lowe about a recent cellphone policy proposed by the board and how to ensure consistent enforcement across all schools. Currently, there is no formal policy regarding cellphone use in schools. Existing guidelines are included in the Code of Conduct as the board works on creating a formal policy.
Brennan emphasized the importance of involving parents in discussions about cellphone discipline. She noted that parental support is essential for implementing the policy effectively. Lowe agreed, stating that clear communication about expectations is crucial. She highlighted the need to rethink how the policy is shared with parents, saying, “As a candidate running, I knew about it. But as a grandmother involved in my grandson’s education, I didn’t know about it.”
Candidates Black and Monier were asked if they support applying to the Maryland State Board of Education for permission to hold virtual classes on inclement weather days. Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) already has a plan called Learning @ Home Days, which allows for flexible instruction that can be conducted with or without technology.
Black supported the idea of virtual school to replace lost instructional time, suggesting that students could use their Chromebooks at home for this purpose. Monier proposed changing the required 180 instructional days to an hourly system. This approach would allow FCPS to extend school hours on certain days to make up for time lost due to bad weather.
Mayfield also inquired about the increasing use of technology in classrooms, asking Wilson and Bokee to share their views. Wilson noted that the pandemic forced educators to adapt their teaching methods to a virtual environment, revealing disparities in students’ access to technology. He emphasized the need for schools to teach students how to use technology effectively instead of banning it.
Bokee mentioned his nonprofit organization, Connect for Broadband, which aims to bridge the digital divide. He stressed that equitable access to technology is essential for all students to succeed. “If families don’t have the same technology at home, we can’t expect students to compete on a level playing field,” he said.
Advocating for Early Childhood Education
For the third round of questioning, all candidates were asked about their support for early childhood education and potential policies to promote it. Monier highlighted the importance of early intervention for learning disabilities, advocating for resources to be made available as early as pre-K.
Black acknowledged the benefits of funding pre-K programs while also supporting private and religious educational options. He expressed concern that the current funding model struggles to meet existing program needs.
Lowe emphasized the need for early intervention while advocating for funding to cover teachers and resources. Wilson voiced strong support for universal pre-K, urging the board to seek funding at both local and state levels. Brennan acknowledged the importance of early childhood education but raised concerns about the practical implications, such as the need for additional transportation and aftercare.
Bokee mentioned addressing funding issues through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a set of policies enacted by the Maryland State Department of Education.
Closing Statements and Additional Topics
In his closing remarks, Wilson expressed his commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and transparent school environment. Monier highlighted the importance of listening to stakeholders when shaping policies, stating she would ask many questions to better serve the students of FCPS.
Lowe distinguished herself by referencing her experience as a former director of transportation for FCPS, stating that diversity in the board is essential. Brennan called for a representative for parents on the board, stating her desire to be the voice of those who feel unheard and concerned about the curriculum.
Bokee criticized the introduction of extremist ideologies in education, asserting that board members should focus on the practical needs of parents, students, and teachers. Monier, Wilson, and Bokee received endorsements from the Frederick County Teachers Association, often referred to as the “apple ballot.”
Black urged voters to consider whose interests the board represents, emphasizing the importance of independence among board members to avoid conflicts of interest, particularly concerning union-backed candidates.
Candidates also addressed expanding career and technical programs and the board’s role in this effort.
Early voting for the 2024 General Election begins on Thursday and will run until October 31, with Election Day set for November 5.
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