On August 22nd, a forum for the Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Board of Education candidates at the C. Burr Artz Public Library. The event, organized by the Black Advancement, a local nonprofit focused on improving the lives of Black communities and other marginalized groups, was led by the organization’s CEO and founder, Agyeman Goodman, a passionate advocate for education reform, social justice, and community upliftment. Goodman emphasized the need for diverse leadership and equitable solutions in the school system, setting the tone for an engaging and informative discussion.
The Black Advancement: Advocating for Equity
The Black Advancement has played an active role in advocating for policies that promote equality and access for all Frederick County residents, especially students. By organizing this forum, the organization provided a platform for candidates to share their vision for the future of the county’s schools and discuss the critical challenges facing students, educators, and the broader community.
In his opening remarks, Goodman stressed the importance of the upcoming school board election, which he noted would significantly impact the lives of students, especially those from underrepresented groups. He called for candidates who prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion in education, while addressing the unique challenges faced by students of color, economically disadvantaged students, and those with special needs.
In attendance were Jaime Kiersten Brennan, Josh Bokee, Janie Monier, and Chad King Wilson, Sr. Veronica Lowe cancelled her attendance due to illness. During the forum, the candidates discussed their approaches to some of the most pressing issues facing the school system. They also answered questions from the audience, engaging in discussions about the future of education in Frederick County. The conversation revolved around several critical areas:
Equity and Inclusion: A recurring theme of the forum was the need for more diverse leadership and equitable practices within the school system. Candidates emphasized the importance of recruiting a more diverse teaching workforce and ensuring that policies reflect the needs of all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Teacher Retention: With teacher shortages impacting school systems nationwide, the candidates highlighted the importance of supporting and retaining teachers. Discussions focused on providing better compensation, professional development opportunities, and mental health support for educators to address burnout and ensure high-quality teaching in every classroom.
Mental Health: The mental health of students was a significant concern for many candidates. They advocated for increased funding for mental health services, including school counselors and social workers, to support students dealing with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The need for comprehensive support systems to address both academic and emotional needs was a key priority.
Parental Involvement: The role of parents as partners in their children’s education was another important topic. Candidates underscored the value of fostering stronger relationships between schools and families, encouraging greater parental involvement in decision-making processes, and ensuring clear and effective communication between educators and parents.
The forum at the C. Burr Artz Public Library provided an invaluable opportunity for residents to engage with the candidates, ask critical questions, and learn more about the future direction of Frederick County Public Schools. Thanks to the efforts of Agyeman Goodman and the Black Advancement, key issues were brought to the forefront of the discussion.
With several pivotal issues at stake—from closing achievement gaps to improving mental health support—the upcoming FCPS Board of Education election will be crucial in shaping the future of education in Frederick County. The forum helped to highlight the importance of electing leaders who are dedicated to creating an equitable and thriving educational environment for all students.