Have Sent
Greetings,
The Howard County Board of Education has voted to advance a budget that poses a great threat to level of service with significant teacher and support staff cuts. Now the attention turns to the County Executive.
Email the County Executive and Demand Full Funding.
Specifically, the Board voted to increase class sizes and, regrettably, to cut essential programs including those in special education, summer school, and other critical support services. The impact these reductions will have on our students will be detrimental unless we reverse direction.
As the Board's decisions are now in place, the spotlight shifts to the County Executive and the upcoming County Council hearings. These sessions represent a significant opportunity for us to advocate for the full funding of our schools. It is imperative that we do not ease our efforts but instead come together once more with even greater determination.
Here are the next steps where your voice is again vital:
County Council Public Hearings on the Budget:
Tuesday, April 16, 6:00 pm - Public Hearing on the Capital Budget
Monday, April 22, 6:00 pm - Public Hearing on the Operating Budget
Please mark your calendars for these dates. Your presence and testimony could make a substantial difference.
Continue Communication with County Officials:
The Board's resolution to cut budgets puts the onus on the County Executive to fund only what has been requested. It is crucial that we convey the necessity of full funding to avoid the locking in of these damaging cuts.
Email and Testify:
Send emails to the County Executive to demand the full funding needed to sustain our schools.
If you can, please consider speaking at the public hearings. Your voice in person can have an incredible impact.
Your advocacy is not just heard; it resonates and leads to change. Let us strive to ensure our school system is endowed with the resources necessary to provide a quality education for every child.
Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can ensure our children have the future they deserve. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our cause.
Warmest regards,
Hiruy Hadgu.