Frederick, MD — Parents and community members gathered on September 10th outside the Frederick County Board of Education to call for stronger academics, respect for families, and safe schools.
The event drew loud counter-protesters, but Better Maryland Schools members remained calm and respectful throughout. Video released today shows parents holding signs peacefully, even as they were shouted at.
“Our focus is simple: put children first,” said Allison Rizzo, a governance team member of Better Maryland Schools. “We will not be distracted by noise. Maryland’s kids deserve better schools, not louder protests.”
One of the most moving moments came when a group of Catholic parents gathered quietly to pray the rosary. As they prayed, they were followed and harassed, but they did not respond in anger. Instead, they were escorted to safety by Frederick Police officers.
“Even under pressure, they chose peace,” Erin Martorano added. “That is the example we want in our schools: calm, dignity, and a focus on what matters most — our children.”
Better Maryland Schools reaffirmed its commitment to three clear priorities:
1. Put Academics First — Every child deserves to read, write, and do math at grade level.
2. Respect Parents — Families must be treated as partners in education, not bystanders.
3. Keep Schools Safe — Classrooms should be free of bullying, intimidation, and politics.
A short highlight video with narration has been released to accompany this statement.
The video shows both the disruptions parents faced and the peaceful way they responded.
By Authority of Tyler Cureton, Treasurer