PTAs AND THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Board of Education members contact information
General Information: 410-313-6600

One of the missions of PTA is “to support and speak on behalf of children and youth in the schools, in the community and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting children.” Responsibilities of the Board of Education include expressing and representing the view of the community in matters affecting education. Advocate for your children – let the Board members know what issues are of concern to you and your PTA.

There are multiple opportunities for PTAs and citizens to address the Board of Education.

• Agendas and Board Reports have gone paperless. They are posted on the HCPSS BOE website. Click on BoardDocs link.
  • PTA members are encouraged to serve on HCPSS and BOE task forces and advisory committees.
  • PTA newsletters should include important school system issues.

The Board of Education should not be confused with the Department of Education. The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is embodied in the Department of Education (DOE), as distinguished from the Board of Education (BOE).

BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Board of Education (BOE) of Howard County – sometimes referred to as “the School Board” – is composed of seven members elected to four-year terms, and a student member elected by students for a one-year term. Five members are elected by district and two members are elected at-large. elected at large. Members of the board are elected on a staggered basis and elections are held in even-numbered years.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Board of Education of Howard County is responsible for setting local education policy consistent with state and federal laws governing public education. At the direction of the Board, the Superintendent and the school system’s administrative staff develop procedures and administrative regulations to support policy decisions.

MEETINGS
The Board holds public Regular Meetings as a forum for discussion, consensus building, conduct of business, and formulation of policy. These are usually held on every second and fourth Thursday of the month beginning at 4 p.m.
After a dinner break, the Board usually reconvenes at 7:30 p.m.

PUBLIC FORUM
At the beginning of each session of the regular meetings, the Board sets aside time for up to 5 citizens to bring subjects of concern which are not on that meeting’s agenda to the Board’s attention. Each speaker is limited to 3 minutes. On March 11, 2021, the Board of Education transitioned to a hybrid Board meeting format, providing the public the opportunity to participate in public forums virtually or in person.

Community members may sign up for a public forum by emailing the Board of Education office (boardoffice@hcpss.org) with public forum topic. A request to speak does not guarantee confirmation. Prior to the meeting, registrants will be provided confirmation and instructions how to read their comments during a Board meeting.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
On matters of policy, the Board initially receives and reviews a report, along with accompanying administrative recommendations, if any, in public session. Approximately a month after preliminary discussion of the items, the Board holds a public hearing so citizens may comment on the proposed policy in an open forum. Registration begins three weeks prior to the date of the meeting.

HOW TO CONTACT THE BOARD MEMBERS
The Board welcomes phone calls, traditional letters and emails. A traditional letter addressed to the Chairperson will be copied to all members, including the Superintendent. Emails sent to the general boe@hcpss.org are forwarded to all members.

TELEPHONE CALLS
Members of the Board do not have offices at the Department of Education. Board members welcome calls from citizens at their homes.