Notes From The Wicomico County Board of Education, September 2011

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting on Sept. 13:

Moment of Silence

Observed a moment of silence in memory of the late Alice Davis, a Parkside High School English teacher, and in memory of the victims and heroes of 9/11, now marked annually by the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Board member Dr. Carolyn Elmore, who had served as Mrs. Davis’ supervisor for 11 years, praised her devotion and dedication to students and her quiet support of colleagues and her school. “It’s a tragedy that we have lost such a fine instructor, but an even greater tragedy that we have lost such a fine person,” Dr. Elmore said. Board member Larry Dodd also expressed condolences to the Davis family.

Public Comment

Heard public comments from:

A grandparent who was concerned about her grandchild’s class placement and the school’s responses to her inquiries. She said she would share further details with the Board and Superintendent.

A number of people, including students, who again requested that the Board reverse the transfer of a James M. Bennett High physical education teacher and coach and allow him to return to JMB.

A number of parents who thanked the Board and staff for meeting with the Salisbury Middle School PTA to address its concerns at the change in the SRO program. Speakers said the process showed that respectful, effective communication and cooperation among all parties can lead to positive solutions.

Ben Brumbley, President of the Wicomico County Council of PTAs, who shared information about upcoming events and state PTA awards to several schools for PTA participation.

Superintendent’s Report

Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen that:

He met with Sheriff Mike Lewis, County Executive Rick Pollitt, representatives of the Salisbury Middle School PTA, and a number of other staff members and interested parties and an agreement was reached for the school system to split the cost of an additional school resource officer (SRO) with the Sheriff’s Office. This will restore the number of SROs to the same number as last year, before one SRO position was cut due to budget constraints. The school system and Sheriff’s Office will each pay $28,000 to fund the SRO position for the remainder of this fiscal year. [Restoring the SRO position was contingent on the Board of Education approving a $28,000 transfer from School Management & Support for salary to Student Personnel for contracted services. The Board approved the transfer later in the meeting, and the Wicomico County Council subsequently voted to allow the transfer.] Board members said that cutting the SRO position to save money gave them heartburn, and that they’re glad the school system, parents and community could come together to work out a solution. They urged parents and the community to get educated and involved on budget issues that impact education.
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