Commissioner Howard Clarifies Position on Closing Schools, Education Funding

It appeared from the Patch coverage that it was not clear that I am opposed to the ultimatum being given to the Board of Education with regards to school closing or “maintenance of effort”. I was being critical of that approach.

If I was not clear in the way it was stated, I am in favor of the facilities study being done, but not for the pre-ordained purpose of determining to close a school.

I am also against “maintenance of effort” funding. I believe the $164 million level that was set with last year’s budget for FY14 is appropriate. And, while I am interested in seeing the ideas that come from the facilities survey, I am not in favor of closing schools just based on available seats. To make such a costly and disruptive move should only come if there is clear and compelling evidence of savings, those savings will be applied to education and the actions will not undermine our education system.

Doug Howard
President
Carroll County Board of Commissioners