School Board Agendas, Reports, and Minutes

On July 1, 2014 I reviewed multiple agendas, reports, and minutes from the Washington County
School Board meetings. During my review, I was able to find several significant events, policy changes
and recurring themes and concerns.
Many significant events occurred in the 2014 fiscal year for Washington County Public Schools.
One major change was in the location of the board building. The school board had been looking for a
new location due to the dilapidation of the current location. Although many people wanted the board
office moved to Downtown Hagerstown, the Downsville Pike location was selected. This building was
purchased and renovated for a significantly less price than many of the properties that still were in need
of renovation in Downtown Hagerstown. With all the snow, the school board also had to make decision
regarding the school calendar. An election also occurred this year that includes school board members.
This was noted in the minutes. Finally, the school board also award Williamsport High School with
$45,000 that was donated for athletic needs.
This year the school board had a few policy changes. One major policy change that was done in
good favor was the grading system in the secondary school. The school board now includes sixty to sixty-
nine percent in a class as passing. Prior to this policy anything below a seventy percent was failing. The
discipline policy was also updated to meet the requirements of the Maryland State Department of
Education. Clear guidelines have been described and are available to parents and students in a hope to
maintain a proper learning environment. Finally, an Ethics Policy was put in place. This policy requires
that certain school officials disclose their financial affairs and to set a minimum standard for their
conduct of school system business.
Many recurring themes and concerns arose within the board minutes, agendas, and notes.
Safety was a concern. New doors and windows are coming to Springfield Middle and the camera usage
is to be continued. Of course, policies were discussed and reviewed. In addition, there was a great deal
of voting going on at the board meetings. The budget was discussed along with bills that needed paid
and equipment that needed purchased. Towards the end of the school year, orientations, curriculum
and professional development were bought to attention during the meetings. Lastly, technology always
seemed to be on the agenda. Washington County is looking to buy more technology and renew
contracts with current software and data companies.