The Primary will be held on April 3rd but early voting will begin next Saturday March 24th.
A crowd of over 120 citizens turned out Tuesday evening at Frederick Community College to listen to the views of the twelve candidates running for a position on the Frederick County Board of Education. Even though the primary is unaffiliated, or not party based, the candidates range from the very Conservative to the very Liberal.
In the first round the subject of teacher pay was discussed. Candidate Tony Chemlik was not so certain salary increases could be justified. "The economy is not totally recovered yet. Others may feel the need to provide a raise to teachers but that still may not be the correct thing to do."
Candidate Donna Crook who is seeking re-election, said "It is not easy to cut the BOE budget when 86 percent of our budget is people and goes to salaries."
Candidate Tom Shade was more direct "It is time for the Board of County Commissioners to help out in keeping Frederick County competitive with other neighboring counties."
Colleen Cusimano in her second try for a Board of Education Seat, was concerned about the recent story in which a large amount of BOE property has been apparently lost. She sees the need for a better accounting of items once they are purchased. Cindy Ann Rose is concerned about the amount of money spent on equipment for renovations. She feels that money could be better spent putting it toward salaries.
Pam Ward, teaches at Frederick Community College and is a candidate for the BOE. She works with students who come out of Frederick County High Schools but still need math remediation before pursuing their college career at FCC. "Changes to the Core Curriculum hopefully will address the skills students are lacking as they start their college careers.
Kathryn Groth is another BOE candidate who is up for reelection this year. She feels one of the strengths of FCPS schools is the good learning and teaching environments which are provided to the taxpayers of Frederick County. A local scientist Zahir Bengali, wants to insure students get a strong reading background as the move through the system. Joy Schaffer is a parent who has served on many Board Committees and has volunteered in the schools for many years.
The Primary will be held on April 3rd but early voting will begin next Saturday March 24th. Since all candidates are not affiliated with any party, all voters, even those who do not declare a party preference may vote for candidates to the Board of Education.
