Michael Fryar Runs For Montgomery County Board Of Education At Large

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — It's primary election season in Maryland. Early voting runs through Thursday, July 14. Primary election day is Tuesday, July 19. Voters can also return their ballot by mail, or place it in a drop box.

Residents can learn when, where and how to can vote by clicking here. Voters can see which districts they live in by using this tool. Visit this link to see who is running in each district.

Patch asked Montgomery County Board of Education candidates to complete a questionnaire outlining their priorities.

Michael Fryar, an at-large candidate for the Montgomery County Board of Education, participated in our survey. Fryar's responses are posted below.

Name

Michael Fryar

Campaign website

https://www.anewdawn4boe.com/

City or town of residence

Gaithersburg

Office sought

Board of Education, At Large

Education

Law (J.D.), MBA in finance, M.Ed.

Occupation

Attorney/Teacher 30 years

Family

Jack (11), Ryan Elise (13), Karissa (20)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Age

54

Previous public office, appointive or elective

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I have 30+ years of experience in education. I worked been a classroom teacher, a social worker, an attorney and an advocate for children and families. I am passionate about helping children and their families get high quality education that engages their needs and interests.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have practical classroom experience and have worked with children and families directly for 30+ years.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

Shut down the school system for the longest in the United States, has not voted against special interests such as the union, and has not challenged the administration on any request.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

With the achievement gap, made even worse by the school shutdown.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

30+ years in education, education law and education administration.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

More than intelligence, education or experience, persistence is the key to success.