Glenn: Support The Movement For A New High School

From Havre de Grace City Councilman David Glenn:
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[Dr. Robert] Tomback, Harford County Public Schools Superintendent recently informed David Craig, Harford County Executive that the will be holding a public hearing on Monday, August 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at A.A. Roberty Building, 102 South Hickory Avenue, Bel Air. This is our opportunity to address the need for a new Havre de Grace High School for our community.

So why a new high school at ? For one, we have the oldest standing high school in the county. More importantly, we have security concerns and facility infrastructure challenges. We cannot afford to run the risk of a security break-down that has been experienced throughout the country. In addition, just recently one of the classrooms experienced flooding. We have stood by to watch significant upgrades to North Harford, Bel Air, Edgewood and Aberdeen. We stood by and watch the construction of a new school at Patterson Mill. Again, we have waited patiently never once complaining. In addition, we do not have a magnet program at . If our children want to participate in a magnet program, they have to relocate to another school elsewhere within Harford County. One has to ask the question why? Is it because that the current school structure at Havre de Grace will not accommodate growth and expansion to support such a program? Performing Arts would be a great program to pursue at Havre de Grace. We have exceptional band and chorus instructors, a viable drama guild program through Parks and Recreation and the Tidewater Players. A performing arts program would provide children an opportunity to pursue their lifelong dreams. Also keep in mind that upgrades to high schools is deemed absolutely critical if we expect our graduates to be able to meet the technological challenges of the future.

We need your support and request your attendance at this public hearing.  Years ago when was in dire need of renovations, it wasn’t until we as a community came out in big numbers (approximately 150 were in attendance) that our voice was finally heard.  Therefore, we once again need residents to attend this very important public hearing. It is not important for everyone to speak. We just want to show the Superintendent and the Board of Education that the need for a new school is critical in the eyes of the Havre de Grace community. Strength in numbers will send a strong message that it is on our radar screen and therefore, needs to be on their radar screen. Again, a huge turn-out will help to do just that. It will also give us the opportunity to stress that we want our kids to have the same opportunity for educational success as other schools throughout the county.

I request your attendance at the August 20 public hearing. Again, this is our primary opportunity to have our voices heard. Pass the word because again, we need strength in numbers. Look forward to seeing you on August 20.

David Glenn
Havre de Grace