Pr. George's Politicos React to School Overhaul

A bill which overhauls the Prince George's County School Board became official today with the signature of Gov. Martin O'Malley. Now, officials representing a broad swath of education, government and economic interests are closely watching to see how county officials adjust to the new structure, according to a report in The Gazette. 

The bill, passed by the Maryland General Assembly over the weekend, allows Baker to select the next superintendent of county public school system. Only, the superintendent title also changes, now called the chief executive officer (CEO). 

O’Malley will select a three person search committee, who will then select three candidates for the CEO position. Baker will select the new CEO from this list of finalists. The county executive will also have the authority to select both the chair and the vice chair of the board of education, and to make one appointment to the board.

The bill also expands the school board to 13 members.

Former Prince George's County District 7 Councilor Henry Armwood told The Gazette that there could be some angst between officials in the county school system and county government resulting from the brief but bitter debate over reforming the school board.

According to The Gazette, Prince George's County Chamber of Commerce President and former Prince George's County Councilor David Harrington said he hoped all involved would put aside their differences and focus on improving education in the county.

Same with Bob Ross, president of the Prince George's County Chapter of the NAACP. He told The Gazette "we need to stop the madness and do what is best for our children."

Both Scott Peterson, spokesman for County Executive Rushern Baker, and School Board Chair Verjeana Jacobs (Dist. 5), told The Gazette that they look forward to developing a working relationship which puts an emphasis on the education of Prince George's County's children.