Howard County Board debates new security positions amid rising school violence

The Howard County Board of Education's public hearing on February 10, 2025, spotlighted critical discussions surrounding the proposed FY 2026 operating budget, particularly the addition of new positions aimed at enhancing school safety and addressing staffing shortages.

Superintendent Dr. Michael Barnes proposed the creation of 65 new positions, primarily focused on special education staff and security assistants. However, the absence of athletic trainers raised eyebrows among stakeholders. The school system currently faces approximately 200 vacancies, with nearly 110 in special education alone, highlighting a persistent staffing crisis that has plagued the district for over five years. Educators voiced concerns that despite previous investments in special education, the inability to fill these roles is exacerbating the learning environment and increasing workloads for existing staff.

Kendra Banks, representing the NAACP, expressed strong reservations about the proposed addition of 33 security positions, arguing that this approach fails to address the root causes of student challenges. She emphasized the need for a shift towards a more supportive, student-centered model that prioritizes mental health resources over increased policing. Banks warned that without proper training and accountability, the expansion of security personnel could lead to a punitive environment rather than a nurturing one.

In contrast, Jillian Engelbrecht, a teacher at Lake Elkhorn Middle School, advocated for the superintendent's request, citing alarming incidents of violence on campus, including threats and altercations involving firearms. She argued that a dedicated security presence is essential for ensuring the safety of students and staff, particularly given the unique challenges posed by shared campus facilities.

The discussions underscored a significant divide in perspectives on how best to ensure safety and support within Howard County schools. As the board prepares to finalize the budget, the urgency for a multi-year contract to recruit and retain educators remains a pressing concern, with over 80% of the budget allocated to employee compensation. Stakeholders are calling for a collaborative approach to address these challenges and advocate for the needs of students and staff alike.