HCEA votes on new contract as budget advocacy heats up in Howard County

In a recent meeting of the Howard County Board of Education, discussions centered around the ongoing negotiations between the Howard County Education Association (HCEA) and the school district, highlighting the importance of supporting education professionals. The atmosphere was charged with gratitude as representatives acknowledged the hard work of the negotiating team, which included members from various local schools and HCEA staff.

The meeting revealed that a tentative agreement (TA) had been reached after five months of negotiations, with a voting window for HCEA members now open until April 23. This extended period was deemed necessary to allow members ample time to review the agreement, especially following a late spring break. However, concerns were raised about the challenges of recruiting and retaining support personnel, emphasizing the need for compensation that reflects their contributions amidst rising living costs in Howard County.

A call to action was made for board members to engage directly with education support professionals (ESPs) to better understand their struggles, as many juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet. The speaker underscored the critical role ESPs play in the functioning of schools, urging the board to advocate for a fully funded school budget.

Looking ahead, the county executive's budget release was anticipated, with a strong push for community support at the upcoming county council budget hearing on April 23. The speaker expressed hope for a visible turnout from educators and supporters, emphasizing the need to secure every possible funding opportunity for the school system.

In addition to budget discussions, the meeting included a presentation from Dr. Jeffries and Dr. Savage, with HCEA providing feedback from their special education committee. This collaboration aims to enhance the educational experience for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sentiment of anticipation for the remainder of the school year, with a reminder for all involved to recharge during the spring break. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to advocating for the needs of educators and students alike, setting the stage for continued engagement in the coming weeks.