Residents urge Saint Mary's County commissioners to fully fund public school budget

During the St. Mary's County Budget Public Hearing held on April 22, 2025, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding funding for local schools, emphasizing the critical need for adequate financial support to maintain educational programs and services.

Claudette Jordan, a resident and parent, highlighted the importance of funding for Green Holly Elementary School, stressing that without it, many children would miss out on essential services. She urged the county commissioners to prioritize educational funding alongside support for emergency services, noting that the future of students depends on the resources available to them today.

Mia Bowers, who serves as the executive director of the Community Mediation Center and is also a mother, expressed frustration over the proposed flat funding for the St. Mary's County Public Schools. She pointed out that the budget request of $249 million represents only a modest increase and is necessary to ensure fair compensation for educators and support staff. Bowers warned that flat funding could lead to cuts in vital programs and services, jeopardizing the quality of education for students.

Janice Walthour echoed these sentiments, urging the commissioners to fully fund the school budget to alleviate the anxiety surrounding potential cuts to educational services. She emphasized the importance of federal funding for local schools and the need for stability in the face of national uncertainties.

Joan Sullivan Cowan also called for an increase in the public school budget, linking the recent income tax increase to potential funding for education. She argued that the additional revenue should be directed towards enhancing the school system, ensuring that local students receive the support they need.

The discussions at the hearing reflect a community deeply invested in the future of its children and the quality of education provided in St. Mary's County. As the commissioners consider the budget, the voices of residents underscore the pressing need for a commitment to funding that prioritizes educational excellence and supports the well-being of students and families.