The Washington County Board of Education held a public business meeting on May 20, 2025, addressing several pressing issues, including cell phone use in schools and funding concerns related to state mandates.

One of the key topics discussed was the improvement in cell phone usage policies in secondary schools. A representative noted that, following stronger enforcement measures directed by Dr. Sovine, the issue has seen significant progress. While challenges remain, the representative expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts to uphold the board's policy on cell phone use.

The meeting also featured a heated discussion regarding funding for Washington County Public Schools (WCPS). A speaker criticized the teachers' union for supporting Governor Wes Moore, who recently cut $9 million in funding for the county. The speaker argued that the union's support for the governor contradicts their calls for increased funding for schools. They emphasized that the financial challenges faced by WCPS stem from state-level decisions, particularly the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, which they claimed could jeopardize local school budgets.

Another attendee, Susan Day, raised concerns about the relevance of political discussions during the meeting. She suggested that comments should focus strictly on topics pertinent to the board's agenda and proposed that individuals who stray from this guideline should submit their remarks in writing.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued vigilance in addressing funding issues and adherence to school policies, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by educators and administrators in Washington County. The discussions underscored the complex relationship between local education funding and state-level political decisions, setting the stage for future debates as the community approaches upcoming elections.