CCPS leaders emphasize work-life balance as school year ends

The Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS) Board of Education convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting the local education system, including employee well-being and the approval of the Education Facility Master Plan (EFMP) for 2025-2034.

A significant focus of the meeting was the importance of summer reading for students. Humsley Jordan, president of the Carroll County Education Association, emphasized that even 15 minutes of reading a day can prevent the "summer slide," where students lose reading skills during the break. He urged educators to prioritize their well-being during the summer, advocating for a healthier work-life balance and discouraging the practice of spending personal funds on classroom supplies.

Cindy Porter, president of the CASE bargaining unit, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the emotional challenges educators face at the end of the school year. She called for greater community understanding of the pressures on school staff and expressed gratitude for their dedication. Both leaders stressed the need for educators to take time to recharge over the summer.

The board also addressed several action items, including the approval of 14 awarded bids for various school projects. These included relocating portable classrooms, annual inspections for safety equipment, and contracts for technology services. The discussions revealed challenges in securing competitive bids, with some projects receiving only one response due to a shrinking pool of contractors.

A key agenda item was the approval of the EFMP, which outlines the district's long-term facility needs and priorities. The plan, which must be submitted annually to the state, reflects updated enrollment projections indicating slower growth than previously anticipated. This change could impact future state funding for school projects, particularly the planned expansions at Freedom and Sykesville Elementary Schools.

Board members reassured the community that maintenance and upgrades to school facilities are ongoing and based on systematic evaluations. They encouraged public engagement and transparency regarding the district's efforts to improve school infrastructure.

As the meeting concluded, the board members reiterated their commitment to addressing the needs of both students and educators, emphasizing the importance of community support in achieving these goals. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges and collaborative efforts necessary to enhance the educational environment in Carroll County.