Board Approves August as Be Smart Week to Promote Safe Storage Awareness

The Board of Education of Howard County convened on August 21, 2025, to address several key issues, including a resolution recognizing August as "Be Smart Week" and updates on various educational initiatives.

The meeting began with a motion to approve the resolution aimed at elevating the importance of safe storage of firearms. Board member Miss Chamblee expressed her support for the resolution, despite acknowledging procedural concerns regarding the approval process. She emphasized the need to address these procedural issues without delaying important discussions. A second was offered for the motion, and a proposal was made to include veterans in the resolution due to the significant impact of firearm-related suicides among this group.

However, board member Miss Watts raised concerns about the lack of established procedures for proclamations and resolutions, suggesting that the board should first define these processes before proceeding. She proposed postponing the vote until an ad hoc committee could be formed to establish clearer guidelines. This motion to postpone was not seconded, leading to its failure.

The board then returned to the original motion. After some discussion, the resolution was put to a vote. It passed with a majority of 5 in favor and 1 against, with one member abstaining.

Following the resolution, board member Miss McCoy shared her positive experiences from the recent new educators' orientation, highlighting the engagement of students who typically do not voice their thoughts. She noted the importance of capturing these student perspectives for future reference, emphasizing that student voices are central to the board's mission.

Miss Ricks also contributed to the discussion, thanking those involved in various summer initiatives, including tours of the ARL project and the new educator orientation. She acknowledged the community's engagement in redistricting information sessions and expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the board and staff.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of student engagement and the need for continued procedural improvements within the board. The establishment of the ad hoc committee to refine the process for future proclamations and resolutions was noted as a necessary next step.