The recent Board of Education meeting for Queen Anne's County Public Schools, held on October 1, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in character education and community engagement initiatives within the school district. The meeting showcased the ongoing success of the "Character Counts" program, which has now reached all 14 schools in the county, including a robust presence in middle and high schools.
The Character Counts coordinator reported that for the third consecutive year, all K-5 classrooms have been equipped with a character coach, and efforts are underway to integrate character education into high school activities through partnerships with student organizations. Notably, 95% of teachers surveyed indicated a positive impact from the character lessons, with 73% of students in grades three to five also reporting similar sentiments. These statistics underscore the program's effectiveness in fostering a positive school environment.
In addition to character education, the meeting emphasized the importance of community outreach. The coordinator revamped the district's social media presence, achieving a remarkable reach of 69,400 accounts in just one month. This initiative aims to celebrate and recognize the achievements of staff and students, fostering a culture of positivity within the schools.
Upcoming events were also a focal point of the meeting. The first Family Fun Fair is scheduled for October 7 at Dominic's Farm, featuring activities such as a petting zoo and free lunches for the first 150 attendees. This event aims to strengthen community ties and promote family involvement in school activities.
Board members shared their experiences attending various school events, including homecoming celebrations and cultural recognition days, reflecting a vibrant school spirit and community engagement. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration between the board and the character education program, inviting new ideas and initiatives to further enhance the positive impact on students and the community.
Overall, the discussions during the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to character education and community involvement, setting a positive tone for the upcoming school year and reinforcing the importance of fostering a supportive educational environment.