Public commenters propose 'Acorns Hope' reading program; teachers plan March 19 'walk‑in' protest

Two public commenters addressed the board during the March 12 public comment period with distinct proposals.

Eve Goldstein described childhood experiences with abuse and proposed a volunteer program she called “Acorns Hope,” offering to read her children’s book Charles the Amazing Acorn in elementary schools. Goldstein said the program would pair a short reading by a volunteer with classroom lessons on life skills and provide confidential referral pathways to student services for children who need follow up. She said she would leave a copy of the book for each board member and provided contact information for follow up.

Sarah Penrod, identified as president of the Education Association of Saint Mary's County and speaking as a 15‑year educator, announced that local educators, parents and allies are being asked to take part in a March 19 “walk‑in” to protest actions she described as dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. Penrod said the walk‑in will take place before the duty day, will not disrupt instruction, and that participants will wear red for education; she urged staff members who can safely join to wear red in solidarity and said school buildings would remain open and staffed.

Penrod framed the planned action as a defense of public education, civil rights enforcement in schools, and resources for students with disabilities. She said the union’s action will be peaceful and that participating staff will return to classrooms for the instructional day.

Neither comment resulted in board action at the meeting; both were entered into the public record.