PGCPS board urges parents to 'Educate, Advocate, Act Together' as FY27 budget fight heads to Annapolis
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Summary
Board members used the Dec. 18 session to launch an advocacy push tied to the district's strategic plan, asking parents and community members to attend Annapolis events (Blueprint Night Feb. 9, Advocacy Day March 13) and to use the district's 2026 legislative platform when testifying.
Prince George's County Board of Education members used the Dec. 18 "Dollars & Decisions" session to brief families on how to advocate for school funding in the upcoming Maryland legislative session and to link the district's strategic planning process to that advocacy.
Board member Walker led a presentation titled "Educate, Advocate, Act Together," asking residents to learn the district's priorities, join PTAs/PTOs, submit testimony, and attend advocacy events in Annapolis. Several board members recounted their personal advocacy histories—including participation in Strong Schools Maryland and previous Blueprint lobbying—and urged constituents to ask elected officials for "full funding" for PGCPS.
Vanessa Wetherington and strategic planning staff explained how community input from budget surveys, focus groups and town halls will be incorporated into a new strategic plan. Student board member Ari reported that students in the breakout session learned where federal grants support mental health services and how school-level impacts of budget decisions will vary.
Dr. Moss said the board will publish an advocacy newsletter for the 90‑day legislative session and emphasized that parents' stories and turnout are crucial in protecting funding streams. Board members highlighted two upcoming public events: Blueprint Night (Feb. 9, Strong Schools Maryland) and Advocacy Day (March 13), and encouraged constituents to use the district's 2026 legislative platform when making requests of senators and delegates.
The presentations emphasized nonpartisan, concrete actions: submit testimony, attend town halls, ask candidates and legislators specific questions about support for full funding, and use the district's talking points. Board members and administration encouraged community participation in January and February public hearings on the proposed FY27 budget.