Student urges Howard County Public Schools to bolster emergency preparedness

Jacob Patterson, a junior, told the Howard County Public Schools Board of Education at a virtual public hearing that the district should continue improving emergency planning and response under policy 3,010.

"As a student, I think [policy 3,010] is very important because it helps keep everyone safe during emergencies," Patterson said, urging the board to keep emergency operation plans current and to prioritize staff training and drills.

Patterson said drills such as fire drills and lockdowns teach students how to remain calm and follow safety procedures. "These drills teach us how to stay calm and safe," he said, and added that clear communication with parents during emergencies reduces confusion about whether students should remain at school or go home.

In addition to planning and communication, Patterson asked the board to allocate funding for updated equipment, ongoing staff training and personnel needed to implement emergency preparedness measures. "Allocate additional resources and funding support ... including the purchase of emergency equipment, training and personnel," he said.

The hearing opened with the board completing roll call and approving the meeting agenda. Ms. Mosley moved to approve the agenda; Dr. Chen seconded. The board recorded five affirmative votes and the motion carried 5-0.

The Chair noted that there were no public speakers signed up for policy 9270, on student assault and/or battery on employees, and then adjourned the meeting.

The testimony from Patterson was the only substantive public comment at the hearing; board members did not offer public responses during the session and no formal board action on policy 3,010 was recorded at the meeting.