Parents and advocates urge St. Mary's schools to adopt Inclusive Schools resolution

Five members of the public told the St. Mary's County Board of Education on May 20 that the district should formally adopt an Inclusive Schools resolution to protect and support LGBTQ+ students.

Angela Shambida, a parent, said the issue affects “a lot more people, teachers and students in this school district than a lot of people might think” and urged the board to weigh harm reduction: “If you passed something like this, who would it harm? And if you didn't, who does it harm?”

Isabelle (who asked to be referred to as Dante) described leaving an unsupportive home state and said she lacked information about being trans as a teen; she told the board, “I ask that you consider the inclusive school act because these children need support.” Katie Boyd, chair of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Southern Maryland, framed support as a religious and dignity-based argument.

Kelly Kek, who identified herself as a Mechanicsville resident, cited a 2026 Gallup poll she said found 23% of adults under 30 identify as LGBTQ+ and argued an affirming environment is necessary to recruit and retain teachers and staff. Christina Stone, a former SMCPS student, said petition signatures (more than 650 from an earlier filing, the public said) show community interest.

The board did not take action on the resolution at the May 20 meeting; public comment sessions are recorded as comments for the record and not deliberative discussion. Several speakers asked the board to treat the measure as a harm-reduction step that would create clearer supports and reduce risk for vulnerable students.

The board's packet for the meeting did not include a draft of a formal Inclusive Schools ordinance or explicit next steps; speakers said they intend to continue outreach to the board and community.