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Sara Hamdawi sworn in as 53rd student member of Anne Arundel County Board of Education
Summary
Sara Hamdawi of Crofton High School was sworn in as the 53rd student member of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education. Clerk Scott Poyer administered the oath, and Hamdawi pledged to represent students countywide; a commission from Gov. Wes Moore formalized a one-year term beginning July 1, 2026.
Sara Hamdawi of Crofton High School was sworn in as the 53rd student member of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education in a ceremony that included board leaders, Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell and court officials.
Anika Monk, executive director of communications and community engagement for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, introduced Hamdawi and named attending board members, including Board President Gloria Dent and Vice President Don Puliam. Clerk of the Circuit Court Scott Poyer and Chief Deputy MK Fowler officiated the oath.
"Sarah, what an honor to welcome you to this board," Scott Poyer said as he administered the oath. Hamdawi repeated the pledge to support the constitutions and laws of the United States and the state of Maryland and to "diligently and faithfully" execute the office of student member.
Officials read a commission from Governor Wes Moore appointing Hamdawi to a one-year term beginning July 1, 2026; the governor's commission will remain with Hamdawi. Hamdawi also signed the district's historic test book used by past oath-takers.
In brief remarks after the oath, Hamdawi thanked family members, advisers and her campaign team and described visiting schools across the county. "Students want to be heard," she said, adding, "As your student member of the board, I promise to lead with integrity, empathy, transparency, and professionalism." She said the campaign reinforced for her that "preparation matters, and dedication to your goals matter."
The ceremony concluded with Hamdawi placing her nameplate on the board dais and officials inviting attendees to greet her in the lobby for photos. No formal board vote was recorded during the event.
Reported attendees included Board President Gloria Dent; Board Vice President Don Puliam; board members Robert Silkworth, Erica McFarland, Dana Schallheim and Dr. Joanna Tobin; Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell; former student member Hasba Hamdani; Clerk Scott Poyer; and Chief Deputy MK Fowler.
