St. Mary's County
Public Schools
What is Public Comment?
Post
![Stock Image of a Microphone at the Podium]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759417735/smcpsorg/zjglhcpvsxwpdtvfyomn/Stock-Microphone-Podium.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759417735/smcpsorg/zjglhcpvsxwpdtvfyomn/Stock-Microphone-Podium.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1759417735/smcpsorg/zjglhcpvsxwpdtvfyomn/Stock-Microphone-Podium.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1759417735/smcpsorg/zjglhcpvsxwpdtvfyomn/Stock-Microphone-Podium.png","width":1000}])
- Redistricting
What is Public Comment?
SMCPS
Public comment is one of the most important ways for our community to share feedback, raise concerns, and help guide decision-making in both our schools and county government. It provides residents with a structured opportunity to have their voices heard by leaders who make policy and budgetary decisions that affect every student, family, and community member. Let's learn more.
Public Comment at the Board of Education
The St. Mary’s County Board of Education welcomes public input on policies and issues affecting our schools. More details can be found on our website, but a summary is provided below.
Purpose:
Public comment is time set aside for listening and considering community input. Board members do not respond during this time.
Limits:
Comments should focus on policies and issues—not individual staff or students. Concerns about individuals must be handled directly with the Superintendent’s Office.
Fair Process:
Because the Board also serves as an appeals body for student and employee cases, members cannot receive or discuss information about individual appeals outside of formal hearings.
How it Works:
- Sign in before the meeting begins.
- Each speaker has 3 minutes.
- Time cannot be given to another person.
Making Your Voice Heard
Public comment is not a debate—it is an opportunity to speak directly into the record and ensure decision-makers understand your perspective. To be most effective:
- Arrive early and sign in if you plan to speak.
- Prepare comments in advance; bring a written copy to submit.
- Share your personal experience and perspective—it carries weight.
- Keep remarks respectful, clear, and focused on the issue.
Why This Matters
Whether through the Board of Education or our county commissioners, public comment is a vital way for you to shape the policies, boundaries, and investments that affect St. Mary’s County students and families. Every voice matters.
Contact Information
Address: Board of Education, 23160 Moakley Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Email: boe@smcps.org
Phone: (301) 475-5511 x32177
- BOE
- Redistricting