Board Meeting Highlights - 08/13/2025

The Board of Education for St. Mary’s County Public Schools met on August 13, 2025, to conduct regular business ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. The meeting included updates from the Superintendent and Student Member, a public hearing on a new policy regarding student debt, and a discussion of mold remediation efforts at two elementary schools.

Meeting Highlights

Superintendent and Student Member Reports
Superintendent Dr. Smith and Student Member Vanessa Lee shared updates on teacher in-service, fall sports, and preparations for the first day of school. They also highlighted student engagement strategies and shared the new student leadership theme for the year: “SMCPS LEADS – Listen, Empower, Aspire, Deliver.”

Public Hearing – Student Debt Policy (Policy JFI)
A formal public hearing was held on proposed Policy JFI, which outlines SMCPS’s framework for managing student-related debts (e.g., unpaid meal balances, lost technology). Public comment was encouraged ahead of the anticipated adoption on August 27.

Public Comment
Community members spoke on various topics, including the student debt policy, concerns about equitable application, and questions about access to financial support for families facing hardship.

Consent Agenda Approved
The Board approved personnel appointments, IT security purchases, and contracts for student services and uniform rentals.

Information Item – Mold Remediation at Evergreen and Hollywood Elementary
Staff presented a remediation plan following mold identification at two schools. HVAC systems and air quality controls are being addressed to ensure safe conditions for returning students and staff.

For more information, please refer to the official meeting agenda.
You can learn more about our Board of Education on our website.