WCPS Board Meeting Focuses on Homeless Student Support, Educational Investments, and Student Achievements

HAGERSTOWN, MD News (9/19/2024) – At the September 17, 2024, Washington County Public Schools Board of Education meeting, key topics included renewed support for homeless students, new investments in drones and robotics for Career and Technical Education programs, and the recognition of student achievements in both athletics and national competitions. The Board also approved plans for capital improvements and launched a district-wide attendance campaign aimed at promoting the importance of regular student participation.

At its most recent public business meeting, the Washington County Board of Education (BOE) addressed several important topics, from support for homeless students and families to investments in educational programs. Below is a summary of key highlights.

Partnership to Support Homeless Students and Families

Washington County Public Schools continues to prioritize the needs of students facing housing instability. Over the last school year, the district identified more than 900 students who were considered homeless and lacked stable housing. WCPS acknowledges the ongoing challenge of limited housing options and rising rental costs in the community, which are critical factors affecting student success.

In response, the Board approved the continuation of a partnership with Horizon Goodwill Industries, which provides Housing Navigator services to assist families in accessing housing resources, transportation, and educational support. This initiative is supported by a federal grant through the American Rescue Plan Homeless Children and Youth Funds (ARP HCY II), totaling $347,990 over two years. The grant, issued through the Maryland State Department of Education, is set to expire on December 31, 2025.

This effort aligns with WCPS’s commitment to expanding access and opportunity for all students while fostering a safe and supportive environment.

Investment in Drones and Robotics for Career and Technical Education

The BOE approved new investments in drones and robotics to enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These additions aim to provide students with hands-on learning experiences, helping them develop engineering and computational thinking skills. The technology mirrors tools currently used in various industries, including law enforcement, construction, and technology sectors.

Funding for these purchases comes from a combination of sources, including $222,219.56 in federal Perkins grant funds and $18,015.80 from the WCPS General Fund. This initiative is part of WCPS’s broader mission to ensure student success and prepare them for college and career readiness.

“YOU BELONG HERE!” Attendance Campaign

WCPS is rolling out a new campaign focused on encouraging regular school attendance. Titled “YOU BELONG HERE!”, the campaign emphasizes the importance of daily school participation as a key factor in forming connections, fostering friendships, and creating a sense of value among students. The campaign will be promoted through materials distributed to parents, families, and the broader community, as well as across the district’s schools.

This initiative supports the district’s priorities related to student success and readiness for college and careers.

Approval of Capital Improvement Plans

The Board reviewed and approved a series of capital improvements to existing schools, as well as the construction of a new elementary school. These projects, part of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, aim to make schools safer, more efficient, and better suited to the evolving needs of students and staff. CIP projects rely on both state and local funding and require extensive long-term planning.

Recognizing Student Achievements

During the meeting, the Board celebrated the achievements of WCPS students who earned state championships and national honors.

State Championship Teams:

• Clear Spring High School: Unified Track
• Williamsport High School: Unified Track and Tennis
• Smithsburg High School: Girls Track & Field

In addition, individual athletes from the tennis and track & field programs were recognized for their achievements, though some were unable to attend the meeting due to participation in fall sports or graduation.

National SkillsUSA Honors: Students from Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School were honored for their outstanding performances at the SkillsUSA National Conference. Among the recognized students were:

• EMT: Bronze Medal – Morgen Sanders and Haileigh Taylor
• Community Service Project: 4th Place – Diana Jimenez and Oakley Kendall
• Barbering: 8th Place – Triniti Carraway
• Commercial sUAS Drones: 8th Place – Bryce Abbott and Xavier Amaya Paniagua

Student Pledge Leader

The meeting concluded with a special acknowledgment of Roman Arthur, a fifth grader from Bester Elementary School, who led the meeting’s opening pledge.

The next public business meeting of the WCPS Board of Education is scheduled for October.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors