At the National Conference on Education, keynote speaker Todd Rose offered a compelling discussion on the fallacy behind measuring people against the “average person.”

Earning a bachelor’s degree in International Studies, Heather Clabaugh worked in marketing for the Frederick Keys before earning an MBA and managing construction budgets in the private sector. Since joining FCPS, her skill and work ethic led to her current role as Budget Officer.

Every year the number of college students selecting education as a major decreases. Many states are now facing critical teacher shortages. Why?

So many aspects of our current educational system are still rooted in 20th century industrial models. Is it time to consider other options for snow days?

We spend about $620 billion every year on education by federal and state governments. But accountability for the hundreds of millions that go to charter schools is minimal in most states. This has led to many scandals, frequent poor performance for students, and few changes in laws or regulations. Why?

Recent events at a girls’ basketball game have sparked many reactions from community members. For me, I stand in harmony with what our Board of Education has clearly articulated: Our school system cannot tolerate disrespectful labels related to a person’s race, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socioeconomic status, familial status, physical or mental ability, or disability.

For many years, advocates for “school choice” have argued that competition will improve public schools and that students living in poverty will have opportunities to attend better schools. How are these policies working across our country?

SEIAs do so much for our students. Teachers, students, and parents recognize the impact they have on student achievement.

Proponents of voucher programs frequently cite the opportunity for students living in poverty to go to a private school as the motivation for legislation. I recently learned the tax incentive attached to these programs is also extremely lucrative. Why aren’t we talking about that motivation?

As 2017 ended and we welcome the 2018 New Year, it is time to reflect on our accomplishments and areas we still need to improve; then, we resolve to do better in the year ahead.