As Maryland families start the new school year, Convention of States Action Maryland is happy to share a variety of education resources.
Let's start with Maryland State Department of Education Parent, Families and Communities page. MSDE offers links to public school calendars, health policy, recommended reading and academic testing information.
Looking for options: Maryland Federation for Children. MFC "seeks to empower families, especially lower-income families, with the freedom to choose the best K-12 education for their children." Sadly, Maryland's BOOST program is among the most limited in the country. Hopefully, armed with information, you can make the best decision for your family.
What is school choice? According to American Federation for Children's School Choice 101 guide, "school choice is about a fundamental right for parents to have access to the educational environment that serves their children best."
Next, check out Courage is a Habit who offers resources to parents in navigating the myriad of policies within Maryland's public school system. Their website homepage says:
Fear is a habit. Each time you want to speak up and you do not, it becomes a little easier next time to stay silent.The great news is that courage is also a habit. Each time you speak up, even when you're afraid, it becomes a little easier next time to not stay silent.
Remember that the next time to you go to a parent-teacher or local school board meeting. Here are just a few resources from Courage is a Habit:
- What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?
- How to Opt Out of SEL
- 10 Questions Parents Should Ask at Their Next Parent-Teacher Conference
- 3 Ways to Handle Hate
Finally, check out Concerned Parents of Carroll County, by far the most active and engaged group of parents in the state. Their mission is "...to preserve and protect Carroll County Public Schools – the best education system in the state of Maryland." There is sure to be a group just like this in your school district...simply, search for it on the internet or social media and most importantly, talk to other parents.
Your voice matters.
and please,
TAKE THE MARYLAND SCHOOLS SURVEY NOW
Convention of States Action Maryland stands with all Marylanders who expect more from their government, especially when it comes to educating our children. Maryland children and their families deserve the best education possible - period. Our kids rely on us to be their greatest advocates. They're depending on us to pave the groundwork for their future.
Convention of States Action Maryland believes that it's up to engaged citizens to ensure we get the best out of our government and its institutions. We're here to help and we hope you will let the Maryland Department of Education know exactly where you stand on educating our youth.
Join the 2+ million petition signers and the COS Action Maryland team of volunteers. We are an engaged an army of grassroots activists demanding accountability from government, Congressional term limits, a balanced federal budget and limits to federal overreach.
