[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 13 (Thursday, January 20, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S381]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                MARYLAND SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH

 Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, devotion, commitment, 
resilience--these are just a few of the words that describe the 
professionals who comprise Maryland's 24 local boards of education.
  The dedicated public servants who lead the school systems in Maryland 
counties and Baltimore City act with deep commitment to their 
communities and their time-intensive school board duties. Maryland 
school board members make critical budget and planning decisions, adopt 
policies to create supportive learning environments for all students, 
engage with parents, students, school staff, and other community 
stakeholders, work closely with superintendents, respond to crises, and 
undergo ongoing training to carry out effective governance, continue to 
grow as leaders, and stay up-to-date on the latest best practices.
  As devoted professionals who serve students, school systems, and 
their communities at large, Maryland school board members face an array 
of daunting challenges every day, challenges made significantly more 
difficult and complex during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet Maryland's 24 
school boards have consistently risen to these challenges, working to 
ensure excellence in public education throughout the State.
  School board members come from all backgrounds and professions. They 
may not agree on every issue, but they unite and volunteer to serve 
under the strong conviction that Maryland students come first.
  Because of the extraordinary, continuing commitment of those who 
serve on our school boards to helping Maryland students grow, thrive, 
and excel each day--and with my ongoing commitment to Maryland public 
education in mind--I am proud to recognize January as Maryland School 
Board Recognition Month.

                          ____________________