HoCo Executive Calvin Ball Speaks Out About School Redistricting

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Howard County Public School System Superintendent Michael Martirano's proposed school redistricting plan has drawn ire from many parents whose students would be impacted. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball has spoken out about the proposal, too.

“I am appreciative of Superintendent Michael Martirano's intent to address the pressing issue of school overcrowding, and I am confident that through respectful dialogue and a transparent, inclusive process a plan will be produced that values the importance of socioeconomic diversity while keeping communities together, to the extent possible. We need thoughtful, comprehensive redistricting that will help foster the best teaching and learning environment for our children and educators," he said in a statement.

"I recognize this is a sensitive matter that may impact families in many different ways and it’s important that all residents have a chance to lend their voices to this important conversation and speak directly to the board of education as they continue with their deliberations," he added. "As any decisions regarding redistricting are solely within the purview of the board of education, neither I nor any other elected official who is not on the board of education has an opportunity to vote on Dr. Martirano's school redistricting plan. Given its overall impact on our county, and as a father with two daughters in our public schools, please know I will continue to closely monitor the process.”

The board of education will be holding three public hearings, which will be held at the department of education (10910 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City) with satellite rooms available for overflow. Pre-registration is required and may be done by phone (410-313-7346, 1584, or 7194) or in person.

• Public Hearing, Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m.
  • Region I (Only families currently zoned for Centennial HS, Howard HS, Mt. Hebron HS, Oakland Mills HS and feeders)

• Public Hearing, Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m.
  • Region II (Only families currently zoned for at Atholton HS, Hammond HS, Long Reach HS, Wilde Lake HS and feeders)

• Public Hearing, Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m.
  • Region III (Only families currently zoned for at Glenelg HS, Marriotts Ridge HS, Reservoir HS, River Hill HS and feeders)

Testimony can also be provided by emailing redistricting@hcpss.org. More information is available online: https://www.hcpss.org/school-planning/boundary-review/public-hearings/.