Resolution 2011-01: Magnet Program, New HHS

Councilman Randy Craig calling for a at . The resolution was unanimously adopted by the six-member City Council.

The following is the text of that resolution:

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RESOLUTION 2011 - 01

A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL PURSUANT TO CITY CHARTER SECTION 34 SUPPORTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A MAGNET SCHOOL AT HAVRE DE GRACE HIGH SCHOOL AND REQUESTING FACILITY UPGRADES BE MADE.

WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council have the responsibility to protect the health, safety, welfare, and quality of life for its residents, including advocating for the education of the community’s children by actively supporting the preservation and improvement of the public schools in Havre de Grace; and

WHEREAS, the residents and businesses of Havre de Grace distinctly benefit from a high performing High School within its jurisdiction; and

WHEREAS, in addition to the educational priorities, Harford County Public School facilities jointly serve as importance civic centers which enhance the quality of life for the distinct communities they serve and the tax payers which support them; and

WHEREAS, over the last few years Harford County Public Schools and Harford County Government have completed several substantial renovations and replacements of other County public high schools, particularly in the County growth targeted areas, including those in other Harford County municipalities; and

WHEREAS, Havre de Grace High School, which was established in 1810, is one of the oldest public schools in Harford County, is located within Harford County’s growth targeted area, and is in need of facility renovations to maintain equal education opportunities; and

WHEREAS, Harford County Public Schools has converted portions of many formerly community only High Schools to magnet schools with enhanced, innovative educational programs; and

WHEREAS, through these enhanced curriculum programs, Harford County Public Schools has fostered a system of public school choice; and

WHEREAS, this system of public school choice, when not provided in a balanced measure throughout the County, creates inequity among Harford County communities, including its independent municipalities; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council intends to work collaboratively with the Harford County Public School system and other local and State government entities for the establishment of a magnet school program at Havre de Grace High School and accelerating necessary facility upgrades at Havre de Grace High School; and

WHEREAS, an active community-based group of interested citizens, businesses, alumni, teachers, students, and parents formed as a recognized committee of the Mayor and City Council is necessary to coordinate advocacy efforts;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, DETERMINED, AND DECIDED by the Mayor and City Council of Havre de Grace that:

1) Harford County Government, Harford County Board of Education, and Harford County Public Schools are urged to expedite facility upgrades and promptly establish a magnet school program at Havre de Grace High School; and

2) The City shall support the creation and appointment of members to a temporary volunteer committee with the membership representing the City of Havre de Grace, interested citizens, businesses, alumni, teachers, students, and parents to promote the establishment of a magnet program and advocate for facility improvements at Havre de Grace High School; and

3) The City appeals to the Harford County Board of Education, and other State and County governing bodies and our representatives thereon to support these objectives when considering current and future policy directives and making budget recommendations, or immediate fiscal decisions.

4) The Mayor is authorized to act on behalf of the City in advocacy efforts as necessary to support the objectives of this resolution.

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