It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Bill Phalen's passing.
A longtime member of the Calvert County Board of Education, Bill initially served on the board from 1993 to 2010, and subsequently served another two terms when reelected in 2014. His twenty-three years of service earned him the recognition as the longest serving member on his board.
In addition to Bill’s countless contributions to his local board, he was deeply involved in the work of MABE. He served on many committees during his tenure including Budget, Awards, Resolutions, School Funding Adequacy and Legislative. He also chaired the Nominating Committee, Ad Hoc Bylaws Committee, and the Legal Services Association.
Throughout his tenure on the Calvert County Board of Education, Bill strongly believed in professional development for board members, and was a welcome and familiar face at MABE workshops and conferences.
Bill's school board service also included MABE leadership, and he was elected as the Association’s president for the 2006-2007 term. In 2009, he was the recipient of the Distinguished School Board Service Award (formerly known as the Charles W. Willis Award for distinguished board service).
"Bill's many years of service to education in Maryland have left an important legacy in his county and across the state. He was a pleasure to work with not only because of his experience and knowledge but also because of his warmth, humor, and dedication to students. Bill will be deeply missed by his colleagues at MABE,” said Martha James-Hassan, MABE President.
