Dear Friends,

I wanted to share two important education updates. First, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is requesting public comment about how to spend America Rescue Plan (ARP) funding as school systems across the state are working to implement pandemic recovery initiatives.

Second, the Prince George’s County School System (PGCPS) has important updates regarding The Boundary Initiative, with ways for families and residents to continue to participate. I hope you will take the opportunity to let your voice be heard.

As always, please do reach out to me with any questions or concerns. 

Sincerely, 
Geraldine 
Geraldine Valentino-Smith
Delegate, Maryland House of Delegates, District 23A
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Maryland State Department of Education
Post COVID Education Plans
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) seeks public input for its plan for directing American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) Fund (marylandpublicschools.org).

Please complete the MSDE survey here. The survey will be opened through Friday, July 9. The final MSDE plan will address how the state will use the funds to:

  • Accelerate student re-engagement with a return to in-person instruction for students during the 2021-22 school year, while also providing the necessary supports, especially in the areas of technology/broadband; and
 
  • Support mental and social-emotional health and social-emotional learning (SEL); and
 
  • Address the impact of disrupted instruction using evidence-based strategies.
PGCPS Boundary Initiative Update
  • Prince George’s County Schools (PGCPS) released an interim report for The Boundary Initiative which presents findings from the first phase of its data analysis and community engagement regarding new PGCPS school boundaries, including three draft plans and maps depicting potential future boundaries.

  • The release of the report marks the beginning of another critical phase of community engagement.


  • Your input during the summer months will inform another round of community engagement activities taking place in the fall of 2021.

  • The Boundary Initiative will conclude by February 2022 with recommended boundary changes offered to the Prince George’s County Board of Education for their approval.

  • Potential boundary changes will be phased in starting with the 2022-23 school year.
By Authority of Friends For Geraldine Valentino-Smith, Elizabeth Ryan, Treasurer