Greetings Arts and Education Advocates,
Did you know? For the first time ever, Baltimore City residents will have the opportunity to elect two School Board of Commissioner members in the 2022 election?
On May 31st, community members were invited to join Arts Every Day Parent Fellows Kadija Hart and Ysem Brown, and the Baltimore Arts Education Initiative for an Ice Cream Social for the Board of School Commissioner candidates. Sponsored by Arts Every Day and hosted by Mount Royal Elementary Middle School, this family-friendly event offered community members the opportunity to meet eight candidates running for the Baltimore City School Board of Commissioners in the 2022 election.
Commissioner Election Process
Baltimore City is currently the only jurisdiction in Maryland whose entire School Board of Commissioners is appointed/unelected. In 2022, the Board will expand from 10 to 12 seats, with the two additional seats being elected rather than appointed. This means Baltimore City residents will have the opportunity to vote for two candidates in the July 19, 2022 Primary Election. The top four candidates from the Primary Election will move on to the General Election on November 8, 2022.
Why the Baltimore City Public School Board Is Important
State law provides that the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, with the advice of the CEO, determines the district’s educational, management, maintenance, and operational policies. The Board votes on many big decisions that impact our students, schools and communities. From setting district priorities and reviewing curriculum to approving the annual budget, the School Board of Commissioners are an important governing body in Baltimore City.
For the first time in the history of the Baltimore City Public School District, residents will be able to decide who should occupy this important leadership role. As parents, educators, arts advocates, students, tax payers, and community members, it is crucial that we take time to get to know each candidate to inform how we vote. This event provides a great opportunity to share the importance of the arts with candidates. In the coming months, Arts Every Day will be collaborating with our incredible partners to share candidate questionnaires and events to help us all get to know the candidates.
For more information on 2022 elections, visit: https://elections.maryland.gov/elections/2022/index.html
