November 11, 2024
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD – Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) hosted its second annual Legislative Day on November 8 at Ellen Ochoa Middle School. This event provided district leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders an opportunity to review the accomplishments of the past year and present the district’s 2025 Legislative Platform, which advocates for policies to benefit students, educators, and families across the county.
“Today is about building partnerships with our legislators to strengthen our schools,” said Superintendent Millard House II, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with legislators to address the district's unique challenges. “Their support is critical to our success, especially when it comes to funding and legislation that align with both their goals and ours.”
Board Chair Lolita E. Walker echoed this sentiment, underscoring the united front between the Board and district administration in advocating for the resources PGCPS students deserve.
“The Board looks forward to partnering with our legislators to Educate, Advocate, and Act TOGETHER for the necessary funding and continued benefit of our Prince George’s County scholars,” Walker said.
Among the district’s priorities are implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, school safety, construction and facility upgrades, and adjusted immunization timelines for new international students.
“The Blueprint offers transformative potential, but its success requires sustained funding. Every district, including ours, is navigating these challenges to meet ambitious goals,” noted House.
2025 Legislative Platform Priorities:
Blueprint for Maryland’s Future: PGCPS seeks enhanced funding flexibility to implement the Blueprint’s ambitious goals for education reform, while ensuring that all students have access to resources needed for success.
School Safety and Security: Advocating for expanded funding to upgrade security infrastructure and technology, PGCPS is committed to providing safe learning environments for every student.
Construction and Facilities Improvements: With more than half of PGCPS schools aged 40 years or more, securing funds for renovations and new construction remains a top priority to support modern learning environments.
Immunization Timeline Adjustments for Newcomer Students: Supporting policies that extend immunization deadlines for international students will allow them to begin classes promptly with uninterrupted instruction.
Additional areas of focus include maintaining local Board authority over district policies, addressing recruitment and retention needs, and improving special education resources.
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