School Board Convention Coming Up

Early registration to serve as a Delegate to the School Board Nominating Convention closes on March 15th. The costs is $8 per person, and you must be representing a local civic organization, i.e. Church Group, PTA, Social Organization, etc. Any non-profit organization that is not affiliated with a political party may choose to participate. The registration form is available here and the Hearing Schedule is here.

With a seat open in District 31 this year, we are fortunate enough to have the first hearing being held at Chesapeake High School. Current District 31 Board Member and Board President Ned Carey has announced that he will seek appointment to a full five-year term to the Board.

The Convention Process is an interesting one to say the least. I have seen both sides of the process; as a candidate in 2003, and as a delegate in 2004. While many people publicly call for an elected school board, it is frustrating to note that very few people seriously participate in the Convention Process; roughly 200 concerned citizens countywide. Few of them stay to participate in the entire hearing, signing in to acknowledge their attendance, and then leaving before the hearing actually begins.

The process is not perfect, but it is the best that we have. I encourage you to participate.