MCAAP Not Pleased with MCPS or McKnight and BOE's Leadership

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10/13/2023 09:27

Subject: MCAAP Not Pleased with MCPS or McKnight and BOE's Leadership

quote

Anonymous

I was watching the BoE Business Meeting yesterday and Christine Handy, president of MCAAP, made a damning statement during the public testimony. She couched a lot of what she said in seemingly pleasant words, but the undertones of her message to McKnight, directly, and the board writ-large is that they are visionless, leaderless and focused on the wrong things.

You can watch the testimony here:

Handy's testimony starts at 33:00, but here's a transcription of what she said:

I submitted my testimony for National Principal's month and I urge you to read it. Thank you to our principals who work diligently to positively impact the success of our students, staff and communities everyday and deserve recognition. There's a lot going on in our district right now, so today instead of reading what I previously submitted I'm compelled to emphasize the urgency of a matter of great concern: The way forward for MCPS.

Clarity is paramount in an organization with over 25,000 employees and more than 160,000 students. We need clarity in our vision, our expectations, communication and collaboration to ensure that our leaders understand how to navigate the path ahead. As we look forward, I'm asking Dr. McKnight and the Board of Education to consider four critical action steps that merit immediate consideration:

1) First, let's focus on our upcoming A&S meeting. The theme, "Planning for Progress," should be transformed into a discussion on clarity of how we move MCPS forward together. It is imperative that we engage in a two-way dialogue to ensure a crystal clear understanding of how to translate the vision of this district into action.

2) Second, we acknowledge the inspector general's ongoing investigations, we must proactively address the issues at hand. To rebuild trust and work collaboratively with associations, I propose the creation of a task force comprised of 7-8 members of each association. This task force can discuss and make recommendations on the investigative process to prioritize staff and student safety. Their input should be shared with you, so that we're already equipped with valuable recommendations when the IG investigation concludes.

3) Third, I've been informed by our leaders that morale is low. But don't take my word for it. I recommend collecting data from MCAAP to obtain genuine understanding of this. The results will provide authentic feedback. Following this, engage with our leaders in the Listen to Lead forums, that you will be having, Dr. McKnight. This process will enable you to connect with the workforce authentic voice.

4) Fourth, I just want us to reaffirm our commitment to teaching and learning, the very essence of MCPS. We need an unparalleled focus.

Thank you.

Her written testimony, which she diverged from, hits on similar themes.

SOURCE: https://go.boarddocs.com/mabe/mcpsmd/Board.nsf/files/CWHPMS61A9F3/$file/Christine%20Handy%20BOE%20Testimony%2010%2012%2023.pdf

Ms. Silvestre, Ms. Evans, members of the Board of Education, and Dr. McKnight,

I come before you today as the President of MCAAP to acknowledge and celebrate October, National Principals Month. It is a privilege to address you on behalf of the dedicated principals who lead our schools. Heroes work
here!

Being a principal is not merely a job; it is a calling, a vocation that requires a unique blend of leadership, empathy, and resilience. In these challenging times, our schools have been the glue for our school district. Our principals' resilience and unwavering leadership have been nothing short of remarkable. They are navigating turbulent waters, ensuring that our students receive the education they deserve despite the adversities surrounding us. Each day, they put their hearts and souls into the education of our youth.

Now, more than ever, we hear discussions about school culture and climate. It is vital to recognize that school culture and climate are not solely the responsibility of one person. Instead, they are collective efforts woven into
the very fabric of our school community. The combined dedication of our superintendent, executive leaders, teachers, staff, students, parents, and principals contributes to improving school culture and climate.

Our principals are at the forefront of this endeavor and need your support as they strive to cultivate a positive culture and climate in our schools. This starts with the district leadership. It involves a multi-faceted approach that cannot be singularly addressed with a survey. A survey takes the temperature; the real work requires a cultural shift. It requires respecting people’s calendars, work-life balance, psychological safety, and transparency. It means consistently and deliberately demonstrating actions that instill values such as respect, inclusivity, and empathy throughout the school district. Ongoing, collaborative conversations should occur with all our leaders in MCAAP/MCBOA, especially as it relates to developing shared values and goals. It's a collective effort where everyone has a role in creating a positive and nurturing environment. It requires a commitment from the Board of Education, superintendent, teachers, parents, principals, and all district leaders.

In conclusion, I want to recognize National Principals Month and the outstanding principals who lead MCPS. Let us continue to support and collaborate with them in our shared mission to provide an excellent education for
our students in an environment where everyone thrives.