POLICIES OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF FREDERICK COUNTY

Section 100 Governance of the School System

100.1 Responsibilities

A. Board of Education’s Responsibilities

The board is responsible for determining the mission and vision for the school system, and adopting goals to help achieve that vision. The board shall adopt policies consistent with these goals, and shall regularly review such policies and the progress towards attainment of these goals. The board shall also advocate for adequate funding for school system, and shall direct the expenditure of resources to best fulfill the goals.

The primary functions of the local board can generally be classified into three broad categories: legislative, executive, and quasi-judicial.

Legislative responsibilities include promulgating policies to govern the school system and are made pursuant to and within the scope of Maryland statute.

Executive responsibilities are administrative in nature, involving the implementation of policy or statutory responsibilities of the Board. Examples include the appointment of certificated personnel, the evaluation of the superintendent, and the selection of board officers and committee assignments.

Quasi-judicial responsibilities occur when the board considers and rules on matters of appeals from students, employees, or other individuals adversely affected by a school system decision.

The authority of the board is collective and not individual. Except where the board has delegated decision-making to one of its members, board members cannot act on behalf of the board.

B. Superintendent’s Responsibilities

The superintendent is responsible for advising the board on educational policies, managing the school system, and administering the budget, board policies and applicable education laws. As the executive officer of the board, the superintendent shall issue regulations and other directives regarding the management of the school system. The superintendent shall provide an annual analysis on the progress toward the attainment of the system goals.

C. Direction of Staff

Decisions of the board are to be conveyed directly to the superintendent. The superintendent shall direct staff. Board members may contact staff to discuss matters relating to their committee or liaison responsibilities, to obtain information about a pending board agenda item, or for information or opinion. Except for Board committee requests, a board member desiring a report, formal analysis, extensive background information, etc. from staff must present the request to the entire board for action and referral to the superintendent. The board must prioritize such requests for the superintendent.

100.2 Mission of the Board of Education of Frederick County

We set the standards for public education.

100.3 Mission of the Frederick County Public School System

Working together to educate each child and promote success.

100.4 Vision for the School System

Education is the foundation of our community. The Frederick County Public Schools System educates its students to become caring, respectful, and responsible citizens and family members. Students look forward to school each day. They take full advantage of the rigorous academic curricula and strive to develop their talents. They utilize the power of technology to explore a world of new ideas and information. They acquire the knowledge and skills to achieve and the confidence to succeed, and are rewarded with a wide choice of offers from higher education and employers.

Outstanding applicants compete to join our system. Employees enjoy the respect of students and the community, opportunities for professional growth, and recognition for their contributions to our system. They value each student and create a learning climate where students can reach for their dreams

Parents, public officials, businesses and citizens actively support our commitment to challenge all students to achieve their potential. The Board of Education and school system staff embrace the community's contributions and are responsible stewards of its resources.

Parents choose to send their children to our schools.

Businesses and families move to Frederick County because of our schools. Other school systems emulate us.

100.5 Goals for the School System

Goal 1. All students will demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to meet graduation standards and achieve their potential.

Goal 2. All schools will be safe and inviting, with a climate that fosters learning and character development.

Goal 3. All employees will be highly qualified, motivated and effective.

Goal 4. All sectors of the community will be engaged in the education of our children.

Goal 5. FCPS will advocate for adequate resources to achieve these goals and manage these resources in a publicly accountable and cost-effective manner.

Adopted May 28, 2003