Hollywood, MD — Cathy Allen of Hollywood is a candidate for a fifth term as an At-Large member of the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. Allen believes her tenure brings needed continuity to a school system that has seen central office turnover in recent years.
“I think that continuity is really vital for us to have,” Allen said in a recent video interview with TheBayNetcom. Board member Allen said the continuity, she and Mary Washington (an unopposed candidate for re-election) can bring, coupled with the fresh look provided by new member would give good balance.
Allen said she sees both sides of the argument pertaining to term limits. But at the end of the day, she feels it’s up to the voters to decide whether to re-elect an incumbent or not. Further, she supports the position being elected, and says making use of experience on the various issues, along with contact with the electorate in making her decisions will be highly beneficial.
The St. Mary’s County Public Schools(SMCPC) has gone from having a $6 million deficit several years ago to a $5 million surplus this year. Allen said the deficit was caused by changes in the way (SMCPC) handled health care costs, along with increasing fuel costs. She stated she cautioned about the fuel cost budgeting.
Of the fiscal turnaround, Allen said, “We really have put many more safeguards in place.”
Allen feels the state-mandated PARCC testing is too time consuming for the students, but said the state is committed to continuing the testing for the time being. In her opinion, she doesn’t’ believe the testing is too rigorous.
Allen likes the new high school “One Lunch” program. which she said allows students to have more interaction with teachers and participate in clubs. She noted that the lack of after-school bus transportation previously prohibited some students from getting involved in clubs and other after-school activities.
Allen is being challenged by retired school teacher Chris Krush in the November 8 General Election.
Contact Dick Myers at dick.myers@thebaynet,.com
The Complete Interview:
