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Charles County Schools
With James E. Richmond, superintendent
Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2001; 11 a.m. EDT
James E. Richmond is superintendent of Charles County Public Schools. He has been hailed for his achievements in minority progress. (Read the article.)
Bracing for an anticipated shortage in principals in the coming years, school officials recently held a workshop for teachers they hope to train for administrative roles. (Read the article.)
The transcript follows.
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washingtonpost.com:
Thanks for joining us today, Superintendent Richmond. To start, can you tell us how the first couple of days of school have gone, and what you are looking ahead to this year?
James E. Richmond: The first couple of days have gone very smoothly. We have nearly 24,000 students in 31 schools. We have a newly renovated elementary school -- J.P. Ryon -- which reopned this year and Henry E. Lackey High School renovations are complete. Our staff visited the school and the result was that it appeared school had never closed. Teachers were giving direction and learning has already started. We are excited about the new school year.
We are looking ahead to working with our high schools to improve our advanced placement classes and working with our local and state officials to build a new high school.
Waldorf, MD:
Will Charles County be following Montgomery County's example and change the mascot for LaPlata High School and any others in the county that are offensive to Native Americans?
James E. Richmond: The mascot at La Plata High School is a Warrior, which is reflective of the middle ages (a knight in armour). It is in no way derogatory to Native Americans. None of our high schools have mascots that are offensive to any particular population. We will also look at mascots for all elementary and middle schools, and change the names if any have mascots that could be offensive.
La Plata, Md.:
How many teachers and principals did you have to hire this year? Did you fill all the openings?
James E. Richmond: We had to hire two principals. Both were promoted from within the school system. We have hired nearly 240 new teachers this year. We still have six positions open. Those positions are being filled with long-term substitutes until permanent replacements can be found.
Md:
It seems like schools push kids toward college even if some would be better in vocational training. What options do you offer for students who want to enter the trades?
James E. Richmond: We have a career readiness plan that focuses on both college-bound students and students who will go directly into the workforce. Our Career and Technology Center offers numerous classes for students to learn a trade. Our CISCO program offers high technology programs that allow for students to enter into high paying jobs directly from high school. We are working to develop a new high school with a career and trade focus intergrated into the programs. This high school will open in 2005.
Waldorf Md:
Thank you for correcting me on the issue of the LaPlata Mascot. My apologies.
James E. Richmond: Not necessary. Many people who have not seen the logo confuse this.
Waldorf, Maryland:
I am a career federal employee with 21 years of service as a financial analyst. I always dreamed of becoming a teacher but was unable to attend college. Are there opportunities in Charles County that would allow me to work within the school system using my current skills while continuing my education to earn a degree in education?
James E. Richmond: We have many different positions at different levels. Make an appointment with our Human Relations Division, 301-934-7230, to explore the possibilities. We are always looking for people interested in pursuing a teaching career.
La Plata:
So, how'd the county do on the SAT?
James E. Richmond: Glad you asked! This year, our average score rose to 1039, up eight points from last year and 50 points from two years ago. We attribute this to a standard SAT preparation program we have placed in all high schools for all students who want to take advantage of this.
washingtonpost.com:
A Post article today reports that students benefit from later start times. Are Charles County schools considering starting the day later?
James E. Richmond: No, we are not presently considering this.
Waldorf, Maryland:
How close is Charles County to requiring students (elementary/middle) wear uniforms? I think that is the one of the best decisions Charles County could make.
James E. Richmond: We have two schools that have instituted a voluntary uniform policy. We hope others will follow. We applaud those schools for their leadership in this effort. The policy is voluntary, and it is left to the individual school communities and principals to make this decision. If you are interested in uniforms, talk to your child's principal.
Hughesville:
Hello. What type of diversity classes do you offer to teach tolerance?
James E. Richmond: All staff is required to take sensitivity training. This is a class that focuses on diversity and tolerance. We have been nationally recognized as a school system for our efforts in multi-cultural education. Students are also taught tolerance through our personal responsibility curriculum.
Nanjemoy, Md.:
Will you ever condider giving schools off or Columbus Day?
James E. Richmond: There are many federal holidays that we abide by, but we have a minimum number of days our students must attend school. Each year we consider all the holidays, but Columbus Day was not selected by the committee.
MD:
Although we only live 15 minutes from Thomas Stone H.S., my child's bus trip is almost an hour, taking her 15 miles in the opposite direction of the school after she is picked up. Some bus routes although obviously closer to the school are only 10 minutes. Is anyone aware of this and can anything be done about the long rides.
James E. Richmond: There are many factors that determine the length of a school bus route. We attempt to fill all seats on buses in order to make the best use of our buses.Those communities near the schools with the largest number of students, have the fastest routes. When we must make a large number of stops to fill a bus, especially in more rural areas, it takes longer. Traffic also plays a part in the length of the ride. If you have a particular concern, call the transportation department, 301-934-7262.
Somewhere, USA:
Mr. Richmond, I commend you for your dedication to education in Charles County. I am a life resident in the County and have seen your rise through the ranks. I applaud your efforts!
James E. Richmond: Thank you.
Md:
I recently saw an announcement asking for nominations for naming the new school. Has a name been selected?
James E. Richmond: No name has been selected. A committee is being formed, and will begin meeting in September. We have received approximately 20 outstanding suggestions from the community.
Waldorf, MD:
Greetings Mr.Richmond! My child attends a Charles Co. Middle School. I've been pleased with her teachers and administrators thus far. Last year, if I knew my child was going to be absent due to illness or for other reasons, I would call the school that morning. I was told I didn't have to call. Does Charles Co. have a system in place that notifies parents if their child is absent?
James E. Richmond: We have an electronic call-back system. You should receive an automated call that evening that identifies your school and informs you that your child was absent for a full or half day. If you are not receiving this notification, please contact your school. All middle and high schools have this equipment. You do not need to call your school to report the absence; however, don't forget to send in a note within three days.
La Plata, Md:
How many uncertified teachers were hired? I know of several persons whom are have passed the Praxis and are trying to obtain a teaching position in Charles County but can't seem to get an interview.
James E. Richmond: We have hired some qualified applicants who are not certificated. A final count can only be determined after the Maryland State Department of Education goes through all documentation.
We still have six open positions. Have anyone who is interested call the Director of Human Resources (Mr. Keith Hettel) directly to go over their qualifications. Mr. Hettel can be reached at 301-934-7230.
Waldorf, Md.:
What do you believe is (are) the primary function(s) of the elected school board?
James E. Richmond: The primary function of the school board is to set policy for Charles County Public Schools.
Waldorf:
What benefits do you offer for new teachers -- loan help, relocation, mortgage aid, etc.?
James E. Richmond: We offer a variety of benefits including partial relocation costs, signing bonuses, overnight accommodations during interviews, and a strong mentoring program to help new teachers adjust. We also work closely with the local real estate companies to help new teachers find housing. We also provide information about agencies and companies that offer mortgage help.
washingtonpost.com:
That was our last question today. Thank you for joining us.
James E. Richmond: Your welcome. I enjoyed it. Anyone who has any questions about their child's education or Charles County Public Schools is welcome to call us at any time or send us an e-mail at komalley@ccboe.com.
washingtonpost.com:
That wraps up today's show. Thanks to everyone who joined the
discussion.
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