Page 2 - Executive Summary

Page 2 - Executive Summary - BC VII

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representation. We understand that Calvert County is doing an audit of the curriculum that will take three
years. Questions were asked about what is being audited, why three years, and the degree of community
involvement. Our own local histories are incomplete as well. A better understanding of current race
relations begins with our own local history and culture. We should encourage the work of our local
library, historical society, churches and county officials to complete the development of an updated local
history that can inform both the students, teachers and all residents. Local history and culture should be
included in all grades K-12.

Political Action and Support / Leadership
Equity in the schools needs to be a priority, not an option, both in terms of funding and instruction.
Superintendents of Schools were represented both on the panel and in the conversations, as were members
of the boards of education. County commissioners were not. All public officials for the schools and
counties should be actively included in conversations and follow up actions around dismantling racism.
The Kirwan Commission proposals to the legislature for adequate resources to ensure equitable education
should be supported. Make dismantling racism a focus or goal for all aspects of the county –
commissioners, business, government, health and medical care, schools, churches, media, NGO’s,
watermen, military, library, parks and recreation, etc. – you live here, you have a role to play.
Equity in Administrative Systems
Information was presented on state requirements for each local school system to develop an equity policy
– the Maryland Educational Equity Initiative. What is needed is to share those policies and to have
systems for accountability and follow up. Too often we set policies and begin initiatives and then they are
forgotten or not enforced.
Systems are needed to encourage better access and communication regarding equity concerns – that
teachers are relatable, open, and available to students of color, that there are mentors available, and
parents knowing where to go for help – perhaps an ombudsman.
There is a concern regarding the equitable distribution of resources. We need to analyze data showing
how resources are distributed across counties and within schools in terms of equitably responding to race.
Disproportionate disciplinary action is a concern and should be addressed. Too often persons of color,
especially males in our schools, are singled out for discipline in greater numbers than their percentage in
the population. Suggested responses included a need for restorative justice initiatives including
community conferencing programs and encouraging more people to serve as role models and mentors.

Further information is available through the following:

Check out our clearinghouse at www.dismantleracism.org for more readings and resources.

The “Building Bridges” booklet was distributed at the event on January 27. It includes a listing of contact
information for organizations involved in dismantling racism in Southern Maryland and is on the
clearinghouse. It is a great resource if you want to get involved.

Brought to you by Middleham and St. Peter’s Parish with The Big
Conversation Partnership for Dismantling Racism in Southern
Maryland including: All Saints Episcopal Church – Sunderland,
Calvert County Public Schools, Calvert Library, Calvert NAACP,
Community Mediation Centers of Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties,
Concerned Black Women of Calvert Co, Emmanuel SDA Church –
St. Leonard, Harriet Elizabeth Brown Scholars, Patuxent Quaker
Friends, St. Mary’s NAACP

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