Arnold Elementary School PTA

The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) serves as a link between local school communities and the Anne Arundel Board of Education. It is a venue for voicing parent concerns and, hopefully, effecting change where needed.

Last school year, the Arnold Elementary CAC focused its attention on the condition of the school’s facilities. We’ve all been aware of problems with moisture and air quality in the basement level, but it all came to a head when several classrooms were flooded in early 2009. While investigating these incidents and the fallout from them, the CAC discovered that while Arnold Elementary’s facilities have one of the lowest ratings in the county and the school was not to be considered for renovation until 2012. CAC members prepared a detailed report on problems associated with the facilities’ condition. They testified in front of County Council and met with Board of Education, State of Maryland, and County Council representatives. Most officials that were contacted expressed support for the school. Unfortunately, in its 2010 budget decision, County Council put on hold all school renovation plans, which pushed Arnold Elementary even farther down on the waiting list. However, the CAC managed to raise awareness about the school’s needs and plans to continue to push for earlier consideration once renovation funds become available.

Perhaps as a result of these efforts, this summer AACPS moved quickly to remediate thoroughly the two kindergarten classrooms most affected by the floods. In addition, all air units (two of which had been the cause of flooding) were inspected, cleaned, and repaired where necessary. With the goal of improving air quality in the basement level, the AACPS Operations Department converted an existing exhaust fan in the basement hallway to vent to the outside rather than to the kitchen area. Asbestos and mold testing was performed in August. The Environmental Officer has also assured us that he will perform radon testing this winter (cold weather being optimal for accurate test results).

In addition to facilities issues, the CAC is open to discussing any other issues of concern to parents. CAC representatives attend County CAC meetings monthly and report anything that might require wider attention. Community members can also attend Board of Education hearings, held bi-monthly, and voice their concerns there as well.

Notes from Arnold’s CAC Meeting on October 27, 2009.

If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact Dina Vollen at dina@indexing.com.