Insult to humanity

The Board of Education meeting on May 5 was an insult to humanity. Ignorance, incompetence and bias were in full force, with too many subtle slights to count.

“Is somewhat concerning, I have to say.” and “Need to give elements proper care and maintenance so they stay in service.” Words by Anne Arundel County Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Alex Szachnowicz the only time expressing concern about a potential budget cut.

The item? Athletic stadiums.

“And you anticipate honoring those accommodations until the end of the school year?” Words by President Mellissa Ellis questioning Superintendent Arlotto why not all teachers can have four-day cohorts these final weeks of school.

Then we get to George Fox Middle School. Counsel misinterpreted parliamentary procedure when rejecting student member Drake Smith’s amendment, and board members were hypocritical saying two motions couldn’t be on the floor at once (Nov 4 and Jan 20: the board allowed two options to vote on).

Recent years have seen a pattern of board members from marginalized groups having their motions/amendments silenced before a vote or interrupted during discussion. That occurred multiple times during the renaming discussion.

Members Dana Schallheim and Joanna Bache Tobin stated that removing the name George Fox is an anti-racist act. Although essential, removing a racist from public sight does not fully encompass anti-racism

We can debate naming schools after people in general, but this community has the most racist incidents in the county, hence this was the time and place to name a school after Sarah V. Jones. It’s easy to vote 8-0 to form a committee to honor Ms. Jones, but in order to fully dismantle systemic racism and educate our communities not only now but 50 years from now, having names on buildings is one way to allow champions like Jones to keep teaching decades after her death as each generation asks, “Who is that?”

India Ochs, Annapolis

Editor’s Note: India Ochs is a former candidate for the school board.