The Howard County Board of Education has finalized its latest redistricting plan after nearly 10 months of review. This decision will affect more than 140 elementary and middle school students starting next school year.
The redistricting initiative, also known as the boundary review, began in February to address overcrowding at Bryant Woods and Centennial Lane elementary schools. While the plan reduces the student population at Bryant Woods, adjustments for Centennial Lane will be postponed to a future process.
Student Reassignment Details
A total of 146 students from six different schools will experience school changes. Specifically, 122 students from Bryant Woods will be reassigned to Longfellow, Running Brook, and Swansfield elementary schools. Additionally, 24 middle school students will move from Harper’s Choice to Wilde Lake Middle School.
The Board voted on several motions to finalize the plan during its meeting on Thursday. This followed a preliminary straw vote two weeks earlier that advanced the proposed boundary modifications.
Concerns and Decisions
Board members and community stakeholders expressed worries about increased transportation costs. Another concern was the potential intensification of poverty concentration in certain schools due to the new boundaries.
Despite these concerns, the Board did not approve any exemptions for students in this redistricting round. Their focus remains on managing facilities’ capacity efficiently and balancing enrollment across the district.
The approved redistricting plan reflects Howard County’s ongoing efforts to provide equitable educational spaces. By redistributing students strategically, the Board aims to improve learning conditions and manage overcrowding in affected schools.
Families impacted by the changes will be notified prior to implementation, ensuring a smooth transition during the upcoming academic year. The Board continues to monitor enrollment trends and remains open to adjustments in future boundary reviews.
Read more at: www.cbsnews.com-
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