FCPS racial equity committee schedules virtual election after low applicant turnout; members press for clearer goals

The Frederick County Public Schools Racial Equity Committee on May 13 set a tentative virtual meeting to hold elections for next year’s leadership after members confirmed there were only seven applicants for 11 open community seats.

Facilitators and members negotiated days and times before tentatively selecting Tuesday the 19th at 6 p.m. for the virtual election and asked staff to circulate details and a Google Meet link. Because the group lacked quorum on May 13, formal nominations and voting were deferred to the online session.

Members debated whether the committee should screen applicants before forwarding names to the Board of Education. Staff said they will forward applications to the board tomorrow as required but offered to open a subcommittee meeting to review candidates and make recommendations if members wished.

The low applicant count prompted a broader conversation about the committee’s mission and measurable goals. Several long‑running members said they want tangible outcomes they can point to in a year — for example, improving how scholarship opportunities are collected and shared with families — arguing that clearer goals may help recruit and retain volunteers. One member suggested using the committee’s "community corner" at future meetings to publicize resources and build grassroots awareness.

The meeting also included a public example: a member relayed a family’s allegation of discrimination on a school sports team and confirmed she had referred the family to FCPS’s complaint form to ensure the report is processed through official channels.

Because the committee did not have quorum, no formal votes were held on membership or leadership; staff will forward the applicant list to the Board of Education and will coordinate the virtual election and the executive committee follow‑up.