Concerns over funding adequacy for Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) dominated the Board of Education Policy & Governance Committee Meeting on February 6, 2025. Board members expressed frustration over the historical and ongoing challenges related to public education financing, emphasizing the need for systemic change.

Dr. Thornton, a key speaker at the meeting, highlighted the long-standing issue of inadequate funding, tracing it back to decisions made in the late 1970s that insulated wealth from public sector investment. He pointed out that these decisions have disproportionately affected the county's diverse, low-income population, leading to a significant lack of resources for schools. "The average age of our schools is around 50 years," he noted, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

The discussion also touched on the impact of political dynamics on education funding. Dr. Thornton argued that the lack of voter engagement among parents and students has contributed to the ongoing neglect of school funding. "Students don’t vote, and many parents don’t either," he stated, suggesting that this political apathy allows for continued underfunding of essential services like education.

Board member Boosers Struthers echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the difficulty in communicating the complexities of funding adequacy to constituents. He pointed out that PGCPS has never achieved funding adequacy due to limitations in state and county funding sources, which restrict the board's ability to make necessary tax decisions. "We are digging out of a deficit," he said, referring to both school construction and operational funding challenges.

The meeting concluded with a call for a reevaluation of funding strategies to ensure that educational resources align with performance expectations. Dr. Thornton warned against budget cuts without adjusting performance standards, stating, "If you reduce funding, you must change the performance expectation." This sentiment reflects a broader concern that without adequate investment, the quality of education in Prince George's County will continue to suffer.

As the committee moves forward, the discussions from this meeting highlight the critical need for advocacy and reform in funding public education, ensuring that all students receive the resources they need to succeed.