Fallston Representative Needed for Harford School Board

Patrick L. Hess resigned unexpectedly from the Harford County Board of Education in July, leaving the Fallston area with no representation on the school board. That’s one reason Governor Martin O’Malley should act quickly to appoint a new member to serve out Hess’ term, which expires in 2011.

Legislation passed earlier this year calls for the school board to eventually expand to nine members, with six elected and three appointed members. The law became effective on July 1, but the transition won’t be complete for some time. The first elections will be held in 2010 in Harford Council District A (Edgewood/Joppa), District B (Fallston) and District D (North Harford). Elections are scheduled for the remaining districts in 2014.

While each elected member will have to live within the council district they represent, there’s never been such a requirement for appointed members. So Hess’ replacement can come from anywhere in Harford County.

Getting a political appointment generally requires political connections, but anyone interested in a stint on the school board is welcome to try their luck with the Governor. Instructions for applicants are posted on the HCPS website as follows:

The Board of Education of Harford County seeks to fill an open seat previously held by Patrick L. Hess, Representative of the Fallston area. This appointment will be to complete Mr. Hess’ term ending June 30, 2011. Anyone interested in applying for an appointment to this seat should send a letter stating interest in becoming a Board member, along with a resume as well as any letters of recommendation to support the appointment to:

The Honorable Martin O’Malley
Office of the Governor
The State House
100 State Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401

The letter should also be copied to: Ms. Jeanne Hitchcock (Gov. Appt. Secretary) and Ms. Patricia A. Foerster (Education Policy Advisor) and Ms. Jennifer Barker (staff to Secretary Hitchcock). All can be reached at the address listed above.

Questions regarding the appointment process may be submitted to Ms. Patricia Foerster, Education Policy Advisor, Appointments Office. Ms. Foerster’s contact information is as follows:

Phone: (410) 974-2597;
Fax: (410) 974-2456;
Email: appointments@gov.state.md.us or pfoerster@gov.state.md.us