Angela R. Jones
Running for school board in Prince George's County District 8
How old will you be on Election Day (Nov. 5)?
Candidate did not respond to this question.
Are you currently employed? If so, where, and what is your job title?
Legislative director, Maryland General Assembly in the House of the Senate.
What is the highest level of education that you completed, and where did you get that degree?
Law degree, Concord Law School at Purdue University.
Why are you running for the school board?
The reason I am running for the Prince George’s County School Board is to ensure that "every" child in our community has access to a high-quality education and the opportunities they deserve. With over 30 years of professional experience, i.e., current legislative director, former educator, (substitute teacher), former law enforcement and former social service representative, and living in this county, I have a deep understanding of our community’s needs and aspirations. As a mother of three and a doting grandmother, I have seen firsthand the challenges and triumphs that our students face. My children attended local schools, and I have been actively involved in their education, from volunteering in classrooms to participating in parent-teacher association meetings. These experiences have given me a unique perspective on the importance of parental involvement and the need for strong support systems within our schools. As a passionate advocate for women’s equality, education and gun control in schools, I believe I can bring a unique perspective and drive meaningful changes. My background as a public servant and legislative director has equipped me with the skills to navigate complex policy issues, build consensus, and lead with integrity. For example, during my tenure in the Senate, I successfully advocated for legislation that increased funding for educational programs and improved safety measures in schools. I am committed to addressing disparities in education, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and introducing innovative solutions that benefit our students and teachers. By running for the school board, I aim to be a trusted representative for District 8, working tirelessly to create a better future for our children.
What makes you a good candidate for the board?
With over 30 years of residency in Prince George’s County, I have a deep understanding of our community’s needs and aspirations. As a mother of three and a grandmother, I have firsthand experience with the local school system. My active involvement in my children’s education, from volunteering in classrooms to participating in parent-teacher association meetings, gives me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within our schools.
I am a passionate advocate for women’s equality, education and gun control in schools. My dedication to these issues demonstrates my commitment to creating a safe and equitable learning environment for all students. My background as a former public servant and currently legislative director equips me with the skills to navigate complex policy issues, build consensus and lead with integrity. I am committed to addressing disparities in education and ensuring fiscal responsibility. My focus on equal protection under the 14th Amendment drives my efforts to ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to quality education and opportunities. I believe in implementing innovative programs and policies, such as integrating new technologies, enhancing extracurricular activities and improving mental health resources. My combination of personal experience, professional expertise and passionate advocacy makes me a standout candidate for the school board. I am dedicated to being a trusted representative for District 8, working tirelessly to create a better future for our children. Together, we can build a school system that supports and empowers every student to reach their full potential.
What is the most important issue facing your school board and what would you do about it if elected?
One of the most pressing issues facing our school board is ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students. This encompasses addressing disparities in resources, facilities and opportunities across different schools within our district.
If elected, I would prioritize the following actions:
1. Resource allocation: Advocate for a more equitable distribution of funds and resources to ensure that all schools, regardless of their location, have access to the necessary tools and facilities. This includes modernizing classrooms, providing up-to-date technology and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality learning materials.
2. Community engagement: Foster stronger partnerships between schools, parents and the community. By building consensus and earning trust, we can create a supportive environment where everyone’s voice is heard. This includes regular town hall meetings, surveys and feedback sessions to understand and address the unique needs of each school.
3. Teacher support and development: Invest in professional development for teachers to ensure they have the skills and resources needed to provide high-quality education. This includes ongoing training, mentorship programs and competitive salaries to attract and retain the best educators.
4. Safety and well-being: Implement comprehensive safety measures to ensure that our schools are safe environments for learning. This includes advocating for stricter gun control measures in schools and providing mental health resources to support students’ well-being.
By focusing on these areas, we can work toward a more equitable and high-quality education system for all students in Prince George’s County District 8.
Please name a public leader you admire and explain why.
I admire several public leaders who have significantly influenced my political career. These include Sen. C. Anthony Muse, Sen. Joanne C. Benson, County Councilmember Edward Burroughs III, Del. Veronica Turner, former Sen. Obie Patterson and former Sen. Gloria Lawlah. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication to public service, embodying the highest levels of integrity. Their guidance and support have been pivotal in my journey, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to my success.
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, passed by the General Assembly in 2021, is a 10-year plan that includes increased education funding to support early childhood education, increased teacher starting pay, college/career-readiness standards for high school graduates, and expanded services to multilingual and impoverished families, among other goals. Please tell us your views on the Blueprint and how it will affect your school district.
In our school districts, the Blueprint will have a profound impact:
1. Early childhood education: By expanding access to pre-kindergarten programs, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their background, start their educational journey on a strong footing. This early investment is crucial for long-term academic success.
2. Teacher quality and diversity: The Blueprint’s emphasis on recruiting and retaining high-quality, diverse educators will help address the disparities in educational outcomes. Providing competitive salaries and professional development opportunities will attract the best talent to our schools.
3. College and career readiness: By creating clear pathways for students to transition from high school to college or the workforce, we can better prepare them for future success. This includes expanding access to Advanced Placement courses, vocational training, and internships.
4. Equitable resources: The Blueprint aims to allocate more resources to schools with higher needs. This will help bridge the gap between underfunded schools and their more affluent counterparts, ensuring that every student has access to the tools and support they need to succeed.
5. Governance and accountability: Strengthening oversight and accountability measures will ensure that the funds and resources are used effectively and transparently, fostering trust within the community.
Overall, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future represents a comprehensive approach to creating a more equitable and high-quality education system for all students in our districts.
Some school districts nationwide are placing new limits on the use of cellphones in middle and high schools. What do you think should be the policy on student use of cellphones in your district, and why do you support that policy?
In our district, I propose a balanced cellphone policy that allows limited use during non-instructional times, such as lunch and between classes, while prohibiting use during lessons. This approach respects students' need for connectivity and emergency contact while minimizing distractions during instructional time. By implementing this policy, we can foster a focused learning environment, reduce cyberbullying, and encourage face-to-face interactions. Additionally, incorporating digital literacy programs can educate students on responsible cellphone use, enhancing their understanding of when and how to use technology appropriately. This balanced policy supports educational goals and aligns with our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and productive school environment.
Are you satisfied with your school district's efforts to ensure the safety of its students? What, if anything, should be done to improve school safety in your district?
While our school district has made commendable strides in enhancing school safety, such as implementing clear backpacks and advanced security technology, there is always room for improvement. To further ensure student safety, I advocate for increased mental health resources, including more counselors and support staff, to address students' emotional well-being. Additionally, expanding the use of anonymous reporting tools like the Safe Schools Maryland tip line¹ can help prevent potential threats. Strengthening partnerships with local law enforcement and community organizations will also enhance our ability to respond to emergencies effectively. By focusing on these areas, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all students.
Do you think there are circumstances when books should be removed from school libraries? If so, what kind of books should be removed, and who should make those decisions?
No.
Some school districts enact policies allowing transgender and gender nonconforming students to use their preferred pronouns while at the same time not informing those students' parents about that decision. What is your opinion of such policies?
As a lawyer, I understand the delicate balance between respecting students’ rights and ensuring parental involvement. Policies that allow transgender and gender nonconforming students to use their preferred pronouns without informing parents can be crucial for the students’ safety and mental well-being, especially if they fear negative repercussions at home. However, these policies must be implemented with sensitivity and care. Schools should provide robust support systems, including counseling and safe spaces, to help students navigate their identities. Additionally, fostering open communication and education about gender diversity within the school community can promote understanding and acceptance. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safe and inclusive environment for all students while respecting their privacy and individual needs. By prioritizing the well-being of students and ensuring they feel supported, we can help them thrive both academically and personally.
