Guiding Principles for Student Success

FHForward on the Issues

Great schools are built on trust and collaboration. Just as we rely on doctors, tutors, and coaches to guide growing bodies or developing talents, families rely on educators to sharpen minds. Similarly, educators partner with caregivers to best address learners’ needs, and students themselves need freedom to explore and practice. Taxpayers, too, trust in transparency and fiscal responsibility.

When concerns or conflicts arise, established processes ensure respectful dialogue, center student growth, and foster strong learning environments. Honoring these processes in good faith protects professional expertise, family partnership, and community investment alike by reducing disruption and protecting student learning.

Every stakeholder sees a return on their investment when we graduate students prepared for their future. Parents and teachers celebrate successes, taxpayers see increased property values, and local businesses enjoy steady patronage from families drawn to quality schools.

When it comes to the issues, Francis Howell Forward believes that student success is strongest when we let teachers teach, learners learn, and parents parent.

Fiscal Responsibility

It is fiscally irresponsible to drastically reduce revenue when no plan exists to replace lost funds. Francis Howell deserves a board that champions public schools and ensures students have the materials, curriculum options, and technology to make the most of the learning opportunities.

A graph from an FHSD leader presentation show the potential loss of approximately $20million in revenue for the district if the tax credit proposed on the April 2026 ballot is approved.

Overreach

The role of the school board director is one of the only elected offices where candidates do not declare party affiliation on the ballot. Local school boards should function independently of any political party and prioritize the needs of our students, teachers, and families.

A speaker stands in front of a school board, delivering comments.

Safe Schools

Learning thrives in safe spaces where students experience safety, belonging, and respect. Francis Howell Forward supports efforts to alleviate racism, gender bias, and religious/cultural discrimination in our schools.

A student holds a sign above his head: Forward, not backward, for FHSD

Books and Education Materials

Francis Howell Forward supports the selection of grade-appropriate educational materials by licensed, qualified district staff. We also support a parent’s right to confer with staff to seek alternatives to meet individual needs.

Education Associations (FHEA and FHESPA)

Education associations negotiate on behalf of teachers and staff for fair pay, quality work conditions, and benefits. This includes dedicated planning time, free from additional duties, ensuring time for parent communication, lesson preparation, and feedback for students.

A smiling teacher sits in front of several students on a carpet in the classroom