Promote Stronger and Safer Schools That Help Our Students Excel
Jolene is dedicated to ensuring that every child in Prince George’s County has access to high-quality, safe, and nurturing schools that foster academic and personal growth. With a proven history of advocating for education, her platform focuses on four key areas: implementing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, increasing school funding, enhancing school safety, and expanding early childhood education.
Championing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future
Jolene is a strong proponent of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a transformative plan designed to elevate Maryland’s public schools to national prominence. This initiative emphasizes early childhood education, career and college readiness, equitable funding, and educator support. As County Executive, Jolene will work to bring these reforms to life in Prince George’s County, ensuring students receive the tools and resources they need to thrive. By aligning county initiatives with the Blueprint’s objectives, she will help build an education system that prepares every student for a competitive global economy. Jolene also believes that the State must bear the financial responsibility for implementing the Blueprint rather than passing such significant mandated spending down to the county. This approach ensures that counties like Prince George’s are not overburdened and can focus on providing direct support to schools and students.
Increasing Investment in Public Schools
As Chair of the County Council, Jolene demonstrated her steadfast commitment to education by securing record school funding even during a $171 million budget shortfall—all without raising taxes. As County Executive, she will continue prioritizing investments in public schools to ensure all students benefit from modern facilities, skilled educators, and adequate resources. By championing equitable funding, Jolene will work to close disparities across schools, giving every child—no matter their zip code—the opportunity to succeed.
Promoting Safer Schools
Jolene understands that a secure and welcoming school environment is vital for effective learning. With personal connections to the school system as a former student, a mother of five public school graduates, and the daughter of a local teacher, she knows that safety involves more than physical security. It’s about fostering trust, preventing bullying, and supporting mental health. Jolene’s plan includes collaborating with school leaders, law enforcement, and community organizations to enhance safety protocols, implement anti-bullying initiatives, and expand mental health services for students and staff.
Expanding Early Childhood Education
Jolene believes that a strong educational foundation is crucial for lifelong success. She will advocate for expanding access to pre-K programs, boosting early literacy efforts, and supporting families with young children. These initiatives will ensure children enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed, setting the stage for their future academic achievements.
A Vision for Educational Excellence
Jolene Ivey’s vision for Prince George’s County schools is rooted in her lifelong commitment to education. By championing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, increasing school funding, ensuring school safety, and expanding early education opportunities, she aims to build a stronger, more equitable school system. Investing in our children means investing in the future of Prince George’s County. Together, we can create schools where every student can excel and thrive.