ELLICOTT CITY, Md. — School is now back in session with a small change that’s a big deal for some families in Howard County.
Tucked in a lengthy back-to-school email sent last week, the district informed parents that parent lunch visits would no longer be allowed at any school, citing safety.
Howard County schools eliminate parent lunch visits, citing safety concerns
The blurb reads:
“Parent lunch visits are no longer permitted at any HCPSS school. Limiting access during the school day ensures safe and secure school communities by removing unnecessary access to students and school buildings, reducing disruptions, supporting student routines, and minimizing non-essential traffic in student areas. Parents are encouraged to communicate with school staff to stay engaged in their child's learning and seek opportunities to volunteer in an official capacity at the school."
“I understand that security is extremely important, of course,” parent Irene Chrismer told WMAR-2 News’ Blair Sabol. “But I wish there was another way."
Chrismer had a standing lunch date every Friday with her kindergartner last school year. It was something they both looked forward to. A few days before first grade, however, she had to break the news it wasn't something he'd be able to look forward to this year.
“Since he's already a little nervous about starting school, I think that just made him a little even more anxious about it,” she said. “I would have to do a confidentiality training, and an abuse and neglect training, and I had to schedule the visits, so it felt very secure.”
“It’s a shame to have that piece go away,” another HCPSS parent, Danielle Pientka, said. “It’s just the little changes. Sometimes kids like that little change in their day. It's not quite the same routine."
Pientka would occasionally see her three children at lunch because she had more flexibility during the day and sometimes would be working late.
According to director of communications at HCPSS Brian Bassett, this change has been in the works since last year, as recommended by the district’s safety and security team. He says it is not tied to a specific incident.
"These changes are being implemented to ensure a consistent, secure, and predictable environment for students and staff. By clearly defining access expectations and limiting unnecessary movement within the building, the school is able to reinforce its commitment to student safety and well-being," Bassett said.
Board of Education chair Jennifer Mallo confirmed the board has received communication from "a small number of parents" hoping to change the new procedure.
"I believe that most parents will want and understand the need for security and supervision," Mallo said.
There are still volunteer opportunities that welcome parents into the schools and classrooms, and Bassett has encouraged families to get involved in those other ways. All visitors will have to complete the Visitor Management Screening and Check-In process at the school's front office.
Like Chrismer, who, in the meantime, has signed up for volunteer shifts at Veterans Elementary as requested by the PTA, but it's only expected for the first few weeks of the year.
Plus, volunteering, these parents say, is not quite the same.
“That's really time away from your family. It's not time with your kids,” Pientka said.
