Chronic absenteeism in public schools has surged post-pandemic, with nearly 40% of Black students missing 10% or more of the school year—far above the national average. Experts cite systemic barriers like housing insecurity, school disinvestment, and political attacks on education, calling for community-driven solutions that reengage students and support families.
Tag: legislation
Posted inMaryland Government
Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland unveils 2024 priorities
By Tashi McQueen, AFRO Political Writer, tmcqueen@afro.com Members of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland (LBCM) recently unveiled their 2024 legislative priorities, which include upholding recently passed juvenile justice laws, making resources more available for Maryland’s small businesses and ensuring prescription drugs are affordable for Black Marylanders. “Members of the legislature founded the Legislative Black […]
Posted in!Front Page Maryland New
Maryland General Assembly begins 2024 legislative session
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Political Writertmcqueen@afro.com The much anticipated 2024 Maryland General Assembly commenced on Jan. 10. Though the first day is largely ceremonial, hundreds of pieces of legislation have already been filed and assigned to committees. The 90-day session will feature policies aiming to reduce gun violence trauma, protect youth and hold them accountable for […]
Posted inPrince George's County News
Councilmember Ingrid Watson holds community forum on crimeÂ
By Reginald WilliamsSpecial to the AFRO More than 200 Prince George’s County citizens filled the Bowie State University’s Student Center Ballroom on Nov. 28 to partake in the community forum on rising youth crime. Also in attendance were Prince George’s County law enforcement and local and state representatives. Sponsored by Councilmember Ingrid Watson (D-District 4), […]
Posted inPrince George's County News
Prince George’s County Legislators collaborate to reduce youth crime
Reginald WilliamsSpecial to the AFRO More than 200 Prince George’s County citizens filled the Bowie State University’s Student Center Ballroom on Nov. 28 to partake in the community forum on rising youth crime. Also in attendance were Prince George’s County law enforcement and local and state representatives. Sponsored by Councilmember Ingrid Watson (D-Greenbelt-District 4), the […]
Posted inNational News
Federal spending bill directs states to reimburse food stamp fraud victims
By AFRO Staff States will be required to reimburse victims of food stamp hackers under provisions of the $1.7 trillion federal spending bill passed this week. The measure, added to the massive spending bill approved by Congress Dec. 22, will mean that state agencies will cover a fast-growing theft-of-benefits scheme. The AFRO reported on Baltimoreans […]