Worcester Co. residents react to school violence allegations, as district prepares response

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – In Worcester County, community members say they’re concerned to hear that violence is spiking in public schools.

“I was surprised. But, when I saw it I was even more surprised – when they showed the clips – because that was violent,” said Mary Zentgraf. They’re learning that from somewhere. I don’t think they went to school and learned it. I think they learned it before they got there. There needs to be more consequences when it happens. Or, worse consequences, maybe.”

Wednesday morning, the Worcester County Board of Education (WCBOE) held a special closed meeting. The topic of discussion: how to respond to the harsh accusations that assault and bullying are running rampant in the county’s school district.

Among the complaints from law enforcement are alarming statistics, showing that since 2019, incidents of student violence have spiked 88%. Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli are placing blame on the school district.

Both Heiser and Crisafulli say despite making numerous recommendations on how to curb the violence, and the WCBOE directing the school district to adopt them, no progress has been made for months.

Meanwhile, those who are just learning about the concerning numbers say preventing violence at school, starts at home.

“In some instances, it’s poor parenting. Kids don’t have limits anymore. They seem to think they’re entitled, and it’s getting out of hand, I think,” said Susann Palamara. “I think it’s a balance. It’s hard for teachers to enforce stuff that isn’t enforced at home. So, they have a hard job.”

WCPS officials will be holding a press conference on Friday to provide their response to law enforcement’s complaints.