The Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, Dr. Robert Tomback, is making his yearly rounds, visiting high schools across the county. On Wednesday, November 28th he stopped at Bel Air High School in order to observe an average school day at Bel Air.
“This was not designed to be a walk in, say ‘hi’, turn around, and leave kind of visit,” Dr. Tomback said. “This was an opportunity for me to be in the classroom, in the hall and gain a deeper understanding of life in this school.”
“He just observed mostly,” said Sophomore Connor Small, who had a class observed on Wednesday. “He didn’t interfere at all.”
The itinerary of the Superintendent included stops in classrooms to observe teachers, including a sit in on a formal observation as done by an administrator. This was a chance for him and his colleagues to assess the process by which teachers at Bel Air are evaluated. He also held a meeting with a panel of teachers, which was an opportunity for teachers to ask question and voice concerns to Dr. Tomback. Another special meeting was held with a panel of a dozen selected students. This was a chance for these students to voice the opinions of the student body. This diverse group of students, who represented all grade levels, had the chance to comment on what they enjoyed about the school, as well as voice concerns.
“He seemed to genuinely care about our school and what we had to say,” said Junior Caroline Lozzi, who was a member of the student committee.
“Bel Air is a terrific school,” Dr. Tomback said after the panel’s meeting ended. “One can sense a clear academic environment, as well as a very supporting environment.”