JUST AS EDUCATION is rising to the top of local, state and federal political agendas, some of Maryland's school board nominating conventions are finding themselves marginalized. One of the most notable is in Baltimore County. Last week, the county convention announced it is suspending operations this year, though one-third of the seats on the school board are up for appointment.
Half of Maryland's counties have voter-elected school boards. In other jurisdictions, the governor appoints the members after receiving a recommendation from civic and religious organizations who interview candidates.
The Baltimore County convention says it is bowing to reality. In the past two years, Gov. Parris N. Glendening ignored its nominees, as is his right. Discouraged, citizens and groups have lost interest. Four years ago, the convention included 140 groups. This year, only 38 have registered.