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Howard County Delays Redistricting Vote, Advances Two Concept IV Variants

The board paused to vet operational impacts before deciding between Concept IV‑B versus a version with limited middle‑school shifts.

Overview

  • The final decision is now set for Dec. 4, with a newly added public hearing and straw vote on Nov. 20.
  • Board members narrowed 11 options to Concept IV‑B and a second variant that adds middle‑school reassignments to strengthen the Wilde Lake Middle feed.
  • Any redistricting of Centennial Lane Elementary is paused due to concerns about ripple effects and uncertain housing yield from nearby redevelopment.
  • The leading elementary option would move about 122 Bryant Woods students to Swansfield or Running Brook, reducing Bryant Woods’ projected utilization from roughly 124% to about 82% next year.
  • Directors requested more analysis on feeder patterns, potential loss of walkers, and transportation expenses, including a plan that would require an additional bus estimated at about $100,000.