Dawn Pulliam

Dawn Pulliam is a member of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education in Maryland, representing District 7. She assumed office on December 2, 2024. Her current term ends on December 4, 2028.

Pulliam ran for election to the Anne Arundel County Board of Education to represent District 7 in Maryland. She won in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Pulliam completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Dawn Pulliam was born in Cheverly, Maryland. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland in 1997 and a graduate degree from the University of Maryland in 2007. Her career experience includes working as a program manager and working in academia, budget management, business development, and government industry relations. She has been affiliated with Anne Arundel County Farm Bureau, Bowie Elks Lodge #2309, and American Legion Post #131.^[1]

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, District 7

Dawn Pulliam defeated Jeremy York and Maisie Howard in the general election for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, District 7 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Dawn Pulliam (Nonpartisan)	56.8	23,158
	Jeremy York (Nonpartisan)	42.3	17,213
	Maisie Howard (Nonpartisan) (Write-in)	0.4	169
	Other/Write-in votes	0.5	197

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 40,737
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Nonpartisan primary election

The primary election was canceled. Dawn Pulliam and Jeremy York advanced from the primary for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, District 7.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Pulliam in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Dawn Pulliam completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Pulliam's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am single and have cousins, nephews, and nieces who live in Anne Arundel County and attend AACPS. I graduated from the Prince George’s County Public School System and earned my bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Maryland.

I spent 23 years at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy, creating and leading programs that prepared students for future careers in government and industry. I then led the establishment of the Corporate Lockheed Martin Sustainment Institute (LMSI). Additionally, I served as the Lead for the Talent and Workforce Initiative for the Corporate Sustainment Council, where I developed the Sustainment Mid-Career Leadership Program, Corporate Recognition Program, career paths, and external university research partnerships.

Over the past year, I served as the Senior Program Manager, leading the development and execution of the congressionally mandated Defense Civilian Training Corps program for the Department of Defense. This program aims to create a ready workforce for the DoD civilian pipeline through a robust curriculum, hands-on learning experiences, and summer team projects that address real-world challenges in collaboration with military installations.

I am currently planning to develop a Technology Innovation Launch Pad Factory for youth in Anne Arundel County. I am also a Southern High Integrated Community Steering Team (ICST) member and mentor the Southern FFA leadership team.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

AACPS must prioritize academic excellence, ensuring that the over 60% of students not at grade level in science and math receive the resources needed to get back on track. This can be achieved through traditional learning model that focuses on reading, writing, arithmetic, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Students can then reach their educational goals and access new opportunities. Teachers require modernized classrooms and resources to create productive and safe learning environments. Additionally, parents, caregivers, and key stakeholders must be actively engaged throughout each student’s educational journey.
To ensure educators can perform effectively, we must cultivate a healthy, safe, and distraction-free learning environment. This atmosphere should promote student engagement and academic success, free from violence, weapons, bullying, drugs, and alcohol. Reducing distractions and disciplinary issues is essential for fostering success through prevention programs and increased parental and community engagement. Enforcing policies, laws, and codes of conduct is vital, along with providing rehabilitation, mentorship, and compassion for students. Restricting cell phone use during school hours is one strategy we must maintain, while also exploring new approaches to enhance the learning environment.
Parents and caregivers are essential stakeholders in their children's health, well-being, and education. Currently, their ability to engage in their students' education faces unnecessary obstacles and skepticism. I will advocate for their right to know, understand, and actively participate in educational decisions. They should always be the first informed about health, safety, and learning matters involving their children. This is includes having full knowledge of changes in their children's gender identity. When educational materials conflict with their values and beliefs, parents should have the right to request alternative materials, ensuring their students are not excluded from essential skills while respecting their personal rights.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

AACPS must restore academic excellence, addressing the fact that two-thirds of students lack proficiency in reading and math. I propose returning to a traditional education model prioritizing reading, writing, arithmetic, problem-solving, and critical thinking over technology. Teachers need the right tools and learning environment; parents/caregivers must be key stakeholders

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Key characteristics for an elected official are a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting individual rights, and fostering accountability in government. Integrity is paramount; it builds trust with constituents and demonstrates a dedication to ethical leadership. An elected official should value a balanced approach, promoting fiscal responsibility without sacrificing essential public services and supporting effective governance that listens to the community's needs while remaining open to dialogue and compromise on divisive issues.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

An elected school board member is the ultimate advocate for all students, serving as a vital liaison between the school district and the community. They foster transparency, open communication, and effective constituent services, addressing concerns with compassion and ensuring that every voice is heard and each student’s educational needs are met.

Board members establish the system's budget, adopt policies, approve curricula, and develop strategic goals. They hire and manage the Superintendent, oversee all employment negotiations, and make redistricting decisions.

Additionally, they manage the Office of Internal Audit, holding the district accountable by monitoring performance, evaluating student achievement, and ensuring compliance with academic regulations and laws. This dual role of communication and oversight helps create a responsive and effective educational environment for all students.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Throughout my childhood and even now, I’ve aspired to be Wonder Woman. As a potential member of the Board of Education for Anne Arundel County, she represents the strength, compassion, and justice I aim to embody in my role. Just as Wonder Woman fights for those who can’t fight for themselves, I want to advocate for all students, ensuring they have equal access to quality education.

Wonder Woman inspires and unites others, and I strive to engage parents, teachers, and the community in meaningful conversations about our schools. Collaboration is essential for overcoming challenges, and I want to cultivate that spirit in our educational system.

Her commitment to empowerment is especially important to me. I want every student’s voice to be heard, particularly those who may feel overlooked. All students deserve a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive.

By channeling Wonder Woman's determination and dedication to justice, I aim to make informed decisions that prioritize student well-being and academic success. Ultimately, my goal is to be a strong advocate for our students and families, promoting fairness and inspiring others to join the cause for a better future in education.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

In addition to what I identified in the prior questions, they work with their fellow members to allocate resources wisely, prioritize academic achievements, support educators with solid infrastructure, and ensure safety in all facilities and at all school events. I will work hard to stay within our budget by collaborating with the County Executive and County Council to make intelligent decisions, avoiding the approach of simply throwing money at problems [ In short, we are the advocates and accountants of our students and must develop viable, practical, and feasible solutions to meet our challenges. We are accountable for over 85,000 students and more than 17,000 workers and manage over 130 facilities.

Who are your constituents?

District 7 encompasses residents from Crofton to the southern Anne Arundel County line. This area is rich with farmers, local markets, and small businesses, all set against stunning landscapes. Crofton itself has a charming small-town feel, conveniently located near shopping and a variety of local enterprises.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

Supporting the diverse needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community in District 7 requires a comprehensive approach.

Culturally Responsive Education

First, we must implement a curriculum that reflects diverse cultures and perspectives, ensuring all students see themselves represented. Professional development for educators on culturally responsive teaching will help them understand and address their students' varied backgrounds.

We must also consider:
Inclusive Support Services—Expanding access to mental health resources for students and staff is essential, as are specialized programs tailored for students with diverse learning needs, including those in special education and English language learning and those demonstrating uniquely high skill levels.

Engaging Families and Communities - Establishing clear communication channels with families, including translations and accessible resources, will encourage engagement. Collaborating with local organizations and businesses can provide mentorship and extracurricular opportunities that resonate with our community’s diversity.

Flexible Learning Environments - Utilizing personalized learning strategies and flexible environments will cater to various learning styles, ensuring every student can thrive. Additionally, leveraging technology will enhance accessibility and learning opportunities.

Feedback and Adaptation - Regular feedback from students, parents, and staff through surveys and forums will help identify needs and areas for improvement. This input will guide the continuous adaptation of programs and policies, ensuring they remain responsive to our community.

We can create an inclusive and supportive environment that meets our district's diverse needs and fosters a culture of respect, engagement, and excellence for all.

How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?

To strengthen connections with the community, I will actively participate in local gatherings, such as neighborhood and cultural events, to listen to families and gather their input. I will advocate for strengthening relationships with local businesses, including the chamber of commerce and small business associations, to create internship and mentorship opportunities while encouraging their involvement in school events. I will actively listen to feedback from Parent-Teacher Associations, which are essential for improving communication and involving parents in decision-making. Additionally, I will encourage collaboration with nonprofits, nearby colleges, and government civic groups to enhance our community and support student success.

In what areas would you like to expand curriculum? For example, do you see a need for advanced technical training or apprenticeships? What sort of innovative programming would you advance if given the opportunity?

To provide our students with meaningful opportunities, we must expand existing programs and launch new, exciting initiatives. A prime example is our Future Farmers of America program at Southern High School. Supported by community donations of barns, greenhouses, and land, these aspiring agro-scientists consistently excel in local, regional, and national competitions, often against districts with more advanced programs. It’s time to give them the recognition they deserve and secure a future vital to our community.

I propose expanding the CASE program into a magnet program. Agriculture contributes over 25% of our area’s GDP, yet we face a decline in farmers and available land. Agriculture is more than just tilling soil; it encompasses diverse careers that require Bachelor of Science degrees and technical skills, as well as a passion for feeding and supporting our communities.

Enhancing agricultural education can bridge educational disparities in rural areas, strengthen the relationship between the public and food producers, and promote a sustainable agricultural system. This education provides students with a holistic view of food production, food security, nutrition, and the environment. As modern agriculture becomes increasingly technology-driven, equipping students with the necessary skills is essential.

Additionally, we should consider incorporating career paths like AI and computer science while expanding STEM and IB programs to inspire diverse student careers. We need to rethink career training by expanding internship partnerships and enhancing specialized certifications beyond the walls of CAT North and South.

What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?

Safety must be a priority from when the student is waiting at the bus stop to when they return home. To enhance this, we need policies for improved cybersecurity, updated transportation protocols, vape detectors, and stronger law enforcement partnerships. We should also evaluate School Resource Officers (SROs), address cell phone use in schools, and continually upgrade security measures when needed.

How might you support the mental health needs of students/faculty/staff?

AACPS should enhance mental health resources for students and staff, which are crucial for well-being and performance. While schools currently have psychologists, social workers, and crisis counselors who address emergencies, additional support is needed. I recommend adding behavioral interventionists and expanding mental health counseling services to meet these needs better.

What existing district policies would you like to change, or what new policies would you like to implement?

I would like to buckle down on smoking and vaping in the schools. It is unacceptable in today's modern age that we are not able to stop this addictive and gateway behavior in our schools.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Parents and Community Members, County Councilwoman Shannon Leadbetter, County Councilman Nathan Volke, Delegate Seth Howard, Delegate Stuart Schmidt, Delegate Brian Chisholm, and former State Senators Ed Reilly and Janet Greenip.

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

An ideal learning environment prioritizes academic excellence, minimizes distractions, and actively involves parents. In such a classroom, teachers can nurture student success through active facilitation, leading to improved learning outcomes and empowered families—ultimately creating a brighter future for all students.

Smaller student-to-teacher ratios would allow educators more time for planning, grading, and providing one-on-one support for students facing challenges. Every student in need would receive the assistance they require.

Additionally, students would benefit from more physical activities and meal times without sacrificing instructional hours, ensuring they are healthier and less stressed. Modernized facilities would better meet educational needs, and transportation services would not be limited by underfunding, allowing all students access to before- and after-school programs. We cannot support students left behind over the past decade if they can't access the tutors and resources necessary to overcome their academic challenges.

How do you feel like your school district handled the coronavirus pandemic? What, if anything, would you do differently in the future?

Looking back, it's challenging to assess what could have been different without direct involvement in executive decisions. I opposed the state’s closure of all Maryland schools and believe we could have reopened sooner. The School Board was following guidance from the state Health Department, the State Education Board, and former district leadership.

Moving forward, we must better prepare for large-scale emergencies. We should publicly review with students, staff, and community experts what we did well and what we could improve. Unlike other districts, ours conducted a timely post-event analysis and shared it with stakeholders to enhance our response for the future. Ongoing exchanges of best practices with both public and private schools are essential.

Instead of closing schools, we could enhance safety measures and support for families, particularly those with fewer resources. Keeping schools open helps students maintain educational progress and provides critical social interaction, reducing feelings of isolation. Districts that quickly returned to in-person learning experienced better recovery outcomes, while our students faced significant learning loss.

Schools offer a structured routine that helps children feel secure and focused, especially during uncertain times. Many students rely on schools for meals and essential services. Keeping schools open also supports working parents by ensuring their children are in a safe environment.

However, reopening did not fully restore normal routines due to masking and distancing requirements. Despite local elected officials' reluctance to support making masks optional, the board secured relevant data and moved forward, possibly becoming the first district in the state to meet the criteria for lifting mask mandates. Overall, keeping schools open is crucial for both education and the well-being of students and families.

What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district?

Parents are the most critical stakeholders in a child's education and play a vital role in their well-being. The AACPS Board of Education must prioritize transparency and openness with parents regarding their children’s education. I am committed to breaking down any barriers that prevent parents from having full access to their children’s curriculum and overall well-being within the school environment.

Additionally, I will actively participate, strengthen current communication channels (social media, emails, etc.), and ensure an open-door policy.

What are your preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment?

Attracting and retaining top educators is crucial for our future. I will collaborate with both incoming and current educators to address their needs. Key initiatives I support include creating a safe, distraction-free environment, onboarding behavior interventionists, evaluating and enhancing benefits, and ensuring fair, competitive career ladder plans. Additionally, I aim to reduce the number of conditionally certified educators as the labor market improves.

The teacher shortage is a national concern, and it poses specific challenges for Anne Arundel County due to our area’s high cost of living.

Furthermore, I will work to enhance programs like Teachers Rising, a resident teacher initiative, and expand partnerships with higher education institutions to better prepare educators for their careers. We can learn from best practices in similarly sized districts to improve our approach.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental to building trust within our community. As a member of the Board of Education, I will advocate for improvements to the district's transparency and accessibility standards and procedures so there is relevant, timely reporting on what funds and resources are necessary and how state, local and federal funds and grants are allocated while ensuring they are properly spent.

I will support initiatives that promote open forums and community engagement, allowing parents and residents to ask questions and provide feedback on policy, financial, and enterprise-level operational decisions. It’s crucial that the Board operates with integrity and responds to the community's needs, ensuring that every dollar spent directly benefits our students and schools.

Ultimately, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability enhances trust and empowers our community to be active participants in shaping our students’ educational experiences and outcomes.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Anne Arundel County Public Schools, District 7

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 24, 2024

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 24, 2024

[1]

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Dawn Pulliam

Contents

Biography

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, District 7

Nonpartisan primary election

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

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