Board of School Commissioners appointed

BALTIMORE - Governor Martin O'Malley and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake have announced their appointments to the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners.

Robert Heck and David Stone have both been re-appointed, whereas, Marnell Cooper has for the first time been appointed to the board.

The newcomer Cooper is a graduate of Southwestern High School and the University of Baltimore. Cooper received his law degree from the University of Maryland, School of Law. He is currently the managing partner of Palmer Cooper, LLC. and was recently re-elected to a second term as president of the Maryland Fuel Fund.

“We are excited to announce the appointment of Marnell Cooper to the Board of School Commissioner,” added Mayor Rawlings-Blake. “Mr. Cooper is a product of Baltimore public schools; understand the needs of its students. Since 2007, our enrollment is up, and the dropout rate is down. We need experienced leaders like Mr. Cooper who can build on this success and create opportunities for our children to learn and excel. ”

Robert Heck was first appointed in 2007 and is now re-appointed to his second full term. he has served on board committees responsible for school facilities and special education.

David Stone is also re-appointed to his second full term. He is currently the director of operations for Special Education at the Kennedy-Krieger Institute with over 20 years of experience in special education as both a teacher and administrator.

“All of these members are strong Maryland leaders with a commitment to the State’s educational programs and our students’ success,” said Governor O’Malley. “These appointees bring a wealth of diverse experiences and expertise to the responsibilities of the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners. ”