Arrow Child and Family Ministries’ Associate Vice President Sue McLendon, a dedicated leader with the organization, has been appointed to Maryland’s Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board.
McLendon joins the board to fill the remainder of an unexpired term that officially began July 1, 2023. Upon completing this initial period, she will be eligible to serve a full three-year term.
Established in 1971, the board works in close collaboration with the Maryland State Department of Education. Its mission is to promote quality education by establishing rigorous standards, ensuring that educational professionals possess the essential knowledge and skills needed to prepare all Maryland students for long-term success.
The appointment expands Arrow’s reach, placing the organization at the table for vital statewide educational policy discussions.
McLendon noted that she passionately believes nonpublic schoolteachers must be represented in all discussions that affect their field.
“As a representative of nonpublic schools, I am honored to be part of the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board,” McLendon said. “Nonpublic schools do not serve a high percentage of students across Maryland, but I know each and every student we work with through the Arrow Center for Education Schools deserves teachers who are fully equipped and prepared for a stellar education. Representing that voice and perspective is exciting.”
For Arrow, a nonprofit widely recognized for its work in child welfare and special education, this appointment marks a significant milestone in expanding its footprint.
“This brings Arrow to a new arena of conversations,” McLendon said. “While we have always been present in special education and child welfare opportunities, our presence in the larger educational setting is not well established.”
Looking ahead, McLendon aims to address systemic challenges facing schools across the state.
“I want to contribute to ideas that help solve our state’s teacher shortage, as well as conversations about how teachers can be meaningfully prepared for their work in the classroom,” McLendon said.
Reflecting on her own classroom experience, she emphasized the critical role of support systems for educators.
“My time as a teacher is one of the most joyful parts of my career and the skills I needed to build for my students were developed on the job and through mentorship,” McLendon said. “However, not all teachers are in an environment where they can get so many benefits. This is why programs that equip our teachers must continue to strive for relevance and quality skill building in today’s challenging educational climate.”
While eager to advocate for teachers and students, McLendon is approaching her initial months on the board with a focus on deep collaboration and understanding the regulatory landscape.
You can learn more about the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board here.