HAGERSTOWN – Calls are growing for the resignation or removal of Michael Guessford from the Washington County Board of Education following a social media post that many residents and civil rights groups say disrespected the local Muslim community.
On Oct. 9, Guessford, the board’s vice president, commented, “We need to protest,” in a Facebook post announcing an open house at the Islamic Society of Western Maryland. The mosque’s event was intended to offer local residents a tour, refreshments and a chance to learn about Islam. Critics say Guessford’s comment incited opposition against a peaceful, educational gathering.
The comment triggered swift backlash. Local faith leaders, education advocates and civil rights organizations have called on Guessford to apologize or resign. An online petition, launched Oct. 10 by resident Carlos Mellott, has drawn hundreds of signatures demanding Guessford step down. The petition says his actions undermine the values of inclusion and tolerance in public schools.
Guessford has not issued a public apology but reportedly contacted mosque leaders to request a private meeting. The board has not made a formal statement. Board President April Zentmeyer acknowledged in an email to at least one concerned resident that the matter is being taken seriously.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations, a civil rights group based in Maryland, condemned Guessford’s post as reckless and dangerous. “A call to protest a mosque’s open house is unacceptable for anyone, let alone an elected official overseeing public education,” the group’s statement read.
Faith leaders from the Hagerstown Area Religious Council invited Guessford to meet with them and learn about the local Muslim community. “We hope he takes this opportunity to grow and lead with greater understanding,” said HARC president Mark Perman.
The controversy is the latest in a string of public incidents involving Guessford. In 2016, a county ethics panel found he had violated school board ethics rules by failing to disclose business ties and voting on contracts that benefited his catering company. He was formally censured and ordered to repay money he had improperly received. The repayment was delayed nearly a year.
In January, Guessford sent an email to the board and superintendent directing the school system to eliminate its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs without public discussion. Critics said the move likely violated Maryland’s Open Meetings Act and bypassed proper board procedures.
Some community members see a pattern. “This isn’t just about one Facebook post,” said one local parent who signed the petition. “It’s about a long history of behavior that disrespects students and families who aren’t like him.”
State law allows the Maryland State Board of Education to remove local board members for misconduct, neglect of duty or immorality. The process requires a formal petition, a hearing and board review. In 2017, a former Washington County board member was removed by the state for repeated public misconduct.
As of now, Guessford remains in office. His term expires in 2026.
