September 28, 2023
To our community,
The community letter from Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) on August 24, 2023 referring to allegations of unprofessional behavior blindsided and devastated our Blair Crew Club. On September 28, 2023, MCPS sent a follow-up letter to Blair Crew parents stating that the investigation had concluded and that “beginning immediately, the Blair Crew Club may resume use of Montgomery County Public School facilities.” Although MCPS did not officially share these allegations with the board of Blair Crew, we conducted an internal investigation and are confident that our club maintains a safe, nurturing environment for our athletes. We are relieved that the MCPS-initiated investigation has been closed with no charges.
Blair Crew, Inc. is an independent 501c(3) organization run by a board of dedicated parent volunteers. Athletes, coaches and board members are members of US Rowing, the national governing body for the sport of rowing in the United States. Our coaches and volunteers are trained by and compliant with The U.S. Center for SafeSport. Blair Crew takes the safety and integrity of its students, coaches and volunteers extremely seriously. We require that all club members treat each other with respect and have zero tolerance for behavior contrary to those standards.
As the original letter reached all Montgomery Blair High School (MBHS) families, Blair Crew is now working to reestablish our damaged reputation in the community. Fortunately, we have been able to continue with a fall season due to our community’s generosity of time, spirit and resources. Although there has never been a fiduciary affiliation with MBHS, Blair Crew is made up of hardworking high school athletes proudly representing the Blair community. Our club, founded and created by students and parents 15 years ago, provides scholarships to students who may not have access to this sport. As a team we have participated in community service projects, worked together to raise money for new boats, and become a more competitive program.
Please help us turn our attention to our Blair Crew rowers, dedicated teens who are working together to compete in several important races this season. We encourage your support. Stop by the Bladensburg Waterfront Park during practice or watch us compete at a regatta. Come cheer on the team – what you will see will inspire you!
Blair Crew Board of Directors