By Rocheford T. Gardiner September 9, 2025
HARPER, MARYLAND COUNTY – Calm has returned to the streets of Harper City after a day of protests by students from the Harper Demonstration High School successfully pressured the County Administration into reversing a decision that had stalled crucial school renovations. The protest ended with the administration capitulating, allowing the much-needed repairs to resume.
Stalled Renovations Spark Anger
The protest erupted because approximately 700 students have been unable to start the 2025/26 academic year, which is now in its second week. Their school building remains unusable after County Superintendent Henry Cole halted renovation work on August 20, 2025.
The repairs, which included major roof work, were being carried out by the Dorbor Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Marylander Dorbor Bedell. Superintendent Cole stopped the project, claiming the foundation had not followed “due process” with the local administration. By the time the work was halted, a significant portion of the school’s roof had already been removed, leaving the building exposed and unsafe for classes. This left students with no school to attend, which became their primary grievance.
Protest Prompts U-Turn
On Tuesday, angry students swarmed the county’s Administration Building, which houses both the Superintendent’s office and the 4th Judicial Circuit Court. While the demonstration remained largely peaceful, the students’ presence caused minor disruptions at three other government schools.
In a swift turnaround, the County Administration reversed its decision. Sources within the Dorbor Foundation confirmed that Superintendent Cole placed a phone call to Dorbor Bedell, and the foundation is now set to resume work as early as Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
Political Undercurrents
Many residents and students believe the conflict has political undertones. Some students interviewed by Cape Palmas News TV openly accused District Representative P. Mike Jurry of influencing the Superintendent’s decision.
This sentiment is echoed on the streets, with two competing theories emerging. Supporters of Representative Jurry allege that Mr. Bedell is using his philanthropy to build a platform to challenge Jurry for his seat in the 2029 general elections. Conversely, Bedell’s supporters argue that Jurry is actively working with the Superintendent to undermine any popular goodwill Mr. Bedell generates.
Whatever the case, Tuesday’s events have served as a significant public relations boost for Bedell. Protesting students were heard singing his praises and even promising to vote for him should he decide to run for the District Representative office.
As of press time, Superintendent Cole had not provided an official response. We will keep you updated on any new developments.
