MarylandTransforms-StrategicPlanGuidebook - Flipbook - Page 6
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MARYLAND TRANSFORMS - STRATEGIC PLAN
LETTER FROM THE
BOARD PRESIDENT
& STATE SUPERINTENDENT
Dear Marylanders:
The Maryland State Board of Education and Maryland State Department of Education are dedicated to raising the quality of
education for every student in Maryland. In order to ensure student success at scale, we must address the present and persistent
historical challenges across our state’s educational system.
Educational experiences in Maryland before the COVID-19 pandemic did not prepare all students for postsecondary success nor did
they meet our workforce needs. In 2019, 57% of Maryland’s 10th grade students and 59% of 3rd grade students were not proficient in
English language arts. These challenges also held true in math where 73% of students were not proficient in Algebra I. Furthermore,
75% of Black/African American boys were not proficient in math in 3rd grade, and 76% of students eligible for Free and Reduced Price
Meals were not proficient in English language arts in 3rd grade.
The pandemic has only exacerbated our challenges. As we continue to work to overcome these deficits, a return to normal is not
good enough. We must tackle the opportunity and achievement gaps that have persisted in our state. This will ensure that all
students, from advanced learners to those who are struggling and have been historically underserved, receive the necessary support
in order to reach their full potential.
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future was passed by the Maryland General Assembly in 2021 to transform public education in the state
into a world-class education system. The legislation presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to fulfill the promise of an excellent
and equitable education for all children in Maryland.