The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Professional Standards & Teacher Education Board convened on October 10, 2024, to address pressing issues surrounding teacher shortages, particularly in special education. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for targeted strategies to support educators and improve retention rates.

A key focus was a comprehensive staffing report presented by Kelly and her team, which provided valuable insights into the current state of teacher staffing across Maryland. Board members praised the document for its clarity and usefulness, noting that it has been instrumental in facilitating important discussions, such as those held during a recent teacher summit at the University of Maryland.

Concerns were raised about the increasing number of underprepared teachers in special education, with Dr. Paulson emphasizing that this area requires immediate attention. He pointed out that Harford County has seen a 14% growth in its special education population over the past two years, while the overall student population remains stable. This trend, he argued, poses a significant challenge, as many special education teachers are not fully certified, which could jeopardize the quality of education for students with special needs.

The board discussed the necessity of enhancing support for conditional teachers—those who are not fully certified but are filling critical roles. Kelly suggested that the board could explore ways to improve the requirements for conditional licenses, ensuring that adequate support systems are in place at local education agencies (LEAs).

Another significant point raised was the need for better data collection regarding teacher retention and attrition. Board members expressed frustration over the lack of actionable insights from current exit surveys, which do not adequately capture the reasons teachers leave the profession. They called for a more robust approach to understanding both why teachers stay and why they leave, suggesting that this data could inform strategies to improve teacher support and retention.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of collaboration among board members, school leaders, and educators to address these challenges. The board plans to continue discussions on how to implement effective strategies that not only recruit but also retain qualified teachers, particularly in high-need areas like special education. As Maryland grapples with these issues, the board's commitment to enhancing teacher support and education quality remains a top priority.